The Personal CFO

Guillaume Girard

The Personal CFO Podcast is where Canadian business owners learn how to make better decisions across the five types of wealth: financial, time, physical, social, and mental, so they can live well, build wealth, and leave a legacy they’re proud of.Hosted by Guillaume Girard, Financial Planner at Millen Wealth Advisors, this podcast dives into investing, retirement planning, taxes, insurance, and the decisions that matter most to business owners and incorporated professionals. Regulatory Disclosure & Disclaimer:Portfolio management services are provided by Portfolio Strategies Corporation, which is regulated by CIRO and a member of CIPF. Insurance solutions are offered through PPI Solutions. This podcast is for general information only and does not constitute personalized financial advice. Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/guillaume

  1. JAN 29

    Ep.032: Most Common Emotional Challenges of High-Income Earners With Money

    Summary of Episode In this episode of the Millennial Money Canada podcast, hosts Guillaume Girard and Sam Lichtman explore the emotional challenges clients face regarding money. They discuss the scarcity vs. abundance mindset, the disbelief in success, and the guilt associated with spending. The conversation emphasizes the importance of financial planning, communication in relationships, and the mental toll of managing finances. The hosts also highlight the need for mindfulness and gratitude in wealth creation, and the significance of recognizing one's limitations and seeking help when necessary. Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Emotional Challenges with Money 03:06 Scarcity and Abundance Paradox 09:49 Disbelief in Success and Its Impact 20:51 Reorienting to an Abundance Mindset 29:28 Guilt and Paralysis Around Spending 30:24 The True Cost of Not Planning Financially 31:00 Guilt and Anxiety Around Spending 35:38 Decision Fatigue and Disorganization 49:28 The Physical and Mental Toll of the GrindSubscribe to our NewsletterThe Weekly Brief: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/newsletter-guillaume Millen Wealth AdvisorsVisit our Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Follow Guillaume on Social MediaGuillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/ Follow Sam on Social MediaSam’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@millennialmoneycanada?lang=enSam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/ Keywords Emotional challenges, money mindset, financial planning, wealth management, scarcity mindset, abundance mindset, spending guilt, decision fatigue, financial organization, mental health

    1h 1m
  2. JAN 8

    Ep.031: Inside the Mind of a Gold Medalist with Ben Rutledge

    Summary In this conversation, Guillaume Girard interviews Ben Rutledge, a Canadian Olympic gold medalist and entrepreneur, exploring his journey from rowing to business. They discuss pivotal moments in Ben's life, the importance of mindset, coaching, and the balance between process and outcome. Ben shares insights on identity, resilience, and the lessons learned from both success and failure, emphasizing the significance of commitment and continuous learning in achieving goals. Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 The Journey Begins: From University to Rowing 13:43 Finding Identity and Purpose in Rowing 25:51 The Road to Olympic Aspirations 37:41 The Role of Environment and Coaching in Success 38:33 Mastering the Basics: The Key to Elite Performance 43:44 Handling Pressure: Transforming Anxiety into Excitement 49:32 Identity Beyond Competition: Life After the Gold Medal 53:44 The Process vs. Outcome: A Shift in Perspective 56:30 Rapid Fire Insights: Habits, Success, and Mindset 01:01:24 Building a Business: Lessons from Sports to Real Estate Designer Capital Visit their Website: https://designercapital.ca/ Millen Wealth Advisors Visit our Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/ Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Follow Guillaume on Social Media Guillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/ Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/ Follow Sam on Social Media Sam’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@millennialmoneycanada?lang=en Sam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/r Keywords Rowing, Olympic gold medal, mindset, coaching, personal development, resilience, identity, business, success, performance

    1h 6m
  3. 2025-11-28

    Ep.030: CRM 3 Is About to Change Everything: The Fee Shock No One Is Ready For

    Summary In this episode, Guillaume and Sam discuss the upcoming changes to fee disclosure under CRM3, which will significantly impact how Canadians view their investment fees. They explore the implications of these changes, the importance of transparency in building trust between clients and advisors, and the potential for clients to question the value they receive for the fees they pay. The conversation also touches on the role of segregated funds, the future of financial advisory services, and the importance of understanding investment philosophy for peace of mind. Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Introduction to CRM3 and Its Importance 02:01 Understanding Fee Disclosure Changes 07:05 The Impact of CRM3 on Investors 12:45 Transparency and Trust in Financial Advisory 16:21 Segregated Funds and Their Reporting 22:06 Evaluating Fees and Value in Financial Services 30:59 The Future of Financial Planning 34:00 Understanding Fees and Value in Investments 39:11 The Importance of Trust in Financial Advisory 50:39 Investment Philosophy and Client Peace of Mind Millen Wealth Advisors Visit our Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/ Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Follow Guillaume on Social Media Guillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/ Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/ Follow Sam on Social Media Sam’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@millennialmoneycanada?lang=en Sam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/ Keywords CRM3, fee disclosure, financial planning, investment fees, transparency, trust, financial advisors, segregated funds, client awareness, investment philosophy

