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
3371: When, Why and How We Give by Julien Saunders of Rich and Regular on Giving With Intention
11/30/2025
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 3371: Julien Saunders shares a heartfelt exploration of how giving, whether through financial support, gifts, or time, aligns with their values and fuels their pursuit of financial independence. By embracing a flexible, impact-driven approach to generosity, the Saunders family demonstrates how giving can become both a personal responsibility and a tool for meaningful change. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://richandregular.com/when-why-and-how-we-give/ Quotes to ponder: "Giving isn’t a competition and it’s ok to simply give what you want, when you want to." "Sales are signs of life and hope for them." "We view our investment strategy as an act of radical self-responsibility." Episode references: NPR (National Public Radio): https://www.npr.org/ PBS (Public Broadcasting Service): https://www.pbs.org/ The Power of Giving: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Giving-Creating-Abundance-Yourself/dp/1585427519 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:31
3370: How To Transform Loneliness Into Joyful Solitude by Kat Medina on Finding Peace in Solitude
11/30/2025
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 3370: Kat Medina reflects on how solo travel helped her redefine loneliness as a gateway to joyful solitude and personal growth. Through honest storytelling and a five-day self-connection challenge, she encourages us to disconnect from distractions and rediscover the richness of our own company. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.katmedina.com/article?id=solitude Quotes to ponder: "There are some moments that are more impactful when experienced by oneself, reminding me that there is a clear difference between alone and lonely." "If you prioritize some time for yourself to just ‘be’, you can transform isolation into solitude." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:08:28
3369: What Happens to My Debt When I Die? by Christine Luken on Looking Out For Your Family's Financial Health
11/29/2025
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 3369: Christine Luken offers a clear-eyed guide to understanding how different types of debt, mortgages, credit cards, student loans, and medical bills, are handled after death, and who (if anyone) becomes responsible. With practical advice and real-life examples, she shows how proper planning can prevent financial headaches for grieving loved ones. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.christineluken.com/what-happens-to-my-debt-when-i-die/ Quotes to ponder: "Family members of a deceased person are typically not obligated to use their own money to pay for credit card debt after death." "If you have a federal student loan, then the federal government will discharge any remaining debt upon your death." "Here’s the bottom line: excessive debt is bad news all the way around." Episode references: The Motley Fool: https://www.fool.com/ Credit Karma: https://www.creditkarma.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:29
3368: 7 Lessons I Learned From Failing at Real Estate Investing by Jeff Rose of Good Financial Cents on Investment Lessons
11/28/2025
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 3368: Jeff Rose shares the hard-earned wisdom that came from diving headfirst into real estate investing without the right knowledge, mindset, or passion. His story underscores the importance of aligning your investment strategy with your skills and interests, highlighting that chasing flashy promises can lead to costly lessons. Listening to this can help you avoid common traps and clarify your own financial path. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.goodfinancialcents.com/7-lessons-i-learned-from-failing-at-real-estate-investing/ Quotes to ponder: "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, and it was!" "Always stick with what you know and love, and leave the other stuff to other people." "Reaching financial freedom is not a race!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:21
3367: Financial Lessons From a Rugby Field by Michael Smith with Financial Finesse on Long-term Financial Strategy
11/27/2025
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 3367: Michael Smith draws powerful parallels between playing rugby and managing money, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, mental resilience, and meaningful relationships. His insights show how trusting a solid team of financial professionals, sticking to long-term strategies, and redefining your relationship with money can lead to greater peace of mind and financial success. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2015/12/11/financial-lessons-from-a-rugby-field/ Quotes to ponder: "Expecting to win some and lose some can help take the over-reaction out of investing." "Not being defined by your financial situation at any moment in time is a very important skill to learn." “Pick a strategy and stick to it in good markets and bad.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:35
3366: Financial Independence Is A Hall Pass For Safe Reinvention by Dave of Accidental FIRE on Financial Freedom
11/26/2025
