Think Smart with TMFG

Episode 319: The Truth Behind Credit Cards: Part 2

In this episode of "Think Smart with TMFG," hosts Mike Connon and Financial Advisor, John Iacanetti at The McClelland Financial Group of Assante Capital Management Ltd., dive deeper into the world of credit cards—an everyday financial tool that’s often misunderstood.

Building on their previous discussion, they explore practical strategies for effective credit card management, offering listeners actionable tips to maximize benefits while avoiding common mistakes. 

Learn how to maintain a healthy credit balance, steer clear of pitfalls like carrying unpaid balances and using cash advances, and make the most of your rewards programs. 

John also shares his personal experience navigating credit card debt, shedding light on how disciplined habits and smart usage can make a real difference. 

They cover the many perks of credit cards—fraud protection, extended warranties, and convenience—while offering key advice on interest rates, automatic payments, and subscription management. 

Whether you're new to credit or looking to sharpen your approach, this episode is full of valuable insights to help you use credit cards wisely and strengthen your financial well-being. 

Episode 318: The Truth Behind Credit Cards

In this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, Mike Connon and Senior Financial Advisor at The McClelland Financial Group of Assante Capital Management Ltd., John Iaconetti dive into the often-overlooked complexities of credit cards — a modern financial tool that’s both essential and potentially risky. They unpack the benefits, from building credit history to maximizing rewards, while offering a clear-eyed look at common pitfalls like high interest rates and overspending. You’ll also learn how credit card companies really operate, debunk popular myths about credit utilization, and get practical tips for choosing the right card to fit your lifestyle and financial goals.

Episode 317: Too Many Hands in the Pot: The Hidden Cost of Middlemen

Welcome to another episode of Think Smart with TMFG.

In this episode, host Mike Connon is joined by John Iaconetti, Senior Financial Advisor at The McClelland Financial Group of Assante Capital Management Ltd., for an insightful conversation on the evolving role of middlemen across industries.

From construction and banking to retail and beyond, they explore how intermediaries impact costs, efficiency, and your bottom line—drawing from both personal stories and professional experience.

You'll walk away with practical tips to reduce the layers between you and the products or services you need—whether you're planning a renovation, buying a car, or grocery shopping. Understanding how middlemen operate can help you make smarter, more cost-effective financial decisions.

Episode 316: Real Talk about Real Estate

Welcome to another insightful episode of Think Smart with TMFG.

In this episode, Mike Connon is joined by Senior Financial Advisor Carlo Cansino of The McClelland Financial Group of Assante Capital Management to explore the current state of the real estate market.

Together, they unpack how rising interest rates and shifting market dynamics are impacting both homeowners and prospective buyers.

From high carrying costs to the hurdles of buying and selling in today’s environment, Mike and Carlo shed light on the real-world challenges of real estate and the importance of setting realistic expectations when it comes to property values.

With real-life anecdotes and expert insights, they provide practical guidance for anyone trying to make sense of an increasingly complex housing landscape.

Episode 315: How Wars Impact Global Economies

In this episode, Michael Connon, Senior Financial Advisor at The McClelland Financial Group of Assante Capital Management, sits down with fellow Senior Financial Advisor Carlo Cansino to explore how global conflicts—from World War I to recent tensions in the Middle East—have historically influenced investor behaviour and market performance.

Discover the surprising resilience of financial markets during wartime, and why staying invested through periods of uncertainty can be one of the smartest strategies for long-term success. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just beginning your financial journey, this episode offers valuable insights on managing your portfolio in turbulent times.

Episode 314: Why You Should Always Keep the End Goal in Mind

In this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, Mike Connon welcomes special guest Carlo Cansino for a compelling conversation on the tension between instant gratification and long-term planning. Inspired by recent travels through Europe, they reflect on the breathtaking architecture of Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia and the intentional, forward-thinking design of ancient wineries. These timeless structures set the stage for a deeper dive into investing—comparing the patient, purpose-driven approaches of the past with today’s fast-paced, quick-return mindset. Discover why staying focused on long-term goals is critical to navigating the complexities of a modern investment portfolio.

Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of how resilience and vision—whether in stone or strategy—shape lasting success.

Episode 313: The AI Shift: How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping Our World

In this episode of ThinkSmart with TMFG, Mike Connon is joined by special guest John Iaconetti for a dynamic conversation on the innovations that have fundamentally changed the way we live. From the invention of the wheel to the rise of artificial intelligence, they explore groundbreaking moments in technology, medicine, and finance.

Hear engaging stories—like how wine production became automated, why alternating current revolutionized electricity, and how modern financial planning software is reshaping the advisor-client relationship.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how innovation continues to shape our daily lives, influence industries, and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Episode 312: How Much Money Should You Have Invested In the Canadian Stock Market

We're bringing back this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, where Rob McClelland and Mike Connon take a hard look at a common pitfall in Canadian investing: home bias.

With many portfolios allocating around 50% to Canadian equities—despite Canada making up just 2.6% of the global market—they unpack why this imbalance could be holding investors back.

Rob and Mike explore the risks of overconcentration, especially with Canadian banks dominating so many portfolios. They compare historical returns across global markets, including the U.S. S&P 500, and highlight how major pension plans keep Canadian exposure as low as 4%. From tax efficiency to better global diversification, they lay out why broadening your investment horizon might lead to better outcomes.

If you're rethinking your portfolio—or just curious about what the big institutions are doing differently—this episode is worth another listen.

Episode 311: Why Insurance is Evil

Welcome to Think Smart with TMFG. In this engaging episode, hosts Rob McClelland and Mike Connon are joined by financial advisor and insurance specialist John Iaconetti, as they delve into the complexities of insurance. From the chaotic streets of the Philippines to the intricacies of the insurance industry, they explore why insurance is often perceived as both a blessing and a curse.

Discover the reasons behind the high costs associated with insurance, the role of reinsurance, and how insurance companies manage to stay profitable despite disasters. John shares insights on the importance of insurance in safeguarding income and other significant assets, emphasizing why it is considered a necessary evil in financial planning.

Through real-world examples and expert discussions, learn about different types of insurance, including health, critical illness, and travel, and their roles in protecting individuals and families from unforeseen financial burdens. This episode provides valuable guidance on making informed insurance decisions to ensure a secure financial future.

Episode 310: The Coming Recession

Welcome to Think Smart with TMFG, your go-to podcast for relevant news impacting Canadians. In this episode, hosts Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from Assante Capital Management explore the indicators of an impending recession and discuss potential strategies for navigating economic downturns. From the role of market behaviour to the impact of tariffs and layoffs, gain valuable insights into how a recession is defined and what to watch out for. Learn about historical recessions and get practical tips for personal finance and business preparedness. Tune in to stay informed and learn how to build resilience in times of financial uncertainty.