Optimal Finance Daily
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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 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 financial tips; it’s a daily companion that guides you towards financial freedom and savvy money management, all delivered with Diania's trademark enthusiasm and expertise.
Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...
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Episode 2694:
Laura Gariepy, through her collaboration with WomenWhoMoney.com, offers practical and actionable strategies for individuals dealing with the complexities of budgeting on a variable income. Her guidance illuminates a path toward financial stability by focusing on essential expenses, optimizing savings, and strategic account management, proving that with the right approach, managing fluctuating finances can lead to successful budgeting and peace of mind.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/budget-variable-income/
Quotes to ponder:
"Successful use of a budget gets your money working for you so you can attain your financial goals."
"Improperly managed variable income can lead to severe financial stress. However, by working through the steps in this article, you can find stability using a budget."
"Knowing both your real bottom line or threshold and your preferred bottom line will establish (and maintain) financial priorities."
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Episode 2693:
Jacob Lund Fisker of EarlyRetirementExtreme.com guides us through the delicate process of aligning your partner with your frugal lifestyle and early retirement dreams. He offers practical tips on leading by example, demonstrating the benefits through your actions, and smartly navigating conversations to inspire a mutual journey toward financial independence.
Read along with the original article(s) here: http://earlyretirementextreme.com/how-do-i-get-my-spouse-to-go-along-with-my-frugal-plans.html
Quotes to ponder:
"The first and most important thing is that a person sounds a whole lot smarter and more intelligent when you agree with what the person is saying."
"Most people (and especially children) will follow your example rather than your suggestions."
"If you want your spouse to adopt some change, another thing to try is to find something they are familiar with."
Episode references:
Tumbleweed Houses: https://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/
The concept of Freecycling: https://www.freecycle.org/
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Episode 2692:
Paula Pant from AffordAnything.com shares her journey from celebrating a 77% savings rate to realizing its limited value in achieving financial freedom. Through a detailed analysis, she illustrates the importance of distinguishing between savings for deferred spending and investing for wealth growth, urging readers to focus on investing rates over savings rates for true financial independence.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://affordanything.com/77-savings-rate-means-nothing/
Quotes to ponder:
"Savings is money that you’re setting aside for the future. Which means that “savings” is deferred spending."
"Savings won’t bring you financial freedom. Investing will."
“Investing,” on the other hand, allows you to supercharge your net worth."
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Episode 2691:
Mark Dennis of FinancialFinesse.com sheds light on the complexities of borrowing from your 401(k). He outlines the seductive ease of tapping into retirement savings for immediate financial needs but cautions against the long-term repercussions such actions may have on one's financial health and retirement planning. Dennis meticulously explores the benefits and pitfalls, emphasizing smarter alternatives to safeguard one’s financial future.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.financialfinesse.com/2017/10/23/is-it-ever-ok-to-borrow-from-your-401k/
Quotes to ponder:
"Plundering our retirement piggy banks can be tempting when a financial emergency arises, but this type of short-term fix may have some long-term consequences that are more expensive than we realize."
"Once you dip into your retirement stash and use it to relieve some type of financial pain, you can begin to slide down a slippery financial behavior slope."
"Bottom line: make sure you have carefully considered all other alternatives before you undo much of the hard work you have already invested in growing your retirement nest egg."
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Episode 2690:
Dr. Margaret Rutherford's enlightening article sheds light on the profound importance of apologies in strengthening marriages. By navigating through the common pitfalls of a bad apology, Rutherford emphasizes how genuine apologies foster integrity, build trust, and maintain mutual respect between partners, serving as a vital component for a healthy and enduring relationship.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drmargaretrutherford.com/three-vital-reasons-to-say-im-sorry-in-your-marriage/
Quotes to ponder:
"Love means you say you’re sorry and you mean it. Sincerely."
"Saying you’re sorry means that you recognize your behavior has an impact on those around you."
"It’s a gift that reflects your integrity."
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Episode 2689:
Dave Cahill's transformative journey with JackieBeck.com sheds light on overcoming $17,000 in student loan debt within a mere 54 days. Through extreme frugality and strategic planning, Cahill and his wife turned their financial desperation into liberation, offering valuable insights into the power of dedication and financial freedom.
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 methods may not be realistic in your circumstances. But don’t be afraid to bet on yourself and take reasonable risks to achieve debt freedom."
"In the darkest moments, our vision for a better future was what kept us moving forward."
