Tue, April 29, 2025

Building Wealth Through Art Investments with Hall Rockefeller

I am joined this week by the remarkable Hall Rockefeller. Hall is a sixth-generation member of the iconic Rockefeller family and an entrepreneur reimagining how women can invest in and support female artists through her business, Lesson Half. Today, we dive deep into her journey from growing up on the Upper East Side of Manhattan to becoming a passionate advocate for women artists and art investors. You'll hear about Hall's early entrepreneurial ventures, all of which foreshadowed her future as a business owner. Hall shares her transition from retail work to art writing and how the pandemic unexpectedly kickstarted her personal art collection. She explains her mission of developing a "matronage" philosophy—not just about women buying art by women artists, but creating substantive, holistic engagement with their careers over time. Listen as Hall talks about the importance of financial literacy for women, the potential returns on art investment, and how collecting art can be both personally fulfilling and financially rewarding. Hall's story is a testament to finding your unique path at the intersection of passion and purpose while creating space for women to build wealth through value-aligned investments. Key Topics: Growing up in the Rockefeller family and how that legacy inspired Hall's entrepreneurial spirit Hall's childhood business ventures and early money mindset around saving Navigating life after college and searching for work that provided both intellectual stimulation and creative problem-solving The transition from retail work to writing about art and founding Lesson Half How the pandemic created space for Hall to begin collecting art The "matronage" philosophy and empowering women to invest in female artists Looking at art as an alternative asset class with examples of significant returns How Hall approaches advising clients on art purchases and investment decisions Balancing legacy wealth with personal financial decisions and business investments The legacy Hall hopes to create in promoting female creativity across all mediums The joy of spending on home decor, craft, and vintage fashion Connect with Hall online: Websites: https://lessthanhalf.org/ Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , @gett

Thu, April 24, 2025

The Balancing Act of Corporate Success and Creative Fulfillment with Kate Cannova

I am joined this week by the brilliant Kate Cannova. Kate is a powerhouse Broadway producer with a fascinating dual career path that has allowed her to pursue her creative passions while maintaining financial stability. In this episode, Kate shares her journey from being a young performer in Broadway shows to navigating the corporate world while building her producing career. You'll hear about Kate's early money mindset growing up in a traditional Italian-American family, her formative experiences that instilled a fierce desire for financial independence, and how she strategically planned each phase of her professional life. Kate opens up about her education at USC, her transition into corporate America, and how she balanced demanding corporate jobs with her continued work in theater. She details her bold decision to leave the corporate world to focus entirely on her production company, the devastating impact of the pandemic just months later, and how she pivoted to working alongside her husband in his auto parts business while continuing to produce Broadway shows. Listen as Kate explains her approach to democratizing Broadway investing by targeting at least 40% of women and people of color in her productions and ensuring that at least 50% are first-time Broadway investors. Her insights on maintaining separate finances in marriage, her philosophy on investing in arts and culture, and finding balance in a demanding dual-career life offer valuable lessons for anyone pursuing their passions while building financial security. Key Topics: Growing up in a traditional Italian-American family and how that shaped Kate's perspective on money and work ethic Starting work at age 11 as a performer in a Broadway show and developing financial independence early Strategically planning career moves while maintaining financial security Balancing corporate success with pursuing creative passions in theater The experience of leaving a secure corporate job and pivoting during the pandemic Democratizing Broadway investing by increasing participation from women and people of color Managing unconventional work arrangements with her husband while maintaining separate finances Connect with Kate online: Website: https://www.wheelership.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecannova/ Instagram: @kate.cannova   Find more from Syama Bunten: <p dir="ltr"

Tue, April 22, 2025

How To Build Wealth While Making a Meaningful Impact with Stephanie Skryzowski

I am joined this week by the incredible Stephanie Skryzowski, founder of 100 Degrees Consulting, which has been helping nonprofit leaders grow and expand into their fullest potential for years. Stephanie isn't just a successful business founder—she's passionate about increasing wealth while making a meaningful impact. In this inspiring conversation, Stephanie shares her journey from childhood entrepreneurship to becoming a CFO at 28 and eventually launching her thriving consulting business. She opens up about her early career pivoting away from law, discovering her purpose in nonprofit finance, and how she built a successful company while prioritizing impact and financial abundance. Stephanie challenges the common nonprofit mindset that you must sacrifice financial well-being to do meaningful work, arguing instead that we can "ditch the scarcity mindset" and thrive while serving causes we care about. She reveals how she's built her business to support nonprofits while creating financial freedom for herself and her team. Don't miss her powerful insights on building a profitable business model, making strategic decisions like selling off a portion of her company, and embracing the limitless potential of entrepreneurship! Key Topics: Her childhood entrepreneurial spirit and creative money-making ventures The career pivot that led her from law to nonprofit finance Challenging the "martyr to the mission" mentality in nonprofit work Building a profitable business model serving mission-driven organizations Making the strategic decision to sell off a portion of her business Embracing abundance and seeing no ceiling on wealth potential Creating a legacy of financial empowerment, especially for women   Connect with Stephanie online: Website: 100 Degrees Consulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieskryzowski/   Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , @gettingrichpod Website: https://syamabunten.com/ Download Syama's Guide to Gett

Tue, April 15, 2025

Building Financial Confidence and Parallel Infrastructure for Women with Sherry Finkel Murphy, CEO & Founder of Madrina Molly

I am joined this week by the fearless and powerful Sherry Finkel Murphy. As the CEO and founder of Madina Molly, Sherry helps people navigate financial education and planning, empowering women to gain confidence in their financial decisions and build secure futures. Today, we dive deep into Sherry's journey from her beginnings as a latchkey kid in suburban New York to becoming a trailblazer in wealth management. You'll hear about Sherry's early exposure to strong work ethics, watching her father work six days a week at his hardware store while her mother pursued her own business career after graduating from NYU. Sherry shares her first entrepreneurial experiences, starting with a 4:30 AM shift at a bagel bakery, and how her early money mindset shaped her approach to financial independence. She reveals her mother's pivotal advice that led her to purchase her first condo at just 24 years old, and how an unexpected bet with a college friend redirected her career toward the emerging field of computing. Listen as Sherry discusses breaking glass ceilings in technology sales, developing her concept of a "forget you fund" that enabled career pivots, and her transition into financial services. Sherry's story illustrates the power of financial independence and how she's using her experience to help women build parallel infrastructures in a system that wasn't designed for them. This conversation is filled with wisdom on retirement planning for 100-year lives, building legacies through philanthropy, and creating financial confidence that allows women to sleep at night. Sherry's journey reminds us that financial education isn't just about money—it's about freedom, empowerment, and creating the life you want on your own terms. Key Topics: Growing up as a latchkey kid in suburban New York and how that shaped Sherry's work ethic and perception around money Early financial independence with her first property purchase at age 24 following her mother's empowering advice How a college bet led to an unexpected career pioneering in the early days of computing Breaking glass ceilings in male-dominated technology sales and the importance of self-advocacy The concept of a "forget you fund" and how it enabled career pivots and mid-career sabbaticals Transitioning from technology executive to financial planner and launching Madina Molly Building parallel financial infrastructu

Thu, April 10, 2025

Making a Difference Through Angel Investing with Marcia Dawood, Angel Investor and Author

I am joined this week by the incredible Marcia Dawood, an accomplished angel investor who's changing the way we think about capital and investing. Marcia is a powerful voice for inclusive, values-driven investing and she is here today to support us in understanding and applying the value of investing to build capital. In this enlightening conversation, Marcia shares how her father taught her budgeting at age nine, setting the foundation for her financial philosophy of "always live below your means." We explore her journey from retail buying to a 17-year career at Kaplan, discussing the champions who believed in her and how she navigated corporate America as a woman. Marcia reveals her path to angel investing, how she created targeted "money buckets" for different investments, and the unique perspective she gained experiencing angel ecosystems across multiple U.S. cities. Her mission to democratize investing access, especially for women, is inspiring and practical. Don't miss her vision for creating more "financial fluidity" that allows people to align their money with their values and support innovations they want to see in the world! Key Topics: Early money lessons from her father that shaped her financial foundation Her 17-year career journey and the importance of having champions in the workplace How she started angel investing and overcame initial misconceptions Creating financial "buckets" for different purposes and risk levels Her unique perspective from experiencing angel investing in different U.S. cities Her mission to democratize access to angel investing, especially for women Finding joy in generosity and the alignment of money with personal values   Connect with Marcia Dawood: Websites: Angel Nextdoor Podcast Marcia's Website Book: "Doing Good While Doing Well" LinkedIn: Marcia Dawood   Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , @gettingrichpod <p

Tue, April 08, 2025

How Emma Tessler Built Her Social Media Marketing Agency on a Train, with Emma Tessler, Founder of Ninety Five Media

Join me as I sit down with the incredible Emma Tessler, the founder and CEO of Ninety Five Media, and host of the podcast Stop Scrolling, Start Scaling. In this episode, we discuss Emma's impressive and early rise to success as well as her life journey that encompasses values, money, and gratitude. Emma's story is filled with early examples of leadership and initiative, from self-organizing fundraisers as a child to managing part-time jobs in high school while maintaining stellar academic records.    She shares her early passion for interior design after taking a class in high school, which eventually led to her attending the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology. Despite knowing her career path pretty clearly, she opens up about how she navigated the challenge of following this passion to NYC, where she barely made enough to cover living expenses.    She reveals how this struggle opened up the doors for her to build Ninety Five Media, her social media marketing empire, while she commuted on the train to and from the city. Moving away from the interior design world wasn’t always part of the plan, but the pandemic had other things in store for her.   Emma also opens up about the significance of financial planning as an entrepreneur, how she set herself up for success early on, and her approach to earning, spending, and investing her money, including celebrating milestones with meaningful purchases.  Key Topics: Having a self-starting mentality from childhood Getting eager to get into the workforce as early as possible Emma’s first lessons in taxes with her first paychecks as a young girl Feeling like everyone else had everything figured out in high school and how she leveraged that into her passion for interior design Getting offered a job at the firm she interned at before she even graduated college Navigating life in NYC that didn’t pay enough to cover living expenses How she spent a 4-hour-per-day commute building her online marketing business Embracing a “what’s the worst that can happen?” mentality while building her business How the pandemic shook the interior design and marketing industry to its core Making the plan to leave her interior design job to go all in on her business The support systems Emma leaned on to help get her business off the ground Getting serious about saving, investing, and planning for retirement Doing

Tue, April 01, 2025

Rewiring Your Money Mentality for Ultimate Personal Growth with Stephanie Kwong, Founder of Rapid Rewire Method

Please join me in welcoming the brilliant Stephanie Kwong, an esteemed entrepreneur, founder, and self-healing extraordinaire. Stephanie shares her incredible journey of mastering her mind and life while also helping others discover their best selves.    Stephanie opens up about her challenging childhood, growing up with immigrant parents from China. She shares her journey of feeling abandoned and criticized due to her parents' intense work routines and the cultural pressure to succeed. However, these early experiences taught her resilience and shaped her deep desire to work on herself, inspired by her mother’s dedication to personal development despite how uncommon this life path was back in the 80s.   Stephanie’s story of navigating financial highs and lows, working multiple jobs, and learning about investment from a young age showcases her determination and work ethic rooted in her cultural upbringing. Despite initial dreams of entering the entertainment industry, Stephanie realized her true calling through unexpected life events and began paving her way as a life coach, leveraging her extensive background in personal development and psychology.    As we explore Stephanie's future goals and aspirations, she shares her vision of creating a global impact through her company, Rapid Rewire Method, aiming to soon make transformational tools accessible to underserved communities. Stephanie's journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-work and aligning with one's true purpose while showcasing the profound impact of personal growth on professional success and legacy building. Key Topics: The difficult stories Stephanie had about her childhood and what it taught her about money at a young age The power of watching your parents heal from their own trauma and how it helped Stephanie begin her own personal healing journey Stephanie’s early steps to earn and save money at 15 years old, and how her mom helped her navigate it The early college jobs that later set Stephanie up for success and a more serious career What Stephanie’s host family in a Spain study abroad program taught her about career decisions Moving to LA to try a career in acting — and quickly pivoting to something else Stephanie’s motivation to start sorting through her conditioning and mentality around money The incredible opportunity to move to Italy that changed Stephanie’s career trajectory for good Becoming a certified life coach and how she found ways to get paid experience early on <li dir="ltr" role="presenta

Thu, March 27, 2025

Succeeding In Finance In Spite of Setbacks with Keri Findley, CEO & Founder of Tacora Capital

Please join me in welcoming the brilliant Keri Finley, an esteemed investor, board director, and founder, as she shares her incredible life story and her impressive career in finance with us.    We start with the most impactful moments of Keri's early life in Los Angeles during a recession, where her family's financial struggles ignited a lifelong determination for stability and success. Influenced by her upbringing, Keri showcases how those formative experiences shaped her disciplined approach to money and savings later down the road.    We'll explore how Keri's educational journey set her up for her first job at Morgan Stanley and the pivotal moments that defined her career at Third Point. She discloses her personal investment strategies, where even early on, her bonuses were always earmarked for savings, providing a window into her meticulous financial planning.    Keri was also gracious enough to get vulnerable with us and shared about her early retirement, her move to California, and the challenging personal and professional setbacks she faced. Amidst the founding of Tacora Capital, she found herself in a “dark night of the soul” after facing some bad press, personal and professional betrayal, and the dissolution of her marriage.    Through the darkness, Keri emerged triumphant and learned the importance of aligning with ethical people and the value of genuine relationships as she navigated her new venture. Her remarkable story is not just about financial acumen but also about resilience, integrity, and finding joy and balance through life's trials. Key Topics: Keri’s earliest money memories that shaped her perspective on spending and saving Why Keri took every AP class possible in high school Deciding to attend Columbia University and how she and her family managed to cover the costs of education Prioritizing partying a little too much at the start of university Earning her first job at Morgan Stanley after graduating from Columbia Navigating finances in her early career in NYC How Keri’s early money memories came back to shape her spending and saving habits in adulthood The unique path Keri’s investment journey took as she started her career How to get involved in closed-end funds  Keri’s experience at Third Point managing nearly $4 billion in funds after 9 years How Keri and her partner managed finances and money conversations in their early careers <li dir="ltr" role="present

Tue, March 25, 2025

Breaking the Money Silence: From Microsoft Millionaire to Mindful Philanthropy with Jen Risher

