About Me

My name is Amanda. I’ve lived a lot of places, have had a lot of jobs and have been living on a shoestring budget my entire adult life.

In my 20s, I was a professional actress in NYC. I had all kinds of jobs when I lived in New York. You name it and I probably did it: bartender, waitress, nanny, tutor, errand runner, personal assistant, birthday party entertainer (for the kids, totally G rated). I’ve always been thrifty, but living on a shoestring in NYC pushed my frugal tendencies into overdrive!

A month before turning 30, I got my first “real” job at an arts nonprofit in Durham, NC and hit another major milestone. I bought a house! I could afford it because I’ve pinched-pennies and saved for a rainy day since I was a kid. Working in nonprofit is rewarding, but it pays nada. So, this single gal usually has a second job or a side hustle lined up, as I think all ladies should.

Like many, I was laid off because of the economic impact of the Coronavirus. Unfortunately, this isn’t my first rodeo; I’ve had the misfortune of losing my job multiple times. Prior to the pandemic, I was unemployed for a year and a half in 2018 and 2019.

You Can’t Choose Your Circumstances, But You CAN Choose How To Handle It.

Unemployment is an emotional rollercoaster that drudges up so many feelings. It calls for a good therapist and the support of amazing friends and family. For some reason, though, I knew this turn of events was going to change my life for the better because I was going to do something different.

I started this blog to share my personal experience and advice on getting the most mileage out of a modest income. My thrifty ways are the reason I’ve never bounced a check, missed a mortgage payment or paid late fees… ever. I want to help you harness your potential and reach your long term, financial goals.

Let Me Help You Turn The Page On Bad Spending Habits.

In this crazy, uncertain time, you have enough to worry about. The reason I didn’t lose my -ish when I lost my job is because I knew my finances were in good shape. Curious about how I developed my financial outlook?