Christmas is meant to be joyful, generous, and full of connection — yet for many people, it leaves behind a heavy financial hangover that can linger well into the new year.

In this episode of Spending Made Easy, Ron Fiedler is joined by resident spending planner Samantha Boardman to explore why Christmas continues to catch people out financially, even when we know it’s coming.

Together, they unpack the emotional side of money — the pressure, the regret, and the shame that often follow festive overspending, and explain why this cycle repeats year after year.

Importantly, they challenge the idea that the problem is a lack of discipline, revealing instead that it’s often a lack of planning and clarity.

Listeners are guided through what to do when that first bank statement arrives and panic sets in.

Sam explains how spending plans, not budgets, can transform financial stress into calm, control, and confidence, without restriction or guilt.

This episode is for anyone who wants this year to feel different.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready to take control of your money, this conversation offers practical steps, reassurance, and hope.

Resident Expert: Samantha Boardman

Samantha Boardman is a professional Spending Planner and the founder of Spending Made Easy, a practical and compassionate approach to money that helps people feel calm, confident, and in control of their finances without guilt, restriction, or punishment.

With years of experience working one-on-one with individuals, couples, and families, Samantha specialises in helping people break the cycle of financial stress, particularly around recurring pressure points such as Christmas, birthdays, annual bills, and everyday living costs.

Her work is grounded in real life — recognising that money is emotional, personal, and often overwhelming, especially in today’s economic climate.

Unlike traditional budgeting methods, Samantha teaches spending plans, not budgets.

Her philosophy is simple but powerful: people don’t fail at money — money systems fail people.

By creating clear, realistic spending plans that reflect how people actually live, Samantha helps her clients uncover hidden surplus, reduce anxiety, and build long-term financial confidence.

Samantha is also the author of a practical, real-world book on spending planning, where she shares her personal experiences, professional insights, and proven strategies for managing money without deprivation.

In the book, she openly discusses how planning ahead — even with small, consistent steps — can completely change the way people experience money, special occasions, and life milestones. Her writing reflects the same supportive, judgment-free approach she brings to her client work.

As the fortnightly resident expert on Spending Made Easy on Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network, Samantha regularly shares accessible money conversations, tools, and mindset shifts that empower listeners to take action — no matter where they’re starting from. She is passionate about removing shame from financial discussions and creating safe spaces where people can ask for help and move forward with clarity.

Samantha also runs highly sought-after hands-on workshops, where participants are guided step-by-step through building their own spending plans in a supportive, welcoming environment.

🌐 Website: https://www.spendingmadeeasy.com.au

📅 Bookings & Callbacks: Available via the website

📘 Author: Spending Plan–focused personal finance book (referenced in episode)

Host: Ron Fiedler

Senior Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Podcast City

Ron is a radio and podcast host, producer, and media mentor passionate about giving people a voice and creating conversations that educate, empower, and connect communities.

🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au

Produced by:

Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network

🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au

Producer: Ron Fiedler