I am joined this week by the incredible Jen Risher, author of "We Need to Talk: A Memoir About Wealth" and co-founder of Half My DAF. Jen is an advocate for open conversations about money and a trailblazer in philanthropy who's helping reshape how people think about giving and investing. Today, we dive deep into Jen's journey from her middle-class upbringing in Seattle to becoming unexpectedly wealthy through her and her husband's early careers at Microsoft and Amazon. You'll hear about Jen's earliest money memories - from picking up leaves for pennies to opening her first bank account at age five - and how these formative experiences shaped her views on saving, investing, and what it means to have wealth. Jen opens up about the emotional complexities of sudden wealth, including the silence and shame she felt when she couldn't discuss her new financial reality with friends. She shares the challenging conversations with family members about money, her fear of being judged for her wealth, and how writing her book helped her process these experiences. Listen as Jen discusses her journey to aligning her investments with her values, her focus on supporting women fund managers of color, and her commitment to economic and racial equity. This conversation is filled with insights about breaking the taboo around money conversations, the importance of self-trust, and how we can all use our resources - whether financial or otherwise - to create positive change in the world. Key Topics: 1. Growing up in Seattle and early money lessons about saving and investing 2. Teaching English in Japan and beginning her investment journey 3. Career path from advertising to Microsoft and meeting her husband 4. The emotional challenges of sudden wealth and the silence around money 5. Using money as a tool: Aligning investments with values and supporting women 6. Learning to say "no" and establishing healthy boundaries with wealth 7. Parenting through wealth and helping her daughters develop their own money stories Connect with Jen online: Websites: https://www.jenrisher.com/ https://halfmydaf.com/ Book: We Need to Talk: A Memoir About Wealth   Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , @gettingrichpod Website: https://syamabunten.com/ Download Syama's Guide to Getting Rich: w

Tue, March 18, 2025

Making Meaningful Change Starts with Shifting Resources with Madeline Darcy, Managing Partner at Kaya Ventures

I am joined this week by the remarkable Madeline Darcy. Madeline is not only an award-winning venture capitalist making waves in the industry but also a generous spirit devoted to empowering women to become financially independent.    Today, we dive deep into her journey from an adventurous and unique upbringing in Australia to becoming a top investor in the U.S. venture capital landscape. You’ll hear about Madeline's early life growing up in an Indigenous community in Australia, her passion for saving from a young age, and how these formative experiences shaped her views on money and investing.   Madeline shares her first jobs, along with how she navigated a new and unfamiliar financial landscape when she moved to the US for university. The important lessons she learned from them ultimately helped set her up for a successful career in consulting and later, venture capital.    Listen as Madeline talks about her transition into launching Kaya Ventures, the risks and rewards involved, and her commitment to investing in areas that empower and uplift women and marginalized communities. Madeline’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic risk-taking. It’s a conversation brimming with insights on how to build wealth, seize opportunities, and make a meaningful impact on our communities and the world.  Key Topics: Growing up in Indigenous communities and how that shaped Madeline’s perception around money and resources Beginning work as early as possible to get control of her financial future Taking on a savings mindset from an early age Moving to the US for part of her university education How Madeline navigated finances and her financial education after moving to the US Learning to leverage a lower cost of living to help set her up for more risk later in her career Transitioning out of consulting into venture capital What it was like going from working with $50 billion companies to companies that had no money The mistakes Madeline made and how she navigated her first few years in venture capital Learning patience through early angel investments Launching Kaya Ventures and the investments the firm was interested in making Managing a high-risk, high-reward phase of life How her parents feel about her career path after seeing her success unfold Motivating people to live bette

Thu, March 13, 2025

Money is a Tool to Unlock Your Greatest Vision with Eva Yazhari, CEO & Founder of Beyond Capital Fund

Please join me in welcoming the gorgeous and prolific Eva Yazzari, founder and CEO of the Beyond Capital Fund, to the show this week. Eva, who has spent the past 15 years driving transformative change through her investment fund, shares her remarkable journey from a precocious child in Staten Island to a powerful venture capitalist investing in emerging markets.    We explore her early money stories, her initial foray into finance, and the profound life experiences that shaped her entrepreneurial spirit and values-driven investment philosophy. Eva recounts her childhood entrepreneurial ventures, including selling bubble gum at a profit, and her ambitious pivot from pre-med to mathematics, which set the groundwork for her future in finance.    She discusses her unconventional path, starting a career in finance before she even graduated college, maneuvering through hedge fund work, and her decisive move to Switzerland during the financial crisis, which was pivotal in her founding the Beyond Capital Fund. Eva candidly reflects on her personal growth, the importance of aligning money with values, and the moment she fully realized her life’s mission.    Eva's inspiring story illuminates the path of marrying profitability with purpose and highlights the significance of building a legacy that transcends mere financial success. Tune in for a deeply reflective and enlightening conversation on how money can serve as a force for good in the world.  Key Topics: A childhood with one foot in the art world, and one foot in the NYC hustle culture Deciding between medicine and mathematics as a degree path Eva’s first step into the finance and investment world at Merrill Lynch Investing in the future, aesthetics, and herself with early career money Finding her footing in the finance world How Eva’s perspectives on money changed as a high-earner Learning to outsource money management — even if you work in finance Moving to Switzerland and starting a new career chapter Getting introspective about money and values Starting a new fund centered around philanthropy and doing more with money Leaving a legacy of building wealth while remaining true to values There’s a difference between enjoying spending money, and spending it to feel worthy     Connect with Eva online:    Websites: h

Tue, March 11, 2025

The Planned Pivots That Helped Jes Wolfe Rise to Entrepreneurial Success with Jes Wolfe, CEO of Rebel Girls

Today I have the immense pleasure of speaking with Jes Wolfe, the remarkable CEO of Rebel Girls, a company dedicated to inspire the next generation of girls to embrace their most confident selves. In this deep dive into Jess’s life, Jes shares her inspiring story from a small-town Oregon upbringing filled with lots of outdoors time to becoming a powerhouse operator and entrepreneur who is making waves in the world of children's literature and female empowerment.    Jes takes us back to her childhood, recounting her early money stories that taught her the value of saving and investing from a young age and ultimately set the groundwork for her future in finance, consulting, and, eventually, entrepreneurship. We journey through her career transitions, from her first job picking blueberries, to impactful roles at Morgan Stanley, the International Finance Corporation, and BCG, to selling her first business and finding her true calling at Rebel Girls.    Throughout the episode, Jess eloquently discusses the importance of long-term thinking in personal finance, the grit required for entrepreneurial success, and her unwavering commitment to supporting women and girls in all her ventures. We also learn valuable lessons in planning out your pivots and taking time to really absorb life to figure out the best move for you and your future.  Key Topics: Growing up in small-town Oregon and the first jobs Jess had as a kid Learning to invest in high school to start saving for her future Taking time to explore the world while decided on a life path The career fair that had Jes dreaming of work in the private finance sector The aha moment of learning how the world works and understanding how to play the game of life Jes’s start at Morgan Stanley out of university How Jes planned her career moves to always be one step ahead The long-term planning and saving that allowed her to graduate from business school debt-free Moving to DC to work for BCG and all the places that job took her Investing in her friends’ success by investing in the companies they worked for Following her desire to build companies through another career pivot Soul-searching in Asia, looking for her new path in life The move to SF that allowed Jes to finally start building things bigger than herself Navigating finances on a smaller salary while building a startup <li d

Tue, March 04, 2025

Becoming a Catalyst of Wealth Building for Women, with Alyssa Arnold, SPV Lead at Cherub & Co-Founder of Pearl Influential Capital

Join me as I sit down with the incredible Alyssa Arnold, a powerhouse in women's investment and empowerment. In this enlightening conversation, Alyssa takes us through her journey from growing up in Houston, Texas, to becoming a pivotal figure in the realm of venture capital.    Alyssa shares her early inspirations to become an engineer through her father, and how her education laid the groundwork for her strategic mindset in business and investments. Alyssa opens up about her transition from a promising corporate career to entrepreneurial success and the eventual co-founding of her consulting firm with her husband.    She discusses the formation of Pearl Influential Capital and her mission to democratize investment opportunities for women by creating Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). Alyssa's insightful reflections on risk, reward, and learning from early investment mistakes are invaluable for anyone looking to venture into the world of finance.    As we explore Alyssa's current endeavors with Cherub, we delve into the importance of network building, the role of education in fostering confident women investors, and her vision for making wealth-building accessible to future generations. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned investor, or someone curious about the intersection of gender and finance, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration.   Key Topics: Following in her dad’s footsteps to become a civil engineer Feeling like she had something to prove in university Alyssa’s initiation into entrepreneurship after having her son Finding excitement in saving and watching her bank account grow in her 20s Navigating the ups and downs of working in the energy sector Alyssa’s first exposure to the world of investing through her coworkers The importance of diversifying deal flow Balancing safety and risk in investments Writing her first investment checks and what she learned from those first experiences Getting strategic about diversifying deal flow Figure out what you absolutely don’t want to invest in, and build a thesis from there Learning the hard way from doing things the wrong way for a long time Going from solo investor to building a business around helping women invest What Alyssa learned from starting Pearl Influential Getting acquired a

Thu, February 27, 2025

Why More Women Need Life-Changing Amounts of Money with Elaine Asher, Co-Founder of EVE Wealth

In this episode, I'm thrilled to sit down with the inspiring Elaine Asher, a powerhouse in educating and empowering women to gain financial independence through investing, especially in alternative assets.    Elaine shared how she grew up being super studious with a heavy emphasis on getting a liberal arts education after high school. We dive deep into Elaine's early memories of money and how the Black Monday stock market crashed in 1987 served as an early lesson in the broad impact the stock market has on society.   Elaine takes us through her diverse career, from non-profit fundraising to private wealth management, eventually leading her to the dynamic world of cryptocurrency. Her mission is clear: to break down barriers and enable more women to participate in all types of investing — especially crypto.    Elaine also discusses her latest venture, Eve Wealth, which aims to simplify and demystify investing in digital assets for women. Tune in to learn about the impactful changes Elaine is making and how you can take steps toward your own financial empowerment.   Key Topics: Early lessons in the volatility of money through the 1987 stock market crash Attending 3 high schools in four years as a type A teenager Choosing a college major for enjoyment vs. out of necessity Cold-calling Wall Street for her first job in 1998 Elaine’s first exposure to the power of investing Learning not what to do with money after her grandfather died An initiation into investing through an inheritance and how it helped drive her career moves Quitting her job to travel Europe Lessons from the wealthy at her fundraising job A desire to get into finance to inspire more women interested in investing Elaine’s journey to working with JP Morgan The breakthrough moment that got her into cryptocurrency investing The untapped opportunities for women with crypto Having a high risk tolerance for investing Going on a mission to educate more women in the power of crypto Starting Eve Wealth and fundraising her startup     Connect with Elaine online:    Website: <a href= "https

Tue, February 25, 2025

From Cozy Vermont Innkeeper to Prolific Investment Expert, with Samantha McLemore, Founder & Managing Member, Patient Capital Management

I am thrilled to have the incredible Sam McLemore on the show this week. Sam is a true champion of empowering women to achieve financial independence and leads a prolific career in investing.    In this episode, we dive deep into Sam’s fascinating life, starting from her childhood in Vermont, where she grew up with parents who had contrasting views on money. These early exposures to money, working from a young age, and navigating financial anxieties shaped her relentless drive to never be dependent on anyone financially.    Sam shares how her father’s introduction to the stock market during her teenage years sparked her interest in investments, which fueled her pursuit of a finance career, eventually working with legendary investor Bill Miller.    Sam's journey is marked by calculated career and investment moves, including buying her first house just a year out of college and trying to live an aspirational life as a Vermont innkeeper` – a challenging yet illuminating experience.    As the founder and managing member of Patient Capital, Sam discusses her vision for creating a highly trusted, investor-friendly firm, and shares her passion for supporting other women in finance. We talk about balancing career and family life, the importance of instilling financial values in her children, and her drive to integrate principles of stoicism and mindfulness into her business practices.   Key Topics: Opposites attract in money values Sam’s early anxiety around money and how her dad influenced her to start investing Starting university with a chemistry major and ending with a business degree How meeting Bill Miller gave Sam an early launch into the investment and finance field Building equity by buying her first house one year out of university Finding satisfaction and fulfillment from saving money Aspiring to become a Vermont innkeeper in 2011 How her money mindset shifted after selling the inn Setting a goal to get more women into investing  Instilling good money values in your kids without an inherent struggle mindset How Sam is starting to see her values take shape in her business Bringing the ideals of Stoicism and Buddhism into finance and investing     Connect with Samantha online:    Website: https://patientcapitalmanagement.com/ </

Tue, February 18, 2025

Breaking Beyond Artificial Career Ceilings with Heather Udo, Founder & CEO of Shoppable®

I’m thrilled to have the brilliant and incredible Heather Udo on today’s episode of Getting Rich Together. Heather is not just an outstanding entrepreneur who’s been leading her business, Shoppable, for nearly 15 years; she also holds a U.S. patent and dedicates her time to coaching first-time founders.    In this conversation, we journey through Heather’s life, starting from her formative years growing up in La Crosse, Wisconsin, as 1 of 8 children in her family, to her early entrepreneurial endeavors, and finally to her successful career in tech. Heather shares fascinating stories from her childhood, the influence of her parents on her financial mindset, and her early adventures with eBay arbitrage at only 12 years old.    We also dive into her early experiences during university and starting out in the workforce, her strategic decisions in the early days of her career, and the financial moves that laid the foundation for starting her own business. Especially notable is how Heather always found a way around the frustrations of hitting artificial ceilings throughout her career and opened other paths to success despite the hurdles.    Heather’s insights on managing personal and business finances, navigating entrepreneurial challenges, and balancing family life make this episode a goldmine of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs.  Key Topics: The money stories Heather grew up with in her family What it was like growing up in a family of 8 kids Heather’s initiation into entrepreneurship with eBay arbitrage at 12 years old The first moments of freedom in her teenage years with her first jobs Navigating early career ceilings and arbitrary experience requirements Taking a risk to work with the founder of Military.com to help him launch another business Gaining the financial confidence to branch out on her own Heather’s early investing and saving strategies Preparing financially to make Shoppable® happen Learning the right and wrong ways to pay yourself as an entrepreneur Navigating money conversations at home and with kids  Learning you need to be financially successful on your own in order to make a broader impact on others   Join Frec to start getting more out of your investments today: https://frec.com/?utm_source=GRT&utm_medium=GRT&utm_id=GRT     <p dir="lt

