Money Questions

Evangeline Wealth Management

Are money worries keeping you up at night? You’re not alone. Join Matt, a finance expert with over 20 years of experience, and Nate, a self-employed financial planner with 15 years in the industry, as they help you take control of your financial future. From financial literacy basics to practical tips for building wealth and avoiding common pitfalls, Matt and Nate bring clarity, empowerment, and a healthy perspective to your personal finances. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, improve your money habits, or simply get answers to your financial questions, this podcast is your go-to guide for navigating the complexities of money management. Tune in to Money Questions—where knowledge is power, and financial freedom starts with a single step.

  1. Aug 28

    Trillions

    In this episode of Money Questions, Matt and Nate zoom out from day‑to‑day dollars and cents to tackle a deceptively simple question: what is a trillion, really? Triggered by news of SpaceX going public and headlines about trillion‑dollar companies (and even a trillionaire on paper), they explore why our brains are so bad at grasping huge numbers — and why that matters for your investments, your savings habits, and your sense of time. Using vivid analogies — from stacking $100 bills into space to counting your life in weeks — they connect “trillions” back to real human timelines: careers, mortgages, raising kids, and retirement. Along the way, they dig into the Rule of 72, the snowball effect of compounding, and what today’s concentration of mega‑cap tech companies inside the S&P 500 means for anyone who thinks they’re “diversified” with a single index fund. This is a summer‑friendly, story‑driven episode about big numbers, big companies, and the surprisingly small handful of decisions that drive long‑term wealth. They dig into: Why trillions feel unreal.Life in weeks & mortality: The “life in weeks” poster, how seeing your life as a finite grid changes how you think about time and money.The rise of trillion‑dollar companies: From zero trillion‑dollar companies in 2016 to a roster that includes Apple, Nvidia, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, TSMC, Berkshire Hathaway, and more.The hidden concentration in the S&P 500: Why owning “500 companies” doesn’t mean your portfolio is actually diversified — and how 10–12 mega‑caps can drive a huge chunk of returns.The Rule of 72 and doubling your money: A simple mental shortcut to estimate how long it takes your money to double at different rates of return.Time vs rate vs risk.Savings rate: the overlooked superpower: Why your behaviour and savings rate matter more than chasing an extra 1–2% of return.Compounding and Warren Buffett: How most of Buffett’s net worth showed up late in life, and what that says about sticking with a plan.Patience over panic: The “hockey‑stick” shape of compounding — slow, boring early on, then suddenly explosive if you stay the course.Grounded in fun analogies, market history, and real client experiences, this episode turns an abstract question — what is a trillion? — into practical takeaways about saving earlier, understanding your actual risks, and letting time do the heavy lifting. Chapters: 00:00 – $1,000 a day since Jesus 00:25 – SpaceX, Saudi Aramco, and the first trillion‑dollar IPOs  02:22 – Why our brains are bad at “big numbers”  02:40 – From mammoth herds to market caps 03:40 – Million seconds vs billion seconds 04:20 – Life in weeks 05:10 – From billions to trillions in time 05:42 – Stacking $100 bills 06:53 – Why saving for retirement feels abstract in your 20s  07:28 – Trillion‑dollar companies: from zero in 2016 to a crowded club  08:08 – Apple at $500–600B and the “if it ever hits a trillion, I’m out” crowd  08:45 – Antitrust, regulation, and the rise of mega‑caps  09:08 – Who’s in the trillion‑dollar club now? Apple, Nvidia, Microsoft, Alphabet & more  09:08 – What the S&P 500 actually is: 500 biggest U.S. companies by market cap  09:55 – “I own 500 stocks, so I’m diversified”… or am I?  10:14 – How 10–12 giants soak up roughly 40% of the index  10:50 – Why index investors may be more concentrated than they think  11:58 – How do you grow to a trillion? 12:24 – Rule of 72 explained 12:51 – 2% vs 7.2% vs 14% 13:28 – Walking through a 30‑year compounding example from $10,000  14:00 – “Time matters more than timing” in real‑life financial planning  14:27 – Why you probably shouldn’t park 30‑year money at 2%  14:35 – Raising your savings as your income grows 15:48 – Time as your friend 16:12 – Want to retire in 5–10 years? Why “chasing returns” is gambling  16:34 – The only dial you fully control 16:46 – Time is time 16:52 – The “dirty little secret” of investing 17:26 – Earnings power, savings behaviour, and long‑term success  17:34 – Building good money habits early vs trying to fix things late  17:48 – Career risk vs portfolio risk  18:30 – Realizing you don’t need to swing for the fences forever  18:40 – So what? Why compounding feels slow… until it doesn’t  19:25 – The back‑loaded nature of growth  19:30 – The snowball analogy 19:31 – Warren Buffett: most of his billions arriving late in life  20:06 – “One Red Paperclip” and trading up 20:16 – Buffett at 95 and how long compounding’s been working for him  20:47 – Why most of his wealth appeared after 80  20:47 – Don’t be intimidated by big numbers — understand what drives them  20:52 – Watching your index funds 21:22 – The 2000–2010 “lost decade” and mean reversion in markets  22:00 – Why a global equity index may diversify better than just U.S. large caps  22:05 – “History doesn’t repeat, but it rhymes” 22:21 – Diversification, goals, and knowing what you actually own  22:23 – Patience over panic 22:56 – Letting time work for you 23:01 – Closing thoughts To learn more, visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England, CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England, CFP, Mutual Fund Representatives with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses may all be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact Sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed; their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

  2. Jul 30

    Institutional vs Independent Advice

    In this episode of Money Questions, Matt and Nate sit down with Adrian, a former bank advisor turned independent planner, to explore what really changes when your priority shifts from shareholder value to client outcomes. Using the analogy of oral health and “financial toothaches,” Adrian walks through how skipping regular financial checkups, just like skipping the dentist, can quietly turn small, fixable issues into painful, expensive crises. They dig into: Life inside the bank: Daily sales targets, product quotas, and why even well‑intentioned advisors struggle to give truly holistic advice.“Are you the client or the product?”: How shareholder‑first incentives shape the tools, training, and recommendations clients receive.The dentist analogy: Why consistent, boring financial hygiene (budgets, reviews, planning) prevents the equivalent of root canals in your money life.Independent vs bank platforms: Limited in‑house product shelves vs a global toolbox — and how that affects fees, flexibility, and client fit.Continuity and turnover: What happens when your bank advisor changes every 18 months versus building a 20‑year relationship with the same planner?Advisors on the fence: The fear, the leap of faith, and how moving from employee to business owner can realign your work with your “why.”Grounded in real stories from the subprime crisis, branch management, and financial literacy programs across Nova Scotia, this episode is part behind‑the‑scenes look at Canadian banking, part call‑to‑action for both clients and advisors: don’t wait for a financial toothache to take your planning seriously — and know there is an independent alternative. Chapters: 00:00 – Why no one likes the dentist (or financial planning)  00:46 – Meet Adrian: From forest ranger to financial advisor  02:17 – Taking 30–40 crisis calls a day during the 2008 meltdown  04:18 – The early days: Slowing down to build real client relationships  05:28 – How daily sales targets changed the advice game  07:20 – Targets, “opportunities,” and when KPIs replace client needs  08:46 – “Are you the client or the product?” Shareholder value explained  09:50 – Client loads in branches: 500–700 households… plus thousands with no advisor  10:24 – The layoff: New baby on the way, job gone overnight  12:04 – Big banks vs ma‑and‑pa: Relationships, decisions, and culture  12:58 – Discovering the independent channel and a values match  13:50 – Small toolbox vs global toolbox: Products, planning software, agility  18:38 – Banks selling only their own investments vs independent open shelves  20:14 – The risk of “analysis paralysis” and how good independents filter choice  20:45 – Message to clients: You have alternatives beyond the branch  21:57 – Advisor turnover: Restarting your story every 18 months  23:07 – Money stress, preventable crises, and why ongoing planning matters  25:09 – The full dentist analogy: Cleanings, flossing, and financial hygiene  27:40 – Why literacy programs and workplace education only go so far  29:20 – Independent, local, human: Finding the right long‑term fit  30:28 – A note to frustrated bank advisors: You deserve better  31:45 – Employee vs business owner: Running a practice, not a desk  33:03 – Making the leap: Fear, support, and skill transfer  34:01 – Trading your soul for a paycheck: The most expensive transaction  35:05 – Eight‑hour planning meetings and changing a family’s trajectory  36:31 – Small course corrections, big life outcomes  37:39 – The little things banks miss: Beneficiaries, RESPs, estate details  40:11 – Outcome‑focused vs revenue‑focused advice  42:13 – Final call to action for clients and advisors: Have the conversation  To learn more, visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England, CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England, CFP, Mutual Fund Representatives with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses may all be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact Sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed; their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

  3. Jun 5

    Never Bring A Hammer To A Screwdriver Job

    In this episode of Money Questions, Nate and Matt dig into one of the most hotly debated topics in Canadian personal finance: RRSP vs TFSA. Using the analogy of hammers, drills, and duffel bags of cash, they unpack why these accounts are tools, not solutions — and why the real answer to “Which is better?” is “It depends.” They cover: The $10,000 thought experiment: A simple side‑by‑side comparison showing that if your tax rate is the same going in and coming out, RRSPs and TFSAs can produce the same outcome.The “refund trap”: How spending your RRSP refund on oil tanks, vacations, and credit cards undermines the math — and why reinvesting refunds can supercharge long‑term compounding.Behavioral pitfalls of flexibility: Why TFSAs are so easy to raid for Disney trips and car repairs — and how that can quietly derail retirement plans.Hidden RRSP superpowers: Using RRSP contributions to boost government benefits like the Canada Child Benefit, and how that changes the math for families.Estate planning differences: How RRSPs are taxed on death vs how TFSAs can be incredibly estate‑friendly — especially when you use a successor holder designation for a spouse.Grounded in real client stories, actual tax-return data, and decades of planning experience, this episode is about moving past the RRSP vs TFSA tribalism — and choosing the right mix of tools for your income, family, and retirement plan. Chapters: 00:00 – Hammers, drills, and why RRSP vs TFSA is the wrong question01:45 – TikTok “RRSP scam” takes and emotional reactions to account types04:30 – RRSP 101: tax deferral, refunds, limits, and withdrawal penalties08:00 – TFSA 101: after‑tax contributions, tax‑free growth, and flexibility11:00 – Suitcases and backpacks: RRSPs/TFSAs as containers, not investments14:45 – The $10,000 example: when RRSP and TFSA math looks identical17:10 – The refund trap: what really happens to most RRSP refunds19:30 – TFSA contribution room: growing it, evaporating it, and big wins/losses21:20 – Flexibility vs discipline: raiding TFSAs and short‑ vs long‑term goals22:40 – The $60–70K rule of thumb — and why “it depends” is more accurate24:30 – Canada Child Benefit and other RRSP‑driven government boosts27:00 – Personal tax‑free amounts, CPP timing, and RRSP withdrawal strategy31:00 – Death, taxes, and estates: RRSP vs TFSA on your final tax return33:05 – Successor holder vs beneficiary: a crucial TFSA estate detail34:20 – Tools, not solutions: why the best plan usually uses both RRSP and TFSA To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

  4. Apr 13

    Investing When the World Feels Like It’s Falling Apart

    In this episode of Money Questions, Nate and Matt dig into what it means to invest when the news feels like the world is falling apart — wars, pandemics, political chaos, and all. They tackle the emotional side of money, the hard data on markets, and what real‑life investors should actually do when they’re scared. They cover: The “ghost of market future” thought experiment: if you knew in January 2020 about COVID, lockdowns, civil unrest, and global turmoil — would you still have invested?“Am I going to be okay?”: the real question behind clients’ calls when the headlines turn dark — and how advisors answer it.Why we invest at all: protecting purchasing power from inflation, and why cash under the mattress quietly loses to rising prices.The Andex chart: zooming out over decades of data, seeing wars, recessions, pandemics, and crises — and why the long‑term line still trends up and to the right.When (and how) to change your plan: using crises as a wake‑up call if your risk level is truly too high — instead of making all‑or‑nothing, panic‑driven moves.Grounded in real client conversations and decades of market history, this episode is about how to keep investing in a world that never stops throwing curveballs — and how to separate terrifying headlines from your long‑term financial future. Chapters: 00:00 – Setting the stage: pandemics, wars, and scary headlines01:30 – The “ghost of market future” thought experiment (January 2020)03:20 – Human toll vs. talking about money during global trauma05:10 – Why we invest: inflation, purchasing power, and not burying cash06:20 – Investor profiles: goals, timelines, and risk tolerance in real life08:00 – “What would you do if your portfolio dropped 20%?” (questionnaires vs reality)10:00 – The Andex chart: zooming out on decades of crises and returns12:40 – Betting on humanity: why markets recover (or else money won’t matter)15:00 – Turmoil as opportunity: Contributions-in-a-crisis insight16:30 – Diversification, global markets, and staying invested through volatility18:40 – History of geopolitical shocks and market returns 21:30 – Ten rules for dealing with uncertainty and market timing myths25:20 – Simplicity vs complexity: why a solid, simple plan often wins26:50 – “Doing nothing is a decision”: panic, partial changes, and avoiding all-or-nothing moves28:20 – Crisis as a wake-up call: when it does make sense to adjust risk29:30 – Closing thoughts: hope, resilience, and focusing on long-term goals To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

