Two Girls Investing Podcast

In this episode, we discuss money mindset and avoiding unnecessary spending by maintaining what you already own, sharing examples and proposing a weekend challenge to refurbish or repair before buying new and to consider the savings and potential investing impact over time.

We then explain why “financial advisor” is confusing in Canada, covering common designations (CFP, CFA, and bank-based PFPs), the importance of whether an advisor is a fiduciary, and how product restrictions can steer clients toward higher-fee mutual funds instead of lower-fee ETFs.

We outline key questions to ask advisors: credentials and registrations, whether reco...

Welcome back to Two Girls Investing Friday! This week, we catch up on the real costs of career growth and business renovations before diving into the foundational steps of investing. If you've ever moved money into a TFSA or RRSP but aren't sure what to do next, this episode will save you from missing out on serious compound growth. This episode covers the hidden costs of career growth and DIY business renovations, plus a beginner-friendly breakdown of what a brokerage is. We also reveal the massive $500k mistake Canadians make by leaving cash uninvested in their TFSA and how...

.We open this episode tackling the current reality of Canadian grocery prices, breaking down a $375 Loblaws bill and sharing aggressive, practical strategies to cut your food budget, from leveraging the Flipp app at Superstore to the forgotten ROI of a pantry audit. We then transition into the core financial safety net: the emergency fund. We explain exactly how to calculate your target number based on personal risk factors like job stability, single versus dual income households, and renting versus owning. Finally, we expose the danger of cash hoarding, why overfunding your savings account actively loses you money to inflation...

n this episode, we tackle the unglamorous side of homeownership, from the sheer sticker shock of premium paint to the frustrating reality of DIY door handle replacements. Shifting from renovations to wealth building, we break down exactly what we’d do differently if we started investing today. We cover how to strategically hold high-interest savings inside a TFSA to shield your money from taxes, the core flexibility differences between a TFSA and an RRSP, and why keeping a clean ETF portfolio across both accounts is the ultimate play. Most importantly, we highlight why women historically outperform in the stock ma...

In this episode, we (Jess and Colleen) break down the most costly mistakes beginner investors make and how to build a clean, straightforward portfolio today without the noise. Before getting into portfolio pitfalls, we share a quick laugh over local community Facebook drama and break down why switching to the Wealthsimple 2% cash back card beats complicated big-bank points systems. Then, we get honest about where first-time investors lose real money: high MER bank mutual funds, falling for internet hype, accidental ETF duplication, and gambling on penny stocks. Learn why simplifying your holdings into diversified, low-cost ETFs and mastering the...

After an unplanned couple-month summer break due to busy schedules, the hosts return, share plans to improve their recording setup, release weekly episodes, seek sponsors, and eventually create courses and educational content for Canadian women. They discuss recent “frivolous” spending they don’t regret. They then outline what they would do if they were starting investing from scratch at 25 in Canada earning $65–70K with $5K saved, $15K student debt, and no investments. Each host shares what they would do and they highlight what they would do the same and what the differences are. They tease a next episode on investin...

In this TGIF (Two Girls Investing Friday) episode, Jess & Colleen catch up on Jess’s music studio recording process. They then explain private equity by contrasting private vs. public companies, using examples like Dragon’s Den and startup investors, and describe how everyday investors can access private equity indirectly by buying publicly traded private equity firms or ETFs that hold them, noting higher potential returns but higher risk and suggesting it as a small, advanced allocation. They answer a question about investing as a single mom by emphasizing a strong foundation including an emergency fund and paying off high-interest debt...

Jess & Colleen discuss unexpected “hidden costs” in investing, homeownership, and business operations. Jess shares surprises from a newly purchased up/down duplex rental property, including an unfinished backyard, choosing gravel over grass to reduce tenant maintenance, and contractor quotes for wood privacy fence and gravel. Colleen shares hidden business costs, moving from manual Excel payroll calculations to scheduling/time-tracking and payroll platforms costing about $70–$80 per month to save time and reduce errors. The episode explains Canada’s First Home Savings Account (FHSA): contributions reduce taxable income like an RRSP, withdrawals are tax-free for a first-time primary home purchase without repaymen...

