The Frugal Feast

Phoenix P

The Frugal Feast   Big life. Small budget.   Who says living well has to cost a fortune?   The Frugal Feast is the podcast for anyone who wants to get more out of life without spending more money. Each episode serves up practical tips, creative ideas, and real-world strategies to help you stretch every dollar while still enjoying the things that matter most.   From grocery shopping hacks and easy, budget-friendly recipes to saving on entertainment, travel, home essentials, and everyday purchases, The Frugal Feast proves that frugal doesn’t mean boring—it means intentional. Whether you’re paying off debt, building savings, living on a fixed income, or simply looking for smarter ways to spend, you’ll discover fresh ideas, money-saving challenges, product comparisons, and inspiring stories from people who have learned to live abundantly on less.   Pull up a chair, grab a seat at The Frugal Feast, and discover that the richest life isn’t measured by how much you spend—it’s measured by how wisely you use what you have.

  1. 6d ago

    The Thrift-Store Treasure Hunt: Curating a Capsule Wardrobe for Pennies

    In this episode, Michelle Rogers joins host CJ to reveal the secrets of building a chic, functional capsule wardrobe without breaking the bank. Michelle shares her step-by-step method for identifying high-quality, timeless pieces at thrift stores, consignment shops, and online resale platforms. Listeners will learn how to create a color palette that maximizes outfit combinations, how to spot durable fabrics and classic cuts, and how to avoid common thrift-store pitfalls like buying items that need costly alterations. Michelle also opens up about her personal journey from a cluttered, expensive closet to a streamlined, budget-friendly wardrobe that saved her over $1,200 in one year. With practical tips on seasonal rotation, maintenance, and when to splurge on new basics, this episode proves that style and savings can go hand in hand. Tune in to transform your closet and your budget.

    The Thrift-Store Treasure Hunt: Curating a Capsule Wardrobe for Pennies

  2. Oct 28

    The Pet-Care Penny Pincher: Slash Vet Bills & Spoiling Costs Without Sacrificing Care

    In this episode, host CJ sits down with budgeting expert Michelle Rogers to tackle one of the most overlooked areas of frugal living: pet care. Michelle shares her proven strategies for cutting pet-related expenses without compromising your animal's health or happiness. Learn how to perform simple at-home health checks that can catch issues early, master the art of DIY grooming that saves hundreds per year, and decode pet food labels to get premium nutrition at bargain prices. She also reveals creative ways to source free or low-cost toys, bedding, and accessories, plus insider tips on building a relationship with your vet that can lead to discounts and payment plans. Michelle's personal story of nursing her senior dog through a health scare on a tight budget will inspire and empower you. By the end, you'll have a clear action plan to trim your pet budget by 30% or more while giving your companion the love and care they deserve. Subscribe now for more money-saving episodes that help you live big on a small budget.

    The Pet-Care Penny Pincher: Slash Vet Bills & Spoiling Costs Without Sacrificing Care

  3. Oct 27

    The Secret Menu of Savings: How to Haggle Your Way to Lower Bills

    In this episode, CJ sits down with frugal living expert Michelle Rogers to unlock the surprisingly simple skill of strategic haggling. Most of us never think to negotiate anything beyond a car or a house, but Michelle reveals that almost every recurring bill and major purchase has a hidden 'secret menu' of discounts just waiting for you to ask. She shares her proven, step-by-step script for politely calling your internet provider, disputing a medical bill, and even asking for a discount at the checkout counter of your favorite local store. The conversation covers the psychology behind why businesses say yes, the exact phrases that work, and the common mistakes that get you a quick 'no.' Michelle also shares a personal story about how a single, uncomfortable five-minute phone call saved her $600 on a dental procedure. By the end, listeners will have a practical, low-stress framework to start negotiating their own bills this week, turning a dreaded conversation into a powerful money-saving tool.

    The Secret Menu of Savings: How to Haggle Your Way to Lower Bills

  4. Oct 26

    The Thrifty Thriver's Guide to Family Fun: Free & Low-Cost Weekend Adventures

    Are you tired of hearing 'I'm bored' on weekends, but worried about the cost of family outings? In this episode, Michelle Rogers shares her playbook for creating magical family moments on a micro-budget. We explore three main strategies: uncovering hidden free events in your community, transforming everyday errands into mini-adventures, and hosting themed staycation days at home. Michelle shares a personal story about how her family turned a rainy Saturday into their most memorable 'camping trip' ever using just blankets, flashlights, and homemade trail mix. You'll learn practical tips for scouting free activities, packing smart snacks, and managing expectations so everyone has fun. Say goodbye to expensive boredom busters and hello to a season of rich experiences that cost almost nothing. Tune in and discover that the best family memories don't have a price tag—they have intention.

    The Thrifty Thriver's Guide to Family Fun: Free & Low-Cost Weekend Adventures

  5. Oct 25

    The $0-Boost Side Hustle: Turn Trash into Cash with Upcycled Crafts

    Feeling the pinch of a tight budget? In this episode, Michelle Rogers reveals the surprising art of upcycling—turning trash and thrift-store treasures into cash. Learn how to spot hidden value in everyday discards, master simple DIY techniques that require zero upfront investment, and discover the best platforms to sell your creations for real profit. From turning old pallets into rustic decor to transforming glass jars into trendy organizers, Michelle shares her favorite money-making craft ideas that fit any skill level. She also opens up about her own journey from skeptical scrounger to successful seller, proving that one person's junk really can be another's paycheck. Whether you're looking to pay off debt, build a savings cushion, or simply enjoy a creative outlet that pays for itself, this episode gives you a practical, step-by-step roadmap to start earning from home today—without spending a dime to begin.

    The $0-Boost Side Hustle: Turn Trash into Cash with Upcycled Crafts

  6. Oct 24

    The $5 Gift Closet: Never Pay Full Price for a Present Again

    Ever panic-bought an overpriced gift because you forgot a birthday? In this episode, Michelle Rogers shows you how to create a smart gift closet stocked with thoughtful, quality presents for $5 or less—sourced year-round from clearance racks, after-holiday sales, dollar stores, and creative DIY projects. You'll learn the psychology of gift-giving on a budget, the best times to stock up, and how to wrap everything beautifully without spending extra. Michelle shares her personal story of turning a chaotic gift-giving year into a stress-free, money-saving system that impressed her family and friends. By the end, you'll have a simple action plan to start your own gift closet this week, save hundreds annually, and never show up empty-handed again. Tune in and transform the way you celebrate—without the financial hangover.

    The $5 Gift Closet: Never Pay Full Price for a Present Again

  7. Oct 23

    The Hidden Cost of Convenience: Why Your Time-Saving Purchases Are Draining Your Wallet

    In this episode, Michelle Rogers joins CJ to uncover the sneaky ways convenience is costing you more than you think. From pre-shredded cheese and bottled water to subscription services and fast-food runs, we break down the real price of 'saving time.' Michelle shares practical, low-effort alternatives that slash grocery bills, reduce impulse buys, and free up cash for what truly matters. You'll hear her personal story of how a busy work week led to a $40 convenience spiral—and the 5-minute habit that reversed it. By the end, you'll have a simple 'convenience audit' you can do this weekend to spot hidden leaks in your spending. Whether you're stretched thin or just want smarter habits, this episode proves that being frugal isn't about deprivation—it's about being intentional with both your money and your minutes.

    The Hidden Cost of Convenience: Why Your Time-Saving Purchases Are Draining Your Wallet

  8. Oct 21

    The Utility Bill Audit: Slash Your Recurring Monthly Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

    In this episode, CJ and Michelle Rogers dive deep into one of the most overlooked areas of household budgeting: the recurring monthly bills for electricity, water, gas, internet, and even insurance. Most families are overpaying simply because they never question the fine print, never re-shop their rates, and never notice the small fees that quietly pile up. Michelle shares her proven step-by-step method for conducting a full utility bill audit—from spotting billing errors and outdated rate plans to negotiating better deals and using free energy-saving tools offered by providers. Together, they break down three practical strategies: reading your bill like a pro, comparing plans and switching without hassle, and implementing low-cost home tweaks that reduce usage dramatically. CJ adds a personal story about how auditing his own utility bills saved him over $40 a month, which funded a family movie night tradition. By the end, listeners will feel empowered to take control of their recurring expenses and redirect those savings toward what matters most.

    The Utility Bill Audit: Slash Your Recurring Monthly Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort
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About

The Frugal Feast   Big life. Small budget.   Who says living well has to cost a fortune?   The Frugal Feast is the podcast for anyone who wants to get more out of life without spending more money. Each episode serves up practical tips, creative ideas, and real-world strategies to help you stretch every dollar while still enjoying the things that matter most.   From grocery shopping hacks and easy, budget-friendly recipes to saving on entertainment, travel, home essentials, and everyday purchases, The Frugal Feast proves that frugal doesn’t mean boring—it means intentional. Whether you’re paying off debt, building savings, living on a fixed income, or simply looking for smarter ways to spend, you’ll discover fresh ideas, money-saving challenges, product comparisons, and inspiring stories from people who have learned to live abundantly on less.   Pull up a chair, grab a seat at The Frugal Feast, and discover that the richest life isn’t measured by how much you spend—it’s measured by how wisely you use what you have.

Information

  • Creator
    Phoenix P
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © UNDERGROUND ARTIST NETWORK/CJ PEREZ
  • Show Website
    The Frugal Feast