E35: I Was Too Broke to Buy Gifts and Did This Instead

In this episode, Avram Gonzales looks back on a Christmas from 15 years ago, when he was a broke college student living at home with no money to buy gifts. Rather than showing up empty-handed, he decided to lean into something he loved—tie-dye—and make handmade gifts for everyone in his life.

What started as a cost-saving idea quickly turned into a demanding week of long nights, endless prep, and far more work than expected. Dozens of socks were dyed, cleaned, dried, and packaged, resulting in nearly 30 handmade gifts—many of which friends wore for years until they fell apart.

Looking back, Avram reflects on the two lasting lessons that came from that Christmas. First, handmade gifts often carry more meaning than anything money can buy. Second, time is one of the most valuable resources we have—and once it’s spent, it can’t be reclaimed.

This episode is a reflection on creativity, generosity, and the balance between giving from the heart and honoring the value of your time.