Dollars and Sense

What happens when a family business faces the question of “what’s next”? In this conversation, Nicole Romito sits down with Justin Albertson, Vice President of Client Services at The Family Business Consulting Group, to unpack the delicate balance of transitioning a business while preserving family relationships. Together, they explore why the family side of succession is often more complex than the legal or financial mechanics, and how thoughtful conversations can create alignment across generations. Justin shares real-world examples from successful transitions to tough moments of misalignment, highlighting the importance of open dialogue, clear expectations, and independent third-party guidance. What to expect in this episode: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.com Connect with Justin Albertson: LinkedIn: Justin AlbertsonLinkedIn: The Family Business Consulting Group, Inc.The Family Business Consulting Group: Justin Albertsonjalbertson@thefbcg.com About Our Guest: Justin Albertson is the Vice President of Client Services at The Family Business Consulting Group. With more than 20 years of experience in assessment, organizational effectiveness, leadership development, and executive coaching, he partners with families to strengthen relationships and create strategies that align business success with family vision.

What happens when a strategy manager steps off the spreadsheet and into the spotlight? In this uplifting episode, Nicole Romito sits down with Private Vista’s own Michael Im, whose surprising love for performance arts like improv, acting, and choir has quietly shaped his approach to leadership, communication, and empathy in finance. Michael shares how growing up in a creative Korean American household led him to karaoke nights, improv rooms, and eventually dramatic acting classes in Chicago. But this isn’t just about art. It’s about how performance challenges, emotional vulnerability, and active listening skills transfer powerfully into professional life. Whether it’s running strategic operations or connecting with clients, Michael’s creative lens offers a refreshing take on what it means to be fully human in the finance world. What to expect in this episode: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Michael Im: LinkedIn: Michael ImMyPrivateVista.com About Our Guest: Michael Im is the Strategy Manager at Private Vista, where he helps streamline operations and empower advisors with more time for their clients. With a background in consulting and operations leadership, Michael also brings a unique creative edge shaped by his lifelong passion for performance arts.

What started as a simple hobby has grown into a source of joy, peace, and connection for one of Private Vista’s Client Service Associates, Sue Bolt. In this special lifestyle episode, Sue joins host Nicole Romito to share how birdwatching has become a grounding force in her life, from childhood memories with her father to creating new experiences with her grandchildren. Sue opens up about how this passion deepened during the pandemic, how it serves as a form of mindfulness and mental wellness, and how it’s evolved into meaningful multigenerational bonding. From photographing bald eagles to chasing elusive owls, her story is a reminder that fulfillment isn’t just about finances — it’s about finding purpose in everyday passions. What to expect in this episode: Resources: Merlin Bird ID Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 About Our Guest: After many years in the banking industry, Sue shifted to wealth management in 2002. She is part of the Customer Service Associate team as well as the main liaison for all Private Vista’s institutional custodians. Sue takes pride in the strong relationships that she has built over the last 20+ years. Through her daily interactions with clients, she does her best to ensure that she is meeting their needs promptly. She also enjoys problem-solving and the many challenges that her job brings her each day. Sue loves the outdoors! Birds are her passion, both indoor birds and birds in the wild, so she has taken up bird and nature photography in her spare time. The peace and calm that forests bring her as she visits various locations looking for birds is a huge part of her Private Vista. Sue and her husband also very actively attend their grandchildren’s many sporting events and various other activities. The more time she can spend with their three adult children, their spouses, and their nine grandchildren, the better! Her Private Vista for future years is to have more free time to enjoy the outdoors and to be able to follow the grandchildren’s activities, wherever they may take them!

Most people spend years preparing for retirement, but few feel fully prepared for what happens the day the paycheck stops. In this special roundtable episode, host Nicole Romito sits down with Private Vista advisors Greg Williams, Miles Johnson, and Julian Bell to answer the real questions clients ask as they move through accumulation and into decumulation. From how much to save, where to save, how to optimize for taxes, and how to confidently withdraw income in retirement, the team breaks down complex financial topics into real-world advice you can actually use. What to expect during this conversation: Resources: Uncovering Opportunity Beyond U.S. Borders with Matt McLaughlin (Ep. 65)Bonds, Tariffs, and Turbulence: How to Stay Grounded in a Shaky Economy with Bill Campbell (Ep. 66) Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Our Guests: LinkedIn: Greg Williams, CFP®LinkedIn: Julian Bell, CFP®LinkedIn: Miles Johnson, CFP®

