DiscoverOptimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship
Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship

Author: Optimal Living Daily | Dan W.

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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...
1872 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 1871: Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock explore the nuanced pros and cons of employee loyalty in a booming job market. While long-term commitment can lead to job security, personal growth, and professional recognition, blind loyalty may hold you back financially and emotionally, especially in toxic or stagnant environments. Discover how to assess whether staying or moving on better serves your long-term goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/benefits-drawbacks-employee-loyalty/ Quotes to ponder: "Staying put with a company you've come to know and trust contributes to increased job security confidence." "Employees sometimes take their commitments to their current employers too far and get stuck in a career rut, affecting their productivity and growth." "At the end of the day, you have to consider how much you're gaining by remaining a loyal employee and how much your loyalty could be costing you."
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 1870: Alli Worthington explores how chronic busyness drains our peace, purpose, and presence, offering a clear-eyed guide to escape the cycle of constant striving. By confronting the lies that keep us overwhelmed, she empowers us to reclaim margin, intentionality, and joy in everyday life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://goinswriter.com/breaking-busy/ Quotes to ponder: "Busy is a drug that a lot of people are addicted to." "When we are always busy, we miss the most important moments of our lives." "I wasn't addicted to success. I was addicted to striving."
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 1869: Seth Godin explores the often-overlooked distinction between having attention and having influence, reminding us that building a platform is more powerful than simply chasing visibility. He explains why a loyal audience that trusts you outweighs a large one that merely notices you, offering a mindset shift for creators, marketers, and entrepreneurs who want to create lasting impact. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://seths.blog/2009/09/the-platform-vs-the-eyeballs/ Quotes to ponder: "Getting someone's attention doesn't mean you have a platform." "If you've got a platform, people will listen to what you say. If you've got attention, it's a good time to say something." "A platform is permission. It's a trusted relationship."
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 1868: Steve Pavlina breaks down a powerful quarterly planning method to help you stay aligned with your long-term vision while making meaningful short-term progress. This approach blends high-level goal setting with practical execution, ensuring each 90-day sprint becomes a focused and manageable unit of personal growth. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2004/10/quarterly-planning-time/ Quotes to ponder: "One quarter (90 days) is the perfect time horizon for goal setting and planning." "You can accomplish an amazing amount in a single quarter, and yet it's short enough to stay focused and avoid procrastination." "The quarterly structure helps you think long-term but act short-term."  
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 1867: Mike Smerklo reveals how he used hard-won leadership wisdom and decision-making frameworks from legends like Welch, Jobs, and Bezos to know when it was time to move on. His honest analysis makes a compelling case for why knowing when to step aside can be the most powerful move a leader makes. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.mikesmerklo.com/being-done-and-being-okay-with-it/ Quotes to ponder: "A leader with a compromised 'will' is dangerous. To be clear, there is nothing wrong with losing the will, it's only problematic if you don't recognize it and act accordingly." "The gap between what I was good at and what the company needed had become too large." "Done right, you can feel good both about being done and how the decision was made." Episode references: Steve Jobs' Stanford Commencement Address (2005): https://news.stanford.edu/2005/06/14/jobs-061505/  
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 1866: Jay Harrington shares how embracing remote work and building a virtual business rooted in personal values can unlock greater freedom, purpose, and connection to place. His experience living and working in Traverse City illustrates how intentional choices around career and lifestyle can lead to more fulfilling outcomes. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/how-to-run-a-virtual-business-from-anywhere-even-no-especially-from-traverse-city Quotes to ponder: "More than building a business, we're building a life." "Technology has eliminated the need to live where the work is, which means we can now live where we want and bring the work with us." "A virtual business can be both high-performing and high-quality-of-life-enhancing."  
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 1865: Jay Harrington lays out a compelling case for designing a virtual business that supports both professional ambitions and personal freedom, especially from places often overlooked, like Traverse City. His insights blend strategy with intentional living, offering a refreshing perspective for anyone seeking more autonomy, flexibility, and purpose in their work. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/how-to-run-a-virtual-business-from-anywhere-even-no-especially-from-traverse-city Quotes to ponder: "Work should support life, not the other way around." "The freedom to define success on your own terms is the greatest advantage of running a virtual business." "Running a virtual business allows you to untether your work from your location, and live wherever you want." Episode references: The 4-Hour Workweek: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357
