The Personal CFO Podcast

Guillaume Girard, CFA CFP
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The Personal CFO Podcast is for Canadian business owners who want to build wealth while they’re working, and live off it when they stop. Hosted by Guillaume Girard, Wealth Advisor & Financial Planner, the show breaks down investing, tax strategy, retirement planning, and insurance without hype, noise, or product-driven advice. General information only. Portfolio management through Portfolio Strategies Corporation (CIRO, CIPF). Insurance via PPI Solutions. Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/guillaume

  1. 20H AGO

    Ep.035: Canadian Housing Crash or Opportunity? What You Need to Know

    Summary This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the Canadian real estate market, exploring recent declines, regional differences, and investment strategies. Experts discuss whether now is a good time to buy, how to interpret market forecasts, and practical tools for making informed decisions. Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 The Current State of the Canadian Real Estate Market 05:29 Understanding the Emotional and Quantitative Aspects of Real Estate Decisions 14:34 Analyzing Regional Variations in Housing Prices 21:43 Key Drivers Behind the Current Housing Correction 31:47 Navigating the Future: Is Now a Good Time to Buy? 32:41 Forecasting Housing Prices: A Comparative Analysis 35:02 Evaluating the Accuracy of Price Predictions 35:58 The Importance of Historical Data in Financial Planning 38:08 Factors Influencing Housing Market Dynamics 39:54 Navigating the Transition Phase in Real Estate 42:02 The Rent vs. Own Debate: A New Perspective 44:06 Understanding the Calculator: Investment Decisions 54:27 Risk Premiums and Real Estate Returns 01:02:17 Final Thoughts on Real Estate vs. Investment Portfolio If you want to learn how we work with incorporated business owners, book a private intro call here: Book it here: https://mwadvisors.as.me/GuillaumeGirard1 Subscribe to our NewsletterThe Personal CFO: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/newsletter-guillaume Millen Wealth AdvisorsVisit our Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/guillaume Connect with Guillaume & SamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/Sam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-lichtman/ KeywordsReal estate Canada, housing market, investment strategies, market forecast, housing correction, mortgage rates, regional differences, buying vs renting

    1h 4m

  2. FEB 22

    Ep.034: The 8 RRSP Mistakes Costing Business Owners Thousands

    Summary Guillaume Girard discusses strategic tax planning for business owners, focusing on RRSP utilization, compensation structures, and future exit planning to optimize wealth and minimize taxes. Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Introduction: Common Financial Mistakes for Business Owners 00:55 The Role of RRSP in Tax-Efficient Wealth Building 01:42 Deciding Where to Invest Surplus Cash: Business or Personal 03:10 Tax Layers and Strategies for Extracting Money from Your Business 04:01 Diversifying Wealth: Building a Second Business or Portfolio 05:43 Tax Changes and Protecting Your Wealth 06:27 RRSP as a Strategic Tool for Long-Term Tax Reduction 07:20 Understanding Salary vs Dividends for RRSP Room 09:54 The Integration of Corporate and Personal Taxes 11:38 Investing Inside vs Outside the Corporation 16:40 Passive Income Rules and Corporate Investment Limits 22:44 Preparing Your Business for Sale and Capital Gains Exemption 24:28 The Individual Pension Plan (IPP) as an Alternative to RRSP 26:24 Risk Management: Protecting Assets from Creditors 27:30 Retirement Income Strategies and Withdrawal Planning 30:10 When Does an RRSP Strategy Make Sense? 32:30 Key Takeaways and Final Advice for Business Owners If you want to learn how we work with incorporated business owners, book a private intro call here: Book it here: https://mwadvisors.as.me/GuillaumeGirard1 Subscribe to our NewsletterThe Personal CFO: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/newsletter-guillaume Millen Wealth AdvisorsVisit our Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/guillaume Connect with GuillaumeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/

    34 min

  3. FEB 15

    Ep.033: Get Tax-Free Money From Your Corporation

    Summary In this episode of the Personal CFO Podcast, host Guillaume Girard delves into the Capital Dividend Account (CDA), a powerful yet often overlooked tax planning tool for Canadian business owners. He explains the mechanics of the CDA, how it allows for tax-free dividends, and the importance of strategic planning in utilizing this account effectively. The episode covers common mistakes to avoid, the steps to extract dividends, and the timing for optimal use of the CDA. Additionally, Girard connects the CDA to broader tax strategies, emphasizing the need for cohesive financial planning. Topics Covered in this Episode 00:00 Introduction to the Capital Dividend Account (CDA) 04:05 Understanding the Mechanics of CDA 08:29 Creating and Managing Your CDA 14:21 Steps to Extract Tax-Free Dividends 17:20 Strategic Timing for Using CDA 21:09 Common Mistakes and Pitfalls with CDA 26:17 Connecting CDA with Other Tax Strategies If you want to learn how we work with incorporated business owners, book a private intro call here: Book it here: https://mwadvisors.as.me/GuillaumeGirard1 Subscribe to our NewsletterThe Personal CFO: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/newsletter-guillaume Millen Wealth AdvisorsVisit our Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/guillaume Connect with GuillaumeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-girard-cfa-cfp-08487170/ Sources: The insights and information in this episode were drawn from Canadian tax guidance and expert resources, including the Canada Revenue Agency and experienced tax professionals, to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate picture of the Capital Dividend Account as of 2026. Stay tuned for more tips on integrating your personal and business finances!

    30 min

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 11/28/2025

    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

  7. 11/06/2025

    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

  8. 10/16/2025

    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
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About

The Personal CFO Podcast is for Canadian business owners who want to build wealth while they’re working, and live off it when they stop. Hosted by Guillaume Girard, Wealth Advisor & Financial Planner, the show breaks down investing, tax strategy, retirement planning, and insurance without hype, noise, or product-driven advice. General information only. Portfolio management through Portfolio Strategies Corporation (CIRO, CIPF). Insurance via PPI Solutions. Website: https://www.mwadvisors.ca/guillaume

Information

  • Creator
    Guillaume Girard, CFA CFP
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Guillaume Girard, CFA CFP
  • Show Website
    The Personal CFO Podcast

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