Amie Fox - Steadman Financial Group https://steadmanfinancial.com/author/afox/ We are your financial planning specialists Wed, 29 Jan 2025 21:13:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://steadmanfinancial.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/cropped-Steadman-Favicon2-1-32x32.png Amie Fox - Steadman Financial Group https://steadmanfinancial.com/author/afox/ 32 32 Steadman Financial Group Announces New Initiative for Female Professionals: Her Money Counts https://steadmanfinancial.com/Steadman-financial-group-announces-new-initiative-for-female-professionals-her-money-counts/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Steadman-financial-group-announces-new-initiative-for-female-professionals-her-money-counts https://steadmanfinancial.com/Steadman-financial-group-announces-new-initiative-for-female-professionals-her-money-counts/#comments Tue, 17 Jan 2023 21:07:54 +0000 https://steadmanfinancial.com/?p=27072 Her Money Counts is a women's empowerment initiative launched in response to our female financial planners noticing a disparity in treatment among professional women by the financial industry. When discussing these issues with their female clients, they learned the greatest deterrents to reaching out for financial planning assistance was the failure to be heard, finding […]

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Her Money Counts is a women's empowerment initiative launched in response to our female financial planners noticing a disparity in treatment among professional women by the financial industry.

When discussing these issues with their female clients, they learned the greatest deterrents to reaching out for financial planning assistance was the failure to be heard, finding instead they were told what they should do, not necessarily in conjunction with what they wanted.

Additionally, they felt no one was guiding them to discuss the individual situations that professional women often find themselves in. Unique situations warrant discussions to find individualized solutions, and many female clients felt their financial planners were uninterested in adapting their planning advice to fit those needs.

Research has found that women think about finances differently than men [1] which can drastically affect the planning process for future financial aspirations and commitments. Work-life balance, commitments with children, and work schedules are just a few examples that tend to sit higher on women's priority lists than men's.

Her Money Counts is ready to engage these empowered women and build the right plan based on what's important to them.

You can find more information at steadmanfinancial.com/her-money-counts/ and Her Money Counts social media pages which are accessible below. 

[1] Bank of America Study, 2022, https://newsroom.bankofamerica.com/content/newsroom/press-releases/2022/06/bank-of-america-study-finds-94--of-women-believe-they-ll-be-pers.html

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The Steadman Showcase: New Hires of October 2022 https://steadmanfinancial.com/the-Steadman-showcase-new-hires-of-october-2022/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-Steadman-showcase-new-hires-of-october-2022 https://steadmanfinancial.com/the-Steadman-showcase-new-hires-of-october-2022/#comments Fri, 18 Nov 2022 20:27:42 +0000 https://steadmanfinancial.com/?p=26961 Please join us in welcoming the newest members of the Steadman team: Mari and John. Read more about our new hires below! Mari Dykes, Accounting Specialist, Cleveland Where are you from? Cleveland. I have lived here my entire life. I started out as an east-sider and am now a happy west-sider. Why did you choose to […]

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Please join us in welcoming the newest members of the Steadman team: Mari and John. Read more about our new hires below!


Mari Dykes, Accounting Specialist, Cleveland

Where are you from? Cleveland. I have lived here my entire life. I started out as an east-sider and am now a happy west-sider.

Why did you choose to work at Steadman? I interviewed for the position more out of curiosity than a real change of employment, but after speaking to several individuals from Steadman I just knew this would be a great place to work. Everyone is very friendly, open, and inclusive. I am very happy to join the team.

What causes or community services do you have a passion for?  I would like to become more involved with children that are aging out of the foster system.

Outside of the office, what do you enjoy doing? I love trying new restaurants

If you absolutely had to sing karaoke, what song would you pick? My go-to Karaoke song is Ice, Ice Baby by Vanilla Ice. [Editor's Note: Mari got to debut this talent at a recent staff outing and entertained her new colleagues immensely!]

Where is one of your favorite places to travel and why? I love to travel anywhere by cruise ship.


John Sexton, Financial Planner, Cleveland

Where are you from? I've lived in Hudson, Ohio off and on since 1977, and it's been a wonderful place to grow up, and also for my wife Kerbi and I to raise our two daughters.

Why did you choose to work at Skylight? I've seen some of the ways other companies work, and I really came to Steadman because of the culture. You can tell in very short order that people love what they do and are doing it for the right reasons.

