57. Ask Sofiia: How Much Our Wedding is Actually Costing Us

Is remote work the dream… or just a lonely trap? Is the office outdated… or still the best place to build your career?In this episode, I share the real pros and cons of remote vs office life, and why the answer often depends on where you are in your career. From my early years in a traditional finance office to later working remotely while building my own projects, I talk about what each setup gave me and what it took away.This episode also includes a personal update on my life and the podcast, and what you can expect from the podcast in the second half of 2025.Whether you’re in your 20s seeking mentorship and visibility, or in your 30s craving flexibility and balance, this conversation will help you rethink what’s best for you right now.

Job hunting in 2025 looks different — and for many women, it comes with added challenges: layoffs, confidence gaps, career pivots, and navigating a job market that’s constantly evolving. In this episode, I’m joined by Amanda Sayfy, Executive Director of Dress for Success Vancouver, to break down how women can rebuild their confidence, advocate for themselves, and land meaningful work.We talk about:The biggest mistakes women make in job searches — and how to avoid themHow to prepare for interviews and negotiate your salary with confidenceCareer pivots after layoffs or life changesBuilding a strong professional network and finding mentorshipWhy financial independence is more than just a paycheckThe real power of community, resilience, and support programs like Dress for SuccessWhether you're reentering the workforce, switching careers, or just feeling stuck in your current role, this episode will give you the mindset shifts and tools to move forward.🎧 Listen now and share with a friend who needs to hear this!Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Career Pivots, Confidence & Job Hunting in 202500:33 – Meet Amanda Sayfy: Executive Director of Dress for Success Vancouver01:35 – The Story Behind Dress for Success Vancouver05:14 – Amanda’s Career Journey in the Non-Profit Sector07:41 – Top Challenges Women Face in the Job Search Today10:08 – How Women Can Build Confidence and Recognize Their Professional Value11:19 – Using AI in Job Applications + How to Network Effectively16:26 – Why Sponsorship and Mentorship Matter for Women’s Career Growth23:43 – What Financial Independence Really Means for Women26:50 – How to Support or Get Help from Dress for Success Vancouver28:14 – Final Thoughts: Encouragement for Job Seekers in 2025Episode resources:Dress for Success Vancouver websiteAmanda's LinkedInGet Your Monthly Budget Planner for $20Contact for partnerships & collaborations

Is the economy in trouble? Headlines are swirling about inflation, new tariffs, market dips, and global trade tensions — and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. In this episode of In Her Wallet, I’m joined by Seth Allen, Senior Portfolio Manager at Cadence Financial Group with Raymond James, who brings over 25 years of experience breaking down the markets and helping investors stay calm during times of uncertainty.We cover:What tariffs actually are (and why governments use them)How trade tensions affect prices at the grocery store, in fashion, and beyondWhat Canadian consumers and investors need to knowHow to stay informed without spiraling from scary headlinesThe #1 money habit to build financial resilience in volatile timesWhether you're a beginner or a seasoned investor trying to make sense of it all, Seth shares practical advice for staying grounded, spotting meaningful economic trends, and making smart money moves in any environment.📌 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube!📩 Have a question about markets and economy? Drop it in the comments!📅 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & What This Episode Covers01:05 – Introducing Seth Allen, Senior Portfolio Manager02:30 – What’s Really Going On With the Economy Right Now?03:52 – Tariffs Explained: What They Are and Why They Matter06:50 – How Tariffs Are Impacting Canadians in 202509:15 – Industries Most Affected by Global Trade Tensions10:53 – Should You Buy or Sell a Car Right Now?12:00 – Market Volatility: What Investors Should Know16:33 – Two Types of Companies to Watch: “Renters” vs “Buyers”22:55 – Smart Strategies for Canadian Investors Amid U.S. Market Swings29:12 – Money Mindset: Staying Grounded in a Shaky Economy31:19 – Where to Learn More From Seth Allen💰Episode resources:🔹 Cadence Financial Group: https://www.cadencefinancialgroup.com/team/seth-allen🔹 Get Your Monthly Budget Planner for $20: https://stan.store/inherwallet🔹 Contact for partnerships & collaborations: https://sofiiasalimova.carrd.co/💰 Connect with Sofiia:🔹 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofiiasalimova/

Can a luxury handbag actually make you money? In this episode of In Her Wallet, I sit down with Courtney Watkins, founder of Canada’s leading pre-loved designer fashion store, Mine & Yours, to talk about turning handbags into smart financial investments.You’ll learn:✅Which designer bags hold their value best✅ How to spot a good investment bag✅ What to know before you buy or resell a luxury handbag✅ Tips for maximizing resale value (yes, receipts matter!)✅ How to shop more sustainably through resale✅ Red flags to avoid when buying secondhand designer bagsWhether you're eyeing your first Chanel or considering selling a bag from your closet, this episode is packed with real, actionable advice on how to make fashion work for your wallet.📌 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube!📩 Have a question about luxury resale? Drop it in the comments!📅 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to In Her Wallet + What Today’s Episode Is About01:09 – Meet Courtney Watkins, Founder of Mine & Yours01:20 – How Mine & Yours Became Canada’s Pre-Loved Luxury Hotspot03:01 – Are Designer Bags a Good Investment? Here's What to Know06:09 – Top 3 Handbags with the Highest Resale Value07:37 – Up-and-Coming Brands Worth Watching16:20 – Can Luxury Fashion Be Sustainable? (Earth Month Talk)18:28 – How to Maximize Your Bag’s Resale Value26:15 – Spotting Fakes: Authenticity Red Flags to Avoid33:17 – Final Tips for Shopping Smarter + Buying Bags That Hold ValueEpisode resources:🔹Website Mine & Yours: https://www.mineandyours.com/🔹Get Your Monthly Budget Planner for $20: https://stan.store/inherwallet🔹Contact for partnerships & collaborations: https://sofiiasalimova.carrd.co/Follow Sofiia for more insights on finance & jewelry:🔹 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofiiasalimova/🔹 Substack: https://hallofgems.substack.com/

What happens if your engagement ring gets lost, stolen, or the diamond falls out? Would you be covered—or would you be out thousands of dollars?In this episode, I sit down with Dustin Lemick, a third-generation jeweler and founder/CEO of BriteCo, to break down everything you need to know about engagement ring insurance and how to protect your jewelry the right way.Topics covered:How much does engagement ring insurance cost? (And what it actually covers)Should you add your ring to homeowners or renters insurance? (Pros & cons)The biggest myths about jewelry insurance (What most people get wrong)Why so many couples forget to insure their engagement ringWhat’s the minimum value of jewelry worth insuring?If you have an engagement ring, wedding band, or fine jewelry, this episode is a MUST-watch!

Self-employed? Learn how to save money on taxes, maximize write-offs, and avoid CRA mistakes in this episode of In Her Wallet!In this episode, host Sofiia sits down with Chartered Professional Accountant Cindy Kumar to break down self-employment taxes and how freelancers, consultants, and small business owners can navigate tax season with confidence.Topics covered:Key differences between taxes for employees vs. self-employed individualsSmart tax deductions & common write-off mythsAudit triggers & how to avoid red flags with the CRAShould you incorporate? The pros & cons for tax savingsHow accountants add value beyond tax software like TurboTaxMaximizing retirement plans (RRSP) for self-employed individualsWhether you’re a freelancer, consultant, or small business owner, this comprehensive guide will help you avoid tax pitfalls, save money, and stay compliant.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube!Have a tax question? Drop it in the comments!Cindy's resources:100 Tax Write-Offs Cheat SheetBook a Free 20-Min Financial Clarity Session with CindyRegister for 4-Week Tax Course for Self-EmployedIn Her Wallet's resources:Listen to EP64 You Guide to Filing Personal Income Taxes with Wealthsimple's Caroline CorbeilGet Your Monthly Budget Planner for $20Watch Episodes on YouTube!

In episode 91 of In Her Wallet, we’re talking about something just as important as love in a relationship—money. Financial compatibility can make or break a relationship, yet so many people ignore the warning signs until it’s too late.In this episode, we’re diving into:🚩 The biggest financial red flags that can signal deeper issues in a relationship💰 Why money habits matter more than income differences🔍 Real-life stories of financial secrecy, overspending, and hidden debt🔒 5 ways to protect yourself financially—whether you're dating, engaged, or in a long-term partnershipWhether you’re single, in a relationship, or navigating finances with a partner, this episode will help you spot red flags early, set healthy financial boundaries, and build a relationship that’s strong both emotionally and financially.

In episode 90 of In Her Wallet podcast, I’m tackling one of the biggest financial questions: How do you invest your first $1,000? If you’ve been wanting to start investing but feel overwhelmed by where to begin, this episode is for you!! I’m breaking down everything step by step—how to define your investment goal, whether to choose a TFSA, RRSP, or FHSA, and the best beginner-friendly options like ETFs, robo-advisors, or individual stocks. Plus, I’ll share a funny story about how my husband and I took very different approaches to investing in Uber, and what that taught me about patience in the market. I’ll also cover common investing mistakes to avoid, so you can start building wealth with confidence. By the end of this episode (in just 25 minutes…), you’ll know exactly where to put your first $1,000 and how to make your first investment. Tune in now and take the first step toward growing your money! Start Managing Your Money Like a Pro with This Tool! Ep50 "How to Not Get (Fin)fluenced with Bad Financial Advice?"

In Episode 89 of the In Her Wallet podcast, I’m sharing how I’m building my Personal Board of Directors this year—a concept that could be a total game-changer for your career, personal growth, and life goals. You’ll hear: What a Personal Board of Directors is and why it matters. The step-by-step process I used to define my goals, identify key roles, and select the right people for my board. How to approach potential members with clarity and intention, and set up a framework that works for both sides. Tips on how to engage regularly and create a meaningful, mutually beneficial relationship with your board. Whether you’re navigating a big career pivot, planning a major life event, or just looking for guidance and support to achieve your goals, this episode will help you level up your life with the help of your own dream team!

In episode 88 of In Her Wallet podcast, I’m diving into the 7 financial red flags that might be holding you back in 2025. These could be personal habits or behaviors you’ve noticed in yourself or others—like your partner or family members—that silently sabotage financial health. I’ll share personal stories for each red flag and the solutions that have worked for me, giving you practical steps to tackle them head-on. This episode is all about helping you reflect, reset, and make smarter financial decisions this year—starting today! Resources referenced: Check out Monthly Budget Template by In Her Wallet Start investing with Wealthsimple