Episodes

3 days ago
3 days ago
Welcome to this week’s episode of Think Smart with TMFG! Join Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from Asante Capital Management as they break down the key differences between fee-based and fee-for-service advisors, helping you figure out which model best supports your financial goals. Are you overpaying for financial advice? And how much does your advisor’s fee structure really affect how well your financial plan gets implemented?
Rob and Mike dive deep into the real costs, levels of accountability, and execution challenges that come with different types of financial planning. Learn why implementation can be one of the toughest parts—and how choosing the right advisor can make all the difference in keeping your investments, retirement, and estate planning on track.
Tune in, and don’t miss this chance to cut through the noise and get smarter about your financial future!

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Episode 304: The Tariff Talk - How Global Trade Shifts Impact Your Wallet
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
In this week’s episode of Think Smart with TMFG, Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from Assante Capital Management explore the growing conversation around tariffs and their impact on the economy. With trade tensions rising and new tariffs making headlines, they break down what this means for consumers, businesses, and investors alike. Tune in as they discuss how shifting global trade policies could influence markets and offer tips on staying financially resilient in an uncertain economic climate.

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Episode 303: The Point of Money is to Spend it
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
In this week’s episode of Think Smart with TMFG, Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management discuss the true purpose of money: spending it wisely. They explore the concept that money isn’t just for saving, but for investing in experiences and things that add value to your life. Tune in to hear their insights on how to create a balanced approach to managing your finances, and why understanding the role of money in your life can lead to more fulfillment and financial freedom!

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Episode 302: Why You Should Stop Buying Individual Stocks
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
In this week’s episode of Think Smart with TMFG, Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management explain why you should stop buying individual stocks. They break down the risks and common misconceptions about stock picking, and share smarter investment strategies to build long-term wealth. Tune in to learn why diversifying your portfolio and avoiding individual stocks could be a game-changer for your financial future!

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Episode 301: Mistakes You're Likely to Make When Filing Your Tax Return
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
In this week’s episode of Think Smart with TMFG, Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management walk you through the common mistakes Canadians often make when filing their tax returns. From missed deductions to misunderstood tax credits, these errors can cost you more than you think. Tune in to learn how to avoid these pitfalls and ensure your tax return is as smooth as possible!

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Episode 300: Are Canadian Banks Truly Serving You?
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Join Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management in this special 300th episode of Think Smart with TMFG. They delve into the ten reasons why Canadian banks might not have your best interests at heart. From high fees and lack of transparency to conflicts of interest and unfair lending practices, this episode sheds light on the practices that might affect you as a banking customer. Listen in to explore how corporate greed and limited competition shape the financial landscape in Canada. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the potential disconnect between profit-making and client service in the banking sector.

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Episode 299: Why Canada's Stock Market is Shrinking: Insights & Challenges
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Welcome to "Think Smart with TMFG," where hosts Rob McClelland and Mike Connon delve into the latest developments in the Canadian stock market. This episode explores the transformation of Canadian corporations over the past 30 years, comparing their evolution to their US counterparts. With an eye on the future, the hosts discuss the importance of global diversification, revealing why a Canadian-only investment portfolio no longer suffices. Tune in to understand the challenges and opportunities facing Canadian investors in an increasingly interconnected world.

Monday Mar 03, 2025
Episode 298: 20 Common Investment Pitfalls You Might Be Facing (Part 2)
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
In this episode of "Think Smart with TMFG," hosts and senior financial advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management delve into the second half of a series on common portfolio management mistakes. Following up on their previous discussion, they tackle reasons 11 to 20 that could hinder your financial growth and success.
Join the hosts as they break down complex investment concepts such as understanding performance metrics, the influence of media, inflation considerations, and market timing pitfalls. They emphasize the importance of thorough due diligence, choosing the right advisor, and maintaining control over controllable financial aspects.
This insightful conversation aims to help everyday Canadians better understand their investment strategies, offering practical tips to build a more robust and resilient portfolio. Discover expert advice that paves the way for smarter financial decisions and long-term financial stability.

Monday Mar 03, 2025
Episode 297: 20 Common Investment Pitfalls You Might Be Facing (Part 1)
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
In this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, hosts Rob McClelland and Mike Connon dig into ten crucial investment mistakes that are often overlooked by everyday investors. From overly optimistic return expectations to the dangers of neglecting diversification, they unravel these pitfalls using real-world experiences. Listen in to gain insights into correcting these errors and enhancing your financial strategy. The road to smarter investing starts here.

Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Episode 296: A Deep Dive into Trump's Tactics
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Join hosts Rob McClelland and Mike Connon in this week's episode of "Think Smart with TMFG" as they delve into the controversial figure of Donald Trump and his impact on Canada-U.S. relations. Through personal anecdotes and analysis, they examine Trump's history of bullying tactics, his approach to tariffs, and the potential economic repercussions on both sides of the border.
Discover insights into how Trump's strategies have unfolded, from the infamous New York speech to political maneuvers that have left lasting impressions on the global stage. Rob and Mike explore the intricate dynamics of trade agreements, tariffs, and their broader implications on markets and industries.
Tune in to learn about the resilience needed to navigate these uncertain times and how sticking to a well-designed financial plan can be crucial amidst the noise. "Think Smart with TMFG" offers a compelling discussion on economics, politics, and the way forward for Canadians in an ever-changing world.