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 2704: Kathleen Coxwell's guide "7 Ways You May Be Leaving Money on the Table When You Retire" offers essential strategies to ensure you're maximizing your retirement savings. Discover how to optimize your Social Security benefits, manage investments wisely, and avoid common pitfalls that can reduce your financial security in retirement. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/leaving-money-on-the-table-when-you-retire/ Quotes to ponder: "Surprisingly though, many retirees and soon to be retirees overlook not just hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but hundreds of thousands in money that could be put toward retirement expenses." "By claiming Social Security at the earliest possible date, many people are leaving a substantial amount of money behind because the longer you wait, the greater the benefits become." "Your home is a valuable resource that really should be considered as part of your overall retirement plan." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2703: Discover why paying off your mortgage early might not be the financial boon you expect in Len Penzo's insightful analysis. Penzo, leveraging historical examples and economic trends, argues that in a high-inflation environment, maintaining a mortgage could be more advantageous than clearing it early. Explore this counterintuitive approach to personal finance management and how it might apply to your financial strategy. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://lenpenzo.com/blog/id25716-why-paying-off-the-mortgage-early-may-be-a-big-mistake-2.html Quotes to ponder: "Mortgage payments (became) no more than a nominal burden to (homeowners) - a consideration which dismayed the mortgage banks." Episode references: When Money Dies by Adam Fergusson: https://a.co/d/iJQCS7C Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2702: Chris from KeepThrifty.com shares his journey of trading the pursuit of financial freedom for a one-year mini-retirement to spend quality time with his children. Despite the financial setbacks, he values this period as an invaluable investment in family life, illustrating that sometimes, life's best returns come from the heart, not the bank. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.keepthrifty.com/trade-financial-freedom-mini-retirement/ Quotes to ponder: "Who doesn’t want financial freedom? Getting to the point that your passive income can cover your expenses buys you opportunities and time in a way that most people can’t imagine." "Despite the allure, I took an active step away from financial freedom this year, choosing to delay my freedom date by over 2 years." "Trading twenty-seven months of financial freedom for fourteen months of mini-retirement now seems like a pretty good deal when you put our life situation in context." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2701: Philip Taylor of PTMoney.com shares invaluable insights on becoming the master of your financial destiny. He emphasizes that personal finance expertise doesn't necessarily require formal qualifications like a CPA or CFP but instead advocates for self-education and proactive financial management tailored to your unique circumstances. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ptmoney.com/becoming-your-own-financial-expert/ Quotes to ponder: "I simply share my story with money - the good, the bad, and the ugly." "Only by becoming your expert can you appropriately decipher the financial headlines of the day." "The secret is three-fold as I see it: only you know the detailed ins and outs of your financial situation, no one cares more about your money than you, and all you need to do is keep learning and try new things!" Episode references: The Making of an Expert: https://hbr.org/2007/07/the-making-of-an-expert The Automatic Millionaire: https://www.amazon.com/Automatic-Millionaire-Powerful-One-Step-Finish/dp/0767923820 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2700: Explore strategic financial management through Kalen Bruce’s insightful guidance on taking control of your finances. Bruce emphasizes the importance of understanding cash flow, setting realistic goals, and investing wisely to build a prosperous future. His approach demystifies financial planning, making it accessible and actionable for anyone seeking to enhance their financial stability. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://moneyminiblog.com/budgeting/10-ways-to-take-control-of-your-finances/ Quotes to ponder: "Being in control of your finances helps you make valuable decisions regarding your finances and it helps you spend less than you earn." "Never make money your stress button; it can be your happy button." "Knowledge and patience are the keys to success." Episode references: Money Tracking Took: What We Recommend Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2699: Nick Maggiulli's article, "Your Greatest Asset is YOU," reveals that the most valuable financial asset you possess isn't your bank account or investments, but rather your human capital. When wisely managed and invested, this wealth of personal skills and knowledge can yield greater long-term financial returns than traditional investments. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ofdollarsanddata.com/your-greatest-asset-is-you/ Quotes to ponder: "Your human capital can be considered an asset that you use to earn money." "Each year you work reduces the present value of your human capital." "By saving and investing, you are rebuilding yourself as a financial asset equivalent that can provide you with income when you no longer work." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2698: Join Shirley from DaringLiving.com as she delves into the transformative journey of overcoming fear. In this enlightening episode, she shares practical steps and powerful insights that help shift the perspective on fear, offering ways to turn it from a crippling force into a guiding one. Discover how to embrace and harness your fears to lead a more courageous and fulfilling life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://daringliving.com/how-to-overcome-fear/ Quotes to ponder: "Fear is simply a feeling. When we feel fear, we create our definition and meaning about why we’re afraid." "Instead of defaulting to a negative thought/story for yourself, you can purposefully create deliberate, more empowering thoughts for that feeling." "If you feel afraid, you can justify your feeling by saying 'I am excited about this' instead. This will change your entire story and thoughts about the situation." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2697: Jen Hayes brings to light the modern dilemma of overspending due to the convenience of digital transactions in her article. She introduces Dave Ramsey's cash envelope system as a tactile and visual method to regain control over personal finances. By allocating specific amounts to different spending categories and only using cash, this method forces individuals to become more mindful and intentional with their purchases, ultimately helping them stick to their budgets. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jenhayes.me/cant-stick-to-a-budget-heres-the-solution/ Quotes to ponder: "Americans have lost our ability to 'feel' money. Society has made it far too easy for us to spend money on autopilot." "When we can physically see the money being taken away from us, we’re more mindful about the purchases we make." "If you can’t control your money, the lack of it will forever control you." Episode references: How to Budget With the Cash Envelope System By Dave Ramsey: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/envelope-system-explained Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 2696: Andy Hill from MarriageKidsAndMoney.com shares transformative strategies for achieving mortgage freedom in just five years on a $500,000 home. Through a blend of income-increasing tactics, budgeting mastery, and mindful spending, Hill outlines a roadmap to financial liberation that's both inspirational and practical. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/how-to-pay-off-your-mortgage-early-in-10-not-so-easy-steps Quotes to ponder: "It’s truly amazing how much STUFF we accumulated in our house that we didn’t need or didn’t bring us joy. Turn the trash into cash, right?" "The budget we create together is a 'zero-based budget'. This means that every dollar we have has a job." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 number: 2695 Andy Hill shares his triumphant journey to financial freedom in "We’re Mortgage Free! Our 10 Steps to Get a $500,000 Paid Off House in 5 Years" on MarriageKidsAndMoney.com. With a combination of strategic planning, family teamwork, and intentional living, Andy and his wife Nicole have not only freed themselves from the burden of a mortgage but have also laid down a legacy of debt-free living for their children, showcasing the power of financial independence and the joy it brings. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/how-to-pay-off-your-mortgage-early-in-10-not-so-easy-steps Quotes to ponder: "After years of focus and partnership with my wife Nicole, we’re mortgage-free and thrilled about the future ahead of us." "We were intentional, determined, and ready to do something incredible for our family." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices