

Frugal Friends Podcast
Jen Smith & Jill Sirianni | Backyard Ventures
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 8, 2025 • 42min
How to Save Money on Medical Bills
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.Quick correction: In this episode, we said you have 120 days to apply but it’s actually 240 days. Even better!🎙️ Get full show notes here!https://bit.ly/ffpmedicalbill 📘 Order the book herehttps://bit.ly/BWYL-podcast💌 Want to save money and spend better in just 5 minutes? Get The Friendletter! Our FREE 2x weekly newsletter with freebies, deals, and savings hacks.https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/friendletter📣 Submit your bill of the week and get a shoutout from ushttps://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill-of-the-week/💸 Check out our monthly challenge communityhttp://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/club👉🏼 Subscribe for more on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/frugalfriends💃🏼 Hang out with us on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/frugalfriendspodcast/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 4, 2025 • 43min
Propaganda: How Shopping Became Patriotic
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. 🎙️ Get full show notes here!https://bit.ly/ffppatrioticshopping 📘 Order the book herehttps://bit.ly/BWYL-podcast 💌 Want to save money and spend better in just 5 minutes? Get The Friendletter! Our FREE 3x weekly newsletter with freebies, deals, and savings hacks.https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/friendletter 📣 Submit your bill of the week and get a shoutout from ushttps://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill-of-the-week/ 💸 Check out our monthly challenge communityhttp://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/club 👉🏼 Subscribe for more on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/frugalfriends 💃🏼 Hang out with us on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/frugalfriendspodcast/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.

9 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 52min
What to Do if You Have More Debt Than You Make in a Year
Debt doesn't have to be a lifelong burden! The hosts share their personal journeys through overwhelming debt, proving that recovery is possible with the right mindset. They discuss practical strategies to manage and reduce debt, highlighting the emotional toll it takes and offering a constructive perspective on viewing debt as a tool. Listeners will also find tips on enjoyable side hustles and community support, as well as insights into gaining financial freedom and making empowered choices.

11 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 47min
3-Day Digital Declutter Guide | Professional Organizer Explains with Tara Bremer
Tara Bremer, CEO of House Peace and a professional organizer with a psychology background, discusses the hidden costs of digital clutter. She emphasizes that just like physical mess, digital chaos can affect finances and mental health. Listeners will learn a three-day decluttering process and practical email management strategies, like unsubscribing from unnecessary newsletters. Tara shares insights on simplifying digital spaces for better organization, balancing cherished memories with a stress-free digital life. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to tame their tech!

Jun 24, 2025 • 57min
What To Do If You Have Nothing Saved For Retirement
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. 🎙️ Get full show notes here!https://bit.ly/ffpretirementsaving 📘 Order the book herehttps://bit.ly/BWYL-podcast 💌 Want to save money and spend better in just 5 minutes? Get The Friendletter! Our FREE 3x weekly newsletter with freebies, deals, and savings hacks.https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/friendletter 📣 Submit your bill of the week and get a shoutout from ushttps://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill-of-the-week/ 💸 Check out our monthly challenge communityhttp://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/club 👉🏼 Subscribe for more on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/frugalfriends 💃🏼 Hang out with us on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/frugalfriendspodcast/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.

Jun 20, 2025 • 43min
Collectibles are PEAK Consumerism | Labubu, Sonny Angels, Stanley & More
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. 🎙️ Get full show notes here!https://bit.ly/ffpcollectibles 📘 Order the book herehttps://bit.ly/BWYL-podcast 💌 Want to save money and spend better in just 5 minutes? Get The Friendletter! Our FREE 3x weekly newsletter with freebies, deals, and savings hacks.https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/friendletter 📣 Submit your bill of the week and get a shoutout from ushttps://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill-of-the-week/ 💸 Check out our monthly challenge communityhttp://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/club 👉🏼 Subscribe for more on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/frugalfriends 💃🏼 Hang out with us on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/frugalfriendspodcast/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.

Jun 17, 2025 • 57min
Should You Try a No-Spend Challenge?
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. 🎙️ Get full show notes here!https://bit.ly/no-spend-challenge 📘 Order the book herehttps://bit.ly/BWYL-podcast 💌 Want to save money and spend better in just 5 minutes? Get The Friendletter! Our FREE 3x weekly newsletter with freebies, deals, and savings hacks.https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/friendletter 📣 Submit your bill of the week and get a shoutout from ushttps://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill-of-the-week/ 💸 Check out our monthly challenge communityhttp://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/club 👉🏼 Subscribe for more on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/frugalfriends 💃🏼 Hang out with us on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/frugalfriendspodcast/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.

Jun 13, 2025 • 48min
How to Get Off The Hot Girl Hamster Wheel with Katie Gatti Tassin
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. 🎙️ Get full show notes here!https://bit.ly/hotgirldetox 📘 Order the book herehttps://bit.ly/BWYL-podcast 💌 Want to save money and spend better in just 5 minutes? Get The Friendletter! Our FREE 3x weekly newsletter with freebies, deals, and savings hacks.https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/friendletter 📣 Submit your bill of the week and get a shoutout from ushttps://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/bill-of-the-week/ 💸 Check out our monthly challenge communityhttp://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/club 👉🏼 Subscribe for more on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/frugalfriends 💃🏼 Hang out with us on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/frugalfriendspodcast/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.

Jun 10, 2025 • 41min
How to Save Money on Organic Groceries
Discover how to enjoy organic groceries without breaking the bank! Learn effective strategies like foraging, food swapping, and buying from farmers markets. The hosts delve into the benefits of supporting local farms and avoiding greenwashing pitfalls. Budgeting tips reveal must-have organic items while sharing relatable family anecdotes. Plus, hear about their favorite Costco finds that simplify meal prep and fun community interactions. It's a treasure trove of practical advice for savvy shoppers!

Jun 6, 2025 • 49min
Social Media Scams THAT ALMOST FOOLED US!
Dive into the deceptive world of social media scams that can catch even the savviest off guard! Discover how AI is enhancing scammers' tactics and learn to identify emotional manipulation in online ads. Hear personal stories about elderly impersonation scams and the importance of community vigilance. Explore practical tips for safeguarding your finances and the fine line between genuine offers and misleading schemes. Get ready to boost your skepticism and stay one step ahead of fraudsters!