What causes or community services do you have a passion for? I am an active freemason, so when I'm not actively trying to take over the world, I engage in many fundraisers for scholarships and the yearly gift baskets to the less fortunate in the community.

Which celebrity would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Either Don Rickles or early 70s 'Gator McCluskey' era Burt Reynolds

If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be? Repo Man (1984) Not only is it one of my favorite movies, but it's easily the most quotable movie I know

If you could have a drink with any person throughout history, who would it be and why? An unsung hero, like the owner of Michaelangelo's art supply store, because I doubt anyone has ever asked him before.


Thanks for sharing, everyone, and welcome to Steadman Financial Group!

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The Steadman Showcase: New Hires of August/September 2022 https://steadmanfinancial.com/the-Steadman-showcase-new-hires-of-august-september-2022/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-Steadman-showcase-new-hires-of-august-september-2022 https://steadmanfinancial.com/the-Steadman-showcase-new-hires-of-august-september-2022/#comments Mon, 10 Oct 2022 17:46:46 +0000 https://steadmanfinancial.com/?p=26800 Please join us in welcoming the newest members of the Steadman team: Harrison, Tara, Rachel, Sarah, Gabe and Annie. Read more about our new hires below! Harrison Schoettley, Financial Professional, Toledo Where are you from? Sylvania, Ohio Why did you choose to work at Steadman? From the very beginning it felt like everyone at Steadman […]

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Please join us in welcoming the newest members of the Steadman team: Harrison, Tara, Rachel, Sarah, Gabe and Annie. Read more about our new hires below!


Harrison Schoettley, Financial Professional, Toledo

Where are you from? Sylvania, Ohio

Why did you choose to work at Steadman? From the very beginning it felt like everyone at Steadman was there to assist and help in any way possible, it never felt like just another employee entering the company. I also like how Steadman emphasizes on the importance of community outreach.

What causes or community services do you have a passion for? Helping veterans and first responders within our community, H.O.O.V.E.S. a local organization that rescues horses who in turn rescue veterans with PTSD and assisting in transitioning back to civilian life is an organization I have been helping in different ways to include fundraisers and being a donor

What life achievement are you most proud of? Joining the United States Marine Corps and being on active duty for 10 years. While in the Marines I worked on the oldest helicopters until they retired from service and then transitioned to the newest fighter jet. I had the opportunity to live in Okinawa, Japan for a couple of years and was able to tour many Asian countries.

Outside of the office, what do you enjoy doing? Tinkering with about anything around the house, remodeling our current home, building a play set for my son, working on cars, fixing about anything I can get my hands on. I will be restoring a classic truck in the near future that will take up some time after work.

What was your first job ever? What did you like/dislike about it? Mountain Man Sports, selling skis and snowboards. I enjoyed talking to customers and listening to their experiences on the mountains, whether it was somewhere local or a trip out west.


Tara Bluhm, Floating Administrator, Cleveland

Where are you from? I was born in Cleveland and grew up in Lakewood. By the time I was in high school, I was living in Amherst. I currently live in Lakewood with my husband, our dog and four cats.

Why did you choose to work at Steadman? The people. Meeting with Crystal Leach, Trisha Rutherford and Liz McKeegan really solidified the culture behind the company. I wanted a place I could be myself, utilize my knowledge and skills, and proudly retire from.

What causes or community services do you have a passion for? Improving the environment. Educating others on the importance of disposing of trash properly in public places and leading by example are two components of my contribution. I also support community services for homelessness, food shelters and education.

What life achievement are you most proud of? Making the decision to go back to college for an additional degree. When I had started to gather the information to apply to Cleveland State University, I was nervous about getting accepted. I was able enter into a business program, and then I changed my major to economics my second year. Spring break 2020 was the beginning timeframe of the pandemic quarantine. I was able to maintain focus and persistence and received honors for my performance.

Which celebrity would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Alexis Bledel. She is most recently playing the role of Emily Malek in The Handmaid’s Tale. We are approximately the same age and have similar features and I think she would be able to portray me very easily. 

I also enjoy being active in my spare time outside of work. I like to work out, golf, play softball, play basketball, etc. I also enjoy spending time visiting my family, hanging out with friends on the weekend, and watching whatever sports events that are on TV at the time.

