Best Don McDonald Podcasts (2025)

1
Episode 142: H.P. Lovecraft & the Cthulhu Mythos 1:25:06

6h ago1:25:06

1:25:06

This week, we take a break from the horrors of reality to delve into the unspeakable horrors of H.P. Lovecraft and the terrors of his imagination. Lovecraft, the creator of what became known as "Cosmic Horror" was a complicated man, and his creations mimic his fear of the unknown and alien. We'll separate the art from the artist. And it's us, so of…

1
Battle for BC: Predictions! 41:59

22h ago41:59

41:59

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from BC Dairy, and the NFP. SPECIAL POD: 🏨🌄 This Sunday at Hotel Pacifico Mike McDonald and Richard Zussman launch our "Battle for BC" segment with a riding by riding review of 2025 federal election. Mike and Richard will join us each Sunday during the federal election with a look at a new…

1
More Raised Hands 23:28

4h ago23:28

23:28

In this listener Q&A episode, Don dives into some powerful topics—from calling out the sales-driven heart of the financial services industry to explaining how bond index funds are built and breaking down the tax realities of non-retirement brokerage accounts. A caller wrestles with guilt over a bad annuity recommendation for a dying relative, promp…

1
Gold Doesn't Work–Your Money Should 29:25

23h ago29:25

29:25

Gold is back in the headlines, but should it be in your portfolio? Don and Tom take a fresh (and frequently hilarious) look at the shiny metal that never seems to deliver. From Fort Knox to Costco’s gold bar rush, they trace gold’s lackluster long-term returns and its overhyped reputation as a hedge. They break down why physical gold fails as an in…

1
The Best New Strategy is Old 45:36

3d ago45:36

45:36

When markets get bumpy, emotions take the wheel—and that’s exactly why Don spends this solo episode reminding listeners that logic, evidence, and simplicity still win in the long run. He digs into why private investments aren't the magic they claim to be (even when Vanguard jumps in), why diversification still beats sexy strategies, and how the bes…

1
"Poilievre was channeling Trump" with Don Davies + Caroline Elliott 1:17:04

4d ago1:17:04

1:17:04

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC. 🏨🌄 This week Kate, Geoff, and Mike welcome five-term NDP MP Don Davies (Vancouver Kingsway) to Hotel Pacifico. Mr. Davies makes the case for the NDP amidst challenging poll results, and discusses how the NDP has influenced federal pol…

1
Less Risk Can Cost More 45:50

4d ago45:50

45:50

Don flies solo on this episode of Talking Real Money, fielding calls and calling out the nonsense in fancy investment gimmicks. From market-neutral funds to buffered ETFs, he lays out the case for simplicity, diversification, and discipline over complexity and high fees. Along the way, he compares real-world returns of flashy funds to the humble Va…

1
60 Minutes’ Steve Kroft reflects on his acclaimed reporting career 34:26

5d ago34:26

34:26

Steve Kroft is a renowned journalist and former CBS correspondent for 60 Minutes, where he reported for 30 seasons. His investigative reporting garnered widespread acclaim, winning him five Peabody Awards and 11 Emmy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement in 2003. His legendary reporting career includes international war coverage and major histor…

1
Wall Street Wants You Scared 26:05

5d ago26:05

26:05

In this episode of Talking Real Money, Don McDonald and Tom Cock discuss practical strategies for navigating recessions without panic or unnecessary market timing. They critique the constant, fear-driven speculation around economic downturns and emphasize maintaining a disciplined, long-term approach. Highlighting actual investor behavior from Dalb…

1
Shore Perspectives 4-20-25 Eric Fisher 56:46

7d ago56:46

56:46

In this episode of Shore Perspectives, host Jeff Ferguson is joined by Eric Fisher, Chairman of the Maryland Critical Area Commission. Together they discuss the environment as it particularly pertains to the Chesapeake Bay.By Jeff Ferguson on WCTR

