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  1. Authors
  2. Cathleen McCarthy

Cathleen McCarthy

Former Senior Editor, Credit Cards
  • Twitter Icon
  • LinkedIn Icon
Ribbon Icon EXPERTISE
  • Rewards strategy
  • Small business marketing
Education Icon EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of arts degree in journalism, the University of Maryland

 

Highlights

  • Journalist published in dozens of magazines, newspapers and websites
  • Founder and editor of The Jewelry Loupe
  • Speaker and writer specializing in small-business marketing, travel and credit

Experience

After receiving her B.A. in magazine journalism from the University of Maryland, Cathleen worked as a staff editor for consumer and trade magazines before becoming a full-time freelance writer.

Her stories on design, travel and business have appeared in dozens of publications including the Washington Post, Town & Country, Wall Street Journal, Marie Claire, Fodor’s Travel, Departures and The Writer. In 2009, she launched The Jewelry Loupe, a magazine-style blog that now has more than 25,000 followers around the world. Cathleen writes and speaks about marketing creative small businesses.

Media

"Opening a Storefront" for the Jewelry Business Forum last month and building a brand at NYNOW last year.

Business

Blog: https://thejewelryloupe.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/thejewelryloupe/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/thejewelryloupe
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thejewelryloupe

Cathleen's latest articles

  • 7 tips for traveling with friends using travel rewards

    Booking travel with friends can be tricky when using different rewards programs.

    8 min read Nov 08, 2024
  • She checks smart phone for direction. Mountains in distance

    How I combined Amex rewards to book a trip for two to Greece

    How I combined Amex cards to book a trip for two to Greece.

    4 min read Oct 18, 2023
  • mother and young daughter shopping together in a store

    Why you should have money conversations with your children early

    Talking money with your kids can help them become financially responsible adults.

    4 min read Dec 08, 2023
  • Woman checking smartphone while shopping

    Why I’m skipping Black Friday for Small Business Saturday

    This year, I want to be intentional about shopping small.

    4 min read Nov 13, 2023
  • close up of hands paying with a computer

    Why I pay my rent with a credit card

    Charging rent on a credit card has drawbacks. But given the amount Americans pay for rent, there’s a strong incentive to earn rewards.

    5 min read Oct 16, 2023
  • close up of a woman holding a smartphone and a credit card

    How I use credit cards to combat inflation

    When prices go up, credit cards can help you keep costs down. Here’s how one personal finance expert is using her airline credit card to save money and combat inflation.

    3 min read Aug 11, 2023
  • people in a grocery store

    How to grocery shop during a recession

    What to buy, when to shop and how to earn rewards on groceries

    3 min read Jul 27, 2023
  • couple sitting on hotel room balcony

    Cards that get you top-tier hotel elite status via card spending

    Whether you’re a business traveler or taking the family on a much-needed vacation, having elite status can pay off.

    6 min read Jun 30, 2023
  • Young couple discussing over financial bills while using laptop on sofa

    How avoiding your statements might be causing your debt

    Avoiding accounts is common. But If you don’t look, the bad news just gets worse.

    5 min read Feb 01, 2023
  • Man on laptop working

    U.S. Bank set to launch new mid-tier business travel card, the Business Altitude Connect

    The U.S. Bank Business Altitude Connect World Elite Mastercard joins three other business cards currently available from the issuer.

    3 min read Jan 19, 2023
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  • Man taking notes in an office environment

    Best short-term bond funds in October 2025

    Looking to earn a decent return with low risk? Consider these short-term bond funds.

    2 min read Oct 03, 2025
  • Design element displaying a illustrated credit card with a mouse cursor clicking on it.

    How to pick the right credit card for you

    A quick guide on how to choose a credit card that fits your goals and spending.

    11 min read Oct 02, 2025
  • woman looking back at camera in an airplane with a backpack on

    Could a one world currency work?

    A unified global currency could transform trade but faces complex economic and political hurdles.

    6 min read Mar 20, 2025
  • closeup of front window of vehicle shattered

    Her wallet was stolen from her vehicle, but auto insurance didn’t cover it — here’s why

    Misconceptions about your home and auto insurance policies could cost you.

    7 min read Mar 20, 2025
  • Young man works at kitchen table with laptop and smartphone

    Why you can still be on the hook for credit card charges you didn’t make… and how to avoid it

    Bankrate spoke to several credit experts to find out how consumers can protect themselves.

    6 min read Mar 20, 2025
  • High school student fills out form

    How to add schools to the FAFSA

    Adding schools ensures that you receive financial aid for college.

    3 min read Feb 17, 2025
  • Tax credits vs. tax deductions

    Tax credits vs. tax deductions: What’s the difference?

    Tax credits and tax deductions can both be valuable at tax time, but it helps to know how they differ.

    3 min read Jan 06, 2025
  • 3D render of vast collection of uniform gold bars

    Gold IRA: What it is and how it works

    Thinking of opening a gold IRA? What investors should know.

    3 min read Jan 06, 2025
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