Some of life’s most meaningful moments aren’t about money—they’re about shared experiences. In part two of this special series, host Nicole Romito welcomes back luxury travel expert Byrd Bergeron to explore how intentional travel can create lasting family memories that become part of your legacy. Whether it’s grandparents bringing multiple generations together or parents planning once-in-a-lifetime trips for their children, Byrd shares insider tips for designing travel that feels personal, unforgettable, and worth every dollar. What to expect in this episode: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Byrd Bergeron: Travel Byrds LinkedIn: Byrd Bergeron About Our Guest: Byrd is the CEO of a $ 13 million travel agency, revolutionizing the luxury travel space. Our innovative model redefines the role of travel agents by allowing them to focus on crafting bespoke experiences. At the same time, our specialized support staff manages the intricate details – from invoicing and dinner reservations to spa appointments and beyond. Our commitment to curating exceptional itineraries is unwavering. Every booking undergoes a meticulous triple-check process, ensuring flawless execution and unforgettable journeys for our discerning clientele. At the intersection of luxury and efficiency, we’re not just planning trips – we’re creating experiences that exceed expectations every single time.

Most people love to travel, but not everyone knows how to do it well. In this vibrant, story-filled episode, host Nicole Romito is joined by luxury travel expert Byrd Bergeron to reveal the five travel mistakes people are making and how to avoid them. Byrd, the CEO of a thriving $13 million travel agency, shares eye-opening stories (including a pink penguin poop fact you won’t forget) and tactical advice for creating trips that are not only memorable but meaningful. From why early planning beats last-minute booking, to how understanding local events can make or break your itinerary, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on intentional travel—and its connection to living a legacy. What to expect in this episode: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Byrd Bergeron: Travel Byrds LinkedIn: Byrd Bergeron About Our Guest: Byrd is the CEO of a $ 13 million travel agency, revolutionizing the luxury travel space. Our innovative model redefines the role of travel agents by allowing them to focus on crafting bespoke experiences. At the same time, our specialized support staff manages the intricate details – from invoicing and dinner reservations to spa appointments and beyond. Our commitment to curating exceptional itineraries is unwavering. Every booking undergoes a meticulous triple-check process, ensuring flawless execution and unforgettable journeys for our discerning clientele. At the intersection of luxury and efficiency, we’re not just planning trips – we’re creating experiences that exceed expectations every single time.

Ever wondered how the bond market could be your secret weapon in times of economic uncertainty? Strap in as Nicole Romito hosts Bill Campbell from DoubleLine in an eye-opening discussion on the oft-overlooked bond market and its role during turbulent times. Bill dives into the complexities of the current economic landscape, unpacking the ripple effects of tariffs, debt management, and U.S. domestic policy on global markets. As this vibrant conversation unfolds, you’ll gain insights into how these factors can influence fixed income strategies and your investment portfolio’s stability. Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Bill Campbell: LinkedIn: Bill CampbellDoubleLine About Bill Campbell: Bill Campbell is a Portfolio Manager at DoubleLine Capital LP, where he co-manages the DoubleLine Global Bond Strategy and serves as a permanent member of the firm’s Fixed Income Asset Allocation Committee. With a focus on Developed Markets, CEEMEA (Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa), and China, he plays a key role in shaping global fixed income strategy. Since joining DoubleLine in 2013, Bill has become a trusted voice in navigating complex macroeconomic environments and emerging market dynamics. Prior to his tenure at DoubleLine, Bill built a robust background in investment management. He held roles at Peridiem Global Investors as a Global Fixed Income Research Analyst and Portfolio Manager, and previously worked at Nuveen Investments and John Hancock Financial. Bill holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics and International Business, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English from Pennsylvania State University. Known for his sharp analytical skills and global perspective, he continues to be a leading figure in fixed income investing.

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: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Matthew McLaughlin: LinkedIn: Matthew McLaughlin, CFA, CAIADiamond Hill Capital Management 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.

What role do emotions play in navigating divorce, especially when children are involved? Nicole Romito from Private Vista is back with Dr. Lydia Richardson for part two of their series on dealing with divorce. While part one focused on self-care for adults, this installment dives into supporting children through the emotional ups and downs of their parents’ separation. Dr. Richardson, a seasoned clinical psychologist specializing in family dynamics, brings her insights on minimizing the negative impacts of divorce on children. From establishing consistent routines to managing difficult conversations, this episode is packed with practical tips and candid discussions. Key conversations include: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Dr. Lydia Richardson: info@drlydiarichardson.comLinkedIn: Lydia C. RichardsonRichardson Psychology 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,...

