Dollars and Sense: Creating Your Fulfilled Life: Recent Episodes
Nicole Romito
Welcome to Dollars and Sense: Creating Your Fulfilled Life with Nicole Romito a Partner at Private Vista. In this podcast, we combine our years of personal and professional experiences with those of our guests to help you create the life you imagine. We believe your Private Vista encompasses your financial and personal goals. Join us on this journey as we enlighten and empower you to align your wealth with your life’s passions and goals
Navigating the complexities of estate planning can feel overwhelming, and many of us are uncertain about how to initiate this crucial conversation with our families
But don’t let your fears of the unknown stop you from planning this important piece of your legacy.
Join guest Lindsey Markus, Asset Protection Attorney and Shareholder Principal at Chuhak & Tecson, P.C. as she shares tips for navigating hard conversations around estate planning. Through personal anecdotes and professional guidance, learn how to guide your loved ones to be well-prepared and honor your wishes.
Nicole and Lindsey discuss:
- The complexities of estate planning in blended families and first marriages
- Equitable distribution vs equal distribution
- Strategies to prevent family conflicts when estate planning
- The importance of ongoing review and updates in estate plans
- And more
Resources:
- A Gift For The Future by Lindsey Paige Markus
- How Can Donor Advised Funds Be Used For Estate Planning With Sean Julian (Ep. 27)
- Action Steps After Loss With Delaney Orozco (Ep. 45)
- How to Prepare for the Death of a Loved One With Carrie Shoener (Ep. 46)
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Lindsey Markus:
- LinkedIn: Lindsey Markus
- Chuhak & Tecson
About our Guest:
Lindsey Paige Markus is a licensed attorney in the state of Illinois, Florida, and New York. Lindsey concentrates in the areas of estate planning, asset protection, wealth transfers, and taxation. Lindsey works with business owners and families to formulate succession plans, advise in wealth preservation and various aspects of gift and estate taxation.
Lindsey is also a collaborative law fellow and consults on the estate planning and estate tax implications associated with marriage and divorce.
Passionate about educating clients and advisors, Lindsey has published more than 30 articles. In addition, Lindsey speaks regularly on estate planning, wealth protection, corporate and non-profit issues to groups and through a variety of media appearances.
Have you heard of the 529 plan?
It could be your new key to unlocking a brighter future for your kids while being financially efficient.
Join Nicole Romito as she and her colleague, Colleen Dwyer share the essentials of 529 plans, the tax advantages they offer, and how they can be an integral part of securing the educational futures of your children or grandchildren. Follow along to learn who can contribute, what expenses qualify, and the benefits of starting early.
Nicole and Colleen discuss:
- What a 529 plan is and how the money invested in it can be used
- Differences between state-specific plans and strategic decisions
- Who and what qualifies for a 529 plan
- The tax and financial benefits of a 529 plan and how to set them up properly
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Colleen Dwyer:
- LinkedIn: Colleen Dwyer
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
About Our Guest:
Colleen Dwyer’s financial services career began in 2018. As a financial advisor at Private Vista, she develops trusted relationships with clients and collaborates to build a plan that creates financial confidence and independence. She enjoys working with a dedicated and experienced team to deliver personal and critical advice and service, so her clients can be successful both financially and personally.
Colleen loves to spend quality time with her friends and family, and actively participate in her community. She lives with her husband in Lincoln Park and enjoys all the city has to offer – frequent bike rides and trying new restaurants. When not in Chicago, she spends time in Michigan and the western suburbs visiting family. Colleen also loves to travel and looks forward to checking places off her bucket list when she can.
Are you going through a divorce and need some financial wisdom?
Recently Nicole Romito was a guest on The Divorce and Beyond Podcast with Susan Guthrie. Today’s episode features a replay of an insightful conversation that delves into complex financial issues during and after divorce. Gain insights on matters that arise during divorce – including whether or not to keep the house, how to find hidden assets, and the importance of having an advisor as part of your divorce team.
Learn essential tips to avoid costly mistakes and gain a deeper understanding of financial planning in the context of divorce.
Topics include but are not limited to:
- The role of a financial advisor in the early stages of a divorce
- Tax implications and true walkaway values from investments
- Complexities of dividing retirement plans, pensions, 401(k)s, and other assets
- Navigating executive compensation and ensuring a fair division
- And more
Resources:
- Expensive Mistakes Made in Complex Property Division Cases with Divorce Financial Professional Nicole Romito on The Divorce and Beyond Podcast #308
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Susan Guthrie:
- SusaneGuthrie.com
- The Divorce & Beyond Podcast
- LinkedIn: Susan Guthrie
- Facebook: Susan Guthrie
- Instagram: Susan Guthrie
- Youtube: Susan Guthrie
About Susan Guthrie:
Susan Guthrie, a renowned figure in Family Law and Mediation, has guided individuals and families through separation and divorce for 32 years. She recently co-founded the Mosten Guthrie Academy with mediation expert Forrest “Woody” Mosten, offering cutting-edge training for legal and mediation professionals.
As Chair-Elect of the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution, Susan is poised to lead the Section in the upcoming bar year. Internationally recognized for her expertise in online mediation and AI in law, she has trained over 25,000 professionals worldwide, including programs for ABA, ADRIC, and NADN.
Recipient of the 2020 L. Randolph Lowry Award from the Southern California Mediation Association, Susan also serves on the Executive Committee of the Online Mediation Training Task Force. Additionally, she hosts two acclaimed podcasts, The Divorce & Beyond® Podcast and “The Make Money Mediating Podcast”.
Jumping into managing your finances can be overwhelming, especially straight out of college.
But don’t worry, this week on Dollar$ and $ense we are replaying a popular episode that includes an insightful conversation about how young adults can build healthy financial habits.
Join Nicole Romito as she chats with Carrie Shoener (nee Mangan) about the importance of saving and investing, tips for maximizing employer contributions to a 401(k), and diversifying retirement savings across different accounts.
Gain insight into:
- 401(k)s, including contribution levels, employer matching, and pre-tax deductions
- The top 3 tips for getting started with investing
- Rules of thumb for housing costs
- Target Date Funds and how they may help you diversify your portfolio with less risk
- The importance of having an emergency fund
- And more!
Resource:
- How to Prepare for the Death of a Loved One With Carrie Shoener (Ep. 46)
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- nromito@myprivatevista.com
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Carrie Shoener:
- LinkedIn: Carrie Shoener
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
About Our Guest:
Carrie Shoener is an advisor at Private Vista LLC. Her previous work as a high school teacher emphasized how important it is to build strong relationships as the cornerstone of one’s career. That same principle guides her work as an advisor, where she is able to continue helping people solve problems and make empowered decisions about their futures. Carrie sees her role as a trusted and empathetic source of financial education, and she enjoys working with clients to build up their knowledge and understanding of their options.