Where is one of your favorite places to travel and why? Masai Mara in Kenya, Africa. I travelled there recently this past February with my husband and father-in-law. We went on a safari into the Masai Mara reservation and were able to get very close to the animals and their habitats. We were able to learn about the details of preservation, conservation and culture from the locals and experts. The people, the Maasai tribe, were very welcoming and generous to our visit. I would return someday. (Masai Mara is the place, Maasai are the people)


 

Rachel Smylie, Sales Operation Coordinator, Cleveland

Where are you from? I’m from Cleveland, currently living in Solon with my husband, Jordan, and our two children, Lizzie and Kyrian.

Why did you choose to work at Steadman? Everyone I had a chance to meet and speak with throughout my application process was so friendly and approachable, and everyone had such lovely things to say about how supportive the team was, so I knew this was a company that I wanted to be a part of.

Outside of the office, what do you enjoy doing? I love reading, and chasing after my kids.

What is the funniest "dad joke" you know? I love “dad jokes” and terrible puns, so I can never pick one favorite. Here are two that made me smile recently, I hope they brighten your day too!

What does a nosey pepper do? It gets jalapeño business.

Why did the scarecrow win an award? He was outstanding in his field

If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be? Either Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl, or 10 Things I Hate About You.

Where is one of your favorite places to travel and why? Our family is definitely a Disney family! We love taking our kids, but my husband and I also enjoy being Disney adults. We actually went to Walt Disney World for the first part of our honeymoon! Hopefully we’ll be able to visit again soon.


Sarah Mazur, Operations Assistant, Cleveland

Where are you from? Cleveland

Why did you choose to work at Skylight? I chose Steadman because I was looking for a new opportunity and Steadman seemed like a great place to work.

Outside of the office what do you enjoy doing? Outside of work I enjoy spending time with family, trying new restaurants, and going to baseball games.

Any big plans coming up? I have plans to go to England to visit my sister and to meet my niece.

Where is one of your favorite places to travel to and why? My favorite place to travel is to Quebec, where we have a family cabin. The scenery is beautiful and it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.

 


 

Gabriel Sauvinsky, Financial Services Professional, Cleveland

Where are you from? Rootstown, Ohio

Why did you choose to work at Steadman? An opportunity for a career change and to help people live more fulfilling lives through financial literacy and empowerment.

What causes or community services do you have a passion for? For 4 years in college, I was a part of the University of Toledo Relay for Life Committee and help multiple different positions within the organization. Our task was to put on a fundraising event each fall to raise money for the American Cancer Society. I also have a passion for sustainable living and investing.

Outside of the office, what do you enjoy doing? Outside of the office I like to stay active by running and strength training, I also enjoy cooking for my wonderful girlfriend as well.

What was your first job ever? What did you like/dislike about it? My first job ever was as a dishwasher at a fast casual barbeque restaurant. I liked the people I worked with but disliked everything else.

If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be? If I could snap my fingers and become an expert at something it would be to become an expert at guitar playing.


Annie Schwarz, Director of Operations, Cleveland

Where are you from? I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, but currently reside in Solon.

Why did you choose to work at Skylight? Steadman's positive reputation throughout the community, as well as its distinctive team-based, supportive culture are what drew me to SFG.

What causes or community services do you have a passion for? My family and I are very involved in our church, through which we volunteer for various causes related to serving the poor, elderly, or sick. I am also active in the Solon District School system.

What life achievement are you most proud of? The life achievement of which I am most proud is becoming a mom. Not only am I proud of the little people they've become (my son, Jack is 8 and my daughter, Sydney is 6), but also of literally giving birth. To carry, nurture, and deliver a baby is such an

 extraordinary part of human existence. I'm in actual awe of my own mom who accomp

lished this feat five times!

If you absolutely had to sing karaoke, what song would you pick? Unfortunately for audiences, no one has to twist my arm to get me to sing karaoke. I love so many different types of music, so to pick just one song is nearly impossible (again...unfortunately for the audience)! Since I'm aware that my performance may cause pain in the ears of those forced to listen, I do my best to ease their suffering by picking songs that people like to sing along to. Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline" is usually a hit, as is "500 Miles" by The Proclaimers. Depending on how far into the evening I'd sing my karaoke song, I might even pull out Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive."

If you could snap your fingers and become an expert at something, what would it be? I would become an expert handyman. Knowing how often my family, friends, and I have a need for such a person, I've always wished I knew more about the trades.