1
Episode 141: The McDonald's Coffee Trial 55:00

7d ago55:00

55:00

We've all heard the story. A woman spills hot coffee on herself and sues McDonald's because the coffee was hot. But is that really what happened? Is there more to the story than a frivolous lawsuit from a woman who did not know that coffee was hot? Well, we're doing an episode on it, so what do you think?…

1
Battle for BC: Vancouver and North of Fraser Review 52:25

8d ago52:25

52:25

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from BC Dairy, and the NFP. SPECIAL POD: 🏨🌄 This Sunday at Hotel Pacifico Mike McDonald and Richard Zussman launch our "Battle for BC" segment with a riding by riding review of 2025 federal election. Mike and Richard will join us each Sunday during the federal election with a look at a new…

1
"Keep Connor McDavid on the Ice" /w former premier, Gordon Campbell + Marko Dekovic 1:19:29

11d ago1:19:29

1:19:29

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC. 🏨🌄 This week Kate, Mike, and Geoff welcome the 34th Premier of British Columbia, Gordon Campbell. Gordon discusses the federal election, the US tariff dispute, how Canada needs to build on its strengths, and just get rid of those inte…

1
Your Proper Risk 45:32

11d ago45:32

45:32

Don and Tom explore the role of risk, resilience, and rational investing as they tackle stock market uncertainty, Roth conversion confusion, and Robinhood’s attempt to lure new users. They mix in practical advice with plenty of caller questions—plus a detour into air-dried laundry, social media skepticism, and an appreciation for the film Tune Out …

1
A Wild Ride 45:14

12d ago45:14

45:14

Wild market swings, political chaos, and investor confusion set the stage for this episode. Don and Tom break down the emotional impact of volatility, the myths of market timing, and the wisdom in sticking to long-term plans. With insights from Jason Zweig and some smart listener Q&A, they remind us that discipline—not prediction—is what builds wea…

1
From the Archives: Vanessa Williams: From Miss America to Miranda Priestly 38:16

12d ago38:16

38:16

There is bouncing back after adversity, and then there is: Vanessa Williams. The talented multi-hyphenate was only 21 years old when she became the first Black woman to be crowned Miss America. Yet a controversy surrounding the release of unauthorized nude photos led to her ultimately relinquishing her title 10 months into her reign. When doors wer…

1
A Fool and His Money... 32:31

13d ago32:31

32:31

In this classic swirl of candor, humor, and financial sense, Don and Tom tackle the human habit of financial foolishness—from betting big on speculative ETFs to ignoring global diversification. They call out the irony of investment products like ELON, roast the current state of the Motley Fool, and offer real-world perspective on international inve…

1
Shore Perspective 4-13-25 - Oksana and Nikita from Oksana's Produce Farm 1:06:01

14d ago1:06:01

1:06:01

On this episode of Shore PErspectives, host Jeff Ferguson talks with the owners of Oksanas Produce Farm, Oksana and her son Nikita about the mission of the farm and what they have to offer.By Jeff Ferguson on WCTR

1
Battle for BC: Fraser Valley & Beyond Hope Review 49:02

14d ago49:02

49:02

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from BC Dairy, and the NFP. SPECIAL POD: 🏨🌄 This Sunday at Hotel Pacifico Mike McDonald and Richard Zussman launch our "Battle for BC" segment with a riding by riding review of 2025 federal election. Mike and Richard will join us each Sunday during the federal election with a look at a new…

1
Episode 140: Facebook Poll Winner- Roanoke Part 2 1:27:19

14d ago1:27:19

1:27:19

So, what happened to the settlers on Roanoke Island? This week we look at the most likely options, from assimilation to cannibalism, no topic is left off the table. We also discuss some other occurrences of the word Croatoan throughout history that leads to brand new SCP Pete/Sassafras Charlie lore.

