Articles by Shay Huntley
Shatel (Shay) Huntley is a trusted grocery couponing expert with over 5 years of professional writing experience. She holds a BA in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University and has authored hundreds of practical articles on maximizing savings and inflation-beating hacks that help budget-conscious families slash grocery bills.
A Direct Support Professional honored with a 2025 Special Olympics award for empowering adults with special needs, Shay combines analytical rigor, real-world discipline, and empathy in every actionable tip she delivers.
Aldi has built a loyal fan base by offering no-frills shopping, low prices, and surprisingly good quality. But even seasoned shoppers can make mistakes that cost them time, money, or both. From skipping must-have deals to misunderstanding Aldi’s unique layout, the store’s quirks can trip up even the savviest customer. That’s why we asked Aldi…
McDonald’s is shaking up the fast-food scene in 2025 with a bold new restaurant concept that’s turning heads and redefining convenience. Introducing CosMc’s, a small-format, beverage-led spin-off that blends nostalgia with innovation. This futuristic venture aims to capture the growing demand for customizable drinks and quick bites, all while offering a unique customer experience. With…
In 2025, with rising food prices and a plethora of health trends, it’s easy to fall into the trap of spending money on foods that promise health benefits but offer little nutritional value. Nutritionists have identified several such items that may not be worth the investment. By recognizing these, you can make more informed choices,…
Grocery loyalty programs have long promised savings in exchange for customer data. However, not all shoppers have equal access to these digital deals. In San Diego, the City Council unanimously approved an ordinance banning grocery stores from offering digital-only coupons, aiming to ensure that seniors, low-income households, and those without internet access aren’t left out…
New York boasts an incredible food scene, including a fierce love for hamburgers. From classic fast-food joints satisfying late-night cravings to trendy fast-casual spots focusing on quality ingredients, New Yorkers have plenty of excellent options when a burger craving strikes. While countless independent restaurants offer amazing gourmet creations, several hamburger chains have established a strong…
Eating on a budget doesn’t have to mean boring, repetitive meals lacking excitement or flavor. With a little creativity and focus on inexpensive staple ingredients, you can create dishes that are not only affordable but also feel surprisingly satisfying, flavorful, and even a bit luxurious. Elevating simple ingredients through technique, presentation, and smart flavor combinations…
Your local supermarket likely holds more culinary adventure than you realize. Beyond the familiar apples and potatoes, many stores stock a surprising array of “exotic” fruits, vegetables, spices, and ingredients from around the world. These items might be tucked away in the international foods aisle, integrated into the produce section, or waiting in the freezer…
As summer 2025 approaches, many travelers are eager to hit the road or take to the skies. However, understanding how current travel costs stack up against pre-pandemic prices is crucial for budgeting and planning. While some expenses have stabilized or even decreased, others have surged, impacting overall trip affordability. Let’s delve into the specifics to…
Major retailers handle vast amounts of sensitive customer data, from payment card details to personal contact information and online account credentials. Unfortunately, this makes them prime targets for cybercriminals. Over the years, numerous retail giants have suffered significant data breaches, exposing millions of customers to potential identity theft, financial fraud, and privacy violations. These incidents…
Finding a great travel deal feels fantastic – the promise of adventure at an affordable price can be irresistible. Unfortunately, scammers often exploit this excitement, creating fake deals or misleading offers designed specifically to steal your money or sensitive personal information. Falling victim to a travel scam can quickly turn vacation dreams into financial nightmares…
Grocery stores manage massive amounts of inventory with varying shelf lives. While they employ stock rotation systems (“first in, first out”) and track expiration dates, occasionally expired or past-date products slip through the cracks and remain on shelves. Selling expired items, especially certain types like infant formula, can violate regulations and pose health risks. While…
Barbecue is more than just a cooking method in America; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural tradition with fierce regional loyalties. Debating which states have the best BBQ is a passionate, often contentious, pastime. The truth is, “best” is highly subjective and depends entirely on your preferred style. Different regions champion distinct meats, sauces, and smoking…
As grocery prices continue to climb in 2025, feeding a family on a tight budget has become more challenging than ever. Many families are searching for ways to cut costs without sacrificing nutrition or taste—and that’s where smart, budget-friendly meal prep comes in. With just a little planning and creativity, you can stretch your grocery…
If you’ve been putting off that vacation because hotel prices seem out of control, you’re not alone. But a refreshing new concept is starting to gain momentum: pay-what-you-can hotels. These innovative stays invite guests to pay what they believe their experience was worth, offering a flexible, judgment-free approach to travel costs. Some travelers are paying…
If it feels like your grocery bill has been climbing for months, you’re not alone. Across the country, inflation-weary shoppers have been cutting back, forcing major grocery chains to rethink their pricing strategies. In a race to keep customers loyal, some stores are now slashing prices on popular staples—and shoppers are starting to notice. These…
Imagine paying more for your favorite bag of chips or candy bar every time you hit the checkout line. That could soon become reality as new proposals to raise the junk food tax gain traction across the U.S. Supporters argue that taxing unhealthy food could help fight rising obesity rates, while critics worry it would…