Two Girls Investing Podcast

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 may add protection. They describe an equity mortgage that automatically makes paid-down principal available via HELOC for uses like rental property down payments, then define MER (management expense ratio), contrasting high-fee mutual funds with lower-fee ETFs and how fees erode long-term returns.00:00 Welcome to TGIF00:34 March Weather Catchup01:49 Mortgage Renewals and HELOCs02:50 Smith Maneuver Explained05:11 Risks of Borrowing to Invest06:11 Tax Deductible HELOC Interest07:16 Title Fraud and HELOC Protection09:30 Equity Mortgage for Rentals11:52 MER Investing Fees 10116:04 Mutual Funds vs ETFs Fees20:01 Next Episode and Wrap Up

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 terms like stocks, ETFs, bonds, and bond maturity dates, including all-in-one portfolio ETFs. They also cover HELOCs as secured credit with lower rates, best used for debt consolidation or value-adding renovations rather than depreciating purchases, and preview a future episode on debt payoff and credit score strategies.00:00 Welcome to TGIF00:34 Friday Money Mindset01:58 Why Diversify02:34 Snowshoe vs Stiletto04:24 Jess Portfolio Breakdown05:15 Platforms and Fees06:37 ETFs Stocks Bonds Explained09:15 All in One ETFs11:30 Individual Stocks and Gold13:08 Start Small Keep Learning14:46 HELOC Basics16:39 Using HELOCs Wisely21:32 Debt Payoff Updates Next22:50 Wrap Up and Follow

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 using refinancing to pull equity from the existing rental, outlining how lenders may allow borrowing up to 80% of an appraised value, how payments and interest rates affect the decision, and that proceeds are tax-free but accrue interest. They also discuss Whitehorse’s low vacancy rate, high rents, and choosing to rent below market to avoid gouging, then tease a future episode on portfolio diversification.00:00 Welcome to TGIF00:34 Real Estate Series Setup01:10 Money Win Returns02:41 Return Window Lessons03:50 Mindset on New Outfits05:42 Down Payment Story08:15 Using Equity Refinance09:11 Refinance Math Explained11:06 Payments and Rate Risks14:12 Rental Market Ethics15:57 Impact and Money Mindset18:33 Wrap Up and Next Episode

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 tax on rental property sales, rules discouraging quick flips, and how taxes apply when a property is partly rented over time. They also discuss short-term rental restrictions in Whitehorse and using RRSP contributions and write-offs to reduce taxable rental income.Sign up for our monthly newsletter and see our other resources HereConnect with us on:Tik TokInstagram00:00 Welcome to TGIF00:34 Real Estate Game Plan00:58 House Hacking Basics04:41 Saving for a Down Payment06:47 Renovate and Flip Lessons09:22 Rentals and Capital Gains12:34 Airbnb Rules and Balance15:36 Rental Income Tax Strategy18:06 Wrap Up and Next Episode

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:Celebrating Wins: The hosts share a listener's success in paying off a car and hitting financial milestones early, emphasizing the power of small victories.Credit & Debt: Expert tips on managing debt and improving credit utilization (aiming for under 50%) to prep for mortgage renewals and negotiations.Real Estate Basics: A guide to down payments (5% for primary vs. 20% for rentals) and a candid debate on whether a primary home is a "true" investment given taxes, maintenance, and interest.Market Insights: How real estate serves as a diversification tool, the impact of the 2008 financial crisis, and the roles of character and integrity in the financial world.The episode wraps with a look at real estate as a "next step" after maxing out TFSAs and RRSPs. For more, follow the show on Spotify, TikTok, and Instagram.0:00 Welcome to TGIF: Investing Made Simple (Not Financial Advice)00:34 Today’s Agenda: Olympics, Listener Win, and a Real Estate Series01:08 How We Met: Competitive Figure Skating Rivals Turned Friends01:29 Olympic Figure Skating Glow-Up: Quads, Quad Axels & New Scoring Tricks03:18 Age Isn’t a Limit: The 42-Year-Old Olympian That Changed Our Mindset07:35 From Athletic Longevity to Money Mindset: It’s Never Too Late to Invest08:16 Listener Win of the Week: Paying Off a Car + Hitting a Big Goal Early08:53 Celebrate the Small Money Wins: Debt Progress, Mindset & Accountability10:47 Boosting Your Credit Score Before Mortgage Renewal11:21 Debt Payoff Strategy Shift: Getting Balances Under 50%12:06 Real Estate Basics: Personal Home vs. Rental Property Rules13:14 Is Your Primary Residence Really an Investment?14:40 Hidden Costs of Homeownership (Taxes, Insurance, Maintenance)15:58 Jess’s Real Estate Path: Renting + Airbnb + New Build Rentals16:30 Why Rental Properties Need 20% Down (and Higher Rates)17:05 Real Estate as Portfolio Diversification After TFSA/RRSP19:24 Do Real Estate and Stocks Crash Together21:01 2008 Crisis Explained: Subprime Mortgages & Mortgage-Backed Securities21:59 Money, Greed, and Character: The Ethics Behind Financial Decisions23:31 Wrap-Up: Listener Qs, Where to Comment, and Next Episode Teaser

