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StitcherWe’re about to get so real—and by that, we mean we’re taking deinfluencing to the next level. In this episode, Jen and Jill react to actual videos of how influencers try to get us to spend. They break down what you’re seeing on social media, what it’s doing to you psychologically, and why you don’t need to spend money on Memorial Day.
What you have is fine.
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Memorial Day Sales Statistics
Memorial Day weekend has become a major spending moment. In 2024, most people planned to celebrate and for many, that meant shopping. Food, drinks, decorations, and dining out were all popular purchases. Even gas stations and Walmart saw big boosts in traffic. It’s a clear reminder that holidays often come with built-in pressure to spend but you don’t need to give in to enjoy the day.
Do you have to buy a new outfit? Nope.
In this video, Jen notices that while the creator claims the outfit is from her own closet, the Amazon links in the caption say otherwise. To Jill, it seems more about selling than a genuine reminder to use what you have.
For them, this ties back to tradition and social norms, where ads and influencers push the idea that Memorial Day is the time to buy big-ticket items.
Throwing a big party? Don’t have to.
Jen thinks social media sets unrealistic expectations for Memorial Day, making you feel like you always have to keep up. But it’s also a reminder that many of them earn money through affiliate links, so their content is really designed to encourage shopping, not just to share honest advice.
Unnecessary Decor? Nope, nope.
Besides food and parties, Memorial Day decorating is trending on social media. Jen and Jill feel some of it is over the top and unnecessary, sometimes even just for show or to stir reactions. Jill also points out that emotional appeals to patriotism are linked to shopping, with limited-time offers adding pressure to buy quickly.
In the end, Jen and Jill remind us that our willpower can only go so far when we’re constantly bombarded with this kind of content. They suggest asking yourself, “What’s really going on here? What’s the marketing tactic? Is this about real life or just business?” and encourage curating your social media feed to support what’s truly beneficial for you.
What’s your biggest sales tactic ick?
Jen’s is fear based marketing. While Jill can’t stand emotional appeal like selling a lifestyle.
Bill of The Week
Thank you Em for sharing about your credit card bill being high and needing to use savings to pay off that card – BUT you found ways to earn more, save aggressively and were able to navigate
Thanks so Much for Listening!
Thanks so much for listening. We love love love reading your kind reviews of our book Buy What You Love Without Going Broke and we especially loved this one from:
✰✰✰✰✰
Everything I've ever wanted in a personal finance book!
This book is so relatable and helpful! From all the examples / stories given to the action steps and journal prompts at the end of each chapter, the authors not only helped me understand the psychology behind spending, but how to make better spending decisions. I feel so much more confident about my money and equipped to reach my longer term financial goals. For anyone looking to curb impulse spending, pay down debt, or just experience more freedom with their money without all the strict budgeting, this book is for you!
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