Thanks for sharing, everyone, and welcome to Steadman Financial Group!

 

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Steadman Financial Advisor Joins Local Program to Make Services More Accessible https://steadmanfinancial.com/Steadman-financial-advisor-joins-local-program-to-make-services-more-accessible/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Steadman-financial-advisor-joins-local-program-to-make-services-more-accessible https://steadmanfinancial.com/Steadman-financial-advisor-joins-local-program-to-make-services-more-accessible/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2022 14:48:42 +0000 https://steadmanfinancial.com/?p=26327 As a participating business, Steadman Financial Group Financial Advisor Bob McNichol was recently featured in an article in a local publication promoting the growth of a local business area in northern Kentucky. Associated with the Cincinnati office, local transportation challenges motivated Bob to establish his office just across the river in Kentucky, specifically the town […]

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As a participating business, Steadman Financial Group Financial Advisor Bob McNichol was recently featured in an article in a local publication promoting the growth of a local business area in northern Kentucky. Associated with the Cincinnati office, local transportation challenges motivated Bob to establish his office just across the river in Kentucky, specifically the town of Erlanger.

The CAP program (full name: Commonwealth Area Professional District Capital Improvement Incentive and Grant program) included an Erlanger City Council-approved zone change that will encourage new or expanding businesses to convert existing residential structures into commercial office space or develop a new commercial building.

Located at 441 Commonwealth Ave, a primary thoroughfare in the city, Bob said of the location, “Commonwealth Avenue has so much to offer a business. It is centrally located, very convenient and I can envision it becoming the flagship street in Erlanger, a corridor lined with offices for lawyers, title companies, financial planning firms and other professional services.”

Now with their new Steadman sign in place, Bob and Davis McNichol are excited to welcome all their existing clients and new ones to their convenient majestic white house office on Commonwealth Ave.

View the full article for more on Bob and Erlanger’s CAP business incentive program:

[link to https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.lanereport.com_155909_2022_05_erlanger-2Dlaunches-2Dincentive-2Dprogram-2Dto-2Dchange-2Dcommonwealth-2Dave-2Dto-2Doffice-2Dbusiness-2Ddistrict_&d=DwIFAg&c=BX7Y4KpGhcDnIsrgHKqkbfoiiDvjhxwuYUpcrPD7xrE&r=1vC5BL_gGO4bsUx7id1__zFpkWT7etXfdpou72ugqXw&m=9z7lr8oUsb8YkqLaTv6CZL20OXV96a8hlIoTt82spVJl80QnsOyLWNfG3OZTLiOW&s=qLn1rBRuZPe3BwB8SUJH4AiXeze4moljc7vIOEbDgiA&e=]

Robert F. McNichol and Davis M. McNichol are registered representatives of and offer securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. OSJ: 3825 Edwards Road, Suite 210, Cincinnati, OH 45209. 513.579.8555.

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The Changing Financial Landscape for Same-Sex Couples https://steadmanfinancial.com/same-sex-marriage-impact-financial-planning/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=same-sex-marriage-impact-financial-planning Tue, 26 Jun 2018 08:00:59 +0000 https://www.steadmanfinancial.com/?p=8140 Amie Fox CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, is a Partner, Financial Planner and member of Steadman’s LGBTQ Resource Team The 2015 Supreme Court’s landmark ruling granting same-sex couples the constitutional right to marry was a day of jubilation for the LGBTQ community.  It was a decision that was years in the making and afforded LGBTQ couples the […]

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Amie Fox CFP®, ChFC, CLTC, is a Partner, Financial Planner and member of Steadman’s LGBTQ Resource Team

The 2015 Supreme Court’s landmark ruling granting same-sex couples the constitutional right to marry was a day of jubilation for the LGBTQ community.  It was a decision that was years in the making and afforded LGBTQ couples the same rights, benefits, and protections as heterosexual couples.  Many in the financial planning world, suggested an end to the need for LGBT specialist financial advice. The thinking being that the ruling created a level playing field for income taxes, estate planning and spousal benefits (like social security) deeming the financial planning needs of LGBTQ couples equivalent to their heterosexual counterparts.

That was three years ago, almost to the day.  So, what changes have I seen in my financial planning practice?

It would be true to say that for my LGBTQ clients who have since entered legally recognized marriages (who incidentally tell me they still want advice from an LGBTQ specialist), their financial lives have been somewhat simplified.  It’s undoubtedly easier for them to file tax returns and sort their insurance coverage. When it comes to estate planning, however, little has changed.  There is definitely the potential for the estate planning process to be easier but the vast majority of my clients have opted to cover all eventualities and go through the same rigors and documentation as was required before same-sex marriages, and before DOMA was overturned.  This is largely due to their desire to protect themselves from unsupportive family members (typically from the wider family) and/or out of concern that the law will be repealed.

Lagging When it Comes to Comfortableness in Approaching and Working with Financial Planners

I have also found that despite all the progress that has been made, LGBT individuals and couples are still lagging when it comes to their comfortableness in approaching and working with financial planners.  They recognize that they need financial help but don’t know where to turn.  In a world where social inequality is still a big issue, they are fearful of being judged and not accepted for who they are.  Some believe our industry, rightly or wrongly, is still often perceived to be a “boys’ club” dominated by male, white conservatives and this holds many back.

For those that do seek out a planner, typically they ask for recommendations from their friends.  Many hit a brick wall as most of their LGBT friends have never used a financial planner, tell stories of financial planners who made them feel uncomfortable about who they were or simply didn’t possess the know-how to accommodate their needs.  Without a recommendation, they sometimes progress to an online search for reputable “LGBT-friendly” planners. Seems like a lot of work – and some stop after they ask others and get nowhere.  Unfortunately, for those who find a financial planner on the web, it is my experience that one of the partners comes to the first meeting on their own to check out if it’s a safe space before involving their partner.   It’s worrying to see that this extra level of fear still exists and holds back so many in the community.  When you come into my office I need you to be exactly who you are so I can best help you and those you care about.  On the positive side, my firm and other LGBT-friendly firms are welcoming, supportive and understand the sometimes subtle but meaningful differences in the lives of our clients that need to be taken into consideration.

An Increase in LGBT People in Their 50s Looking for Financial Advice

I have seen an increase in LGBT people in their 50s approaching me for advice.  With more couples marrying later in life, they are looking to combine their assets and want the advice of a LGBT-friendly planner to help them prepare for their financial future together.  Particularly they want help navigating the difficult questions and challenges they face.  For example, for years while they may have been emotionally connected, they haven’t been financially connected and this is a big change for them.  It’s also quite typical that one person out of the couple is divorced and may have children from a previous life which presents significant considerations and adds a layer of complexity to their planning.  In addition to couples, I am seeing more LGBTQ people in their 50s who aren’t married seeking my help.  By the time they reach 50, they become more conscious of the clock ticking and are concerned about their lack of financial preparedness.  They come to me to see if there is any wiggle room to improve their financial outlook, while still being able to spend as they wish.   Their top priority is nearly always figuring out what they need to do to help prepare for their imminent retirement years and reducing debt.

Young LGBT Notable in their Absence

What is notable, in its absence, is the number of young LGBTQ people I see in my practice, a trend I also see in the heterosexual population, but which is more marked in the LGBTQ community.  I believe that this is largely fueled by a misconception that, to work with a financial planner, you need to have lots of money to invest from the beginning. However, financial planning addresses all needs and concerns.  It helps you to create your roadmap toward your financial success – and we all start from scratch at some point.  Some of my most active clients today started with me 15 years ago by saving $50 per month.

So, three years in and I can honestly say that, based on my experience, the financial planning landscape has not significantly changed for the LGBT community in which I serve.  I feel there is still work to be done.  We need to do more to support the LGBTQ community and help to break down barriers so that fear is no longer a driving force when it comes to financial planning.  I would advise anyone seeking financial advice to take time to carefully work out their criteria to help ensure their chosen financial planner is a good match.  I have seen the benefits and joy that financial planning has brought to my LGBTQ clients.  It is worth taking that leap and hopefully, with the right financial planner and tools, we will see more LGBTQ people reaching their life and financial goals.


Amie Fox joined the financial services industry in 2001 and serves as a financial planner and senior partner with Steadman Financial Group in its Cleveland office.  Amie is a member of Steadman’s LGBTQ Resource Team. She provides gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered clients with the proper tools and resources to fit each individual’s or couple’s unique planning needs.

Amie L. Fox is a registered representative of and offers securities, investment advisory, and financial planning services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. OSJ: 2012 W. 25th Street, Suite 900, Cleveland, OH 44113. 216-621-5680.

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