Jess and Colleen discuss balancing summer adventures with finances, praising Jess’s discipline after a big Africa trip and her plan to do mostly local activities in Yukon, with only a short, costly trip to Haines, Alaska, while saving vacation money for winter travel. They compare this delayed-gratification approach with the other host’s summer expenses for children, including costly camps ($400–$600 per child per week) and $1,500 in activity fees, noting the childcare challenges for working parents. They share listener comments about the podcast’s global reach and Canadian focus, then answer a question from Kelsey about what to do after ma...

Jess and Colleen, hosts of TGIF, Two Girls Investing Friday share a personal update about Jess recording original music in a studio for the first time, then continue their investing discussion from the prior episode by outlining what you can hold inside registered accounts like a TFSA, RRSP, and FHSA (and also non-registered accounts): stocks, bonds, ETFs (including all-in-one stock/bond ETFs), high-interest savings accounts, GICs, and REITs that can pay monthly distributions. Colleen explains ETFs using a fruit analogy to highlight diversification and reduced risk versus individual stocks. They also clarify how tickers work, including suffixes like “.U” for...

In this episode of TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday, Jess and Colleen catch up and share some massive weekly wins! One paid off a huge chunk of personal debt in about three months by focusing on lowering credit utilization and tackling higher-interest balances, while the other successfully claimed airfare compensation after an overnight delay (pro-tip: delays over three hours may qualify!).

They then walk through setting up automated, recurring investments in a Wealthsimple RRSP to help reduce taxable income, explaining ETFs and key index concepts along the way. Using examples like VFV (Vanguard S&P 500 ETF), VDY...

Jess hosts TGIF solo while Colleen is away and answers a listener question from Pam about using Wealthsimple and whether to invest through a TFSA or RRSP. She explains Wealthsimple as a Canadian fintech offering chequing and investing accounts, and reviews three investing approaches: traditional financial advisors, robo-advisors, and self-directed investing, emphasizing how higher fees can significantly reduce long-term returns. Jess breaks down how TFSAs work and how RRSPs differ. She shares a common guideline of using $50,000 income to help decide, notes many people use a hybrid approach, clarifies RRSP withdrawal options including the Lifelong Learning Plan and First-Time...

Jess and Colleen catch up on busy family schedules and rising costs, then discuss tax surprises when owning businesses, prompting plans to calculate and set aside amounts monthly and contribute more to RRSPs while balancing liquidity. They continue their “money myths” series, emphasizing that budgeting and saving are essential foundations but not enough for wealth and time freedom; investing to outpace inflation and increasing income through job changes, negotiating (especially for women), or side hustles are key accelerators. They also challenge the idea that all debt is bad, distinguishing high-interest consumer debt from productive debt like mortgages or business loan...

In this TGIF (Two Girls Investing Friday) episode, Jess and Colleen introduce a discussion on common money myths and share a preview of two major ones. First, they debunk the idea that you need to be rich to start investing, noting that fractional shares and dollar-cost averaging make it possible to begin with very small amounts, especially when investing is automated from each paycheck; they also mention the importance of a foundation like paying off high-interest debt, building an emergency fund, and understanding timelines, while warning that holding large cash balances can lose value to inflation and miss potential...

Jess and Colleen share that their podcast is about sharing their different financial journeys to normalize Canadian women talking about money, reduce isolation through community, and highlight how finances affect stress, mental health, and relationships, noting finances as a leading cause of divorce in Canada and that AI can’t replace real community support. They invite listeners to comment, share wins and stories, download free and paid resources, and suggest ideas for what the community should look like. The episode then returns to beginner investing mistakes: investing without a clear plan, goal, or time horizon; taking too much risk fo...

