I've Heard Worse

Sara McCullough

Do you ever feel like the only one who doesn’t have a firm grasp of their finances? Like you can make money and save it - but you don’t really know what to do with it? You’re far from alone- money is stressful! On average, Canadians spend 15 hours a week worrying about their money - but there is a way forward with confidence and clarity. Your money can and should be working for you, and you should be taking steps to secure your financial future, for your retirement, and for your family. On I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough will teach you how to define your specific issues (or opportunities!) with your money and how to set up your finances so that you don’t have to spend your precious time on ‘what ifs’—you’ll know what your financial future looks like. Learn more at https://www.wddevelopment.ca/

Episodes

  1. Episode 12: The Butterfly Effect & Your Finances

    04/02/2025

    Episode 12: The Butterfly Effect & Your Finances

    What if a single financial decision could change the course of your life forever? In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough explores how small shifts in your financial planning can have a profound ripple effect, unlocking opportunities, reducing stress, and even benefiting those around you. Whether you're navigating through tough decisions or simply looking to enhance your financial situation, the choices you make today can shape your future in unimaginable ways. Key Points: Do you know where you stand? - Clarity in your financial situation builds confidence and helps you stay on track with your goals, leading to long-term stability. A $25,000 deficit—gone! - A simple adjustment in payment timing helped a client eliminate financial stress and gain control over their monthly budget. Is stress about money taking over your life? - Financial overwhelm can seep into all aspects of your life, causing missed work and relationship strain—why let it control you? Who’s profiting from your confusion? - Investment firms, banks, and lenders thrive on your lack of financial clarity. But the goal should always be for YOU to benefit from your own choices. A butterfly’s wings, a million-dollar shift! - Small financial decisions can have an outsized impact, just like the butterfly effect—shaping your future in ways you might not expect. Don’t leave money on the table! - Whether it’s a 10% or 50% increase, your financial outcomes can dramatically improve when you make informed, thoughtful choices. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram 2025 stress index Scotiabank 4th annual Worry Poll (2023) Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period Original CPP delay study CPP explainer video Monarch Money - organize your financial transactions.  Connect your bank accounts and sort from there!  If you were previously a user of Mint, Monarch Money is owned by 2 previous Mint employees. List of Advice-Only Planners in Canada  - List is embedded in this page, which also talks about advice-only planning. Shannon Lee Simmons - Author of 4 books on handling your money Rational Reminder podcast: “Sensible investing and financial decision-making, from two Canadians” Renting vs Buying calculator Couples That Work

    30 min
  2. Episode 11: The Cost of Doing Nothing

    04/02/2025

    Episode 11: The Cost of Doing Nothing

    Think financial planning is just for the ultra-wealthy? What if one simple decision could change your net worth by six figures? In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough breaks down the real value of financial planning, why "free" advice isn’t actually free, and how a single smart move could reshape your financial future. You'll also learn why false time pressure leads to costly mistakes and how to shift your mindset from avoiding financial conversations to owning them with confidence. If you've ever wondered whether planning is worth the price, this episode will change how you see your money. Key Points: Creative solutions don’t happen in isolation -  Going solo on financial planning might mean missing out on better strategies. Financial planning isn't free—so what were you expecting? -  It takes time, expertise, and effort, and the right guidance can pay off exponentially. Urgency is often an illusion -  Just because something feels time-sensitive doesn’t mean it actually is—making rushed financial moves can cost you big. One bad decision could cost you $47,000 - Understanding the impact of your choices now can change your long-term wealth. Doing nothing is a decision too—just not a good one - The first step doesn't have to be big; even asking one question gets you moving in the right direction. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period Monarch Money - organize your financial transactions.  Connect your bank accounts and sort from there!  If you were previously a user of Mint, Monarch Money is owned by two previous Mint employees. List of Advice-Only Planners in Canada  - List is embedded in this page, which also talks about advice-only planning. Shannon Lee Simmons - Author of 4 books on handling your money Rational Reminder podcast: “Sensible investing and financial decision-making, from two Canadians” Renting vs Buying calculator I've Heard Worse Episode 9

    26 min
  3. Episode 10: Money Questions? Answered!

    04/02/2025

    Episode 10: Money Questions? Answered!

    Got money questions? You’re not alone! If you're unsure where your money is actually going, how much you should be saving, or whether you're working with the right financial expert, this episode is for you. Certified Financial Planner Sara McCullough answers the most common (and trickiest) questions about financial planning—so you can take control with confidence. Key Points Your salary isn’t your cash flow -  Know what actually lands in your bank account and what’s already spent before your next paycheck arrives. Saving ‘enough’ depends on you -  There’s no magic percentage—your savings target should match your situation and goals. Cash flow is king -  It’s not just about how much you make, but when and how money moves in and out of your life. Stop chasing a credit score - Focus on building smart financial habits—your credit score will follow. Overwhelmed? Write it down -  Acknowledging financial stress is the first step toward fixing it. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period Monarch Money- an app to sort out your money ins & outs List of Advice-only planners in Canada Books by Shannon Lee Simmons on handling your money Rational Reminder podcast I've Heard Worse Episode 6

    20 min
  4. Episode 9: Life Gets Crazy, Your Finances Shouldn’t

    04/02/2025

    Episode 9: Life Gets Crazy, Your Finances Shouldn’t

    What if everything went wrong at once? Would you still be financially stable, or would you be scrambling for solutions? In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough dives into the power of knowing your numbers, anticipating challenges, and making informed financial decisions—whether you’re planning for the future or navigating a crisis right now. Key Points: If you don’t know, you don’t know – Why knowing your numbers is the foundation of financial confidence and how it empowers you to make better decisions. What if the car dies, the roof leaks, and you booked a big trip? – How to plan for life's inevitable financial stressors so you're not caught off guard. Don't spend ahead—it's like hoping to win the lottery – Why relying on future money (inheritance, promotions, windfalls) can be a dangerous habit. Arguing over money is expensive – How one couple saved their finances and their relationship by changing how they handled money conversations. What’s your version of Sara’s shoes? – How financial clarity can help you spend guilt-free on what truly brings you joy. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period

    44 min
  5. Episode 8: The ‘Too Little’ Trap

    04/02/2025

    Episode 8: The ‘Too Little’ Trap

    What if paying off your house isn’t the smartest move—but a financial trap? Many people believe a debt-free home equals financial security, but what if that mindset is holding you back from real financial freedom? In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough challenges conventional retirement wisdom, breaks down the surprising results of a new CPP study, and reveals why many retirees struggle to actually spend the wealth they’ve built. Plus, we unpack why your financial decisions should be based on facts—not just rules of thumb. Key Points: Your house won’t pay the bills. Home equity isn’t cash—so how will you actually access it when you need it? Being ‘too responsible’ can cost you. Many retirees underspend out of fear, even when they have plenty of money. Are you one of them? Most people make financial decisions blind. The CPP study shows that many don’t understand what they’re actually entitled to—are you missing out? Flexibility beats rigidity. Being "house rich, cash poor" locks you in, while liquid assets give you the power to make better choices. You saved for a reason—use it! Retirement isn’t just about having enough. It’s about using your wealth to create the life you actually want. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period Original CPP delay study CPP explainer video

    28 min
  6. Episode 7: Too Much

    04/02/2025

    Episode 7: Too Much

    You work hard for your money—but are your financial habits actually working against you? Could the way you're prioritizing (or not prioritizing) be putting your future self in a tough spot? In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough is breaking down three major financial mistakes that even smart people make—and how to fix them before they cost you. Key Points: Prioritization matters -  If everything is a priority, nothing is. Align your financial choices with what truly matters most. Emotional spending is sneaky -  If you don’t know the last time you said “no” to yourself, you might be making spending decisions based on impulse rather than intention. The future arrives faster than you think -  Prioritizing today without considering tomorrow can lead to financial traps that are tough to escape. You need a plan, not just good intentions - Knowing where your money is going—and where it should be going—is key to long-term stability. Small changes now prevent big problems later -  Course-correcting doesn’t have to be drastic, but waiting too long can make it painful. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period   Worksheet to check if you’re Too Much with your money

    35 min
  7. Episode 6: Two Buckets, One Plan

    04/02/2025

    Episode 6: Two Buckets, One Plan

    Are you making decisions with only half the information? If you’re not thinking in both buckets - today and tomorrow, you might be setting yourself up for financial blind spots. In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough breaks down how to track your numbers, anticipate future spending, and avoid common DIY planning mistakes. Key Points: Do you have answers in both buckets? - Many people plan for today but ignore how their choices impact tomorrow. You need a clear picture of both. They can’t pull the wool over their own eyes - Business owners must recognize that every decision affects personal finances—no more fudging the numbers! Tax strategies are very much the opposite of common practices - The way you handle taxes in retirement is not the same as during your working years—get ahead of it! We rarely see our own situation clearly - Emotion clouds judgment. An objective expert can help you see blind spots and make better financial choices. I still hear your voice in the back of my head - A strong plan keeps you accountable, even when no one is watching. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period

    37 min
  8. Episode 5: In Sickness and in Health

    04/02/2025

    Episode 5: In Sickness and in Health

    What happens to your finances when life throws a curveball—like death or divorce? Are you really prepared, or is your family left with someone else’s plan? In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough discusses the importance of planning for life’s major transitions and how failing to prepare can cause both financial and emotional strain. Whether it’s passing on a business or preparing for a divorce, the right steps today can save your loved ones from unnecessary turmoil tomorrow. Key Points: Failing to plan causes financial and emotional hardship – Without a solid plan, your family could face confusion, tax surprises, and disputes. It’s not just about money; it's about peace of mind. No plan means you get someone else’s plan for your family – Without a will or proper financial planning, the system will decide how things are divided. That’s a risk you don’t want to take. Do the planning that needs to be done – Make sure your loved ones know exactly where your assets are, what you owe, and how things will unfold after you’re gone. Any step now reduces future stress – Even small steps, like creating a list of assets or updating your beneficiaries, can reduce future uncertainty for your family. It’s about keeping accurate financial records – This applies to both death and divorce. Understanding what you own and owe now makes big financial decisions easier later. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period

    30 min
  9. Episode 4: The Dynamic Duo: Net Worth & Cash Flow

    04/02/2025

    Episode 4: The Dynamic Duo: Net Worth & Cash Flow

    Do you know your own net worth? Want to truly start taking control of your finances? It all starts with understanding the mentioned above net worth and cash flow. In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough breaks down why these two elements are crucial for your financial health. By being proactive in tracking your net worth and cash flow, you can avoid costly mistakes and make smarter decisions for your future. The more you know about your financial situation, the better equipped you'll be to take control and plan for long-term success. Key Takeaways: Net Worth Defined: Your net worth is the difference between what you own (assets) and what you owe (debts). It’s your financial snapshot at any given time. Calculate Your Net Worth: List all assets (e.g., house, savings) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans) to find your net worth. Keep it simple—don’t overthink it. Cash Flow is Key: Regular money coming in and going out is just as important as your net worth. A tight cash flow can hurt even a high net worth. Know Your Financial Risks: High debt or dependence on home equity can create financial trouble, even with assets like real estate. Take Action: Review your net worth annually, understand how your finances connect, and track both net worth and cash flow to make better financial decisions. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period

    29 min
  10. Episode 3: Planning Over Pitching

    04/02/2025

    Episode 3: Planning Over Pitching

    Is financial planning truly helping you make confident money decisions, or is it just a sales pitch disguised as advice? In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough discusses the truth about financial planning, and why most of us aren't getting the guidance we need. She shares valuable insights and actionable steps to help you take control of your financial future. By asking the right questions and gaining clarity on your goals, you can make empowered decisions about your money. Key Points You sound like a regular person — Financial planning isn't just for the ultra-wealthy or in times of crisis. It's for anyone who wants clarity and control over their money, no matter their situation. How does this help me meet my goals? — The key question you should ask every advisor every time they propose something. This simple question ensures your goals are at the center of every decision. Clarity starts with tiny steps — Making small, intentional decisions about your money can lead to major shifts in how you view and manage your finances. You deserve options, not a sales pitch — Understand the difference between real financial planning and investment sales tactics. A good financial planner gives you all the options and the pros and cons of each. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period

    26 min
  11. Episode 2: Your Goals vs. Your Money—Who’s Winning?

    04/02/2025

    Episode 2: Your Goals vs. Your Money—Who’s Winning?

    Is Your Money Actually Working for You—Or Against You? We all have financial goals, but are we making them harder than they need to be? Sometimes, the most responsible choice isn’t a complicated strategy—it’s just making the decision. In this episode of I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough breaks down how financial planning can help you untangle stress, take control, and quiet that loud voice in your head. Key Points Just buy the car – The story of a client who overcomplicated his financial plan when the simplest solution was right in front of him. A shaky moment is not the same as financial risk – How I navigated my own financial fears after becoming self-employed—and the process I use to check if things are truly okay. Managing your money isn’t a one-shot thing – Why financial planning isn’t about one perfect answer but about adapting to your changing life. That voice in your head isn’t leaving—but it can be quieter – Identifying the financial stress points that trigger your worries and finding ways to address them. Pick a date to get real answers – Over the next few weeks, notice when that inner financial voice is the loudest. What triggers it? Then, set a deadline to address it. Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Updated financial stress index Scotiabank 4th annual Worry Poll (2023) Organize Your Financials - with 45 days free trial period

    25 min
  12. Episode 1: How to De-Stress Your Money

    04/02/2025

    Episode 1: How to De-Stress Your Money

    Ever wonder if you're the only one struggling with your money, or why it feels like everyone else has it figured out? In this first episode of I've Heard Worse, Sara McCullough dives deep into why we stress over money and how to break free from the confusion and uncertainty. She shares practical tools, personal insights, and the approach you need to start making confident financial decisions. It's time to stop worrying and start making money work for you. Key Takeaways: Money's job is to be there so that you can trade it for other things. Shift your mindset to ease stress and achieve your goals. We all have these money stories. Identify and reshape the emotional stories that impact your decisions. Mistakes in the past can help you move forward differently. Let go of past mistakes and use them as lessons. Information plus context leads to change. Apply financial knowledge to your unique situation for better results. Your today and tomorrow can be different. Personalized planning can create lasting change Resources Sara McCullough on Web | LinkedIn | Email | Instagram Organize your Financials Scotiabank 4th Annual Worry Poll (2023) Updated Financial Stress Index

    12 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Do you ever feel like the only one who doesn’t have a firm grasp of their finances? Like you can make money and save it - but you don’t really know what to do with it? You’re far from alone- money is stressful! On average, Canadians spend 15 hours a week worrying about their money - but there is a way forward with confidence and clarity. Your money can and should be working for you, and you should be taking steps to secure your financial future, for your retirement, and for your family. On I’ve Heard Worse, Sara McCullough will teach you how to define your specific issues (or opportunities!) with your money and how to set up your finances so that you don’t have to spend your precious time on ‘what ifs’—you’ll know what your financial future looks like. Learn more at https://www.wddevelopment.ca/

Information

  • Creator
    Sara McCullough
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Copyright
    © 2025