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 3366: Dave from Accidental FIRE explores how financial independence can become a powerful launchpad for reinvention after professional decline. Drawing from Arthur Brooks’ research and personal experience, he makes a compelling case for using FI not just to retire, but to pivot purposefully, whether that means teaching, deepening relationships, or pursuing long-dormant passions. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://accidentalfire.com/2022/06/28/financial-independence-is-a-hall-pass-for-safe-reinvention/ Quotes to ponder: "The research showed that it’s not all decline past 40. Certain aptitudes grow during middle age that favor wisdom, teaching, and sharing ideas." "Experiencing professional decline in your chosen field is a just a queue to start the ball rolling on a new career." "Financial independence is basically a hall pass for safe reinvention." Episode references: From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks: https://www.amazon.com/Strength-Finding-Success-Happiness-Purpose/dp/059319148X The Atlantic article by Arthur Brooks: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/03/work-peak-professional-decline/617796/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:23
3365: Failing at Early Retirement by Jeremy of Go Curry Cracker on Retirement Planning
11/25/2025
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 3365: Jeremy challenges the notion that earning income after early retirement equals failure, sharing his own experiment with seasonal work as a UPS driver. His candid reflection reveals how flexibility, self-awareness, and reevaluating what “retirement” means can lead to greater peace of mind, without compromising your values or financial independence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gocurrycracker.com/failing-at-early-retirement/ Quotes to ponder: "Should you feel like you failed at early retirement if you decide to do some paid work? No." "The greatest financial benefit was that it reminded me of just how much time and energy is required to make $100." "Try some things, no big deal. Maybe you will enjoy some work and find it brings value to your life." Episode references: UPS Personal Vehicle Driver Program: https://www.jobs-ups.com/personal-vehicle-drivers Amazon Flex: https://flex.amazon.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:21
3364: [Part 2] Financial FOMO: What, Why and How To Avoid It by Joel of 5AMJoel on Financial Awareness
11/24/2025
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 3364: Joel explores how Financial FOMO quietly undermines progress by fueling comparison, indecision, and unrealistic expectations. With practical mindset shifts like appreciation, JOMO, and a "low information diet," he shows how to reclaim clarity, peace, and confidence on your unique financial path. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://5amjoel.com/financial-fomo/ Quotes to ponder: "Missing out gives you more time to focus on other stuff that matters to you. Think 'Less = More'." "You are comparing their 'outsides' with your 'insides.' The outside appearance of people will always trump your inside feelings about yourself." "Think about all the things you do have, instead of all the things you don’t have." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:22
3363: [Part 1] Financial FOMO: What, Why and How To Avoid It by Joel of 5AMJoel on Financial Awareness
11/23/2025
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 3363: Joel unpacks the toxic effects of Financial FOMO, the anxiety-driven urge to chase every wealth-building trend, and how it can derail both your mindset and money. Through the story of Steve, we see how constantly comparing yourself to others’ financial wins can create a cycle of stress, distraction, and wasted energy that undermines long-term success. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://5amjoel.com/financial-fomo/ Quotes to ponder: "Financial FOMO is a little more specific to money and investing. It’s when you worry about missing out on financial success or profitable events, and that worry makes you do harmful things to grow your wealth." "Getting ahead financially is as much about how you feel about your money as it is about how much money you have." "It might sound cool to have Financial FOMO, but it can actually be detrimental to your financial success." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:08
3362: Growth Happens At Our Limits: Embrace it. by Steve Kamb of Nerd Fitness on Personal Growth
11/23/2025
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 3362: Steve Kamb reveals how true personal growth lies just beyond our comfort zone, right where failure, fear, and challenge live. By embracing the discomfort of trying and stretching ourselves at the edge of our capabilities, we build resilience, confidence, and real progress over time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nerdfitness.com/blog/growth-happens-at-our-limits-embrace-it/ Quotes to ponder: "Growth comes from the edge of our capabilities, where we try something we’re not good at and improve over time." "You can’t become stronger without pushing yourself beyond what you can currently do." "If you only ever do the things you’re good at, you’ll never grow." Episode references: Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins: https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Hurt-Me-Master-Your/dp/1544512287 Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299 Grit by Angela Duckworth: https://www.amazon.com/Grit-Passion-Perseverance-Angela-Duckworth/dp/1501111108 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:36
3361: Have Yourself a Frugal Little Christmas by Jen Hayes on Holiday Budgeting
11/22/2025
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 3361: Jen Hayes shares smart, practical strategies for celebrating Christmas joyfully without overspending, from DIY gifts to careful budgeting and bargain hunting. Her thoughtful advice helps reduce financial stress while keeping the season meaningful, creative, and debt-free. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jenhayes.me/have-yourself-frugal-little-christmas/ Quotes to ponder: "Christmas really is a lot of fun so it’s all worth it, just follow the tips here to stop yourself from overspending and getting into trouble financially." "You could save a fortune and still get the joy of handing someone a present; they will know you’ve put the effort in too which is far more special than the amount of money paid." "Instead of spending lots of money on fancy cakes and chocolate, have a look on Pinterest for recipes and make your own." Episode references: DontPayFull: https://www.dontpayfull.com Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:59
3360: How to Build a Starter Emergency Fund in 30 Days or Less by Jackie Beck on Financial Security
11/21/2025
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 3360: Jackie Beck offers a simple, empowering 30-day plan to kickstart your emergency savings, breaking down a goal that often feels overwhelming into small, daily steps. With a focus on creating realistic habits and tracking actual spending, she shows how anyone can begin to build financial security, even on a tight budget. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jackiebeck.com/how-to-build-a-starter-emergency-fund-in-30-days-or-less/ Quotes to ponder: "Any amount is more than you had before. It’s something that will insulate you from an emergency that much more than nothing." "Save FIRST and always instead, and then you’ll have it done." "Make saving for emergencies a habit, and keep at it until you reach whatever larger goal feels comfortable to you." Episode references: Capital One 360 Savings Account: https://www.capitalone.com/bank/savings-accounts/online-performance-savings-account/ Bankrate Emergency Savings Survey: https://www.bankrate.com/banking/savings/emergency-savings-report/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:05
3359: 9 Painless Ways To Trick Yourself Into Spending Less by Sarah Von Bargen of Yes and Yes on Money-Saving Habits
11/20/2025
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 3359: Sarah Von Bargen shares simple yet surprisingly effective ways to curb spending without feeling deprived. By adding small layers of friction, like unsubscribing from sales emails or using cash-only budgets, you can outsmart impulse buys and reclaim control over your money with minimal effort. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.yesandyes.org/2018/12/spending-less-tricks.html Quotes to ponder: "If we can’t be bothered to stand up and go get our credit cards, we probably didn’t really want the item that much to begin with." "Multiple studies have shown that people who shop hungry spend 60-70% more (!!!) than their non-hungry peers." "One of the best things I’ve ever done for my mental health was unfollow accounts that made me feel less-than and fill my feed with people who are in my size, age, and tax bracket." Episode references: Block Site for Chrome: https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/block- Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:40
3358: What is Your Retirement Manifesto? by Kathleen Coxwell of New Retirement on Retirement Planning
11/19/2025
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 3358: Kathleen Coxwell invites you to craft a deeply personal retirement manifesto, a clear, intentional declaration of your values, dreams, and life lessons. By articulating what matters most and how you want to spend your time, you'll find greater purpose, fulfillment, and direction in the next chapter of your life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/what-is-your-retirement-manifesto/ Quotes to ponder: "This is your time to be defined by you." "Writing a manifesto can be a great way of thinking about what you want out of your life and a way of holding yourself accountable for being who you want to be." "You will want to use positive statements, say what you want (not what you don’t want)." Episode references: EconoMe Conference: https://www.economeconference.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:35
3357: Don't Let Shopping Ruin Your Holiday Season by Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist on Stress-Free Holidays
11/18/2025
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 3357: Joshua Becker reveals how decades of marketing have hijacked the spirit of the holidays, turning a season meant for connection into one dominated by consumerism and stress. He offers a compelling case for simplifying gift-giving, focusing instead on meaningful traditions that bring real joy and lasting memories. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/dont-let-shopping-ruin-your-holidays/ Quotes to ponder: "Retail promises the perfect Christmas, but ruins it instead." "Shopping is resulting in the exact opposite emotions we desire during this holiday season." "Lifestyle creep is not just for adults… the phenomena exists for children as well." Episode references: The Hope Effect: https://www.hopeeffect.com/givingtuesday2021 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:14
3356: Negotiate Your Next Raise or Starting Salary by Laurie Sepulveda of Women Who Money on Salary Negotiation
