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
3342: When Should You Use Margin When Investing? By Shailesh Kumar with Good Financial Cents
11/5/2025
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 3342: Shailesh Kumar breaks down when margin investing makes sense, and when it absolutely doesn’t. He outlines smart, situational uses for margin loans like temporary liquidity gaps or strategic tax planning, while warning against high-risk behaviors like chasing dividends or funding lifestyle purchases with borrowed money. This piece offers a clear, practical guide for investors who want to leverage margin responsibly without falling into financial traps. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.goodfinancialcents.com/when-should-you-use-margin-when-investing/ Quotes to ponder: "Margin is debt. You borrow capital from your broker to buy more assets, in most cases stocks." "Too much debt kills, but a little debt can go a long way towards giving you financial flexibility." "Multiple levels of leverage are financial insanity and can come back to bite you much sooner than you think." Episode references: The Margin Loan: How to Make a $400,000 Impulse Purchase: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2021/01/29/margin-loan-ibkr-review/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:14
3341: My Fear of Spending is a Form of Imposter Syndrome by Kiersten Saunders of Rich and Regular
11/4/2025
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 3341: Kiersten Saunders unpacks the emotional toll of financial transition, exploring how fear of spending, even after achieving financial milestones, can mirror imposter syndrome. Through raw self-reflection and everyday moments, she reveals the deeper psychology behind money habits and how learning to trust yourself with your own success is a crucial step in financial independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://richandregular.com/my-fear-of-spending-is-a-form-of-imposter-syndrome/ Quotes to ponder: "Instead of letting my fear of spending beaucoup money take me down a path of scarcity, I am choosing to reframe my circumstances." "It’s easier to ignore short term impulses when you know there’s something greater later." Episode references: Suze Orman: https://www.suzeorman.com FinCon: https://finconexpo.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:05
3340: Sweet Talking Your Home Appraiser Pays Off by Sam of Financial Samurai on Real Estate Strategy and Home Value
11/3/2025
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 3340: Sam highlights how a thoughtful, human-centered approach can make a meaningful difference when dealing with a home appraiser during a mortgage refinance. By paying attention to small gestures, building rapport, and showing respect, he boosted his appraisal by $75,000, ultimately securing a better financial outcome. His story is a compelling reminder that while kindness isn’t a guarantee, it’s often a strategic advantage. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialsamurai.com/home-appraisal-tips/ Quotes to ponder: "The home appraiser is key to getting a mortgage to buy a property or refinancing a mortgage." “The value of one’s asset is only what someone is willing to pay for it." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:15
3337: The Lazy Person’s Guide to Money by Jessica Jokisch on Simple and Practical Personal Finance
11/1/2025
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 3337: Jessica Jokisch offers a refreshingly simple approach to managing your finances with minimal effort, showing how just 15 minutes a week can keep your money life on track. From automating bills and savings to using smart tools and outsourcing complex tasks, her lazy-but-effective system proves that financial peace doesn't require spreadsheets or stress. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.christineluken.com/the-lazy-persons-guide-to-money/ Quotes to ponder: "Use laziness in your favor to save more money!" "Money management can feel time-consuming and overwhelming. And some money gurus make it harder than it needs to be." "When I was first cleaning up my money, the key for me was building awareness." Episode references: Mint: https://mint.intuit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:15
3336: 6 Reusable Products That Save Me Money by Kumiko of The Budget Mom on Frugal Living and Sustainability
10/31/2025
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 3336: Kumiko from The Budget Mom shares six simple, sustainable swaps that save money and reduce waste, from ditching disposable coffee filters to upgrading everyday items like paper towels and plastic bags. Her practical approach proves that small, intentional changes can add up to big savings without sacrificing convenience or comfort. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.thebudgetmom.com/6-reusable-products-that-save-me-money/ Quotes to ponder: "Some stores will charge you for grocery bags, so bringing your own could help you avoid this cost." "Less drying time equals more money saved on my utility bill." "I no longer buy plastic water bottles. Instead, I went online and bought a Brita Pitcher for less than $28." Episode references: Brita Pitcher: https://www.brita.com/water-pitchers/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:16
3335: A Recipe for Financial Success: It’s as Easy as Pumpkin Pie by Kathleen Coxwell of New Retirement
10/30/2025