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Episode 2688:
Lisa Harrison of MadMoneyMonster.com shares her journey of resisting lifestyle inflation, especially the allure of upgrading her living situation, which many find relatable. Through candid experiences, she underscores the importance of financial prudence, the power of minimalism, and the value of instilling good spending habits to secure a more stable and fulfilling future.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://madmoneymonster.com/2016/02/03/resisting-lifestyle-inflation/
Quotes to ponder:
"It’s worry that is born out of fear, fear that you can’t comfortably afford to do something."
"Committing to minimalism has given us focus and the ability to say NO to unnecessary clutter in our lives."
"My emotional, arbitrary indicators of wealth have nothing to do with what we need or what makes the best financial sense."
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Episode 2687:
Liz Davidson's transformation from money fear to financial savvy underscores a powerful journey of overcoming financial anxiety. Through a candid account on Frugalwoods.com, Davidson shares how eschewing debt, embracing frugality, and educating herself on personal finance turned her dread into confidence. This tale isn't just about saving pennies; it's a roadmap for anyone looking to wield money as a tool for life, rather than a source of fear.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.frugalwoods.com/2015/06/02/i-used-to-be-afraid-of-money-but-things-have-changed/
Quotes to ponder:
"I used to be afraid of money. Not in the sense that I thought it was going to jump out of a dark alley at me, more in the vein of fearing the unknown."
"I’m forced to confess that I was cheap-stupidly cheap and a far cry from strategically frugal."
"Money is only a tool, it will take you wherever you wish, but it won’t replace you as the driver."
Episode references:
Personal Finance For Dummies: https://a.co/d/cAMarbU
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Episode 2686:
J.D. Roth delves into the emotionally charged issue of whether or not to provide financial assistance to adult children, using a reader's personal dilemma as a springboard. Through insights from personal experiences and expert research, Roth explores the fine line between helping and enabling, offering thought-provoking perspectives on financial independence, responsibility, and the potential pitfalls of economic support.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.getrichslowly.org/giving-money-to-adult-children/
Quotes to ponder:
"The more dollars adult children receive, the fewer they accumulate, while those who are given fewer dollars accumulate more."
"Giving adult children financial support is, generally speaking, a bad idea."
"What is the effect of cash gifts that are knowingly ear-marked for consumption and the propping up of a certain lifestyle? We find that the giving of such gifts is the single most significant factor that explains lack of productivity among the adult children of the affluent."
Episode references:
The Millionaire Next Door: https://www.amazon.com/Millionaire-Next-Door-Surprising-Americas/dp/1589795474
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Episode 2685:
Chris Reining explores the nuanced relationship between money and happiness in "3 Ways to Hack Your Financial Happiness," offering insights from personal experience and research. By critiquing the common pursuit of wealth as a source of happiness and suggesting practical strategies for fostering genuine contentment, Reining illuminates the path to financial well-being that transcends mere accumulation.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisreining.com/3-ways-to-hack-your-financial-happiness/
Quotes to ponder:
"Many of us equate money to happiness. And it's true, sort of. Research has shown that happiness rises with income, but only up to $75,000."
"Buying stuff is the equivalent of getting drunk, it only temporarily soothes our unhappiness."
"Finding happiness comes from within, it's not something that can be purchased from Amazon."
Episode references:
Carl Jensen's speech, "FI-landia is a lie,": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=av4nIb5_AAE&ab_channel=EconoMeConference
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Episode 2684:
Kumiko of TheBudgetMom.com tackles the common dilemma of whether to close a credit card after paying it off. She weighs the pros, like avoiding temptation and minimizing fees, against the cons, such as the potential negative impact on your credit score. Her conclusion is nuanced, advocating for keeping the account open under certain conditions, especially when planning significant financial moves like buying a house.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.thebudgetmom.com/should-you-cancel-your-credit-card-after-paying-it-off/
Quotes to ponder:
"The number one reason most people choose to close their credit cards is to avoid temptation."
"If your credit card is charging you fees, you should think about closing it."
"Closing a credit card account can hurt you if you are attempting to get a mortgage."
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Episode 2683:
Discover how to transform your career into your most lucrative asset with ESI from ESIMoney.com. Learn the significance of recognizing and nurturing your career’s value, which can amount to millions of dollars over a lifetime. This insightful analysis not only outlines the financial aspect but also emphasizes the personal growth and satisfaction that come with career development.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://esimoney.com/two-huge-reasons-why-your-career-matters/
Quotes to ponder:
"Your career is your biggest financial asset, worth millions of dollars."
"If you take the right steps, you can make it worth millions more."
"Think it can’t be done? I shared previously that I’ve averaged over 8% per year for 25 years."
Episode references:
So Good They Can't Ignore You by Cal Newport: https://www.amazon.com/Good-They-Cant-Ignore-You/dp/1455509124
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Episode 2682:
Ana Gotter, in partnership with Healthline.com, demystifies the caffeine withdrawal process, providing a comprehensive look at its duration, symptoms, and management strategies. Gotter's insights into the physiological and psychological effects of caffeine withdrawal, backed by scientific studies, offer valuable guidance for those contemplating a break from caffeine, emphasizing genetic influences on our coffee cravings and how to navigate withdrawal with minimal discomfort.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-caffeine-withdrawal-last
Quotes to ponder:
"The duration of caffeine withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person, but caffeine withdrawal usually lasts at least two to nine days."
"Caffeine is a psychoactive stimulant that decreases drowsiness by blocking adenosine receptors. Adenosine is a neurotransmitter connected to the body’s sleep-wake processes."
"If you decide you want to decrease or quit caffeine, try these things to work through your withdrawal symptoms: Taper consumption instead of going cold turkey."
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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 2681:
James Lambridis of DebtMD.com guides readers through the intricacies of debt consolidation loans, revealing their potential as a tool for financial relief. By scrutinizing the prerequisites and pitfalls of such loans, Lambridis offers actionable insights for those looking to navigate their way out of debt, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and strategic financial planning.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.debtmd.com/blog/should-you-do-a-debt-consolidation-loan
Quotes to ponder:
"Deciding whether to do a debt consolidation loan boils down to two very simple things. Are you lowering your monthly payment and/or interest rate?"
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Episode 2680:
Dive into the often-unspoken realities of retirement with insights from Janet Berry-Johnson at NewRetirement.com. This episode reveals the surprising challenges retirees face, from identity crises and depression to unexpected financial strains and the importance of finding new purposes. Discover the critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of preparing for a fulfilling retirement beyond the financials.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/5-things-no-one-tells-you-about-retirement-that-you-need-to-know/
Quotes to ponder:
"Depression is common for many people, their identities have become wrapped up in what they do for a living. When their careers end, depression can become an issue."
"Most people report being happier than ever before - a majority of retirees (93%) feel their life is as good or better than it was before they retired."
Episode references:
"Work Longer, Live Healthier: The relationship between economic Activity, Health and Government Policy" from the Institute of Economic Affairs: https://iea.org.uk/in-the-media/press-release/retirement-causes-a-major-decline-in-physical-and-mental-health-new-resea
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Episode 2679:
In "10 Money Questions Every Couple Must Answer," Christina Browning of Our Rich Journey.com opens up about the personal journey to financial independence she's navigated with her spouse, Amon. She distills over fifteen years of collective wisdom into ten pivotal questions aimed at couples seeking to build a secure, financially transparent future together. Offering a blend of practical advice and profound insights, Christina's guide is an invaluable resource for partners at any stage of their relationship, encouraging open dialogue and mutual understanding around a topic that's often overlooked but crucial for lasting partnership harmony.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.ourrichjourney.com/post/10-money-questions-every-couple-must-answer
Quotes to ponder:
"Financial independence isn't just about how much you earn but how you align your financial decisions and goals as a couple."
"Understanding each other's financial habits and goals is essential in creating a harmonious partnership."
"The journey to financial freedom as a couple is paved with open conversations, mutual goals, and shared dreams."
Episode references:
Managing Money For Better and Worth: https://www.erickayoung.com/listen/managing-money-for-better-and-worth
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![2678: [Part 2] Conquer 3 Critical Early Retirement Challenges by Redefining Retirement by Chris Mamula of Can I Retire Yet](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/98d98c16-ec68-11ee-af70-1be6f3c3529e/image/0b39eb35c20fdbce407b2c44d0fa1b52.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "2678: [Part 2] Conquer 3 Critical Early Retirement Challenges by Redefining Retirement by Chris Mamula of Can I Retire Yet")
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 2678:
Chris Mamula challenges traditional retirement concepts in "Conquer 3 Critical Early Retirement Challenges by Redefining Retirement - Part 2", advocating for a personalized approach to retirement planning. By questioning societal norms and exploring flexible, meaningful work as part of retirement, Mamula provides insightful strategies for achieving early retirement without sacrificing personal fulfillment or financial security.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.caniretireyet.com/redefining-retirement/
Quotes to ponder:
"Ultimately, I realized that all three of the biggest challenges we faced had the same solution. We needed to redefine retirement on our terms."
"Traditional retirement planning can only take you so far. If you want to retire early, you need to develop a robust strategy with flexibility."
"A job should not define who or what you are. You should be able to leave today and it not change the overall purpose or direction of your life."
Episode references:
The Four Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss: https://a.co/d/ebqwn3n
Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl: https://a.co/d/ePqWdRN
48 Days To The Work You Love by Dan Miller: https://a.co/d/9WdfY5X
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![2677: [Part 1] Conquer 3 Critical Early Retirement Challenges by Redefining Retirement by Chris Mamula of Can I Retire Yet](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/1be84a9e-ec68-11ee-87e6-83ff8da75506/image/7ea334cd81fe0a85e2644a6c5a5886be.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress "2677: [Part 1] Conquer 3 Critical Early Retirement Challenges by Redefining Retirement by Chris Mamula of Can I Retire Yet")
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 2677:
Chris Mamula shares his journey towards early retirement, tackling the complexities beyond simple savings rates and withdrawal rules. Through his experience, Mamula highlights the nuanced challenges of medical insurance, the unpredictability of financial planning, and the quest for happiness and fulfillment beyond the workforce. His insightful reflections provide valuable lessons for those contemplating early retirement.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.caniretireyet.com/redefining-retirement/
Quotes to ponder:
"Getting any of these decisions wrong could legitimately derail our retirements."
"What do I want out of life? What will make me truly happy and fulfilled?"
Episode references:
The 4% Rule: https://www.prudential.com/financial-education/4-percent-rule-retirement
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1Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 2676:
Andy Hill of MarriageKidsAndMoney.com shares transformative insights from interviewing over 100 individuals who have successfully navigated out of debt and onto the path of wealth building. Hill's article, "Climb Out Of Massive Debt with These 10 Life-Changing Steps," encapsulates a strategic approach to achieving financial freedom. By committing to debt freedom, analyzing debts, creating a budget, and adopting a suitable debt destruction method, among other steps, readers are equipped with practical tools to embark on their journey toward financial independence.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/climb-out-of-massive-debt-with-these-10-life-changing-steps
Quotes to ponder:
"Like any other monumental moment in your life, declaring your intention is the first step toward making the impossible possible."
"When you start to answer questions like this for yourself, a fire starts to burn inside. Your slight motivation begins to turn into a passionate desire for change."
"The reason why most people fail is that they give up what they want most for what they want now."
Episode references:
Tiller: https://www.tillerhq.com/
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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 2675:
Nick Maggiulli's insightful analysis in "The Goldilocks Zone of Personal Finance" invites readers to discover the balanced state of financial well-being, where neither scarcity nor excess dictates one's life. Drawing from personal anecdotes and scientific research, Maggiulli illustrates the stress associated with both ends of the financial spectrum, advocating for a middle ground that promotes security, motivation, and peace.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ofdollarsanddata.com/the-goldilocks-zone-of-personal-finance/
Quotes to ponder:
"For a subordinate animal, life is filled with a disproportionate share not only of physical stressors but psychological stressors as well - lack of control, predictability, and outlets for frustration."
"Becoming rich does not guarantee happiness. It is almost certain to impose the opposite condition - if not from the stresses and strains of protecting wealth, then from the guilt that inevitably accompanies its arrival."
Episode references:
Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers by Robert Sapolsky: https://a.co/d/0vLzVlB
The First National Bank of Dad by David Owen: https://a.co/d/3yWA293
How to Get Rich by Felix Dennis: https://a.co/d/hH6Sfyi
Rose Lounsbury: The Journey to Enough: https://youtu.be/iZMi46kQww8?si=c6IcExg4JIRNhPUJ&t=1
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I can understand both sides. On the one side, the majority of people who are good with money won't have a million dollars, and probably won't until they're in their 50s or later. That doesn't mean that their advice is worthless until they've made it. On the other side, plenty of people will give unsolicited advice on money while being terrible with it. I think what it comes down to is knowing who the advice is coming from.
I knew a guy who paid something around $800 per month who said he'd never be able to retire, and I believe him.
Thank you for helping people to improve their finacial literacy.
Some of the financial problems people face can be because of poor choices, but it's hard to deny the fact that people aren't making what they did a couple generations ago, and those generations encourage and put pressure on the future generations to live up to the same lifestyle.
This feels more like bragging than it does helpful advice.
This isn't a very good example. It is highly doubtful that a more expensive school will guarantee you a 50% pay increase for your first job. It would have been a better example to compare saving up for school for several years vs getting a loan and starting the career job sooner.
With a Roth, you're betting that you'll have a higher tax bracket in retirement and that taxes will be higher in the future. Considering that most of us on here should have high savings ratios and that we are at a historic low for taxes, that's a bet I'll make.
awesome post!
Can you really claim to be "self made" while inheriting a family business? To claim the majority of Forbes richest list are self made requires a very liberal definition.