Leading Financial Decision Making Experts

Baruch Mann is an independent financial expert and commentator focused on consumer finance, investing, and personal wealth decision-making. He specializes in analyzing banking products, credit cards, investment platforms, and alternative assets, helping consumers understand costs, risks, and long-term trade-offs before making financial decisions. With years of hands-on experience reviewing financial products and market offerings, Baruch is known for breaking down complex financial topics into clear, practical insights grounded in real use cases and data. His work emphasizes transparency, fair comparisons, and consumer-first analysis rather than promotional narratives.

Edita Evoyan is a financial coach and business mentor who helps professionals and families make clearer, more confident decisions about money. With a background in architecture and interior design, she brings a unique, systems-based approach to financial strategy: simplifying complexity, building structure, and helping people design plans that align with real life goals. In her work, Edita focuses on practical financial education, retirement planning concepts, risk awareness, and long-term wealth-building habits. She’s known for translating intimidating financial topics into simple language, helping audiences cut through noise, misinformation, and overly technical advice. Edita also mentors and trains aspiring financial professionals on communication, leadership, and building an education-first business with integrity and compliance in mind. She frequently speaks on the mindset shift from employee to owner, creating additional income streams, and building scalable skills without sacrificing family priorities. Media outlets typically feature Edita for approachable commentary on financial confidence, modern wealth habits, retirement planning basics, and the real-world behaviors that drive better outcomes.

Nick is a fee-only financial planner and founder of ClearMind Capital, where he works with individuals and families navigating major life and financial transitions. He has spent 8+ years in the financial planning profession, advising clients on retirement planning, tax strategy, investment design, and long-term decision-making. Nick earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation in April 2023 and also holds the ChFC® and CLU® designations. He is a founding member of the Integrative Wealth Advisor (IWA®) designation, a newly launched professional standard focused on aligning financial planning with broader life priorities and well-being. He is frequently sought out for his ability to explain nuanced financial topics...such as retirement readiness, Social Security planning, portfolio construction, and the behavioral side of money—in a way that is clear, grounded, and accessible. Nick brings real-world context and thoughtful perspective to personal finance, making him a trusted resource for journalists seeking clarity, insight, and meaningful analysis.

Dr. Maria James, PhD, known as The Money Scientist, is the founder of Pocket of Money and the creator of W.I.S.E. Financial Fitness, a science-led approach to personal and workplace financial wellness. With more than 19 years of experience designing and managing financial systems, Dr. James helps individuals and organizations move beyond budgeting advice to measurable, behavior-based financial improvement. Trained as a cellular and molecular medicine scientist, Dr. James applies the same evidence-based thinking, analytical rigor, and protocol-driven methodology used in medical research to money management. While completing her PhD, she tested and refined her own financial systems, saving over $10,000 on a $23,000 after-tax stipend, proving that financial outcomes improve when decisions are guided by data, structure, and repeatable processes rather than motivation alone. Through her work, Dr. James has helped clients identify financial “leakage,” reduce chronic overspending, and reclaim thousands of dollars per month, often without increasing income. Her work focuses on cash-flow optimization, decision science, and sustainable habit change, making her approach especially effective for high-stress professionals and organizations seeking scalable financial wellness solutions. Dr. James has been featured as a financial wellness expert in Forbes, ESSENCE, MadameNoire, The Frugal Feminista, WEAA 88.9, Clever Girl Finance Podcast, and Journey to Launch Podcast, among others. Her contributions to financial education and innovation have earned national and international recognition, including: Best Personal Finance Business – USA, Worldwide Finance Awards (2023) Excellence Award in Personal Finance Consulting, World Finance Awards (2022) Citation from the Maryland House of Delegates for dedication to financial literacy (2021) Money Management Innovator of the Year – Most Inspirational Woman in Financial Services (2019) Dr. James’ mission is to make financial wellness practical, measurable, and repeatable so people can stop guessing with their money and start managing it with confidence and clarity.

