Paying for Post-Secondary: A Canadian Parent’s Guide to RESPs, Student Debt & Smart Choices | Dan Bortolotti

With tuition and living costs climbing fast, parents are asking: is university still worth it? Christi Rae sits down with Dan Bortolotti, cohost of the Rational Reminder podcast, financial planner at PWL, and former managing editor of Today’s Parent, to explore how Canadian families can plan smarter for post-secondary costs.From RESPs and government grants to managing shortfalls, student debt, and tough trade-offs, Dan shares practical strategies for every stage of saving — whether you started early or are just getting started.Topics covered:- RESP essentials and how to maximize the 20% government grant- How to invest inside your child’s RESP (and when to reduce risk)- What to do if you haven’t saved enough or at all- Using TFSAs or home equity responsibly- Teaching kids financial responsibility in their education journeyA calm, clear guide for parents who want to help their kids build a strong future—without derailing their own.Share this with another parent, and listen with your teen.Episode Links:https://rationalreminder.cahttps://pwlcapital.com/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Post-Secondary Education Costs00:28 Evaluating the Worth of Higher Education03:42 Scenario 1: Full Post Secondary Savings with RESPs06:23 Investment Strategies for RESPs08:48 Scenario 2: Partial Post Secondary Savings11:20 Tapping into Home Equity for Education?13:45 RESP Flexibility15:39 Scenario 3: No Post Secondary Savings16:49 Final Thoughts on Education Funding Strategies18:21 Consequences For Failing a Class