It’s no secret—Americans are set to spend a mind-blowing $1.3 trillion this holiday season. But here’s the real question: how much of that spending is driven by guilt, stress, or emotional habits you just can’t shake? In this episode, I’m joined by Chad Willardson, a Certified Financial Fiduciary (CFF), the President and Founder of Pacific Capital and Platinum Elevated, a five-time bestselling author, and a financial pro who helps 8-9 figure entrepreneurs take control of their money. Together, we’re diving deep into the chaos of holiday spending and how you can finally break the cycle of overspending. We’ll talk about why guilt spending feels so hard to stop, why experiences almost always beat material gifts, and how to protect your wallet while still enjoying the season. If you’ve ever felt like your finances are out of control during the holidays, this episode is your permission slip to flip the script and start fresh. What You’ll Learn: Why emotional spending takes over during the holidays—and how to stop it. The dangers of guilt spending and its long-term impact on your finances. How to prioritize meaningful experiences over mindless shopping. Practical tips for planning your spending, even last-minute. How to use past financial regrets to fuel smarter decisions this year. LINKS Chad's website and books Chad on LinkedIn Pacific Capital CONNECT WITH SHANNAH FREEBIE: Show Me the Money Workshop  FREEBIE: She’s Got Wealth Workshop Follow me on Instagram  Courses + Workshops + Money Coaching Information SPONSORS Thanks to Jenny Kayne for sponsoring the show. Get 15% off by going to http://www.jennykayne.com/etm15.  Thanks to Money Picked for sponsoring the show. To schedule a FREE meeting to figure out your next financial steps, go to http://www.moneypickle.com/etm.  Thanks to Wildgrain for sponsoring the show. Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to http://www.wildgrain.com/etm to start your subscription. Thanks to Mint Mobile for sponsoring the show. To get your new 3-month premium wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month, go to http://www.mintmobile.com/ETM . Thanks to OneSkin for sponsoring the show. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ETM at https://www.oneskin.co/  Thanks to Quince for sponsoring the show. Go to http://www.quince.com/etm for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.  Thanks to NerdWallet for sponsoring the show. Don’t wait to make smart financial decisions. Compare and find smarter credit cards, savings accounts, and more today at www.nerdwallet.com. Thanks to Monarch for sponsoring the show. ​​After trying out Monarch for myself, I understand why it’s the top-rated personal finance app. Listeners of this show will get an extended thirty-day free trial when you go to www.monarchmoney.com/ETM.  Thanks to ButcherBox for sponsoring the show. Sign up today at www.butcherbox.com/etm and use code ETM to get $20 off your first order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices