Category: Financial Planning
Is Life Insurance Right for You? (Ep. 20)

Is Life Insurance Right for You? (Ep. 20)

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What happens when life insurance becomes less of a chore and more of a strategic benefit?

In this episode, Aaron Buchner takes the mystery and confusion out of life insurance. If you’ve ever wondered if life insurance is a must-have or a misused financial tool, this episode is a must-listen. Aaron tackles common misconceptions and explores who truly benefits from having a policy.

Aaron discusses: 

  • (02:23) The essential criteria for determining who needs life insurance
  • (04:53) Common types of insurance and when each is appropriate
  • (11:57) Missteps to avoid when purchasing policies, and how to amend them
  • (17:10) The role of permanent insurance in long-term planning
  • And more

Tune in and make your journey through the world of life insurance as prick-free as possible.

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

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Prick-Free Budgeting Part 2: How to Prioritize Your Spending (Ep. 19)

Prick-Free Budgeting Part 2: How to Prioritize Your Spending (Ep. 19)

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Are you ready to ditch the financial stress and learn how to have fun while budgeting?

In this episode, Aaron Buchner tackles the age-old problem of budgeting. Look out as he sets out on part two of our budgeting series. Aaron digs into practical approaches to creating a budget that empowers you rather than drains you, while keeping it fun.

Aaron discusses: 

  • (05:04) Avoiding spreadsheet overload and keeping things simple
  • (08:45) How prioritizing what really matters can transform your financial life
  • (11:25) Balancing present enjoyment with future financial goals in a way that aligns with who you want to be
  • (14:32) Overcoming the habit of negative spending and embracing positive financial habits
  • (21:22) Exploring alternative fun and rewarding ways to budget effectively
  • And more

Tune in and learn how to take charge of your financial future without losing sight of living life now.

Resources:

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

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Prick-Free Budgeting: Ditch the Stress, Keep the Fun (Ep. 18)

Prick-Free Budgeting: Ditch the Stress, Keep the Fun (Ep. 18)

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Are you tired of looking at your finances and feeling more stressed than when you started? What if budgeting didn’t have to be tedious or restrictive?

In this episode, Aaron Buchner dives deep into the world of budgeting with a refreshing twist. He tosses out the traditional rulebook and discusses how understanding and prioritizing your expenses can unlock a life where financial planning doesn’t mean living on spreadsheets! Aaron unravels the mystery behind the dreaded “B word” – budgeting – and how it can be a tool for freedom rather than limitations.

Aaron discusses: 

  • (07:36) Why budgeting doesn’t mean cutting out all fun
  • (10:24) The “ad-hoc” budget approach and why it fails
  • (13:35) Guardrails over strict budgets: flexibility in spending
  • (15:09) Smart shopping tips for family savings
  • (18:51) Busting the myths around fixed vs. variable expenses
  • And more

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

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The Benefits of Critical Illness Insurance (Ep. 17)

The Benefits of Critical Illness Insurance (Ep. 17)

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Why should you consider critical illness insurance as a part of your financial strategy? 

In this episode, Aaron Buchner tackles the often-overlooked topic of critical illness insurance. He explains why this form of insurance is not just an ‘extra’ but a crucial part of securing your financial future. His discussion explores the impact of unexpected medical expenses, especially for Canadians who believe healthcare is entirely covered.

Aaron discusses: 

  • (02:32) Why Canadian healthcare isn’t entirely “free”
  • (04:22) What critical illness insurance actually covers
  • (08:01) The financial impact of using retirement savings to cover medical expenses
  • (09:48) Comparing investing versus insurance costs for peace of mind
  • (18:53) Balancing financial planning with current lifestyle needs
  • And more

Tune in to find out how planning for the unexpected can keep you on track toward your dream retirement without compromising your enjoyment of the present.

Resources:

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How Much Are You Paying? Ft. Mark Hansen (Ep. 16)

How Much Are You Paying? Ft. Mark Hansen (Ep. 16)

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Ever wondered how much you’re really paying for financial advice and whether it’s worth it? Dive into this episode as we discuss two key ways advisors get paid and how they shape your financial journey.

In this episode, Aaron Buchner sits down with Mark Hansen, Financial Advisor, Second Comma, to break down the differences between Assets Under Management (AUM) versus Fee-Only planning. They’re not here to proclaim a ‘one size fits all’ solution but to explore how different payment structures can help you meet your goals. Along the way, they share insights on the importance of transparency, the impact of digital transformation on financial planning, and why connecting with the right financial advisor is about much more than just numbers.

Aaron and Mark discuss: 

  • (02:52) Differences between AUM and Fee-Only Models
  • (06:50) Importance of transparency in financial planning
  • (11:19) What you’re actually getting for the money you spending
  • (19:22) Why an advisor’s personality matters
  • (24:52) Should you choose an advisor based on fee structure alone?
  • And more

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Connect with Mark Hansen: 

About our Guest: 

Mark Hansen is the founder of Second Comma, a financial advisory firm based in the United States. As a seasoned financial advisor, Mark specializes in guiding individuals and families who are a few decades away from retirement, typically in their 30s and 40s. His expertise lies in helping younger generations who are beginning to see their wealth accumulate, time constraints grow, and financial responsibilities expand.

Mark is passionate about creating personalized strategies that enable his clients to navigate their journey to retirement confidently and on their preferred timelines. With a commitment to clarity and long-term planning, he empowers families to align their financial goals with their life ambitions.

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Avoiding BS Financial Advice (Ep. 15)

Avoiding BS Financial Advice (Ep. 15)

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Ever wonder if what you see on social media is all smoke and mirrors, especially when it comes to finance? 

In this episode, Aaron Buchner tackles the prevalent myths and ‘BS’ that flood social media about personal finance. He debunks common misconceptions about investment returns and financial planning, emphasizing the importance of personalizing your financial journey rather than comparing it with flashy online benchmarks. Aaron also shares insights on why starting a relationship with a financial advisor early can be beneficial, even before retirement is on the horizon. Tune in for a casual, insightful chat that breaks down financial advice into digestible, relatable terms.

Aaron discusses: 

  • (03:26) Deciphering social media myths about investing
  • (07:09) The real role of investment returns vs. personal goals
  • (12:03) Why everyone, not just retirees, should consider a financial advisor
  • (14:05) Understanding financial advisory fees and structures
  • (18:53) Breaking down age-based investment rules
  • And more

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The Story Behind Cactus and Prick Free Financial Advice with Karine Parthenais – Part 2 (Ep. 14)

The Story Behind Cactus and Prick Free Financial Advice with Karine Parthenais – Part 2 (Ep. 14)

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How did Cactus and “Prick Free” come to life?

In this episode, Aaron Buchner brings back Karine Parthenais from Mellow Brew Marketing for part 2 of their conversation about the creative journey behind their innovative rebranding efforts for Cactus. Together, they delve into the behind-the-scenes magic that birthed the “Prick Free” concept and Cactus’s vibrant identity.

Aaron and Karine discuss: 

  • (01:31) The pivotal moment that sold Aaron on the ‘Prick Free Financial Advice’
  • (02:18) Karine’s knack for capturing the essence of her clients through words
  • (03:20) Navigating client involvement in the branding process
  • (06:31) The balance of pushing boundaries and maintaining compliance
  • (13:55) The thought process behind the unique color palette for Cactus
  • (17:09) Using authentic elements like Aaron’s Converse to convey brand identity
  • And more

Ready to hear how Aaron’s vision and Karine’s wordsmith skills created an unmistakably fresh financial experience? Tune in and find out!

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

Connect with Karine Parthenais: 

About our Guest: 

Karine Parthenais is the dynamic owner of Mellow Brew Marketing, a boutique marketing agency renowned for its tailored approach to business and branding strategies. With nearly 15 years of experience collaborating with business owners, Karine has honed her expertise in building impactful brands that resonate with their target audiences. In addition to her agency work, she is the founder and author of ‘The Work VACAY,’ a community aimed at helping entrepreneurs find balance and alignment in their professional lives. Karine’s passion for empowering businesses shines through in her dedicated approach, making her a sought-after partner for those looking to elevate their brand presence and achieve lasting success.