Thu, February 13, 2025

Leaving Wall Street to Become a 5-Time Founder and CEO with Divya Gugnani, Founder of 5 SENS, Co-Founder of Wander Beauty, & More

I'm thrilled to welcome the prolific, beautiful, and brilliant Divya Gugnani on today's episode. Divya is known as a fearless founder, deeply committed investor, and incubator of brilliant ideas. In this episode, we explore her inspiring journey from a shy child growing up in Long Island to becoming a serial entrepreneur and founder five times over.    We kick things off by diving into Divya's early years, where she shares intimate stories of her introverted childhood and the foundational experiences that shaped her entrepreneurial DNA. She candidly talks about how her career in finance helped her build the confidence to kickstart her first successful business, leading to multiple startup launches and significant exits.    We also explore the dynamics of navigating a predominantly male finance industry and the hard lessons Divya learned about self-advocacy and financial management in a highly competitive industry. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her personal life — balancing motherhood, money in marriage, and being a mentor to many in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.    Tune in to this episode for high-value insights from one of the most dynamic women in business. You’ll learn about the power of persistence, the importance of community, and strategies for financial success.  Key Topics: How being a shy child helped shape Divya’s inner entrepreneur What inspired Divya to pursue finance and a career on Wall Street Learning what not to do around money from her parents Treat money well, and it will treat you well Navigating a dramatic pay gap between men and women in finance Getting the inspiration to start her first business Riding the high of selling her first business and the lessons she learned as a first-time entrepreneur Lacking positive reinforcement from family and how that affected Divya How Divya invests the money she made from selling her business to support other entrepreneurs The biggest mistake Divya made in her money journey Navigating financial convos and money lessons with kids  Leaving a legacy of support, kindness, and generosity for other entrepreneurs Join Frec to start getting more out of your investments today: <a href= "https://frec.com/?utm_source=GRT&utm_medium=GRT&utm_id=GRT" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl= "https://www.google.com/url?q=https://frec.com/?utm_source%3DGRT%26utm

Tue, February 11, 2025

Celebrating 50 Episodes and All of the Amazing Stories That Came From Them

Welcome to the 50th episode of the Getting Rich Together podcast! I can't believe we've made it here, and I'm so grateful to share this milestone with you. In this special episode, I reflect on the journey of this podcast, which started with the aim to help women understand their unique paths in wealth building.    I discuss the incredible stories and vulnerable moments shared by our guests and the transformative impact these narratives have had on our audience. With notable achievements like surpassing 1000 five-star reviews on Spotify and winning an award for the most innovative podcast by and for women, we celebrate our global reach in the business and investing categories.    I also introduce the upcoming Women and Wealth Catalyst Summit, which many of you have heard me promoting at the beginning of the show lately. I designed this as a safe space for women to share their wealth-building journeys and close the confidence gap. I want us to build a community where we’re all truly getting rich — together!    And lastly, I share some personal updates on my financial ventures, including investments in land, Broadway, and emerging market funds, and touch on emerging trends like AI. Join me in celebrating our past accomplishments, and looking forward to a brighter future in women's financial empowerment.    Cheers to many more episodes to come! Key Topics: We made it to Episode 50! Wealth building isn’t linear, but women aren’t behind the game The milestones the podcast has reached so far Preparing for The Great Wealth Transfer How do we close the confidence gap between women and their wealth? The Women & Wealth Catalyst Summit The motivation and inspiration behind the summit What holds women back from opening up about money Where I’ve been investing and the financial goals I’m trying to meet Where I’ve lost some money on investments Getting more interested in AI and the investment opportunities there Getting started in venture fund investments Join Frec to start getting more out of your investments today: https:/ /<wbr

Tue, February 04, 2025

Creating Pathways for Financial Education and Freedom with Amberly Jones, Head of Growth at Frec

I'm thrilled to welcome the brilliant Amberly Jones on today's episode. Amberly is a powerhouse in the world of finance, currently as Head of Growth at Frec, and she has an incredible journey to share with us today.    We start by diving into Amberly's unique upbringing, shaped by her entrepreneurial parents and her early fascination with personal finance. She shares how moving frequently and having younger siblings grounded her, instilling a sense of independence and a keen interest in wealth-building from a young age.    Her first major role at Realm, a startup focused on helping homeowners make better financial decisions, became a playground for her entrepreneurial spirit and desire to help others be financially educated. Amberly’s journey culminates in her current leadership position at Frec, where she spearheads efforts to educate and provide tools for tax loss harvesting and direct indexing.    She candidly talks about the challenges of educating people on these niche financial strategies and the impact they're making by lowering the barriers to entry for people to take steps toward growing their wealth. Throughout the episode, you'll gain insight into Amberly’s steadfast approach to personal finance, her strategic career decisions, and her passion for making financial literacy accessible to all.    This episode is a must-listen for anyone inspired by the intersection of personal finance, entrepreneurial grit, and impactful leadership. Tune in to learn how Amberly is paving the way for more people to achieve financial freedom and make smarter financial decisions. Key Topics: How Amberly’s parents piqued her interest in personal finance from a young age Hitting the ground running with an entrepreneurial spirit and a dream The importance of creating the conditions to make your own success Early lessons in budgeting and money management from her father Pivoting from law school aspirations to building and founding startups Amberly’s laser focus on networking and working in college How a mentor changed Amberly’s view on negotiating and asking for what you’re worth Amberly’s start at Realm and surrounding herself with other successful founders How her perspectives on investing and saving have shifted as her career has developed The money conversations Amberly is now having at home with her wife Amberly’s introduction to tax loss harvesting and direct indexing <li dir="ltr" role="prese

Thu, January 30, 2025

Build Better Companies with More Women in Board Seats with Jocelyn Magnan, CEO & Founder of illumyn Impact (formerly Him for Her)

I’m delighted to introduce the phenomenal Jocelyn Magnan on today’s episode. Jocelyn has been a trailblazer in advocating for more women on boards and creating wealth collectively. In this conversation, we dive into Jocelyn's life story, from her upbringing in the South to navigating her way through prestigious universities and big tech startups.    Jocelyn shares candidly about her journey through some of her most influential roles, like how she talked herself into a job helping launch City Search (now Ticketmaster), her experiences learning financial literacy, and the challenges she faced moving up in the tech world. Later, we get into the crucial moments that led her to found Him for Her, an organization aimed at solving board diversity issues.    Through our conversation, you’ll gain an understanding of how Jocelyn uses her network, passions, and experiences to drive impactful change and empower others. We also discuss her innovative approach to her portfolio career, her passion for investing, and the invaluable lessons she’s teaching her children about money and independence.    This episode is for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of purpose, financial independence, and strategic career decisions. Tune in and be ready to be inspired by Jocelyn’s vision and her relentless pursuit of a more inclusive and financially empowered world for women. Key Topics: Growing up in the South with a Texas feminist mom Choosing a university major for passion, not money Navigating early finances and summer jobs to get through university How Jocelyn learned she needed more experience in order to move up in her career Being at the forefront of City Search as an early startup Moving up in her career, but staying relatively the same financially Moving to Open Table for a new career challenge What prompted Jocelyn to branch out on her own and start Him for Her Building safety nets and raising capital to fund her entrepreneurial ventures What Jocelyn has learned along the path of building a portfolio career Getting passionate about rebalancing the investment scales for women Empowering children to learn how to earn and spend money Getting more women on boards to generate better outcomes for all Connect w

Tue, January 28, 2025

Turning Real Estate Investments into Financial Independence with Jen Nash, Keynote Speaker, Executive Coach, & Leadership Mentor

I'm thrilled to have the incredible connector-in-chief, Jen Nash, on today's episode. Jen is a powerhouse whose life's mission revolves around helping others unlock their purpose and power while creating meaningful relationships.    Today, we dive into Jen's lesser-known backstory about her money journey, which shaped her into the financially fearless thought leader she is today. From her dynamic childhood growing up on the other side of the world to venturing into real estate investment and consulting, Jen's story is nothing short of inspiring.    We explore how her upbringing influenced her financial perspectives and how core moments in her life, like losing everything in the stock market crash and managing multiple properties, shaped her financial resilience. Jen also shares some candid advice on partnering in real estate and the importance of keeping overheads low.    Her journey offers a unique blend of practical tips and emotional wisdom, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in financial freedom and purposeful living. You’ll learn that the true essence of financial security lies in understanding your values, managing your investments wisely, and always planning for the future. Key Topics: A global upbringing that shaped how Jen looked at the world and money How getting published for the first time helped Jen think more strategically about money Scoring a rent-stabilized apartment after moving to NYC to work for the New York Times Losing everything when the dot com bubble burst  Transitioning to real estate and starting her first real estate fund Getting more savvy and creative about her real estate investments as she gained more experience Turning real estate into a passive income stream Understanding where to invest and why it’s a good investment Turning her focus to helping the environment and protecting our oceans Connect with Jen online:   Website: https://jennash.com/ Instagram: @realjennash LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennash-connect Find more from Syama Bunten:   <p dir="ltr

Tue, January 21, 2025

Building an Empire While Living Like a Pauper with Susan Sierota, SS Partners and Board Chair of Manifest Climate

I'm so excited to introduce you to the incredible Susan Sierota, a dynamic and passionate two-time exited founder who has devoted her life to helping others, mentoring budding entrepreneurs, and driving positive change in the world.    In our conversation, we dive deep into the pivotal moments of her upbringing, her unique approach to education, and how she overcame adversity to create her own destiny. Susan grew up in an upper-middle-class family, but despite this, she faced significant challenges, leaving home before she turned twelve and learning to be independent from a very young age.    Susan emphasized education as her ticket out and earned a community college degree, even after dropping out of high school. She shared her extensive experiences from working at Procter & Gamble, where she moved through the ranks and used the company's benefits to further her education, eventually earning an MBA.    We later dive into her transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. Susan candidly talks about the struggles and learning moments from her first startup, emphasizing the importance of not living beyond one's means and the power of delayed gratification. She later founded a tech company focused on animal health, driven by a deep personal mission after losing her dog to cancer.    Her journey illustrates the balance between financial prudence and pursuing a mission-driven life. This episode is not just about financial success; it’s about resilience, growth, and the impact one can have by staying true to their values. Key Topics: Learning to fend for herself at age 12 Paying for a college education on credit cards Getting a master’s with the help of P&G Susan’s first introduction to saving and investing through work Learning to never live outside of your means  Susan’s first introduction to real estate as an asset at 26 Laying the groundwork for her first startup Setting boundaries for herself around money while launching the business Early lessons and mistakes from leaving corporate to launching her first business Taking time to travel after exiting her first business Opening a Crossfit gym and advising businesses on the side How her dog inspired her next business venture How Susan is continuing to build her

Thu, January 16, 2025

Managing Multi-Million Dollar Exits with Entrepreneurial Grit with Kate Watts, CEO of 50,000feet

I'm thrilled to have the sensational Kate Watts on the show today. Kate is a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful business exits under her belt. Today, we delve into her journey from growing up in an entrepreneurial household to her dominating the business world.    Kate shares intimate stories about her childhood, early exposure to entrepreneurial roles, and the impactful money messages she received at home. We also explore her experiences in high school and college, which shaped her work ethic and financial understanding, leading to her successful career start in New York City.    Kate opens up about the ups and downs of founding her businesses, her approach to financial education, and the incredible journey of building and selling her company to The Atlantic. We discuss the importance of negotiating salaries, the significance of self-advocacy, and the criticality of having financial safety nets when branching off on your own business ventures.   She also shares her plans for future businesses, investments, and her perspective on leaving a legacy. This episode provides valuable insights on balancing ambition and financial responsibility, offering wisdom to both aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs.    As a testament to her many successes in starting and selling businesses, since this episode recording, her agency, Long Dash, was also sold and acquired by 50,000feet. Talk about a full-circle moment!   Key Topics: Kate's early exposure to and love for entrepreneurship and its influence on her career path What it was like growing up with two entrepreneurial parents Being raised to think success was sexy and pushing for constant achievement Going to college and leaning into the social experience of it all Establishing herself in NYC and learning quickly that she had no concept of money Struggling to make ends meet but thriving in that struggle Learning to save and be more frugal with her money The different types of salary negotiations and how Kate learned to navigate them throughout her career Taking the leap to start her own business Putting emotional and financial safety nets into place as an entrepreneur Selling her first company to The Atlantic Investing in real estate and in starting other businesses Establishing the first half of her career vs. the second half He

Tue, January 14, 2025

Injecting Her Way to Financial Freedom and Business Success with Janell Ocampo, Founder of Belle Vie Wellness & Medical Aesthetics

On today's episode, I had the incredible pleasure of welcoming the remarkable Janell Ocampo. From the ground up, Janell has built a life and career that is nothing short of inspirational. From overcoming a challenging childhood, navigating an unstable environment, and enduring personal hardships, Janelle managed to carve out an incredible path for herself.    Building and successfully exiting a thriving business, she shares the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that brought her to where she is, standing strong today. Janelle opens up about her early struggles, growing up with neglect and abuse, and the impactful decision to go back to school to change her future. She delves into her passionate journey into the nursing field, the step-by-step development of her business, and the significant personal and professional milestones along the way.    She also talks about navigating through a toxic marriage, dealing with a damaging business partnership, and the relentless pursuit of her goals despite these setbacks. Perhaps what's most inspiring about Janell's story is her unwavering resilience and dedication not just to her business, but to uplifting her community and ultimately, thriving against all odds.    Janell emphasizes the importance of financial education and how having trusted advisors has been in steering her business toward success. This is more than just an entrepreneurial success story; it's a testament to pushing through obstacles and rising above them with grace and perseverance. Key Topics: Navigating a childhood of abuse and neglect and channeling it into a desire to help others The wake-up call moment that convinced Janell she had to take charge of changing her future for the better Discovering for herself how to fund her education and make it on her own Working multiple jobs to make ends meet and support her kid Falling in love with the world of Botox Early lessons in business and learning from failures Navigating early entrepreneurship amidst an abusive relationship How a difficult diagnosis propelled Janell’s career farther than she could have ever imagined Building a mini-empire fueled by her desire to be successful despite her illness  Challenges with getting a divorce while growing her business When Janell realized exiting her business was possible and what propelled her to do it Looking to the next chapter after her kids are out of the house <li dir=

Tue, January 07, 2025

Wealth Isn’t a Numbers Game — It’s a Healing Journey with Shang Saavedra, Founder of Save My Cents

I had the incredible pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Shang Saavedra on this week’s episode. Shang’s inspiring story, from navigating early financial struggles to becoming financially independent, is nothing short of awe-inspiring. She shared her experiences growing up in challenging circumstances moving around a lot as a young girl, and a strong emphasis on education that shaped her future life goals.    Through diligent saving, smart financial planning, and a lot of hard work, Shang managed to graduate from Harvard with a degree in economics and no student debt — a testament to her family's frugality and her own tenacity to be financially independent as early as possible. We explored her journey into management consulting, her strategic approach to building wealth, and how she discovered the FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) movement, which ultimately led her to retire early and focus on educating others about personal finance.    Shangs’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and strategies, financial freedom is achievable. During our conversation, you'll learn about the lessons she learned along the way to financial freedom, the importance of frugality, and how she and her husband managed to live on one income while raising their young kids.    Tune in to get inspired to take control of your financial freedom and learn how Shang is inspiring others to do the same with Save My Cents. Key Topics: A nomadic childhood with a strong emphasis on education Watching her parents establish themselves in the US as an immigrant family Working hard in high school to go to Harvard — debt-free Setting her sights on management consulting as an early career path Taking on an early interest in saving and investing that set her up for success Dreaming of being a rich CEO after business school Staying frugal in the face of temptation Shang’s first introduction to the FIRE concept The dominoes that fell that led Shang to leave corporate for good Living on one income and saving and investing the other Ensuring her wealth lasts beyond 3 generations The start of Save My Cents Wealth isn’t about numbers, it’s about healing from childhood trauma and early money stories Using her wealth to invest in nurturing her personal relationships Connect wit

Thu, January 02, 2025

Bet On Yourself Over and Over Again — and Win with KK Hart, CEO of Hart Marketing & Communications Inc.

