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Optimal Finance Daily - Financial Independence and Money Advice

Optimal Living Daily
  • 4.5 (1.2K)
  • Investing
  • Updated Daily

Optimal Finance Daily is the #1 narrated podcast for the FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early). We curate and read the internet's most influential blogs on stock market investing, passive income, debt repayment, and 401k strategies, transforming complex wisdom into actionable daily episodes. Hosted by Diania Merriam (founder of the EconoMe conference), this show is designed for growth-minded professionals seeking wealth management tips and money mindfulness. From budgeting and frugal living to index fund investing and tax strategies, Diania provides the tools to secure your financial freedom. Join thousands of listeners becoming "OLD friends" as we navigate retirement planning, savvy money management, and the path to a debt-free life. Your journey to an optimal life begins here.

  1. [Part 2] Wealth Advice That Should Be Obvious by Mr. Money Mustache on Smart Money Habits

    8h ago

    [Part 2] Wealth Advice That Should Be Obvious by Mr. Money Mustache on Smart Money Habits

    Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) — Free. Want to turn today’s episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I’ll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It’s packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: ⁠https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join⁠ Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠. Episode 3623: Mr. Money Mustache shares a collection of simple financial habits that can dramatically reduce waste and make saving money feel effortless. From avoiding paid storage and relying less on restaurants to automating finances and buying essentials in bulk, these practical ideas reveal how efficient living naturally leads to higher savings and greater freedom. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2013/09/20/wealth-advice-that-should-be-obvious/ Quotes to ponder: "The world is not your personal buffet." "Sustenance comes from your backpack. Restaurants are for carefully planned experiences with good friends." "Your utility bills and credit cards need set to automatically pay themselves, just like your 401(k) deductions and other investment programs." Episode references: Craigslist: https://www.craigslist.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    8 min
  2. You Might Also Like: Morning Brew Daily

    9h ago ·  Bonus

    You Might Also Like: Morning Brew Daily

    Introducing American AI Companies Fend Off Chinese Copy Cats & Gen Z Loves Love Island from Morning Brew Daily. Follow the show: Morning Brew Daily #884: American AI companies are sounding the alarm on Chinese companies copying their models through “distillation.” Stellantis officially opens its doors to the sale of the tiny car priced at under $15,000. The US is seeing its middle-aged population slowly shrinking and which could harm the economy. Love Island USA has been a rare hit that has captured and retained Gen Z’s attention.  Get 10% off using MORNINGBREW10 at altrarunning.com/morningbrew  Get tickets for our trivia tournament! https://caveat.nyc/events/the-morning-brew-trivia-tournament-2026-07-30  Grab tickets to our Performance Revue show! https://www.morningbrew.com/events/brew-performance-revue-2026?utm_campaign=performance_revue_2026&utm_source=mbd Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a friend, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app. Listen to Morning Brew Daily Here:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.swap.fm/l/mbd-note⁠⁠⁠  Watch Morning Brew Daily Here:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@MorningBrewDailyShow⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

  3. [Part 1] Wealth Advice That Should Be Obvious by Mr. Money Mustache on Smart Money Habits

    1d ago

    [Part 1] Wealth Advice That Should Be Obvious by Mr. Money Mustache on Smart Money Habits

    Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) — Free. Want to turn today’s episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I’ll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It’s packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: ⁠https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join⁠ Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠. Episode 3622: Mr. Money Mustache lays out deceptively simple principles that separate wealth-building from self-sabotage, from avoiding gambling and lifestyle inflation to questioning every purchase. His practical approach reframes money as a tool for buying freedom, offering a refreshing perspective on spending, investing, and long-term happiness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2013/09/20/wealth-advice-that-should-be-obvious/ Quotes to ponder: "The only way to win, is to not play." "The only way to get “lucky” in life, is to understand the odds in all areas, and place your own chips on the side where they are in your favor." "You never, ever gamble if your goal is to get richer. It’s as simple as that." Episode references: Las Vegas: https://www.visitlasvegas.com/ Ecuador Travel Information: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/ecuador Chipotle Mexican Grill: https://www.chipotle.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    11 min
  4. How Do You Take a Vacation While Paying Off Debt? by Laurie Sepulveda with Women Who Money

    2d ago

    How Do You Take a Vacation While Paying Off Debt? by Laurie Sepulveda with Women Who Money

    Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) — Free. Want to turn today’s episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I’ll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It’s packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: ⁠https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join⁠ Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠. Episode 3621: Laurie Sepulveda explains why taking a carefully planned vacation can actually help you stay motivated during a long debt payoff journey. She shares practical ways to budget, save cash in advance, and enjoy affordable travel experiences without adding new debt, so you can make memories while still reaching your financial goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/vacation-while-paying-down-debt/ Quotes to ponder: "Remember, you're getting rid of debt, not adding to it." "Traveling is about seeing new places and changing up your routine. And feeding your need for novelty and adventure." "Remember, paying off a considerable amount of debt can take years. That doesn't mean you can't have any fun along the way." Episode references: Kayak: https://www.kayak.com/ Scott's Cheap Flights (Going): https://www.going.com/ National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/ Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    9 min
  5. 6 Habits of Above Average Retirement Savers by Craig Stephens of Retire Before Dad on Retirement Savings