As the CEO and Founder of Crusaders for Change® (C4C), LLC, our team delivers a specialized approach to financial stewardship that focuses on the human heart and the emotional weight of money as much as the numbers. Led by a team of Accredited Financial Counselors®️, we have built a dedicated space where genuine financial healing and long-term freedom are achievable for families from all walks of life. Within the corporate and organizational sector, we developed our signature Financial Wellness Program to directly combat the "silent tax" of financial stress that often plagues the workplace. By addressing these stressors through professional counseling and support, we partner with businesses to improve employee retention, boost productivity, and foster a culture of total well-being. Our commitment to community impact is further realized through our proprietary Community Financial Empowerment Series®, where we offer transformative educational workshops and personalized one-on-one counseling designed to help individuals regain confidence, clarity, and control over their financial futures. We also engage a global audience through the Yahweh’s Money® Podcast, which provides spiritual and practical stewardship guidance, and the Tickle My Money Bone!® platform, which utilizes humor and comedy to demystify complex financial topics and break down the barriers of money-related anxiety. With over two decades of professional experience and a highly decorated history of leadership, our mission remains centered on equipping families and organizations with the tools to transition from financial overwhelm to a future of abundance, resilience, and intentional peace.

Paul Gillooly is a financial specialist and the Director of Dot Dot Loans, with over ten years of experience in subprime lending. With extensive knowledge of consumer finance in the UK, Paul is a reliable individual in the bad credit lending sector. At DotDotLoans.co.uk, he helps individuals with poor credit scores find appropriate lenders who can provide financial help. Paul also offers guidance on improving financial management and building better credit scores.

I'm a specialist commercial finance broker with 16 years of experience helping Australian business owners access commercial property finance. As founder of Smart Business Plans, I've overseen $550 million in commercial finance across more than 3,300 clients, with a 92% approval rate working across a panel of 60+ specialist lenders. My expertise sits at the intersection of commercial property, business finance, and wealth strategy — particularly for small to medium business owners looking to buy their own premises, invest through their SMSF, or fund development projects. I work exclusively in the commercial space, which means I specialise where the major banks often can't or won't go. I'm also the author of The Premise Effect (2026), which makes the case for why Australian business owners are leaving millions on the table by renting rather than owning their business premises. I'm available to comment on: commercial property finance, SMSF borrowing, business lending, commercial mortgage rates, Australian property market trends, and small business wealth building.

Damon Paull, AWMA® - Financial Advisor, Best-Selling Author, Military Veteran As a wealth management advisor and Amazon best-selling author in Money and Business, Damon Paull brings a military precision to financial journalism. His recent collaboration with former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss on "Empathetic Leadership" shows he can take complex financial concepts and turn them into stories that resonate with everyone. With over 8 years of industry experience and a background as a Marine Corps veteran and State Department contractor, Damon writes about: • Intergenerational wealth transfer • Corporate benefit plan optimization • Investment portfolio construction • Business succession planning • Veteran financial empowerment • Global market analysis through a geopolitical lens As a Wealth Management Advisor at Cetera Investors, Damon’s expertise goes beyond traditional financial planning. He uses cutting-edge financial technology and analysis tools to bring you fresh perspectives on emerging trends and investment opportunities. His writing style is data-driven with a storyline, making complex financial concepts accessible to sophisticated investors and general audiences. Regular contributor to discussions on wealth preservation, market dynamics and financial technology. Damon welcomes opportunities to provide professional commentary and in-depth analysis for financial publications looking for expert opinions on wealth management and investment strategies. For editorial inquiries or commentary: Damon Paull, AWMA Damon.Paull@ceterainvestors.com 832.535.2286 Glen Allen, VA Available for national and international commentary Cetera Investors. Damon Paull, Wealth Management Advisor. Securities and Insurance Products offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. 140 EASTSHORE DR. SUITE 105, GLEN ALLEN, VA 23059. 804-346-4670. The opinions expressed are those of the writer, not recommendations of Cetera Investment Services LLC or its representatives.

I help women, young professionals, and growing families achieve financial independence through clear, strategic planning that considers tax, estate, and investment decisions so they can make informed choices and build lasting stability. My role is part guide, part partner. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® professional, I combine structured, values-based strategies with compassion and education, helping clients understand not just what to do, but why it matters. Knowledge creates confidence, and confidence leads to better decisions that last. Financial independence isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, it means building wealth through tax-aware investing. For others, it’s protecting family through thoughtful estate planning, or regaining control after major life changes. My approach brings all the pieces together, ensuring your plan reflects your values, goals, and vision for the future. I frequently collaborate with accountants and attorneys to help clients develop integrated, well-aligned strategies. Clients appreciate my relationship-based approach, open communication, and the safe, judgment-free space to ask questions. Together, we simplify complex decisions and create strategies that lead to lasting progress and clarity. At WiseOak Wealth, financial planning isn’t just about managing assets. It’s about creating freedom, stability, and direction in the life you’re building.

