When he takes the stage, John O'Leary delivers inspiring messages the way Adele delivers lyrics -- in a powerful voice, with lasting reverberations. O'Leary specializes in sharing ways that you can incorporate inspiration into everyday routines, giving you a more meaningful life.

In his Live Inspired podcast, he talks with Jinny Ditzler, author of " Your Best Year Yet," which O'Leary says helped change his life. The book offers practical steps that you can take to make meaningful advances in your personal and professional lives.

> Related: John O'Leary vlog | One thing that will make this your best year ever

Tim Maurer has long been a strong believer that personal finance is more personal than it is finance. Therefore, when we make strides in our personal development, it can ultimately help us in our big-picture financial planning. 

 

"It's entirely possible for a seemingly non-financial book to have a meaningful impact on your financial life, while the reverse is also true," he writes. 

Maurer, director of personal finance for the BAM ALLIANCE, has put together his personal top five books that have recently helped him improve various aspects of his life, with topics ranging from developing better eating habits to creating a life plan to finding unshakable inspiration.

 

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This podcast series from NPR features the fascinating stories of the innovators and entrepreneurs who are behind some of the most prominent businesses and brands.

From A(ngie's List) to Z(umba), this podcast shares a wide range of voices. Hear how Southwest Airlines went from a courtroom battle to a runway behemoth, how frustration led Warby Parker to changing the view of the eyewear industry, or how Drybar blew away the beauty market by focusing on one thing and being the best at it.

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You hear plenty about people who make -- and then break -- resolutions. But that doesn't mean all resolutions, including those dealing with your financial life, are doomed to fail. The key is to have a clear plan with simple steps to take.

For those who have resolved to get healthier financially, CNBC shares some ways to help you stay on course, including: focus on ONE goal, gather feedback and create automation when possible.

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