Hi. I’m Leah Ingram, and I’m a writer, author and money-saving expert. I am the author of 15 books on topics ranging from frugal living to paying for college to saving money on a wedding.
In addition, over the years, I have partnered with national brands to bring my unique, smart-spending advice to national audiences. Some of those partners have been Chase Ultimate Rewards, Walmart and Family Dollar stores, among others. In that role, I’ve appeared on TV, radio, online and in print, including on “Good Morning America” and CNBC.
Mission of the Real Sophisticated Consumer blog
My mission is to help you become a real sophisticated consumer and get the most bang for your buck. I understand that you’re busy. I am, too. So, as you’re looking for smart shopping info, I’m here to help you get the most value for your time and money.
That’s my mission in writing the Real Sophisticated Consumer blog. FYI, we may have met in the past when this blog started in 2008. At that time it was called Suddenly Frugal.
Books by Leah Ingram
I’m the author of 15 books.
My latest is The Complete Guide to Paying For College, a guide for middle-class families on how to afford college. Recently, we put our two daughters through college. Both are now in graduate school.
In addition, I’m the author of Suddenly Frugal: How to Live Happier and Healthier for Less. It compiles my unique money-saving advice, including how a family can save $25,000 a year. It is, by far, my best-selling book.
You can also listen to Suddenly Frugal as an audiobook, especially if you have an Audible subscription.
My second title in the Suddenly Frugal series is Toss, Keep, Sell!: The Suddenly Frugal Guide to Cleaning Out the Clutter and Cashing In
Finally, I’ve written many books about weddings, gifts and etiquette.
If you’re interested in pitching me, please check out my portfolio on Muck Rack.
Other places I’m sharing my expertise
This is hardly my only online endeavor. For instance, I’m a regular contributor to Food Drink Life, where I cover lifestyle topics.
Dealspotr recently shared my advice on saving money at CVS.
Plus, Redfin quoted me as an expert for managing and designing vacation rentals. Check out the article we were featured in: Tips on Designing & Decorating Your Vacation Rental | Redfin
And because I’m not busy enough {sarcasm}, I like to give back to my community whenever possible.
Volunteer Work
Town of Kennebunk, Maine
Committee Member (2024-Present)
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Committee
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock, PA
First Lady (2018-2023)
Butler County Family YMCA
Butler, PA
Board Member (2019-2022)
New Hope-Solebury Community School
New Hope, PA
Board Member (2007-2008)
Ingram Media Group
The Ingram Media Group is a Limited Liability Corporation formed in Maine in 2024. It oversees all of the websites and blogs that writer Leah Ingram operates. They are, as of 10/2/2024:
Ingram Media Group umbrella:
Favorite Tools
Here are some of my favorite tools for blogging.