The Clear Money Mindset

EP 62 - Tax Update 2026 - Josie Hope

Tax season is almost here, and there are significant changes on the horizon for Canadian taxpayers. In this episode of The Clear Money Mindset, Ben sits down with Josie Hope, CPA, CMA and owner of JH Business Solutions, to break down exactly what you need to know before you file.
From the new "Middle Class Tax Cut" reducing the lowest marginal rate to 14%, to the often-overlooked tax implications of buying and selling precious metals like gold and silver, we cover it all. Josie also shares critical advice for pension holders who might be over-contributing to their RRSPs and explains the latest updates to the Canada Disability Benefit.
In this episode, we cover:
The Middle Class Tax Cut: How the rate reduction from 15% to 14% impacts your take-home pay starting July 2025.
Disability Tax Credit: Updates to the benefit amount (now over $10,000) and how to transfer credits to a supporting family member.
Precious Metals: Why the CRA treats gold and silver as capital assets and the importance of keeping your receipts.
The RRSP Trap: Why having a good pension might mean you should think twice before maxing out your RRSP.
Filing Tips: How to organize your T4s and receipts.

CMM EP 62 - Are You Getting The Most Out Of The RRSP?

Are you confused by financial jargon? Do you know the difference between a stock and an RRSP? In this episode of The Clear Money Mindset, host Ben Davies goes back to basics on the Registered Retirement Savings Plan.
We break down exactly how an RRSP works, why it’s described as a "container" rather than the investment itself, and how it can help you lower your tax bill today while saving for tomorrow.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
A "Container": Why an RRSP isn't an investment itself, but a home for your stocks, bonds, and ETFs.
Tax Hacks: How contributions reduce your taxable income (and might even boost benefits like the Canada Child Benefit).
Strategic Planning: The difference between Individual and Spousal plans and when to use them.
RRSP vs. TFSA: A simple comparison to help you decide where to put your money first.
Hidden Perks: How to use your RRSP to buy your first home or fund your education.
Whether you are rushing to meet the contribution deadline or just starting your financial journey, tune in to ensure you aren't missing out on potential tax savings!

EP 61 - The Benefits Of Charitable Giving

Welcome to The Clear Money Mindset with Ben Davies. In this episode, recorded just before Thanksgiving, we explore the practical and personal benefits of charitable giving—especially how it can positively impact your finances and reduce your income tax in Canada.
Listeners will learn:
Why charitable giving adds purpose to your finances and helps support causes you care about.
How charitable donations can teach children that money isn’t just about personal gain.
The mechanics of Canada’s donation tax credits, including federal and provincial rates, eligibility, and strategies for maximizing your tax benefit.
Special considerations for high-income donors, donations of publicly traded securities, and unique credits for farmers in Ontario.
Practical examples, such as how a $1,000 donation can result in significant tax savings, and tips for carrying forward donations or grouping them with a spouse.
If you’re among the many Canadians who donate to charity but aren’t sure how it helps at tax time, this episode will give you clear, actionable insights to thrive financially while making a difference.

EP 60 - Are You Getting The Most Out Of The TFSA?

In this episode of The Clear Money Mindset, host and Financial Advisor Ben Davies breaks down everything you need to know about the Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA). We cover the basics of what a TFSA is, how contribution limits work, the wide range of investment options available, and common pitfalls to avoid. You’ll also learn practical strategies to maximize your TFSA—whether that’s growing your retirement plan, saving on taxes, or making the most of investment opportunities.
Are you really getting the most out of your TFSA? Tune in to find out.

