Tag: Financial Planning
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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Empowering Your Financial Future Post-Divorce with Delaney Orozco (Ep.59)

Empowering Your Financial Future Post-Divorce with Delaney Orozco (Ep.59)

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What’s the biggest issue in a divorce? Hint: It’s not the relationship.

Nicole Romito welcomes her colleague Delaney Orozco, CFP®, back to the show to dive into the complex world of managing finances during a divorce. With a focus on empathy and practical advice, Nicole and Delaney outline a three-phase approach to help listeners navigate this challenging life event. 

Nicole and Delaney discuss: 

  • The importance of building a support team 
  • Why you should call your financial advisor once divorce has been determined
  • Emotional aspects of financial assets: from pensions to your home
  • Gathering data and understanding your financial picture
  • Looking ahead: crafting the vision for your future life post-divorce 
  • And more

Previous Episodes of Interest:

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Delaney Orozco:

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.

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2025 Market Projections with Jeremy Bell (Ep.58)

2025 Market Projections with Jeremy Bell (Ep.58)

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How did the markets dance through 2024, and what’s on the horizon for 2025? 

Nicole Romito and Jeremy Bell, Chief Investment Officer at Conway Investment Research, reflect on the financial landscape of 2024. They discuss the performance of U.S. equity markets, the volatility in fixed income, and the outlook for 2025. They emphasize the importance of a strategic investment plan, diversification, and staying invested for the long term despite market fluctuations. 

Nicole and Jeremy discuss: 

  • U.S. Equity Market Overview: A year of strong performance amid global noise
  • Insights into the Fixed Income Market: Navigating interest rate volatility
  • 2025 Projections: Opportunities in U.S. equities and asset class rankings
  • Investing Strategies: Timing the market and risk management
  • And more

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Jeremy Bell:

About Our Guest: 

Jeremy is a Principal and Chief Investment Officer for Conway Investment Research, LLC. He joined the firm in 2011 and chairs Conway’s Investment Committee which establishes the firm investment philosophy and process and ultimately oversees the implementation of recommendations made to clients. In addition to leading Conway’s research effort, Jeremy’s primary responsibilities include capital markets research, asset allocation modeling, alternative investment manager due diligence, and management of key client relationships.

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Building Your Financial Dream Team with Greg Bogdan (Ep.54)

Building Your Financial Dream Team with Greg Bogdan (Ep.54)

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Assembling a smart financial team could be the key to your long-term financial success. 

Financial planning isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about orchestrating a professional team that grows with you, helping further secure your financial future and peace of mind.

Nicole Romito sits down with Greg Bogdan, Senior Advisor at Private Vista, to discuss why having a well-rounded financial team is crucial. Learn the importance of avoiding a “team of one,” how to integrate your financial, legal, and tax advisors, and real-life stories illustrating the impact of a coordinated approach.  

  • The importance of a complete team: Understand why a single advisor may not be enough to cover complex financial needs.
  • The value of proactive planning and why regular updates are essential
  • Examples of how a coordinated team has simplified estate settlement and major financial decisions 
  • How to start building your financial team today

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Greg Bogdan:

About Our Guest: 

Greg Bogdan enjoys creating lasting relationships as a trusted advisor to clients. He finds it most rewarding to help his clients think through their financial situations in developing a customized plan and path to achieving their goals. After walking clients through his process, Greg hopes that they come away feeling empowered to make informed financial decisions with the confidence of knowing how to achieve their vision of ‘financial independence’ while living a more enriched and fulfilling life.

With a busy, young family, outside of work and in between shuttling their girls (ages 7, 5, and 1) between activities, Greg, and his wife, Christi, enjoy cookouts and entertaining with their friends and family. During the summer months, they’re often found at nearby parks, going on walks with their dog, Clancy, or riding bikes as a family. They most enjoy summer vacations on the beaches of Cape Cod and the shores of Michigan. In the future, My Private Vista is to explore the country and instill their love of traveling in their girls.

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Managing Financial Markets During The Elections With Jeremy Bell (Ep.53)

Managing Financial Markets During The Elections With Jeremy Bell (Ep.53)

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As the U.S. elections approach, many investors find themselves questioning whether to adjust their portfolios in anticipation of potential market changes.

Nicole Romito is joined by Jeremy Bell, Chief Investment Officer for Conway Investment Research, to discuss the impact of US elections on financial markets and how to navigate the resulting volatility. With elections just weeks away, the conversation delves into whether you should adjust your portfolio in anticipation and explores if market performance favors one political party over another. 

Jeremy discusses: 

  • The importance of maintaining a long-term strategic investment plan regardless of election outcomes
  • Historical performance data showing the minimal impact of a political party on market returns
  • The role of the Federal Reserve and its recent actions in maintaining economic stability
  • Key economic indicators to watch and how they influence market predictions
  • And more

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Jeremy Bell:

About Our Guest: 

Jeremy is a Principal and Chief Investment Officer for Conway Investment Research, LLC. He joined the firm in 2011 and chairs Conway’s Investment Committee which establishes the firm investment philosophy and process and ultimately oversees the implementation of recommendations made to clients. In addition to leading Conway’s research effort, Jeremy’s primary responsibilities include capital markets research, asset allocation modeling, alternative investment manager due diligence, and management of key client relationships.

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SPECIAL FEATURE: The Divorce and Beyond Podcast: Expensive Mistakes Made in Complex Property Division with Nicole Romito (Ep. 48)

SPECIAL FEATURE: The Divorce and Beyond Podcast: Expensive Mistakes Made in Complex Property Division with Nicole Romito (Ep. 48)

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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:

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with 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”.

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How to Prepare for the Death of a Loved One With Carrie Shoener (Ep. 46)

How to Prepare for the Death of a Loved One With Carrie Shoener (Ep. 46)

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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:

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Carrie Shoener:

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.

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Strategies for Maximizing Executive Compensation with Matt Parenti – Part Two (Ep. 43)

Strategies for Maximizing Executive Compensation with Matt Parenti – Part Two (Ep. 43)

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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:

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with 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.

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FEATURE
Strategies for Maximizing Executive Compensation with Matt Parenti – Part One (Ep. 42)

Strategies for Maximizing Executive Compensation with Matt Parenti – Part One (Ep. 42)

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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: 

Connect with 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.

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FEATURE
Municipal Bonds Unveiled with Matt Bernardi (Ep. 37)

Municipal Bonds Unveiled with Matt Bernardi (Ep. 37)

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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:

Connect with Nicole Romito: 

Connect with Matt Bernardi: 

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.

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