

Optimal Finance Daily - Financial Independence and Money Advice
Optimal Living Daily | Diania Merriam
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
Mentioned books

Jan 29, 2025 • 11min
3022: The Myth Of Diversification And Why It Means It’s Okay To Take Chances by Kevin of Financial Panther
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 3022:Taking chances might seem risky, but as Kevin of Financial Panther points out, we already make all-in bets on our careers, relationships, and life choices without even realizing it. Rather than fearing the unknown, embracing uncertainty can be freeing especially when most decisions aren’t as life-altering as they seem. By recognizing that we’ve already taken big leaps, we can give ourselves permission to take more chances on what truly matters.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://financialpanther.com/the-myth-of-diversification/Quotes to ponder:"It took me a long time to take a chance on myself even after years of finding myself unhappy with the work I was doing.""The worst-case scenarios that we think about rarely happen and even the worst-case scenarios usually aren’t as bad as we think they are.""If you’re going to put everything on the line anyway, you might as well put it all on the line for something you really want."Episode references:Qube Money: https://qubemoney.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 28, 2025 • 10min
3021: How to Calculate Your Net Worth And Why It Can Help by Jackie Beck on Financial Awareness and 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 3021:Understanding your net worth is a powerful tool for financial awareness. Jackie Beck breaks down how to calculate it, why it matters, and how tracking it over time can guide your financial decisions. Whether you're aiming to pay off debt or build wealth, knowing where you stand helps you set meaningful goals and measure progress.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jackiebeck.com/net-worth/Quotes to ponder:"Net Worth = Assets - Liabilities. It’s as simple as that, but understanding this equation can change how you approach your finances.""You live your life, not anyone else’s, so paying attention to your money is key.""Knowing where you are money-wise can help you pick what to focus on. That’s important if you want to reach your goals."Episode references:Tiller’s Spreadsheet: https://www.tillerhq.com/Join 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 27, 2025 • 10min
3020: [Part 2] Stocks - Part XXIII: Selecting Your Asset Allocation by JL Collins on Wealth Accumulation Phase
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 3020:JL Collins breaks down the key factors in determining your asset allocation, focusing on risk tolerance, flexibility, and financial standing. He explains how these elements shape investment decisions, highlights personal examples, and offers insights into balancing stocks and bonds based on your financial stage. Whether you're in wealth accumulation or preservation, this guide helps you craft a strategy suited to your goals.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jlcollinsnh.com/2014/06/10/stocks-part-xxiii-selecting-your-asset-allocation/Quotes to ponder:"Only you can decide, but if ever there was a time to be brutally honest with yourself, this is it.""For the smoothest transition, you might start slowly shifting into your bond allocation 5 or 10 years before you are fully retired.""It is better to buy and sell in tax-advantaged accounts to avoid creating taxable events."Episode references:Never Pay Taxes Again: https://www.gocurrycracker.com/never-pay-taxes-again/The Simple Path to Wealth: https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Path-Wealth-Financial-Independence/dp/1533667926Join 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 26, 2025 • 10min
3019: [Part 1] Stocks - Part XXIII: Selecting Your Asset Allocation by JL Collins on Building and Preserving 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 3019:JL Collins emphasizes the power of simplicity in investing, advocating for a two-fund strategy using VTSAX (stocks) and VBTLX (bonds) to navigate the wealth acquisition and preservation stages. He explains that while 100% stocks often yield the best returns, adding a small percentage of bonds can smooth volatility. The key to success isn’t complexity but discipline staying the course through market ups and downs while keeping costs low.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jlcollinsnh.com/2014/06/10/stocks-part-xxiii-selecting-your-asset-allocation/Quotes to ponder:“There is a major crash coming and you’ve got to toughen up, cupcake, because nobody can predict when, despite all those claiming they can.”“The more you hold in stocks the better your results and the more gut wrenching the volatility you’ll be required to endure.”“Making a few sound choices and letting them run is the essence of success, and the soul of the simple path to wealth.”Episode references:Vanguard Retirement Nest Egg Calculator: https://retirementplans.vanguard.com/VGApp/pe/pubeducation/calculators/RetirementNestEggCalc.jsfBetterment: https://www.betterment.comThe Simple Path to Wealth: https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Path-Wealth-Financial-Independence/dp/1533667926Join 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 26, 2025 • 10min
3018: Millionaire Success Habits & How One Simple Change Can Lead To Business Success by Steve Chou
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 3018:Small habits shape our lives more than we realize, and Steve Chou explains how a single tiny change can set off a chain reaction of lasting success. By shifting just one routine, you can reshape your mindset, build momentum, and create exponential growth over time. Understanding the power of habit formation unlocks your potential for long-term transformation.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mywifequitherjob.com/your-habits-and-how-one-small-change-can-lead-to-long-term-success/Quotes to ponder:"Small changes, when consistently repeated, create exponential results over time.""The habits you cultivate today determine the trajectory of your future success.""Success isn’t built overnight; it’s the result of tiny, consistent steps taken over time."Episode references:Atomic Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299Tiny Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Habits-Changes-Change-Everything/dp/0358003326The Power of Habit: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160XJoin 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 25, 2025 • 10min
