157: Choose Intention Over Impulse For A Happier Holiday Budget
Podcast Guest: Amanda Christensen
December 1st, 2025
Listen to the Show:
In this Episode
Financial counselor Amanda Christensen shares smart, realistic strategies to help couples stay on budget during the holidays—without losing the joy. In this episode, she covers impulse spending traps, simple budgeting styles, holiday game plans, cash-only tricks, price-tracking tools, shared gift lists, and how to avoid the stress that overspending creates in relationships. Learn how to create a holiday budget that actually sticks, stay connected as a couple, and protect your financial wellness through a season full of tempting deals and hidden expenses.
“The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.”
Time Markers
00:04 – Why holiday spending gets stressful
01:22 – Welcome and guest introduction
02:27 – Impulse buying traps & fixes
05:26 – Budgeting styles and communication
07:29 – Balancing magic and affordability
08:15 – Creating a holiday game plan
10:21 – Using cash to curb spending
11:04 – Money beliefs from childhood
12:56 – Best price-tracking tools
13:35 – Four steps to a holiday budget
16:05 – Shared note for gift tracking
17:17 – Apps for holiday spending
20:31 – Amazon wish lists for groups
22:02 – Planning for hidden expenses
24:01 – Revolving savings for holidays
25:58 – Where to find Amanda’s resources
27:48 – Amanda’s mindset shift takeaway
29:04 – Liz’s takeaway
29:33 – Dave’s takeaway
30:30 – Closing thoughts and wrap-up
Insights
Amanda's
We often compare ourselves to others during the holidays, especially with social media in the mix. The mantra “I have what I need, and what I have is enough” helps refocus on intentional choices, joy in giving, and avoiding comparison. It’s a grounding reminder to stay centered on your own plan rather than measuring yourself against others.
Liz’s
I really appreciate the idea of using shared Amazon lists. Involving the whole group—especially parents—is such a wise, helpful way to simplify gifting and make the holidays smoother for everyone.
Dave’s
The key is intentionality—choosing a system that works for you rather than mindlessly swiping and dealing with stress later. Whether it's a shared note, an app, or a spreadsheet, communicating and planning together takes effort but pays off in financial, emotional, and relationship health.
About Amanda
Amanda H. Christensen, AFC is an Accredited Financial Counselor, Extension Professor and County Director in Morgan County, Utah. She is the creator of the Utah Money Matters blog and social media platforms and co-author of the USU Extension Money Master Online Course. Amanda provides leadership to all USU Extension-sponsored programs in Morgan County.
Amanda's Resources
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