Optimal Finance Daily - Financial Independence and Money Advice
Business & Economics Podcasts
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...
Location:
United States
Description:
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...
Twitter:
@OLDPodcast
Language:
English
Contact:
908-941-2454
Website:
https://oldpodcast.com/
Episodes
3287: Should You Rely On Credit Cards For Your Emergency Fund? By Michelle Schroeder-Gardner
9/18/2025
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 3287: Michelle Schroeder-Gardner explains why relying solely on credit cards for emergencies can be a risky financial strategy. She highlights how an emergency savings fund provides security, reduces stress, and protects against debt traps, offering peace of mind no matter what life throws your way. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.makingsenseofcents.com/2015/09/credit-cards-for-your-emergency-savings-fund-amount.html Quotes to ponder: "Even if you can only manage $500 to $1,000 right now, that is better than nothing." "My problem with using credit cards as your sole source for an emergency fund is that it may lead to more debt in some situations." "You never know if something may come up, how big the expense may be, and whether or not you will have enough credit to fund the expense." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:14
3286: I Have $1 Million and I Still Can’t Afford to Retire! by Kathleen Coxwell of New Retirement
9/17/2025
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 3286: Kathleen Coxwell explores why even millionaires struggle with retirement security, revealing that a seven-figure nest egg often isn’t enough to sustain long-term quality of life. She outlines practical strategies, like extending work years, budgeting smarter, leveraging home equity, and optimizing income, that apply to both wealthy and average savers facing the same retirement anxieties. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/i-have-1-million-and-i-still-cant-afford-to-retire/ Quotes to ponder: “One million dollars today is literally not what it used to be.” “Reducing your future spending can dramatically improve your financial security in retirement.” Episode references: The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/01/13/the-shockingly-simple-math-behind-early-retirement/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:52
3285: Life Insurance for Young Adults by Jeff Rose of Good Financial Cents on Important Financial Decisions
9/16/2025
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 3285: Jeff Rose outlines why life insurance can be a smart move for young adults, even those without dependents. With low premiums and future-proofing benefits, early coverage can protect your loved ones from financial burdens and lock in cheaper rates before age or health changes make it more costly. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.goodfinancialcents.com/life-insurance-for-young-adults/ Quotes to ponder: "Life insurance is very inexpensive, and even if you took out a small $50,000 to $100,000 policy, you would be paying less than 2 value meals at McDonald’s a month for coverage." "If you want to save money on your monthly premiums, spend a couple months improving your health." "The younger you are, the lower your costs are going to be in paying for your life insurance." Episode references: Payable on Death (POD) Account Explanation: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/payableondeath.asp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:15
3284: When You Feel Like You Will Never Get Out of Debt: Things to Consider by Jackie Beck
9/15/2025
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 3284: Jackie Beck reminds us that the feeling of “I’ll never get out of debt” is normal at different stages of the journey, but it doesn’t mean freedom is out of reach. By narrowing your focus to the very next step, celebrating progress, and refusing to get stuck on the big picture, you can steadily build momentum and eventually cross the finish line debt-free. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jackiebeck.com/im-never-gonna-get-this-paid-off/ Quotes to ponder: "Chances are a solid plan is exactly what you need to turn that feeling of despair into success." "Sometimes the best thing you can do when paying off debt is to focus on something other than your debt." "Don’t look at the big picture, unless you’re looking back at how far you’ve come." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:11
3283: The Oregon Trail Guide to Personal Finance: What Happens Next? by Jana with Budgets Are Sexy
9/14/2025
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 3283: Jana draws parallels between The Oregon Trail and real-life money management, showing how every choice with our finances impacts long-term outcomes. By blending nostalgia with practical advice, she highlights the importance of preparation, balance, and smart decision-making to successfully reach financial goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.budgetsaresexy.com/oregon-trail-guide-to-personal-finance-what-happens-next/ Quotes to ponder: "You could spend $200 for 200 pounds of food at Matt’s General Store, or you could buy fewer pounds and stretch your resources further." "One wrong move could mean death, or at least a very unpleasant journey." "In the end, the goal was to survive long enough to make it to Oregon, hopefully with your whole family intact." Episode references: The Oregon Trail Game Online: https://classicreload.com/oregon-trail.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:45
3282: How to Cultivate Unconditional Confidence by Cylon George of Spiritual Living For Busy People
9/14/2025
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 3282: Cylon George shows that lasting confidence comes from embracing your true self rather than chasing external approval. By nurturing unconditional confidence, you can free yourself from self-doubt, trust your inner wisdom, and live with greater authenticity and courage. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.spirituallivingforbusypeople.com/cultivate-unconditional-confidence Quotes to ponder: "Unconditional confidence is not based on achievement, appearance, or approval from others." "True confidence arises when we stop trying to be something we are not and start trusting who we already are." "When you no longer depend on external validation, you become free to express yourself authentically." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:08:48
3281: Do You Have These Essential Financial Protections in Place? by Erik Carter of Financial Finesse
9/13/2025
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 3281: Erik Carter highlights the importance of protecting your finances with the right safeguards before focusing on long-term goals. From health and disability insurance to emergency savings, estate planning, and life coverage, he explains how these essential protections can prevent devastating setbacks and ensure peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2012/12/20/do-you-have-these-basic-financial-protections-in-place/ Quotes to ponder: "Medical bills are also one of the most common debts we see and the leading cause of bankruptcy." "The chances of you becoming disabled is much greater than dying before you retire and the financial impact is higher." "You never know when you’ll need these protections in place and there’s no 'good time' to get them done so do it now." Episode references: Term4Sale: https://www.term4sale.com/ Affordable Care Act: https://www.healthcare.gov/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:29
3280: [Part 2] Why You Should Invest in Real Estate by ESI on Financial Independence Investing Plans
9/12/2025
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 3280: ESI shares how smart real estate investments funded his early retirement, showing how cash purchases, renovations, and professional management turned properties into high-yield, low-effort income sources. He outlines the key advantages of real estate, from strong returns and reliable retirement income to creativity and flexibility, while stressing the importance of focusing on cash flow over appreciation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://esimoney.com/why-you-should-invest-in-real-estate/ Quotes to ponder: "I net approximately 10% a year and my places have appreciated 45% to boot." "I spend about two hours a month managing them, and they account for 70% of my retirement income." "The worst thing I did: didn’t buy enough. I would have had twice the number of places and currently be making a fortune." Episode references: The Book on Rental Property Investing: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Rental-Property-Investing-Passive/dp/099071179X The ABCs of Real Estate Investing: https://www.amazon.com/ABCs-Real-Estate-Investing-Investors/dp/1937832031 How to Invest in Real Estate: https://www.amazon.com/How-Invest-Real-Estate-Beginners/dp/1947200984 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:45
3279: [Part 1] Why You Should Invest in Real Estate by ESI on Investment Advice for Retiring Early
9/11/2025
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 3279: ESI shares how real estate investing transformed his financial life, from acquiring multiple rental units to retiring at 52 without touching his savings. While acknowledging the hassles of property management, he explains how the rewards, steady income, appreciation, and financial independence, can far outweigh the drawbacks for those willing to explore the opportunity. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://esimoney.com/why-you-should-invest-in-real-estate/ Quotes to ponder: “Hahahahaha! I hear you, real estate is not for everyone. On the plus side, Real Estate was the main reason I retired at 52.” “I think everyone needs to at least know enough about real estate to consider it as an investment option.” “I wasted all that time being limited by my own beliefs/fears when I could have been buying a place each year and building up a fortune.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:22
3278: 5 Personal Finance Myths That Could Ruin Your Retirement by Kalen Bruce of Money Mini Blog
9/10/2025
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 3278: Kalen Bruce unpacks five damaging money myths that sabotage retirement plans, like believing a high income ensures future savings or that investing is only for finance experts. He urges readers to rethink their strategy by starting small, learning the basics of investing, and distinguishing between good and bad debt for a more secure financial future. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://moneyminiblog.com/investing/personal-finance-retirement-myths/ Quotes to ponder: "Many people take no care of their money till they come nearly to the end of it." "To guarantee a comfortable retirement, get into a saving mindset starting with your mid-20s, even if that means setting aside just $100 every month." "You don’t need a degree in finance to be successful." Episode references: Camp FI: https://www.campfi.org 4% Rule (Investopedia explanation): https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/four-percent-rule.asp The Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances: https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/scfindex.htm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:00
3277: How to Get Your Spouse on Board with Early Retirement by Jill with Mad Fientist on Financial Independence
9/9/2025
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 3277: Jill reflects on the emotional and relational shifts that occur when one partner retires early while the other continues working. She shares candid lessons about identity, expectations, and creating new rhythms together, offering perspective for couples navigating different paths to financial independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.madfientist.com/spouse-early-retirement/ Quotes to ponder: "Early retirement is amazing, but it does introduce some unique challenges if your spouse is still working." "When your identity and self-worth have been tied to your job for so long, it can be hard to adjust when that job suddenly disappears." "Just because you’re not working doesn’t mean you can’t be productive or contribute in meaningful ways." Episode references: The 4-Hour Workweek: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357 Early Retirement Extreme: https://www.amazon.com/Early-Retirement-Extreme-Philosophical-Practical/dp/145360121X Your Money or Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Money-Life-Transforming-Relationship/dp/0143115766 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:50
3276: How to Find a Contractor: It’s Not Just About Price by J.D. Roth of Get Rich Slowly on Frugality and Home Ownership
9/8/2025
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 3276: J.D. Roth emphasizes that choosing the right contractor is about much more than just price, it’s about trust, communication, and understanding your needs. Through personal stories of home repairs and remodels, he shows how asking the right questions, comparing bids, and valuing reputation can lead to better results and long-term savings. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/how-to-find-a-contractor-its-not-just-about-price/ Quotes to ponder: "Some people feel guilty asking a company for a price quote and then not using them. Don’t. That’s how it works." "The contractor I hired did not offer the lowest price, but he ran a family business like mine, was willing to answer my questions, and offered a $500 reduction if I helped on the project." "When you shop around for big-ticket items, you can save thousands of dollars." Episode references: Angi (formerly Angie's List): https://www.angi.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:20
3275: Where Do I Invest After Maxing Out Retirement Accounts? by Chris Reining on Building Wealth and Optimizing Taxes
9/7/2025
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 3275: Chris Reining explains how to strategically invest once retirement accounts are maxed out, offering practical guidance for building wealth beyond traditional tax-advantaged vehicles. He breaks down smart options for taxable investing, managing taxes, and aligning financial choices with long-term goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisreining.com/where-do-i-invest-after-maxing-out-retirement-accounts/ Quotes to ponder: "Once you’re maxing out retirement accounts, you’ve won the game. You’re ahead of 99% of people." "With a taxable account, there are no restrictions on when you can withdraw the money." "The truth is, most people are better off just sticking with index funds." Episode references: Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund (VTSAX): https://investor.vanguard.com/investment-products/mutual-funds/profile/vtsax Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:53
3274: What Financial Protections Do Stay-at-Home Parents Need? By Amanda Kruse of Women Who Money
9/7/2025
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 3274: Stay-at-home parents take on an invaluable role, but the financial risks of stepping away from a paycheck are real. Amanda Kruse highlights the protections every family should consider, from retirement savings and insurance coverage to joint ownership of assets, legal agreements, and ways to maintain income potential. Her insights offer practical steps to safeguard the long-term security of both partners and strengthen financial resilience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/financial-protections-stay-at-home-parents-need/ Quotes to ponder: "The SAH parent is a contributing member of the family and entitled to half the assets." "When the SAH parent isn’t involved in money decisions, it sets the stage for disaster." "Though not always easy or pleasant, parents should consider the worst-case scenarios and plan for them." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:16
3273: What Should My Asset Allocation Be by Wanderer of Millennial Revolution on Emotions as an Investor
9/6/2025
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 3273: Wanderer explains why asset allocation is less about chasing the “perfect” ratio and more about managing your emotions as an investor. By starting small with a 50/50 mix of equities and bonds, new investors can build confidence, ride out market crashes, and eventually shift toward more aggressive strategies without panicking at volatility. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.millennial-revolution.com/invest/what-should-my-asset-allocation-be-nervous-newbie-edition/ Quotes to ponder: "While the cold, hard math indicates the single biggest determinant of long-term financial success is your asset allocation, in practice the single biggest determinant of long-term financial success is you, the investor." "The great thing about this strategy is that you’ll only have $5000 in the markets when this happens, so you’re less likely to freak out." "The trick about investing is that there’s no real trick to it. The only thing you have to watch out for is your own fear forcing you to do the exact wrong thing at the exact wrong time." Episode references: Canadian Couch Potato: https://canadiancouchpotato.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:00
3272: [Part 2] How to Pay Off Student Loans Fast On Your Path to FIRE by Scott Rieckens of Playing With Fire
9/5/2025
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 3272: Scott Rieckens shares practical strategies for tackling student loans quickly, from setting up auto-pay and making extra payments to refinancing for a lower interest rate. He also highlights alternative approaches, such as income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness, showing that the right path depends on your financial goals and circumstances. These insights can help you accelerate debt freedom and move closer to financial independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.playingwithfire.co/blog/how-to-pay-off-student-loans-fast-fire Quotes to ponder: "Debt doesn't have to be your reality forever." "If you want to pay off your loan quickly, making extra payments is key." "Student loan refinancing is one of the best things you can do to help get you out of debt faster." Episode references: Income-Driven Repayment Plans (Federal Student Aid): https://studentaid.gov/idr Public Service Loan Forgiveness (Federal Student Aid): https://studentaid.gov/pslf The Student Loan Planner: https://www.studentloanplanner.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:08:52
3271: [Part 1] How to Pay Off Student Loans Fast On Your Path to FIRE by Scott Rieckens of Playing With Fire
9/4/2025
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 3271: Scott Rieckens breaks down the true cost of student loans and how repayment terms can dramatically impact both your debt load and your path to financial independence. By understanding interest, repayment options, and alternatives like grants or employer assistance, you’ll be better equipped to avoid unnecessary costs and stay focused on your FIRE goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.playingwithfire.co/blog/how-to-pay-off-student-loans-fast-fire Quotes to ponder: "Student loan debt shouldn't keep you from pursuing your financial independence dreams." "That $10,000 actually costs you a total of $13,322!" "Debt of any kind, including student loans, can make your path to FI excruciatingly long." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:55
3270: Taking Money For Granted: What To Do If The Money Runs Out? By Sam Dogen of Financial Samurai
9/3/2025
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 3270: Sam reflects on how easy it is to take money for granted when income feels steady and endless. He explores what to do if cash flow dries up, drawing from investments, rental income, and even taking any job if necessary, while also emphasizing the importance of perspective, gratitude, and an abundance mindset to stay financially and mentally resilient. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialsamurai.com/taking-money-for-granted/ Quotes to ponder: “It’s hard NOT to take money for granted when it’s come to you for so long.” “Working harder is a privilege, since at some point, my mental capacity will fade and I will no longer be able to communicate in a coherent manner.” “Don’t take money for granted, because it may eventually run out!” Episode references: Yakezie Personal Finance Network: https://yakezie.com Structured Notes Explained: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/structurednote.asp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:01
3269: Health Insurance - Things to Consider When Choosing Your Coverage by Andrea Joy of Saving Joyfully
9/2/2025
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 3269: Andrea Joy draws on her background in medical billing to demystify the often overwhelming process of choosing health insurance. She explains key terms like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance while offering practical tips for evaluating plan options, considering supplemental coverage, and making the most of tools like HSAs or FSAs. Her personal story and professional insights highlight why informed choices can save you from financial hardship and give you peace of mind. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://savingjoyfully.com/blog/health-insurance-things-to-consider-when-choosing-your-coverage Quotes to ponder: "Unless someone else is covering you under their insurance plan this can be a very bad decision." "You cannot predict the future and this can be a very costly mistake." "Choosing insurance coverage is never something to take lightly but it doesn’t have to confuse you every year or make you worry." Episode references: Health Savings Account (HSA) - IRS: https://www.irs.gov/publications/p969 Flexible Spending Account (FSA) - HealthCare.gov: https://www.healthcare.gov/flexible-spending-accounts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:12:09
3268: 7 Things to Know About Credit Card Default by Philip Taylor of PT Money on Credit Score Recovery
9/1/2025
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 3268: Philip Taylor explains what happens when you default on a credit card, from late fees and mounting interest to aggressive collections and damage to your credit score. He also highlights the elimination of universal default, the importance of knowing your rights when dealing with collectors, and practical steps to recover financially after a default. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ptmoney.com/credit-card-default/ Quotes to ponder: "Credit card default happens when you borrow money on your credit card and never pay it off." "Once your account goes into default your credit score is going to take a dramatic hit." "You simply have to prioritize. Four things come first: food/water, shelter, clothing, and transportation." Episode references: The Pew Charitable Trusts - Consumer Finance Research: https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/projects/consumer-finance Dave Ramsey: https://www.ramseysolutions.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:42