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: Resources: Empowering Your Financial Future Post-Divorce with Delaney Orozco (Ep. 59)Special Feature! The Divorce and Beyond Podcast with Susan Guthrie (Ep. 48)Building Your Team For A Successful Divorce Process with Susan Guthrie (Ep. 36)Collaborative Divorce Illinois: Find A Divorce Professional Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Dr. Lydia Richardson: info@drlydiarichardson.comLinkedIn: Lydia C. RichardsonRichardson Psychology 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...

What do the latest Medicare changes mean for your future? Join Nicole Romito and special guest Carly Rosswurm, Director of Medicare Solutions at Ash Brokerage, as they unravel recent updates to Medicare, the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act, and more. Carly brings 19 years of expertise in Medicare solutions and breaks down the essentials you need to know, whether you’re approaching 65 or advising a loved one. Nicole and Carly discuss: Resources: Medicare Made Clear With Carly Rosswurm (Ep. 20) Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Carly Rosswurm: LinkedIn: Carly RosswurmAsh Brokerage About Our Guest: Carly Rosswurm is the Director of Medicare Solutions at Ash Brokerage. Carly graduated from Indiana University with a degree in business and a concentration in marketing. Since then, Carly has always focused on the realm of Medicare. She has been Life & Health licensed for 17 years, and has experience in Medicare marketing, contracting, compliance, continuing education, and sales. With the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, Carly first got involved in Medicare when the Part D plans were first mandated, and Medicare Advantage plans were first coming into the market. Through continuing education courses, Carly has offered licensed agents and advisors classes on the importance of knowing Medicare basics, along with the difference between Medicare Advantage plans versus traditional Medicare Supplements.

How Economic Data Shapes Our Financial Outlook with Ben Audley

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:

Are you financially prepared for nature’s curveballs? Nicole Romito sits down with Courtney Eber, Vice President of Alliant Private Client, and Tyler Banks, Executive Vice President of Alliant Client Insurance, to break down the challenges and strategies surrounding personal risk management in the face of climate change. They delve into how extreme weather patterns are changing the landscape of insurance policies and what precautionary steps affluent families can take to safeguard against unexpected losses. Courtney and Tyler discuss:

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: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Jeremy Bell: LinkedIn: Jeremy BellConway 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.

Are you navigating the maze of financial security but unsure of what’s next when you reach your goals? Nicole Romito, alongside Jeff Toner, CHFC®, RICP®, Partner at Private Vista, dives into the less-discussed side of financial planning—how to find purpose and meaning after achieving financial independence. Listen as they explore the big questions clients face once their financial goals are met, and how to prepare for the next chapter. Gain insight as Nicole and Jeff discuss: Resources: Estate Planning for the Sandwich Generation with Jeff Toner (Ep. 34)Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful LifeThe Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Jeff Toner: LinkedIn: Jeff TonerMyPrivateVista.comCall: 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.

Stress can help you thrive (to a certain degree). Join Nicole Romito as she chats with professional development coach Brendan Cournane to uncover the surprising truths about stress. Through relatable insights and personal stories, they explore practical strategies for managing stress, especially during high-pressure times like the holiday season and year-end. Key takeaways from this episode include: Previous Episode of Interest: Finding Calmness During The Holidays With Brendan Cournane (Ep. 33) Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Brendan Cournane: LinkedIn: Brendan CournaneCoachBrendan.comcoach@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.

How do you manage concentrated stock portfolios? With the tech industry thriving, many investors are discovering that their portfolios are heavily reliant on a few major tech stocks, making it a challenging landscape to navigate. Nicole Romito converses with her colleague Randy Porzel, CFP®, and RICP® from Private Vista. Together, they explore the intricacies of concentrated stock positions and their potential effects on your financial future. They discuss effective methods for assessing your stocks, examine strategies to mitigate overexposure, and share insights on how to maintain a robust financial plan. Gain insight as this episode highlights: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Randy Porzel: Linkedin: Randy PorzelMyPrivateVista.comCall: 312-831-4370 About Our Guest: Randy Porzel’s financial services career began in 2006 as an intern and has worked his way up through every job at Private Vista. Randy has spent hours in meetings with clients, asking questions, and observing. He learned to recognize expectations, a client’s need for clarity, and how without it, there might exist an anxious future. It’s why Randy enjoys taking his clients through Private Vista’s planning process, using Private Vista’s tools that answer their questions and clear any uncertainty so that his clients can look forward to their idea of an enriched life.

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. Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Greg Bogdan: LinkedIn: Greg Bogdan, CFP®gbogdan@myprivatevista.com 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.

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: Connect with Nicole Romito: LinkedIn: Nicole RomitoMyPrivateVista.cominfo@myprivatevista.comCall: 312-831-4370 Connect with Jeremy Bell: LinkedIn: Jeremy BellConway Investment Solutions 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.