Regarding the Q&A…I am a believer in ethical spending. While the earth is getting hotter and more polluted, while we have more ways to support fair labor, I think it’s really important for consumers to do their part. Our choices don’t have to be perfect, but I think we need to do what we reasonably can do. It need not be time-consuming or expensive.
One way to save money is to buy less. Take a moment to consider whether you need that one-more-thing cuts down on unnecessary spending and unnecessary natural resources. Cutting down on food waste is a huge – meal planning makes this happen, and once you plan some meals, just repeat your menus to get in a groove. I joined a Facebook group on “zero waste” as a helpful resource.
Buy secondhand, give or sell your unwanted items away to others, or swap things with others. Some resources that have helped me are local consignment shops, online consignment shops, local moms groups, and my local Buy Nothing group.
Some ways to shorten research: find a group or blog that is like-minded, and follow their recommendations. There are also great apps, like Seafood Watch, which I use at the fish counter. In other words, use other people’s research.
I know I am late to comment, but I hope this helps someone. I think doing a little bit, if that’s what you can do, is significant!

I’m glad she touched on how to discuss money with kids. My parents were pretty good about educating us about money but that’s something we want to be extra mindful with when it comes to our son!

@DVStudent – hopefully! And hey, only 20 months to go 🙂