Episodes

  • A Look at the Non-Financial Aspects of Retirement Planning

    A Look at the Non-Financial Aspects of Retirement Planning
    Jan 8 2026
    When planning retirement, many of us focus on the financial aspects of preparing for retirement. But if you only look at the financial part of the process, then you might be neglecting some other key elements of getting ready for retirement. On this episode of Uncommon Sense, we talk with Terry Olexyn CPA, CMA, founder of PEAK Retirement Solutions Ltd. Terry shares his insights and expertise on the benefits of factoring-in considerations such as personal goals, self-awareness, "healthspan vs. lifespan", and other components of a well-rounded retirement plan. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    30 mins
  • Celebrating Success: Conversations at the November 28 CFE Writers Celebration

    Celebrating Success: Conversations at the November 28 CFE Writers Celebration
    Dec 18 2025
    In November, Alberta's CPA profession celebrated the achievements of 443 successful Alberta writers of the profession's fall Common Final Examination (CFE). Passing this exam is a major step before CPA candidates earn their full designation. On November 28, 2025 in Edmonton, many of these soon-to-be CPAs gathered with their employers and other dignitaries at a luncheon, hosted by CPA Alberta. And Uncommon Sense was there! This "person on the street" episode features a collection of real-time comments and perspectives, ranging from tears of joy to cheers of delight. Thanks to everyone who took the time to chat with us, and thanks as well to CPA Alberta for accommodating our podcast crew. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    38 mins
  • Investing for Canadians,Part 2

    Investing for Canadians,Part 2
    Dec 11 2025
    In part 2 of our discussion on investing, Ryan Gubic CPA, CGA discusses the concept of risk when it comes to investing, and explores the different ways that people manage and accept risk. He also sheds some light on what he calls a "holistic" approach to investment and financial planning, focusing on how people's values and personal goals help shape their investment decisions. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    31 mins
  • Investing for Canadians Part 1

    Investing for Canadians Part 1
    Nov 27 2025
    Ryan Gubic CPA, CGA and owner of MRG Wealth Management, helps us understand how to approach investing and how it can set you up for financial security. In Part 1 of our two-part discussion, Ryan talks about the fundamentals of investing and walks listeners through the ways a person can begin investing, some tips for smart investing, and how investing can help you prepare for retirement. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    30 mins
  • A Look at the Hesje Observatory: Brian Hesje's Legacy for Stargazers

    A Look at the Hesje Observatory: Brian Hesje's Legacy for Stargazers
    Nov 13 2025
    On this episode, we're chatting with Alex Gulay about the Hesje Observatory, one of the many legacy projects in Alberta that the late Brian Hesje FCPA, FCA funded during his lifetime. Alex is the Programming Coordinator at the Hesje Observatory, which is located at the University of Alberta's Augustana Miquelon Lake Research Station. In her conversation with host Jessica de Groot, Alex talks about the stargazing opportunities offered by the observatory, the facility's contributions to education and research, and the lasting impact that Brian's gift has made to astronomers in Alberta. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    28 mins
  • CPAs and Wellness: Life's A Marathon

    CPAs and Wellness: Life's A Marathon
    Oct 30 2025
    Robyn Hamilton CPA, CA is a busy professional who has a demanding and rewarding passion outside of work: marathon-running. She's participated in marathons from Edmonton to Berlin to Tokyo, and has learned how the focus and resilience required of a marathon runner can also make a difference career-wise. On this episode, Robyn talks about her life as a runner, the priority she places on fitness, and some of the surprising moments of human connection that one can experience in a marathon. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    32 mins
  • CPAs in the Community: The Connection Between Arts and Accounting

    CPAs in the Community: The Connection Between Arts and Accounting
    Oct 16 2025
    Whether serving on the Board of the Calgary Performing Arts Festival or honing her dance skills, Sarah is equally at home in the dance studio or the boardroom. On this episode of Uncommon Sense, Sarah talks about her passion for the arts, her commitment to volunteerism, and how those endeavours mesh with being a CPA. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    24 mins
  • CPAs in the Community: The Role of CPA Firms in Small Towns

    CPAs in the Community: The Role of CPA Firms in Small Towns
    Oct 2 2025
    CPA firms in small towns are more than simply local businesses – they are fully engaged in the life and success of their towns. Guest Sarah Vodden CPA, CGA is a partner at Hendrickson Black LLP. In this episode, Sarah discusses the many ways she and her colleagues participate in their communities and support their clients. On a more-personal level, Sarah talks about her pride in her Métis heritage and the importance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. With warmth and humour, Sarah gives us a glimpse into a life and career rich in fulfilment. Let us know what you think of this week's episode. Take our survey >> https://bit.ly/4kNI2NJ
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    27 mins