Frugal Friends Podcast

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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,…

Jen Smith & Jill Sirianni


    • Aug 29, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 52m AVG DURATION
    • 553 EPISODES

    4.5 from 865 ratings Listeners of Frugal Friends Podcast that love the show mention: frugal living, frugality, debt free journey, frugally, frugalwoods, pay off debt, jill, fake sponsors, friends podcast, found jen, pay off my debt, millennial women, make it feel like, bechdel, getting out of debt, low income, late 20s, ways to save money, budgets, thank you jen.


    Ivy Insights

    The Frugal Friends Podcast is a wonderful and enjoyable podcast hosted by Jen and Jill. They cover important topics related to financial wellness in a simple, relatable, and entertaining way. I love listening to their podcast as it provides me with a boost of motivation and their lovely voices along with the great chemistry between the two friends make it even more enjoyable. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone at any stage of their financial wellness journey. I can't wait for the day when I can call in with my Bill of the Week!

    One of the best aspects of The Frugal Friends Podcast is how thoughtful, kind, reasonable, positive, and gentle Jen and Jill are in their approach. They provide valuable insights and tips without being preachy or unrealistic. Their episodes cover various topics such as saving money, investing, minimalism, and getting the most out of life. Their inspirational approach has helped me rethink my approach in several areas of my life.

    While it's difficult to find any negative aspects about The Frugal Friends Podcast, one minor downside could be that they sometimes repeat information that may already be familiar to some listeners. However, this can also serve as a reminder for those who need it.

    In conclusion, The Frugal Friends Podcast is an incredible resource for anyone looking to improve their relationship with money and live a more intentional life. The hosts Jen and Jill create a friendly and knowledgeable environment where they share actionable tips while treating everyone like adults without talking down to them. This podcast is both hopeful and encouraging for everyone on their financial journey. I highly recommend giving it a listen!



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    Latest episodes from Frugal Friends Podcast

    She Spends HOW MUCH on Her Kids?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 60:16


    Think you know what you spend on your kids' fun? Think again. Jen and Jill go through one listener's spending list to uncover where the cash is really going and how avoiding a closer look at our habits can actually make us spend more. Catch the full story here or on YouTube!

    Social Media is Ruining Hobbies

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 51:21


    TikTok is all about hobbies right now and hobbies are great but if you're not careful you could end up with thousands of dollars wasted and nothing to show for it but a hobby graveyard. So today we're talking about all the hobbies social media is ruining and how you can avoid being financially ruined by them.

    How to do Disney World on a Budget | Tickets, Hotels, Food & More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 51:53


    Whether you're a Disney adult or just tagging along for the churros and castle views, one thing's for sure: every princess knows the magic comes at a cost. But do you really need the full-time experience... or just the fun part of it? Today's guest, AJ Wolfe, is walking us through the must-knows for planning a Disney trip so you don't end up draining your savings.

    The Problem With Thrifting: What No One Tells You About Thrift Shopping Secondhand

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 51:19


    Thrifting seems like harmless fun and most of the time, it is! There's the thrill of the hunt, the excitement of finding something one-of-a-kind. But sometimes, things get a little weird, and there's always more to it than just good deals. So today, we're talking about the side of thrifting most people don't mention and how to keep it fun without going overboard.

    How a LOTTERY WINNER Spends Her Money

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 61:03


    One lucky ticket. One massive win. And one story you won't believe. Jen and Jill chats with our lucky listener about money, divorce, and what it means to move forward with more intention and less guilt. Watch or listen wherever you get your podcasts to catch her story and maybe get a little luck dust too!

    9 UNHINGED Ways People Save Money on Bills

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 51:44


    How far would you go to save money? Because some people out there are taking frugality to a whole new and extreme level! In this episode, Jen and Jill explore wild, unhinged, and sometimes downright risky ways people try to save money and the consequences they might not see coming.

    Which Debt Should You Pay Off First?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 58:26


    When you're carrying a lot of debt, peace of mind feels just out of reach but that doesn't mean you're doing it wrong, you just haven't found the method that fits you. In this episode, we're bringing back a powerful, proven approach to help you take control, prioritize your debt with confidence, and make every payment count.

    Deinfluencing Back to School “Sales”

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 47:27


    It's a back-to-school reset! But not the one with matching lunchboxes and over-the-top ‘what's in my kid's bag' trends. Instead of overhauling everything for the kids, Jen and Jill are flipping the script on what a real reset means and breaking down how TikTok is fueling quiet overconsumption and spotlighting what to do to stay grounded, intentional, and spend way less.

    She Lost EVERYTHING In a Hurricane

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 59:11


    When life gets heavy, our spending often follows. Jen and Jill chats with a listener who openly shares her 90-day transaction inventory from one of the hardest chapters of her life.They took a closer look at her spending habits and explored how different life seasons can affect the way we spend and how we can recover once that season has passed. Catch the episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast app because this one hits close to home.

    TikTok is Normalizing Being CAR POOR | These Car Payments Are INSANE!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 54:13


    Cars are meant to get you to your destination NOT become your second home. But these days, people are spending so much even after buying a new car that it makes you stop and think… is it really worth it? Jen and Jill, with car expert Hayden Schreier break it all down pointing out the hidden costs, cheap parts, and big red flags to watch out for before you buy.

    Frugal Living Tips From The Great Depression

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 56:14


    Before budgeting apps and finance gurus, people were making do with almost nothing yet somehow still thriving! In this episode, Jen and Jill go back in time to show just how timeless the tips from the Great Depression really are. Believe it or not, their wisdom and old-school ways still work today.

    How to Save $10K FAST (When You Earn Less Than $100K) | Save Money Fast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 44:10


    We all want to save as fast as we can but fast is relative. For some, it's going to take months, for others, years. Either way, one isn't better than the other because life moves differently for us all. Jen and Jill have been there, and now they're sharing five easy steps to make your version of “fast” feel like the speed of light.

    She Spent HOW MUCH on Gifts!?!? | Spending Intervention

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 69:28


    Ever look at your bank statement and think… how did that happen? In this first episode of our new Spending Intervention series, Jen and Jill sit down with a listener who bravely shares her 90-day transaction inventory, from surprise splurges to gift-giving gone wild. Together, they uncover what's really driving her spending and explore how to shift toward choices that feel more intentional (and less like a budget hangover). Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen in for some major “same here!” moments.

    Deinfluencing Kid Stuff: These Parents are TEACHING OVERCONSUMPTION

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 52:58


    Parents want to give their kids the best—the toys, the experiences, the memories. But that desire, fueled by pressure to be the “perfect parent,” often leads to overspending and financial stress. In this episode, Jen and Jill explore why this happens, the three main areas parents overspend, and how to take a more mindful approach.

    Save Money By Decluttering

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 51:26


    If you're in it for the thrill of the hunt, this one's for you—with a twist. Because this time, you actually get to save more. Ingrid Jensen joins us to talk all about the treasure hiding in your clutter like things you forgot you owned, surprise coupons, and the peace that comes with open space. In this episode, we're revisiting the magic (and strategy) of decluttering!

    How to Save Money on Medical Bills

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 42:08


    It's so normal for us, as a society, to avoid health check-ups out of fear of shocking medical bills. But in most cases, what you see on your medical bill isn't the amount you actually have to pay. In this episode, experts share the most common medical billing mistakes, how to spot them, and steps to challenge charges, get discounts, and find hidden financial aid.

    Propaganda: How Shopping Became Patriotic

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2025 43:03 Transcription Available


    If you think about it, proving your love for your country almost sounds too easy—just shop, and you’re goods! Feels like a win-win. Only it’s not. And worse, it usually costs you more. In this episode, we unpack the propaganda that’s shaped the idea of shopping as a patriotic act.

    What to Do if You Have More Debt Than You Make in a Year

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 51:54 Transcription Available


    Debt can be a scary word, really. It keeps you up at night, brings on the stress, and makes everything feel heavier. But you’re not alone. Once upon a time, Jen and Jill were there too. So in this episode, they’re once again sharing how they got through it and reminding you that it is possible.

    3-Day Digital Declutter Guide | Professional Organizer Explains with Tara Bremer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 47:04 Transcription Available


    Right when you're about to get something done, your phone interrupts: “Insufficient Storage.” Now, instead of working, you're cleaning out files or worse, paying for more space. In this episode, we’re breaking down why digital clutter can be just as costly as physical mess and the smartest ways to simplify your phone so it stays that way.

    What To Do If You Have Nothing Saved For Retirement

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 56:47 Transcription Available


    One day you're sipping coffee, getting ready for work, and it hits you—you’ve got nothing saved for retirement. Cue the panic. But Jen and Jill are here to remind you once more: it’s never too late. In this episode, they talk about how just getting started now can still make a big difference.

    Collectibles are PEAK Consumerism | Labubu, Sonny Angels, Stanley & More

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 42:34 Transcription Available


    Healing your inner child is one thing but giving in to every trending collectible might be saying more than you think, because the truth is, it is affecting your spending! This episode is not to deprive you of the fun, but to help you understand how these trendy (and sometimes irresistible) collectibles have hidden consequences and smart ways of luring you in.

    Should You Try a No-Spend Challenge?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 57:18 Transcription Available


    Propaganda we’re not falling for: That it’s impossible to do a no-spending challenge. Just because the world revolves around capitalism? Nuh-uh. If you know how to do it right you will do it right. There may be pros and cons along the way but the lessons and habits you pick up will benefit you no matter what. And that’s exactly what Jen and Jill are diving into in this episode.

    How to Get Off The Hot Girl Hamster Wheel with Katie Gatti Tassin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 48:00 Transcription Available


    Sorry, not sorry—we’re done falling for the societal pressure trap. We’re getting the bag and living that rich girl vibe. In this episode, Katie from Money with Katie joins us to break down the industries profiting off our insecurities, how to navigate negotiation as a woman, and how to give your budget a full-on Hot Girl Detox.

    How to Save Money on Organic Groceries

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 41:11 Transcription Available


    Life isn’t always perfect and neither are fruits and veggies. So they don’t have to be the freshest or most expensive to nourish you. The truth is, being well doesn’t have to cost a lot. In this episode, we’re diving into all things organic and sharing how you can find them for free, on a budget, and totally guilt-free.

    Social Media Scams THAT ALMOST FOOLED US!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 49:13 Transcription Available


    It’s a different kind of heartbreak having to fall into scams especially when your intentions were pure. We can’t stop scammers from being shady, but we can learn how to spot the signs and steer clear. In this episode, we’re talking about the latest scam trends and how AI is making them sneakier and we’re sharing easy ways to protect yourself so it doesn’t happen again.

    Why You Keep Self-Sabotaging Your Budget (& How to Stop!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 60:37 Transcription Available


    Budgeting needs some tender, loving care. If you ignore it and don’t check in, it’ll turn its back on you and that’s when self-sabotage sneaks in and everything starts to fall apart. Take a deep breath, because in this episode, we’re diving into the reasons you might find yourself stuck in that cycle and sharing simple, powerful tips to help you break free for good.

    Deinfluencing Summer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 45:56 Transcription Available


    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 really good (or bad) marketing.

    How to Save Money on MEAT at the Grocery Store with Jenny Mitich

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 48:57 Transcription Available


    Calling 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.

    Going Plant-Based on a Budget With Toni Okamoto

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 55:21 Transcription Available


    See 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.

    Deinfluencing Memorial Day Sales

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 44:13 Transcription Available


    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.

    How to Save Money on Lululemon (& More Fashion Brands!)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 46:32 Transcription Available


    We’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 overspending.

    Frugal Ways to Stretch Everyday Products with Hope Ware

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 57:31 Transcription Available


    Why 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.

    Is it OK to Have a Car Payment? & How To Avoid an Auto Loan

    Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 55:53 Transcription Available


    Auto 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 surprise you (even with good credit).

    Start Here to Become Frugal in 2025 | Frugal Living Tips

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 46:22 Transcription Available


    Frugality 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.

    How to Save Money on Food: Takeout, Restaurants, & More!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 47:41 Transcription Available


    Do 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!

    How to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel with DeLancey Carson | DIY Kitchen Renovation Tips!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 57:28 Transcription Available


    Been 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!

    How to Save Money on Entertainment

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2025 48:58 Transcription Available


    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!

    How to Save Money on Online Shopping

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 49:26 Transcription Available


    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.

    Travel for (Almost) Free: Mastering Credit Card Rewards with Amber Paul

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2025 51:02 Transcription Available


    We 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 hit.

    How to Save Money on Your Electric Bill

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 43:40 Transcription Available


    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!

    No-Cost Ways to be More Eco-Friendly

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 49:35 Transcription Available


    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.

    A New Era For Frugal Friends

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 47:32 Transcription Available


    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?

    The Ultimate Guide to Frugal Grocery Shopping

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2025 51:05 Transcription Available


    Every 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.

    Transform Your Budget in 30 Days CHALLENGE

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 49:48 Transcription Available


    This 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 better at it.

    Investing for Financial Freedom: A Woman's Guide with Nicole Stanley

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2025 47:52 Transcription Available


    With 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 investing work for you with steps you can actually follow.

    Tips to Succeed With Your Low-Buy Year and Combat Overconsumption!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 46:04 Transcription Available


    If 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.

    Insights on Credit Card Debt: What You Should Consider

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2025 46:54 Transcription Available


    Some 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 can do to take back control of your money.

    Commuting with an E-Bike (in any weather!) with Kevin Ha

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 55:22 Transcription Available


    Imagine 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 any weather.

    The Science Behind How Simplicity Impacts Your Money

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 60:55 Transcription Available


    In 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.

    Why Minimalism is the Key to Financial Wellness

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 43:19 Transcription Available


    We’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.

    How Marketers Use the Same Tactics as Cults with Dr. Mara Einstein

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2025 61:08 Transcription Available


    If 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 stuck in a cycle of doom scrolling and spending.

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