Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Money Made Better

Looking for an alternative to traditional banking? Credits unions could be the answer you've been looking for. President and CEO of Libro Credit Union Shawn Good joins the show to talk about a survey result that reveal credit union members often having better financial and overall wellness.

Finding that perfect holiday gift can be challenging, especially for those people ‘who have it all’. Host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Trip Producer from Guess Where Trips, Hannah Elias and Purpose and Integration Specialist with a focus on Climate, Bianca Rocha and discusses some sustainable gift options while supporting local this holiday season. Resources: Meaningful Market 2023 | Pillar Nonprofit Network

Pillar Nonprofit Network

Canadian Certified B Corporation Directory - Home Page (bcorpdirectory.ca)

Guess Where Trips – Guess Where Trips®

Welcome to Libro Credit Union's first podcast episode! March is Fraud Prevention Month, and on this episode we'll chat with London Police about some popular scams targeting youth. Social media has made it easy for scammers to find targets. Listen to find out some tips on how to avoid falling for a scam, or if you've been the target of a scam, the next steps you can take.

Having "the talk" with your kids – about money – can be especially tough if you're not an expert yourself! This Financial Literacy Month, Lynzee Barnett invites Karen Gallant, President and CEO of Junior Achievement South Western Ontario and Regional Manager, Scott Macleod at Libro Credit Union to share the importance of building financial literacy – developing the right mindset and attitude towards money and why it’s important to start young.

Wondering what it takes to boost your credit score? What impact do credit cards have and how many cards are too many? Building good credit can be a challenge if you don’t know where to start – especially if you’ve never had a credit card before. This episode of the Money Made Better Podcast takes a look at getting your first card and how to set you up for success.

Find out why Mitchell Avis, founder of Avision Planning, made the leap to Libro. Join host Lynzee Barnett as she chats with Mitchell and Jamie Lauckner, Investment Specialist at Libro, about how banking with a credit union is more than just transactions. It’s about values, relationships, and making a difference in your business and community. Hear Mitchell’s inspiring story to build stronger Indigenous futures and find out why his wife jokes about how much time he spends at the bank!

Skip the embarrassment—it’s time to talk money! Feeling overwhelmed by debt, struggling to stick to a savings plan, or unsure how to grow your wealth? Fear not! Paul McQueen, VP Wealth Management at Libro Credit Union, joins podcast host Lynzee Barnett in studio to share actionable insights that simplify getting started with savings and investments. *The promotions discussed in this episode are limited-time offers and subject to terms and conditions. Please visit Libro.ca to view active offers and associated legal pages for full details. Mutual funds and other securities are offered through Aviso Wealth, a division of Aviso Financial Inc.

In celebration of Earth Month 2025, join us as we explore how sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand for local businesses. Host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Kaitlin Creighton from Green Economy London, a key partner helping businesses measure and reduce their environmental impact, and Will Heeman of Heeman’s—a family-run business and proud Libro Owner—who shares the inspiring journey of implementing green initiatives that benefit both the planet and the bottom line. Whether you're just starting your sustainability journey or looking to take the next step, this episode offers practical insights, real-world examples, and encouragement to act.

Background information:

London Environmental Network (LEN): The London Environmental Network (LEN) is an environmental charitable organization based in London, Ontario, Canada. The LEN helps to protect our environment and build a more sustainable city by offering environmental programs and climate action opportunities for all residents. Green Economy London (A LEN program) is a chapter of the national Green Economy Canada network. Green Economy Canada engages with businesses to transform the economy.

Acronyms and definitions:

Greenwashing: the act or practice of making a product, policy, activity, etc. appear to be more environmentally friendly or less environmentally damaging than it really is.

Greenhouse Gases (GHGs): Greenhouse gases are gases in the earth's atmosphere that trap heat.

In this special episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Libro CEO Shawn Good to discuss the proposed merger between Kawartha Credit Union and Libro Credit Union.

They explore why now is the moment to grow stronger – together. From shared values and purpose-driven decisions to scaling impact across Ontario, this conversation unpacks what the merger means, why it matters, and how it will create more opportunity for Members and Owners, and what it means to be part of a credit union that’s built for this moment – and ready for the future.

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett talks with Peter May, co-owner of Maitland Valley Grotto, and Libro Relationship Manager Patrick Donnelly. From an idea sketched on a napkin to a thriving climbing gym, Peter shares his leap from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, and Patrick highlights how Libro helps small businesses grow.

Together, they explore what it means to just jump into business ownership and highlights the research, networking, and courage it takes to turn vision into reality. Whether you’re dreaming of your first venture or looking to expand, this conversation will inspire you to take the leap.

Starting a business is never easy – add a global pandemic, and you're facing the ultimate test of resilience. In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Lisa Owens, owner of Resolute Wellness in Ayr, Ontario, and Libro Small Business Specialist Prema A.

Lisa shares her journey of navigating uncertainty, transitioning to a sole proprietorship, and making the switch to Libro for values-aligned business banking. From starting strong and staying resolute, Lisa not only weathered the storm but began dreaming even bigger. Together, they explore what it takes to build a business grounded in community, resilience, and resourcefulness.

Host Lynzee Barnett is joined by Shawn Good, President & CEO of Libro Credit Union, for a timely conversation on navigating change and making confident financial decisions in uncertain times.

As Canadians face economic shifts, global pressures, and outdated financial systems, Shawn explores why now is the time to rethink who we trust with our money. From supporting local businesses to advocating for open banking and “Made-in-Canada” solutions, this episode unpacks what it means to choose a financial partner that shares your values — and why that alignment matters now more than ever.