11/17/2025
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 3356: Laurie Sepulveda breaks down why many women struggle with salary negotiations and outlines how to shift from self-doubt to confidence through research, practice, and strategic silence. By understanding your market value, leveraging your accomplishments, and getting comfortable with making counter-offers, you can start earning what you're truly worth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/negotiate-next-raise/ Quotes to ponder: "Unless we're armed with knowledge [meaning cold, hard money facts], we don't have the upper hand in negotiating." "Silence can be a very powerful negotiation tool, mainly because it allows you to react in a way that eliminates much of the emotion from the conversation." "One of the most potent ways to increase the amount you’re offered is to simply make a counter-offer when you’re presented with the first salary number." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:21
3355: 7 Things You Will Never Regret Spending Money On by Jennifer of SimplyFiercely on Intentional Spending
11/16/2025
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 3355: Jennifer explores seven thoughtful investments that consistently pay off in the long run from personal growth to practical tools that save time and stress. Her insights challenge the guilt often tied to spending, encouraging more intentional choices that align with your values and enhance everyday life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.simplyfiercely.com/7-things-you-will-never-regret-spending-money-on/ Quotes to ponder: "You’ll never regret spending money on things that help you grow as a person." "Spending money to save time and energy isn't lazy, it's strategic." "When you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else, so make your choices count." Episode references: Atomic Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299 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:00:09:29
3354: Life Is a Triangle. Master Its 3 Points to Live a Kick-A** Existence by Charlie Brown of Simple and Straightforward
11/16/2025
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 3354: Charlie Brown outlines a refreshingly simple but powerful framework for designing a fulfilling life by mastering three key areas, personal finance, meaningful work, and intentional living. By rethinking your money habits, rejecting uninspired career norms, and embracing simplicity, you build a sturdy foundation for freedom, joy, and authenticity in everyday life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/better-advice/life-is-a-triangle-master-its-3-points-to-live-a-kick-ass-existence-821b340b0c71 Quotes to ponder: "Once you have an aim, the mechanics of personal finance suddenly look a lot more appealing." "The day I realized there is another way was the day my working life started to slot into place." "Simple living is the long-ass line at the bottom, the foundation of it all." Episode references: Tim Denning article quote (source site): https://timdenning.com Theodore Roosevelt quote: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/777-nothing-in-the-world-is-worth-having-or-worth-doing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:12:10
3353: 4 Common Mistakes That Investors Make by Tony with MoneyMiniBlog on Smart Investing
11/15/2025
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 3353: Tony outlines common investing pitfalls that trip up even the most well-intentioned investors, from emotional trading to lack of diversification. With straightforward tips and reminders, he encourages readers to adopt a steady, informed approach that leads to long-term wealth and financial resilience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://moneyminiblog.com/lists/common-investing-mistakes/ Quotes to ponder: "People buy high because of greed and sell low because of fear." "Successful investors don’t let emotions control their investing decisions." "It’s better to invest for the long haul and let the market do what it does." Episode references: Rich Dad Poor Dad: https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612681131 The Bogleheads’ Guide to Investing: https://www.amazon.com/Bogleheads-Guide-Investing-Taylor-Larimore/dp/1118921283 The Intelligent Investor: https://www.amazon.com/Intelligent-Investor-Definitive-Value-Investing/dp/0060555661 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:08:58
3352: Facing and Fighting Financial Trolls by J.D. Roth of Get Rich Slowly on Financial Resilience
11/14/2025
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 3352: J.D. Roth exposes the two-headed beast of financial trolls, those external voices that discourage your progress, and the internal ones that sabotage it from within. By naming these voices and providing clear strategies to silence them, he empowers readers to protect their mindset, build confidence, and finally start using money as the tool it’s meant to be. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/facing-and-fighting-financial-trolls/ Quotes to ponder: "A financial troll is a close cousin to the forum troll, except that financial trolls strive to sabotage your financial pursuits." "Money is more about mind than it is about math." "Complainers are poisonous." Episode references: FIRE the Haters by Jillian Johnsrud: https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Haters-Finding-Courage-Critical/dp/1736549820 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:54