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I had the pleasure of speaking with Kristen Merrick, a renowned evangelist for women’s wealth management. Known for her abundance mindset and community support, Kristen 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, Kristen'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, Kristen reflects on the importance of financial planning and offering sound advice while humanizing the financial struggles many face. We also dive into Kristen'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.
Kristen'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 -
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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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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://www.domainmoney.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-bradford-9a588022/
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 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-e869b0d904e7
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 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
Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting
- Visa fler
