Optimal Finance Daily - Financial Independence and Money Advice - podcast cover

Optimal Finance Daily - Financial Independence and Money Advice

Optimal Living Daily | Diania Merriamoldpodcast.com
Optimal Finance Daily, hosted by Diania Merriam, the innovative mind behind the personal finance conference EconoMe, takes you on an enlightening journey through the world of personal finance. Each episode brings to life the most compelling and practical advice from leading financial bloggers and experts. Diania’s engaging narration and insightful commentary transform complex financial concepts into relatable, actionable insights. Whether it’s budgeting, investing, debt management, or money mindfulness, she covers it all, making financial wisdom accessible to everyone. Gain not just knowledge, but also the motivation to apply it in your daily life. It's not just a source of personal finance tips; it’s a daily companion that guides you towards financial independence and savvy money management, all delivered with Diania's trademark enthusiasm and expertise. By focusing on early retirement, financial independence, and saving money, each episode provides you with the tools needed to achieve your financial goals. This podcast is designed for those passionate about personal finance, early retirement, financial independence, and saving money. It’s your go-to source for practical advice on managing your finances, saving money, and working towards early retirement. Each episode offers actionable steps to foster financial independence and secure your financial future. Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...

Episodes

3069: How To Budget After Bankruptcy by Kalen Bruce of Money Mini Blog on Frugality

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3069: Rebuilding your finances after bankruptcy is challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for a fresh start. Kalen Bruce outlines practical steps to regain control, from tracking expenses and cutting non-essential spending to leveraging budgeting tools and creating a sustainable financial plan. By taking a proactive approach, you can turn...

Mar 11, 202511 minEp. 3069

3068: [Part 2] Why Is Taking Some Financial Risk Important by Vicki Cook & Amy Blacklock of Women Who Money

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3068: Taking financial risks wisely can be a game-changer for building long-term wealth. Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock break down how to educate yourself on investing, assess your risk tolerance, and make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. By continuously learning and adjusting your strategy over time, you can confidentl...

Mar 10, 202510 minEp. 3068

3067: [Part 1] Why Is Taking Some Financial Risk Important by Vicki Cook & Amy Blacklock of Women Who Money

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3067: Vicki Cook & Amy Blacklock emphasize that controlling your finances is key to securing your future, but simply saving money isn’t enough to build long-term wealth. Inflation erodes purchasing power, making it essential to take calculated financial risks for better returns. By understanding risk tolerance, diversifying investments, and ...

Mar 09, 202511 minEp. 3067

3066: First Principles Lifestyle by Colin Wright on Self-Discovery and How to Live Intentionally

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3066: Colin Wright explores the concept of a first principles lifestyle, applying the philosophical approach of breaking ideas down to their fundamental truths. By questioning societal assumptions and inherited beliefs, he advocates for intentional living based on personal values rather than external expectations. This method encourages deep...

Mar 09, 20259 minEp. 3066

3065: Personal Finance and The Long Game by Honey Smith with Get Rich Slowly How to Build Wealth

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3065: Personal finance is all about making smart sacrifices today to reap financial security tomorrow. Honey Smith explores how strategies like saving for retirement, maintaining an emergency fund, and paying off debt help build lasting wealth, even when they seem like tough choices in the short term. By prioritizing financial well-being and...

Mar 08, 202511 minEp. 3065

3064: 4 Budgeting Myths You Should Ignore by Kumiko of The Budget Mom

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3064: Budgeting doesn’t have to feel restrictive or complicated. Kumiko of The Budget Mom breaks down four common myths that hold people back from taking control of their finances, debunking the idea that budgeting is boring, too much math, or unnecessary. With a simple mindset shift, a budget can become a tool for financial freedom, allowin...

Mar 07, 202510 minEp. 3064

3063: There's Always Going To Be Something by Alacias Enger of My Sense With Cents on Radical Acceptance

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3063: Life is never without challenges, and waiting for a perfectly smooth path is an illusion. Alacias Enger explores the power of radical acceptance, letting go of resistance, and embracing the unexpected to grow into our fullest selves. By cultivating financial stability and a mindset of flow rather than fear, we can navigate life's inevi...

Mar 06, 202513 minEp. 3063

3062: How to Live Life with No Regrets by FIRECracker of Millennial-Revolution on Financial Independence

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3062: FIRECracker reflects on a potential health scare and shares the top regrets of the dying, reminding us that wealth, status, and possessions are meaningless if they come at the cost of authentic living. True freedom comes from financial independence, but even more so from the courage to pursue dreams, prioritize relationships, and embra...

Mar 05, 202512 minEp. 3062

3061: 7 Expenses To Never Put On A Credit Card by Michelle Schroeder-Gardner of Making Sense of Cents

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3061: Michelle Schroeder-Gardner highlights seven common purchases, including furniture, weddings, medical bills, and vacations, that should never be charged unless you can pay them off in full immediately. Avoiding these costly mistakes can help you stay in control of your finances and prevent unnecessary stress. Read along with the origina...

Mar 04, 202510 minEp. 3061

3060: Intentional Spending - 3 Simple Questions That Will Upgrade Your Finances by Kalen Bruce of Freedom Sprout

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3060: Tracking every purchase and asking three simple questions can revolutionize your spending habits. Kalen Bruce highlights the power of intentionality in finances, encouraging mindfulness about whether a purchase is necessary, if there’s a more cost-effective way to buy it, and if quality should be prioritized. By applying this approach ...

Mar 03, 20259 minEp. 3060

3059: Dear Dad Why Did You Let Debt Kill You by Jeff Rose of Good Financial Cents on Money Anxiety

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3059: Jeff Rose reflects on his father's financial struggles, revealing how stress from debt contributed to his declining well-being and ultimate passing. By recognizing warning signs like constant financial anxiety, relying on credit to pay off credit, and frequently borrowing money, we can step in to help loved ones break the cycle before ...

Mar 02, 202510 minEp. 3059

3058: Raising Consumer Conscious Teenagers in an Age of Excess by Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3058: Joshua Becker explores practical ways to guide young people in resisting materialism, understanding advertising influence, and prioritizing experiences over possessions. By fostering mindful consumption habits early, parents can empower teens to make thoughtful financial choices that align with their values. Read along with the origina...

Mar 02, 202511 minEp. 3058

3057: 5 Reasons to Choose a 15-Year Mortgage by Andy Hill of Marriage Kids and Money

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3057: Andy Hill shares how this decision helped his family stay disciplined, build wealth faster, and eliminate debt years ahead of schedule. If paying off your mortgage early aligns with your goals, his insights might just inspire you to rethink your home loan strategy. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://marriagekidsandmo...

Mar 01, 202510 minEp. 3057

3056: Save $50 a Day & Feel No Pain? Hmm I Dunno About That by J. Money of Budgets Are Sexy

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3056: J. Money explores whether saving $50 a day is realistic and how to make it painless. By identifying small spending leaks, making simple swaps, and staying intentional with money, you can build a solid financial cushion without feeling deprived. These practical tips prove that smart saving is more about mindset than sacrifice. Read alon...

Feb 28, 202511 minEp. 3056

3055: Everyone Else Could Be Wrong by Steven Keys of Trip Of A Lifestyle on Intentional Living

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3055: Steven Keys challenges conventional wisdom, highlighting how herd mentality can lead to poor choices in finance, lifestyle, and beyond. By seeking out unconventional perspectives, prioritizing logic, and boldly carving your own path, you can break free from societal norms and create a life that truly fits you. Read along with the origi...

Feb 27, 202511 minEp. 3055

3054: The More Runway You Have, The Safer You are by Barney of The Escape Artist on Financial Independence

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3054: Barney of TheEscapeArtist.me explains how to calculate your runway, why an emergency fund is essential, and how financial independence shifts your options and decision-making. More runway means more freedom, but the benefits plateau after a certain point, making it crucial to define what "enough" means for you. Read along with the orig...

Feb 26, 202511 minEp. 3054

3053: The Power of an Online Only Savings Account by Tiffany Aliche of The Budgetnista

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3053: Traditional savings accounts might be holding you back. Tiffany "The Budgetnista" Aliche highlights the power of online-only savings accounts, explaining how they offer higher interest rates, fewer fees, and better financial discipline by keeping your savings out of easy reach. Learn how to set one up and maximize your money with smart...

Feb 25, 20259 minEp. 3053

3052: [Part 2] Stocks - Part XIX: How to Think about Money by JL Collins

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3052: JL Collins breaks down how to shift your mindset from short-term price fluctuations to long-term ownership, using VTSAX as a prime example of investing in the entire U.S. economy. Learn why patience, resilience, and a buy-and-hold strategy can lead to financial security over time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://j...

Feb 24, 202510 minEp. 3052

3051: [Part 1] Stocks - Part XIX: How to Think about Money by JL Collins

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3051: JL Collins breaks down the mindset shift needed to stop thinking about what money can buy and start focusing on what it can earn. By understanding opportunity cost and the power of compounding, you can make choices that lead to long-term prosperity rather than fleeting riches. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jlcol...

Feb 23, 202511 minEp. 3051

3050: The Reason You May Not be Getting Results and What To Do About It by Nia Shanks

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3050: Nia Shanks emphasizes the importance of finding an approach to training and eating that works for you rather than forcing a method that causes stress or doesn’t align with your preferences. Whether it’s strength training, intermittent fasting, or another nutrition plan, success comes from experimentation and personalization, not rigid ...

Feb 23, 202511 minEp. 3050

3049: Changing Jobs for More Money - Is it Worth It by Philip Taylor of PT Money

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3049: Changing jobs for a higher salary can be tempting, but Philip Taylor argues that money alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Job satisfaction, stability, and lifestyle impact are key considerations, as frequent job-hopping can lead to long-term dissatisfaction. While salary surveys can help determine fair pay, sometimes staying put a...

Feb 22, 202510 minEp. 3049

3048: Your Budget is Like a Leaking Ship by Jacob Lund Fisker of Early Retirement Extreme

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3048: Jacob Lund Fisker dissects common spending habits, from frequent furniture replacements to excessive transportation costs, revealing how consumerism encourages unnecessary expenses that make financial freedom seem out of reach. By plugging these financial leaks, it's possible to live comfortably on far less while enjoying a higher qual...

Feb 21, 202512 minEp. 3048

3047: Lessons from Millionaires by ESI of ESI Money on Early Retirement

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3047: Having interviewed over 40 everyday millionaires, ESI of ESIMoney.com uncovers the key habits that lead to wealth. High income, disciplined saving, and early, consistent investing stand out as the core principles that set millionaires apart. Avoiding financial pitfalls and making smart money moves further accelerate their journey provi...

Feb 20, 202513 minEp. 3047

3046: Before You Retire - Powerful Lessons from Mini Retirement by Chris of Keep Thrifty

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3046: Chris of KeepThrifty.com shares key lessons from his own experience, emphasizing the importance of retiring to something rather than just from something, preparing mentally as well as financially, and structuring free time to create a fulfilling life. These insights can help you make the most of your retirement, whether it’s temporary ...

Feb 19, 202511 minEp. 3046

3045: The Unexpected Benefit of Earning Less Money Each Year by Kevin of Financial Panther

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3045: Earning less money each year might seem like a setback, but it can actually be a hidden advantage. By gradually reducing income, financial habits shift towards frugality, creativity, and long-term sustainability, making financial independence more achievable. This perspective challenges the traditional belief that constant income growt...

Feb 18, 202510 minEp. 3045

3044: The Delay of Gratification - Reward and Regret by Amberly Grant with Fiology on Financial Independence

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3044: Amberly Grant explores the balance between smart financial choices and living a fulfilling life, emphasizing that financial independence should enable joy, not postpone it indefinitely. She shares her own journey, illustrating how embracing adventure and relationships can coexist with responsible planning for the future. Read along wit...

Feb 17, 202512 minEp. 3044

3043: Why I Feel Like A Baller When I Shop At The Dollar Store by Lisa Harrison of Mad Money Monster

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3043: Lisa Harrison shares how embracing the dollar store has helped her save money on everyday essentials without compromising on value. Her story is a reminder that financial savviness isn’t about where you shop, but how wisely you spend, regardless of what others might think. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://madmoneym...

Feb 16, 202510 minEp. 3043

3042: My Reality or Yours by Steve Pavlina on How to Examine Your Beliefs

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3042: How do we know if our reality is the true one? Steve Pavlina explores the nature of subjective and objective reality, challenging us to question our perceptions and consider alternative viewpoints. By examining how beliefs shape our experiences, he invites us to expand our awareness and take greater control over our personal growth. Re...

Feb 16, 202511 minEp. 3042

3041: Sun Tzu’s Art of War Applied to Your Battle Against Debt by Simon Zhen with Financial Samurai

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3041: Simon Zhen applies Sun Tzu’s Art of War to the fight for financial independence, offering timeless wisdom on how to aggressively eliminate debt and defend yourself against its return. From avoiding prolonged struggles with interest to maintaining a strong offense, these war tactics provide a blueprint for achieving lasting financial fr...

Feb 15, 202513 minEp. 3041

3040: FIRE Is For Wimps by A Purple Life on Financial Independence

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3040: A Purple Life argues that pursuing financial independence is the wimpy way out, allowing people to build an impenetrable safety net before taking any leaps. By carefully structuring each transition from remote work to downsizing to local nomadism the journey to early retirement becomes a series of calculated baby steps rather than a da...

Feb 14, 202512 minEp. 3040