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StitcherWe’ve all got that drawer, closet, or random corner filled with things we barely use anymore. But somehow, we keep bringing more stuff home. In this episode, Jen and Jill get honest about the purchases that didn’t live up to expectations, from overhyped products to things that simply aren’t worth the money. They also explore why sometimes the smartest purchase is the one we skip.
Things are just getting worse and worse because of planned obsolescence.
Sponsors:
- Veg-o-matic. A classic example of a gimmicky product that got people to spend before they knew if it actually worked. That’s exactly why we created Spend Smart, a personalized coaching app that helps you understand your spending triggers, resist impulse purchases, and build better money habits through daily lessons, challenges, and coaching. Get started at frugalfriendspodcast.com/app and use code FRUGAL for 20% off.
The Junk We Don’t Even Realize We’re Buying
There is so much junk that shows up in our daily lives that we tend to ignore, and eventually, all of it starts to accumulate. Jen and Jill talk about everyday digital clutter like duplicate photos, unused apps, and hard drives that may only last five years, as well as an Airbnb disappointment story that highlighted how some renters can cut corners on security and accommodations.
Their takeaway is to always check the reviews, see what past guests are saying, and make sure there’s a solid number of reviews from people who have actually stayed there.
More Junk We’re Tired of Buying
Jen and Jill call out some seriously questionable purchases, from AI-generated pickle T-shirts and stickers to tech companies making products obsolete by removing features. They also questioned the logic behind spending $500 on polyester clothes that you can’t even toss in the wash. Jill encourages choosing higher-quality materials instead of paying premium prices for something that doesn’t necessarily last.
What junk is in your trunk?
Jill always has reusable bags, a wagon, and a backpack with a bathing suit and towels in her car. Jen, on the other hand, has a box of peaches, a monster truck, a stroller, a toddler potty, Easter eggs, a plastic Costco bin, and a couple of things she meant to return but forgot about.
Bill of the Week
Thanks Allison for sharing your bill about yearly eye Dr. check-up and paying nothing because you’re OLDER NOW!
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Wish you had a little help in the moment when you’re trying to decide whether to spend or save? Check out the Spend Smart app at frugalfriendspodcast.com/app and have your Frugal Friends in your pocket to help you make more intentional spending decisions.
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