Reflecting on the loss of a loved one is an agonizing journey nobody willingly embarks on.
Yet, those who take proactive steps to brace themselves for such an inevitable occurrence are often spared the crippling weight of financial burden and the relentless onslaught of emotional upheaval in the aftermath.
Join Nicole Romito as she welcomes her esteemed colleague, Carrie Shoener, to discuss the critical but often overlooked topic of preparing for the death of a loved one. Despite the difficulty, it is essential to have these conversations to ensure that everything is in order and wishes are understood.
Learn key steps and best practices as Nicole and Carrie discuss:
- How to approach the end-of-life conversation with your loved ones
- Strategies for ensuring family members have access to essential documents and passwords
- The importance of having updated financial and estate planning documents
- Tips for sharing sensitive topics with family members to avoid future conflicts
- And more
Resources:
- How to add a Legacy Contact for your Apple ID
- Honoring Your Loved One’s Memory With Alexandra Koys (Ep. 19)
- Mastering Your Finances: Tips for Young Adults with Carrie Shoener (Ep. 21)
- Action Steps After Loss With Delaney Orozco (Ep. 45)
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Carrie Shoener:
- LinkedIn: Carrie Shoener
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
About Our Guest:
Carrie Shoener is an advisor at Private Vista LLC. Her previous work as a high school teacher emphasized how important it is to build strong relationships as the cornerstone of one’s career. That same principle guides her work as an advisor, where she is able to continue helping people solve problems and make empowered decisions about their futures. Carrie sees her role as a trusted and empathetic source of financial education, and she enjoys working with clients to build up their knowledge and understanding of their options.
Despite the certainty of life’s endpoint, many individuals find themselves unprepared for the emotional and financial implications when a loved one suddenly passes away.
Do you have the right people and processes in place?
Join Nicole Romito and guest Delaney Orozco for an insightful dive into the complexities surrounding the sudden death of a loved one, providing knowledge and compassion for those faced with this challenging situation. From establishing a “key person” to assist with the immediate steps to engaging in self-care practices and managing financial protocols, this episode offers support, guidance, and actionable tips for navigating through one of life’s most difficult times.
Nicole and Delaney discuss:
- The importance of identifying a “key person” for immediate and supportive action
- Developing practical checklists for financial and personal affairs
- The significance of self-care and seeking emotional support during the grieving process
- The different roles of importance such as trustees, executors, and powers of attorney
- And more
Resources:
- Why Women Belong in the Wealth Management Industry With Delaney Orozco and Stephanie Nanney (Ep. 15)
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Power of attorney
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Trustee
- When a loved one dies and debt collectors come calling
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Delaney Orozco:
- LinkedIn: Delaney Orozco
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
About Our Guest:
Delaney Orozco, CFP®, began in the financial services industry in 2015 as a service advisor. Throughout her career, she has focused on finding the intersection between the day-to-day processes of the financial world and bigger-picture planning, with the goal of assisting her clients in achieving their private vista. Delaney also has a deep passion for developing guides for her clients, helping them navigate the psychology behind finance and the numbers they see on the page. Her experience as a collegiate athlete has equipped her with the work ethic and dedication necessary to perform at a high level, which she hopes to offer her clients.
Ever wondered how your credit score affects your life beyond loans and credit cards?
Join Nicole Romito alongside relationship banker at Wintrust Bank, Kenneth Ashford for a deep dive into the far-reaching effects of credit. From the basics of starting your credit journey to advanced strategies for maximizing your score, Kenneth sheds light on the critical role credit plays in financial health and decision-making. Follow along for a comprehensive overview, essential for anyone looking to enhance their financial literacy and navigate the credit landscape effectively.
Nicole and Kenneth discuss:
- The importance of establishing a healthy credit foundation early on
- Key components that impact your credit score and tips on how to improve it
- Common myths about credit and how to avoid misuse
- Real-life implications of credit scores on renting apartments, securing loans, and more
Resources:
- Annual Credit Report
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Kenneth Ashford:
- Wintrust Bank
- LinkedIn: Kenneth Ashford
- Email: kashford@wintrust.com
About Our Guest:
Kenneth Ashford is currently a relationship banker and officer at Wintrust Bank. However, his professional journey spans over four decades, predominantly in customer service roles, showcasing his extensive background in the field.
In this final installment of this two-part series, host Nicole Romito and guest Matt Parenti delve into executive compensation, providing valuable insights for navigating this complex realm. They discuss essential strategies for maximizing compensation plans, minimizing risk, addressing tax implications, and integrating these elements into long-term financial planning to achieve personal goals.
Nicole and Matt discuss:
- Strategies to maximize different executive compensation plans
- Techniques for reducing exposure in equity and share investments
- Tax implications related to various compensation components
- Aligning executive compensation with long-term financial planning and charitable giving
- And more
Resources:
- Strategies for Maximizing Executive Compensation with Matt Parenti – Part One (Ep. 42)
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Matt Parenti:
- Private Vista – Matt Parenti
- LinkedIn: Matt Parenti
About Matt Parenti:
Matt Parenti is a seasoned financial planner specializing in assisting corporate executives, startup entrepreneurs, and business owners. With a focus on legacy planning, Matt ensures his clients’ financial security and longevity. He is deeply committed to building meaningful relationships, both professionally and personally. As Chair of the Growth & Marketing Committee at his firm, he emphasizes the importance of the “Private Vista Experience” for clients and colleagues alike. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Consumer Economics and a Minor in International Studies from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, along with a Master’s Degree in Finance from the University of Notre Dame.
Outside of work, Matt treasures time with family and friends, enjoys outdoor activities, and seeks to share his knowledge through mentorship and teaching.
Are you a corporate executive navigating the complexities of executive compensation?
Follow along in this installment as Nicole Romito is joined by Matt Parenti a fellow partner at Private Vista. Learn the ABCs of executive compensation and how to maximize your compensation plans for financial success and security in today’s ever-evolving market landscape.
Nicole & Matt discuss:
- Different ways corporate executives are compensated
- Challenges and considerations faced by executives
- Managing company stock and deferred compensation plans as part of a financial strategy
- And more!
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Matt Parenti:
- Private Vista – Matt Parenti
- LinkedIn: Matt Parenti
About Matt Parenti:
Matt Parenti is a seasoned financial planner specializing in assisting corporate executives, startup entrepreneurs, and business owners. With a focus on legacy planning, Matt ensures his clients’ financial security and longevity. He is deeply committed to building meaningful relationships, both professionally and personally. As Chair of the Growth & Marketing Committee at his firm, he emphasizes the importance of the “Private Vista Experience” for clients and colleagues alike. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Consumer Economics and a Minor in International Studies from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, along with a Master’s Degree in Finance from the University of Notre Dame.
