Host: Marianne Agudo
Guest: Song Kim – Volunteer Coordinator, Community Leader, Founder of Women Walkers and Hikers Club
About Our Guest
Song Kim immigrated to Canada 26 years ago and has dedicated herself to supporting newcomers and building community connections. As a volunteer coordinator in Saint John, New Brunswick, she helps newcomers navigate Canadian life while founding the Women Walkers and Hikers Club. Despite facing language barriers and raising three children while her husband studied full-time, Song developed practical money-saving strategies that she now shares with others.
Key Topics Covered
Essential Shopping Apps & Tools
- Flipp and Reebee apps – Digital flyer browsing and price comparison
- Why physical flyers are still valuable but apps are more convenient
Price Matching Strategies
- Which stores allow price matching: No Frills and Giant Tiger (Note: Walmart no longer offers this)
- How to price match effectively with apps
- Requirements: exact same item, brand, model, and size
Costco Shopping Secrets
- Price guarantee policy: Get refunds on price drops within 30 days (no receipt needed)
Additional Money-Saving Tips
- Rain checks – Get sale prices later when items are out of stock
- Seasonal shopping patterns – Rice goes on sale during Asian holidays (Lunar New Year, Chuseok)
- Cashback apps – Rakuten for online shopping
- Secondhand shopping – Hospice Shop for quality consignment items with tax benefits
Advanced Strategies
- Combining multiple strategies (coupons + price matching + apps)
- Canadian coupon apps: Save.ca, Checkout 51
- Strategic timing for bulk purchases
The Water Pump Philosophy
Song shares her life philosophy using the metaphor of an old-fashioned water pump: “You need to pour some water first to get water out.” This applies to:
- Giving before receiving in community and relationships
- Investing time and energy to see financial returns
- Building connections through volunteering that open doors to opportunities
Community Impact Through Volunteering
- How volunteering helps newcomers build English skills and confidence
- Creating connections that lead to job opportunities and community belonging
- The Women Walkers and Hikers Club as a model for community building
Key Takeaways
- Start simple – Use apps like Flipp to find the best prices
- Know your stores – Understand which ones offer price matching and guarantees
- Learn the codes – Costco’s pricing system can save you significant money
- Time your purchases – Take advantage of seasonal sales patterns
- Give to receive – Community involvement creates unexpected opportunities
- Plan your spending – Know where your money goes before you spend it
Resources Mentioned
- Apps: Flipp, Reebee, Rakuten, Save.ca, Checkout 51
- Stores for price matching: No Frills, Giant Tiger
- Best practices: Costco membership benefits and policies
- Community involvement: Local volunteer opportunities
Connect With Song Kim
Song Kim volunteers in the Saint John, New Brunswick area and leads the Women Walkers and Hikers Club. She regularly conducts financial literacy workshops focused on practical money-saving strategies for newcomers and families.
About Unpacked & Empowered Finances
Hosted by Marianne Agudo, this podcast focuses on practical financial advice and empowerment stories, particularly for newcomers and young adults navigating financial independence.
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