  5. Mar 16

    Never Open a Brown Envelope on a Friday

    In this episode of Money Questions, Nate and Matt unpack the stress of brown envelopes from the CRA, what’s actually inside them, and how to turn tax season from anxiety‑ridden to manageable. They cover: Brown envelope anxiety: why CRA mail feels scary and what those letters usually mean.Tax brackets 101 (Canada): marginal vs. average tax rates, and why earning more doesn’t suddenly make all your income taxed at a higher rate.Your biggest expense (hint: it’s not your mortgage): how much of your income effectively goes to taxes.Notices of Assessment: what they actually show, how to find your real tax rate, and why they’re central to financial planning.Installments & interest: when CRA asks for quarterly payments, what happens if you don’t pay them, and how the interest works.Self‑employed reality check: paying both sides of CPP, why tax bills shock business owners, and how to avoid falling behind.TFSA traps: outdated CRA TFSA info, over‑contributions, and the 1%‑per‑month penalty (and how to avoid it).CRA’s online portal: 10 years of history, RRSP and TFSA room, credits, balances, and how advisors use it to help you.Refunds as “savings”: why a big tax refund is really an interest‑free loan to the government and why aiming near a $0 refund is usually better.Staying organized: checklists, digital folders, taking photos of slips, and why showing up with a Sobeys bag of receipts costs you time and money.Everyday tax planning: RRSPs, employer pensions, medical and childcare expenses, and other deductions/credits that can reduce tax and improve overall financial well‑being.Grounded in real client stories and practical planning, this conversation is about understanding your tax life so the brown envelope doesn’t control your stress levels.Chapters 0:00 – The brown envelope rule & intro to tax anxiety0:56 – Canadian tax season timelines (CRA opens, April 30 & June 15)1:48 – Why people rush to file early (and chase T‑slips)2:17 – What this episode covers: brown envelopes, CRA portal, and tax stress3:02 – Tax brackets 101: federal vs. provincial and progressive rates4:32 – Average tax rate vs. marginal tax rate (jargon alert)5:40 – Taxes as your largest expense (more than mortgage or car)6:53 – Clearing up “I don’t want to earn more and hit a higher bracket”7:48 – Using your Notice of Assessment in real financial planning9:03 – Brown envelopes from CRA: what actually shows up in the mail9:46 – Installment reminders: when and why CRA asks for quarterly payments10:18 – Should you pay installments? Interest risks and “napkin math”10:53 – Other brown‑envelope items: CPP/OAS updates and reassessments13:48 – CRA online portal: why Nate strongly recommends signing up14:33 – Giving advisors access & seeing the same letters together15:04 – What’s inside the CRA portal: 10‑year history, room, credits, balances15:57 – TFSA reporting gaps and why CRA’s numbers can mislead you16:43 – TFSA over‑contribution penalties (1% per month) and delays17:35 – Why you must track TFSA contributions yourself17:58 – Filing early to get refunds vs. filing with complete information18:25 – Using tax refunds as a “savings account” with CRA19:40 – Why a big refund is an interest‑free loan to the government20:31 – Targeting a near‑zero refund and better cash‑flow planning20:56 – Taxes owed when income is earned (especially for self‑employed)22:02 – CPP shock: paying both employer and employee portions22:55 – Falling behind on taxes and how CRA collections actually works23:44 – Garnishments, frozen accounts, and why you must call CRA first24:15 – When you can’t pay in full: 12‑month plans and full financial disclosure25:05 – Side hustles, tips, crypto, rental income and tax evasion risks25:25 – “How do we pay the government less?” (legally)25:40 – Using RRSPs, pensions, and other tools to reduce taxes26:18 – Medical, childcare, and other provincial‑specific deductions27:00 – Staying organized: checklists, folders, cloud storage, and Sobeys bags28:35 – Why disorganized receipts cost you in fees and time28:52 – Tax health as part of financial well‑being29:11 – Year‑end pay stubs and mock tax returns before the RRSP deadline30:32 – Using RRSP contributions to reduce taxes payable31:17 – Why Nate secretly likes tax season (for planning data)32:03 – Why advisors need to see your tax situation32:19 – Legal and investment disclaimers To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

