

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

Dec 31, 2023 • 9min
2571: 5 Ways to Involve Kids in the Family Budget by Chelsea of Smart Money Mamas on Financial Literacy For Children
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 2571:Chelsea from SmartMoneyMamas.com provides insightful strategies to involve children in family finances. The article emphasizes practical methods like using cash for certain expenses, understanding entertainment budgets, and maintaining a family savings chart. These approaches not only make money tangible for kids but also instill valuable financial habits early on.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://smartmoneymamas.com/5-ways-to-involve-kids-in-the-family-budget/Quotes to ponder:"The best ways to involve your children in the family budget are going to be any methods that get them physically involved.""If we discuss money with our children inconsistently or make it clear that is an uncomfortable subject for us, the first financial lesson our kids will learn is money is mysterious and scary.""Fully understanding the idea of opportunity cost from a young age will help [children] make smarter financial decisions as an adult." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 31, 2023 • 10min
2570: When Life Throws You Curveballs by Julie Morgenstern on Parenting Challenges
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 2570:Julie Morgenstern's article offers invaluable guidance for parents on managing life's unexpected challenges. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help and prioritizing self-care during crises, ensuring parents can maintain their well-being while effectively supporting their children.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.juliemorgenstern.com/tips-tools-blog/2020/6/5/when-life-throws-you-curveballsQuotes to ponder:"Curveballs can deal a leveling blow. They disrupt our whole way of life, turning our systems upside down.""In order to be in a position to soothe your kids, you first need to soothe yourself.""Whatever unexpected situations life has in store for you, remember they are made more manageable by getting some help and taking care of yourself first." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 30, 2023 • 10min
2569: Stop Using These 6 Ridiculous Excuses For Not Saving Money by Michelle Schroeder-Gardner of Making Sense of Cents on Financial Health
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 2569:Michelle Schroeder-Gardner's article debunks six common excuses that hinder effective savings, emphasizing the importance of overcoming psychological barriers to financial health. She illustrates how changing beliefs and attitudes toward money can significantly improve one's financial situation.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.makingsenseofcents.com/2015/05/stop-using-these-excuses-for-not-saving-money.htmlQuotes to ponder:"The truth is that you can still live a great life AND save money.""Saving something is better than saving nothing.""If others are doing better financially, they are merely showing you what is also possible for you." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 29, 2023 • 11min
2568: How to Stop Worrying About Money by Jessica Jokisch of ChristineLuken.com on Financial Health
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 2568:Jessica Jokisch's insightful article, "How to Stop Worrying About Money," offers a practical and empowering approach to achieving financial peace. Jokisch shares her personal journey and effective strategies, including facing financial facts, positive self-talk, gratitude, and taking small actionable steps, to help individuals break free from the constant anxiety over finances.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.christineluken.com/how-to-stop-worrying-about-money/Quotes to ponder:"Once you know what you’re dealing with, you can see where positive change is needed and make a game plan for action.""Your new, positive money mantras need to both sound good and feel good to you.""Tap into the 'dynamic duo' of money worry busters: gratitude and generosity." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 28, 2023 • 10min
2567: How We Developed Couple Financial Goals by Amanda of Women Who Money on Communication and Trust
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 2567:Amanda from WomenWhoMoney.com shares her journey of developing shared financial goals with her partner, revealing it was not an overnight success. Despite initial money mistakes and differing views, their commitment to communication, honesty, and mutual respect laid the foundation for achieving their financial dreams together.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/develop-shared-financial-goals/Quotes to ponder:"But putting effort into our relationship and our finances was worth it. It's taken time and hard work — but our shared goals have improved our money and lives.""Without mutual respect and trust, it's tough to open up and talk about anything, let alone money.""To us, that's what money is for — to use as a tool to create a life you love! I can’t think of a better reason to set shared money goals."Episode references:Monarch Money: Monarch Money website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 27, 2023 • 11min
2566: What is Debt Settlement and How Does It Work? by James Lambridis of Debt MD on Financial Management
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 2566:James Lambridis' article on debt settlement offers a thorough understanding of how these organizations operate, outlining the process, risks, and considerations involved. It's a valuable resource for anyone grappling with debt, providing clarity on debt settlement's impact on credit scores, tax implications, and the potential pitfalls of engaging with such companies.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.debtmd.com/blog/what-is-debt-settlement-and-how-does-it-work?Quotes to ponder:"Debt settlement can be a financial lifesaver if you've hit the limit on all your credit cards and find yourself getting deeper in debt."Episode references:Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Report on Debt Settlements and Credit Counseling: This resource offers valuable insights into the potential risks and considerations of engaging with debt settlement and credit counseling services. You can access it at CFPB Website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 26, 2023 • 12min
2565: [Part 2] Our Retirement Expenses: Where Does the Money Go? by Darrow Kirkpatrick of Can I Retire Yet on Budget Management
Darrow Kirkpatrick, a retirement planning expert from Can I Retire Yet, shares valuable insights on managing retirement expenses. He emphasizes the need to monitor and adjust spending, especially with variable costs like taxes and housing. Kirkpatrick discusses the financial implications of renting versus owning in retirement and how investment income can impact budgets. He provides practical strategies for adapting expenses to market changes, enabling retirees to enhance financial security and flexibility.

