What role do expectations and consumer culture play in shaping our financial well-being? How can we make smarter, long-term decisions that align with a meaningful life rather than short-term gratification? What lessons can we draw from those who’ve found financial independence through simplicity and intentionality? These are just a few of the powerful questions explored in today’s episode.

Marcelo Taboada sits down with acclaimed La Presse journalist Nicolas Bérubé to explore the deeper intersection between money, happiness, and our daily decisions. They examine popular topics from Nicolas’ widely read weekly financial columns, challenging us to think critically about how we spend, save, and define success.

This episode offers grounded wisdom for both younger listeners and seasoned professionals, covering everything from car buying habits and Uber Eats culture to the importance of gratefulness and long-term planning.

Thank you for tuning in!

● Introduction and guest background on Nicolas Bérubé (0:00)

● Nicolas’ early journey into journalism and passion for financial writing (3:50)

● The clarity and communication style that sets Nicolas apart (7:41)

● The origins and purpose of his column “L’argent et le bonheur” (11:32)

● How Canadians are reacting economically and emotionally to the US political climate (15:23)

● Choosing Canadian goods and reflecting on local economic impacts (19:14)

● On gratitude, health, and redefining wealth (23:05)

● The paradox of modern abundance and mental health struggles (26:56)

● Uber Eats, luxury spending, and opportunity cost in everyday life (30:47)

● Personal finance through the lens of real choices and trade-offs (34:38)

● Hedonic vs. eudemonic happiness and the pull of social media (38:29)

● What today’s habits reveal about future financial independence (42:20)

● Creating a meaningful life through intentional daily actions (46:11)

● Lifestyle inflation, children’s expenses, and thoughtful consumption (50:02)

● The power of compound interest and long-term financial vision (53:53)

And much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

• From Zero to Millionaire by Nicolas Bérubé
• Les millionnaires ne sont pas ceux que vous croyez by Nicolas Bérubé
• La Joie et le Bonheur by Nicolas Bérubé
• Podcast: Maximizing Life Satisfaction and Happiness with Author Andrew Hallam
• Millionaire Teacher by Andrew Hallam
• Tulett, Matthews & Associates

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google,