Patrick Höfliger is the founder and CEO of a Swiss AI company applying advanced artificial intelligence to private-equity, M&A, and other high-stakes investment decisions. With more than ten years in investment banking and private equity, he brings first-hand experience from roles that demand trust, rigor, and accountability. He focuses on how AI is reshaping decision-making in finance beyond automation, emphasizing explainability, traceability, and reliability. Patrick is a frequent speaker and sparring partner on the real-world limits and risks of generative AI in professional settings. He is available to comment on AI, investing, and the future of automating complex decision-making.

James Vanreusel spent 8 years with a Wall Street investment bank. He generated around $8 Million in annual sales through his relationships with hedge and mutual funds, before moving into private equity and asset management. After leaving Wall Street, he became a CFA Charterholder and went on to found three microfinance banks in the South Pacific. He also created a holding company based in Singapore that delivered growth at 600%. In 2014, he moved to San Francisco and set up Vanreusel Ventures: a team of CFO consultants and financial analysts, working with for-profit and non-profit clients across the US. They help emerging companies to grow and scale, by building teams and systems that will expand with the business. All while developing the finance skills and mindset of the CEO. The result is a framework to see the business through the early years, in readiness for its first full-time CFO. The #1 Key To Creating A Thriving Business is James’ first book – drawing on the first 20 years of a career that’s taken him deep into the world’s financial markets. Here is a link for your free book: https://vanreuselventures.com/free-book/

I work with busy successful individuals and families who are looking to take control of their financial future without getting bogged down in confusing details. With over 13 years of experience, I help high earners and those approaching retirement make smart, impactful decisions confidently. As a flat-fee fiduciary, my mission is clear: to provide you with honest, personalized guidance that brings peace of mind. If you're unsure about hiring a financial advisor, let’s hop on a call. I’ll guide you on the right questions to ask, so you can confidently find the perfect advisor for your needs, no strings attached.

Director of Investment Research and Portfolio Manager at a Registered Investment Advisor with specific expertise in asset allocation, fixed income, equities, third-party manager due diligence, risk management, and financial planning. Well versed in ESG and mission-driven investing and analysis. Successful record of maximizing portfolio returns and profits through well developed financial research and quantitative analysis, project management, and client development. Experienced volunteer at nonprofit organizations. CFP certification and Wharton MBA.

I am the Founder of Bountisphere, a personal money management platform designed to help Americans regain control of their money. My background is unique in Fintech: I hold a PhD in Classical Studies and have years of experience in AI and Behavioral Science. I realized that traditional budgeting apps fail because they ignore human psychology. That is why I built Bountisphere to turn the tangle of everyday money management into a simple Money Calendar. We combine behavioral insights with AI-powered coaching to help users stop looking backward at their expenses and start forecasting their future daily balances. Prior to Bountisphere: I was the inaugural COO at Memre.ai, bringing advanced learning algorithms to market. I served as Founding Editor of Westbrae Literary Group. I am available to comment on: The psychological shift from "Tracking" to "Forecasting." Why "Financial Peace of Mind" requires visualizing the future, not just budgeting the present. How AI is changing personal finance for Americans.

A founding partner at Chesapeake Financial Planners, Jeff Judge is a seasoned guide for busy professionals navigating financial transitions. With nearly two decades of experience, Jeff specializes in helping clients manage complexity during pivotal moments like retirement, business exits, and sudden wealth events. Known for his calm, empathetic approach, he helps clients gain clarity and control through Chesapeake’s signature R.U.D.D.E.R. Method™. Jeff holds multiple advanced designations, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®), and Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®). He’s been recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager in Baltimore Magazine from 2017 through 2026. In addition, Chesapeake Financial Planners has provided educational outreach including leading financial literacy workshops for Fortune 500 and mid-sized companies throughout the Baltimore and DC metro areas. Shaped by his working-class roots and early experience juggling financial responsibilities, Jeff brings grounded empathy and professional-level clarity to every client conversation. When he’s not advising, he’s a passionate home cook, lover of Baltimore sports, fan of concerts and stand-up comedy, and sideline soccer dad.

With over 18 years of experience in finance, entrepreneurship, and customer success, I am passionate about unleashing human potential and creating value for organizations and individuals. As the CEO of Reveal by Hiring Indicators, I lead a team of experts in developing and delivering a best-in-category app that helps employers and candidates find the best fit for their needs and goals. I believe in building trust, service, and success with every interaction, and bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the table.Prior to Reveal, I co-founded and co-own Andreoli Italian Grocer, a renowned restaurant and market that offers authentic and delicious Italian cuisine and products. I oversee the financial and operational aspects of the business, ensuring quality, efficiency, and profitability. I also manage the accounting and economic functions of Carr Assessments, a leading provider of psychological assessments that assist organizations in realizing their human potential. I am skilled in customer success, strategic hiring, entrepreneurship, and finance.

Damodhar Mata is a Dubai-based financial advisor who is often quoted in Gulf News on topics related to financial planning, investments, and insurance. He provides guidance on budgeting, saving, and investing, particularly for UAE residents. He has also been featured in other publications like Khaleej Times. Here's a more detailed look at his work: Financial Planning: Damodhar Mata specializes in holistic financial planning, investments, and insurance. Budgeting and Savings: He offers advice on how to manage finances, create budgets, and save effectively, especially for those living in the UAE. Overspending in Dubai: He has commented on the issue of overspending among some UAE residents, particularly due to factors like discount offers and easy access to credit, according to a Gulf News report. Home Insurance: He has also discussed the importance of home insurance for homeowners in the UAE. Regularly Featured in Media: His insights are regularly featured in Gulf News and Khaleej Times. Nexus Insurance Brokers: He is a senior consultant at Nexus Insurance Brokers.

Gentry is the founder, CEO, and acting BSA officer of Crew, a fintech focused on providing a banking experience that helps families and individuals track, control, and save their money. He has almost two decades of experience in tech product management. Before Crew he was the Head of Product at Divvy, a fintech focused on corporate credit cards and expense management, which grew to $400m in revenue and was acquired for $2.5b. During that time he was focused on improving the company's know-your-customer, fraud prevention, and underwriting efforts. He strongly believes that maintaining trust and helping people with their finances is a social responsibility that should determine every customer interaction and product-development decision. He is an authority on personal finance, budgeting, automation, fintechs, family banking, banking regulations, and predatory finance.

Minh Pham, CFA, is a is a senior technology and finance leader with expertise in enterprise technology commercialization, strategic partnerships, and U.S. market expansion. With nearly a decade of experience across Big Tech and high-growth companies including eBay, DoorDash, and WarnerBros Discovery, he has shaped financial strategy behind decisions totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, including a $300M acquisition analysis at eBay and a P&L build that drove $60M in revenue growth at DoorDash. Minh currently serves as a Senior Finance Manager at Microsoft, where he supports large‑scale technology businesses through strategic financial planning, investment evaluation, and commercialization decisions. Minh frequently provides expert perspectives on AI hardware trends, global tech competition, and the financial engines behind Big Tech innovation. He is particularly interested in how data, finance, and AI intersect to drive the next wave of global technology transformation.

I founded Commercial Funding Partners in 2012 with a clear mission: build a performing portfolio of customers who return because we treat them right and help them grow responsibly. After six years at a competitor and seeing how customers were often handled at deal end, I knew there was a better way to do business in commercial equipment finance. We’re a national direct lender with capacity from $250,000 to over $100 million per project, serving manufacturers, contractors, healthcare providers, transportation companies, and others across the U.S. What sets us apart is speed paired with judgment. Our small, senior-level finance committee allows us to make decisions quickly—often the same day—and months faster than SBA processes, where time value often outweighs minor rate differences. We listen to the story behind the balance sheet and underwrite context, not just numbers. We structure real-world solutions through progress funding, 100% project financing, sale-leasebacks, and tax-aware terms that banks often can’t provide. We don’t do deals we wouldn’t sign ourselves. Over 40% of our business comes from repeat clients, many with long-standing relationships that improve with each transaction. I’m active in industry leadership with ELFA, NEFA, and AACFB, where I chaired the Education Committee for four years and received the President’s Award. Before CFP, I worked at IBM and helped manage and grow Plumbers Supply Company through its acquisition by Wolseley. I hold a BS from the University of Utah and an MBA from Westminster College. Our goal is simple: be the first call for our customers and help great businesses grow smarter and faster.