1
Q'in' and A'in' 22:16

16d ago22:16

22:16

It’s a full-on Q&A Friday as Don tackles listener questions on account consolidation, fund choices, proper bond allocation, and portfolio construction. From dissecting the merits of AVGE vs. DFAW vs. VT+AVUV, to helping federal employees estimate how much to save, and even clearing up confusion about average returns—this episode is a masterclass in…

1
Talking Real Rules 34:21

16d ago34:21

34:21

Don and Tom put popular retirement rules of thumb under the microscope—testing everything from the 4% withdrawal rule to the idea of downsizing your home in retirement. With equal parts logic and skepticism, they explore whether these oft-repeated guidelines still hold up in today's financial landscape. Along the way, they touch on portfolio constr…

1
Tariffs Feed Inflation 45:40

18d ago45:40

45:40

This episode dives deep into the market’s latest mood swing and the potential impact of new tariffs on consumer costs—like the real price of your next iPhone. Don and Tom explain what tariffs are, how they work, and why they’re likely to fuel inflation. Plus, they tackle a range of listener questions, from the risks of fixed-income annuities and re…

1
Election Polling with Greg Lyle + Guest Co-Host Aisha Estey 1:26:57

18d ago1:26:57

1:26:57

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC. 🏨🌄 Pollster Greg Lyle (Innovative Research Group) stops by Hotel Pacifico this week to discuss the federal race with Mike, Geoff, and guest co-host Aisha Estey. Greg drills down into the data about what’s driving the Liberal lead in t…

1
Ups and Downs 45:29

19d ago45:29

45:29

In this episode, Don and Tom address the market’s recent correction—without ever saying the “D-word.” They explain how global diversification cushions the blow, why balanced portfolios aren’t as battered as headlines suggest, and how reacting emotionally is the real danger. They also dive into classic investing mistakes, like stock concentration an…

1
American Ballet Theater’s Susan Jaffe, onstage and off 45:13

19d ago45:13

45:13

Susan Jaffe is a former ballerina who performed for 22 years as a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theater. She is known for iconic roles such as Swan Lake’s Odette and Odile, Kitri in Don Quixote, and Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. Jaffe has performed internationally and her repertoire includes the works of iconic choreographers such as Geor…

1
Inviolate Investments 28:13

20d ago28:13

28:13

In this episode of Talking Real Money, Don and Tom sound the alarm on a troubling trend: more people are dipping into their 401(k)s for emergencies. While hardship withdrawals are allowed under IRS rules, they come with serious penalties, taxes, and long-term setbacks. The hosts stress the importance of building an emergency fund before maxing out …

1
Battle for BC: Suburban Battleground Review 46:34

21d ago46:34

46:34

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from BC Dairy, and the NFP. SPECIAL POD: 🏨🌄 This Sunday at Hotel Pacifico Mike McDonald and Richard Zussman launch our "Battle for BC" segment with a riding by riding review of 2025 federal election. Mike and Richard will join us each Sunday during the federal election with a look at a new…

1
Shore Perspectives 4-6-25 Beth Ann Dorman of For All Seasons 53:39

21d ago53:39

53:39

In this Episode of Shore Perspectives, host Jeff Ferguson talks with the CEO of For All Seasons Behavioral Health and Rape Crisis Center.By Jeff Ferguson on WCTR

1
Episode 139: Facebook Poll Winner- Roanoke Part 1 1:34:31

21d ago1:34:31

1:34:31

It's democracy in action – the people have spoken! Our first Facebook poll winner is Roanoke. In the late 1500s, an entire village of people disappeared from the island of Roanoke, becoming America's first urban legend and conspiracy theory. What happened to the settlers? Did they die of starvation? Did they resort to cannibalism? Were they massacr…

1
Episode 95 - Ken Horton, Part 1 1:34:53

22d ago1:34:53

1:34:53

Ken Horton was obsessed about curling. He honed his skills at the Crossmyloof Ice Rink in Glasgow, eventually teaming with skip Robert Kelly and the front end of Willie Jamieson and Keith Douglas to win the Scottish Junior Mens title in 1976. They were the home team at the Uniroyal Junior Men's Championship in Aviemore, losing in the semifinal to t…

1
Capital Queries 17:24

23d ago17:24

17:24

It’s Q&A Day on Talking Real Money, and Don tackles listener questions on everything from crypto and REITs to emergency funds and IRA contributions. He reiterates his firm stance against crypto as an investment, warns about the risks of individual REITs, and supports diversified REIT funds for long-term portfolios. Don also confirms that yes, you c…

1
Wait Long Enough? 31:21

24d ago31:21

31:21

In this episode of Talking Real Money, Don and Tom dive deep into the question of whether long-term investing in stocks truly guarantees returns. Challenging the conventional wisdom, they examine research by Professor Edward McQuarrie that reveals 10- and even 30-year periods in U.S. and international markets where investors lost money—especially w…

1
The Rich Half 44:55

25d ago44:55

44:55

At Talking Real Money, we emphasize fundamental financial principles like disciplined saving, diversification, and cautious investing—highlighted this episode through insights on wealth distribution in America, noting that successful financial outcomes depend heavily on diligent saving and investing, particularly in equities, businesses, and real e…

1
"When Sh*t Really Hit The Fan" with Matt Stickney 1:17:06

25d ago1:17:06

1:17:06

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from our presenting sponsor TELUS, as well as FortisBC. 🏨🌄 This week Hotel Pacifico welcomes Matt Stickney, former Senior Advisor to Prime Minister Trudeau. A Surrey boy through and through, Matt discusses working in the PMO, bringing a suburban voice to the table, how premiers make their …

1
Hedge Secrets? 45:25

26d ago45:25

45:25

At Talking Real Money, we’re here to reinforce core investing principles: diversify, plan carefully, and never attempt to predict market swings—a point underscored by famed hedge fund manager Ray Dalio, who advocates holding multiple uncorrelated asset classes rather than timing market downturns. Dalio warns of economic shocks comparable to past cr…

1
From the Archives: Amanda Knox Navigates Labyrinths 43:09

26d ago43:09

43:09

Amanda knows about living inside other people’s preconceptions. When she was 22 years old, she was sentenced to 26 years in prison for a murder she didn’t commit. In 2007, on a study-abroad program in Perugia, Italy, Amanda’s roommate Meredith Kurcher was raped and murdered. The police and the tabloids pinned it on “Foxy Knoxy,” calling Amanda a se…

1
Don't Cry for Me 28:19

27d ago28:19

28:19

At Talking Real Money, we consistently emphasize that investing requires diversification, low costs, planning, and acknowledgment that predicting the future is impossible—a lesson humorously highlighted by the saga of Argentina's 100-year bond. Originally mocked after Argentina defaulted in 2020, this bond, offering an initially enticing 7.9% yield…

1
Battle for BC: Riding x Riding Review 39:24

28d ago39:24

39:24

Hotel Pacifico was created by Air Quotes Media with support from BC Dairy. SPECIAL POD: 🏨🌄 This Sunday at Hotel Pacifico Mike McDonald and Richard Zussman launch our "Battle for BC" segment with a riding by riding review of 2025 federal election. Mike and Richard will join us each Sunday during the federal election with a look at a new set of ridin…

1
The Beast of Gevaudan Supercut 2:40:34

28d ago2:40:34

2:40:34

What makes a man bark like a dog? Why was that American Werewolf in London? Do all Werewolves have abs like the ones in the Twilight movies? These are questions you will not find the answers to on this podcast. What you will hear is the history of lycanthropy. But be sure to sit through class because the extra credit is one of Rubin and Josh's favo…

1
You're Asking Away 25:03

30d ago25:03

25:03

On this Friday's episode of Talking Real Money, Don McDonald continued his weekly tradition of answering listener questions, covering practical financial concerns in a straightforward and engaging way. He tackled questions ranging from understanding bid-ask spreads when purchasing ETFs, to choosing the best short-term investment options, such as hi…

1
Quiet Investing Science 45:05

1M ago45:05

45:05

On today's Talking Real Money, Don McDonald welcomed two special guests from Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA)—founder David Booth and co-CEO Dave Butler—to discuss their unique investment philosophy and the importance of tuning out financial noise. The conversation centered around DFA's documentary, "Tune Out the Noise," which emphasizes an academic…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Don McDonald Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide