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

3009: When to Prepay Your Mortgage Instead of Investing by Chris of Keep Thrifty on Financial Risk Tolerance

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 3009: Chris of KeepThrifty.com explores the trade-offs between prepaying your mortgage and investing, emphasizing the role of risk tolerance and personal preferences. While investing often yields higher returns, the guaranteed stability of prepayments can bring peace of mind, especially for those who value financial certainty over potential ...

Jan 18, 202512 minEp. 3009

3008: Should I Have Closed My Credit Cards by Sam of Financial Samurai on Financial Wellness

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 3008: Sam from Financial Samurai explores the consequences of closing credit cards, sharing personal insights and practical advice to safeguard your credit score and financial health. By understanding key factors like credit history, credit line usage, and account management, you can make informed decisions about whether to keep or close you...

Jan 17, 20259 minEp. 3008

3007: What is a Family Trust and Should You Set One Up by Jeff Rose of Good Financial Cents on Estate Planning

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 3007: Explore the advantages of setting up a family trust to secure your assets, streamline estate planning, and ensure your legacy is protected. This guide highlights the steps, benefits, and key considerations to help you decide if a family trust aligns with your financial goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.go...

Jan 16, 202510 minEp. 3007

3006: Invest Overview - Fueling Your Net Worth by ESI Money on How to Build Wealth Through Investing

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 3006: ESI from ESIMoney.com breaks down the transformative power of investing, the third step in the "Earn, Save, Invest" wealth-building strategy. By focusing on amount, time, and return, investments compound to multiply your net worth over time. With insights into index funds, real estate, and more, this guide simplifies how to grow wealth...

Jan 15, 202510 minEp. 3006

3005: Budget Busters How to Plan for Unexpected Expenses by Chelsea of Smart Money Mamas

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 3005: Chelsea from SmartMoneyMamas.com explains the practical steps to safeguard your budget from unexpected expenses by dividing them into predictable and unpredictable categories. She highlights the importance of building annual budgets, creating sinking funds, and prioritizing an emergency fund to transform financial stress into manageabl...

Jan 14, 202512 minEp. 3005

3004: Risk Gets the Reward by Chris Reining on Investment Returns and Increasing Market Volatility

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 3004: Chris Reining's exploration of risk and reward illustrates how calculated risk-taking, as seen in Arnold Schwarzenegger's multifaceted career and real estate investments, paves the way for growth and success. He delves into tailoring investment strategies to personal risk tolerance, emphasizing the balance between safety and potential ...

Jan 13, 202510 minEp. 3004

3003: How to Find a Good Tax Preparer by Kelley Long of Financial Finesse on Money Advice

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 3003: Kelley Long shares practical advice for navigating the complexities of hiring a tax professional. Whether you're a self-employed entrepreneur or have straightforward tax needs, she clarifies the roles of tax preparers, EAs, and CPAs, and offers actionable tips to ensure you find the right expert to save time, money, and stress. Read al...

Jan 12, 202510 minEp. 3003

3002: The Smart Way to Stick to Habits by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Overcoming Negative Self-Talk

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 3002: Leo Babauta outlines a practical system to make habits stick by addressing common obstacles like loss of enthusiasm, distractions, and negative self-talk. By starting small, creating strong accountability, and setting up reminders, you can effectively overcome these challenges and turn new behaviors into lasting habits. Read along with...

Jan 12, 202512 minEp. 3002

3001: Instant Gratification Wish List: Becoming a Patient Spender by Kumiko Love 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 3001: Kumiko Love explores the pervasive culture of instant gratification and its impact on finances. She offers practical tools like Shopping Lists, Wait Lists, and Instant Gratification Wish Lists to help you cultivate patience and make thoughtful spending decisions. By focusing on delayed gratification, you can achieve financial goals whi...

Jan 11, 202513 minEp. 3001

3000: 7 Rules on How to Grow Wealth: Growing Wealth Slow, but Sustainable by The Editors of Get Rich Slowly

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 3000: In "7 Rules for Growing Slow (But Sustainable) Wealth," the editors of GetRichSlowly.org outline a clear framework for building lasting financial security. From prioritizing net income over gross, to diversifying income streams and leveraging investments strategically, these principles emphasize steady, long-term growth. The goal is no...

Jan 10, 202512 minEp. 3000

2999: When It Makes Sense to Refinance Your Mortgage (And When It Doesn’t) 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 2999: Discover when refinancing your mortgage could be a smart financial move and when it might not be worth the effort. This guide demystifies key factors like interest rates, loan terms, and closing costs to help you make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://marriage...

Jan 09, 202512 minEp. 2999

2998: The “Minus Your Age” Rule of Thumb for Asset Allocation by Craig Stephens of Retire Before Dad

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 2998: Craig Stephens explores various "minus your age" rules for determining a balanced stock-to-bond portfolio allocation. By adjusting the formula constants (100, 120, 130, or up to 140), investors can align their strategy with personal risk tolerance and investment horizons. With a flexible and data-backed approach, Stephens emphasizes th...

Jan 08, 202512 minEp. 2998

2997: How Do You Balance Productivity and Creativity? by Tyler Tervooren of Riskology on Choosing Happiness

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 2997: Tyler Tervooren explores the hidden stress that comes with focusing on productivity and hourly earnings, revealing how it can unintentionally bleed into every aspect of life, even leisure. He emphasizes the need to prioritize creative downtime and personal moments to truly enhance productivity and happiness, suggesting strategies to ba...

Jan 07, 202510 minEp. 2997

2996: [Part 2] Passive Income and Other Money Myths by Leif Dahleen of Physician on Fire on Intentional Spending

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 2996: Dr. Leif Dahleen debunks common financial misconceptions like "free" travel with credit card points, the necessity of budgeting, and the idea that everyone needs a side hustle. He explains how credit card rewards aren’t truly free and challenges the notion that earning more is always better than spending less, especially when taxes are...

Jan 06, 202512 minEp. 2996

2995: [Part 1] Passive Income and Other Money Myths by Leif Dahleen of Physician on Fire on Side Hustles

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 2995: Dr. Leif Dahleen challenges the concept of passive income, illustrating how many success stories labeled as "passive" are far from it. From real estate to blogging, he highlights the substantial effort often hidden behind these narratives, debunking myths around dividend investing, side hustles, and more. This eye-opening critique urge...

Jan 05, 202512 minEp. 2995

2994: How To Declutter Without Feeling Wasteful: Is Decluttering a Waste of Money? By Antonia 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 2994: Antonia Collins explores the emotional and practical challenges of decluttering, particularly the guilt of wastefulness. She offers actionable strategies like donating, selling, and changing your mindset to make decluttering a positive and liberating experience. This article inspires readers to embrace simplicity while letting go of re...

Jan 05, 202511 minEp. 2994

2993: 8 Judgment-Free Ways to Change Your Shopping Habits by Courtney Carver of Be More With Less

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 2993: Courtney Carver offers a compassionate guide to breaking free from impulsive shopping patterns. She shares eight practical, judgment-free strategies to align your spending with your values, simplify your life, and foster intentional habits that nurture both your wallet and your well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: ...

Jan 04, 202512 minEp. 2993

2992: Sensationalizing Risk by Dave of Accidental Fire on A Rational Approach to 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 2992: Dave of AccidentalFIRE.com explores how sensationalized media and misplaced fears can lead to poor decision-making, particularly regarding child safety and financial risks. By comparing perceived versus actual threats, he emphasizes the importance of focusing on long-term risks and cultivating a rational approach to financial independe...

Jan 03, 202511 minEp. 2992

2991: The Tale of Bad Car Bill by Mr. 1500 of 1500 Days on Frugality and Resisting Lifestyle Inflation

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 2991: Mr. 1500's story of "Bad Car Bill" highlights the power of frugality and resisting lifestyle inflation. Bill’s modest choices driving a clunker, packing lunches, and avoiding flashy expenses allowed him to quietly accumulate wealth while peers squandered theirs. This thought-provoking tale challenges us to reconsider the allure of mate...

Jan 02, 20259 minEp. 2991

2990: Reject The Everyone Has Debt Mentality by Paula Pant of Afford Anything on Long-Term Financial Health

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 2990: Paula Pant challenges the "everyone has debt" mentality, urging readers to focus on whether debt is beneficial rather than normal. By highlighting the opportunity cost of debt and the importance of intentional financial choices, she advocates rejecting societal norms in favor of long-term financial health. Read along with the original ...

Jan 01, 202510 minEp. 2990

2989: How to Pay Off Your Debt: The Debt Snowball Vs. The Debt Avalanche by Kalen Bruce of Money Mini Blog

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 2989: Kalen Bruce explores two powerful strategies for paying off debt - the debt snowball and the debt avalanche. By comparing their benefits and drawbacks, this article empowers you to choose the method that aligns with your financial goals and motivation style, whether you crave small wins or want to minimize interest payments. Read along...

Dec 31, 202410 minEp. 2989

2988: Don't Let Comparisons Derail Your FIRE Journey 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 2988: FIRECracker of Millennial-Revolution.com shares how comparisons can derail your journey to financial independence. Instead of measuring yourself against others, focus on your own progress and celebrate each milestone. The FIRE journey is about growth, not a race to the finish line, and cherishing small victories can keep you motivated ...

Dec 30, 202412 minEp. 2988

2987: If More People Did Money Like They Play Monopoly, They’d Be A Lot Better Off by Barney of The Escape Artist

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 2987: Barney from TheEscapeArtist.me draws an insightful parallel between winning at Monopoly and managing personal finances effectively. By focusing on strategic investments, avoiding distractions, and playing the long game, individuals can set themselves up for financial success. The message is clear: adopting a Monopoly mindset buying ass...

Dec 29, 202411 minEp. 2987

2986: Maternity Medical Care: How Much Does It Cost to Have a Baby by Dr. Ashley Burkman with Smart Money Mamas

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 2986: Dr. Ashley Burkman from Smart Money Mamas.com delves into the often-overlooked expenses associated with childbirth, offering valuable insights for expectant parents. From understanding insurance deductibles to choosing between hospitals, birthing centers, and home births, she guides couples in making informed decisions to manage matern...

Dec 29, 202410 minEp. 2986

2985: So You Want To Be A Millionaire by Fritz Gilbert of The Retirement Manifesto on Financial Freedom

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 2985: Fritz Gilbert explores how small financial decisions can significantly impact long-term wealth. By harnessing the power of compound interest, even modest savings can snowball into substantial retirement funds. Whether you're just starting your career or nearing mid-life, strategic saving can transform your financial future and ultimate...

Dec 28, 202411 minEp. 2985

2984: The Autopilot Guide to Credit Cards by Steven Keys of Trip Of A Lifestyle on Building 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 2984: Steven Keys simplifies the complex world of credit cards, offering an easy, stress-free strategy to maximize rewards and boost credit scores. By paying balances in full each month and choosing no-fee, cash-back cards, you can profit from rewards programs without falling into debt traps. Read along with the original article(s) here: htt...

Dec 27, 202411 minEp. 2984

2983: Why I Own 100% US Stocks by A Purple Life on Financial Planning and Money Advice

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 2983: A Purple Life shares the rationale behind a 100% US stocks portfolio, emphasizing simplicity, higher returns over time, and the built-in international exposure of US index funds. By maintaining a flexible, minimalist lifestyle and an adaptive mindset, the author demonstrates how careful financial planning can align with personal values...

Dec 26, 202411 minEp. 2983

2982: 7 Lame Reasons People Don't Save for Retirement by Philip Taylor of PT Money on Financial Future

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 2982: Saving for retirement is a struggle for many, but Philip Taylor dismantles seven common excuses from "it's selfish" to "it's too late" that hold people back from securing their financial future. By addressing misconceptions and providing actionable solutions, Taylor empowers readers to take the first step toward financial independence,...

Dec 25, 20249 minEp. 2982

2981: What It Means To Be A Passive Investor by Kiersten Saunders of Rich And Regular on Investment Advice

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 2981: Kiersten Saunders shares her perspective on embracing passive investing as a deliberate choice rooted in simplicity, lower costs, and long-term growth. By prioritizing buy-and-hold strategies for real estate and index funds for stocks, she highlights the benefits of transparency, reduced tax burdens, and financial freedom. Her reflecti...

Dec 24, 202410 minEp. 2981

2980: How To Execute A Frugal Reboot When Old Spending Habits Appear 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 2980: Lisa Harrison outlines a practical strategy for reclaiming financial discipline when old spending habits resurface. Through goal prioritization, progress tracking, budget adjustments, and family meetings, her approach empowers individuals and families to regain control, sustain frugality, and achieve long-term financial goals without f...

Dec 23, 202410 minEp. 2980