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 3335: Kathleen Coxwell uses the humble pumpkin pie as a brilliant metaphor to demystify financial planning, showing that lasting financial success doesn't require complexity, just the right ingredients and thoughtful preparation. With relatable analogies and practical tips, she emphasizes budgeting, investing, managing debt, and aligning money with your values to create a future that’s both secure and meaningful. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/recipe-for-financial-success/ Quotes to ponder: "Your financial goals don’t have to look like anyone else’s, the important part is having a goal and a goal that makes you happy." "Money can buy happiness, especially when you spend to accomplish what is important to you." "For financial success, you will want to have back up plans in place for the things that are likely to go wrong." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:40
3334: How to Speed Up Debt Repayment With One Simple Trick by Jackie Beck on Smart Debt Management
10/29/2025
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 3334: Jackie Beck shares a powerful mindset shift that can accelerate your debt repayment: treat everything as negotiable. By questioning every expense and experimenting with voluntary frugality, you’ll not only trim costs but also gain freedom and control over your financial life without feeling deprived. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jackiebeck.com/debt-repayment-speed-up/ Quotes to ponder: "Every little bit helps." "When you look for things to change about your lifestyle, start with the idea that literally everything is up for grabs." “Make a list of the things you enjoy or use on a regular basis that you spend money on.” Episode references: The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:47
3333: What Happens if I Die Without Creating a Will by Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock of Women Who Money
10/28/2025
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 3333: Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock break down what really happens if you die without a will, highlighting how state laws, not your loved ones, could dictate who inherits your assets. From risking your partner being excluded to losing control over your children’s guardianship, they explain why creating and updating a will is essential for protecting your legacy and easing the burden on those you leave behind. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/die-without-creating-will/ Quotes to ponder: "A will is an essential part of building a solid financial house and you'll likely need one to protect your assets and your loved ones." "When in doubt, seek legal advice to make sure your will is valid and you're protecting your heirs." "Having all your stuff organized is going to be a huge help to your loved ones, who will likely need to figure this stuff out during a very emotional time." Episode references: RocketLawyer: https://www.rocketlawyer.com Trust & Will: https://trustandwill.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:30
3332: Women, Insecurity and Money: Overcoming the Confidence Gap by Kristin Wong with Get Rich Slowly
10/27/2025
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 3332: Kristin Wong explores how insecurity and societal expectations can limit women's financial growth and confidence, especially in negotiating and investing. Drawing from research and personal experience, she emphasizes the transformative power of financial knowledge, self-advocacy, and challenging gender norms to build lasting wealth and independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/women-insecurity-and-money-overcoming-the-confidence-gap/ Quotes to ponder: "The problem with the world is that the intelligent people are full of doubts, while the stupid ones are full of confidence." "I had a high tolerance for low pay, and it didn't do me any favors." Episode references: Secrets of Six-Figure Women: https://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Six-Figure-Women-Strategies-Earning/dp/0060933461 First Round 10 Year Project: https://10years.firstround.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:53
3331: Buy Your Freedom; Rent the Rest by FIRECracker with JLCollinsNH on Smart Choices for a Free Life
10/26/2025
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 3331: FIRECracker challenges the conventional wisdom that owning is always better than renting by sharing a personal story of how car-sharing saved thousands and reduced stress after a nasty accident with a white van. With sharp humor and financial insight, she makes a compelling case that renting both cars and homes can lead to greater freedom, fewer surprises, and accelerated wealth building, especially in high-cost cities. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jlcollinsnh.com/2016/10/21/buy-your-freedom-rent-the-rest/ Quotes to ponder: "Renting lets you get ahead, because you don’t need to take the financial risk to maintain a physical asset." "The costs of owning are WAY higher than people think, and the worst part of these expenses are they are often unexpected." "Stress free and predictable. That’s the key to freedom." Episode references: Enterprise CarShare: https://www.enterprisecarshare.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:14
3330: The Joy of Open Space by Rose Lounsbury on Finding Peace in Less
10/26/2025
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 3330: Rose Lounsbury explores how the presence of open space, not exotic vacations or minimalist fantasies, brings real peace to our everyday lives. Through her journey from insomnia and stress to clarity and calm, she reveals how decluttering our surroundings can unlock a deeper sense of freedom, presence, and restfulness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://roselounsbury.com/joy-of-open-space/ Quotes to ponder: “There is something in all of us that attracts us to open spaces.” “Imagine yourself in your ideal environment. Got an image? Good. Now, create it.” “Vacation is not just a break from our daily routines, it is often a break from the overwhelming stress of our stuff.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:10
3329: How Acne Made Me More Frugal by Jess Chua with Budgets Are Sexy on Lessons in Simplicity and Self-Care
10/25/2025
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 3329: Jess Chua’s unexpected battle with adult acne became a surprising teacher in frugality and intentional living. Her journey away from expensive, overhyped skincare routines toward minimalist, research-backed self-care reveals how challenges can prompt deeper awareness around consumerism, budgeting, and self-trust. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://budgetsaresexy.com/how-acne-made-me-more-frugal/ Quotes to ponder: "Sometimes, you don’t get what you pay for." "The concept of 'less is more' frees you up to focus on the things that matter even more." "When it came to potential purchases, I would keep asking myself: 'Is this something I really need?'" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:28
3328: A Simple Estate Planning Checklist For a Challenging Topic by Scott Spann with Financial Finesse
10/24/2025
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 3328: Scott Spann outlines a straightforward estate planning checklist that empowers you to make proactive decisions, no matter your age, income, or family status. From organizing documents and setting clear goals to naming beneficiaries and creating essential legal directives, this guide helps ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are spared unnecessary stress during difficult times. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2013/06/17/a-simple-estate-planning-checklist-for-a-challenging-topic/ Quotes to ponder: "Discussing your intentions in advance can help avoid family conflicts and also minimize the potential for any confusion or questions regarding your true intentions." "If you have a plan in place but nobody is aware of it, then your wishes may be ignored or there may be significant delays in figuring out your desires." "Life will undoubtedly throw a curve ball or two our way so it’s essential to review and adapt our plans as necessary." Episode references: Life Happens: https://lifehappens.org/ LegalZoom: https://www.legalzoom.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:25
3327: [Part 2] Your Aging Car: Repair or Replace? By Philip Taylor of PT Money on Making Smart Car Decisions
10/23/2025
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 3327: Philip Taylor outlines smart strategies to avoid the car loan debt trap, including paying cash for your next vehicle, refinancing through local credit unions, and leveraging side income to accelerate debt payoff. He emphasizes the long-term financial gains of keeping your car longer, selling unused items, and using high-yield savings accounts to prepare for future purchases. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ptmoney.com/repair-or-replace-car/ Quotes to ponder: "A car is an asset, but unlike a home which tends to increase in value, a car loses value the minute you drive it off the lot!" "If you’re in a situation where you still owe money on your car, see if you can refinance the debt through a local bank or credit union." "You know you’ll need to replace your vehicle eventually, so the wise choice is to save up now." Episode references: Gabi Insurance: https://www.gabi.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:33
3326: [Part 1] Your Aging Car: Repair or Replace? By Philip Taylor of PT Money on Making Smart Car Decisions
10/22/2025
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 3326: Philip Taylor breaks down the financial and emotional dilemma of whether to repair or replace an aging car, guiding you through five practical questions to assess safety, cost, and long-term value. His thoughtful analysis, paired with an inspiring story of a car-free lifestyle, offers a fresh perspective on what smart, frugal vehicle ownership can really look like. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ptmoney.com/repair-or-replace-car/ Quotes to ponder: "Is your vehicle spending more time in the shop than in your driveway?" "Even if the safety standards are up to par, reliability can be a big issue with older cars." "Before you agree to any work done on your car, get an estimate in writing." Episode references: Consumer Reports: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars Enterprise Plus Rewards Program: https://www.enterprise.com/en/loyalty.html Edmunds Car Value Tool: https://www.edmunds.com/appraisal Kelley Blue Book: https://www.kbb.com ZipCar: https://www.zipcar.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:49
3325: Why Lifestyle Inflation is Harmful and How to Avoid it by Mr. Finer on Living Well Without Overspending
10/21/2025
