Tag: Financial Empowerment
Uncovering Opportunity Beyond U.S. Borders with Matt McLaughlin (Ep. 65)

Uncovering Opportunity Beyond U.S. Borders with Matt McLaughlin (Ep. 65)

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If you could buy a luxury car at half price overseas, would you hesitate? That’s how some investors view global markets right now.

Nicole Romito chats with Matthew McLaughlin, CFA, CAIA, from Diamond Hill on this all-new episode of Dollar$ and $ense. Listen as they explore the dynamics of international investing, shedding light on the overlooked value opportunities outside the U.S. Learn why international markets remain “on sale,” how geopolitical tensions (like Ukraine and Gaza) impact investor sentiment, and why active management is crucial when investing overseas. 

From cultural differences in corporate governance to finding diamonds in undervalued regions, Matt offers a behind-the-scenes look at global investing strategies.

Key topics in this week’s release include:

  • Europe’s new defense and infrastructure spending initiatives [00:07:00]
  • Japan’s corporate governance reform [00:14:00]
  • China and India’s contrasting economic dynamics [00:16:30]
  • The implications of global trade deficits [00:24:00]
  • How international conflicts, like those in Ukraine and Israel, impact markets [00:28:00]
  • And more!

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Matthew McLaughlin:

About Our Guest: 

Matt serves as a portfolio specialist for Diamond Hill and joined the firm in 2023.

Prior to joining Diamond Hill, Matt served in a number of roles, including vice president — research, for Harbor Capital Advisors from 2008 to 2016, portfolio specialist for William Blair Investment Management from 2016 to 2019, and senior vice president, regional investment consultant for Harbor Capital Advisors from 2019 to 2023. Matt has a Bachelor of Arts in finance and marketing from Loras College.

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What You Need to Know About Divorce with Dr. Lydia Richardson (Part 1) (Ep. 63)

What You Need to Know About Divorce with Dr. Lydia Richardson (Part 1) (Ep. 63)

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💔 What if divorce didn’t have to mean devastation, but instead, became a path to healing, clarity, and even joy?

In this episode, Nicole Romito sits down with Dr. Lydia Richardson, a clinical psychologist and divorce mediator, to talk about what a “good divorce” really looks like.

Together, they explore the emotional weight of this life-altering decision and how you can honor both your personal truth and your future well-being.

If you’re standing at a crossroads in your marriage, know this: you’re not alone, and there is a way forward that centers your strength, your voice, and your vision for what’s next.

Key discussion points include:

  • Navigating the marathon of divorce with patience and self-awareness [00:06:34]
  • Finding joy in life post-divorce and breaking unhealthy patterns [00:16:42]
  • The difference between a coach and a therapist in the divorce process [00:25:29]
  • Utilizing a collaborative approach for a healthier transition [00:27:20]
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Dr. Lydia Richardson:

About Our Guest: 

Lydia Richardson is a licensed clinical psychologist, Divorce Mediator, Collaborative Law Coach, and Child Specialist who has provided services to adults, couples, and families in a variety of settings since 2004. She is fluent in Spanish and Danish; her multicultural background enables her to bring cultural sensitivity and competence to all aspects of her work, and she is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life. Her business experience in banking and finance gives her a unique perspective and ability to problem-solve effectively and work efficiently to help clients achieve their goals. She earned her B.A. from New York University (Economics/Politics) and worked in business and finance for several years before returning to school to study psychology. She earned her M.A. in industrial/organizational psychology and her doctorate in clinical psychology (both from Roosevelt University). She has worked extensively with the families of children with developmental disorders, in foster care, and with adolescents in juvenile detention. She is also trained in neuropsychological assessment of adults and children and has consulted to companies seeking executive coaching and team-building.

She is a Past President of the Collaborative Divorce Illinois (CDI) Board of Directors and continues to serve on the Board as the Vice President of Mental Health. She is passionate about and hopes to promote alternative dispute resolution and help facilitate less conflict in divorce so as to promote happier families and more productive co-parenting. She believes that families can transcend the difficulty of divorce and evolve into happy and productive individuals and co-parents. She is a member of other professional organizations, including the International Association of Collaborative Professionals (IACP), the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), and the American Psychological Association (APA).

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How Economic Data Shapes Our Financial Outlook with Ben Audley (Ep. 61)

How Economic Data Shapes Our Financial Outlook with Ben Audley (Ep. 61)

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Is the economy thriving, though the news and your instincts tell you otherwise? 

Let’s unravel the “vibe” disconnect—where feelings meet facts with Ben Audley, a senior advisor at Private Vista. With help from host Nicole Romito, he tackles the intriguing gap between personal financial feelings and actual economic data. He also dives deep into the so-called “Vibe Session,” highlighting how Americans feel great about personal finances yet gloomy about the broader economy.

Nicole and Ben chat about:

  • The surprising strength of the American economy post-pandemic: [00:07:45]
  • Why wages are outpacing inflation for most Americans: [00:20:42]
  • How the wealth of the bottom 50% has nearly doubled recently: [00:22:01]
  • Examining high-interest subjects like inflation and recession predictions:[00:30:45]
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Ben Audley:

About Our Guest: 

Ben Audley began his financial services career in 2018, driven by a fascination with macroeconomic trends and global affairs. Starting in the wealth management department of a firm in suburban Chicago, he quickly learned the importance of building strong, trust-based client relationships. His goal is to become a trusted advisor for all clients, helping them navigate their financial journeys and achieve their personal Private Vista. Outside of work, Ben is passionate about spending time with friends, family, and his two dogs, traveling, sampling local cuisines, reading, and engaging in competitive Wisconsin sports, all while maintaining an active lifestyle. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and International Studies from UW-Madison.

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