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Black Friday, Budgets & the Business of Gift-Giving


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This week, Krista and Samantha cover a little bit of everything — from Black Friday and fashion to ADHD, business strategy, and holiday prep. It’s a full-circle conversation about personal growth, clarity, and how both hosts are navigating a busy season while trying to stay present (and maybe look good doing it).

Samantha shares reflections from her birthday week — new outfits, intentional business planning, and what’s next for client engagement and growth. Krista opens up about ADHD and self-acceptance, and how she’s learning to work with her brain instead of against it. Together, they unpack everything from time management and consumerism to the evolving art of holiday gift-giving — debating online shopping, supporting local businesses, and whether experience gifts really are the new standard.

It’s equal parts introspection and shopping list — a mix of clarity, humour, and real talk about the pressure to “do it all” before December hits.


Takeaways & Merit Badges Earned:

🎂 Birthdays can be a catalyst for reflection and reinvention.

👗 Personal style evolves — and it’s okay to change your mind.

🧠 ADHD requires self-compassion and intentional planning.

💻 Managing client work and clarity is key in busy seasons.

💬 Balance looks different every year — and that’s okay.

🎯 Clear business strategy > constant busyness.

🎁 Gift-giving can be thoughtful and practical.

🛍️ Online shopping can feel overwhelming — and that’s valid.

🏪 Supporting local businesses creates real community impact.

💳 Rewards points and pre-planning can make holiday shopping easier.

🎠 Experience gifts can be more meaningful than more stuff.

🎄 It’s okay to want things — and ask for them.

💞 Family traditions matter more than perfect wrapping.

💡 A universal gift registry? Not the worst idea.


💌 Follow us on Instagram: @MamaMeritBadge

⭐️ Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who’s navigating holiday chaos with a side of self-reflection — or leave us a review to spread the cheer (no gift wrap required).

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Mama Merit BadgeBy Krista Olynyk and Samantha MacKinnon