Outside of work, Matt treasures time with family and friends, enjoys outdoor activities, and seeks to share his knowledge through mentorship and teaching.
When thinking about your financial plan, are you focusing on the serious aspects and how adult the conversation is? Or are you adding in some humor to create a more fulfilling retirement
plan?
In this episode, Nicole Romito speaks with Julie Liss, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director at Hal Riney, on the importance of incorporating humor into financial strategies and focusing on present joy and fulfillment rather than solely retirement and financial numbers. They explore the importance of creativity, managing a busy schedule, remote work, community, and the freedom that wealth can bring.
Nicole and Julie discuss:
- The importance of humor and not taking financial life too seriously
- Why advisors and their clients should have discussions about the client’s life beyond careers and finances
- Redefining what retirement means beyond leaving the job
- How to balance a busy schedule with personal time for creativity
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Julie Liss:
- LinkedIn: Julie Liss
Are you grappling with the complexities of selling your business, unsure of where to start or how to navigate the process?
In this enlightening episode, Nicole is joined by seasoned professionals, Matthew Hammer and Dawn Mase from Wintrust Commercial Banking, to shed light on the intricacies of selling a business. Through their experiences and insights, they demystify the process and provide valuable advice to help business owners overcome different hurdles to successfully exit their business and leave it in the right hands.
Nicole, Matthew Hammer & Dawn Mase discuss:
- Different ways to exit your business
- Selling to strategic investors, financial investors, or through private sales
- Structuring the sale transaction
- Overcoming common pitfalls
- Key components of the sale transaction, ie earnouts, rollover equity, and working capital adjustments
- Continuing involvement post-sale
- And more
Resources:
- Preparing For The Sale of Your Business: Part 1 with George Karavattuveetil (Ep. 38)
- Preparing For The Sale of Your Business: Part 2 with Deanna Salo and Eric VanderPloeg (Ep. 39)
- Wintrust Commercial Banking
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- 312-831-4370
Connect with Matthew Hammer:
- 847-590-7042
- mhammer@wintrust.com
- LinkedIn: Matthew Hammer
About Matthew:
Matthew Hammer is a Group Senior Vice President & Division Manager in Wintrust’s Commercial Bank managing Chicago-based middle market privately held businesses. Matt has 21 years of commercial banking experience, including helping lead Wintrust’s growth since 2013 with diverse experience with manufacturing, distribution, and service companies.
Matt has a Bachelor’s Degree from Purdue University, Krannert School of Management with a focus in Finance and Marketing. Matt is an Evans Scholar alum and active in various leadership positions within the Western Golf Association and Purdue University Chapter. Before joining Wintrust in 2013, Matt worked for LaSalle Bank and its successor Bank of America for 10 years.
Connect with Dawn Mase:
- 847-590-7046
- dmase@wintrust.com
- LinkedIn: Dawn Mase
About Dawn Mase:
Dawn Mase is a Senior Vice President in Wintrust’s Commercial Bank where she serves as relationship manager identifying and developing new client relationships and providing comprehensive solutions to existing client relationships. Dawn has over 25 years of commercial banking experience in cash flow and collateralized lending, primarily to privately held companies covering a broad spectrum of industries. She has experience in many areas including financing, domestic and international treasury management, investment management, trade and FX, asset-based lending, equipment finance, derivatives as well as syndicated finance.
Dawn earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Illinois State University with a focus in finance. She has been actively involved in mentoring young bankers throughout her career. Prior to Wintrust, she worked for JPMorgan Chase within their capital markets group. She specialized in syndicated finance and private placements and was Series 7 licensed.
Whether you’re at the onset of selling your business or simply exploring your options, knowing what to look out for can help you make informed decisions.
In this episode, Nicole is joined by Deanna Salo Managing Principal with Cray Kaiser, and Eric Vanderploeg of Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella’s Litigation to share their wealth of knowledge and practical tips to guide you through the process.
Join us for an insightful discussion on the legal, tax, and financial considerations when preparing to sell your business.
Nicole, Eric & Deanna discuss:
- The importance of involving professionals early in the sale process.
- The critical role of corporate agreements.
- The importance of accurately valuing the business.
- Involving key employees to protect the value of the business.
- And more
Resources:
- Preparing For The Sale of Your Business: Part 1 with George Karavattuveetil (Ep. 38)
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Eric VanderPloeg:
- LinkedIn: Eric VanderPloeg
- Burke Law
Connect with Deanna Salo:
- LinkedIn: Deanna Salo
- Cray Kaiser
About Deanna:
Deanna Salo has been with Cray Kaiser for over 35 years, where she specializes in mergers, acquisitions, shareholder disputes, and ensuring strong agreements for companies. However, she emphasizes the personal impact of each engagement, viewing them as connections with individuals or families.
Starting at Cray Kaiser in 1986 after graduating from the University of Arizona, Deanna has grown alongside the firm, which values a people-centric approach. As a Principal since 2001 and Managing Principal since 2021, she provides assurance, strategic, and tax planning services, particularly focusing on closely held and family-owned businesses and nonprofits.
Deanna also leads Cray Kaiser’s relationship with DePaul University’s Entrepreneur and Family Business Council and is highly accessible to its members due to her dedication to their success.
About Eric:
Eric P. VanderPloeg is a partner at Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C. Mr. VanderPloeg is a member of the firm’s Automotive Franchise, Litigation, and Consumer Financial Services Litigation practice groups.
Eric started his career as a litigator, and he has handled an array of commercial matters in both state and federal court in several states and jurisdictions. In addition to handling disputes, Eric now also acts as general counsel to businesses in several industries, providing advice on legal matters, including contractual, employment, regulatory, and corporate governance matters.
In 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, Mr. VanderPloeg was named as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers®, an attorney rating service from Thompson Reuters.
So you’re ready to sell your business or have been thinking about selling for a while, now what?
In this two-part episode, Nicole speaks with George Karavattuveetil, President of Psyched, LLC, about how to prepare yourself to sell your business. George shares his 3-step process to help business owners get ready to sell. Nicole and George draw attention to the lack of understanding and preparation among business owners for the emotional impact of selling their business, and the shift in private equity firms’ interest in long-term views when purchasing businesses. They go on to emphasize the importance of managing emotions during the sale of a business, and the value of teamwork and professional advice during the transition.
Nicole and George discuss:
- Emotional and psychological aspects of preparing to sell a business
- Prioritizing goals and values when seeking a buyer
- Private equity firms’ interest in long-term views when purchasing businesses
- And more
Resources:
- Love’s Detour: Navigating Divorce With Beth McCormack and Jason Sposeep (EP. 28)
- Co-Parenting Strategies Amidst Divorce With Beth McCormack and Jason Sposeep – Part 2 (EP. 29)
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with George Karavattuveetil:
- LivePsyched.com
- LinkedIn: George Karavattuveetil
- George@psychedllc.com
About George Karavattuveetil:
George Karavattuveetil is the President of Psyched, LLC. His unique experience has provided him with opportunities to gain critical perspectives of employees and management, entry-level and executive, within union and non-union environments, and across nearly every industry and functional classification. His success has always been with people. George’s goal is to maximize individual and team performance. Not in comparison to others, but relative to what one is capable of.
There is a big part of the investing world that doesn’t get as much news as equity markets.
But it should.
In this installment of Dollar$ and $ense, Nicole is joined by Matt Bernardi from Bernardi Securities. Together, they demystify the municipal bond market, a key component in funding local infrastructure projects that are vital to our communities. Matt and Nicole expand on how today’s market has weathered the storm of the COVID-19 crisis and the role of stimulus funds in ensuring municipal stability. The discussion extends to the broader economic context, including consumer spending patterns and the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, to illustrate their impact on the bond market.
With this episode, you will gain insight into:
- The significance of the municipal bond market
- Resilience and adaptability of municipal credit during and after COVID-19
- How the Federal Reserve’s actions impact the municipal bond market
- Pension liabilities and the potential effects of quantitative tightening on bond portfolios
- And more
Resources:
- The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon
- Napoleon: A Biography by Frank McLynn
- LinkedIn: Steve Anastasiou
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- 312-831-4370
Connect with Matt Bernardi:
- Bernardi Securities
- LinkedIn: Matt Bernardi
- 312-281-2015
About Our Guest:
Matt Bernardi joined Bernardi Securities in August of 2013 after trading for 3 years at Chesapeake Partners, a hedge fund located in Baltimore, Maryland. Matt currently assists individuals, pension funds, banks, and other institutions regarding their municipal bond portfolios. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University in 2010 with a B.A. in history and economics minor. Matt currently holds the Series 7, 24, 27, 52, 53, 63, and 65 licenses, serves on the Union League Boys & Girls Club investment committee, and is past President of the Associate Board.
Divorce is an emotional time for both spouses, but it’s important not to let emotions control the process. How can you build the best team for your divorce?
In this episode, Nicole Romito speaks with Susan Guthrie, a family law attorney, about the intricacies of divorce. They emphasize the value of a collaborative approach over litigation and the importance of assembling a professional team, including attorneys, financial advisors, and mental health professionals. Susan advises listeners on how to select the right attorney, stressing the need for one who genuinely practices collaborative law. They discuss the significance of experience and mindset in professionals guiding the divorce process and debunk the misconception that collaborative divorce requires a friendly relationship between spouses. Their conversation highlights the benefits of collaborative and mediated divorces for all parties involved, especially children.
Nicole and Susan discuss:
- The need for emotional support before hiring an attorney
- The role of a divorce coach and a financial professional in managing emotions and making rational decisions
- The benefits associated with a well-rounded professional team
- The holistic approach to divorce which involves legal, emotional, and financial aspects
- Misconceptions about collaborative divorce, the importance of commitment to the process, and how to find an attorney committed to the collaborative process
- The importance of vetting professionals and asking the right questions
- And more
Resources:
- Divorce and Beyond
- Make Money Mediating
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Susan Guthrie:
- SusanGuthrie.com
- LinkedIn: Susan Guthrie
- Instagram: @susanguthrieesq
About Our Guest:
Susan Guthrie is a nationally recognized family law attorney. She had a successful practice in Connecticut for 32 years and now is a well-known, collaborative and mediation trainer. She aims to help other attorneys learn how to effectively help their clients choose a more productive and amicable way to divorce. She’s also the host of two podcasts, Divorce and Beyond, and Make Money Mediating.
The Secure Act 2.0 is ever-evolving and has brought up some important questions recently, so let’s go over them!
Laurie Kaplan, CPA, partner at Michael Silver, joins Nicole for her second time on the show to continue their discussion about the Secure Act 2.0. Laurie goes over what has been finalized in the act for 2023 and looks ahead to 2024 and 2025. She clears up confusion around various topics including the Required Minimum Distributions when inheriting an IRA, changes in retirement plans, the rules and implications of annuities and IRAs, and the importance of tax planning. Laurie also discusses the new Roth IRA rollover option, the penalty reduction for missed RMDs, and the benefits of having both Roth and traditional IRAs.
Laurie discusses:
- The Secure Act 2.0 provisions and potential impact on retirement plans
- What has been finalized in the act for 2023 and what we can anticipate for 2024 and 2025
- Changes to required minimum distributions, Roth IRA rollover option for 529 plans, and penalty reduction for missed RMDs
- Explanation of annuities and IRAs, including single life expectancy and joint annuity options
- Designation of beneficiaries for retirement plans and consequences of not having one or if the designated beneficiary is deceased or not updated
- Premiums and surcharges associated with Medicare based on adjusted gross income (AGI)
- And more
Resources:
- Highlighting The Key Changes In Secure Act 2.0 With Laurie Kaplan (Ep. 16)
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Laurie Kaplan:
- MichaelSilver.com
- Call: 847-982-0333
- LKaplan@MichaelSilver.com
- LinkedIn: Laurie Kaplan
About Our Guest:
Laurie Kaplan, CPA, has been serving as a trusted advisor to clients for over 25 years, expertly managing and addressing tax and accounting issues within various industries, including manufacturing and distribution, retail, restaurants, real estate, automobile dealerships, and professional service providers. Her background in both accounting and tax, as well as her consultative approach, allows her to partner with clients and develop innovative solutions to address their personal and business needs. She specializes in employee benefit plans, estate and gift tax, like-kind exchanges, and small business start-ups.
Estate planning is important for everyone, but why is it especially important for the sandwich generation?
In this episode, Nicole introduces fellow Private Vista colleague, Jeff Toner, CHFC®, RICP®, Partner at Private Vista, to talk about estate planning. While it’s important to get your documents in order before you need them, Nicole and Jeff point out that there are many layers to estate planning and discuss the impact it can have on multiple parts of our lives. They delve into the complexities of managing aging parents’ affairs, the importance of open communication within families, and the need for estate planning documents. Jeff emphasizes the benefits of proactive estate planning, including providing clarity for families, reducing tax burdens, and ensuring wealth preservation for future generations.
Nicole and Jeff go over:
- The importance of estate planning, especially for the sandwich generation
- The challenges that come with managing aging parents’ affairs and the reversal of roles
- Why estate planning isn’t just a checklist, it’s a lifelong process
- What key documents are needed for estate planning, in addition to a will
- The challenges faced by the sandwich generation in estate planning for aging parents and themselves
- An explanation of power of attorney, wills, trusts, and their importance in estate planning
- The various benefits of proactive estate planning, including control over decisions, educating and providing clarity for families, and tax reduction
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Jeff Toner:
- LinkedIn: Jeff Toner
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
About our Guest:
Jeff Toner, Partner at Private Vista, now almost 40 years into his career, has the luxury of looking backward and reflecting on the journey he has been on. Back in 1984, he didn’t know what a fiduciary was or what a financial planner did. What he did know was he wanted to help people with their finances and achieve their goals in life. He wanted to do it in a way that he wasn’t selling them a product but rather walking side by side with them as they moved toward their dreams. Jeff has been with them in moments of great joy and cried with them during their times of sadness. He has taught and educated them, but more importantly, he has been taught and learned from them as well.
The year-end holidays can be the most stressful time of the year, from family gatherings and tensions to tight deadlines at work.
But what if we told you they don’t have to be?
In this episode, Nicole speaks with professional development coach Brendan Cournane about stress management. They focus on managing the stress that comes with the holiday season and the pressures of closing business deals by year-end. Coach Brendan shares strategies for managing stress, such as practicing mindfulness, meditation, and curiosity. He also emphasizes the importance of open communication and taking pauses in conversations for reflection.
Brendan discusses:
- How to manage stress revolving around family and during year-end at work, in preparation for the holidays
- The benefits of practicing calming exercises like meditation and mindfulness
- How to approach challenging situations with curiosity
- How to communicate about pressures at work with family members
- Techniques for finding calmness and acceptance during the holidays
- Why silence is okay and the role it plays in healthy open communication
- How the ribbon method helps him through tough moments why harnessing happy memories
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Brendan Cournane:
- LinkedIn: Brendan Cournane
- CoachBrendan.com
- coach@coachbrendan.com
About our Guest:
Brendan Cournane has served as a partner in a national law firm and various roles in the public sector, including general counsel of the Illinois finance authority. He has seen the malaise and burnout effects of what happens when one’s core values do not align with one’s profession. As a recovering lawyer, he is now a professional development coach helping his clients understand why they do what they do in life, and he helps them align their core values with how they work and live a happier life. Brendan is a certified professional coach and leadership dynamic specialist, as well as a long-time practitioner of mindfulness and meditation, and is a firm believer that happiness is a present attitude, not a future condition.
Are you passionate about changing lives, uplifting those around you, and creating a better world? Join us in celebrating Giving Tuesday, a global movement to unleash the power of radical generosity. In this episode, Nicole Romito invites colleagues Lorena Lopez and Matt Currier. Taking a break from the usual financial topics, they shed light on …
How can you optimize your year-end financial planning? With the end of the year nearing, it’s a good idea to review our financial plans and look at what we have set up for the long-term. In this episode of Dollar$ and $ense, Jim Weil CFP®, CIMA®, managing partner at Private Vista, joins Nicole Romito to …
Are you prepared to face the digital phantoms lurking in your inbox? This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, arm yourself with knowledge. Just as we take precautions during Halloween, it’s essential to be vigilant about phishing attacks in the financial services sector. In this episode, Nicole speaks with Sarah Khan, Chief Information Security Officer for Hightower Advisors, …
Divorce can be a challenging journey for many, and it requires careful consideration and planning, especially during the holiday season. In this episode, Nicole Romito continues the conversation with family law attorneys Beth McCormack and Jason Sposeep. This time, they unravel the complexities of divorce, focusing on co-parenting during the holidays and financial considerations. Beth …
What are the best alternatives to litigation in divorce? Let’s ask family law attorneys. In this episode, Nicole Romito welcomes family law attorneys Beth McCormack and Jason Sposeep to talk about the different options that are available when considering divorce. They emphasize the importance of educating the public about alternative dispute resolution processes such as …
Did you know you can set up a Donor Advised Fund during your lifetime or as part of your estate planning? In this episode, Nicole is joined by Private Vista’s very own Sean Julian to discuss the concept of donor-advised funds (DAFs), which are charitable giving vehicles. Sean explains how DAFs work, the flexibility they …
Sometimes, the path to a fulfilling career is far from straightforward. In today’s episode, Nicole Romito from Private Vista dives into the career journey of Mahogany Person, an emerging talent in the field of financial advising. Mahogany began her professional life as a math teacher but transitioned into financial planning after personal experiences opened her … Continue reading Becoming a Financial Advisor with Mahogany Person (Ep. 26) →
Thinking about diving into the real estate market? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time buyer, this episode is your go-to guide for navigating today’s dynamic real estate landscape. In this episode, Nicole Romito chats with Melanie Everett, founder and managing broker of Melanie Everett and Company, an independent real estate brokerage firm. Nicole … Continue reading The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your First Home With Melanie Everett (Ep. 25) →
Purchasing annuities can be confusing, and on top of that, they’re often an emotional decision. In this episode, Nicole Romito breaks down annuities with Steve Merdinger, ChFC®, CFP®, Partner at Private Vista. They give an overview of points to consider and things to be aware of before purchasing them. Steve discusses: What fixed and variable … Continue reading Annuities 101 with Steve Merdinger (Ep. 24) →
You could build the best financial plan for your retirement, with enough money for trips and relaxing days for the rest of your life. But what will you do during your retirement? Playing golf and seeing family only takes so much time. In this episode, Nicole speaks with Sarah Newcomb, author, speaker and founder of … Continue reading Creating Meaning from Your Means with Sarah Newcomb (Ep. 23) →
Amidst these unprecedented times, a burning question arises: Should you maintain a diversified portfolio? In this episode, Nicole Romito and Bob Westrick, Partner at Private Vista, provide a mid-year market update for 2023. Together they tackle some of the pressing inquiries that have flooded their clients minds. From whether America is already in a recession … Continue reading 2023’s Mid Year Check In With Bob Westrick (Ep. 22) →
Navigating personal finances after college can be challenging for many young individuals who lack proper guidance on savings, investments, and managing their 401(k)s. What are some goals and rules they should follow for the long-term? In this episode, Nicole Romito sits down with Carrie Mangan, advisor at Private Vista, to talk about the topic of … Continue reading Mastering Your Finances: Tips for Young Adults with Carrie Mangan (Ep. 21) →
Let’s face it, Medicare plans are an alphabet soup. Let’s simplify them together.
In this episode, Nicole talks to Carly Rosswurm, the director of Medicare Solutions at Ash Brokerage, to clear the air about Medicare. With 17 years of experience in Medicare, Carly gives us an overview of the Medicare program and the different types of available plans, and a breakdown of the highest and lowest premiums of 2023. She also explains how you can determine if Medicare is the right insurance option for you when you should start planning to apply for Medicare, how the annual enrollment periods work, and a lot more!
Carly discusses:
- An overview of the Medicare program and the different types of plans
- When you should start doing your research and speak to a healthcare broker
- What she considers when determining if someone should stay with their employer’s insurance plan
- A breakdown of the lowest and highest Medicare premiums in 2023
- The circumstances when IRMAA charges can be appealed and what the process is like
- How the annual enrollment periods work
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Carly Rosswurm:
- Ash Brokerage
- LinkedIn: Ash Brokerage
- LinkedIn: Carly Rosswurm
- medicare@ashbrokerage.com
Losing a loved one is never easy. It’s a time of sadness and mourning, but it’s also a time to honor and celebrate their life. In fact, memorializing and honoring the legacy of loved ones is an important part of the grieving process.
In this episode, Nicole speaks with Alexandra Koys, founder & CEO of Lighten Arrangements, about creative ideas for honoring and celebrating the lives of those we’ve lost, from creating meaningful memorials to legacy planning and more.
Alexandra discusses:
- How to personalize your loved one’s memorial to reflect their personal, cultural, and spiritual identity.
- Why meaningful memorials are important for the grieving and healing process
- The importance of initiating conversations about memorials well ahead of time
- What to do if different family members cannot agree upon the ideal funeral ceremony
- Key trends relating to end-of-life planning in the U.S.
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Alexandra Koys:
- LinkedIn: Alexandra Koys
- LightenArrangements.com
About our Guest:
Alexandra Koys is the Founder & CEO of Lighten, a startup transforming the future of the funeral industry. Lighten’s guided planning platform empowers families to break away from somber, cookie-cutter funeral home offerings and plan uplifting life celebrations that represent their loved ones’ unique personal, cultural, and spiritual identities.
Studies have shown that people experience the same level of emotional pain when losing money as they do when experiencing physical pain. Therefore, managing emotions around finances is crucial for making sound investment decisions and achieving financial success.
In this episode, Nicole speaks with Will Howson, CFP®, CPFA about managing our emotions when discussing finances. Will highlights the significance of both traditional and behavioral finance in investment decisions, emphasizing the importance of education and sticking to an investment plan. He also discusses how positive emotions around finances can impact investment decisions and how to identify common biases such as loss aversion, recency bias, and analysis paralysis.
Will discusses:
- The difference between traditional finance and behavioral finance
- The importance of both education about investing and sticking to your investment plan
- How positive emotions around finances can interfere with investment decisions just as much as negative emotions
- What loss aversion, recency bias, and analysis paralysis are, and how to identify them in someone’s investment patterns
- Some of the common mistakes he helps their clients avoid
- And more
Resources:
- Everything You Need To Know About Private Vista With Nicole Romito (Ep. 1)
- DALBAR Quantitative Analysis of Investor Behavior (QAIB) Index
- DALBAR.com
- Vanguard Advisor® Alpha
- Investopedia: Loss Aversion
- Investopedia: Recency Bias
- Investopedia: Analysis Paralysis
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Will Howson:
- Linkedin: Will Howson
- MyPrivateVista.com: Will Howson
About our Guest:
Will Howson, CFP ®, CPFA is a financial advisor at My Private Vista, based in Chicago. After training at a large asset management firm on the East Coast, he returned home to Chicago as an advisor at a wealth management company, specializing in investment management, financial planning, and qualified plan consulting. Will’s impressive achievements include creating an educational curriculum for institutional and individual clients, showcasing his expertise and dedication to his clients’ success. He is passionate about helping people achieve their life goals and enjoys working with colleagues who share that same enthusiasm at Private Vista.
We’re back with another episode to break the glass ceiling and showcase the incredible achievements of women who are challenging the status quo and paving the way for future generations.
In this episode, Nicole continues the celebration of Women’s History Month with Laura Adams, Chief HR Officer for Jones Lang LaSalle. Laura shares her story of how she worked her way up into corporate America, the support she received from her peers and coworkers, how men can help women in the workplace take up the space they need, and how she encourages women to strive to be their best selves.
Laura discusses:
- The key skills she looks for in developing a leadership team
- How women can leverage their innate skills in the workplace
- How she coaches her colleagues and friends to not feel guilty about a work-life balance
- Why advocation is the biggest thing men can do to support their female colleagues
- What she and JLL have been doing to support women and the growth in their careers
- And more
Resources:
- Why Women Belong in the Wealth Management Industry With Delaney Orozco and Stephanie Nanney (Ep. 15)
- The CEO Test by Adam Bryant
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- info@myprivatevista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Laura Adams:
- JLL
- LinkedIn: Laura Adams
About our Guest:
Laura Adams is Chief HR Officer for Jones Lang LaSalle. Laura is a single mom who has pushed herself far in her career, transitioning from working for the University of Michigan to a corporate America with JLL. She passionately shares her story and helps other women achieve success in their careers.
Are you curious about the new regulations in the Secure Act 2.0 and how they could impact your retirement planning?
In this episode, Nicole and Laurie Kaplan, CPA, highlights the important changes in the Secure Act 2.0 that were released in late 2022. Laurie explains how these changed regulations affect investors.
Laurie discusses:
- A breakdown of the 10-year rule
- The new opportunities for IRA and retirement plan holders who are charitably inclined
- What the new regulations are for Roth 401(k) plans
- The ability to rollover assets from a 529 plan into a Roth IRA
- And more
Resources:
- Investopedia: SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022
- MichaelSilver: SECURE 2.0: Now It’s Law – What Individual Investors and Employers Need to Know
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Laurie Kaplan:
- MichaelSilver.com
- Call: 847-982-0333
- LinkedIn: Laurie Kaplan
About our Guest:
Laurie Kaplan, CPA, has been serving as a trusted advisor to clients for over 25 years, expertly managing and addressing tax and accounting issues within various industries, including manufacturing and distribution, retail, restaurants, real estate, automobile dealerships, and professional service providers. Her background in both accounting and tax, as well as her consultative approach, allows her to partner with clients and develop innovative solutions to address their personal and business needs. She specializes in employee benefit plans, estate and gift tax, like-kind exchanges, and small business start-ups.