Jess returns from a short hiatus with updates on her upcoming house purchase, complex tax preparations, and plans to record her music. The conversation shifts to credit card points strategies. Jess explains why she prefers a card with no foreign transaction fees and maximizes value by redeeming points for travel instead of statement credits. Jess and Colleen note the importance of paying off the balance every month. Finally, they tackle common beginner investing mistakes like emotional trading and chasing fast returns through individual stocks. They recommend replacing those mistakes with proven long-term habits: relying on diversified ETFs, dollar-cost averaging...

In this TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday episode, Colleen continues a conversation with guest Jaya while Jess is away, focusing on credit card points strategies. Jaya explains she never carries a credit card balance and emphasizes that welcome offers work best when you pay in full, since interest can erase rewards value. They discuss minimum-spend requirements, typical bonus ranges, and using planned expenses (not extra spending) to earn points, including having spouses apply separately to double welcome bonuses. Jaya shares how she booked a Bora Bora overwater bungalow for five nights for about $738, plus flights using points, and outlines...

Colleen hosts TGIF Fridays without Jess and interviews Jaya, a Yukon-based traveler and mom of four, about using points and miles to reduce travel costs. Jaya emphasizes first understanding the value and redemption options of existing points (e.g., statement credits vs bank travel portals), then choosing cards with category multipliers, and eventually using transferable points via programs like RBC Avion and American Express. She discusses transferring points to airline partners, timing transfers only when ready to book, and using welcome offers by meeting minimum spend without carrying balances. Jaya shares booking a Bora Bora overwater bungalow for $738 for...

In this TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday episode, Jess & Colleen chat about lingering winter weather and concerns about snowmelt flooding. They share embarrassing money stories, including late-night postpartum purchases, which leads into a discussion on how small app charges and forgotten subscriptions can add up. They recommend regularly reviewing phone subscriptions and note that companies may refund accidental renewals. They also discuss saving money through meal planning, highlighting the Mob app that builds grocery lists from selected recipes, and mention online grocery shopping for budget control. Finally, they address recent market volatility tied to disrupted oil supply during a...

In this TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday episode, the hosts discuss cold March weather before diving into mortgages and HELOCs as many Canadian mortgages come up for renewal. They review responsible HELOC uses like debt consolidation, and explain the Smith Maneuver concept of borrowing against growing home equity to invest, noting the risks of borrowing to invest if markets decline and the need to repay the HELOC. They also cover how investment-loan interest can be tax deductible in Canada when investing in a non-registered account, and mention rising (but still low) title/property fraud where having a HELOC lien...

In this TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday episode, Jess and Colleen discuss building wealth without jargon by focusing on diversification and how home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) fit into mortgage and debt strategy. They explain why a diversified portfolio helps manage risk, using a “stiletto vs. snowshoe” analogy, and Jess shares her own mix: mostly stock ETFs across the US, Canada, and global markets, plus some high-dividend ETFs, a small allocation to bonds and gold (via a gold ETF), and an emergency fund in a high-interest savings account, all held on Wealthsimple due to low fees. They define key...

In this TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday episode, Colleen & Jess continue their real estate series by focusing on how to access a down payment for rental properties that typically require 20% down. They share personal money wins and lessons about resisting unnecessary purchases, including returning clothes and missing an electronics return window. Jess explains how profits from selling a renovated Calgary home became invested in her TFSA/RRSP, grew over about six years to $60,000 with continued monthly contributions, and helped fund a 20% down payment on an Airbnb rental alongside her husband. For a second property, she describes saving again and...

The hosts, Jess and Colleen, of TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday discuss actionable ways to start investing in real estate, focusing first on house hacking—buying a primary residence (including duplexes, triplexes, or suites) and renting part of it to help cover the mortgage—highlighting access to lower down payments (5% up to $500,000 and 10% up to $1,000,000), lower interest rates, and the rule to live in the home for a year. They share alternative strategies for saving a down payment, like house sitting or living with family, and cover renovations as “sweat equity.” They compare primary residences versus rentals, explaining capital gains ta...

In this TGIF episode of Two Girls Investing, Jess & Colleen draw parallels between Olympic progression and the investing mindset. Using their backgrounds as figure skaters, they highlight athletes like 42-year-old Deanna Stellato-Dudek to prove that it’s never too late to start, whether in sports or finance.

Key Highlights:

In this episode of 'TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday,' Jess and Colleen dive into personal finance strategies with a focus on the everyday choices that can impact financial health. They begin with a light-hearted chat about balancing life's small luxuries, like coffee outings, with broader financial goals. The conversation then transitions into detailed discussions on saving on taxes, the benefits and differences between RRSPs and TFSAs, and strategies for doing taxes either independently or with professional help. The episode wraps up with a teaser for their next discussion on real estate investing, inviting listeners to contribute their questions...

In this episode of TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday, the hosts return from a brief hiatus during which one of them visited Kenya. They share details about the mesmerizing safari and coastal experiences in Kenya, discussing the cost implications of currency. They then pivot to discuss business ventures, with Colleen detailing her journey of turning her love for shopping into a successful subscription box business supporting Canadian small businesses. Jess shares insights on running an Airbnb, including the tax benefits and strategic expense tracking to minimize taxable income. They conclude by teasing the next episode, which will focus on...

In this episode of TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday, Jess and Colleen break down the fundamentals of budgeting and saving for a major trip, as Jess prepares for her upcoming visit to Kenya. They discuss the costs involved, including flights, safari expenses, and accommodations, and share strategies for saving and budgeting over a lengthy period. Additionally, Jess and Colleen touch on topics like delayed gratification, the importance of financial planning with a partner, and balancing immediate desires with long-term financial goals. The episode closes with a teaser for their next discussion on money myths and how Colleen turned her...

In this episode of TGIF - Two Girls Investing Friday, Jess & Colleen discuss their personal experiences with extreme winter conditions in the Yukon and the financial implications it carries. They talk about the increased costs related to vehicle maintenance, fuel, and children's winter gear, providing a real-world perspective on unexpected expenses. The conversation also delves into the concept of the value of a dollar, highlighting how saving and investing money can compound over time, significantly increasing its potential value. The hosts share practical tips on how to shift one's mindset towards more mindful spending and the long-term benefits of...

In this episode of TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday, hosts Jess and Colleen catch up after a holiday break and delve into their personal experiences of surviving an intense cold spell in the Yukon with temperatures plunging between -45 to -50°C. They discuss the practical and financial challenges encountered, including soaring heating bills, increased gas usage, and the difficulties in maintaining vehicles and homes during extreme weather conditions. Reflecting on their financial journeys in 2025, they highlight their investment successes, the impact of controlled spending, and share thoughts on improving financial habits in the new year. Tune in for a...

In this episode of TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday, the hosts discuss practical and relatable strategies for saving money during the Christmas season, from splitting gift costs with family members to utilizing local recycling programs for gift certificates. They also detail how to build a diversified portfolio, emphasizing the importance of considering timeline, goals, and risk tolerance. Listeners will learn about the balance between stocks and bonds in a portfolio, usage of all-in-one ETFs, and helpful tools like RoboAdvisors for assessing risk tolerance. The episode wraps up with a reminder to stay financially savvy and prepare for the upcoming...

In this episode of Two Girls Investing Fridays, hosts Jess & Colleen delve into the concepts of bull and bear markets, explaining what they are and how they impact investing strategies. The hosts discuss their personal experiences with the fluctuating market, offering practical advice on how to maintain investments during downturns and the importance of dollar-cost averaging. Alongside market talk, they touch on seasonal changes in the Yukon, Black Friday shopping tips, and staying financially mindful during the holiday season. This episode aims to demystify financial jargon and empower listeners with actionable investing knowledge, all while maintaining an easy-going and...

In this episode of TGIF (Two Girls Investing Friday), the hosts dive into the concept of Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIP) and how they can benefit your investment portfolio. They explain how reinvesting dividends can promote compounding growth and provide a buffer during market downturns. The hosts also share personal tips on affordable vacation strategies, like splitting costs with friends for a cabin getaway, and practical meal-planning hacks to avoid frequenting DoorDash. Additionally, they address listener questions about the benefits and drawbacks of DRIP and discuss the implications of market corrections in future episodes. Tune in for a candid, jargon-free...