    56 min
  4. 2025-11-06

    Ep.029: From Burnout to Balance: How Financial Literacy Can Help You Thrive

    Summary In this episode, Guillaume Girard interviews Dr. Christian Wigmore, founder of BudgetYourMD, about the financial challenges physicians face and the importance of financial literacy. They explore Dr. Wigmore's journey to becoming a physician, the pressures of medical school debt, and the impact of lifestyle inflation on financial decisions. The conversation emphasizes the need for better financial education for medical students and the role of BudgetYourMD in empowering future physicians to manage their finances effectively and avoid burnout.   Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 The Journey to Medicine 04:20 Exploring Financial Insights 08:10 The Role of a Family Doctor 12:27 Deciding on a Medical Specialty 14:08 Financial Literacy Challenges for Physicians 16:27 Managing Debt and Lifestyle Inflation 19:18 Navigating Financial Advice and Insurance 22:17 The Evolution of Financial Planning Models 29:30 The Challenge of Active Fund Management 30:49 Introducing BudgeterMD: A Passion Project 32:12 Addressing Financial Literacy in Medicine 34:45 Services Offered by BudgeterMD 36:53 Feedback and Community Engagement 39:07 The Importance of Open Conversations About Money 41:55 Future Vision for BudgeterMD 44:30 The Cashflow Clinic: A Unique Approach 45:37 Exploring Podcasting as a Medium 48:39 Final Thoughts on Financial Literacy   Budget Your MD Website: https://www.budgetyourmd.ca/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianwigmore/?originalSubdomain=ca   Millen Wealth Advisors Visit our Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/   Follow Guillaume on Social Media Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Guillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/ Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/   Keywords Financial literacy, physicians, medical school, budgeting, financial planning, lifestyle inflation, debt management, financial advice, burnout, Budget

    53 min
  5. 2025-10-16

    Ep.028: The Downsides of Using Family Trusts

    Summary In this episode of the Millennial Money Canada podcast, hosts Guillaume Girard and Sam Lichtman, along with guest Mohammed Al-khooly, discuss various financial topics ranging from personal achievements in ultra marathons to misconceptions about the Canadian tax system, particularly regarding inheritance taxes. They delve into the complexities of family trusts, exploring their benefits and drawbacks, and discuss when they are appropriate for individuals and families. The conversation also touches on the importance of financial planning and the implications of prenuptial agreements in relation to trusts.   Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Introduction and Personal Accomplishments 06:12 Understanding Canadian Tax Misconceptions 15:26 Exploring Family Trusts: Basics and Benefits 32:40 Navigating Capital Gains and Business Sales 33:08 Competing Interests in Family Business Planning 34:29 Understanding Trusts and Associated Corporations 36:00 The Complexity of Trusts in Family Dynamics 39:25 When Trusts Are Not the Right Fit 40:34 Trusts for Special Circumstances 41:53 The Suitability of Trusts in Financial Planning 42:42 Professional Perspectives on Trust Recommendations 47:23 Trusts and Divorce Protection 49:53 Prenups vs. Trusts: A Personal Perspective 55:46 Investing in Relationships vs. Legal Protections   Millen Wealth Advisors Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/ Co-Pilot Tax Website: https://copilottax.ca/ Canadian Tax Guy: https://x.com/canadataxguy?lang=en   Follow us on Social Media Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Sam’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@millennialmoneycanada?lang=en Sam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/ Guillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/ Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/   Keywords Financial planning, tax system, family trusts, estate planning, ultra marathons, Canadian tax misconceptions, wealth management, inheritance tax, personal finance, financial education

    1 hr
  6. 2025-10-02

    Ep.027: Paying Dividends To Family Members (TOSI)

    Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences at a recent portfolio strategies conference, sharing insights on investment strategies and the importance of having a defined investment philosophy. They delve into the complexities of the Tax on Split Income (TOSI) rules, explaining how these regulations impact business owners and their ability to pay dividends to family members. The conversation highlights the need for careful tax planning and understanding of the rules to navigate potential pitfalls. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of knowing the intricacies of investment products and the trade-offs involved in financial planning. Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Conference Insights and Networking 12:33 Understanding TOSI: Tax on Split Income 24:42 Navigating Dividend Payments and Family Structures 24:44 Understanding Income Splitting Rules 28:47 Exploring Non-Resident Shareholder Implications 31:30 Navigating Tax Risks with Non-Resident Corporations 35:32 Client Engagement and Tax Knowledge 38:42 The Complexity of Tax Compliance 43:30 Investment Knowledge and Client Understanding   Millen Wealth Advisors Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/ Register for our Free Financial Planning Masterclass for Business Owners: https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/Financialmaster   Co-Pilot Tax Website: https://copilottax.ca/ Canadian Tax Guy: https://x.com/canadataxguy?lang=en   Follow us on Social Media Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Sam’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@millennialmoneycanada?lang=en Sam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/ Guillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/ Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/   Keywords TOSI, Tax on Split Income, investment strategies, financial planning, tax planning, portfolio management, business income, dividends, family business, tax risk

    52 min
  7. 2025-09-18

    Ep.026: Income Splitting Strategies for Business Owners

    Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss various strategies for income splitting, focusing on tax efficiency for business owners. They explore the implications of salary versus dividends, the use of capital dividends, and the importance of understanding attribution rules. The conversation emphasizes the need for holistic financial planning and the potential benefits of utilizing tools like RRSPs and RESPs for effective income splitting.   Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Introduction to the New Format 02:21 The Importance of Holistic Tax Planning 04:39 Income Splitting Strategies 11:34 Tax Risks in Income Splitting 17:21 Exploring Tax-Efficient Dividend Strategies 20:15 Balancing Immediate Costs and Future Growth 21:22 The Importance of Long-Term Financial Planning 22:44 Salary vs. Dividend: Making the Right Choice 24:36 Understanding Tax Implications for Business Owners 26:42 The Role of Income Splitting in Financial Strategy 30:12 Basic vs. Advanced Income Splitting Strategies 31:14 Utilizing RESPs for Tax-Efficient Income Splitting 32:40 Creative Strategies for Spousal RRSPs 38:57 Navigating Attribution Rules in Income Splitting 41:10 Understanding Anti-Avoidance Rules in Tax Strategies   Co-Pilot Tax Website: https://copilottax.ca/ Canadian Tax Guy: https://x.com/canadataxguy?lang=en   Millen Wealth Advisors Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/ Register for our Free Financial Planning Masterclass for Business Owners: https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/Financialmaster   Follow us on Social Media Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Sam’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@millennialmoneycanada?lang=en Sam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/ Guillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/ Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/   Keywords Income splitting, tax efficiency, salary vs dividends, capital dividends, attribution rules, financial planning, tax strategies, Canadian tax, RRSP, RESP

    43 min
  8. 2025-09-04

    Ep.025: Tax Considerations with Real Estate

    Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss the partnership between Copilot Tax and Millen Wealth Advisors, focusing on how this collaboration will enhance client services. They delve into the complexities of real estate investments, including tax considerations when buying, renting, and selling properties. The conversation highlights the importance of financial planning, the implications of depreciation, and the legal aspects of property ownership. The hosts emphasize the need for a cohesive approach among financial advisors to provide clients with comprehensive guidance.   Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Introduction and Partnership Announcement 02:53 Exploring Real Estate Tax Considerations 06:02 Buying Real Estate: Key Tax Issues 09:01 Understanding Rental Properties and Tax Implications 12:10 The Importance of Financial Planning in Real Estate 14:57 Depreciation: Benefits and Risks 17:56 Legal and Liability Considerations in Real Estate 20:58 Structuring Real Estate Investments: Personal vs Corporate 24:11 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways   Co-Pilot Tax Website: https://copilottax.ca/   Millen Wealth Advisors Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/ Register for our Free Financial Planning Masterclass for Business Owners: https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/Financialmaster Follow us on Social Media Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MillennialMoneyCanadaPodcast Sam’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@millennialmoneycanada?lang=en Sam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/ Guillaume’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financialplannergui/ Guillaume LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/   Keywords Real estate, tax considerations, financial planning, depreciation, rental properties, investment strategies, partnership, liability, home buyers, tax advice

    37 min
5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

The Personal CFO Podcast is where Canadian business owners learn how to make better decisions across the five types of wealth: financial, time, physical, social, and mental, so they can live well, build wealth, and leave a legacy they’re proud of.Hosted by Guillaume Girard, Financial Planner at Millen Wealth Advisors, this podcast dives into investing, retirement planning, taxes, insurance, and the decisions that matter most to business owners and incorporated professionals. Regulatory Disclosure & Disclaimer:Portfolio management services are provided by Portfolio Strategies Corporation, which is regulated by CIRO and a member of CIPF. Insurance solutions are offered through PPI Solutions. This podcast is for general information only and does not constitute personalized financial advice. Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/guillaume

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