    3d ago

    6 Habits of Above Average Retirement Savers by Craig Stephens of Retire Before Dad on Retirement Savings

    Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) — Free. Want to turn today’s episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I’ll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It’s packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: ⁠https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join⁠ Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠. Episode 3620: Craig Stephens outlines six practical habits that separate above-average retirement savers from everyone else, from consistently investing in tax-advantaged accounts to avoiding high fees and ignoring market noise. His advice shows how small, disciplined decisions made over many years can dramatically improve long-term financial security and help build a retirement portfolio that supports your goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.retirebeforedad.com/6-habits-above-average-retirement-savers/ Quotes to ponder: "Among the most important savings habits is consistency." "Successful retirement savers have an eye on the future and are less inclined to splurge on short-term pleasures and shiny objects." "The best strategy for most everyone is to contribute to accounts regularly and keep your hands off." Episode references: Vanguard How America Saves Report: https://institutional.vanguard.com/how-america-saves/overview.html Roth IRA Information – IRS: https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/roth-iras Fidelity Retirement Savings Statistics: https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/retirement/retirement-savings-by-age Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    10 min
  6. What are Your Money Milestones by ESI on Financial Milestones

    4d ago

    What are Your Money Milestones by ESI on Financial Milestones

    Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) — Free. Want to turn today’s episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I’ll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It’s packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: ⁠https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join⁠ Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠. Episode 3619: ESI reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his path to financial independence, from growing up with limited means to investing in education, embracing frugality, and building wealth through real estate. His personal milestones reveal how a series of intentional decisions and lessons can compound into early retirement and lasting financial security. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://esimoney.com/what-are-your-money-milestones/ Quotes to ponder: “After all, you can make a million dollars a year, but if you spend $1.01 million, you’re going backwards.” “Offense wins games but defense wins championships!” “I was the ‘expert’ but I was learning TONS myself, both from reading so much about money but also from the comments readers would leave.” Episode references: The Richest Man in Babylon: https://www.amazon.com/Richest-Man-Babylon-George-Clason/dp/1505339111 Dave Ramsey: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ 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

    9 min
  7. Finding Freedom and Fulfillment by Conquering Debt by Claire Wilde with Everthrive on Financial Independence

    4d ago

    Finding Freedom and Fulfillment by Conquering Debt by Claire Wilde with Everthrive on Financial Independence

    Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) — Free. Want to turn today’s episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I’ll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It’s packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: ⁠https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join⁠ Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠. Episode 3618: Claire Wilde shares how panic attacks, overwhelming debt, and an overcommitted lifestyle pushed her to rethink what success really meant. By simplifying her possessions, paying off debt, and embracing a slower, more intentional way of living, she reveals practical steps anyone can take to reduce anxiety and create more freedom and fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://everthrive.org/blog/2017/8/12/finding-freedom-and-fulfillment-by-conquering-debt Quotes to ponder: "You are never alone and situations are never helpless." "In life, there will always be drudgery, but make sure you know what your antidotes are." "Build pauses into your day and then guard them fiercely." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    9 min
  8. How We Paid Off $17,000+ in Student Loan Debt in Just 54 Days by Dave Cahill with Jackie Beck

    5d ago

    How We Paid Off $17,000+ in Student Loan Debt in Just 54 Days by Dave Cahill with Jackie Beck

    Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) — Free. Want to turn today’s episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I’ll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It’s packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: ⁠https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join⁠ Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠. Episode 3617: Dave Cahill shares how a career change, the weight of student loan debt, and a desire for more freedom pushed him and his wife to eliminate more than $17,000 in debt in just 54 days. His story reveals the power of intentional sacrifice, aggressive budgeting, and taking calculated risks to create financial freedom and open the door to new opportunities. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jackiebeck.com/how-we-paid-off-17000-in-student-loan-debt-in-54-days/ Quotes to ponder: "Our large emergency fund was our security blanket. It gave us peace. But neither of us could shake the uncontrollable urge to wipe out our debt." "But don’t be afraid to bet on yourself and take reasonable risks to achieve debt freedom." "Paying off my student loans so quickly was a big challenge, but the resulting freedom and opportunities to pursue my passions are benefits which I wouldn’t trade for anything." Episode references: Finance Superhero: https://financesuperhero.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    9 min
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4.5
out of 5
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About

Optimal Finance Daily is the #1 narrated podcast for the FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early). We curate and read the internet's most influential blogs on stock market investing, passive income, debt repayment, and 401k strategies, transforming complex wisdom into actionable daily episodes. Hosted by Diania Merriam (founder of the EconoMe conference), this show is designed for growth-minded professionals seeking wealth management tips and money mindfulness. From budgeting and frugal living to index fund investing and tax strategies, Diania provides the tools to secure your financial freedom. Join thousands of listeners becoming "OLD friends" as we navigate retirement planning, savvy money management, and the path to a debt-free life. Your journey to an optimal life begins here.

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