Thinking about buying your first home? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own either. In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with YOUR #HomeSweetHome 519 REALTOR® Krystal Lee Moore, Real Estate Broker and Home Financing Advisor Shannon Higgins to walk through the homebuying journey, from the moment you start thinking about ownership to the day you get the keys.

Together, they offer a realistic look at what you can afford, how to navigate today’s market, and why being informed gives first-time buyers a competitive edge. From getting pre-approved and building a realistic budget to understanding how post-purchase decisions can affect your credit, this episode is packed with insights to help reduce stress and increase your confidence as you make one of life’s biggest decisions.

Taxes are important, but they don’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett welcomes Paul McQueen, VP Wealth at Libro Credit Union, to share simple ways to stress less, save more, and set yourself up for success before tax season.

From “set it and forget it” savings to understanding why time in the market matters more than timing the market, Paul breaks down how small, consistent actions can make a big difference over time. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to build on what you’ve already got, this episode will help you feel more confident and in control of your money – one step at a time.

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Laura Husser from Libro’s London South branch and Jane Roy from the London Food Bank for a warm conversation about what community support really means. They discuss the growing need for food assistance in London, how neighbours can help one another directly, and why involvement goes far beyond writing a cheque.

Through thoughtful stories and genuine reflections, Laura and Jane remind us how far kindness and connection can go when we show up for one another. As Jane puts it, “Give what you can. Give your time.”

What does it really mean to choose a credit union in today’s fast-changing banking landscape?

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett is joined by Shawn Good, President and CEO of Libro Credit Union, to talk about the recent merger between Libro and Kawartha Credit Union and what it means for members across Ontario. Together, they explore how two trusted credit union brands are coming together under one shared vision – taking a thoughtful, member-first approach to integration, minimizing disruption, and staying true to cooperative values.

As one organization maintaining two brands, the conversation highlights why greater scale doesn’t mean becoming a bank, and why purpose continues to set credit unions apart.

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Angela Neddo, owner of Habitual Chocolate, and Christine Hitchin, Libro Banking Advisor, to talk about entrepreneurship, passion, and building a business that works for your life. Angela shares her unconventional journey from the auto sector into chocolate making, the realities of owning a small business, and the care that goes into every part of the process beyond the product itself.

Together, they discuss the importance of trusted financial support, planning for busy seasons, and believing in yourself when taking a leap into something new. It’s an inspiring conversation about following your instincts, asking for help when you need it, and creating something meaningful in your community.

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Chris Traczuk, owner of The Rusty Wrench Brewery in Strathroy, Ontario, to talk about turning a passion into a business. Chris shares how what started as a hobby eventually became a full career change, leaving behind his work as a diesel mechanic to open a craft brewery rooted in community, and supported by Libro.

Chris reflects on the challenges of starting a business, navigating the pandemic, and the importance of staying connected to the local community. From hosting events to collaborating with other local businesses, The Rusty Wrench continues to focus on creating a welcoming space where people can gather and connect.

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Gagan Batra, Home Financing Advisor at Libro Credit Union, to talk about the journey to homeownership and why it starts earlier than many people think.

Gagan shares practical advice on building saving habits, understanding your financial picture, and knowing when you are ready to take the next step. From first-time buyers to those renewing or refinancing, the conversation highlights the importance of planning, staying disciplined, and making decisions based on your own goals rather than trying to time the market.

It’s a thoughtful reminder that homeownership is not just about finances. It is about dreaming, planning, and taking that first step with confidence.

In this episode, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Shawn Good, President and CEO of Libro Credit Union, to talk about what’s driving Libro’s strong momentum and what it means for members and communities.

Shawn shares how a purpose-driven, values-based approach continues to guide Libro’s growth, while also focusing on delivering modern, accessible financial services. They talked about building trust in uncertain times and supporting local businesses and families. The conversation highlights the importance of long-term thinking and meaningful relationships.

It’s a thoughtful discussion about resilience, trust, and why having the right financial partner can make all the difference.

In this episode of the Money Made Better podcast, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Jason Dearing, Regional Director at Libro Credit Union, and Steve Pellarin, Executive Director of the London Small Business Centre.

Together, they discuss the Foodpreneur Advantage program and the newly launched Go To Market Incubator Program, two initiatives designed to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into real life. These programs give aspiring entrepreneurs the knowledge, experience, and support they need to build confidence and turn their ideas into action.

Through stories of local success and lessons learned along the way, Jason and Steve highlight the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs, creating opportunities, and ensuring small businesses have the resources they need to grow.

In this episode of the Money Made Better podcast, host Lynzee Barnett sits down with Dave Haas, entrepreneur and co-owner of Lungovita Beach Retreat, to explore the connection between entrepreneurship, wellness, and creating a life with purpose.

Dave shares his journey from launching his first business as a teenager to building a nature based retreat experience designed to help people slow down, disconnect from daily stress, and reconnect with themselves. Along the way, he reflects on the role fear plays in decision making, why taking risks is often necessary for growth, and how entrepreneurship can become a powerful form of personal development.

From stress tracking and wellness to courage and business ownership, this conversation offers a thoughtful reminder that sometimes the biggest opportunities begin when we choose to take the first step.

Saving for education can feel overwhelming, whether you're planning years ahead or preparing for the next semester.

In this episode, Lynzee Barnett sits down with Paul McQueen, Vice President, Wealth Management at Libro Credit Union and our summer student Victor Aquino to talk about the realities of paying for post-secondary education. Through personal experiences and practical advice, they explore RESPs, scholarships, student funding, and why having a plan matters more than having all the answers.

It's an honest conversation about financial education, planning ahead, and taking the first step toward your goals.