Frugal Friends Podcast

In this episode we talk with Amanda from Debt Free in Sunny CA about her massive $133,763 debt pay-off! Amanda and her husband paid off over $133,000 of debt in 43 months and became debt free just a few short weeks ago on July 5th 2018. During that time she started the #debtfreecommunity on Instagram that has become a safe haven for others paying off debt.Notable NotesAmanda shares tips on how they paid off debt, getting her partner on board, and even how to save on pet care and vet bills! We also discuss the importance of finding your "why" in this debt-free and financial independence journey. Amanda shares her "why" along with other great insights on partnering with your spouse to accomplish financial goals.We had a great time talking with Amanda and hearing her amazing debt pay-off story, and celebrating her accomplishment with her! Not to mention, we always appreciate learning new tips from our frugal friends!BILL OF THE WEEK- Thanks Amanda for sharing your bill! If you want to submit your bill of the week visit frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill to call our Google Voicemail. Or email us a voice memo to frugalfriendspodcast@gmail.comThanks so much for hanging out with us. If you like the message we’re spreading you can support us by leaving a review on Itunes  or Stitcher and hitting the subscribe button to get new episodes every Frugal Friends Friday. AND join our Facebook group at frugalfriendspodcast.com/group for more discussion on today’s episode and tips from the community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ugh, student loans. Let's all have a collective, frustrated sigh. Even for the most debt averse people, student loans are often still a part of the equation. SO, let's talk about getting rid of those loans!! This episode explores ways to save on student loans, refinancing, loan forgiveness programs, and straight up lifestyle changes to help get rid of student debt fast! We're glad you're here and we're excited to have frugal friends in this debt-free journey!Notable NotesWhat the Internet has to say: This article from student loan hero provides a comprehensive list of loan forgiveness programs. The site provides clickable links for each type of loan forgiveness option, along with explanations for the different programs. Student Loan Planner goes into great detail about the public service loan forgiveness program and tips for applying while also avoiding the pitfalls. If considering refinancing students loans, check out this article! Student loan hero advises 6 steps to take prior to applying to refinance. And check out Jen's story on Student Loan Hero! What Jen and Jill have to say: The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) is the best, but also probably not the best. Being that this loan is a government program, things could change! There are also a lot of caveats to be aware of, so heed the advice of those that have gone before us!! Refinancing can be a great solution to get your loans all in one place and lower your interest rate. We recommend Education Loan Refinancing since it has the lowest interest rates and the highest cash incentive ($200!) if you sign your loan within 30 days of approval. AND if you use our affiliate link to sign up, you'll get an extra $100!! Our Experience: Jen has her own amazing student debt pay-off story! Check it out on her blog Saving with Spunk   Use speed! Going hard at paying down your student loans fast is the only way to save money, and pay down debt efficiently Bonus link! Check out this article for more tips on loan forgiveness, not mentioned in the show!  BILL OF THE WEEK: Thank you again Hannah Randall for your SECOND bill of the week! You get the loyal frugal friend award!If YOU want to submit your bill of the week visit frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill to call our Google Voicemail. Or email us a voice memo to frugalfriendspodcast@gmail.comSponsors check them out for all your podcasting needs! podcastcrafter.comPodcast Crafter - want to pay off your student loans? It just takes TIME (and money) :)Time -  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With healthcare costs rising we thought it only fitting to talk about frugal ways to approach caring for yourself. We cover healthcare sharing, HSAs, ways to maintain health, acupuncture, glasses/contacts, teeth cleanings and more! We know it's a frustrating and sometimes boring topic but we promise to bring some lighthearted humor and invaluable tips for this necessary issue.Sponsors podcastcrafter.com - incredible podcast production services - check 'em out! - the frugal dinnerbeans and rice Notable Notes This article from Mila at The Balance shares 10 ways to minimize costs on health care and insurance. Mila gives helpful information on the different nuances of various health insurance plans and some pitfalls to watch out for. While mainly talking health insurance, there are some great tips regarding billing and finding discounted services. We agree with tip #3 about being aware of balance billing; this is a real thing! Doctors offices may try to bill you for the balance not paid by insurance, but you do not always need to pay this We like tip #4 about finding alternative insurance. Some options include: Farm Bureau Financial Services, Medi-Share We do recommend looking into getting a health insurance broker, sometimes this can save big money and YOU don't pay for the brokers services #10 is the tried and true frugal method; shop around and compare costs for specific procedures What Jen and Jill have to say: This article by Wendy at WebMD 5 ways to save on medical costs. There are obvious tips like talking to your doctor, but there are also some suggestions we have not considered for saving on medications! We like tip #5 about pill splitting - it's possible to decrease the cost of prescription medications if certain milligram amounts are cheaper. Meaning pay less for the 30mg pill and split in half if your prescribed dosage is 15mg. Worth looking into!!What Jen and Jill have to say: What the internet has to say:BILL OF THE WEEK- If you want to submit your bill of the week visit frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill to call our Google Voicemail. Or email us a voice memo to frugalfriendspodcast@gmail.comOur Experience: Preventative care that will actually save you money isn’t screenings. Check out this NY times article for more.  Consider contributing to HSA’s to offset the downfall of Medicare; this article gives a great explanation on HSAs Utilize Groupon for teeth cleanings,  Mystery shop for teeth cleaning and eye exams through A Closer Look.  Shop for contacts through Ebates Acupuncture for preventative care; check out this article from the Penny Hoarder regarding the benefits! Jen Know what’s an ‘emergency’ and what super glue can fix! For instance, my pinky tragedy while doing the dishes!Jill BEFORE + AFTER pictures on the website - super glue for the win!-Preventative care - drink apple cider vinegar everyday! Thanks Linda SSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s July and we’re in the throws of summer travel, so it's only fitting for us to talk about adventurous frugality! We covered saving on plane tickets in episode 7 so hopefully you already have that one figured out! In this episode we move on to discuss keeping costs low while on vacation. Here's to enjoying life without breaking the bank!Sponsors: saying “no” - just do it podcastcrafter.com For all your podcasting needs! Check them out! Notable Notes:What the internet has to say This article from Nomadic Matt outlines 7 tips for saving cash on accommodations while traveling. Included in the list are home sharing options, hostels, and rewards programs. Moral of the story: there are more options than we would have originally thought! What Jen and Jill have to say:  couchsurfing sharing house space on airbnb hostels MONASTERIES!!! David Ning gives 50 (that right 50!) tips to save money on vacation. The article goes through categories different categories including saving on flights, food, car rental, transportation, currency, accommodation, shopping, travel alternatives, and other tips for budget travel.  What Jen and Jill have to say:  plan your meals and don’t eat every meal out you don’t need rental car insurance do a cost analysis on staying outside of the city and getting a rental car/ commuting vs staying within check your insurance and credit card policy.  BILL OF THE WEEK- If you want to submit your bill of the week visit frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill to call our Google Voicemail. Or email us a voice memo to frugalfriendspodcast@gmail.com Our experience: Let's get philosophical: should you vacation while you’re in debt? If you’re going international get the schwab debit card. Rent and RV through sites like the following:  https://rvshare.com/?semid=google.nb&placement=g&campid=945028445&adgid=45150523137&keyword=e.rent%20rv&copyid=229314280260&kwd-299503571948&device=t&camptype=search&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvezZBRDkARIsADKQyPkim1pnsSYACEKuYR8tEE8AGU-6kcNnbysjVsXlC2lmpdaZrWVphj7oaAme3EALw_wcB https://www.cruiseamerica.com/rent/  OR invest in your vacation rather than throw money out the window - get creative! For example, purchase a trailer or RV, use it for your vacation, then sell it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode we tackle a subject that is a bit beyond our expertise, BUT frugality can be applied to all areas of life; including cars!We talk car maintenance, purchasing, and overall approach to vehicles that can reorient how we view transportation, while also exploring some ways to save money in the process!We could tell you how to save on insurance or at the car lot but frugality isn’t just about saving money. It’s essentially about making fully informed purchases.Notable Notes:What the internet has to say: Kevin Mercadante Article;This Money Under 30 article looks at the true cost of car ownership and explores 6 major vehicle costs including: fuel, licensing/registration/taxes, insurance, maintenance/tires, finance charges, and depreciation.What Jen and Jill have to say: Having a car longer versus trading in seems to be the better deal BUT buy used! (depreciation will get ya) Wisebread Article by Paul Michael dives into 8 easy DIY car repairs. Paul highlights a few vehicle maintenance jobs that could be done at home for those who want to expand their skills! What Jen and Jill have to say: We love the problem solving/DIY approach!! There are some BOLD suggestions Check out some simple car maintenance on youtube like this one: https://www.youtube.com/user/scottykilmer BILL OF THE WEEK- Thanks Hannah from Souderton, PA for your awesome Bill of the Week!! We did not know this about duck bills!frugalfriendspodcast.com/billIf you want to submit your bill of the week visit to call our Google Voicemail.Our experience: If you are wondering "how much should I spend on a car?" check out this article which gives a great break-down! https://www.moneyunder30.com/how-much-car-can-you-afford Basically, 10-35% of annual income IN CASH should be spend on a car Buying quality used cars in cash has been the best system for us! Sponsors: do it!Budgeting - See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the Frugal Friends Podcast we do something very new and exciting by hosting a guest! You don't want to miss this interview with Joel Larsgaard from the Pour not Poor podcast. In addition to hosting a podcast about craft beer and personal finance with his friend Matt, he also works as a radio and web producer for money saving guru, Clark Howard so he has a lot of tips for saving money to share with us!Notable NotesWe ask Joel about everything from his history with frugality, money saving tips he picked up from Clark Howard, expert advice on rental properties, how he find deals on mid-century furniture, and finally to the topic of biking to work!What we got from the conversation was more than anyone could have expected as Joel speaks candidly and with a great deal of knowledge about his own experience watching his parents file for bankruptcy, ways adult children can broach the topic of finance with aging parents, and the process of forging a new path with one's own financial decisions.It's a great combination of insightful, thought-provoking conversation and light-hearted tips for anyone on the wide spectrum of frugal living!BILL OF THE WEEK- If you want to submit your bill of the week visit frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill to call our Google Voicemail. Or email us a voice memo to frugalfriendspodcast@gmail.comThanks so much for hanging out with us. If you like the message we’re spreading you can support us by leaving a review on Itunes and hitting the subscribe button to get new episodes every Frugal Friends Friday. AND join our Facebook group at frugalfriendspodcast.com/group for more discussion on today’s episode and tips from the community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

That's right - Jen and Jill like to go out to eat too! Believe it or not, you can eat at restaurants and still be frugal! In this episode, the frugal friends bring you the best the internet and life experience has to offer regarding dining out without destroying those financial goals.Notable Notes Eat This Article This article shares 20 ways to reduce your restaurant bill. Some tips are obvious, some tips are noteworthy, and some tips should never be used! The frugal friends discuss the highlights!  Avoid tips, and supplement with food at home by taking it 'to-go' Ask about status discounts (teacher, law enforcement, military, etc.) Split/share meals HAPPY HOURS! Don't show up starving - eat a snack Jen's rant about not asking your server for free food What Jen and Jill have to say The Simple Dollar Article 15 strategies for saving money at restaurants are listed and include some great tips for real savings, like purchasing discounted gift cards and implementing a more frugal mindset when dining out. Utilize discounted gift cards through sites like Gift Card GrannyJill's warning about 'tip tolerance' on gift cards; check out more HERE Check for coupons through sites like Valpak Consider going to restaurants that offer free appetizers (bread, chips, etc) Portion control :) What Jen and Jill have to say What the internet has to sayBILL OF THE WEEK- If you want to submit your 'Bill of the Week'  call our Google Voicemail at 570-995-1540Jen and Jills favorite tips for dining out Jenmystery shopping  Coyle Hospitality Bestmark Customer Impact Confero Jill Utilize websites like Groupon  Order from the kids menu! Meal Planning on a BudgetALSO, check out Jen's book (mentioned in the show) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s summer! Therefore - we're traveling! In this episode, Jen and Jill actually sit in the same room and discuss how to score inexpensive tickets on flights. Personal experiences are shared and new insights from the internet are discovered. If you ever plan on flying, you don't want to miss this episode!Notable Notes Thrifty Nomad Article In this article the thrifty nomads share some very tangible tips for reducing the cost of plane tickets. Some lesser known tricks like using an 'incognito' window are shared with instructions on how to incorporate this into your flight search routine!  Use an incognito window when searching flights Befriend budget airlines (Allegiant, Frontier, Spirit - they aren't so bad!) Utilize websites like Airfare Watchdog to score cheap flights What Jen and Jill have to say Thrillest Article Sophie-Claire Hoeller shares 12 hacks to save money on plane tickets. Included are some risky tips, but also some helpful insights that are worth implementing the next time you go to book a flight!  Purchase tickets 47 days in advance (if possible) Jill thinks some tips like 'hidden city ticketing', using a 'fake location' are 'sketchy' and advises to proceed with caution - BUT definitely report back if you do this and it works! What Jen and Jill have to say What the internet has to say Jen and Jill's favorite tips for saving on flights  Jill  ITA Matrix - the website looks like it hasn't been updated since 2001, and you can't actually purchase tickets through the site, but it allows for comprehensive and advanced searches for finding the best deals! Travel and Leisure Article explains how to use the ITA matrix Jen  Southwest companion pass explained HERE Referral link: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/223/EPP76MYV1L See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jen and Jill talk wedding ceremonies - specifically the most expensive parts including; rings, dress, venue, flowers, and photographer. Of course, the internet is roped into the conversation and the Frugal Friends dialogue about key tips to saving money on 'the big day'. The Friends even share their own frugal fails, so you don't have to make the same mistakes! Stay tuned for 'Part II' where the Frugal Friends will explore frugal ways to throw a killer reception!Notable Notes BuzzFeed Article Rachel outlines 33 ways to save money on your wedding. Tips on everything from day of the week, to choosing the right vendors are covered.  Jen likes #4 outside vendors, and #15 venues with visual appeal Jill disagrees on #2 - 'taking your time' What Jen and Jill have to say Woman Getting Married Article Jen Goldenburg takes a close look at wedding dresses, and shares 5 ways to save money on this important element.  Jen likes #5 non-wedding gown - obviously because this is what she did! Jill shares her frugal fail. Pictures below!  [caption id="attachment_89" align="alignnone" width="181"] The dress Jill thought she was getting[/caption]   [caption id="attachment_88" align="alignnone" width="199"] The dress Jill actually got[/caption]  What Jen and Jill have to say What the Internet has to say Venue Jen - a shuffle board court! Jill - cheapest church in town that could seat 300! Rings Jen - Pawn Shop Haggling Jill - Antique/Consignment store Photographer Jen - Friends! Jill - Budding photographer friend using wedding to build portfolio and brother-in-law for second shooter Flowers Jen - Did not buy many flowers - she thought the shuffle board court was beautiful enough! Jill - Eric picked her flowers day of the wedding Most Expensive Parts of A Wedding - What the Frugal Friends did BILL OF THE WEEK Wedding Freebies Free invitations that don’t suckWedding Chicks Other Wedding Freebies The Balance See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Phone, utility, and internet bills are just a few of the dreaded expenses covered on this week's frugal episode. It doesn't have to all be doom and gloom though, as we search the internet and weed through what's useful and what's not when it comes to saving money on bills. We even learned a few things about ceiling fans along the way! Get pumped.Notable Notes Lauren Greutman Article Lauren shares 15 ways to reduce utility costs and covers everything from washer/dryer tricks to negotiating with your electric provider.  Doing chores that involve electricity at night may mean paying a lower utility rate - check with your provider Rotating ceiling fan blades/switching direction of ceiling fan (i.e. pull warm air up/push cold air down, or vice versa) Protecting windows from drafts in the winter - Jill's recommended shrink film HERE Switch to LED bulbs for reduced electrical costs  2700 Kelvin Color Temperature is the equivalent to a soft white incandescent Here's a 'nerding out' article on light bulbs What Jen and Jill have to say The Simple Dollar Article Trent shares 40 ways to save money on common monthly expenses. There are some overlap suggestions from the Greutman article, but also some great reminders about thinking differently and approaching expenses from a more frugal perspective.  Jill really did not resonate with this article and openly shares her contrary opinions to numbers 13, 32, and 36. After all, what functioning adult - alive in 2018 - has an epiphany that they no longer need their cell phone?! Jen took a more level-headed approach and affirms the suggestions of using power strips/timers, and eliminating unnecessary subscriptions. What Jen and Jill have to say What the internet has to say 1. and call every few months for a better deal - this works particularly with cell phone and cable service providersShop around 2. - identify ways to cut back on TV spending, don't use the dryer for the full cycle, etc.Reduce use 3. - this IS worth spending money on! Freedom awaits!Pay off debt Ways we save money and what’s worth spending on Jen shares her internet/phone service failFrugal Fail Call us at and leave a voicemail!570-995-1540 Share your bill of the week and be featured on our podcast! BILL OF THE WEEK! BONUS: Picture of Jill's frozen face on Jen's computer screen. When does the face ever freeze so perfectly?!? (check it out over on the show notes on the website)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.