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 on the topic.00:00 Welcome to TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday00:36 Personal Finance and Lifestyle Choices00:54 Moments of Magic: Finding Joy in Everyday Expenses03:49 Personal Finance is Personal08:17 Diving into Taxes: Tips and Tools13:04 Exploring TurboTax and Wealthsimpe for Taxes13:36 Rental Income and Taxes15:18 Tax-Saving Strategies and Credits16:43 Understanding RRSPs and TFSAs for Tax Benefits20:45 Claiming Work-Related Expenses and Union Fees25:28 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Real Estate Episode

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 tax strategies.00:00 Welcome to TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday00:34 Jess's Kenya Adventure04:49 Turning Shopping into a Business07:48 Financial Benefits of Running a Business10:45 Maximizing Inventory Efficiency11:03 Paying Yourself and Business Growth11:53 Personal Finance Strategies14:46 Understanding High-Interest Savings Accounts15:05 Monthly Interest Myths18:17 Tax Benefits of Owning Rental Properties21:34 Concluding Thoughts and Next Episode Teaser

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 love for shopping into a business.00:00 Welcome to TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday00:34 Jess's Trip to Kenya: Planning and Budgeting02:41 Safari Adventures and Costs09:00 Saving Strategies and Financial Discipline12:25 Balancing Financial Goals and Enjoyment17:28 Upcoming Episodes and Listener Engagement18:12 Closing Remarks and Social Media

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 investing. As a teaser for the next episode, one of the co-hosts promises to reveal the detailed costs of an upcoming trip to Kenya and how she budgeted for it.00:00 Introduction to TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday00:34 Surviving the Yukon Cold: Vehicle Challenges01:55 Fuel and Maintenance Costs in Extreme Cold04:57 Winter Gear and Family Expenses11:09 Bus Cancellations and Winter Challenges12:53 Financial Planning for Unpredictable Expenses14:09 The Value of a Dollar16:34 $50 Spent vs Invested18:40 Make Your Money Work For You 21:23 Share With Us Your Win of The WeekSign up for our monthly newsletter and see our other resources HereConnect with us on:Tik TokInstagram

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 candid conversation about managing finances in challenging environments and insights for a prosperous 2026.00:00 Welcome to TGIF: Two Girls Investing Friday00:34 Catching Up After the Holidays00:58 Surviving the Harsh Winter05:44 Financial Implications of Extreme Cold11:47 Reflecting on the Past Year17:43 Wrapping Up and Looking AheadSign up for our monthly newsletter and see our other resources HereConnect with us on:Tik TokInstagram

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 year.Sign up for our monthly newsletter and see our other resources HereConnect with us on:Tik TokInstagram

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 relatable atmosphere.Sign up for our monthly newsletter and see our other resources HereConnect with us on:Tik TokInstagram

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 conversation aimed at making finance approachable for everyone.Sign up for our monthly newsletter and see our other resources HereConnect with us on:Tik TokInstagram