Apple Podcasts
Google Podcasts
Spotify
StitcherFrugality is not a dirty F-word that so many people associate it with. In this episode, we are chatting about the heart of what frugality means to us (our “frugal manifesto” if you will!). We’re flipping the script on frugality and ditching the idea that it’s all about restriction. Instead, we’re talking about how being intentional with our money, time, energy, and space can actually lead to a fuller, more satisfying life.
You are always spending something when you consume, whether it is time, money, physical space, mental energy, or natural resources.
Sponsors:
Good advice. Like always having an extra roll of toilet paper, snacks, and phone charger nearby. There’s some things we just need to take heed of. LIKE THIS ADVICE: Keep your savings in a high yield savings account like the one we use at CIT. They’re an online bank which means they can offer you the highest APY since they don’t have the overhead of brick and mortar banks. You earn money on your money monthly at frugalfriendspodcast.com/CIT. THAT’S GOOD ADVICE!
Check out some relevant episodes
Getting what you need for free
Frugal living is all about being smart with our limited resources: money, time, space, energy, and the environment. Start by asking yourself: Do I really need it? Can I borrow it? Think about what you have that others might need for a short time like tools, baby gear, books, or kitchen gadgets and let people know. The more you share, the more others will be inclined to return the favor!
You can also tap into local resources like Buy Nothing, Freecycle, Nextdoor, or neighborhood Facebook groups for swapping and sharing. Plus, apps like Fetch Rewards, Ibotta, Rakuten, and Upside are perfect for earning cashback on everything from groceries to gas.
Finding it for low-cost
When we can’t get something for free, our next move is finding it for a low cost, ideally 50% off or more. That means thinking secondhand first: check out thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, pawn shops, and consignment stores before buying new.
If something breaks, try fixing it before replacing it. A quick YouTube search can teach you just about any DIY repair. You’d be surprised how affordable and satisfying a fix can be! And when you do need to spend, aim for quality over cheap or bulk. Bonus idea: try a meal swap with friends to save time, money, and add a little variety to your week.
Hunting deals
When secondhand isn’t an option, the hunt for a great deal is on. Websites like Groupon, LivingSocial, and LocalFlavor offer discounts on local restaurants, services, and experiences. For everyday savings, Brad’s Deals, Slickdeals, DealNews, and Offers.com highlight trusted deals across a wide range of categories. RetailMeNot, CouponCabin, and Krazy Coupon Lady are great for stacking promo codes, coupons, and cashback offers. Seated rewards you with gift cards for dining at partner restaurants, and LetsGetOffline helps you find fun, low-cost things to do nearby.
On the app side, Too Good To Go, Flipp, and RebateKey offer savings on food, groceries, and online purchases.
Intentional Spending is Frugal Spending
If something can’t be found for free, secondhand, or on sale and it’s still something truly wanted or needed, then buying it full price without guilt is completely valid. When a purchase aligns with personal values, like supporting a local maker or small business, it might even make sense to skip the deal-hunting altogether. Guilt often creeps in when a purchase hasn’t been fully thought through, so understanding one’s money mindset and values can lead to more confident, peaceful spending.
How did you become “frugal?”
For Jen, it was the moment she realized that frugality isn’t about a race to the bottom when it comes to spending. For Jill, the turning point was when her grandmother would take her to the thrift store at 13 yo.
Bill of The Week
Thank you Kelsey for sharing about how you reduced your phone bill by $28!
Thanks so Much for Listening!
Thanks so much for listening. We love love love reading your kind reviews and we especially loved this one from:
✰✰✰✰✰
Admittedly, it has been a while since I’ve actually finished a book… let alone within the span of two weeks.
BWYL is a fun read full of amazing advice and relatable stories. It feels like a conversation with a friend… one who wants you to feel empowered about your finances and spending. Jen and Jill not only acknowledge that the old standby “financial advice” to simply just not spend money is impossible, but they challenge you to really figure out how you can and want to spend money in your current season of life.
The lightning rounds and action steps at the end of each chapter are what sets this book apart and helps you internalize their words and advice. I had so many revelations when I actually took the time to look at the deeper meaning behind my spending and coming up with creative ways to spend less and get more of what I really want. Thank you, Jen and Jill! I will continue to recommend this book to friends and strangers alike!
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. 😉