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The Story Behind Cactus and Prick Free Financial Advice with Karine Parthenais – Part 1 (Ep. 13)

The Story Behind Cactus and Prick Free Financial Advice with Karine Parthenais – Part 1 (Ep. 13)

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Ever wondered how a financial advisor can stand out in the crowded financial industry? What if the key to success is being a little more “left field” than expected? 

In this episode, Aaron Buchner welcomes his first guest, Karine Parthenais from Mellow Brew Marketing, to pull back the curtain on the bold rebrand of Cactus. Find out why Aaron chose to step away from the generic path and embrace a truly unique identity.

Aaron and Karine discuss: 

  • (03:08) The inspiration and process behind the Cactus rebranding journey
  • (08:47) The courage to embrace a unique and authentic brand identity that’s true to who you are
  • (21:36) The creative strategy behind choosing the name “Cactus” and “Prick Free Financial Advice”
  • And more

Join Aaron and Karine in this engaging conversation to see how financial planning can leave the boardroom and become an approachable, enjoyable experience!

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

Connect with Karine Parthenais: 

About our Guest: 

Karine Parthenais is the dynamic owner of Mellow Brew Marketing, a boutique marketing agency renowned for its tailored approach to business and branding strategies. With nearly 15 years of experience collaborating with business owners, Karine has honed her expertise in building impactful brands that resonate with their target audiences. In addition to her agency work, she is the founder and author of ‘The Work VACAY,’ a community aimed at helping entrepreneurs find balance and alignment in their professional lives. Karine’s passion for empowering businesses shines through in her dedicated approach, making her a sought-after partner for those looking to elevate their brand presence and achieve lasting success.

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Don’t Plant Your Finances in Concrete (Ep. 12)

Don’t Plant Your Finances in Concrete (Ep. 12)

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Ever wondered if your financial goals are stuck in a rut, like a cactus trying to grow through concrete?

In this episode, Aaron Buchner dives into the art of prioritizing financial goals and why a solid foundation is critical for success. Through relatable anecdotes and a bit of chaos humor, he highlights the importance of a well-thought-out financial plan, avoiding the trap of ‘mindlessly saving’, and how writing your goals down can change your financial trajectory.

Aaron discusses: 

  • (02:47) Setting financial goals with purpose
  • (05:47) Separating and prioritizing savings for different objectives
  • (15:54) The significance of making vivid financial visions
  • (23:50) Creating unique financial plans for a balanced life enjoyment
  • And more

Feeling ready to make your financial journey less prickly? Tune in and enjoy some laughter while Aaron untangles financial planning.

Resources:

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

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Removing Financial Thorns (Ep. 11)

Removing Financial Thorns (Ep. 11)

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Ever feel like you’ve got a pesky thorn in your side that keeps messing with your financial plans? You’re not alone, and today we’re digging deep into what’s really bothering us when it comes to money and how to deal with it.

In this episode, Aaron Buchner tackles the common yet often overlooked financial “thorns in your side.” Whether you’re just starting out or nearing retirement, these issues seem to affect everyone. Aaron shares insights on doing more than just basic financial planning – it’s about understanding your true financial needs and priorities. From knowing exactly what you’re paying for (and what you get in return) to the importance of honest conversations with loved ones about money, we’re covering it all. Aaron offers practical advice on how to stop flying by the seat of your pants and start making financial choices based on clear goals and priorities.

Aaron discusses: 

  • (01:37) Understanding what you’re really paying for in financial services
  • (06:14) Buckets of saving: how to prioritize and plan your financial goals
  • (10:19) The importance of talking to your partner and family about money
  • (16:12) The critical question: Asking “why?” should be at the heart of your financial decisions
  • And more

Ready to confront your financial thorns? Tune in now!

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

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