3017: The 10 Reasons Why You’re Living Paycheck To Paycheck by Christina Browning of Our Rich Journey
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 3017:Many high-income earners still struggle financially, living paycheck to paycheck due to unchecked spending habits. Christina Browning of OurRichJourney.com highlights key reasons why, from overspending on housing, cars, and gadgets to financing vacations and keeping up appearances. By identifying these pitfalls and shifting toward mindful money management, financial independence becomes more attainable.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.ourrichjourney.com/post/the-10-reasons-why-youre-living-paycheck-to-paycheckQuotes to ponder:"You don’t know where your money is going this is a pretty basic one, and can easily be solved by making a budget and tracking your expenses.""Keeping up with the Joneses is nowhere near as important as having assets and financial stability.""Vacations can cost big money! My recommendation to you: budget for your vacation, plan your vacations out ahead of time, save for your vacations, and don’t go into debt over a vacation!"Join 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 24, 2025 • 11min
3016: I Used To Be a Hater by FIRECracker of Millennial Revolution on Self-Awareness and Personal Growth
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 3016:Firecracker reflects on her past as a "hater," resisting the hard truths of Larry Smith's TED talk on fear and excuses. Over time, she recognizes that her resistance was rooted in fear of failure, leading her to push past self-doubt and pursue her dreams. Her journey highlights the power of self-awareness, the courage to face discomfort, and the importance of stepping out of the safety of excuses to build a fulfilling life.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.millennial-revolution.com/freedom/i-used-to-be-a-hater/Quotes to ponder:"When you’re afraid, it’s easy to become a hater. Because haters don’t need to step into the arena, they don’t need to look ridiculous, they don’t need to show up, day after day, week after week, year after year.""I’m glad I’m not a hater anymore. I’m glad I pushed past the fear. I’m glad I got to where I am today because I refused to let myself get too comfortable."Join 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 23, 2025 • 8min
3015: 5 Financial Habits Every Powerful Woman Needs by Daneika of Learning 2 Fly on How to Save 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 3015:Daneika of Learning2Fly.org shares five essential financial habits every powerful woman should cultivate to create financial freedom and stability. From paying yourself first and living below your means to eliminating debt and building an opportunity fund, these habits empower women to take control of their financial future. By mastering these principles, you'll have the flexibility to embrace opportunities and navigate life's uncertainties with confidence.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://learning2fly.org/5-financial-habits-every-powerful-woman-needs/Quotes to ponder:"Your biggest financial obligation is to yourself first.""The more of a gap you can create between what you earn and what you spend, the easier it will be to navigate a sudden job loss, an unexpected medical condition, or major car repair.""Whatever long-term goals you may have, deciding to create an opportunity fund for yourself will give you the ability to say yes to your deepest desires and dreams in the future."Join 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 22, 2025 • 8min
3014: Cash Tips: Review Your Car, Home or Renters Insurance by Harry N. Stout of FinancialVerse on Saving 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 3014:Reviewing your insurance policies annually can save you money and ensure you have the right coverage. Harry Stout emphasizes the importance of shopping around for auto, home, and renters insurance, maximizing discounts, and considering a personal umbrella liability policy for added protection. Small adjustments like bundling policies, improving your credit score, or raising deductibles can lead to significant savings while keeping you financially secure.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialverse.com/post/review-your-car-home-or-renters-insuranceQuotes to ponder:"You can save money on your home, renters, and car insurance coverage by taking some time once per year to see if you are getting a competitive price for the coverage you need.""Raising your deductible can save you as much as 25% on your premium.""Shopping around with different insurance carriers will make sure you have the best rates possible."Episode references:Insurance Information Institute: https://www.iii.orgTop Tips for The Best Car Insurance Plan: https://cheapquotesautoinsurance.com/top-tips-for-the-best-car-insurance-planJoin 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 21, 2025 • 10min
3013: Mark Cuban Tells You How To Get Rich by J Money of Budgets Are Sexy on Wealth Building 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 3013:J. Money breaks down Mark Cuban’s no-nonsense approach to getting rich, emphasizing discipline, smart spending, and having cash ready for opportunities. Cuban warns against get-rich-quick schemes, promotes lifelong learning, and challenges conventional retirement savings by prioritizing cash liquidity over long-term stockpiling. J. Money adds his own insights, making wealth-building feel practical, strategic, and achievable.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.budgetsaresexy.com/mark-cuban-how-to-get-rich/Quotes to ponder:"There are no shortcuts. NONE. If a deal is a great deal, they aren’t going to share it with you.""Save as much money as you possibly can. Every penny you can. no matter what.""It doesn’t matter what it is. Whatever your hobbies, interests, passions are, find the one you love the best and GET A JOB in the business that supports it."Episode references:The Millionaire Next Door: https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Next-Door-Surprising-Americas/dp/1589795474Join 250K readers (20% of which have hit 7 figures) who are already building a brighter financial future - subscribe now. Sign up at readthejoe.com/subscribe-swap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices