How can you plan your holiday spending now to avoid starting the new year in debt?
In this holiday-themed episode, Ben breaks down practical ways to enjoy the Christmas season without relying on credit cards. He explains how marketing traps lead families into debt, outlines a simple “No Credit Christmas” game plan, and shares strategies for avoiding financial regret in January.
Topics Ben Matthews explores in this episode:
(0:21) Why planning your holiday budget early can save you from a January debt spiral.
(1:08) How retailers use nostalgia, music, and guilt to push consumers into overspending.
(2:43) Setting a “holiday salary cap” and sticking to it to prevent credit card creep.
(3:31) Why cash-only spending helps you feel the true cost of purchases.
(4:21) How to prioritize people over price tags.
(5:00) Teaching your kids how interest works.
(6:45) Overcoming holiday FOMO and learning to value memories over material things.
(8:25) What to do if you’ve already overspent—and how to recover fast with a January payoff plan.
Share your holiday budgeting wins using #NoCreditChristmas
Learn more: https://debtsucks.info
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The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.
This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/
