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StitcherTake what resonates and leave what doesn’t. But this is the reality and you might want to prepare before things get really uncontrollable. In this episode, we’re going to dive into 5 predictions we have for what you can expect to see financially in 2026 and how to handle it with grace.
We have the ability to pivot, morph, and be flexible to change.
2026 Economy Money Predictions
Jen and Jill share a few 2026 money forecasts that might sound like no big deal but could quietly affect your everyday life and are worth preparing for. They cover predictions around a possible recession, mortgage interest rates, ongoing inflation, jobs, and even the growing role of artificial intelligence in our lives.
These predictions aren’t meant to create panic or take away from the life ahead. They’re simply a reminder of what could happen based on trends and patterns from past years. Things may change—or they may not—but understanding what these shifts could mean for you helps you stay ready and make smarter choices moving forward.
Overcoming Money Predictions Without the Panic
Instead of panic, Jen and Jill encourage a more mindful approach to these forecasts. A neutral economy doesn’t mean things suddenly become affordable and it definitely doesn’t mean we can be complacent. In fact, costs may still rise, just at a slower pace. That’s why building a stronger financial foundation matters, not just for ourselves, but so we’re in a better position to help others when we can.
They also touch on unemployment potentially declining, making this a key moment to showcase your skills. Skill-based training is gaining momentum, and those who invest in learning now can stand out. Lastly, they highlight artificial intelligence as an ally. Something that can make life easier and more efficient when you learn how to use it to your advantage.
What’s chopped for 2026?
Being underpaid is what’s chopped for Jill. While for Jen, hustling is chopped.
Bill of The Week
Thanks Jascilyn for sharing your bill about graduating your masters program with $0 debt AND reducing your medical bill from $759 to $99.
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:
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Reviewing my spend helped me identify unhealthy triggers
Love the lightning round and action steps at the end of every chapter. It helps you actually apply the concepts from the chapters. I read it when it 1st came out and plan to reread on its birthday. I have conducted a 90-day transaction inventory on multiple occasions. Taking their advice and looking at the transactions several different ways (and comparing them to my schedule) helped me identify some things that were triggering unnecessary spending that was impacting my wallet and, maybe more importantly, my health. Very easy to read and an actionable book, even if you are already fairly good with your finances.
If you want to check out our monthly challenge community head to frugalfriendspodcast.com/club to see what challenge we have coming up next.
Keep leaving us reviews on iTunes or Stitcher, and sending the screenshot to reviews@frugalfriendspodcast.com. And don’t forget to share your favorite quote from the episode by using the hashtag #FrugalFriendsNote. 😉