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

Welcome to Spending Made Easy, the podcast and radio show that helps you take the stress out of money and feel confident with your finances. In this episode, Ron Fiedler and budgeting expert Samantha Boardman explore a powerful mindset shift: why the word “budget” makes us feel restricted and why a spending plan is the key to financial freedom.

Most of us hear “budget” and immediately think diet—rules, deprivation, and guilt. That negative mindset makes us avoid looking at our finances. A spending plan, on the other hand, creates clarity, flexibility, and peace of mind.

You’ll hear:

• 💡 How language changes emotions: “budget” vs “spending plan”
• 📅 Planning up to 10 years ahead—covering Christmas, tax, and rate rises
• 🏡 Real client wins: mortgage reductions, home upgrades, and even enjoying bill-paying
• 🔄 Why plans adapt quickly to interest rate hikes, utility costs, or tax changes
• 💸 How overestimating bills creates buffers and reduces stress
• 🌍 Why it works for young people, families, and those starting over
• 🎯 The “dream fund” approach—save first, choose the purpose later
• 🙌 Staying in control: no one else touches your bank account

Ron and Sam also discuss how a spending plan gives you control even in uncertain times—such as elections, changing tax benefits, or rising costs of living. With a plan, you can adjust quickly and still feel in charge of your money.

This is not about spreadsheets or financial jargon. It’s about changing how you feel about money, removing overwhelm, and putting a simple tool in place that helps you achieve your goals. Many clients even say they now look forward to paying bills—because they know exactly what’s due and that the money is there.

🌟 Key Takeaways

• Swap “budget” for “spending plan” to reduce stress.
• Plan ahead so bills and big events are never a surprise.
• Overestimate expenses to build buffers.
• Keep surplus in your account, not the utility companies’.
• Teach young people early for lifelong money skills.
• A spending plan adapts as your life changes.

🛠 Resources & Links

• Visit spendingmadeeasy.com.au
• Request a free callback
• DIY software or coaching packages available
• Coffee chats in Adelaide for locals
• Follow Spending Made Easy on your favourite podcast app.
• Produced by Podcast City Business & Lifestyle Network.

📌 Disclaimer

This podcast provides general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consider your own circumstances or seek a qualified professional.

Credits

• Hosts: Ron Fiedler & Samantha Boardman
• Producer: Podcast City
• Music: Licensed theme

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow/subscribe, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share with a friend who wants less stress and more control over their money.

👉 Ready to start your own spending plan? Visit spendingmadeeasy.com.au.

In this episode of Spending Made Easy, Ron Fiedler sits down with budgeting expert Samantha Boardman to explore the crucial topic of distinguishing between wants and needs.

Sam explains that "needs" are the basics essential for survival—food, shelter, and water—while "wants" are non-essential items like the latest gadgets or extra shoes.

Sam suggests that the key to managing finances is shifting your mindset, rethinking how you categorise these purchases, and considering whether something is a genuine need or just a passing desire.

As we move further into the conversation, Sam offers practical advice for balancing indulgences with responsible budgeting.

By setting aside a fixed amount each week—whether it’s $20 or $100—listeners can enjoy the occasional treat without derailing their financial goals.

The idea is to plan for these wants, rather than impulse-buying, ensuring your spending aligns with your overall financial strategy. Sam encourages listeners to consider how future-proofing your financial plans can make space for small indulgences without neglecting essentials.

Here are short chapter summaries for the podcast episode on "Wants vs Needs," with one-line explanations and time stamps:

Chapter Summaries

Defining 'Wants' and 'Needs'(02:31 - 06:00)

Clarification of the key differences between essential needs and discretionary wants.

- Why It’s Important to Know the Difference (06:01 - 09:00)

Explaining how understanding the difference can help with budgeting and financial freedom.

- Strategies for Managing Wants in Your Budget (09:01 - 13:00)

Practical advice for balancing non-essential desires within a responsible financial plan.

- Real-Life Examples of Wants vs Needs (13:01 - 17:00)

Examples of everyday spending decisions illustrate the difference between wants and needs.

Overcoming Emotional Spending (17:01 - 21:00)

Discussing how emotions can influence our spending choices and tips for staying disciplined.

Host and Producer: Ron Fielder

Web: podcastcity.com.au

Email: ron@podcastcity.com.au

Mobile: ‭0491 633 320‬

Co-Host: Samantha Boardman

Web: spendingmadeeasy.com.au

Email: hello@spendingmadeeasy.com.au

Mobile: 0404 468 525