Breaking the glass ceiling: Join us as we delve into the world of finance and showcase the incredible achievements of women who are challenging the status quo and paving the way for future generations.
In this episode, Nicole celebrates Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day with Delaney Orozco, CFP®, and Stephanie Nanney, CFP®, CPFA. Get ready to hear their inspiring conversation about why they believe wealth management is an awesome career choice for women.
Nicole, Delaney, and Stephanie discuss:
- Why the finance industry is a great career choice for women
- How the industry offers women a successful career and professional life and allows for flexibility to have a fulfilling personal life
- Why more women are joining the finance industry each year
- How their families and male colleagues have shown support throughout their careers
- Why they chose to work in the industry
- How My Private Vista creates a supportive and nurturing work environment
- And more
Resources:
- Women in Insurance & Financial Services (WIFS)
- Financial Women’s Association (FWA)
- Chicago Finance Exchange
- Women Investment Professionals (WIP) Chicago
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Delaney Orozco and Stephanie Nanney:
- LinkedIn: Delaney Orozco
- LinkedIn: Stephanie Nanney
About our Guests:
Delaney Orozco, CFP®, began in the financial services industry in 2015 as a service advisor. Throughout her career, she has focused on finding the intersection between the day-to-day processes of the financial world and bigger-picture planning, with the goal of assisting her clients in achieving their private vista. Delaney also has a deep passion for developing guides for her clients, helping them navigate the psychology behind finance and the numbers they see on the page. Her experience as a collegiate athlete has equipped her with the work ethic and dedication necessary to perform at a high level, which she hopes to offer her clients.
Having grown up around the financial services industry, Stephanie Nanney, CFP®, CPFA, knows the value of long-term relationships with clients and the work and reward that comes with helping those clients, and their families, achieve financial goals. Stephanie’s primary goal in helping clients is to listen to them and establish a genuine partnership, providing a strong foundation of financial knowledge that is crucial to achieving their goals. Ultimately, witnessing her clients achieve their Private Vista is the most rewarding aspect of her work.
Discover the Secrets of Fertility with Expert Allison K. Rodgers!
Are you longing to start a family but feeling uncertain about your next steps? This episode is for you! Join Nicole Romito as she sits down with renowned fertility doctor, Allison K. Rodgers. Get ready to be enlightened with all the ins and outs of fertility and the best options for starting your family.
Allison opens up about the optimal time for having children, the possibilities for those who want to start a family later in life, and how there’s more than one way to make your family-building dreams come true. With her expert knowledge and insight, you’ll leave this episode feeling empowered and confident in your journey toward parenthood.
Allison discusses:
- The inside scoop on what you need to know to assess your fertility potential
- The ideal time to start a family and what to consider
- The natural decline in fertility with age
- The multiple options available for individuals who want to start a family later in life
- Her inclusivity-focused book which educates young women on sexual health and education
- And more
Resources:
- https://www.fcionline.com/
- Chicago Coalition for Family Building
- We Need to Talk About Vaginas
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Allison K. Rodgers:
- Instagram: Dr. Allison K. Rodgers
- LinkedIn: Allison K. Rodgers, MD
About Allison:
Dr. Rodgers is board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and has been practicing medicine since 2004. She completed her residency at Case Western Reserve-Metrohealth Medical Center/Cleveland Clinic, followed by a fellowship at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Rodgers’ personal experiences with both secondary infertility and pregnancy loss have given her a unique insight into reproductive medicine, and she is well known for her compassionate and individualized patient care. She has published many original research articles in top medical journals on topics such as endometriosis, tubal factor infertility, in vitro fertilization, and donor sperm. Her special interests include in vitro fertilization, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, unexplained infertility, and premature ovarian insufficiency.
Marriage, divorce, a late spouse, and age can all affect social security benefits. There’s no simple equation for figuring out which benefit plan works best for you or when you should start taking your benefit, but a financial advisor can help guide you through the process.
We are back with another episode of Dollar$ and $ense: Creating Your Fulfilled Life with Nicole Romito. Learn from Mike McCabe, a colleague of Nicole’s at Private Vista, as he sits down with her to break down what you need to know about social security. Mike shares different scenarios that you should consider and explains how to best approach your social security benefits to maximize these benefits for your household.
Mike McCabe discusses:
- The different roles you are eligible to apply under for social security and the benefits of each
- What type of benefits are available and when you should consider applying for them
- The importance of knowing your situation when navigating the social security system
- How to determine when it’s right for you to take your social security benefits
- …and so much more!
Resources:
- SSA.gov
- Mary Beth Franklin on LinkedIn
- Maximizing Social Security Benefits by Mary Beth Franklin
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Mike McCabe:
- LinkedIn: Mike McCabe
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
About our Guest:
Mike McCabe, CFP®, CPA, is a partner at Private Vista LLC. Throughout Mike’s career in financial services, his primary focus has been assisting his clients successfully manage their financial lives so they can enjoy and flourish in their real lives. He has always dedicated himself to learning. Mike’s interest led him to become a CFP® and attain the Certified Pension Consultant (CPC) designation from the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries (ASPPA). Mike’s administrative roles with the firm include serving on the firm’s investment committee, helping with compliance, and mentoring the firm’s talented pool of younger advisors.
Talking about finances with your family can be a difficult discussion, but it doesn’t have to be.
In this episode, Nicole speaks with her colleague, Mary Beth McLean, MBA, CFP, about family wealth planning and having financial discussions with the next generation. Mary Beth shares a few ways to begin the conversation, that it’s ongoing and not a one-time thing, and that it’s never too late to start it.
Mary Beth and Nicole discuss:
- What family wealth planning is and why it’s important for you to participate in
- How having the conversation could alleviate some unintended consequences when both parents are gone
- How to have a conversation about finances with your children that doesn’t center around the numbers
- That it’s not a one-and-done type of conversation and why it’s ever-evolving
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Mary Beth McLean:
- LinkedIn: Mary Beth McLean
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
About our Guest:
Mary Beth McLean, CFP®, MBA, is a partner at Private Vista LLC. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Finance at St. Mary’s College Notre Dame, Magna cum Laude, and her Master of Business Administration at Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management. Mary thinks of herself as a financial caregiver. She devotes much of her current practice to working with women, often in transition, to take control of their financial matters. The most satisfying part of Mary’s profession is watching her clients become empowered. Mary Beth McLean helps her clients conceive their future, relieve their fears, and achieve their dreams.
As we are living longer and healthier lives, we often take for granted that one day, our situation might change. Planning ahead for your long-term care now can help you avoid unforeseen expenses in the future.
In this episode, Nicole is joined by Lauren Weldon, a partner at Margolis Weldon LLC who specializes in elder law and estate planning. Listen as Lauren shares real-life stories and scenarios, and details what can happen in less-than-ideal situations when it comes to long-term care planning.
