Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship
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Description
Optimal Work Daily, presented by the experienced narrator Dan, is a podcast that focuses on enhancing productivity, creativity, and work-life balance. Dan provides clear and engaging narration of thought-provoking articles from leading experts in the fields of work, career development, productivity, and entrepreneurship.
Optimal Work Daily is an ideal resource for professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to maximize their potential in the workplace. The podcast's diverse range of topics, from time management strategies to fostering creativity, provides valuable insights for enhancing performance and achieving career satisfaction, making it a must-listen as you strive to excel in your professional life.
Whether you're aiming to advance your career, boost productivity, or delve into entrepreneurship, Optimal Work Daily offers practical advice and inspiration. Each episode focuses on work, career, productivity, and entrepreneurship, providing you with the tools needed to thrive professionally. Dan's engaging narration and the podcast's insightful content make it an essential daily listen for those dedicated to career growth and success.
This podcast is designed for those passionate about work, career, productivity, and entrepreneurship. It’s your go-to source for practical advice on enhancing your work performance, advancing your career, and exploring entrepreneurship. Each episode offers actionable steps to foster productivity and professional growth, emphasizing the importance of work, career, productivity, and entrepreneurship in achieving your goals.
Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...
1826 Episodes
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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 1825:
Kalen Bruce highlights how entrepreneurs can sharpen their skills by embracing continuous learning, surrounding themselves with mentors, and staying adaptable in changing markets. His insights show that growth as a business owner isn’t just about strategy but also about cultivating habits that drive resilience, focus, and long-term success.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://moneyminiblog.com/business/entrepreneur-skill-development/
Quotes to ponder:
"Entrepreneurship is a skill that must be developed, learned, and practiced."
"You’ll never ‘arrive’ at a point where you no longer need to learn or grow."
"Always keep learning, always keep growing, and never get too comfortable."
Episode references:
Think and Grow Rich: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331
How to Win Friends and Influence People: https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034
Rich Dad Poor Dad: https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612680194
7 Habits of Highly Effective People: https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful/dp/0743269519
The Lean Startup: https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Startup-Entrepreneurs-Continuous-Innovation/dp/0307887898
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![1824: [Part 2] 5 Simple Steps to Get More Clients Than You Can Handle by Matty McLain with Side Hustle Nation](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/28fffff8-98a4-11f0-b372-3f8c946db7dc/image/03f1a2849ef0f07af269683ec55ef4a5.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "1824: [Part 2] 5 Simple Steps to Get More Clients Than You Can Handle by Matty McLain with Side Hustle Nation")
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 1824:
Matty McLain breaks down proven ways to win more clients by emphasizing trust, visibility, and consistent effort. He highlights how freelancers and service providers can grow by nurturing their networks, showcasing expertise, and turning small steps into big opportunities.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.sidehustlenation.com/get-more-clients/
Quotes to ponder:
"Your best source of new business is almost always your existing network."
"Instead of trying to sell, focus on solving problems and creating value."
"Consistent action compounds over time, turning small efforts into meaningful growth."
Episode references:
The Go-Giver: https://www.amazon.com/Go-Giver-Little-Powerful-Business-Giving/dp/159184200X
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![1823: [Part 1] 5 Simple Steps to Get More Clients Than You Can Handle by Matty McLain with Side Hustle Nation](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/a09b69e0-98a3-11f0-8aa5-1fa06fcb6cf0/image/f6fa5da239c6c826f2216379c3578ca1.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "1823: [Part 1] 5 Simple Steps to Get More Clients Than You Can Handle by Matty McLain with Side Hustle Nation")
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 1823:
Matty McLain shares practical strategies for consistently attracting more clients by combining smart positioning, proactive outreach, and leveraging existing networks. His advice helps freelancers and service providers stand out, build trust, and create repeatable systems for sustainable client growth.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.sidehustlenation.com/get-more-clients/
Quotes to ponder:
"Clients are the lifeblood of any business."
"You need a way to stand out, to differentiate yourself from all the other providers out there."
"Often your best next customer is someone who’s already paid you."