In this episode of TGIF (Two Girls Investing Friday), the hosts Jess and Colleen explore practical and often overlooked ways to save money in everyday life. They share personal stories, such as using apps for discounts on meals and shopping at discount stores like The Last Hunt and Poshmark. Beyond these tips, they delve into the world of interest rates, explaining how they are set and the role they play in both borrowing and saving. This episode aims to demystify financial concepts and provide listeners with strategies to better manage their money.

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In this episode of TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday, hosts Jess and Colleen discuss their personal budgeting methods in response to a listener's question. Jess shares her experience with budgeting apps like Mint and Pocket Guard, emphasizing the benefits of automation and categorization. Colleen, on the other hand, prefers using an Excel spreadsheet to track expenses and debts manually. They explore the importance of understanding the value of money and how small financial decisions impact long-term financial goals. The episode also introduces the basics of bonds as an investment, comparing them to GICs and detailing their role in a...

In this episode of TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday, hosts Jess and Colleen discuss the frustrations of Facebook Marketplace and other money-saving methods they disdain but sometimes use. They explain how dealing with online marketplaces and calling insurance providers for better rates can be tedious but financially rewarding. Then, they dive into understanding dividends, discussing the benefits of earning dividend payments from investments, and the difference between growth and value stocks. They also touch on setting up self-directed investing accounts and avoiding currency conversion fees when investing in U.S. stocks. The episode wraps up with a promise to...

In this episode of TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday, Jess and Colleen dive into the differences between day trading and passive long-term investing. They discuss personal financial wins and setbacks, and the impact of fees over time. Key topics include the power of dollar cost averaging and the benefits of self-directed investing. They also emphasize the importance of time in the market and debunk the get-rich-quick mentality often associated with day trading. Tune in for relatable, jargon-free advice on growing your wealth and confidence in the Canadian financial landscape.

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In this episode of TGIF Two Girls Investing Friday, hosts Jess and Colleen discuss practical ways they saved money this week, such as working out at home and preparing cost-effective meals. They delve into the differences between two key Canadian investment accounts: the RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) and the TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account). The episode covers how each account works, tax implications, and strategies for deciding which to invest in based on your income. They also touch on taking loans from your RRSP for education and home buying, and offer tips to maximize tax returns.

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Welcome to TGIF (Two Girls Investing Friday), where Jess and Colleen break down financial concepts in a fun and accessible way. This episode dives into the ins and outs of TFSAs, teaching you how to use this tool to build wealth. They answer a listener question about using Wealthsimple for investments, discuss minimizing bank fees, and highlight the importance of diversification in investing. They also touch on the significance of talking about money with friends and overcoming traditional mindsets. Join them for real strategies to grow your wealth without the financial jargon.

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Jess and Colleen, the hosts of Two Girls Investing Friday, share updates on their financial experiences. Jess discusses the challenges of attending a work conference and celebrates a significant investment milestone, while colleen talks about managing her store and personal finances. The episode covers practical tips on saving money, such as utilizing credit card insurance for car rentals and preparing simple lunches at work. They delve into the basics of investing, explaining key concepts like stocks, ETFs and mutual funds. The show aims to demystify financial topics and encourage listeners to take control of their financial future.

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Navigating Wins, Setbacks, and Debt Payoff Strategies. Join Jess and Colleen in episode three as they celebrate the successful launch of their podcast, share personal updates, and dive into the world of debt payoff strategies. They discuss the pros and cons of renting vs. home ownership, detailing Jess’s purchase of a second rental income property and Colleen’s experience with significant home renovations. They introduce and explain debt payoff methods like the avalanche and snowball strategies, and touch on the importance of budgeting and avoiding overspending. Additionally, they tease upcoming discussions on investment terminologies. This episode feels like grab...