  6. Feb 9

    Babies

    In this episode of Money Questions, Nate (no kids) and Matt (dad of two) break down the real financial impact of having a baby in Canada. They cover: The true cost of raising a child, including the first-year expensesDelivery costs: deductibles, co-pays, hospital rooms, and planning around health insurance. Baby gear on a budget: cribs, car seats, strollers, and the value of buying secondhand. Parental leave & income: EI/parental benefits, employer top-ups, and planning for reduced cash flow. Emergency savings & credit options during that first unpredictable yearThe rising cost of childcare and how it shapes decisions about where to live and work. Risk management: income protection, disability coverage, life insurance, and wills/guardianship. Long-term planning: prioritizing retirement vs. kids’ activities, and using RESPs and government grants to save for education. Grounded in Matt’s real-life experience and Nate’s planning lens, this conversation gives expecting (and surprised) parents a practical framework to think through money, risk, and long-term goals when a baby enters the picture. To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

  7. Jan 12

    Scams, Schemes & Staying Safe

    In this episode, Matt and Nate break down modern financial scams, from romance scams and “Nigerian prince” schemes to Ponzi structures and fake government calls. They share real client stories, explain how criminals exploit fear, greed, and loneliness, and offer practical, step‑by‑step ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. Key Topics Covered Why Financial Scams Are SurgingAI, voice cloning, and deepfakes making scams more convincingFraud losses in Canada in 2024 and why many cases go unreportedReal‑World Scam StoriesElderly investor duped via tech-support style scamFake computer-compromise warningRemote access granted, funds moved from RRIF, TFSA, and lines of creditClassic “send money to unlock a much larger payout” setupRomance / “Pig Butchering” scamElderly man forms online relationship with younger “grad student”Fake legal documents, estate settlement narrative, and pressure for ~USD 80,000How advisors and lawyers spotted the fraud in timeClassic & High‑Profile SchemesOrigin of the Ponzi scheme (Charles Ponzi, international reply coupons, “guaranteed” 50–400% returns)Bernie Madoff as a modern large‑scale Ponzi exampleUsing new investors’ money to pay old investors until the scheme collapsesModern Variants: Crypto & Social Media ScamsFake government‑backed crypto opportunities featuring public figures in adsGuaranteed, above‑market returns used as hooks (e.g., “18% guaranteed” on REITs)Psychology of ScamsExploiting fear, greed, lust, envy, shame, insecurityCreating urgency and emotional pressure so people act against their better judgmentRed Flags and Prevention Tips“If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is”Be wary of:Guaranteed returns (outside insured bank products / GICs)Unsolicited calls or emails about taxes, credit cards, deliveries, or “compromised” accountsRequests to move money “to protect it” or into cryptoRequests for remote access to your computerBest practices:Hang up and independently call back using an official numberUse multi‑factor authentication on financial and email accountsFreeze or lock accounts/credit cards if you suspect compromiseConsider credit monitoring, especially after data breachesConsult a licensed financial professional before acting on online “opportunities”What To Do If You’re ScammedContact the institution where the money is held firstThen contact the local police (non‑emergency line)Report to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud CentreTalk with family, trusted friends, or your advisor despite the embarrassmentUse incidents as education for clients and the broader publicKey Takeaways Scams are increasingly sophisticated due to technology and social engineering.Guarantees, urgency, emotional manipulation, and secrecy are major red flags.Verification, slowing down, and talking to trusted professionals are your best protection.Staying vigilant today is critical because scam tools will only get better over time.To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

  8. Season 2 Trailer

    Season 2 Is Here!

    Money Questions is back for Season 2, and we’re kicking things off with a brand-new trailer that sets the tone for what’s ahead. Are money worries keeping you up at night? You’re not alone. This season, Matt (a finance expert with 20+ years of experience) and Nate (a self-employed financial planner with 15 years in the industry) are back to help you take control of your financial future, with clarity, honesty, and zero judgement. Season 2 goes deeper into: Practical financial literacy you can actually useSmarter habits for reducing stress around moneyCommon pitfalls, and how to avoid themNo hype. No guilt. Just clear answers to real money questions.  Full season coming soon To learn more visit: https://www.evangelinewealth.com/ DISCLAIMER: The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This presentation was prepared, by Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, for the benefit of Matthew McGowan and Nathan England CFP, Mutual Fund Representative with Evangeline Wealth Management, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this presentation comes from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the Fund Fact sheet or prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

Trailers

About

Are money worries keeping you up at night? You’re not alone. Join Matt, a finance expert with over 20 years of experience, and Nate, a self-employed financial planner with 15 years in the industry, as they help you take control of your financial future. From financial literacy basics to practical tips for building wealth and avoiding common pitfalls, Matt and Nate bring clarity, empowerment, and a healthy perspective to your personal finances. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, improve your money habits, or simply get answers to your financial questions, this podcast is your go-to guide for navigating the complexities of money management. Tune in to Money Questions—where knowledge is power, and financial freedom starts with a single step.