The Fun Frugal Free Podcast

Traveling at first glance, can be difficult. If you don't properly prepare, there can be tons of unsuspecting costs when it comes to flights, accomodations, and food. But with travel hacking (i.e. the ability to use credit card points to pay for traveling expenses) it can be affordable to FREE. In today's episode, we talk with Katie Holden about how to travel hack for beginners. We learn her tips and tricks, from her years of experience travel hacking, and how to put our first step forward in this area. We also talk about: Chase Sapphire credit card rewards (explained) Conversion of credit card points to money (cents or dollars) If all-inclusive resorts are really more cost-effective than separate accommodations, food, and transportation. Resources: Doctor of Credit What does a boxfish look like??? Where to find Katie: Instagram: @katiestraveltricks Website Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages, found 5 general categories through which humans give and receive love. The categories are: words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, gift giving (and receiving), and acts of service. Each of these love languages plays uniquely into our lives, and they help us understand our loved ones. In today's episode we go into depth on each of these love languages, what makes them tick, what makes them happy, and how they relate to our money mentalities. We also discuss: The importance of physical touch Thorough communication of your needs Understanding the differences between people's love languages Resources: Sea-sential fact - Intrauterine cannibalism The 5 Love Languages The 5 Love Languages Quiz Previous Episode: The Psychology of Money Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Hawaii is the DREAM destination for many folks to visit. The beaches, warm water, food, and culture make it a prime place for relaxation. But vacationing on an island? Yeah, it's expensive. And if you want to ever live there (like I do), there are definitely some things you need to consider and thoroughly budget out. Don't worry though. Both vacationing and living in Hawaii CAN be done! And it can be an amazing trip! But it requires some proper planning. In today's episode, I chat with Katie from @debtfreephoenix on how she and her husband, Mike, make it work living in Hawaii. We dive into Oahu living and learn some tips and tricks on how to make paradise happen on a budget. We also talk about: Where to find the most affordable food Best transportation methods to use Resident Hawaiian discounts Where to find Katie: Instagram: Katie & Mike, @debtfreephoenix Etsy Shop: Budget Budgie --> Check out this amazing stickers! Small Business: Olivine Allure --> Content creation business! Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

If you're are trying to get out of debt fast, or you just want to make some extra money on the side, side hustles are a great way to achieve your goals. As someone who has used side hustles (in addition to my job) to help pay off $30,000 in combined student loan debt, I'm here to tell you about my experience! Today's episode is all on what side hustles I have personally done to save money, and other side hustles that my friends and family swear by. I don't want to encourage you to do jobs that I have never done before, because I cannot vouch for them. But I do want to set you up for success with as much information on these jobs as possible. I also talk about: How plasma donation works (and what the pay is) What is product testing and is it legit? Part-time jobs you can do to make quick cash Resources: Plasma Donation Plasma donation centers near you Product Tasting Merieux Product Testing Mystery Shopping Field Agent App Cashback Apps Swagbucks Ibotta Fetch Rewards Class Action Lawsuit Websites https://www.topclassactions.com https://www.classactionrebates.com/ Language Help DuoLingo Rent Your Car Turo GetAround Becoming a Mover Dolly App Become a Handyman Handy App Wrapping Your Car in Ads for Cash Wrapify Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Healthcare in America can be expensive, there's no denying that. And in the past (like me), you might have second guessed really needing to go to the doctors, because you didn't want to pay all of the fees. But you don't have to worry about that any longer! In today's episode, I chat with Krystal Castillo, a registered Emergency Room Nurse, to talk about all things healthcare and hospitals. We also talk about: How to lower your hospital bills Not-for-profit hospitals Generic vs name-brand medication Where to find Krystal: Instagram: Krystal, @krystlcastl Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

When it comes to reducing your carbon footprint, sustainable living is the way to GO! Like minimalism, sustainable living is a philosophy of intentionality, where you make positive changes to your lifestyle to minimize usage of Earth's resources. So what type of changes does this lifestyle entail? That's what today's discussion is all about. From food waste to natural cleaners, Kealy Parrish takes us into her world on she lives sustainably, and how we can too. We also talk about: Food waste tips Pros and cons of shampoo bars Natural detergents Resources: Dropps, @dropps  Hello HiBAR, @hellohibar  Go Less Than, @golessthan  Michelle (candle maker), @fringeandfire  Homemade Crafts, @toasted_rooster Where to find Kealy: Instagram: Kealy Parrish, @sustainablefinances Facebook Community Hadley Saves for A Puppy Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Money is important, for sure. But what is even more important than that is understanding our mental and emotional health. In today's episode we talk with Monica Giang, a social services worker, who gets into her past traumas and how she's overcome them. By learning how to be open with these types of difficult discussions, we open the door for more conversations and connections with others (who may also be going through similar things).  We also talk about: Services you can use to better your mental health Developing a positive money mindset Forgiveness and boundaries to those who have wronged you Resources: Social Services Resources  Find a Therapist Domestic Abuse Hotline Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255 Where to find Monica: Instagram: Monica, @healgrowloveyourself Email: healgrowloveyourself@gmail.com Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Paying off your debt doesn't mean that you can't have fun and explore new areas. In fact, traveling on a budget can be SO much fun! In today's episode, Liza from @debtfreetotravel, talks to us about her debt free journey and all the traveling she's done in between. She is a frugal traveler at heart, who wants others to be able to take the plunge into exploration (on a budget). From a solo trip to Thailand in 2018 to Egypt in 2021. Learn more about how you can pay off debt without feeling burnt out, and some cost-effective traveling tips. We also talk about: Learning your comfort levels before traveling Cost effective lodging tips Trying 22 different Doritos flavors in Egypt Where to find Liza: Instagram: @debtfreetotravel Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

When it comes to living intentionally, there are some questions you need to ask yourself: What makes you happy? What stresses you out? Do you have too much clutter in your home? What do you wish you could do more of? In today's episode, Jo from @lifeglowson, talks to us about how we can incorporate minimalism into our daily lives and how she learned how to practice intentionality during her debt free journey. Jo teaches us how we can reconsider our purchases and make the most of what we have. We also talk about: Thought-provoking questions to ask yourself to help define your goals Decluttering tips for beginners How to get your partner on board your minimalist journey Resources: Books Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach I Will Teach You to be Rich - Ramit Sethi  Where to find Jo: Instagram: Joline, @lifeglowson    Website: http://lifeglowson.com/ Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

For many students, college is a fun learning experience. But for others, it is a stressful time figuring out how to pay for an education. In today's episode, we chat with Rebekah, @blissfulwallet, on how she navigates her journey through college on a budget and how she focuses on self-care. Everyone's personal finance journey is unique. But we can learn tips and tricks along the way to help make college affordable and fun. We also talk about How community college can save you money Planning for future expenses What self-care can look like without spending money Resources: Instagram: Rebekah, @blissfulwallet Website: www.blissfulwallet.com Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/FunFrugalFree Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

When it comes to making financial decisions, your choices may not always be logical. That’s because your money is tied to your emotions, and it can be hard to separate them from one another. This is known as the “Psychology of Money” and it is important to understand. The more you can identify your attitude and feelings towards money, the more likely you are to rewrite your money identity and instill good habits. We also talk about: How your money habits are influenced by your emotions The 4 “Money Scripts” Ways you can change negative money behaviors Frugal Tip Shoutout: Rosie, @frugirlfriendly Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

It's 2021, friend! That means it's a new year to crush your money goals. But a lot of New Year's resolutions fail to be accomplished for several reasons: lack of planning, overconfidence, not tracking progress, not willing to sacrifice, and not being ready to change. It's because of these reasons that 23% of people quit their goals just one week after New Years. * dramatic gasp!!!* But today's episode is all about how to make your financial New Year's resolutions last! Because you CAN do it. Through proper planning, specifying your goals, measuring your progress, following actionable steps, creating realistic (authentic) goals, and developing a proper timeline, you are set up for success. This method is known as S.M.A.R.T. goals and it makes you 42%  more likely to achieve them. We also talk about: The 1% Rule Giving your money a job How to forgive yourself for your money mistakes Frugal Tip Shout Out: Uterine Carrier, a.k.a. my Mamma! Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

The Christmas holidays can be a whirlwind of emotions, from happiness to financial stress, it's important to keep your money priorities in order. When it comes to the season of giving, sticking to your holiday budget is vital. And the thing we have to understand, is that your holiday budget isn't just about gifts! In fact, it encompasses so many other categories that you have to be aware of.  Today we talk about how to have uncomfortable conversations when it comes to establishing your Holiday financial boundaries, and we also dive into the different holiday budget categories you should be aware of. We also discuss: 2019 Christmas shopping statistics How to afford presents on a tight budget Earning cashback on online shopping (through different platforms) Frugal Tip Shout Out:  Koda, @kgbudgetwithme Resources: Cashback Sites Ibotta Rakuten Swagbucks Honey Retail Me Not Gift Exchange Rules White Elephant Christmas

In our first ever interview, we dive into the life of Jess Takimoto, a fitness entrepreneur, and follow her journey from a business major to owner of her own fitness company. We talk about the parallels between personal finance and physical fitness, and focus on how to create goals that you can stick to.  It's not all about numbers, weight, or percentages. It's about creating intentional goals that you can actually achieve, and that still allow you to challenge yourself. Personal finance and physical fitness have a lot of similarities. And what you learn with fitness translates to your money management. We also discuss How you can live a life you love while paying off debt Building your confidence with physical fitness Getting out of your comfort zone Frugal Tip Shout Out: Instagram: Jessi, @levelfreedom Resources: Instagram: Jess Takimoto, @jesstakimotofitness

Whether it's school districts, state lines, or relationships, boundaries come in all shapes and sizes. Learning how to create healthy boundaries between you, your money, and your family/friends is paramount for your financial health. Although it can be hard to set boundaries with your loved ones and say "No", you have to put your financial security first. Establishing money boundaries lets you prioritize your goals, get out of debt, and save for retirement. It also strengthens your mental and emotional health, because you are only spending money on the things you want and need, and not on other items/experiences you might feel "obligated" to buy. We also talk about: Common boundary examples Knowing your rights Implementing consequences when a boundary is crossed Frugal Tip Shout Out: Instagram: Olivia, @via.mindset Resources National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

How can you develop proper money management skills if you don't know where to start? I get it. Understanding finances can be a difficult, confusing, or even complex topic for many. And if you weren't educated on it growing up, it can be really nerve-racking trying to figure out where to begin. In this episode we talk about basic money skills every adult should know to help secure their financial future. From learning how to create a budget to basic investing principles, you will learn the core pillars on how to manage your money. And remember, there are so many ways to educate yourself. You may not have learned how to manage your finances growing up, but you have the opportunity right now to change that. We also talk about: Free platforms to learn about finances Identifying your money mentality Debt snowball vs Debt Avalanche pay off methods Episode Edit: @23:25 --> $1,500 * 12 = 18,000 NOT $1,800. Good one, Cat. Good one. Frugal Tip Shout Out: Instagram: Megan, @frugaltaurus Resources: Education Platforms YouTube Instagram edX Skillshare HYSA Ally American Express Chime Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Minimalism is a lifestyle that has really started picking up traction this past decade. And no, it doesn't mean living like a monk (unless you want to). Minimalism is a tool that provides you the mental, emotional, and physical health to achieve your dreams, and it has everything to do with finances. Learning how to prioritize what gives your life meaning and getting rid of the excess, saves you the most money. In this episode, we learn more about the philosophy of minimalism and how it can improve your budget. We also talk about: Finding your happy - What does that mean? Minimalism with debt and investing How to reduce the chaos in your life Frugal Tip Shout Out: Instagram: Jess, @psychonfire Resources: Book: The Joy of Less Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Did you know that food is the third largest expenditure for Americans (average $372/month)? While it may be difficult to lower some of your bills, your grocery budget is one of your most flexible spending categories. Today's episode is all about tips and tricks for you to save on food to make the most out of your money. Lowering your food budget allows you to put more money towards your savings, debt, and future goals you want to achieve. It also reduces your food waste, as the average American throws out 1 lb. of food a day. We also talk about: What food is in season currently Generic food brands that are made by name-brand "competitors" How cash-back apps can really make your money stretch Frugal Tip Shout Out: Instagram: Cat, @cats_journeytofrugality Resources: Cash-back Apps: Ibotta Fetch Rewards Checkout 51 YouTube One Cute Couponer Coupon with Star Websites & Apps: Seasonal Food Guide Supercook BigOven Tasty Allrecipes Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com

Are you frugal? Or are you cheap? Maybe you're a combination of both! This episode is all about distinguishing the difference between these two different types of mentalities and how they can impact your finances. Frugality is a lifestyle of intentionality where you get the most out of your money, but NOT at the expense of quality. Being cheap is about always getting the lowest price possible, regardless of the long-term benefits. Listen in for more information on this juicy topic. We also talk about: Figuring out your money story (past and present) Being transparent and understanding your goals How you view money as a resource (scarce or abundant) Frugal Tip Shout Out: Instagram: Liza, @debtfreetotravel Let's connect: Website: www.funfrugalfree.com Instagram: @funfrugalfree Email: funfrugalfree3@gmail.com