Controlling your spending is hard to do. On every episode of Frugal Friends, we'll try to help you gain a little more control on one aspect of the countless directions your money is being pulled toward through frugality and a few laughs. If you're trying to save money, spend less, adopt minimalism, pay off debt or reach financial independence, we think you'll like the show.
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Want to achieve financial independence without missing out on the fun? FI Minded is for anyone who wants to achieve financial freedom, live life on their own terms, and, most importantly, enjoy the journey along the way! Whether you’re just starting to think about financial independence or already deep into the process, FI Minded gives you the tools and inspiration to make FI a reality - without giving up the things you love. Each episode, we’ll cover topics like: *Financial Independence Str ...
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That lobster bag is everywhere. Your FYP, your DMs, even your dreams. And as summer hits its stride, so does the relentless push to book, buy, and binge every trend in sight. In this episode, we’re calling out the sneaky ways social media makes us want things we don’t need. It’s a fun, eye-opening look at what’s actually worth it versus what’s just…
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The Women Who Disappeared...And Reappeared 63 Years Later | E169
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4:16What would you do if you had to start over, completely from scratch? In this episode, I share the wild true story of Audrey, a woman who vanished in 1962 and was just found alive, 63 years later. Her story sparked a thought experiment: if you had to reinvent yourself, new city, new career, new hobbies, what path would you choose? We’ll explore what…
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How to Save Money on MEAT at the Grocery Store with Jenny Mitich
48:57
48:57
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48:57Calling all meat lovers, this is your time to shine! In this episode, Jen and Jill, along with Jenny Mitich, explore all the ways you can get high-quality meat at a great price. Plus, they share how to stretch it into multiple meals down to the very last bone. No waste, just full tummies and good food. 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/3Z…
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Going Plant-Based on a Budget With Toni Okamoto
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55:21See how eating healthy doesn’t have to be pricey? Very demure, very mindful. If you’ve been wanting to eat a little better, try more veggies, or just stop spending a lot at the grocery store, this episode’s for you. Back with a listener favorite, Toni Okamoto is here to prove that plant-based living doesn’t mean sad meals or empty wallets. 🎙️ Get f…
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Travel Hacks to Upgrade Your Next Vacation (Without Spending More) | E168 Chris Hutchins
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47:27
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47:27I get why some people aren’t into traveling. Long flights crammed in a middle seat, overpriced hotels that smell like smoke, and being miles away from the city center - none of that screams “dream vacation.” Now, I’m past the days of budget airlines and sketchy motels but I’m also not flying first class with lay-down seats or staying in luxury hote…
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We’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. 🎙️ Get full s…
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How to Save Money on Lululemon (& More Fashion Brands!)
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46:32We’re here to remind you: No need to feel guilty about what you bought or what you paid when you’ve gone through the effort to get it at the best price. In this episode, Jen and Jill take you along on Jen’s shopping spree! Jen shares the behind-the-scenes of her mission to find high-quality workout clothes that fit her lifestyle, without overspendi…
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Frugal Ways to Stretch Everyday Products with Hope Ware
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57:31
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57:31Why downgrade when you can stretch that one product you love? A little goes a long way and by that, we mean two more weeks of that beloved shampoo or everyday essential! In this episode, we sit down with Hope Ware to talk about simple ways to stretch what you already have, make things last longer, and save money without sacrificing what works. 🎙️ G…
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Is it OK to Have a Car Payment? & How To Avoid an Auto Loan
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55:53Auto loans aren’t automatically bad. But they’re not automatically good either. In this episode, Jen and Jill talk through when taking on car loan debt makes sense and when it’s a financial trap in disguise. They share their own experiences with auto loans, why a long loan term could cost you big time, and the rising interest rates that might surpr…
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How to Start a Side Hustle in One Month | E167 Nick Loper
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49:51
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49:51For most of us pursuing financial independence, the math is pretty straightforward: earn more, spend less, and invest the difference. But what if you could speed things up and discover a new passion along the way? That’s where side hustles come in. Not only can they give your FI plan a serious income boost, but they also let you explore projects th…
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Start Here to Become Frugal in 2025 | Frugal Living Tips
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46:22
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46:22Frugality 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, …
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How to Save Money on Food: Takeout, Restaurants, & More!
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47:41
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47:41Do you know what’s the secret to a flavorful meal or the perfect snack and drink? Getting it for a price that feels like a total steal! We’re talking free, low-cost, and guilt-free restaurant and takeout deals. In this episode, Jen and Jill share their favorite apps and tips for scoring awesome food that other people made at even better prices! 🎙️ …
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The Tariffs You Should Really Be Paying Attention To | E166
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6:07Tariffs aren’t just for global trade - you can apply the concept to your personal life to protect your time, energy, and values. As we gain more financial freedom, how we spend and make money should evolve too. In this short and reflective episode, I explore the idea of personal tariffs and how I have applied this to things that may seem like a goo…
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How to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel with DeLancey Carson | DIY Kitchen Renovation Tips!
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57:28
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57:28Been dreaming of a kitchen upgrade but haven’t had the sign yet? Consider this as one. In this episode, Jen and Jill sat down with DeLancey to dish out all the DIY-friendly tips you need to start planning without overspending, second-guessing, or hiring a pricey contractor! 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/4cZ1k0k 📘 Order the book here h…
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Let’s not diminish the greatest hits! We know that when boredom hits, it’s easy to spend just to feel something, but free, low-cost, and guilt-free fun can keep that from happening. In this episode Jen and Jill are packed with all the ways you can live life to the fullest without having to spend a lot! 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/4c…
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You’re Financially Free But It Doesn’t Feel Like It | E165 Shannah Game
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30:09
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30:09You’ve run the numbers a hundred times. You’ve built the spreadsheets, projected the growth, and calculated your safe withdrawal rate down to the decimal. On paper, money isn’t an issue. You should feel secure. But you don’t. Because even though the math checks out, the feeling doesn’t. The scarcity mindset, the one that pushed you to save relentle…
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What’s not to love about shopping, right? Waiting for that package to hit your doorstep feels like a mini holiday! But shopping doesn’t have to mean overspending. In this episode, Jen and Jill spill their favorite apps, hacks, and sneaky-smart tricks to help you save money while you shop online. 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/44qmHFk 📘…
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Travel for (Almost) Free: Mastering Credit Card Rewards with Amber Paul
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51:02
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51:02We all have that endless bucket list of places to see, experiences to have, and memories to make. But how do you make those travel dreams happen when you're limited by time and resources? In this episode, Jen, Jill, and Amber Paul are here to guide you through the steps to turn those vacation dreams into reality without letting your credit take a h…
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Nothing like a summer heat wave will remind us how expensive it is to stay cool…literally. But guess what? You don’t need to feel guilty about it at all. In this episode, Jen and Jill are breaking down free, frugal ways to cool your home and your energy costs without feeling guilty! 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/44ldVIG 📘 Order the bo…
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Sustainability doesn’t have to be perfect or cost a thing! When you match mindful choices with what actually works for you, you’re already making a change. In this listener-favorite episode, Jen and Jill are back just in time for Earth Day with frugal, doable ways to love the planet without spending a dime. 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.…
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How to DOUBLE Your Income in One Year | E164 Andrew Giancola
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40:16In my mid-20s, I was making $50,000. Between San Diego’s high housing costs, dating, a car payment, and other expenses, I barely had anything left to put toward financial independence - let alone fast-track it. I was cutting costs everywhere - negotiating bills, rarely eating out, even walking instead of driving. Frugality was helping but man, the …
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Time flies so fast, we’ve already reached our 500th episode! And because change is the only constant thing in the world, Frugal Friends is embracing change for the BEST. So, in this episode, Jen and Jill officially welcome a new era of Frugal Friends with more exciting contents and things to look forward to. Are you ready for it? 🎙️ Get full show n…
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The Ultimate Guide to Frugal Grocery Shopping
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51:05Every year, there’s new ways to save money on grocery shopping and this year is no exception! In this episode, Jen and Jill kick off a new era of Frugal Friends, with fresh strategies to get food for free, at a low cost, on a deal, or guilt-free all while keeping your table full and your budget happy. 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/4iQ…
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Transform Your Budget in 30 Days CHALLENGE
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49:48
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49:48This is not a joke. We are challenging you to transform the way you budget for the next 30 days! We love doing challenges to gamify our finances instead of the boring way of NOT doing it. It’s what we do to help you spend better and understand your spending more. So, in this episode, Jen and Jill look at how you approach spending and help you get b…
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Investing for Financial Freedom: A Woman’s Guide with Nicole Stanley
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47:52With women, anything is possible and that includes making investing work for you! It can be a little intimidating but with the right people with us, it’s actually easier than you think. In this episode, Jen and Jill together with Nicole Stanley of Arise Financial Coaching empowers us by sharing her inspiring journey and breaks down how you can make…
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Welcome to FI Minded (Podcast Rebrand Announcement)
5:58
5:58
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5:58Want to achieve financial independence without missing out on the fun? FI Minded is for anyone who wants to achieve financial freedom, live life on their own terms, and, most importantly, enjoy the journey along the way! Whether you’re just starting to think about financial independence or already deep into the process, FI Minded gives you the tool…
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Is Real Estate the Best Path to Financial Independence? | E163 Chad Carson
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50:58
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50:58Is Real Estate the Best Path to Financial Independence? As a die-hard index fund investor, I used to have a clear answer. But after researching Chad Carson’s “small but mighty” real estate philosophy, I’m starting to see the potential. While I still prefer the hands-off nature of index funds, especially as I focus on growing my income - I can see r…
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Tips to Succeed With Your Low-Buy Year and Combat Overconsumption!
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46:04
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46:04If a No-Buy Year or No-Spend Challenge didn’t go as planned, that’s okay! You’re not alone in this and it doesn’t mean you failed, it just might not be the right approach for you. But this? Might be. In this episode, Jen and Jill dive into the concept of Low-Buy Year and tips on how you can build a habit that actually changes your spending game. 🎙️…
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Insights on Credit Card Debt: What You Should Consider
46:54
46:54
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46:54Some things just won’t quit—like credit card debt. It lingers, piles up, and keeps charging you for sticking around. According to our survey, one common goal for many in our community is paying off debt. And we know that this is one of the most dangerous kinds. So in this episode, Jen and Jill break down how credit cards really work and what you ca…
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Commuting with an E-Bike (in any weather!) with Kevin Ha
55:22
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55:22Imagine a commute with zero traffic. Think of all the things you could get done instead of wasting hours stuck behind the wheel. It’s becoming less sustainable, less efficient, and honestly, less fun. That’s why in this episode, Jen and Jill are joined by Kevin Ha to spill the magic and wonders of e-bikes and how they can transform any journey in a…
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The Science Behind How Simplicity Impacts Your Money
1:00:55
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1:00:55In life, we often say less is more and that "more" is the abundance that comes from making space for what truly matters. And when simplicity comes your way, expect that money will follow. In this episode, Jen and Jill bring the science behind simplicity, how it shapes our money habits, and ways to embrace it in everyday life. 🎙️ Get full show notes…
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When You and Your Partner See Money Differently | E162 Brian Page
52:33
52:33
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52:33Love and money - a perfect match, right? If only it were that simple. Money is personal for everyone. We grow up with different values, learn different money habits from our parents, and develop our own financial preferences. So when two people with unique money mindsets come together, disagreements are bound to happen. Maybe one of you is a saver …
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Why Minimalism is the Key to Financial Wellness
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43:19We’re all about that frugal life, but what happens when you take it a step further and embrace minimalism? In this episode, Jen and Jill dive into how a minimalist mindset can help you reclaim your power, boost your confidence in spending decisions, and make room for what truly matters. 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/4bhsSgD 📘 Order th…
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How Marketers Use the Same Tactics as Cults with Dr. Mara Einstein
1:01:08
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1:01:08If you ever feel like you’re being lured into spending, you’re probably right. Marketers have mastered the art of playing on your emotions just like cults do. In this episode, Jen and Jill are joined by Dr. Mara Einstein of Buy Now! The shopping Conspiracy to break down how brands tap into your pain points, build a sense of community, and keep you …
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Beginner's Guide to Zero-Based Budgeting: Your Path to Smart Saving
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47:22If you love everything in its proper place but budgeting has never quite clicked, this one might be the missing piece. Spoiler alert: budgeting methods are all pretty similar—it just depends on how you approach them and how you move with your money. In this episode, Jen and Jill venture an easy guide for you to save smarter and reach your financial…
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Higher Needs: What They Cost us & What To Do Instead
45:03
45:03
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45:03Who here loves spending money? We’re just the same! Most of us were never really taught how to spend wisely, so our mission has always been to find that radical middle between saving and spending. In this episode, Jen and Jill join the crowd as they share stories about spending on higher needs and guiding us toward better ways to meet them. 🎙️ Get …
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Do You Know You Can Negotiate Your Medical Bills? Here’s how. | E161 Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington
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37:34In today’s conversation, we will learn how to negotiate your medical bills. Wait, you can do that? Yeah, this was new to me too. Maybe it was the confusing medical jargon or the assumption that hospitals charge fair prices, but negotiating never crossed my mind…and you know I love to negotiate just about everything. Not only should you be negotiati…
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Start Healing Your Money Trauma with Shannah Game
48:08
48:08
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48:08We listen, we don’t judge! We know money can be a sensitive and vulnerable topic, and it’s easy to feel ashamed of past financial decisions. But we’re not here to judge, we're here to help you rebuild your confidence with money. In this episode, Jen and Jill, along with Shannah Game, explore how to recognize, understand, and begin your healing jour…
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How to Build and Break Habits That Cause You to Overspend
59:49
59:49
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59:49You swore you’d only spend this much but for some reason ended up spending THAT much? Some sneaky habits might be leading you there without you even realizing it. In this episode, Jen and Jill break down what’s triggering these spending traps, how to break free from them, and some key reminders for when things don’t go as planned. 🎙️ Get full show …
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Who better to talk about the benefits of frugal living than your Frugal Friends? If you are interested in frugal living and are interested to know if you are one, this episode is for you. In this episode, Jen and Jill share why they love this lifestyle—and why you just might love it too! 🎙️ Get full show notes here! https://bit.ly/4b12xmL 📘 Order t…
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