Episode references:
Book Yourself Solid: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Yourself-Solid-Second-Edition/dp/0470643471
The Pumpkin Plan: https://www.amazon.com/Pumpkin-Plan-Strategy-Remarkable-Business/dp/1591844886
Getting Everything You Can Out of All You’ve Got: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Everything-You-Can-Youve/dp/0312284543
The Referral Engine: https://www.amazon.com/Referral-Engine-Teaching-Business-Customer/dp/1591844428
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Episode 1822:
Michael D. Levitt shares practical strategies to strengthen staff retention in unconventional workplaces by fostering trust, offering growth opportunities, and prioritizing well-being, helping leaders create stability even in unpredictable environments. He also outlines key digital marketing tactics, from leveraging analytics to embracing adaptability, so businesses can remain competitive and build stronger connections with their audiences.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/improving-staff-retention-in-unusual-work-environments AND https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/5-ways-to-maximize-your-digital-marketing-and-stay-ahead-of-the-game
Quotes to ponder:
"Retention is not simply about keeping people on the payroll, it’s about creating an environment where they want to stay."
"The digital landscape is always changing, but if you’re adaptive, you can stay relevant and visible to your customers."
"When leaders show genuine concern for the well-being of their employees, loyalty and commitment follow naturally."
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Episode 1821:
Christine Comaford explains how leaders can avoid costly mistakes during economic downturns by shifting from fear-driven decisions to strategies rooted in clarity, communication, and innovation. She emphasizes building trust, aligning teams, and fostering resilience so organizations can not only withstand challenges but emerge stronger.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://smarttribesinstitute.com/the-4-crucial-mistakes-companies-make-during-downturns/
Quotes to ponder:
“People need safety, belonging, and mattering, especially during downturns.”
“When leaders don’t communicate, people fill in the blanks with fear.”
“Innovation is key to growth, even in tough times.”
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Episode 1820:
Brian Tracy explains five distinct leadership styles that can help inspire teams to achieve peak performance. By understanding how each style works and when to apply it, leaders can build trust, improve collaboration, and create an environment where people feel motivated to give their best.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.briantracy.com/blog/leadership-success/5-leadership-styles-to-inspire-peak-performance/
Quotes to ponder:
"Leadership is the ability to get extraordinary achievement from ordinary people."
"People are more likely to trust a leader who is honest and transparent with them."
"A democratic leader is someone who asks for input and considers feedback from their team before making a decision."
Episode references:
Emotional Intelligence: https://www.amazon.com/Emotional-Intelligence-Matter-More-Than/dp/055380491X
Primal Leadership: https://www.amazon.com/Primal-Leadership-Learning-Emotional-Intelligence/dp/1591391849
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Episode 1819:
Mike Smerklo explores the constant challenge leaders face in deciding where their time is best spent, especially when everything feels urgent and important. He shares practical strategies for clarifying priorities, balancing vision with execution, and ensuring time aligns with the highest-value activities that drive long-term success.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.mikesmerklo.com/i-am-the-ceo-so-why-am-i-confused-about-how-i-should-spend-my-time/
Quotes to ponder:
"Being the CEO of a growing company is both the best and worst job in the world."
"It is easy to feel like you are constantly reacting to the loudest voice or latest crisis, versus proactively focusing on what really matters."
"Your time is your most valuable resource, spend it wisely."
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Episode 1818:
Laura Stack explores the hidden danger of pursuing nonstop efficiency, how an obsession with continuous improvement can actually choke innovation and creativity. She shows why true progress requires balancing process optimization with flexibility and fresh thinking.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2014/01/overdoing-it-when-continuous-improvement-stifles-innovation/
Quotes to ponder:
"Too much emphasis on efficiency can cause you to miss opportunities for real growth."
"If you spend all your time refining, you may end up polishing the wrong thing."
"Sometimes innovation requires stepping away from established processes to take risks."
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![1817: [Part 2] The Ten Worst Things You Can Do In A Negotiation by James Altucher on How to Improve Negotiating Ability](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/9e3d6b58-9263-11f0-bac8-73b855ab24a5/image/e88a6032d1a7eb139ec4ff72044f1c31.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "1817: [Part 2] The Ten Worst Things You Can Do In A Negotiation by James Altucher on How to Improve Negotiating Ability")
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Episode 1817:
James Altucher reveals the subtle mistakes that can sabotage even the most promising negotiation, from letting emotions take over to failing to walk away when necessary. His insights show how small shifts in mindset and preparation can turn potential losses into opportunities for stronger deals and healthier relationships.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/the-ten-worst-things-you-can-do-in-a-negotiation/
Quotes to ponder:
"Never negotiate when you are desperate."
"If you don’t listen, you have no idea what the other person actually wants."
"Always be willing to walk away. This is your biggest power in any negotiation."
Episode references:
Getting to Yes: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Yes-Negotiating-Agreement-Without/dp/0143118757
Never Split the Difference: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Split-Difference-Negotiating-Depended/dp/0062407805
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![1816: [Part 1] The Ten Worst Things You Can Do In A Negotiation by James Altucher on Self-Awareness and Restraint](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/3e017de2-9263-11f0-9eb2-0363eccc6539/image/2e7d3c88260f8ce6f187dd1aa1db9e19.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "1816: [Part 1] The Ten Worst Things You Can Do In A Negotiation by James Altucher on Self-Awareness and Restraint")
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Episode 1816:
James Altucher highlights common negotiation mistakes that can sabotage even the best opportunities, from overtalking and showing desperation to failing to walk away when needed. His insights reveal how self-awareness and restraint can turn difficult conversations into powerful outcomes.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/the-ten-worst-things-you-can-do-in-a-negotiation/
Quotes to ponder:
"Silence is the strongest weapon in a negotiation."
"If you need the deal, you will lose."
"Always be ready to walk away."
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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 1815:
Ryan H. Law explores the science-backed benefits of two simple lifestyle shifts - taking short naps and working at a standing desk. He highlights how these habits can boost energy, sharpen focus, and support long-term health while offering practical advice for making them part of a daily routine.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanhlaw.com/naps/ AND https://ryanhlaw.com/standing-desk/
Quotes to ponder:
"Even a short nap of 10 to 20 minutes can give you a burst of alertness and improved performance."
"A standing desk can help reduce back pain, improve mood and energy, and may even help you live longer."
"Start by standing for 30 minutes at a time, a few times a day, and gradually increase as your body adjusts."
Episode references:
Deskbound: Standing Up to a Sitting World: https://www.amazon.com/Deskbound-Standing-Up-Sitting-World/dp/1628600586
Why We Sleep: https://www.amazon.com/Why-We-Sleep-Unlocking-Dreams/dp/1501144316
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Episode 1814:
Brandt Smith highlights how cultivating authentic professional relationships can safeguard your career against uncertainty. By emphasizing generosity and trust over self-promotion, he shows how strong connections create both opportunity and long-term job security.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/network-your-way-to-job-security/
Quotes to ponder:
"Networking is about being generous, about helping other people make connections and solve problems."
"The more people you know, and the more people who know you, the more secure you’ll be in your career."
"Good networking is about relationships, not transactions."
Episode references:
The Start-Up of You: https://www.amazon.com/Start-Up-You-Transform-Your-Future/dp/0307888908
Never Eat Alone: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Eat-Alone-Expanded-Updated/dp/0385346654
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Episode 1813:
Margo Aaron examines how the stories we tell about ourselves can trap us in limiting identities. She reveals how reframing your personal narrative opens the door to growth, connection, and the freedom to choose a new path forward.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.thatseemsimportant.com/entrepreneurship/tell-your-story/
Quotes to ponder:
"Stories are how we make sense of our lives. They’re how we connect with other people, how we decide what to do next."
"The story you tell about yourself is not who you are. It’s just a story."
"You get to decide what story you tell. And you can change it."
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Episode 1812:
Glen Allsopp lays out a simple yet powerful method for generating meaningful insights by deliberately creating space to think, capturing thoughts in writing, and revisiting them with intent. His approach is a refreshing reminder that the best ideas often come not from more input, but from disciplined reflection and personal clarity.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2009/05/10/generating-new-ideas-and-insights/
Quotes to ponder:
"Creativity and insight almost always come from persisting through the boredom of pondering the same idea for hours and hours."
"The mind is for having ideas, not holding them."
"Sometimes all it takes to generate a good idea is a quiet space and a blank sheet of paper."
Episode references:
Getting Things Done: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0143126563
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Episode 1811:
Jeff Cornwall highlights how effective communication in business is becoming a lost art, urging leaders to return to clarity, transparency, and trust-building dialogue. He also explores how expanding your dashboard beyond financial metrics to include people, culture, and customer impact can create a more balanced and sustainable view of business success. Together, these insights encourage leaders to strengthen relationships and decision-making by valuing both communication and holistic measurement.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drjeffcornwall.com/2022/02/16/the-lost-art-of-business-communication/ AND https://drjeffcornwall.com/2022/02/22/expand-your-dashboard/
Quotes to ponder:
“Without effective communication, trust cannot be built.”
“Over time, leaders have expanded the concept of the dashboard to include other non-financial measures that drive long-term value creation.”
“The dashboard has become an essential tool to help entrepreneurs manage the uncertainty of their business environment.”
Episode references:
The Balanced Scorecard: https://www.amazon.com/Balanced-Scorecard-Translating-Strategy-Action/dp/0875846513
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![1810: [Part 2] User Growth and Engagement: A Hacker Metric by Nir Eyal of Nir And Far on Work Performance](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/31618fe6-8a70-11f0-86dc-8327dd8f6dcc/image/1e1a56242b9864345f97292f247800f0.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "1810: [Part 2] User Growth and Engagement: A Hacker Metric by Nir Eyal of Nir And Far on Work Performance")
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Episode 1810:
Nir Eyal explains why focusing on a single "hacker metric" can dramatically improve performance and motivation. By measuring what truly matters and avoiding vanity metrics, we gain clarity, maintain momentum, and channel our energy into meaningful progress.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/never-take-your-eyes-off-this-hacker-metric/
Quotes to ponder:
"Knowing what to measure is the key to knowing what to do."
"Too many metrics are as bad as none at all."
"Focusing on the one number that matters most keeps us from getting lost in a sea of data."
Episode references:
The Lean Startup: https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Startup-Entrepreneurs-Continuous-Innovation/dp/0307887898
Lean Analytics: https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Analytics-Better-Startup-Faster/dp/1449335675
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![1809: [Part 1] User Growth and Engagement: A Hacker Metric by Nir Eyal of NirAndFar on Business Decisions](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/975bbe22-89b5-11f0-b9a2-7b640bbe3e38/image/3cdf6fbc83f3dd8317d8c957724dddf2.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "1809: [Part 1] User Growth and Engagement: A Hacker Metric by Nir Eyal of NirAndFar on Business Decisions")
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Episode 1809:
Nir Eyal explains how focusing on the wrong success metrics can sabotage long-term growth, showing why retention is far more critical than acquisition. By shifting attention to what truly drives lasting engagement, he reveals how businesses and individuals can make better decisions that sustain momentum over time.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/never-take-your-eyes-off-this-hacker-metric/
Quotes to ponder:
“Acquisition brings people in the door, but retention keeps them from leaving.”
“Chasing growth without retention is like filling a leaky bucket.”
“Retention is the core metric that determines if your product becomes a habit.”
Episode references:
Hooked: https://www.amazon.com/Hooked-How-Build-Habit-Forming-Products/dp/1591847788
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Episode 1808:
Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock clarify how the IRS distinguishes between willful tax fraud and unintentional negligence, emphasizing that intent is the deciding factor. They outline the serious consequences of fraud compared to the penalties for honest mistakes, helping readers better understand how to avoid costly missteps when filing taxes.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/willful-tax-fraud-unintentional-negligence/
Quotes to ponder:
"Fraud requires an intentional act."
"The difference between willful tax fraud and unintentional negligence comes down to intent."
"Negligence may lead to penalties and interest, but fraud can result in criminal charges."
Episode references:
Internal Revenue Service - Taxpayer Rights: https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights
IRS - Accuracy-Related Penalty: https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc306
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Episode 1807:
Jeff Goins explains why the most effective marketing strategy isn’t about chasing trends but about consistently earning trust through authenticity and generosity. He shows how building meaningful connections, sharing valuable work, and focusing on people over tactics creates lasting impact and loyal supporters.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://goinswriter.com/best-marketing-strategy/
Quotes to ponder:
“The best marketing strategy is to care.”
“Marketing is not about getting attention. It’s about earning trust.”
“When you care, people feel it. And when they feel it, they respond.”
Episode references:
Tribes: https://www.amazon.com/Tribes-We-Need-You-Lead/dp/1591842336
Permission Marketing: https://www.amazon.com/Permission-Marketing-Turning-Strangers-Customers/dp/0684856360
The Icarus Deception: https://www.amazon.com/Icarus-Deception-Things-Really-Matter/dp/1591846072
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Episode 1806:
Jay Egger highlights how waiting for the perfect time to begin a side hustle only leads to missed opportunities, showing that momentum is built through immediate, consistent effort. His insights emphasize turning small actions into long-term gains and overcoming the trap of delay.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://moneyminiblog.com/make-money/time-for-side-hustle/
Quotes to ponder:
"There will never be a perfect time to start something new."
"If you wait until everything is perfect, you’ll never get started."
"Progress comes from consistency, not from waiting for the stars to align."
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This piece was awesome!
great episode. keep it coming please.