EP 59 Building A New Home

In this episode of The Clear Money Mindset, we’re talking all things new builds—what makes buying a brand-new home different from purchasing a resale, and what every buyer should know before jumping in. Host Ben Davies is joined by a knowledgeable panel: Alyssa Ismail, Real Estate Agent with Century 21, Sebastian Schmoranz from MSSH Lawyers, and Rob & Sandra Zanet from Indi Mortgages.
We explore key legal differences, financing challenges, hidden costs, and how to navigate builder contracts. From zoning surprises and Tarion warranties to construction loans and mortgage timelines, this episode covers everything buyers should consider before committing to a pre-construction or newly built home in Ontario.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just curious about the process, this episode will help you feel informed and confident when considering a new home build.

EP 58 - Time-Tested Investment Wisdom

In this episode of The Clear Money Mindset, Ben Davies cuts through the noise of market hype, prediction videos, and investment fads to bring you timeless financial principles that have stood the test of time.
You'll learn:
Why starting to save early (even small amounts) is a game-changer
How diversification protects not just your money, but your peace of mind
The dangers of overanalyzing short-term market movements
What ancient wisdom from Solomon can teach us about smart investing today
This episode isn’t about chasing the next big thing—it’s about building a stable, long-term plan that actually works.

Ep.57 - 2025 Real Estate Round Table

In this episode, Ben Davies is joined by Alyssa Ismail from Century 21, Sebastian Schmoranz of MSSH Lawyers, and Rob & Sandra Zanet of Indi Mortgages. They dive into the current real estate market in the Windsor/Essex area, discussing house prices, bidding wars, mortgage rates, and more. Whether you're buying or selling a home, tune in for valuable tips and expert insights to navigate this dynamic market.

EP 56 Legacy Law Your Guide to Estate Planning - Ashley Harmon Pt. 2

Ashley Harmon, an estate and power of attorney lawyer at Hogarth Hermiston Severs LLP, continues her insightful discussion with Ben. Ashley's experience navigating the complexities of trusts and estate planning brings a wealth of knowledge—covering both the successes and pitfalls she’s encountered in her practice. 
In this deep dive, she explores common estate planning issues, including: 
The biggest mistake people make in estate planning. 
Financial indicators that suggest that it’s time to set up a trust. 
Different types of trusts. 
How certain trusts can help bypass probate, maintain privacy, or expedite asset transfers to beneficiaries. 
The potential fee structures associated with trusts. 
Strategies for second marriages—ensuring assets pass to children while providing for a spouse. 
The role of pre-nuptial agreements in estate planning. 
Essential information for those named as a Power of Attorney (POA). 
Joint finances and bank accounts—their pros, cons, and relevance in estate planning. 
This discussion is packed with valuable insights, resources, and practical advice for anyone looking to build a solid estate plan. Don't miss this opportunity to empower yourself with knowledge! 

EP 55 - Legacy & Law: Your Guide to Estate Planning - Ashley Harmon

It’s a new year—a fresh start to improve ourselves and deepen our understanding of finances, including topics we might shy away from, like legacy and estate planning. In this first podcast of 2025, Ben is thrilled to welcome back Ashley Harmon, a Lawyer specializing in estates. Ashley will explain why having a solid estate plan is essential for ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes, reducing legal complexities and taxes, and protecting your loved ones. 
As a lawyer with Hogarth Hermiston Severs, Ashley is passionate about helping individuals secure their hard-earned legacies and pass them on to future generations in practical, tax-efficient ways. Her expertise spans Estate Planning, Probate, Estate Litigation, Estate Administration, Adult Guardianships, and Real Estate. 

EP 54 - 2024 Highlights, End of Year & New Year Planning Ideas

As 2024 draws to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on a year of financial and personal growth. In this episode, we explore the major financial & market highlights of the year, offer essential year-end planning tips, and share strategies to kickstart 2025 on the right foot.
We'll discuss:
How the markets performed in 2024
Economic challenges and key updates
Upcoming tax information and rebates
Practical steps for financial planning in the new year
Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, we’ll remind you of the importance of sticking to your financial plans and maintaining a long-term perspective on savings and investments.
Join us for a special Clear Money Mindset episode as we wrap up 2024 and prepare for a strong 2025!