I had the incredible pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable KK Hart. From the moment I met KK, I was captivated by her light and the mastery she demonstrates in entrepreneurship through business acquisition. KK's journey, beginning with her family's move from Trinidad to the U.S. and transitioning from a single-parent household, is both inspiring and enlightening.    From the very beginning, KK learned to have a pragmatic view of work and money and used that to launch herself forward very early on in life. She is an open book about her childhood experiences, the lessons learned from her mother's resilience, and the dual life she led growing up in a less affluent neighborhood while attending schools with wealthier peers.    All of these experiences and lessons led her to an impressive path through college, where she graduated early and was able to buy a house by the time she left school with all the money she had already saved up.    From there, she shares her bold career start in big pharma and the pivotal moments that led her to leave corporate America and bet on herself by launching her consultancy and acquiring businesses. KK's story is a testament to the power of self-belief, strategic financial planning, and the willingness to take risks.    Join me to take it all in and dive into the power that comes with constantly betting on yourself — and winning.  Key Topics: Learning to balance what you’re passionate about and what puts food on the table as a child Living a dual life in Florida growing up in an affluent neighborhood and not quite fitting in High school was KK’s time to learn that nobody was going to create success for her Graduating college a year early with an eagerness to get out in the world Buying her first home at 20 with multiple six-figures in the bank Thinking about saving as building wealth, not as having money Entering the pharma industry with a confidence that forced others to take notice Overcoming imposter syndrome in corporate Moving from corporate “security” to entrepreneurship Not letting capped earnings in pharma hold her back from achieving more Finding a niche in the wellness industry for her acquisitions business Doing business in a way that feels ethical and responsible Teaching her kids to feel confident in their ambitions How wealth an

Tue, December 31, 2024

Helping Women Be the Masters of Their Own Financial Universes in Real Estate with Nikki Stoddart, Partner at NüShu Capital

I am thrilled to share with you my conversation with the remarkable Nikki Stoddart, a true powerhouse in the realm of real estate and a fervent advocate for women's financial empowerment.    Nikki's journey from a challenging childhood in McLean, Virginia to becoming a leader in real estate investment is nothing short of inspiring. She reflects on her early years, the hardships she faced after losing her dad at 8 years old, and how those shaped her hunger for success. We explore her initial steps into the working world, her unexpected pivot from aspiring to be a doctor to mastering real estate, and her significant successes and strategies along the way.    We dig into the importance of educating women on financial independence, recounting how she overcame personal and professional challenges, and the pivotal role networking played in her journey. We also discuss her vision for the future, her recent YOLO purchase of a horse as a symbol of her hard-earned freedom, and how she balances her passion for real estate with maintaining a rich, fulfilling personal life.    Join me in getting inspired by Nikki's journey and discovering how her money lessons can guide you in your own path to financial empowerment. Key Topics: Gaining a hunger to achieve and succeed through hardships as a young girl Learning that money affords a certain sense of freedom with her first jobs in high school Graduating early and moving to Spain Wanting to be a doctor after university, but life had other plans Gaining the confidence to go all-in on real estate Starting to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship Hoping her kids will have the same hunger and drive for success that she had Realizing she can’t have it all in real estate Nikki’s first angel investment When she started aligning her values with her real estate business How Nikki’s real estate investments have evolved over time Building a bench of trusted advisors and mentors Teaching her kids to get the most value out of every dollar you spend on college Nikki's YOLO adventures in her 40s Scaling up the business to scale up her freedom Make an impulse purchase on a horse

Tue, December 24, 2024

Choosing Wealth Every Day and Teaching Others to Do the Same with Dominique Broadway, Founder of Finances Demystified

I had the incredible pleasure of sitting down with the beautiful and brilliant Dominique Broadway in this week’s episode. Dominique is a powerhouse in the financial world, known best for her ability to educate and empower people to change their financial futures and build wealth from the ground up.    From a young age, Dominique had a knack for entrepreneurship and leadership, starting with a bracelet business as young as 5 years old. We also talk about her high school years, where she juggled multiple jobs and ventures, including an impressive stint as a teenage COO, all while maintaining her interest in the stock market and going to school.    Her early successes eventually led Dominique to work for USB, which fueled her passion for helping others and learning as much as she could about how successful people start and grow their wealth. Her work laid the groundwork for her current entrepreneurial venture at Finances Demystified, where she now educates and mentors countless individuals on personal finance.    Join me to hear Dominique’s inspiring story, her innovative investing strategies, and her vision for creating a lasting impact in the realm of financial education. Dominique is a testament to how curiosity and a constant pursuit of personal education and growth does pay off.  Key Topics: How talking too much became Dominque’s superpower Learning that there are spenders and savers and becoming the latter Becoming a 15-year-old COO  Getting curious about how wealthy people make their money Starting a stock portfolio at 16 The internship that launched her career Learning from her clients about how to build wealth Where Dominque got her financial education from to build her wealth independently What led Dominique to go out on her own in entrepreneurship Facing broke-ness head on to address her own money problems Helping others find the confidence and resources to get out of debt Making a nest egg for her daughters and Dominque’s other current investments Reducing the learning and success curve around financial literacy Connect with Dominique online:   Websites: https://financesdemystified.com/ https://dominiquebroadway.com/ LinkedIn: <a href= "https://

Thu, December 19, 2024

You’re Not Too F**king Old to Achieve Your Dreams with Jen Marples, Founder of The Jen Marples Agency

In this episode, I had the incredible pleasure of sitting down with the bright, enthusiastic, and brilliant Jen Marples. Jen is a shining light for many women, helping them step into their greatness and realize that they’re not too f**king old to do anything they desire.    We dive deep into her life, from her childhood in Hawaii as the oldest of four children to becoming a successful entrepreneur and the force behind The Jen Marples Show: You’re Not Too F**king Old. Jen shares moving stories of her early life, the financial struggles of her family, and the heavy responsibilities she shouldered from an early age, which helped to shape her into the powerhouse she is today.    We explore her impressive career in public relations, her accidental yet empowering leap into entrepreneurship, and how she continually reinvents herself while empowering others, especially women in their midlife. Tune in to hear Jen’s inspiring outlook on overcoming fears, the importance of financial independence, and her unwavering belief that you are never too old to step into the spotlight and live your best life.  Key Topics: Taking on the CEO role of her 3 younger siblings as a kid The universe gives you the exact parents you need to do the work you’re meant to do later on Ending up in PR almost by accident Making things work for her through the effort and grit she learned at a young age Realizing she could make more money working for herself Figuring out finances as an accidental entrepreneur Making a commitment to have more honest conversations in the family Going on a mission to debunk midlife myths Raising children in a family with 2 entrepreneurs Modeling financial stability for the kids Investing in more female-founded women’s health ventures Connect with Jen online:   Website: https://jenmarples.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenmarples/ Instagram: @jenmarples The Jen Marples Show Podcast: https://jenmarples.com/podcas

Tue, December 17, 2024

Creating Societal Ripple Effects by Teaching Women to Lead with Samantha Karlin, CEO of Empower Global

I am thrilled to be joined by the brilliant and generous-hearted Samantha Karlin. Known for her work in helping leaders, especially women, find their voices and manage leadership challenges, Samantha shares her incredible journey with us.    From her childhood watching her sister fight the odds against a rare disease to her dynamic career helping others amplify their messages, Samantha's story is one of resilience and passion for social good.    Throughout our conversation, Samantha details how her early experiences with fundraising for her sister's treatment shaped her money mindset and championed her leadership skills. She candidly discusses her pivot from a struggling actress in New York to a powerhouse in women's leadership training and international relations.    We dig into Samantha's unique approach to feminist leadership, emphasizing the importance of community, social change, and ethical practices in leadership. You’ll learn about the integration of feminist principles into leadership training and how Samantha's background in the arts has enriched her current work.    Her insights into transforming traditional leadership training, leveraging emotional and experiential methods, and her plans for future projects, including a keynote and books on feminist leadership, provide valuable lessons for anyone on a mission to catalyze change.  Key Topics: Taking the initiative to be part of the solution for saving her sister’s life Learning at a young age to make good things happen for yourself Early wake-up calls with finances and learning how money works Deciding between pursuing music or following in her sister’s footsteps The difficult life as a struggling actor in New York The wake-up call that pushed her to do more at 27 Learning that everything won’t always just fall into place if you follow your passion Integrating her life skills so far into new ventures The path that led her to start her own firm Combining what you’re good at, what you can make money doing, what the world needs, and your passions into one business Creating the Women’s Leadership Challenge  Using money to hire people to fill in the spaces where you don’t excel Striving to be a psychologically safe employer Going beyond just happiness in the workplace Connect with Sama

Tue, December 10, 2024

Dying with $0 to Help Fundraise the Future with Barbara Pierce, Founder and Principal of Women With Capital

I sat down with the remarkable Barbara Pierce to explore her incredible journey of empowering women through financial literacy and wealth management. Barbara is renowned for her work in evangelizing women, wealth, and the powerful ways women can exercise their wealth in alignment with their values.   You'll get a fascinating glimpse into her early years and discover how money conversations at home and her industrious nature shaped her future. From figuring out her early career to making significant philanthropic moves, Barbara shares how she navigated the financial world with grit and determination.    Barbara opens up about the important milestones in her life, including her career as a fundraiser for large-scale philanthropies and how she ultimately took control of her investments. We delve into the motivation behind founding Women With Capital, a non-pitch community aimed at educating and supporting women in managing their wealth. She shares the personal stories that influenced this mission and how she’s helping women unlock their financial potential.    As we discuss both the joys and challenges of managing wealth, Barbara provides valuable insights on risk tolerance, family financial dynamics, and the importance of community.  Key Topics: Growing up “in the poor house” Realizing at a young age that passions don’t always result in money Seeing the real-time power of personal networks in university Entering the world of fundraising Learning the value of money to make legacy decisions Discovering the strategy behind asking donors for large amounts of money First savings, investment, and retirement moves Getting interested in aligning wealth with things that actually make a difference Making the investment decisions in the family A tough lesson in risk tolerance Navigating different approaches to money in marriage and family Becoming a founder to bring women together over money Barbara’s money conversations with her son about investing and spending 50 women moving $150 million in 5 years Enabling women to build their missions and legacies Connect with Barbara online:   <p dir="l

Thu, December 05, 2024

Real Change Starts with Women Making a Sh*t Ton of Money with Cindy Gallop, Founder of Make Love Not Porn

This week, I had the immense pleasure of talking with the exceptional Cindy Gallop the self-proclaimed Michael Bay of business. Cindy’s name is synonymous with trailblazing initiatives in advertising, TED talks, and championing women entrepreneurs through Make Love Not Porn.    In our deep dive, we traverse Cindy’s childhood memories in Asia, where frugality was the norm due to her family's circumstances, and how these early experiences shaped her views on money and investment and were critical to her journey toward financial independence.    Cindy shares the magic of how everything in her life was unplanned, yet it’s led her to be the powerhouse she is today. We explore her unexpected foray into advertising, thanks to a chance encounter, and how mastering the art of negotiation has never led her astray.    She candidly discusses the challenges she faced as an older female entrepreneur in a male-dominated tech world, detailing her relentless (and continuous) fight to secure funding for Make Love Not Porn amidst widespread discrimination.    As we explore Cindy's trajectory, you’ll hear valuable insights into her tenacity, resilience, and the critical importance of creating and maintaining safe online spaces for women and minorities. Tune in for an inspiring look at how Cindy's groundbreaking work and ceaseless advocacy for financial empowerment continue to leave a lasting impact on society. Key Topics: Cindy’s early money lessons in frugality and property investment Breaking into the advertising industry in 1985 Cindy’s first property purchase for $41k at 27 Advice for anyone looking to purchase their first property Discovering entrepreneurship as a path to greater wealth creation Becoming a ferocious negotiator during her corporate ad career “Do interesting things, and interesting things will happen” Leaving corporate and branching out on her own Noticing the massive gap of women in tech and startups The creation of Make Love Not Porn Using business prowess to change people’s sexual attitudes and behavior for the better What’s at stake when women don’t get funding for their businesses Women need to make money to fund other women Connect with

Tue, December 03, 2024

Healing a Toxic Relationship with Money and Building a Media Empire with Susan Hyatt, Master Certified Life Coach

I had the incredible opportunity to chat with the powerhouse life coach and mentor, Susan Hyatt about how she used the lessons she learned in the real estate business to build her prolific life coaching and media empire she has today.    We explore Susan's childhood in Savannah, Georgia, where she learned to be frugal and work hard for the lifestyle she wanted for herself. You'll get an intimate look at her early money stories and how she overcame a somewhat toxic relationship with money in her 20s — her “aha moment” to take some big leaps to create the life she wanted for herself and her family.    Susan shares her transition from a career in residential real estate to establishing herself as a life coach, along with the challenges and breakthroughs she encountered along the way. We discuss early investments in real estate, overcoming the fear of self-investment, and how she eventually built her media empire.    She also opens up about her vision for closing societal gaps for women and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. From financial advice to personal growth, this conversation will inspire you to harness your inner power and create the financial future you desire. Key Topics: Learned anxiety and frugality around money at a young age Adopting a workaholic attitude in college and racking up credit card debt Susan’s struggle to figure out how to save and stop overspending The “aha moment” that made her realize she needed to heal her relationship with money The first steps toward entrepreneurship  Falling in love with helping people get what they want through real estate The mindset shift that happened for her and her husband to realize they could bet on themselves Leaving real estate and discovering life coaching Betting on herself again to launch a life coaching business Almost breaking into 6-figures in her first year of coaching How Susan’s children are following in her footsteps Closing societal gaps for women Connect with Susan online:   Website: https://susanhyatt.co/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanehyatt/ Instag

Tue, November 26, 2024

Thinking Beyond the Board Seat to Build a Legacy Career with Coco Brown, Founder & CEO of Athena Alliance

I had the privilege of sitting down with the exceptional Coco Brown, the driving force behind Athena Alliance. Coco, a Silicon Valley veteran of 30 years, shares her captivating journey from her free-spirited childhood in a hippie academic family to becoming a trailblazing female leader in the corporate world.    We explored her humble beginnings, the formative experiences of her early life, and her ambitious climb up the corporate ladder in her 20s. We dive into Coco's unique approach to life, wealth, and family, discussing the importance of financial literacy and transparency with her children.    Coco's story is refreshingly candid, as she recounts the highs and lows of her financial journey — from making a quarter of a million dollars in her twenties to removing the golden handcuffs and couchsurfing with her children as she started her entrepreneurial journey.    The Athena Alliance’s mission is to empower women to expand their career portfolios and build lasting legacies. Listeners will gain valuable insights into Coco's strategies for success, her philosophy on money and happiness, and the importance of investing in oneself.    Coco’s narrative is a powerful reminder that wealth is not just about financial gain but also about creating meaningful impact and lasting change. Key Topics: A wild childhood in Amish country, Pennsylvania Career choices driven by a desire to understand how people make sense of the world Moving to Paris with no plan and using her resourcefulness as a career starter in the UN Coco’s early money moves as a 20-something in Silicon Valley Launching an entrepreneurial venture with a full-time career at 23 Using wealth to give back to the family Navigating the frustration of golden handcuffs at Taos while starting a family Encountering a rollercoaster of wealth and hard times in the early stages of entrepreneurship Asking yourself if you’re being paid what you’re worth The karma behind money and knowing when to cut your own salary Being open and honest with children about money, even in the hard times How Coco’s identity shifted as she left Taos How their family’s investment decisions have shifted and evolved over the years Building a legacy means stepping away from a linear path Connect with Coco online:  </p

Thu, November 21, 2024

Moving Mountains with Money, Education, and Empowerment with Laurel Mintz, Founder of Fabric VC and Elevate My Brand

I had the incredible opportunity to chat with Laurel Mintz, the powerhouse behind Elevate My Brand and Fabric VC. I got a behind-the-scenes look into Laurel's fascinating journey from her early years in LA's iconic Laurel Canyon, surrounded by the hippie culture of the '60s, to becoming a formidable force in the marketing and venture capital worlds.    We discuss her unexpected leap from wanting to be a lawyer to becoming an accidental CEO at 26, running her dad’s furniture company while he battled cancer, and how she navigated those challenging years.    Laurel shares candidly about her financial journey, from growing up affluent to experiencing her family's financial downfall and emerging stronger and wiser. Her transition from law to business, the birth of Elevate My Brand, and her foray into venture capital are all part of her colorful journe to the entrepreneurial success she enjoys today.    Laurel is all about empowering others, especially women, to understand and harness the power of financial literacy and investment. Through her candid and bright stories of resilience, learning, and now educating others, you'll learn the importance of money management, the value of support systems, and the thrill of going after your dreams fearlessly. Key Topics: Growing up affluent with parents who were the epitome of sex, drugs, and rock and roll The early signs that Laurel would become a lawyer The drastic change her family’s finances took in her teenage years Switching from law school to business school Becoming a 26-year-old CEO unexpectedly and helping turn her dad’s business around Learning how to fake it ‘till you make it How Laurel took signs from the universe that she wasn’t meant to be a lawyer The business meeting that changed her career path forever Found Elevate My Brand and building a team How Laurel and her husband overcame early disagreements about money and finances Entering rooms with people smarter than her to learn about investing Laurel’s first venture capital deal and where it’s at now Knowing when it’s the right time for high risk, high reward investments Launching Fabric VC and reentering the startup environment Educating and empowering people who have never had a seat at the table Becoming the Brene Brow

Tue, November 19, 2024

Getting Out of Survival Mode with Money and Knowing Your Money Love Language with Sathya Chey Patterson, Co-founder of Arise Private Wealth

In this episode, we sit down with the successful and inspiring Sathya Chey Patterson. Sathya is known for her numerous accolades, including being recognized as one of the top women advisors in California by Forbes in 2023.    As the founder of Arise, Sathya is dedicated to aligning wealth with values and empowering women to create real, tangible abundance. Her story is not just about financial success but also about integrating into the US as an immigrant from Cambodia and rising above many challenges to achieve the American dream.    Sathya shares the importance of living within one's means, investing wisely, and integrating money with personal values. You'll learn how her early experiences shaped her outlook on money, the sacrifices her family made for financial security, and how she now aims to help others achieve a balanced and fulfilled life.    This episode is brimming with valuable insights into financial planning, emotional connections to money, and the profound impact of aligning wealth with purpose. Key Topics: How Sathya’s family found their American dream after experiencing a genocide in Cambodia Sathya’s early experience in finance working in for her family Breaking off on her own career path Going to university with a desire to help others pursue the life they want by building their wealth Growing, saving, and studying while raising a baby at 20 years old How Sathya learned to be as efficient as possible with the money she was making The skills that ultimately led to Sathya being able to break out on her own as an entrepreneur Getting to the core of what people need to be truly happy The financial planning that happened that allowed her to quit her job Allowing space to be more present and conscious with how she spends her time Bridging the gap between her upbringing and who she is now Building success through soul alignment of wealth Giving people the confidence to do the things they love with the people they love What is your love language for spending?  Connect with Sathya online:   Website: https://www.ariseprivatewealth.com/ Forbes Rankings: https://www.forbes.com/profile/sathya-chey-patterso

Tue, November 12, 2024

How Understanding Our Money Psychology Can Unlock Significant Change with Kristin Merrick, Co-founder of Women Work F*ing Hard

I had the pleasure of speaking with Kristin Merrick, a renowned evangelist for women’s wealth management. Known for her abundance mindset and community support, Kristin shares her fascinating life journey, instilled early on with deep financial awareness.    From her experiences as a young child amidst the highs and lows of her family's finances to her rise on Wall Street, Kristin's story is rich with insights and lessons on money management, investment, and personal growth during financial crises.    Through candid conversations about early career mistakes and entrepreneurial hustles, Kristin reflects on the importance of financial planning and offering sound advice while humanizing the financial struggles many face. We also dive into Kristin's co-founding of Women Work F*ing Hard, an initiative designed to foster community and a network of support among women. This movement emphasizes the importance of women helping women through networking, hiring female professionals, and advocating for women's success.    Kristin's perspective on blending personal and community growth sets the foundation for a legacy rooted in kindness, support, and financial wisdom. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of how we can all contribute to a more equitable and thriving community by being intentional with how and why we spend our money. Key Topics: Getting involved in the family finances How Kristin started her first side hustle in 5th grade Going all in on a business degree and cementing her path in finance Making all the financial mistakes in your 20’s The importance of making retirement contributions as early as possible Working with a financial advisor for the first time to invest her money Learning from the hardships that came with the 2008 financial crash Coming to the decision to launch her own business Making her first check as an entrepreneur The psychology and trauma of money How Kristin sees herself in her clients Turning a love of getting women new business into a business with Women Work F*ing Hard Instilling in her kids the idea that things in life aren’t free Leaving a legacy of kindness and generosity You don’t have to be an expert in money to get your finances in order Connect with Kristin online:   <p dir="ltr

Thu, November 07, 2024

A Collective Power Source of Wisdom for Women with Gina Pell, Co-Founder of The What Alliance

Gina Pell is a spirited and visionary individual whose heartfelt commitment to incredible organizations is making substantial waves in the world.    Her story is both nuanced and delightful, offering a refreshing perspective on how energy and passion can drive meaningful change. In our chat, Gina shares the importance of investing time and energy into causes that matter. We discuss her approach to supporting organizations that align with her values, and how this investment not only benefits the causes but also fuels her own sense of purpose and fulfillment.    You'll hear about the pivotal moments that have shaped Gina's path and the sheer determination that has driven her to contribute so significantly to the community. As she discusses her ongoing projects and future aspirations, you'll hear about the practical steps she takes to support and uplift those around her.    Gina’s story is a testament to the incredible impact one person can have when they fully commit to their dreams and values. Her journey is a beacon of empowerment, reminding us all of the power we hold to shape our own futures and contribute meaningfully to the world around us. Key Topics: Unlearning the negative money stories Gina grew up with Finding security and stability in a chaotic financial situation as a kid When Gina decided to go back to school to finish her education The catalyst for Gina to move back to San Francisco and start her entrepreneurial journey Seeing unlimited possibilities in the internet boom of the 90s and early 2000s Always investing back in the business, but rarely investing in herself Exiting Splendora for other business ventures Learning that the community aspect of her business was the most valuable The feelings behind getting acquired after 10 years Building antidotes to loneliness through community The money stories she’s passing down to her kids now When Gina decided to become more outspoken about her values and align her money with them Creating a power source of collective wisdom from women Connect with Gina online:   Website: https://www.thewhatalliance.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-pell-54664/ Instagram: <a href= "https:

Tue, November 05, 2024

Architecting Freedom Through Money Math and Energetics with Holly Ruxin, CEO and Founder of Montcalm TCR

I sat down with Holly Ruxin, a visionary in the world of financial empowerment and ethical investing. Holly's journey is both inspiring and instructive, starting from her early days in a conventional finance career to becoming a leader in values-driven investment strategies.    We begin by exploring Holly's professional background and the milestones that led her to question the status quo of traditional finance. Holly shares compelling stories from her career, highlighting the moments of disillusionment and awakening that directed her towards a path of ethical investing.    Throughout our discussion, Holly opens up about the challenges and rewards of prioritizing ethics in a profit-driven industry. She discusses her experience teaching others about financial empowerment and architecting freedom through money, and aligning finances with your values.    Through hearing Holly’s money stories, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how to manage your finances responsibly while also making a meaningful difference. Key Topics: Equating personal freedom with earning and tracking money at a young age Using money to take charge of your own destiny When Holly first fell in love with economics and followed her intuition on that Striving to bring money conversations out of the dark Learning that money is an energy and using that to inform savings and investment decisions The investments and purchases that didn’t work out as planned The spiritual awakening that moved Holly to leave Wall Street for good How to architect your own freedom with money math Giving back to yourself energetically to meet shifting and changing needs Being very intentional about money conversations around kids Teaching others that money is love  Giving others permission to be braver and feel like they belong  Connect with Holly online:   Website: https://www.montcalmtcr.com/our-story LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyziegelruxin/ Instagram: @montcalmtcr <p dir="lt

Tue, October 29, 2024

Opening Doors with Education and Determination with Jasmine Star, CEO of Social Curator

Join me as we unpack the incredible life journey of Jasmine Star — entrepreneur, educator, and founder whose legacy business has touched many lives. I explore Jasmine's story, starting from her childhood as the daughter of Mexican and Puerto Rican immigrants, to her academic excellence that had her graduating at the top of her class in both high school and university.    You'll hear about her struggles transitioning to public high school from homeschooling, her initial path to law school at UCLA motivated by a sense of fairness and justice, and the unexpected moments that shifted her focus toward entrepreneurship.    Jasmine shares how a heartfelt conversation during her honeymoon with her husband spurred her to leave law school and pursue photography, eventually building a six-figure business laden with new opportunities like blogging, workshops, and online courses and so much more. We dive into Jasmine's approach to personal investments, navigating the tech industry as a SaaS founder, and instilling financial and ethical values in her daughter.    Jasmine harnessed the power of education, adaptability, and following her heart to achieve financial freedom without sacrificing her values. This episode is all about resilience, personal growth, and the joy that comes from embracing change and staying true to one's passions. Key Topics: Growing up as a first-generation American in a family of 7 Transitioning from homeschooling to public school Having the determination to open up doors through education The criticism in university that changed Jasmine’s educational path Making sure you’re happy regardless of your income Being drawn to law school by a drive for justice and fairness Breaking away from the lone wolf mentality in law school How Jasmine’s wedding moved her to drop out of law school Pursuing photography and building a 6-figure business empire from it Having open conversations about money with her husband What Jasmine would’ve told herself about investing 10 years ago Distilling a sense of work ethic and delayed gratification in her daughter The best thing Jasmine has done as an entrepreneur Impacting others to do just 1% more  Connect with Jasmine online:   Website: https://jasminestar.com/ , <a h

Tue, October 22, 2024

From 5th Grade Mayor to Venture Capital Entrepreneur with Kelly Ann Winget, Founder of Alternative Wealth Partners, LLC

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Kelly Ann Winget, an incredible business owner and fierce advocate for women's financial empowerment. Kelly shares her journey from being a kid mayor to becoming a prolific figure in inspiring women to take risks and invest in their futures.    We talk about her diverse career experience that she launched into from a young age and her journey in building Alternative Wealth Partners, a private equity firm focused on building wealth through diversity.    Starting from her childhood, Kelly's exposure to financial conversations and early entrepreneurial experiences paved her way into numerous ventures, from health care, oil and gas, and to demolition companies, each adding layers to her expansive skill set. At just 21, she navigated complex industries, and by 30, she launched her own firm, emphasizing investments with a purpose, especially those challenging traditional setups.    Whether it's investing in diverse sectors or educating others on financial autonomy, Kelly's journey is about changing perceptions and creating impactful change. Join me to explore her dynamic career, the balance of personal and professional finance, her role in media, and her mission to fund and empower women in business. Her story is a testament to breaking barriers and redefining investment landscapes. Key Topics: Ruling the 5th grade as class mayor in a pink power suit Making $60k in high school selling car wash packages Lacking a challenge in high school and university  Having a quarter life crisis at her first job out of university Valuing the lifestyle a job offers over the salary Embodying the authority and audacity Kelly Ann was raised with Kelly Ann’s first exposure to venture capital and private equity in California Learning to make different types of business relationships that would propel her forward The aha moment that led to Kelly branching out on her own to start a business The dominoes that fell into place that propelled her business forward Getting her first check from a couple who owned a pumpkin farm  How Kelly and her wife handle money at home Kelly’s investments that are disrupting entire industries Using wealth to effect change and puts power into new hands Connect with Kelly Ann online:   Website: <a href= "http