Dec 25, 2023 • 10min
2564: [Part 1] Our Retirement Expenses: Where Does the Money Go? by Darrow Kirkpatrick of Can I Retire Yet on Retirement Planning
Darrow Kirkpatrick, a retirement planning expert, shares essential insights on managing retirement expenses. He emphasizes tracking personal spending over national statistics to better prepare for retirement. Darrow provides a transparent breakdown of his retirement budget, highlighting various categories. This real-world perspective encourages listeners to align their spending with personal priorities, enhancing both awareness and mindfulness in financial decisions. It's an engaging discussion for anyone looking to ensure a comfortable retirement.

Dec 24, 2023 • 12min
2563: Roth Conversion by Mike Ballew of Egg Stack on Taxable Events
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 2563:Mike Ballew of EggStack.com delves into the intricacies of Roth Conversions, explaining their taxable nature and strategic benefits. He emphasizes their potential for long-term tax savings, especially for those anticipating higher future tax brackets or increased government spending. The article balances these advantages with the financial planning challenges they pose, including the impact on savings and the risks of future tax changes.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://eggstack.com/blog/2021-05-02-Roth-Conversion/Quotes to ponder:"The primary advantage of a Roth conversion is that over the long haul you may pay less in taxes.""A disadvantage of Roth conversion is that any general savings you have set aside for unexpected expenses are going to take a hit.""A Roth conversion is like when a normal character transforms into a superhero – it supercharges your retirement contributions." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 24, 2023 • 11min
2562: Am I Too Old For Personal Training by Riley Pearce of Free Form Fitness on Aging and Exercise
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 2562:Riley Pearce's article from FreeFormFitness.ca emphasizes the importance of physical fitness for seniors, highlighting how personal training can effectively address the unique challenges of aging. It outlines the physiological changes that occur with age and the significant benefits of exercise and personal training in maintaining health, mobility, and independence in later years.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://freeformfitness.ca/am-i-too-old-for-personal-training/Quotes to ponder:"Every healthy choice you make is like a deposit into a healthy retirement fund.""Physical activity is one of the few things you can do to restore mobility, balance, strength and physical functionality after it has been lost.""No, you are not too old for a personal trainer. In fact, hiring a personal trainer is the best way to guarantee that you will exercise on a regular basis in a way that will challenge and improve your physical fitness and overall health."Episode references:Canadian Society of Exercise and Physiology: Visit SiteAmerican College of Sports Medicine: Visit SiteAmerican Council on Exercise: Visit SiteNational Strength and Conditioning Association: Visit Site Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices