Extreme Couponing = Extreme Giving!

I’ve heard a lot of mixed reviews about the new TLC show, Extreme Couponers, which helps how to show extreme couponing skills.  I’ve heard that it has inspired some, but has also made couponers look like crazies.

I wanted to shed some light on some of the negativity, that maybe wasn’t portrayed the best on the show.  I had a chance to interview Nathan Engels (AKA Mr. Coupon), & the creator of WeUseCoupons.com.  Yes, he is an extreme couponer – but I want to point out that he is also an extreme giver!!

Here is what he said about the products he bought when the show was filmed:

“I built something that was about 15 feet tall!!  They filmed it’s creation and it was almost entirely donated to local food banks!  TLC also filmed the giving aspect of couponing!!  During this episode we donated around $6000-$7000 in product to a fantastic pantry!!!  (we share this not to brag, but to lead by example, giving is such an amazing aspect of couponing!!!)”

Here are some questions/answers from Nathan about his extreme couponing experiences:

1.  How long have you been couponing?  How long has weusecoupons.com been around for?

I’ve been couponing since 2007, in 2008 I started teaching free coupon classes.  So many people wanted to ask me questions after the classes.  So I started a forum where they could post topics and ask questions, that’s how WUC started!!

2.  How did you learn the skills to become involved in “extreme couponing?”

It just happened I guess.  Paying attention and learning a little everyday!!

3.  With all of the items you get for cheap/free, how much do you give away?  Where do you donate?

I donate primarily to three organizations, my church, my elementary school’s resource center for needy kids, and a charity supported by the United Way.  As for how much I give away, last year we gave around $45,000 (in product) away to different organizations and charities. WOW!!!!!GO NATHAN GO!!!

4.  Have other family members/friends jumped on board with couponing since you do it?

Yes, my mom ROCKS coupons!!!  She is awesome.  My wife enjoys it also!

5.  What advice can you give to someone who is skeptical or thinks using coupons just takes too much time or is annoying?

Try it.  It can’t hurt to put a little effort into saving money!!!

6.  What is the worst shopping experience you have had in terms of a cashier that was less than pleasant when you came through his/her line with all of your coupons?  How did you handle it?

I’ve had some mean people, trust me!  But like in any difficult situation a smile goes a LONG way.  I generally will call the corporate offices if necessary.  But I’ll be honest, generally I don’t ever have problems!

Here is a video that interviews Nathan from WeUseCoupons.com about the show:

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