Episodi
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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:
Website: https://athenaalliance.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cocobrown/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/athena-alliance/
Instagram: @athenaalliance
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://syamabunten.com/
Download Syama's Guide to Getting Rich: www.syamabunten.com
Women & Wealth Catalyst Summit: https://women.win/
Big Delta Capital: www.bigdeltacapital.com
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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 Brown of Venture Capital
Connect with Laurel online:
Fabric VC: https://www.fabricvc.com/partners
Elevate My Brand: https://www.elevatemybrand.com/about
Elevate Your Brand Podcast: https://www.elevatemybrand.com/podcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-mintz/
Instagram: @laurelmintz
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://syamabunten.com/
Download Syama's Guide to Getting Rich: www.syamabunten.com
Women & Wealth Catalyst Summit: https://women.win/
Big Delta Capital: www.bigdeltacapital.com
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Episodi mancanti?
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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-patterson/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sathya-chey-arisepw/
Instagram: @ariseprivatewealth
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://syamabunten.com/
Download Syama's Guide to Getting Rich: www.syamabunten.com Women & Wealth Catalyst Summit: https://women.win/ Big Delta Capital: www.bigdeltacapital.com -
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:
Website: https://okeeffefinancialpartners.com/our-team/kristin-okeeffe-merrick/
Women Work F*ing Hard: https://wwfh.community/
Make Money Less Weird: https://makemoneylessweird.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaFqIzEIlesNqa_qMTzCVaq5SQy2FDuC9ktRw91JWeSgMuXjLGMeuNqM28_aem_LgOfINnBF7mSftVDPbN6tg
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-merrick-32a1b1b7/
Instagram: @thegirlwhosavesmoney
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://syamabunten.com/
Download Syama's Guide to Getting Rich: www.syamabunten.com Women & Wealth Catalyst Summit: https://women.win/ Big Delta Capital: www.bigdeltacapital.com -
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: @gpgram
Support the Causes Gina Supports:
Center for Reproductive Rights
Center for Investigative Reporting
McSweeney’s Publishing
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://syamabunten.com/
Download Syama's Guide to Getting Rich: www.syamabunten.com Women & Wealth Catalyst Summit: https://women.win/ Big Delta Capital: www.bigdeltacapital.com -
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
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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/, https://www.socialcurator.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmine-star/
Instagram: @jasminestar, @socialcurators
Podcast: The Jasmine Star Show
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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: https://www.kellyannwinget.com/, https://www.alternativewealthpartners.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyannwinget/
Instagram: @kellyannwinget
Podcast: https://www.kellyannwinget.com/wealth-alpha-podcast
Book: Pitch The Bitch: Grab Your Financial Future By The Bags
Show Her The Money Movie: https://showherthemoneymovie.com/
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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: https://www.thefourtheffect.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrindehaen, https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fourth-effect?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company
Instagram: @thefourtheffect
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellylombard/
Instagram: @dreamventures.co
Become a Founding Schmooze member for only $21/month: https://schmooze.biz/pages/membership-sign-up
Get a free month trial for following Shelly on Linkedin
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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 Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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: [email protected]
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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
Connect with Janine online:
Website: https://investforbetter.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janine-firpo-047282
Book: https://activateyourmoney.net/
Instagram: @janinefirpo
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-reeves-25a41013/
Instagram: @michellejreeves
What Now Podcast: https://michellejreeves.com/podcast/
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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
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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
Connect with Emily online:
Website: https://emilyscottand.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyscottand/
Instagram: @emilyscottand
TED Talk: https://emilyscottand.com/ted-talk
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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
Connect with Emily online:
Website: https://emilyscottand.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyscottand/
Instagram: @emilyscottand
TED Talk: https://emilyscottand.com/ted-talk
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelley-arena-9915521a0/
Instagram: @kelleyarena
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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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 Table: https://www.howwomenlead.com/new-table
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-castro-abrams/
Instagram: @howwomenlead
Find more from Syama Bunten:
Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
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