Episodes

If you’re a millennial, you probably remember sitting through school lessons that promised to prepare you for “the real world” — but somehow, managing money didn’t make the syllabus. In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, we’re diving into the financial lessons we never got, and how we can catch up now. We’ll talk about everything from credit scores and student loans to the side hustle grind and avoiding financial burnout. It's time to take control of your finances and build a future that works...

Owning a home is often seen as the ultimate milestone, but let’s face it: it comes with more costs than just the down payment. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the hidden expenses of homeownership in Canada and breaking down what you need to know to avoid surprises down the road. We’ll talk about everything from down payments and mortgage payments to property taxes and home insurance. If you’re thinking about buying a home or are already in the process, this episode will help ...

In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, we’re giving you the pep talk you need to take charge of your financial life. No need to wait for a “financial expert” to swoop in — you have the power to create the financial future you want, right now. We’ll walk through the top 10 tasks that will set you on the path to financial freedom, confidence, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re in control. Whether you're just starting out or ready to level up, these small, consistent actions will...

Welcome to Tandia Talks Money! In this episode, we’re talking about the real-world financial stress Canadians are facing — from rising interest rates to the uncertainty of the economy. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with simple, actionable steps to help you take control of your money and reduce stress. We’ll break down the current economic situation and share practical tips like micro-budgeting, creating a “joy fund,” and setting up an emergency buffer to help you feel more in control. ...

Kids pick up money habits early—and most of what they learn comes from what they see at home. In this episode, we talk about how to make everyday money moments more meaningful, how to explain needs vs. wants in a way that makes sense, and why setting simple goals can help kids feel more in control of their spending. We’ll also walk through how Tandia can support you with tools and advice that make financial learning part of everyday life. What You’ll Learn: How your money habits shape your ch...

Debt happens—but staying stuck in it doesn’t have to be your story. In this episode, we unpack the emotional and financial traps of the debt cycle, why it's so hard to escape, and how you can take real steps toward freedom (without giving up your daily coffee or joy). From budgeting for your real life to understanding avalanche vs. snowball methods, this is your no-shame, all-strategy guide to taking control. Relatable. Practical. Empowering. Just how we like it. Ready to break free? Book a fr...

Summer’s here, and with it comes the pressure to say yes to every invite. But how do you balance mental health, friendships, and financial boundaries without feeling left out? In this episode, we’re talking about the emotional side of money—why adult friendships get complicated, how spending can spiral, and why loud budgeting might be the freedom you didn’t know you needed. We break down how to protect your peace, stick to your goals, and still enjoy life without guilt. Listen in if you're re...

Mother’s Day just passed, and while we loved the sweet cards and breakfast in bed (burnt toast and all), there’s something we don’t talk about enough—our relationship with money. In this episode, we’re getting honest about what it’s really like to manage money as a mom. From the lessons we absorbed as kids to the juggling act we pull off every day—this one’s for the moms doing their best with what they’ve got (and making it stretch like magic). I consider myself a bit of an expert on this topi...

In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, Carla gets real about the financial truths no one tells you — the stuff that hits harder than generic advice ever could. We’re diving into the behind-the-scenes of home ownership, lifestyle inflation, career decisions, family planning, and what building real wealth actually looks like. Forget cutting lattes or chasing crypto gains. This one’s for anyone doing all the “right” things and still wondering why it feels like it’s not enough. What You’ll Hear Ab...

Ever feel like the second you start dealing with money — especially mortgages or home upgrades — life throws everything at you all at once? Same. In this episode, we talk about that chaotic energy that kicks in when you're trying to make big financial moves, and suddenly your phone breaks, deadlines pile up, and you’re stuck trying to figure it all out on the fly. This conversation was inspired by a real chat with a friend who’s self-employed, just moved into her new home, and is now planning a...

Mortgage Season 2025 is upon us, and it’s anything but ordinary. Rates are high, the market’s unpredictable, and a lot of us are wondering what the next move is. In this episode, we’re chatting about what’s going on in the housing market and what you need to know to make confident decisions—no matter where you’re at. Tune in for some key insights, a few tips, and maybe even some clarity. For more info, visit tandia.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Noti...

We can’t control inflation, global markets, or supply chain issues. But what can we control? Where we shop, what we buy, and where we bank. Canadians are making more conscious choices to support local businesses, buy Canadian-made products, and keep their money where it matters. In this episode, we explore: How small choices—like buying local—create big economic impacts Why credit unions keep money in the community, unlike big banks How choosing where to bank is just as powerful as where you...

Scammers are getting smarter, and package delivery scams are on the rise. With online shopping now part of everyday life, fraudsters are exploiting our routines—sending fake tracking notices, phishing for personal info, and preying on urgency. In this episode, we’ll break down: How package scams work & why they’re so effective Why fraud has skyrocketed in the last decade Simple ways to stay aware without living in fear March is Fraud Awareness Month, but staying vigilant is a year-round eff...

Scammers are getting smarter—and more manipulative. Imagine getting a call from a loved one in distress, begging for help. Your instincts tell you to act fast, but what if it’s not really them? This episode dives into the world of grandparent scams, a deceptive trick designed to prey on emotions and urgency. We’ll cover: How fraudsters make their scams sound so convincing The red flags to watch for before sending money. Why seniors are often targeted and how to protect them. Steps to take i...

Scammers are getting high tech with deepfakes—those AI-generated videos and audio that look and sound like the real deal. Whether it’s a fake emergency call from a loved one or a phony business request from your boss, these scams are designed to catch you off guard. We’ll break down how deepfake scams work, share tips on how to spot the red flags, and show you how to stay one step ahead of the bad guys. Pro Tip: If your boss suddenly asks for money over a video call, it’s probably a scam or may...

Fraud is everywhere—like glitter after a craft project. It sticks, spreads, and is nearly impossible to clean up. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, we’re exposing the sneaky tricks scammers use and how you can shut them down before they even start. From phishing emails to too-good-to-be-true investment schemes, we’ll help you stay sharp, skeptical, and scam-proof. What’s Inside: The latest fraud tactics and how to spot them Simple ways to protect you...

In today’s episode, we’re talking about debt – yep, that sneaky cycle that’s all too easy to get stuck in. Whether it’s the rising costs of everything or just feeling like you're barely keeping up, you’re not alone. So many Canadians are in the same boat, but here’s the thing: debt doesn’t define you, and you can totally break free. We’ll chat about how to recognize when you're stuck in the “debt loop,” why it’s so important to stop the shame and blame game, and how to start shifting your minds...

The world may feel like it’s constantly changing, but your financial future is still in your hands. In this episode, Carla breaks down how to take control in a world of uncertainty, using the 5-Second Rule to make quick, confident decisions—even when the headlines are overwhelming. From tackling inflation to finding balance in your spending, we explore practical, no-nonsense tips for navigating the ups and downs of 2025. Ready to feel more in control of your finances? Tune in for actionable advi...

Welcome back to Tandia Talks Money, where we make finances fun and easy to understand! In today’s episode, your trusty money guide, Carla, breaks down one of the least exciting but most impactful topics: tariffs. Sure, it sounds like something straight out of a political debate, but tariffs affect your wallet more than you might think. Whether you're in Canada or the U.S., tariffs are impacting your prices, job security, and economic growth—whether you realize it or not. So what exactly are tar...

In this episode of Tandia Talks Money, Carla, explains how RRSPs and TFSAs can be your financial BFFs. These accounts might sound fancy, but they’re really just smart, tax-friendly places to stash your money. Whether you’re saving for retirement or a vacation, getting started now means future-you will be thanking you—probably from a beach. We cover: Why January and February are perfect for getting your contributions in check. How RRSPs lower your tax bill now while growing your savings. The ...

Ah, the sweet nostalgia of rotary phones—each digit clicking away as you patiently dialled, only to misdial and start all over again. Sound familiar? Managing your finances can feel a lot like that. But here’s the thing: just like dialling a landline, it’s all about slowing down and taking things one step at a time. In this episode, we’re talking about: How financial stress can mess with your mental health (and vice versa). Breaking out of the money stress cycle—no more endless loops. Why si...

New year, same you—and that’s more than enough. This episode is all about striking the perfect balance between enjoying life’s little splurges (because, yes, you deserve them) and keeping your budget intact. We’re breaking down: Why January doesn’t need a “new you.” How to treat yourself without wrecking your wallet. The magic of a guilt-free splurge budget. It’s not about reinventing the wheel—it’s about small tweaks that make life better. You already know what works for you; we’re just he...

The holiday season is fast approaching, and the pressure of last-minute shopping and gift-giving can be overwhelming. In this episode, we share a simple, one-week plan to help you tackle the holidays without stress. From thoughtful gift ideas to staying on budget, we provide tips for finding the perfect presents, managing your finances, and even getting a head start on next year’s holiday prep. We cover practical ideas for Secret Santa gifts, teacher and colleague presents, and hostess gifts, a...

'Tis the season of twinkling lights, holiday cheer—and sneaky scammers trying to steal your joy (and your money). This episode covers the top fraud schemes to watch out for this festive season, from fake online shops to phishing emails disguised as delivery notices. Whether it’s spotting a phantom sale or shutting down a fake charity plea, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead of the Grinches lurking in cyberspace. Bonus Gift: Learn how to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your holida...