Frugal Friends Podcast

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 Notes

We 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.com

Thanks 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.

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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 Granny
        • Jill'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 say

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Jen and Jills favorite tips for dining out

• Jen
  • mystery 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)

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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

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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 suck
    • Wedding Chicks
  • Other Wedding Freebies 
    • The Balance

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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 fail
  Frugal 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)

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The Frugal Friends take a look at the fundamental need and expense of shelter! In this episode Jill shares her adventures in non-traditional housing solutions and Jen talks house hacks and how she uses her home as income property. A number of internet articles are explored and the pros and cons of renting versus buying are equitably discussed.

Notable Notes

• • What the Internet has to say 
    • Market Watch Article
    • Jacob Passy boldy supports his claims that, in some cases, it makes more sense to rent than buy. Citing shifts in economics and the housing market, Jacob gives a convincing argument to stick with the landlord, and enjoy the freedom that comes with renting. 
      • • You do run the risk of rent inflation but when you own your taxes increase too so you’re not immune.
        • Renting includes being absolved from fixing anything that breaks, renters insurance is a fraction of the cost of homeowners insurance, you don’t have to pay property taxes, there is no interest lost when you rent.
        • Jen -"we love our house but it's a luxury". The house you live in isn’t an investment, it’s a home. Until you’re ready to incur the cost of maintenance, upkeep, and designing it to be a place you love, no one, including yourself, should rush you into buying. You’re not missing out on anything by renting, it’s the frugal thing to do. mic drop.
        What Jen and Jill have to say
  The Case for Renting
• • • Jill shares on her journey of renting inexpensively, living in an RV, house-sitting, and living with grandma!
      • Get paid to care for your elderly family members
        • Caring for Elderly
  Alternative Housing
• • • 1) rates are always at “attractive lows” and housing prices are always “only going up from here”
    • 2) Start doing best practices to increase your credit score and decrease your your debt-to-income ratio (less than 28%). Better yet, get out of debt first! Your goal is to qualify for a conventional loan.
    • 3) Save your downpayment (the more you save the lower your interest rate and less PMI you’ll have to pay.) And look at grants.
    Things to Remember
  • • Coach Carson Article
    • Chad Carson gives a very thorough description (with pictures!) of his 'house hacking' journey. The article includes Chad's own break down of the costs incurred and revenue accrued from his fourplex, along with a creative guide for others who are interested in 'house hacking'. 
      • • Chad Carson is who Jen learned house hacking from - she always assumed it was an option, but Chad actually gave it a name! 
        • Jen's version of 'house hacking' includes renting out a room in their single family home on Airbnb
          
          
        What Jen and Jill have to say
    What the Internet has to say
  Ready to Buy
• • • Mr. Money Mustache Article
    • Mr. Money exposes the true cost of commuting and dispels the myth that 'commuting is a good way to save money' 
      • • Some people think opting for lower rent outside the city and settling for a 30-40 minute commute is the smart thing to do, but the frugal friends disagree.
        • Jen agrees with Mr. Money Mustache that you should pay the higher rent to live close to your work and life if you’re willing to 1) bike to work 2) sell you
        What Jen and Jill have to say
    What the Internet has to say
  The Case Against a Commute

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The Frugal Friends discuss FOOD! Jen and Jill turn to the internet to see what others have to say about saving money on food, reducing waste, and still maintaining a healthy diet. Of course, the organic debate does come up; but thank you Aldi for not polarizing us!

Notable Notes

• • Root and Revel Article
  • In this article, Kate lists 30 ways to save money and eat healthy on a budget. Included is the 'cheat sheet' on where to prioritize purchasing organic, how to make your own condiments, and resources to buy and support local agriculture. 
    • • Buy food, use food
      • Reduce animal product consumption
      • Disagree with meal kit delivery service one
      • Drink water! It's good for you!
      What Jen and Jill have to say
  • Sustainable Baby Steps Article
  • This writer argues that healthy food does not have to be expensive, and gives a strong case for why eating smart only appears to cost a lot of money. A long list of cheap, healthy food is given, and links to recipes are provided. 
    • • Sustainable baby steps show you save money with whole foods but you pay in time
      • The list of healthy and inexpensive snacks and foods is a winner!
      • Learning how to cook, and the flavors you enjoy is key to embracing food the frugal way
      What Jen and Jill have to say
  What the internet has to say
• • THANK YOU Aldi!
  The Organic Debate
• BILL OF THE WEEK 
• • Eating healthy is cheaper, but you pay in time and taste (unless you learn how to cook!)
  • Budget your time (i.e. meal prep)
  • Improve taste; research & practice makes perfect
  Wrap Up

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We discuss one of our most basic needs and how to spend and save smartly on our clothing. Beyond the purchase of clothing, the Frugal Friends also explore proper care, and maintenance to increase the longevity of our clothing.