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 1864: Joe Peters explains how cultivating creativity at work drives tangible business benefits, from increased innovation and faster problem-solving to stronger employee engagement and adaptability. By making space for creative expression, companies not only future-proof their teams but also create a more motivated and agile workforce. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.carlpullein.com/blog/5-ways-fostering-creativity-at-work-benefits-the-business/15/4/2020 Quotes to ponder: "Creativity in the workplace improves a team's ability to solve problems and innovate." "Employees who are allowed to be creative tend to be more engaged with their work." "A culture of creativity enables a company to adapt quickly to changes in the market." Episode references: The Innovator's DNA: https://www.amazon.com/Innovators-DNA-Mastering-Skills-Innovative/dp/1422134814  
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 1863: Isaac Morehouse challenges the traditional college narrative by reframing education as a personal branding story, encouraging individuals to craft a more compelling, authentic alternative that reflects initiative, skills, and real-world results. By exposing the crumbling value of degrees and the rise of self-driven learning, he empowers readers to take control of their trajectory and differentiate themselves in a noisy, competitive world. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://isaacmorehouse.com/2022/01/17/college-is-a-story-tell-a-better-one/ & https://isaacmorehouse.com/2022/02/11/no-degree-is-the-new-degree/ Quotes to ponder: "It's not that college is a lie. It's that it's a small and boring truth." "No degree is the new degree." "If you can't tell a better story than the degree, you probably won't beat it." Episode references: The End of College by Kevin Carey: https://www.amazon.com/End-College-Creating-Future-Learning/dp/1594632057 Thiel Fellowship: https://thielfellowship.org The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: https://www.amazon.com/Almanack-Naval-Ravikant-Wealth-Happiness/dp/1544514212    
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 1862: Christine Comaford outlines a blueprint for engaging millennial employees by shifting away from outdated management models and toward purpose-driven, strength-based cultures. Her insights reveal that millennials crave meaning, real-time feedback, and development, not ping-pong tables or perks, and organizations that adapt will unlock a powerful, often untapped, talent pool. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://smarttribesinstitute.com/got-millennials-heres-culture-need/ Quotes to ponder: "Organizations shouldn't ignore weaknesses. Rather, they should minimize weaknesses and maximize strengths." "Indifference is a company-killer." "Millennials don't want annual reviews, they want ongoing conversations."
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 1861: Margo Aaron explores the complex tension between making money and making an impact, challenging the false dichotomy that often forces entrepreneurs to choose between the two. With sharp insights and personal reflection, she encourages creators to question the cultural scripts that shape their ambitions and to redefine success on their own terms. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://www.thatseemsimportant.com/entrepreneurship/money-or-impact/⁠ Quotes to ponder: "Impact and money are not mutually exclusive, but they are often treated that way." "The business world rewards one kind of ambition, the kind that scales, dominates, and earns." "We have to stop pretending that just because something makes money it's bad, or that just because something helps people it can't." Episode references: Paul Jarvis' Company of One:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Company-One-Staying-Small-Business/dp/1328972356⁠ The War of Art:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026
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 1860: Laura Stack outlines five essential steps for effective delegation that empower team members and prevent leadership burnout. By learning how to lead from behind, managers can cultivate trust, free up mental space, and boost overall productivity. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2014/07/how-to-lead-by-stepping-back-five-steps-to-delegation/⁠ Quotes to ponder: "Letting go of control is one of the hardest things for a leader to do." "Delegation isn't abdication. It's a way of getting things done through others." "Leaders who refuse to delegate often find themselves overwhelmed and ineffective."
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 1859: Jen Hayes offers five practical strategies to reduce work-related stress without changing your job, using mindset shifts and habit tweaks that support better mental clarity, energy, and emotional balance. Her insights help listeners take back control of their time and well-being, even in a demanding work environment. Quotes to ponder: "Instead of focusing on how much you dislike your job, think about what you're grateful for." "Silence your notifications so you can focus more easily on your work and finish your tasks more quickly." "Prioritize getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night, and cut back on caffeine if needed." Episode references: The Miracle Morning:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Not-So-Obvious-Guaranteed-Transform/dp/0979019710⁠ Calm App:⁠ https://www.calm.com/⁠ Atomic Habits:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299
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 1858: Michelle Schroeder-Gardner reveals how she consistently earns over $50,000 a month through affiliate marketing, offering actionable tips that even beginners can apply. Learn how she strategically uses trust, relevance, and SEO to build sustainable passive income without overwhelming her audience or sounding salesy. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://www.makingsenseofcents.com/2016/06/affiliate-marketing-income.html⁠ Quotes to ponder: "The key to affiliate marketing is being honest and transparent with your readers." "It's all about being as genuine and helpful as possible." "Trust is incredibly important when it comes to affiliate marketing." Episode references: Bluehost:⁠ https://www.bluehost.com⁠ ShareaSale:⁠ https://www.shareasale.com
