Frugal Friends Podcast
Episode: 9 UNHINGED Ways People Save Money on Bills
Hosts: Jen Smith & Jill Sirianni
Release Date: August 12, 2025
Introduction to Extreme Frugality
In this episode, Jen and Jill delve into the realm of extreme frugality, exploring unconventional and often controversial methods people employ to slash their bills. They acknowledge that while these strategies may not suit everyone, they resonate with those deeply committed to frugal living, even if others find them unorthodox or concerning.
1. Sacrificing Personal Hygiene
Jen shares her personal experiment with the "no poo" method—opting out of traditional shampoo entirely ([04:48]).
Jen: "I stopped using shampoo... switched to the no poo method, which is meant to be really great for your hair."
While initially feeling good about her hair, she admits the method was more manageable because she was mostly at home with her children, making the less-than-ideal hair days less noticeable.
2. DIY Cleaning Hacks Gone Wrong
The hosts discuss the pitfalls of adopting do-it-yourself cleaning solutions without proper research ([06:10]).
Jill highlights how some frugal hacks, like using hand soap for dishes or excessive baking soda in vacuums, can lead to ineffective cleaning or even damage appliances.
Jill: "Baking soda is super fine and it's not good for your vacuum cleaner. It will actually like break your vacuum cleaner."
Jen echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of understanding the products and methods used to avoid counterproductive results.
3. Living Without Air Conditioning
Featuring Steven Pasquale, the episode explores the extreme measure of foregoing air conditioning entirely during the summer months ([11:53]).
Steven: "I did not use my air conditioning once this entire summer... I just go to sleep with the windows open."
Steven details his strategies, such as keeping blinds closed during the day, staying hydrated, and utilizing natural breezes at night. However, Jen cautions about potential downsides, especially in humid regions where AC acts as a dehumidifier, potentially leading to mold issues and other health hazards.
4. Extreme Minimalism: Selling Everything
Jen presents a satirical take on extreme minimalism by showcasing an overly simplified household ([20:31]).
Jen: "We're doing it. So extreme minimalism."
While intended humorously, the discussion underscores the challenges of implementing such a lifestyle in a family setting, questioning the practicality and sustainability of selling all possessions in pursuit of minimalism.
5. The Reality of Extreme Couponing
The hosts venture into the world of extreme couponing, where Jen shares her experience saving substantial amounts on groceries but also critiques its effectiveness as a genuine frugal strategy ([25:11]).
Jen: "Couponing is not frugal. It's not a way to save money. It's a hobby."
Jill adds that while couponing can yield impressive discounts, it often requires significant time and storage space, potentially undermining other essential money-saving practices like meal planning and reducing food waste.
6. Canceling Subscriptions on Unused Properties
Jen and Jill advise listeners to scrutinize and cancel subscriptions tied to secondary properties, such as lake houses, boats, or extra vehicles ([32:35]).
Jill: "With our additional properties, our summer homes... cancel all the subscriptions at your summer home in the winter when you're not using it."
This strategy helps eliminate recurring expenses that may go unnoticed, thereby streamlining budgets and reducing unnecessary financial drains.
7. Implementing Irritating Money-Saving Tips
The episode highlights money-saving tips that often provoke strong reactions or disagreements among listeners ([37:00]).
Jill shares personal anecdotes about cutting costs in ways that received backlash, such as not paying for WiFi or opting for hand-me-down clothes.
Jill: "The fact that I try to buy gender-neutral clothes so that all of my kids can wear them... People are mad that my hair looks so good without extensions."
Jen emphasizes that societal discomfort with these methods often stems from resistance to unconventional choices, urging listeners to find creative and personalized approaches to frugality.
8. Listener Story: Bill of the Week
A heartfelt segment celebrates Hershey from Southern Arizona, who proudly announces the payoff of over $130,000 in student loan debt ([42:42]).
Jill: "I paid off over $130,000 in student loan debt... it was a nice little treat to start off."
Jen and Jill commend Hershey's accomplishment, highlighting the importance of perseverance and strategic financial planning in achieving debt freedom.
9. Lightning Round: Embarrassing Money-Saving Fails
In a lighthearted exchange, both hosts share their most unorthodox money-saving mishaps:
- Jill recounts her failed attempt to purchase a designer wedding dress online, resulting in wasted money and time ([46:33]).
Jill: "I ended up finding a dress... I wasted $99 on a fail."
- Jen discusses her experience renovating an RV to flip for profit, which ultimately led to financial loss and significant stress ([48:55]).
Jen: "We broke even financially... it was so upsetting."
These stories serve as cautionary tales about the risks of pursuing extreme frugality without adequate research and planning.
Conclusion: Finding the Radical Middle
Jen and Jill conclude the episode by advocating for a balanced approach to frugality, termed the "radical middle." They encourage listeners to draw inspiration from extreme examples without fully adopting them, fostering creativity and personal tailoring in money-saving strategies.
Jen: "We want to create a community where people are rejecting extremes and finding their radical middle."
They invite listeners to engage by sharing their own frugal practices and to participate in community discussions, reinforcing the podcast's supportive and inclusive ethos.
Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
The hosts wrap up by celebrating listener achievements, promoting their book "Buy What You Love Without Going Broke" ([51:35]), and encouraging subscriptions and reviews. They emphasize the importance of community in navigating the complexities of frugality, offering both extreme and moderate strategies to suit diverse lifestyles.
Notable Quotes:
- Jen: "Couponing is not frugal. It's not a way to save money. It's a hobby." ([25:31])
- Steven Pasquale: "I did not use my air conditioning once this entire summer." ([11:53])
- Jill: "If the extreme tip makes somebody generally angry and you don't understand why, it's probably fine. It's probably good financially." ([37:07])
Key Takeaways:
- Extreme frugality can lead to unintended consequences and may not be sustainable for everyone.
- Creative and balanced approaches, such as the "radical middle," are advocated for effective money management.
- Personal anecdotes illustrate both the successes and pitfalls of adopting unorthodox saving methods.
- Community engagement and personalized strategies are essential for fostering a supportive frugal living environment.
For More Information:
- Book: Buy What You Love Without Going Broke (buywhatyoulovewithoutgoingbroke.com)
- Podcast Website: FrugalFriendsPodcast.com
- Follow and Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
Stay tuned for more insightful episodes where Jen and Jill continue to explore practical and entertaining ways to embrace frugality without sacrificing quality of life.