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 3325: Mr. Finer breaks down the subtle yet powerful trap of lifestyle inflation, showing how incremental upgrades in spending can quietly sabotage financial independence. By focusing on maximizing happiness and utility instead of status, he offers clear strategies to recognize and resist the pressure to constantly "upgrade" your life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mrfiner.com/why-lifestyle-inflation-is-harmful-and-how-to-avoid-it/ Quotes to ponder: “There is enough to meet everyone’s needs but not enough to meet everyone’s greed!” “Lifestyle inflation is like a hole in a tire. You can pump in air, but the tire will not get full until the hole is plugged.” “Maximize for happiness, not for status.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:19
3324: The Triumph of Logos by Nick Maggiulli of Of Dollars And Data on Logic Over Emotion in Money Decisions
10/20/2025
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 3324: Nick Maggiulli explores how the personal finance world is shifting from emotional storytelling and appeals to authority toward logic-driven, evidence-based insights. By comparing this evolution to the transformation seen in martial arts through the rise of the UFC, Maggiulli shows why data, not dogma, is now winning hearts, and portfolios. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ofdollarsanddata.com/the-triumph-of-logos/ Quotes to ponder: "Old, flawed ways of thinking will be pushed out by new data and evidence." "It’s the feeling of knowledge that must be preserved, not the fact of it or lack thereof." "Most millionaires don’t have huge houses, fancy cars, nor a caviar addiction." Episode references: Think and Grow Rich: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331 The Millionaire Next Door: https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Next-Door-Surprising-Americas/dp/1589795474 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:12:15
3323: Don't Eat the Doughnut by Craig Stephens of Retire Before Dad on Delayed Gratification
10/19/2025
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 3323: Craig Stephens uses the simple act of resisting a doughnut to illustrate how self-control and delayed gratification fuel long-term financial freedom. His reflection shows that every small disciplined choice shapes a stronger mindset, greater savings, and a life built on intentional habits rather than impulse. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.retirebeforedad.com/dont-eat-doughnut/ Quotes to ponder: "Every decision we make, no matter how small, contributes to who we are and where we’re going." "Self-control is a muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it becomes." "Delaying gratification today gives you more choices tomorrow." Episode references: The Millionaire Next Door: https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Next-Door-Surprising-Americas/dp/1589795474 Your Money or Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Money-Life-Transforming-Relationship/dp/0143115766 Marshmallow Test – Stanford University: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanford_marshmallow_experiment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:52
3322: Conquering your "Feelings Phobia" by Rachel Shanken of Mind Body Wise on Facing Your Emotions
10/19/2025
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 3322: Rachel Shanken invites readers to confront their “feelings phobia” by understanding that emotions are not threats but valuable messages from within. Through mindfulness, compassion, and gentle curiosity, she shows how embracing our emotions leads to deeper self-awareness, resilience, and emotional freedom. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mindbodywise.com/blog/conquering-your-feelings-phobia/ Quotes to ponder: "Many of us have a phobia of our feelings, a fear of fully feeling our emotions." "When we resist what we feel, our emotions intensify, linger, or show up in other ways, such as anxiety, irritability, or physical pain." "By allowing ourselves to feel, we open the door to healing, clarity, and peace." Episode references: Radical Acceptance: https://www.amazon.com/Radical-Acceptance-Embracing-Yourself-Awakening/dp/0553380990 The Gifts of Imperfection: https://www.amazon.com/Gifts-Imperfection-Think-Supposed-Embrace/dp/159285849X The Body Keeps the Score: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:51
3321: 5 Things That Happen When You Stop Buying S*** You Don’t Need by Sarah Von Bargen on Spending with Intention
10/18/2025
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 3321: Sarah Von Bargen reveals how cutting out unnecessary purchases transforms not just your finances but your confidence, peace of mind, and relationship with your space. By aligning spending with genuine joy and values, she shows that mindful consumption can lead to greater freedom, time, and self-trust, without relying on willpower or deprivation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.yesandyes.org/2018/05/stop-buying-shit-you-dont-need.html Quotes to ponder: "When you stop buying things you don’t need, you have more money to buy things you do." "When we work less, we have more time for the things that make us happy." "When you stop buying things you don’t need, you feel better about your space." Episode references: The Easy Way to Quit Smoking by Allen Carr: https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Way-Stop-Smoking-Without/dp/1402718616 This Naked Mind by Annie Grace: https://www.amazon.com/This-Naked-Mind-Control-Discover/dp/0525537236 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:09