Tue, October 15, 2024

Paving the Way for Fair and Just Innovation for Women with Kat de Haën, Co-Founder of The Fourth Effect

Join me in welcoming the inspiring Kat de Haën, a trailblazing figure for women aspiring to advance in board service, entrepreneurship, and startups. In this episode, we talk about her formative years, growing up in a frugal household that inspired a strong work ethic in Kat.    Kat shares her career journey from studying art to finding her niche in business and design, and how her early investments and financial mentorship shaped her path. When Kat later moved to New York with her husband, she embraced the challenges of entrepreneurship and the strategic decisions that led her to found The Fourth Effect.    This venture supports women in gaining board experience and driving balanced innovation. We explore delicate balances, like personal risk in business and the evolution of her financial philosophy, emphasizing creating lasting impact over accumulating wealth.    Join us to discover how Kat navigates family dynamics, inspires financial literacy in the next generation, and champions systemic change for women in finance. As Kat advocates for diversified income streams, particularly through board positions, her journey offers invaluable insights into leveraging money for empowerment and personal growth.  Key Topics: Saving up for and buying her first pink stereo with her own money Learning the value of a dollar through working as a kid How Kat’s University experience shaped her later career decisions How being the oldest child shaped her views on money compared to her younger siblings Moving to NYC with her husband in 1995 and starting a new career journey Resisting temptations to spend a lot in NYC and save up Kat’s first exposure to real money conversations and noticing how it differed between men and women Learning her own risk tolerance and the pay-to-play mentality with money Moving from corporate “security” to entrepreneurship Building The Fourth Effect to open up doors for women Why women should consider holding more board seats How Kat has approached money conversations with her daughter to make her feel empowered Leaving a legacy of paving the way for fair and just innovation for women  Connect with Kat online:   Website: <a href= "htt

Tue, October 08, 2024

Diversifying Wealthbuilding Strategies and Embracing Entrepreneurship with Rachel Johnson, Co-Founder J&O Law and Founder of Ah.mi Health

Rachel Johnson is a powerhouse of brains, brilliance, and business acumen. I sat down with her to unravel her inspiring journey from her upbringing in South Florida with 4 siblings to a successful lawyer and entrepreneur.    She discusses the financial principles instilled in her by her parents and how she worked through college and beyond to pay her own way. As we dive into her exciting career ventures, you'll hear about her shift from big law to co-founding her own law firm, J&O Law, and then branching out to start a second impactful business, Ah.mi Health.    Rachel offers transparent insights into her savings habits throughout her career, her approach to diversifying investments from real estate to venture capital and even cryptocurrency, and her firm belief in seeking expert advice at the right moments.    Tune in to discover the core philosophies that drive Rachel’s success and perhaps learn a few tips for your own financial journey. One thing we can learn from Rachel’s money story is that strategic investing and taking calculated risks can lead to great rewards, both in business and personal wealth. Key Topics: Learning early on that if you want something, you have to work for it Continuing her parents’ legacy of studying law Working with a wealth manager from a young age to build savings Becoming confident enough to leave Big Law and branch out on her own Building J&O Law and building back her wealth How Rachel utilized savings to stay afloat while starting the business Rachel’s 7 different streams of income and savings Rachel’s tips for real estate investing  Starting Ah.mi Health Using money to create joy and fill her house with love Connect with Rachel online:   Website: https://www.ahmihealth.com/ , https://www.jolaw.co/team LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-johnson-15887572/ Instagram: @ahmi.health Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , <a href= "https://www.ins

S2 E24 · Tue, October 01, 2024

Closing the Gap Between Where Women Are, And Where They Want to Be with Shelly Lombard, Founder of Schmooze

Shelly Lombard is a powerhouse in the financial world — she's the founder of Schmooze, a Fortune 500 board director, and a trailblazer in leveraging relationships.    In this episode, Shelly takes us through her remarkable journey from growing up in New Orleans with three younger siblings to becoming a successful Wall Street professional. We explore her early career challenges, the strategic risks she took leaving the corporate world to try out entrepreneurship, and how she carved out a space for herself as a board member of several Fortune 500 companies.    Shelly shares how she realized that relationships are one of the most important tools for building wealth and achieving career milestones. You'll learn how she adeptly navigated the volatile world of Wall Street, the innovative ways she started investing after leaving corporate finance, and the founding of Schmooze to help other women build powerful networks and learn skills to move up the corporate and business ladder.    You'll be inspired to take control of your financial future, leverage relationships, and perhaps even start your own journey toward building a portfolio career.    Key Topics: The tight financial middle ground of growing up in a middle-class family Shelly’s first taste of financial freedom with her first summer job Learning the connection between money and lifestyle Starting out as a journalist at The Boston Globe Making the decision to get an MBA to make it in Wall Street How Shelly managed finances with her first job at Citibank An introduction to Vulture Investing  How technology has given people more access to investing tools Setting yourself up emotionally and financially for entrepreneurship Landing her first board seat with an equity firm Learning to be more intentional with keeping in touch with connections Launching Schmooze and going for her dreams Shifting your mindset to being opportunistic Relationships close gaps to get you where you want to go Connect with Shelly online:   Website: https://schmooze.biz/ LinkedIn: http

Tue, September 24, 2024

Ensuring You Feel Represented With Your Investments, with Jacki Zehner, ShePlace and SheMoney

I’m thrilled to bring you this insightful conversation with the legendary Jacki Zehner. Jacki is an OG money maven with 14 powerful years at Goldman Sachs. She's now retired from the corporate grind, and spends her time dedicated to helping women invest with purpose through initiatives like 'Women Moving Millions' and her latest ventures, ShePlace and SheMoney.    We delve into her story, discussing the financial principles she learned from her hard-working parents and how those values fueled her career. Jackie shares inspirational stories from her days at Goldman Sachs, including her bold strategy for making partner and the hard lessons learned about advocating for herself.    You'll discover her evolution into a savvy investor, her pioneering efforts in supporting women fund managers, and the impactful legacy she's building through SheMoney. This episode is packed with wisdom on financial empowerment, aligning investments with values, and the importance of both personal and collective financial wellness.    You'll come away inspired to take charge of your financial dreams, support other women, and maybe even start your own impactful journey in the world of finance.  Key Topics: Learning that money meant freedom from a young age The decision she made at a college party that changed her life trajectory forever Living a life without debt in NYC Navigating the competitive one-upmanship of Wall Street Becoming the youngest woman and first female partner of Goldman Sachs Debunking the myth that financial services people are good at investing their money Using financial gifts to help serve the world  Capitalizing on values through investing Why Jacki didn’t feel represented with her money and how she set out to change that How Jacki’s investment decisions have changed over time Jacki’s plans for SheMoney and building her legacy Compulsively buying Wonder Woman paraphernalia Connect with Jacki online:   Website: https://www.shemoney.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacki-zehner/   Find more from Syama

S2 E22 · Tue, September 17, 2024

Rising by Lifting Others at the Investor's Table with Annie Evans, Founder of Dream Ventures

This week on Getting Rich Together, I had the honor of sitting down with the amazing Annie Evans of Dream Ventures to dive into her life and experiences in angel investing, her entrepreneurial aspirations, parenting with a wealth-conscious mindset, and more.   Annie shares her beginnings as an aspiring entrepreneur, inspired by her parents' small businesses, to now being a leader empowering women in the investment world. We talk about her early money experiences, the pivotal roles of her family, and the transformative power of community and networking among female investors.    Annie also opens up about how motherhood has influenced her values around money and investing, and she discusses her future vision for women in angel investing. Her ultimate mantra in life is “We rise by lifting others.” And she’s certainly done that by using her capital and influence to invest in other women while seeking out new areas where she can make an even bigger impact.  Key Topics: Annie's early aspirations as an entrepreneur The transition from corporate life to angel investing How Annie made her first angel investment The founding story of Dream Ventures Key focus areas for Dream Ventures investments The importance of teaching children about money and entrepreneurship Annie's approach to building a community of women investors The impact of Dream Ventures' accelerator program on female founders Annie's vision for the future of women-led investing How Annie defines wealth and success The changing perspective on material possessions versus investing Annie's life philosophy and its influence on her business approach Connect with Annie online:   Website: https://www.dreamventures.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annierevans/ Instagram: @dreamventures.co Email: annie@dreamventures.co Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , <a href=

S2 E21 · Tue, September 10, 2024

What Happens When Women Take Control of Their Money Collectively with Janine Firpo, Co-founder of Invest for Better

Today, I'm thrilled to bring you a deeply inspiring conversation with Janine Firpo, a renowned financial activist and the co-founder of Invest for Better. Janine's career and financial journey is not just a testament to resilience but a blueprint for financial empowerment for women everywhere.    In this episode, Janine shares anecdotes from her youth, the influence of her fearless mother in the real estate market, and her early ventures into the stock market. We explore her career shifts, including moving from a flourishing tech career to doing impactful work in global poverty alleviation.    She also dives into her strategic financial decisions, including her investments in socially responsible banks and workforce housing projects, and the role pivotal women’s networks played in these decisions.    Janine is a testament to the incredible impact women can collectively make by taking control of their financial futures. Don't miss the wealth of wisdom Janine provides on fostering financial security, the power of community in financial growth, and how we can all take steps towards a more financially empowered life together.  Key Topics: Money lessons from the struggles of older women growing up Switching from zoology to technology in university studies The advice from a stranger that changed her entire career trajectory Getting past the “bag lady syndrome” she had from growing up poor First experiences investing in the stock market and buying real estate How a women’s investment club helped educate her about the stock market Having more risk tolerance as you gain more confidence in investing Navigating the early, pre-internet days of the tech world Merging business thinking and tech to help solve global poverty Letting things in life unfold naturally and trusting your gut Keeping money separate in a relationship to have a safety net Writing Activate Your Money as an investment education resource written by women, for women Navigating fears around retirement and finding a new passion Putting women’s money to work in new and meaningful ways Investing in banks and other financial institutions that are aligned with your values </p

Tue, September 03, 2024

Turning Social Currency Into Financial Currency with Michelle Reeves, Co-Founder of Women Who Innovate

Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Michelle Reeves, a true innovator and entrepreneur who mastered the art of betting on herself. In this episode, we explore Michelle’s path from humble beginnings in Australia to becoming a wine and tech trailblazer in the US. Michelle shares about her early career moves, including her bold decision to relocate to New York City just before 9/11. She discusses how she leveraged her savings to take calculated risks, from launching a pioneering online wine business to making her first angel investments and real estate purchases in her early 30s.  Perhaps what has had the biggest impact on her career so far has been understanding that nobody can be truly self-made. It takes a village — whether family, friends, or mentors — to help build you up and lay the path for future success.  Michelle’s story serves as inspiration to take big risks and advocate for yourself to make things happen for you. It’s not just about the number in your bank account, but the positive impact that you make on others’ lives along the way.  Key Topics: Getting inspired to do what you really love at a young age Using her first earnings to start a fashion magazine at 13 with friends Realizing you have to stand out in order to move up in the world How savings unlocks opportunities to bet on yourself Early investments in stocks starting at 18 years old Betting on herself and moving to NYC for work Michelle’s first exposure to wine futures and the wine industry Innovating the wine industry with a world-first touch trademark Using entrepreneurial powers for philanthropic endeavours What Michelle wishes she did differently when first starting out Pivoting from wine to tech and crypto Early lessons from angel investing Demonstrating money values to your kids It takes a village to truly be successful Connecting with other women who are innovating and pushing boundaries Learning by being the dumbest person in the room Connect with Michelle online:   Website: https://michellejreeves.com/ LinkedIn: <a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/in/

Thu, August 29, 2024

BONUS: What I’m Up to Since Starting the Podcast — Investments, Experiences and Personal Growth

Hi everyone, I'm thrilled to bring you my first solo episode, giving you a deeper look into my personal journey and sharing the impact of my investments and life experiences this year since starting the podcast.  From exciting investments in women's healthcare and sustainable housing to my intro to Broadway investing with Cabaret, there's a lot to unpack. I also delve into my commitment to continuing education, with a special focus on AI, and discuss some of the incredible opportunities I’ve had in public speaking.  Beyond investments, I discuss my rewarding work with clients, from public speaking coaching to co-CEOing a music tech company and consulting on luxury brands. I also share about my travels and personal milestones — like winning a leadership award, being featured in the New York Times, and buying a house with my husband, John.  Lastly, I reflect on the powerful stories of the incredible women I've interviewed so far and the lessons learned from them. This episode is a celebration of growth, investment, and the journey we're all on to build wealth and leave a lasting legacy. Thank you for tuning in and being part of this exciting journey!    Key Topics: My favorite investments and their missions Investing in my continued education to discover the depths of AI Where I’m traveling and the fun things I’m spending money on Who I’m working with lately Awards and speaking opportunities — TED, SXSW, etc. Family milestones — new house, being a stepmom Lessons and takeaways from the women I’ve interviewed so far Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , @gettingrichpod Website: https://scalingretail.com/ , https://syamabunten.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting

Tue, August 27, 2024

Exploring the Emotional and Philanthropic Side of Money with Emily Scott, Emily Scott AND

I am thrilled to bring the amazing Emily Scott back on the podcast, this time in the interview hot seat, to tell us about her money story and give us a vulnerable look into who she is as a person.   Emily shares deeply about her experience with a tumultuous childhood filled with mixed messages about money to overcoming patriarchal challenges on Wall Street. Despite the struggles and setbacks, she acknowledges that all of those experiences allowed her to be the woman she is today.     Through it all, she found that philanthropy and volunteerism were always what truly spoke to her soul — regardless of financial gain. Now, Emily helps guide people through the emotional stories we create around money to help them understand their own finances and money stories more deeply.   This episode also honors Emily's remarkable leadership and the subtle yet profound impacts she makes by sharing her wealth with others. Don't miss out on this heartfelt conversation packed with lessons on self-advocacy, understanding money stories, and creating a legacy driven by purpose and generosity.  Key Topics: A childhood full of mixed messages around money Navigating insecurities and lacking a sense of self at a young age Learning tough lessons in order to reap the rewards years later Early career moves on Wall Street after leaving retail Learning positive lessons from negative experiences Seeking security in money and careers How therapy helped guide Emily through trauma and career decisions The opposite of uncertainty isn’t certainty; it’s self-trust Playing the role of the “good corporate wife” When you align money with your values, it gives you peace of mind and clarity Shifting from writing $100 checks to $100,000 checks Determining for yourself what’s a no and communicating those boundaries with empathy The difference between how men and women are conditioned to discuss money Shifting from fighting for others to fighting for herself Diving into the emotional side of money Checking in with your values Creating avenues of safety for people to talk about money

Tue, August 20, 2024

Get to Know Me — Taking a Deep Dive Into My Life and Personal Money Story with Emily Scott, Emily Scott AND

Welcome to this very special episode where I had the incredible privilege of being interviewed by the inspiring Emily Scott. This episode is unique as Emily dives deep into my personal money story, leadership journey, and the pivotal moments that shaped who I am today.  We explore my upbringing in San Francisco, my bold ambitions in the fashion industry, and my transformative experiences from personal and business divorces. She asks about my early fascination with economics and retail, my struggles and triumphs negotiating for myself in my career, and how having a supportive community around me, shaped my educational and career pursuits.  Emily and I also delve into the emotional deaths one experiences through life and business challenges, and how self-actualized leadership can transform not only oneself but also the community around us.  Emily asked some thought-provoking and deep questions that allowed me to really bare my soul about my life’s journey so far, and I’m proud to share more of who I am with you.    Key Topics: The importance of education and how external community outside of the home shaped me growing up Finding freedom in realizing, “What do I have to lose?” Taking every opportunity that came my way to prove myself to others Finding mentorship and support within the family Having a sense of determination about my career ambitions from a young age Defining success at a young age Finding opportunity on the dance floor Early lessons in negotiating your worth  The role of money in building a career and business Having no choice but to double down on myself A desire for independence coupled with a desire for community Separating myself from the need to prove myself to others Learning to care for myself instead of others Pain is a great teacher — personal and business divorces Being ok with disappointing others and being disappointed by others Unlocking self-actualized leadership 25 year old Syama vs. now Offering your inner child security  Giving ourselves opportunities to know ourselves in ways we never have before Conn

Tue, August 13, 2024

Finding the Opportunities That Light Your Heart on Fire with Kelley Arena, Founder of Golden Hour Ventures

Dive into the inspiring journey of Kelley Arena, a trailblazing angel investor and advocate for women in business. In this episode, Kelley shares her remarkable story of taking charge of her own story early in life and building a successful career in finance and investing. Kelley's path has been anything but conventional. She opens up about her challenging childhood, her determination to break generational patterns, and her relentless pursuit of education and financial security. She discusses her evolution from investment banking to angel investing, and how becoming a mother shifted her perspective on success and work-life balance. Kelley's current mission is to increase women's access to angel investing and support female founders. She shares her innovative approach to creating investment syndicates and her vision for changing the landscape of venture capital.  This episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and using your experiences to create positive change. Kelley’s story and goals remind us of the importance of pursuing work that truly lights your heart on fire.      Key Topics: Kelley’s determination to break generational cycles Learning the power of self-advocacy to get people to believe in you Following your curiosity to learn from others’ experiences Kelley’s first exposure to a male-dominated career and the lessons it taught her Learning to wear a mask in certain roles in order to learn and get ahead The first feelings of security after earning a big paycheck Unlocking financial literacy through wealthy friends and coworkers Becoming more active in investment spaces Realizing that money alone won’t make you happy Shifting perspectives on success and work-life balance in motherhood Learning from mistakes in angel investing Non-money investments Passing down money stories and values to kids Bringing more women to the investment table Connect with Kelley online:   Website: https://goldenhourventures.co/ Golden Hour Ventures Newsletter: https://goldenhourventures.beehiiv.com/subscribe LinkedIn: <a href= "https://www.linke

Tue, August 06, 2024

The First Generation of Women Pioneering Economic Change with Julie Castro Abrams, CEO of How Women Lead

Today, I had the incredible Julie Castro Abrams on the show. She's a powerhouse in the world of women's wealth and empowerment who has used her career to help build up other women to give them opportunities that previous generations before her have never had.  Julie opened up getting her first internship at the University of Chicago which ultimately sparked her passion for working with other women in social justice initiatives. From there, she’s worked in countless roles, most notably as CEO of the Women’s Initiative for Self-Employment. To highlight her current mission, Julie shares about the gender disparity that still exists in asset management and leadership roles, especially for women of color. She believes that the more women we help find their voice and power, the more we can rebalance the power scales for future generations.  Julie’s story is a testament to the decades she’s dedicated to helping women find opportunities to change their lives. Her vision for the future is clear — she wants every woman to understand the power of her financial decisions and use that power to create systemic change. It's an inspiring legacy she's building for future generations of women in finance and beyond.      Key Topics: Reflecting on the incredible economic and social barriers for women just a few decades ago Julie’s first exposure to ideas that changed her worldview forever Seeing women use their wealth for transformational causes for the first time The impact of women leaders in Julie’s life growing up Forming her life philosophy in her early career Helping women become business owners as the CEO of the Women’s Initiative for Self-Employment Navigating work and chronic illness Becoming foster parents for the first time Learning the true value of how money can change lives Deciding to shift her career in her 40’s to focus on getting more economic power in women’s hands  At what point Julie felt she had power over her own finances Realigning investments with core values Creating an opportunity for an economic power play for women Spending money on fun and enjoyment  Connect with Julie online:   Website: https://www.howwomenlead.com/ The New T

Tue, July 30, 2024

Confidence in Negotiations and Curiosity in Careers with Joanne Bradford, Chief Money Officer of Domain Money

Today, we sit down with Joanne Bradford, a seasoned executive with an impressive career spanning tech giants like Microsoft, Yahoo, Pinterest, and Sofi. Joanne shares her journey from her early entrepreneurial efforts to becoming a key player in the corporate world, offering valuable insights on career growth and financial management. In our conversation, Joanne provides a candid perspective on angel investing, discussing its allure and high-risk potential. She emphasizes the importance of having a clear strategy and realistic expectations when entering this space. We also learn how Joanne's negotiation skills played a crucial role in her career advancement, particularly in navigating complex compensation packages and quota discussions. Her emphasis on curiosity and adaptability throughout one's career is particularly noteworthy. Her story provides a thoughtful look at building long-term financial stability while navigating the corporate landscape. I hope you find Joanne's experiences and insights as enlightening as I did. Her story demonstrates how strategic thinking and persistent effort can lead to both professional success and financial security. Key Topics: The joys of learning to earn and save money as a kid How driving revenue for a business keeps people employed High school performance is not an indicator of future success Running the school newspaper at San Diego State The importance of negotiations to move up in corporate Being on the cutting edge of the online advertising space Upskilling throughout your career is essential Value creation is the real precursor to negotiation Taking a risk to leave corporate and work at a startup How Joanne transformed how Pinterest earns revenue The do’s and don’t’s Joanne learned about investing Taking the shame out of financial mistakes What people don’t tell you about angel investing Putting money to work against your values Staying curious, open, and willing to learn throughout life Connect with Joanne online:   Website: https://www.thefemalequotient.com/our-story/ https://w

Tue, July 23, 2024

The Unique Power of Money to Change People’s Lives For The Better with Christine Heckart, CEO and Founder of Xapa

Today on Getting Rich Together, we're joined by Christine Heckart, a tech industry leader with a powerful perspective on wealth and impact. Christine shares her wealth journey to becoming a successful executive and boldly shares her views on using money as a force for positive change. Christine discusses how she leverages her resources or “currencies” to transform lives, from supporting family members' education to founding Xapa, a company aimed at helping people unlock their true potential to live happier and more fulfilled lives.  She emphasizes that true wealth goes beyond financial assets. Intangible currencies like social, political, emotional, and intellectual capital are all ways Christine encourages others to use generously to make a positive impact on others.  This episode challenges us to reconsider our relationship with money and success. Christine's approach reminds us that our greatest legacy comes from how we use our resources to benefit others and create lasting, positive impact in the world.   Key Topics: Working full-time but never having enough money — early money stories Learning to live on 25 cents per day Studying economics and what drove her decision to study it Conscious capitalism as a way to give capitalism a facelift Pushing the boundaries on earnings goals early in her career Buying land instead of a property The turning point in Christine’s career that made her the breadwinner of the family Only you can decide what is “enough” for you financially Christine’s first realization that money is power to change people’s lives Investing and spending with the heart over the mind Giving your friends and loved ones a seat at the investment table Money is a great way to make others happy Getting filthy enriched™ Connect with Christine online:   Website: https://xapa.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineheckart Press: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/christine-heckart-of-xapa-on-the-case-for-optimism-about-the-next-ten-twenty-years-e869b0

Tue, July 16, 2024

Investing with Your Values - Culture and Creativity with Candice Cook Simmons, The Cook Law Group and CSO at Radical Media

This week on Getting Rich Together, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the amazing Candice Cook Simmons. Let me tell you, this woman is a powerhouse of inspiration when it comes to building wealth on your own terms. In this episode, Candice shares her unique approach to building wealth — one that's all about aligning your money with your values and passions. From Broadway shows to climate-resilient housing in Ghana, we explore how investing in culture and creativity can lead to amazing returns, both financially and personally.  What I love most about Candice's perspective is how she encourages us to think beyond traditional investment vehicles. She reminds us that there's money to be made in amplifying voices and ideas that might be overlooked by others. It's about finding that sweet spot where your investments not only grow your wealth but also contribute to a world you want to see.  That’s the true power of investing with your values.      Key Topics: It takes a village to raise money-savvy kids Candice’s first jobs and money-making ventures Taking ownership of her financial decisionmaking in grad school The unfortunate reality of generational wealth and luxury of choice The great influence our networks and peer groups have on our financial choices Choosing financial stability over a career aligned with passions and interests What’s driving Candice’s decisions around investments today Creating a financial safety net with the Cook Law Group Investing with your values and investing in culture Timing investments and knowing when to say no How often Candice is looking at deal flow Leaving a legacy of equitable opportunity and unapologetic joy for all Connect with Rebecca online:   Instagram: @candicesc1of1 Website: https://www.candicecook.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candice-s-cook-7454177/ Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , @gettingrichpod <p dir

Tue, July 09, 2024

Navigating the Legal Side of Wealth Building with Jennifer Justice, The Justice Department

For many, wealth and money mean security. And for those who grew up without it, that search for security can have even more meaning that we carry with us throughout life. This week’s guest, Jennifer Justice, is no exception.   JJ knew from a young age she was ready to break cycles. From being the first in her family to attend university to become a lawyer, to creating The Justice Department to help inspire women to ask for more in life, she has always had a fire inside of her that’s willing to push boundaries for good.   In this episode, we talk about what it was like starting out in a male-dominated industry, what her turning point was to start focusing on women’s leadership and pushing for gender equality, and the ideals she’s instilling in her children about money.    JJ doesn’t take any of the successes she’s had throughout her career for granted and works hard to ensure that other women are afforded the same opportunities to live richer lives.      Key Topics: JJ’s early experience with poverty in childhood Becoming an attorney to gain stability What she learned from being in male-dominated rooms Learning financial literacy and seeking out more from her money Deciding to work with a financial advisor and early investing experience Moving to become and advocate for women’s equality Investing in female-founded companies as an angel investor Don’t try to do everything yourself, but seek out knowledge and experts Money gives women power to have their voices heard Educating her kids on the value of money and wealth The legacy she’s leaving for her kids and other women The neverending value of using money for travel and experiences Trauma and past pain can end with you Connect with JJ online: Website: https://www.thejusticedept.com/jennifer-justice , https://www.thejusticedept.com/ Instagram: @thejustice.dept TikTok: @takincareofladybusiness Podcast: <a href= "https://podcasts.apple

Tue, July 02, 2024

Taking the Loneliness Out of the Female Founder Journey with Rebecca Minkoff, The Female Founder Collective

This week on Getting Rich Together, get ready for an unfiltered look into the bold life and financial journey of fashion icon Rebecca Minkoff. In this candid conversation, Rebecca lets us in on the lean early days of hustling to build her brand — from a starting salary of $23k in NYC to paying off $60k in credit card debt to start her business. We also explore her mindset around partnering with her brother, taking on investors, buying real estate, and ultimately selling her company when supply chain struggles started to set in.  Rebecca's transparency about the lack of trustworthy financial advice available to founders is an eye-opener, but what struck me most was her driving desire to uplift other women through The Female Founder Collective. Rebecca's legacy goal of empowering women to feel confident, both inside and out, is a powerful reminder that true wealth goes far beyond just money.       Key Topics: Using childhood allowance money to invest in her earliest business — selling arts and crafts at flea markets Rebecca’s decision that college wasn’t for her Rebecca’s earliest career moves working with her brother at an NYC designer Making ends meet on a $23k/yr salary in NYC The first recognition she and her brother got for her designs Finding capital to grow her business once it started to rise in popularity Making her first real moves in saving and investing  Coming to terms with selling the business in 2022 Helping to make the female founder journey less lonely Keeping kids rooted in reality around money What Rebecca is spending money on right now and what she believes is worth the investment Doing work to help build a legacy of uplifting women to have more economic power Rewarding yourself for hard work Money opens doors, but it won’t make you happy Connect with Rebecca online:   Instagram: @thefemalefoundercollective Website: https://femalefoundercollective.com/ The 10th House Membership: https://the10thhouse.femalefoundercollective.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.co

Tue, June 25, 2024

Making Financial Education Accessible For All with Amanda Wolfe, the SHEWOLFEOFWALLSTREET

This week, we have a truly inspiring story of resilience, perseverance, and the power of financial education. Our guest, Amanda Wolfe, shares her incredible journey from a childhood marked by hardship to becoming the powerhouse known as the SHEWOLFEOFWALLSTREET. Amanda candidly discusses the challenges she faced growing up and the determination that fueled her quest for financial freedom. She also discusses her strategic approach to planning her career transitions and her unwavering commitment to empowering others through accessible financial literacy. Amanda later unveils her mission to help women (and men) break free from the shackles of financial insecurity and start living their dream lives today. Her practical insights on couples' finances and her vision for creating a safe space for financial education are truly inspiring.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to take control of their finances, build wealth, and cultivate a fulfilling life on their own terms. Amanda's story will ignite your passion and provide you with the tools to embark on your own journey towards financial freedom.       Key Topics: Using childhood baggage to propel forward in life Finding chosen family through friends in college Amanda’s wake-up call to start taking saving and investing seriously Pre-planning a huge career leap to take off the edge Learning how to learn new things again Summoning the courage to become the SHEWOLFEOFWALLSTREET Opening new doors by closing others How 1-1 coaching showed Amanda people need financial education Money gets you out of survival mode and gives peace of mind Equal vs. equitable in relationships Creating a safe space for women to be empowered and confident in their own money stories Connect with Amanda online:   Instagram: @shewolfeofwallstreet Website: https://shewolfeofwallstreet.com/ Free investing class: https://shewolfeofwallstreet.com/free-investing-class Courses: https://shewolfeofwallstreet.com/courses LinkedIn: <a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/in/

Tue, June 18, 2024

Starting Businesses Young and the Money Lessons Learned Along the Way with Nancy Tsuei

This week on Getting Rich Together, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Nancy Tsuei. Nancy is a force in the retail world, having built businesses and been at the forefront of brands like Bed Bath & Beyond, Millerknoll, Gap, and West Elm. But what many people don't know is her financial prowess and the inspiring ways she's evolved throughout her lifetime to create change, especially in the space of women and wealth. In this episode, we dive into how Nancy's parents shaped her relationship with money, the missteps and lessons she learned early in her career, and how she built multiple streams of income that work together to build on each other.  As she enters her "third phase" of life, Nancy is focused on exiting the corporate world to be of service to others and is working on developing frameworks for deeper human connection. I hope you find Nancy's story as moving and motivational as I did. Her wealth of experience and wisdom is something we can all learn from, no matter what stage of our financial journey we're in.      Key Topics: How Nancy’s immigration story influenced her childhood Starting to build businesses as soon as possible Navigating financial trauma and learning to respect money from a young age Dealing with the ebbs and flows of finances right out of college Why everyone should invest in their 401k if they have it When Nancy started taking bigger risks with money Creating a “double helix” of income Moving into the third phase of her career away from corporate Money does not = happiness Nancy’s approach to money conversations with her kids Spending on travel and experiences The role allyship will play in Nancy’s legacy Connect with Nancy online: Instagram: @ntsuei LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-tsuei-2906321/ Articles: https://www.forbes.com/sites/hollycorbett/2024/02/29/the-great-wealth-transfer-what-it-means-for-women-and-for-the-world/?sh=64eb43cb6525 <str

Tue, June 11, 2024

Why It’s Never Too Early to Start Saving and Investing with Fran Hauser, Founder of Bookbound Co.

Fran Hauser is a true inspiration who has empowered women for decades through her work. In our conversation, she opens up about the profound money lessons she learned from her hardworking immigrant parents at a young age. From doing invoices for her father's business as a child to maxing out her 401k early in her career, Fran shares how those formative experiences instilled strong financial values around saving, responsibility, and appreciating earned income. We explore the pivotal moments that sparked Fran's passion for investing, like receiving stock options early on in her career and getting exposed to startup opportunities while working at Time, Inc.  She shares fascinating insights into her evolving investment portfolio over the years, ultimately investing in over 35 female-founded companies across different sectors. Fran also gets real about the mindset shifts of running your own business versus having corporate resources to lean on. On a personal note, Fran shares her heartfelt approach to raising her two adopted sons. She prioritizes passing down money principles through tools like Greenlight for their allowances, while balancing that with an appreciation for experiences over material items.  Her reflections on creating an empowering legacy through her writing, speaking, and work with female authors is truly inspiring.        Key Topics: Fran’s early lessons about running a business  Feeling lost in choosing a career path What Fran learned from her parents about saving money How stock options from her job changed her viewpoint on investing Fran’s first venture into funding women-led startups Being clear about where you’re putting your time and energy Lessons in running a business vs. working for a large corporation What money lessons she’s passing on to her kids Money is a gift of experience A legacy of helping women unlock their full potential Connect with Fran online: Website (personal): https://www.franhauser.com/ Website (business): https://www.bookboundco.com/ Books: https://www.franhauser.com/books Instagram: @fran_hauser , <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/bookboun

Tue, June 04, 2024

Personal Investment Philosophies and the Feminization of Wealth with Cameron Rogers, Ellevest

On this week’s episode of Getting Rich Together, I had the pleasure of speaking with Cam Rogers, a thought leader and powerhouse in the space of women and wealth. Cam shares her incredible journey with money, starting from her earliest memories of opening her first bank account as a child. Cam walks us through her career path, from working at JP Morgan handling institutional investment portfolios to her current role at Ellevest, a pioneering company focused on closing the gender investing gap.  At Ellevest, Cam gets to directly serve women clients and help them overcome barriers to investing and building wealth. We talk about the "feminization of wealth" — the rising financial empowerment of women through earned income, business successes, and the great wealth transfer from baby boomers. Cam opened up about her personal investment philosophy and approach, where timing is very important in her strategy. She also shares how she finds joy in collecting art from diverse, contemporary women artists and using her wealth for travel and experiences.       Key Topics: Earliest money memories as a kid What it was like working for JP Morgan right out of college Knowing when to walk away from risky investments Transitioning from JP Morgan to Ellevest How Cam’s network has influenced her personal finance journey Balancing your risk when you first start investing Don’t bet the house on a hard investment lesson The feminization of wealth Preparing for The Great Wealth Transfer Wealth means voting with your dollars to effect change Funding things that are transformational for society What purchases bring Cam joy Connect with Cameron online: Website (business): https://www.ellevest.com/ Instagram: @ellevest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-rogers-cfa-85768520/ Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co , @gettingrichpod Website: <a href= "https://

Tue, May 28, 2024

Putting More Women in the Economic Driver’s Seat with Amy Jo Martin, Renegade Global

So many powerful women start with humble beginnings, and Amy Jo Martin is no exception. From a young age, she learned what it meant to truly work hard and pound pavement to get what you want in life. Effort has always been her superpower, and it’s paid off in full.    Now, she wants to give more women that same power to build their wealth by investing in themselves and each other. She believes that the more economic power we give to women, the stronger we all become.    Her early investing stories will inspire you to consider time as its own form of currency, while her philosophy on wealth and legacy will leave you wanting to join the movement she’s trailblazing.    Join us to hear her inspiring story about learning to forge your own path in life while building up others along the way.      Key Topics: Equating success with sacrifice early on in life Effort and hard work as a superpower for success Knowing she could be happy anywhere at any level of success or failure The pivotal career moment that changed her trajectory forever Asking a lot of questions to open doors to more wealth Always be aligned with who you’re investing in Surrounding yourself with the right key influencers as you make investment decisions More women deserve opportunities to invest in each other Paying it forward generationally Investing in experiences and your own personal sanctuary Women don’t just need mentorship, they need sponsorship Seeking like-hearted and like-minded individuals at Renegade Shifting our relationship with time and money for maximum economic impact Connect with Amy Jo online: Website (business): https://www.renegade.global/ Website (personal): https://amyjomartin.com/about-amy-jo Instagram: @amyjomartin Podcast: Why Not Now? LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyjomartin/ </strong

Tue, May 21, 2024

Building Up Black and Brown Businesses One Check at a Time, with Nyakio Grieco, Thirteen Lune

When education meets determination, big things happen. Nyakio Grieco's entrepreneurial journey is no exception.    During our conversation, she takes us back to her childhood growing up in a Kenyan-American household, instilled with the values of hard work, education, and giving back. Despite initial shyness, Nyakio found her voice and bravely struck out on her own in her mid-20s to launch her first beauty brand celebrating African ingredients.   With fearless determination and a mere $172,000 in capital raised from credit cards and loved ones, Nyakio built her brand from the ground up while working tirelessly to ship orders and provide customer service herself. Though the path was difficult, with many starts and stops, her resilience shone through. In 2017, Nyakio's brand was acquired by Unilever, providing her with invaluable experience before she left to co-found her next ventures with her current business partner.   Today, Nyakio is the co-founder of Thirteen Lune and Relevant Skin — companies centered on inclusivity by amplifying BIPOC-owned beauty brands from around the world.    Her vision extends far beyond just business success. Nyakio hopes her legacy will be as a true catalyst in making the beauty industry more equitable. With plans to become a donor helping fund other entrepreneurs' dreams, this inspiring woman is paving the way for generational wealth in communities of color.    Key Topics: Education is freedom — lessons from Nyakio’s parents Finding moments to educate and inspire others to honor her dad’s legacy Nyakio’s first experiences with blatant racism in college Chasing big dreams to move to LA to start her career Getting exposed to the beauty industry through her assistant job Branching out on her own to build her own beauty brand Launching the brand in 180 boutiques with only $172,000 Staying disciplined about your business Self-worth lessons around accepting money from investors Exiting her first business to start the next one Don’t take a backseat on the financial health of your business Teaching kids about poverty consciousness Normalizing women discussing money the same way men do Being a true catalyst for making the beauty industry more equitable Connect with Nyakio online: Websit

Tue, May 14, 2024

The Power of Self-Advocating to Build Your Legacy with Lydia Fenet, Founder & CEO of Lydia Fenet Agency

In this week’s episode, I’m speaking with the incredible Lydia Fenet, an acclaimed auctioneer and two-time bestselling author.    Lydia shares her story of how she grew her relationship with money and what it was like building an understanding of financial literacy throughout her life. After starting her career at Christie’s auction house in her early 20s, she was suddenly faced with the reality of credit cards, saving, and advocating for yourself in the real world.    Lydia takes us through her journey from first discovering she was way underpaid, to now investing in startups that she truly believes in and advocating for other women to do the same.    Her story is truly inspiring for anyone (especially women) looking to jumpstart their investment portfolio and wanting to discover how much greater life can be when the answer is always “yes.”      Key Topics: Lydia’s relationship with money as a child vs. where she is now Experiencing the true value of money from the ultra-wealthy in her 20s Learning to take charge of her own financial future The power of self-advocating always Getting into the layers of investing for the first time What she’s currently interested in investing in Women shouldn’t be scared of investing Money as a form of security Instilling financial literacy in children as a parent The future of Lydia’s entrepreneurial journey Life is better when the answer is always “yes” Lydia’s most joyful purchases What does legacy look like? Connect with Lydia online: Website: https://lydiafenet.com/ Instagram: @lydiafenet Books: The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You , <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Claim-Your-Confidence-Unlock-Superpower/dp/B0B521W547/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BC69UJGJT5CV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Qu8ayIsMNsH9jZSOSSi8x6fDP4K8WM-mTPDy1UYPjlw6_wTeCBe7n1i8fMrTUa2m57YeXkpA6-Ot6HyVgaCNc6hMupbI7mnTJX08Z5cepLBWl6jIopa_Z318-VOuewYWgVxHePpzmpAS1HqClhtq8F2bfs4LQA1vQ9_kieNjJovWjSGBF9tCihvp1DI07sWiCo_Pi2TeNXusBNCvq_7-q_Lyg7bBxmDrDZXAvb

Tue, May 07, 2024

Changing Communities Through Venture Capital Investing with Kim Nixon, Open Venture Capital

“If you give capital to black women, you’ll see entire communities change,” says my wonderful guest this week, Kim Nixon.    Kim’s idea of legacy reaches far beyond her own immediate family, and roots itself in the black community all over the world. She wants to teach black women how to invest their wealth for the betterment of themselves and their communities. When at least 50 women have multiplied their investments, Kim will know her job is done.    In this week’s episode, we discuss Kim’s money stories throughout her life — from her childhood having to spend $1 like it’s $3, to learning about wealth and investing when she was doing real estate. Throughout all stages of her life, she learned a lot about money, wealth, and investing from others. Now, she’s trying to give back and do the same for her peers.    If you’re curious about angel investing, my interview with Kim will give you a sneak peek into what it’s like getting started, and the lessons she learned with her first investments.         Key Topics: Learning to work with money from a young age Becoming attuned to the different opportunities kids have growing up Pounding payment to save up during college How working in real estate changed her views on money and investing Basing her investments on becoming financially free How Kim began her venture fund Using her VC and PC experience to make space for black investors Early lessons in angel investing Considering risk tolerance with investing Bringing financial literacy to the next generation The legacy Kim will leave behind Connect with Kim online: Website: https://openventure.capital/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberleynixon/ Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @gettingrichpod , @syama.co, Website: https://scalingretail.com/ , www.syamabunten.com <strong id= "docs-internal-guid-68703f74-7fff-66b9-6826-0315382acfa

Tue, April 30, 2024

A Playful Path to Entrepreneurial Success in Tech with Amber Allen, Double A Labs

Welcome to the first-ever episode of Getting Rich Together!   In this inaugural episode, I had the joy of interviewing tech founder and entrepreneur Amber Allen of Double A Labs, who has achieved truly remarkable success in her business. She shares how she took a huge risk by leaving the comfort of corporate life to fully commit to her company. That gutsy decision paid off in spectacular fashion — in just the first year, Amber's business generated a staggering $1.5 million in revenue.   The millions continued rolling in, with the company hitting $4.5 million in year two, $6 million the next year, and eventually cresting at $12 million in sales. As the sole founder, Amber expertly navigated the stresses of rapid scaling and growth.   Amber touches on balancing her thriving career with priorities like family, travel, and creative pursuits. As an advocate for designing a wealthy life filled with meaningful experiences, she offers a refreshing perspective on investing in what you truly love.   Today, Amber has created an innovative product that helps people focus and pay attention using gamification principles from her 20 years in the video game industry. Her mission is to build platforms enabling more play, creativity, and curiosity in people's lives. With her incredible entrepreneurial talents and passionate vision, Amber is creating a powerful legacy. Key Topics: Peeling back the layers of Amber’s childhood Learning to take bigger risks when there’s not much to lose Discovering the hard way that money gives us access and opportunities Having one foot in each door of the corporate life and entrepreneurship Investing in milestones vs. spending on “stuff” Your first investment should always be in yourself Using tools that give you shortcuts to success Investing in play and creativity Even if you lose everything, you’ll always have your reputation The power of constructive feedback and learning from people smarter than you Asking what you can do for others vs. asking what people can do for you Spending is about what brings the most value to your life, not the price tag How money conversations manifest in intimate relationships The differences in how me

Fri, March 08, 2024

Welcome to Getting Rich Together!