Bare With Us

Finding Purpose in Retirement: Going Beyond the Numbers

In this episode of Bare With Us, we explore a side of retirement planning that rarely gets the attention it deserves—everything beyond the financial projections. Today’s retirees are navigating a new reality, often spending 10 to 30 years in retirement, and many are discovering that it’s not the money that’s the hardest part…it’s finding purpose. Drawing from their firsthand experience helping dozens of clients transition into retirement, Scott and Mike share what they’ve observed over the years—where retirees tend to thrive, where they struggle, and the patterns that consistently show up among those who enjoy the most successful retirements. Along with Finn McKay, they discuss the hidden losses people face when they leave the workforce, including the loss of structure, community, identity, and daily purpose. We also explore how physical and mental health play a crucial role in keeping your financial plan meaningful—and how maintaining well-being can help ensure the retirement you planned for is one you can actually enjoy. This thoughtful conversation goes far beyond spreadsheets and savings projections. It’s about designing a retirement that’s rich in purpose, connection, and quality of life.

The Best Financial Practices To Set Yourself Up For Success

In this episode of Bare With Us, we explore the essential financial decisions that we believe everyone should be making—or at least seriously considering—throughout their life. Starting with young adults entering the workforce and progressing through various life stages, we highlight the habits and strategies that form the backbone of long-term financial success. Join Mike Robinson, Scott Richardson, and Finn McKay as they discuss: * Understanding where your money goes * Spending less than you earn * Building savings and emergency funds * Choosing the right investment vehicles (RRSPs, TFSAs, RESPs, FHSAs, and more) * Protecting your income with long-term disability insurance * Planning for the unexpected with life insurance * And—critically—developing an investment strategy that aligns with your goals This episode emphasizes that while financial plans are personal, some principles are universal. Whether you're just starting out or reassessing your financial future, these non-negotiables are key to building a resilient and effective financial life.

Active vs Passive Management In Investing

In this episode of Bare With Us, we dive deep into one of the most debated topics in investing: passive vs. active strategies. We begin by breaking down what an index actually is, how different indices are constructed, and why not all indices are created equal. From there, we explore some of the lesser-known mechanics behind passive investing—what’s happening behind the scenes that most investors never see. Finn shares his perspective as an active Portfolio Manager, explaining how active managers aim to add value, especially during periods of market stress. Mike and Scott weigh in on the merits of both approaches, highlighting how financial advisors can thoughtfully use either strategy to serve different client needs. Key takeaways from this episode: * Index construction matters—and it’s not always as passive as it seems. * Active market participants can add meaningful value, particularly in volatile or complex markets. * There’s no one-size-fits-all solution: the right strategy depends on your goals, behavior, and financial plan. * Investor discipline and behavior are often more important than the strategy itself. Whether you're a DIY investor or working with an advisor, this episode will help you think more critically about how your investments are managed—and why that matters.

Tariffs, Trade, and Turbulence: Navigating Market Volatility - Part 2

Tariffs, Trade, and Turbulence: Navigating Market Volatility - Part 2 In this episode of Bare With Us, we dive into the recent market volatility sparked by the U.S. government's reintroduction of tariffs. For nearly 40 years, tariffs haven’t played a major role in economic policy—but that’s changing, and so is the way we think and feel about the U.S.–Canada trade relationship. Join Mike Robinson, Scott Richardson, and Finn McKay as we explore what tariffs are, why they’re back in the spotlight, and how they’re influencing investor sentiment. From there, we examine the issue from two key perspectives: how a Portfolio Manager interprets and responds to volatility, and how financial planners assess whether these changes warrant adjustments to financial plans or asset allocations. This unstructured, thoughtful conversation goes beyond the headlines to help you understand what’s really happening—and what it might mean for your investments and long-term strategy.

Tariffs, Trade, and Turbulence: Navigating Market Volatility - Part 1

Tariffs, Trade, and Turbulence: Navigating Market Volatility In this episode of Bare With Us, we dive into the recent market volatility sparked by the U.S. government's reintroduction of tariffs. For nearly 40 years, tariffs haven’t played a major role in economic policy—but that’s changing, and so is the way we think and feel about the U.S.–Canada trade relationship. Join Mike Robinson, Scott Richardson, and Finn McKay as we explore what tariffs are, why they’re back in the spotlight, and how they’re influencing investor sentiment. From there, we examine the issue from two key perspectives: how a Portfolio Manager interprets and responds to volatility, and how financial planners assess whether these changes warrant adjustments to financial plans or asset allocations. This unstructured, thoughtful conversation goes beyond the headlines to help you understand what’s really happening—and what it might mean for your investments and long-term strategy.