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 1857: Michael Levitt explores how remote teams can build strong, connected cultures without relying on physical office spaces. By emphasizing clear communication, intentional rituals, and shared values, leaders can foster engagement and belonging regardless of where employees work. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/how-to-cultivate-your-work-culture-without-having-an-actual-office⁠ Quotes to ponder: "Culture doesn't exist because of a water cooler. It exists because people are intentional about creating it." "Leadership isn't about the location, it's about the connection." "If you want a culture that thrives remotely, you have to build it consciously." Episode references: Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Radical-Candor-Kick-Ass-Without-Humanity/dp/1250103509⁠ Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Drive-Surprising-Truth-About-Motivates/dp/1594484805⁠
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 1856: Michael Mehlberg unpacks the power of simplicity in productivity and the emotional toll of relentless hustle. By cutting through complexity and guilt, he offers clear, actionable insights to help you stay focused, finish what matters, and protect your well-being from burnout. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://michaelmehlberg.com/blog/2018/5/21/project-management-solution-keep-it-simple-stupid⁠ AND⁠ https://michaelmehlberg.com/blog/2018/8/15/hustle-guilt⁠ Quotes to ponder: "Complexity is the enemy of execution." "Hustle is not bad. Guilt is not bad. But hustle guilt is a killer." "You don't have to suffer to succeed."
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 1855: Sam reveals how intentional morning habits can shape your mindset, energy, and productivity throughout the day. By adopting just a few of these purposeful practices, you can boost clarity, eliminate stress, and set the foundation for long-term success. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://www.marcandangel.com/2012/09/05/11-ways-successful-people-start-their-mornings/⁠ Quotes to ponder: "When you begin the day with clear purpose and a positive mindset, you gain the power to shape your own destiny." "Each morning is a brand new opportunity to become a happier, healthier version of yourself and to live a life filled with more potential and possibility." "Visualizing a successful day gives your mind a map to follow." Episode references: The Miracle Morning:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Not-So-Obvious-Guaranteed-Transform/dp/0979019710
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 1854: Laura shares practical guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs weighing the decision to keep a job while launching a business. Her thoughtful breakdown of financial, emotional, and logistical factors helps readers make informed choices that reduce stress and build confidence during the transition to self-employment. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://womenwhomoney.com/work-full-or-part-time-while-building-business/⁠ Quotes to ponder: "Sometimes, staying in your job longer than anticipated may be the best move for you and your family." "If you're stressed about finances or don't have enough saved, consider working part-time instead of quitting your job altogether." "You may find you enjoy the work you do during the day and like the idea of building your business on the side." Episode references: U.S. Department of Labor COBRA Information:⁠ https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra
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 1853: Laura shares actionable advice for maintaining full or part-time employment while launching a business, offering a smart path to reduce financial stress and gain valuable experience. Her guidance empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to build with intention, stability, and long-term success in mind. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://womenwhomoney.com/work-full-or-part-time-while-building-business/⁠ Quotes to ponder: "Working a day job can also give you the confidence to make better business decisions because you aren't operating from a place of financial desperation." "Your paycheck provides money to pay your bills, cover healthcare costs, and contribute to your retirement account while you build your business." "You may need to give up some social time, TV, or other hobbies to free up hours to work on your business." Episode references: The Lean Startup:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Startup-Entrepreneurs-Continuous-Innovation/dp/0307887898
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 1852: Lisa H shares practical insights into how recognizing and adapting to different personality types can elevate your communication and business success. By tuning into others' natural preferences, you can build stronger relationships, reduce friction, and lead more effectively. Read along with the original article(s) here:⁠ https://digtofly.com/how-to-do-business-with-different-personality-types/⁠ Quotes to ponder: "By understanding the personalities of the people around you, you can tailor your communication style so they feel heard and understood." "You can be yourself, but by being a more aware version of yourself, you can connect on a deeper level." "The key is to adjust how you interact so that the other person can understand you better." Episode references: The 5 Love Languages:⁠ https://www.5lovelanguages.com/⁠ StrengthsFinder 2.0:⁠ https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/strengthsfinder.aspx⁠ Quiet by Susan Cain:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Quiet-Power-Introverts-World-Talking/dp/0307352153
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Comments (2)

Sophie G.

This piece was awesome!

Aug 20th
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Ed Ed

great episode. keep it coming please.

Dec 13th
Reply