Lauren discusses:
- Her work as an elder law attorney and why some people require her services
- The importance of having a trustworthy, and capable Power of Attorney
- Why having conversations as a family is integral to your long-term care plan
- The difference between Medicare and Medicaid
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Lauren Weldon:
- Margolis Weldon
- LinkedIn: Lauren Weldon
- Lauren@MargolisWeldon.com
About our Guest:
Lauren Weldon is a partner at Margolis Weldon LLC in Parkridge, Illinois. She founded the firm in 2015 with Matt Margolis and has a career as an elder law attorney. Lauren graduated from the University of South Carolina and obtained her law degree from John Marshall Law School.
Lauren lives in Mt. Prospect with her husband, a labor and employment attorney, their six kids, two cats, and two dogs. In her free time (the little of it she has) Lauren enjoys riding her horse and spending time outdoors with her family and friends.
After a year of market ups and downs, investors are looking for an opportunity to pull ahead in the new year. How can they start off 2023 on the right foot?
Welcome back to another episode of Dollar$ and $ense! In this episode, Nicole Romito speaks with Bob Westrick, Partner at Private Vista, on how market volatility has impacted investors in 2022 and where they should focus their attention into the New Year. Bob shares key takeaways from this past year and how those experiences will change investment strategies moving forward.
Bob discusses:
- The difference in opportune environments between stocks and bonds and why neither has been safe in the 2022 market
- How tax loss harvesting can create returns from capital loss in investments
- What is the current view of 2023 and possibly 2024 of advisors and economists
- What can be controlled during market volatility and where advisors should focus their attention
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Bob Westrick:
- Bob Westrick
- Private Vista
About our Guest:
In 1983, Bob Westrick left a “Big Eight” public accounting firm to work for one of his audit clients. Eight years later, his entrepreneurial itch was scratched as he started a partnership in the financial services industry. Two years later, Bob co-founded WNA Wealth Advisors, one of the precursor firms to Private Vista. He is a frequent speaker and he is often interviewed on subjects ranging from economic conditions to wealth management. His experience as an accountant, business owner and financial advisor gives Bob a unique perspective to offer his clients.
The year is coming to an end. Let’s take a quick look at what has happened in the markets, and see what we can do to anticipate what’s coming.
In this episode, Nicole brings Stephanie Link, Chief Investment Strategist and Portfolio Manager at Hightower Advisors, onto the show to go over the year-end market update for 2022. Stephanie also shares a story reminiscing about joining the financial industry, talks about her passion for being compassionate with clients, and gives future financial advisors some advice for joining the industry.
Stephanie discusses:
- The importance of building trust between advisors and clients
- The steady interest rate increase in 2022 and what she thinks can be expected next year
- How looking at past market trends with clients can provide reassurance and calm their investment anxiety
- Some important tips for young women looking to enter the financial services industry
- And more
Connect with Nicole Romito:
- LinkedIn: Nicole Romito
- MyPrivateVista.com
- Call: 312-831-4370
Connect with Stephanie Link:
- LinkedIn: Stephanie Link
- Hightower Advisors
- LinkedIn: Hightower Advisors
About our Guest:
Stephanie Link is a Chief Investment Strategist and Portfolio Manager for Hightower Advisors. Prior to joining Hightower, Stephanie was a senior managing director and Head of Global Equities Research at TIAA Investments, where she managed $3.7 billion within the equity income strategy. She also served as the Chief Investment Officer and Co-Portfolio Manager of Jim Kramer’s Charitable Trust at TheStreet, and as Managing Director of Institutional Sales and Director of Research at Prudential Equity Group. With over 30 years of experience managing money, Stephanie Link’s insights are frequently sought after for industry events and by the media, including CNBC, The Halftime Report, Closing Bell, and Squawk Box.
Estate planning is hard for many, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s talk about how to have those tough conversations with family and make the process easier. In this episode, Nicole talks about estate planning with Debbie Feldman, the founder of Debra D. Feldman and Associates, Ltd. Debbie is a licensed and insured clinical … Continue reading Starting a Family Dialogue Around Getting Older With Debbie Feldman (Ep. 8) →
A 529 plan is a college investment plan that offers tax and financial aid advantages, but what exactly is covered? In this episode, Nicole provides an overview of 529 plans with her colleague, Colleen Dwyer. Colleen covers an overview of what a 529 plan is, the different advantages of the plan, and some of its … Continue reading Everything You Need To Know About 529 Plans With Colleen Dwyer (Ep. 7) →
Did you know that having an accountant, financial planner, and advisor working together can help take some of the stress off managing your finances while still keeping your best interests in mind? In this episode, Nicole speaks with Ryan Guedel, CPA and partner at account and consulting firm CJBS, about how to put together a … Continue reading Working with a Tax and Financial Planning Professional with COI Ryan Guedel from CJBS (Ep. 6) →
With the current market cycle, we aren’t surprised a lot of people are feeling anxious about their financial plans and investments. Many people don’t know what to do or expect. In this episode, Nicole brings on a colleague from Private Vista, Randy Porzel, CFP, RICP, to discuss investment strategy, and what to do and not … Continue reading What You Should and Shouldn’t Do In Today’s Market With Randy Porzel (Ep. 5) →
From selecting which school to finding what extracurriculars are available, applying to college involves many important considerations. Have you checked them all off your list? In this episode, Nicole talks with Corinne Smith, co-author of College Essay Journal: A Mindful Manual for College Applications, about college admissions. Corinne dives into why finding the right environment … Continue reading Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be With Corinne Smith (Ep. 4) →
If you’re hesitant to reach out to a financial advisor, you certainly shouldn’t be. Sure, it might seem like there is a lot to the process, but Nicole is here to help ease some of your anxiety. In this episode, Nicole Romito takes you through what it’s like to become a client at Private Vista. … Continue reading Becoming A Private Vista Client (Ep. 3) →
Whether you found us by our website, our podcast or a referral, you might wonder what to expect if you choose to work with us, at Private Vista. In this episode, Nicole Romito gives a debrief of what the Private Vista experience is like. She goes over what it’s like to call the office and … Continue reading What You Can Expect From The Private Vista Experience (Ep. 2) →
Welcome to Dollar$ and $ense: Creating Your Fulfilled Life with Nicole Romito, a Partner at Private Vista. We combine our years of personal and professional experiences with those of our guest experts to help you create the life you imagine. In this episode, Nicole introduces Private Vista, what they specialize in, and what their clients … Continue reading Everything You Need To Know About Private Vista With Nicole Romito (Ep. 1) →