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Gifts of Grace: Reclaiming Simplicity During the Holidays

Beyond Budgets Podcast

Release Date: 11/20/2025

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The holidays are here, and with them come emotions ranging from joy to overwhelm. In this heart-centered episode, host Deb Meyer shares a timely message to help parents slow down, align spending with values, and create lasting peace during the Christmas season.

She opens with a beautiful rendition of the Shaker hymn “’Tis the Gift to Be Simple” and explores how the simplicity it speaks of can serve as a financial and spiritual guidepost through the noise of Black Friday, gift-giving pressure, and packed family schedules.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • (10:36) A values-based framework for choosing gifts that foster connection

  • (8:21) The power of automating gift savings and how to start in January

  • (12:52) Ideas for experience-based gifts

  • (15:17)Catholic resources for Advent to nurture faith amid the hustle

  • (18:14) How generosity through time, talent, and treasure can reshape your family’s holiday rhythm

 

Deb also highlights Chelsea Williams’ insight from episode 51: that 80% of money decisions are perspective, not math—and how that truth becomes even more relevant during emotionally charged seasons.

Featured Resources

Listener Challenge
Take the values exercise and review your holiday gift list. Ask: Does this reflect who we are and the values we want to pass on to our children?

Don’t forget to share the episode with a friend who’s feeling the pressure of the season. Help them find peace through perspective and purpose!

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

Founder of WorthyNest®, helping faith-driven parents build financial plans that reflect their values.

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