Notable Notes:

• • Penny Hoarder Article
    • The article shares 20 ways to save money on clothes. Tips include saving, spending intentionally, and even preserving and properly washing clothing.
    • • Thrift stores - YES!
      • Hang dry clothing - Frugal Friends call this a 'two birds, one stone' situation; preserve clothes, AND save on utility costs
      • Compartments in the washing machine explained HERE
      • Dry Clean at home 
        • DIY Dry Cleaning
      What Jen and Jill have to say
  • Money Talks Article
    • Angela Colley shares 23 money saving tips on clothing. In a culture where the average American spends $1,800 a year on clothing, the Frugal Friends agree; we can do better!
    • • Buy out of season 
      • Skip expensive workout clothes
      • Organize a clothing swap with friends - another 'two birds, one stone' scenario; hanging out with friends AND getting 'new to you' clothing!
      What Jen and Jill have to say
  What the internet has to say
• • Jen - buying quality, buying out of season, referral programs
  • Jill - thrift stores, mending, and swapping
  How Jen and Jill save money on clothes
• • underwear (the line has to be drawn somewhere!)
  • staple shoes (i.e. boots, quality sandals)
  • coats (out of season is still best!)
  What Jen and Jill WILL spend money on
• • Thanks Lisa! The Frugal Friends think 'Bill' the dog sounds like a real gem!
  BILL OF THE WEEK 
• Wrap Up
  • Challenge yourself to not spend money on clothes
  • Clothing swap with friends
  • If you have kids, clothes swap with other parents
  • Utilize referral programs - ThredUp & Schoola

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In this episode, we introduce the Frugal Friends Podcast, share a bit about ourselves, and a lot about frugality.

We're excited to create a platform for sharing and learning together on this frugal journey!

Frugality is for everyone; so join us by listening, engaging with our Facebook Group, taking the 90 Day Frugalizer challenge, and utilizing the links below for more resources and information on living frugally!

Notable Notes:

• - Categories to anticipate with Frugal Friends podcast episodes 
  • Clothing/Shopping
  • Bills/Utilities
  • Transportation
  • Housing
  4 Pillars
• • Frugalwoods Article
    • Mrs. Frugalwoods (a.k.a. Liz Thames) identifies 19 reasons why frugality is the best - and the frugal friends agree!
    • • Frugality helps you identify your true priorities
      • Frugality builds community
      • Frugality means you'll never be bored
      • Frugality leads to gratitude and joy
      What Jen and Jill have to say:
  • Millennial Money Article
    • Grant went from a frugal guy who amassed $1M to flippantly spending over $200K in one year. In short; the spending didn’t make him feel better.
    • • Frugality is about spending wisely
      • Frugality is about the journey, not the destination
      • It is never too late to 'course correct'
      What Jen and Jill have to say:
  What the internet has to say
• • Introduction of the most anticipated, interactive segment!
  • Leave us a voicemail with your BILL OF THE WEEK at: 570-995-1540
  BILL OF THE WEEK 
• • (i.e. at some point you're wasting your time)The Law of Diminishing Returns
  • ( i.e. if frugality keeps you from what you love its cheapness)Frugality allows you to discover what you truly value
  • (i.e. you can’t buy your way to green) Frugality is good for the environment
  • (i.e. you can have better things when you buy used and you’ll eventually stop buying those souvenir t-shirts you’ll never wear)Frugality refines your taste and style
  • (i.e. the best way to not spend money is to spend time making it!)Frugality allows you more time to increase your income
  • (i.e. sorry, not sorry)Frugality will not make you rich
  Tenets of Frugality 
• #frugalnotcheap

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Hi! We're Jill & Jen, your new frugal friends. We're here to help you embrace frugality and all the benefits that come with it.Are you trying to pay off debt or reach other financial goals?

Do you often wonder where all your money went? 

Have you been looking for a community that will help you grow to your fullest frugal potential?

Then join us on the where we help you save money on things you need, buy less of the things you don't, and leave more for the things you really want.Frugal Friends Podcast

Frugal Friends is an accessible and informative podcast for anyone who wants to make better decisions with their money. We’re a place where people can learn together and share what’s worked for them.

Everyone’s invited! 

We're finding joy in the simplicity of less. 

To follow along, Subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and Google Play.

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