In this episode of the Know Your Why podcast, Jason Balara speaks with John De Goey, a veteran portfolio manager, author, and outspoken consumer advocate in the financial services industry. John shares his unconventional journey from aspiring government worker to respected financial advisor and author, and why he has dedicated his career to protecting and educating consumers. The discussion dives deep into the hidden costs of investment products, today’s market cycles and economic pressures, and the critical importance of diversification and liquidity in portfolio management. John emphasizes evidence-based strategies, the dangers of blindly trusting market narratives, and the need for investors to truly understand the financial landscape in order to achieve sustainable long-term success.

Key Highlights:

- John De Goey brings more than 32 years of experience in finance and portfolio management.

- Many financial products are designed to maximize profits for institutions, not consumers.

- Hidden costs in investments can erode returns significantly over time.

- Diversification remains one of the most reliable tools for managing investment risk.

- Current market valuations are historically high, requiring caution from investors.

- Liquidity is often misunderstood and overemphasized in consumer investment decisions.

- Historical market cycles offer insights for managing today’s financial uncertainties.

- Consumer advocacy plays a vital role in shaping a fairer financial services industry.

- The belief that markets "always go up" can lead to complacency and poor decisions.

- Evidence-based, data-driven decision-making is essential for long-term financial success.

John’s perspective challenges conventional wisdom and empowers investors to think critically about their financial decisions. His message is clear: true success in finance requires more than chasing returns — it requires clarity, discipline, and the courage to question industry norms. This conversation will inspire you to reexamine your investment strategies, demand transparency, and take greater ownership of your financial future.

Get in touch with John:

Email: jdegoey@designedsecurities.ca

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@makebetterwealthdecisions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johndegoey/

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/