#85: Isabelle Freidheim, Founder of Athena Capital — The benefits of being an only child, creating opportunities for women in finance, and unlocking hidden talent
Feb 11, 2025
auto_awesome
Isabelle Freidheim, founder of Athena Capital and the youngest chairman of a publicly traded company in the U.S., shares her inspiring journey. She discusses the unique challenges women face in finance and the importance of creating opportunities through SPACs. Freidheim emphasizes the benefits of empowering women in leadership roles and shares personal anecdotes of overcoming self-doubt. Her early entrepreneurial experiences shaped her innovative approach to investment, highlighting the value of resilience and collaboration in building successful, women-led teams.
Isabelle Freidheim emphasizes the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities based on her diverse childhood experiences and entrepreneurial journey.
Athena Capital was founded to empower women in finance, addressing gender disparities and enhancing decision-making through diverse perspectives.
Effective networking is crucial for success, highlighting the need for meaningful connections to create unexpected opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Deep dives
The Importance of Proactive Investing
Investing requires making informed market bets based on future expectations. Unexpected macro events can disrupt industries, as demonstrated by the shift in investment focus from flu vaccines to COVID-19 solutions. Investors must actively analyze market trends and adapt their strategies accordingly, as reliance on previous assumptions can lead to poor outcomes. A proactive approach in investment is crucial for navigating unpredictable environments and ensuring sustained growth.
The Journey of an Entrepreneur
Isabel Friedheim reflects on her early experiences as an entrepreneur, starting with selling Tiger Balm at school. This formative venture taught her adaptability and the importance of pursuing opportunities, a lesson reinforced by her diverse upbringing. Her experiences in various roles, from investment banking to private equity, highlight the significance of flexibility and seizing opportunities to learn and grow. The chaotic circumstances of her childhood fostered creativity and a unique perspective that shaped her entrepreneurial journey.
Building a Women-Run Investment Fund
Athena Capital was founded with a mission to leverage underutilized female talent in the investment industry. Isabel recognized the lack of women in leadership roles within financial products and aimed to create opportunities for women to participate in the economic landscape. This approach not only addresses gender disparities but also enhances the decision-making process through diverse perspectives. By assembling a team of top-tier female professionals, the fund has successfully raised capital and executed transactions in a challenging investment climate.
The Power of Networking
Effective networking is essential for entrepreneurs and investors, as it strengthens relationships and creates opportunities. Isabel emphasizes the importance of genuine connections, encouraging individuals to reach out to past contacts and maintain relationships over time. Building a strong network is less about active recruitment and more about fostering meaningful interactions that may benefit both parties in unexpected ways. By recognizing the value within their existing networks, founders can leverage relationships to enhance their professional journeys.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a common challenge faced by many entrepreneurs and investors, often leading to self-doubt and anxiety. Isabel encourages individuals to process their experiences, reminding them that feelings of inadequacy can often stem from distorted perceptions. By reframing their thoughts and recognizing their capabilities, individuals can build confidence and push through uncomfortable situations. Surrounding oneself with supportive peers and understanding the broader impact of a mission can also provide a sense of purpose and alleviate feelings of doubt.
Isabelle Freidheim is the founder and managing partner of Athena Capital. She is the youngest chairman of a publicly traded company in the U.S. In her role as managing partner of Athena Capital, Freidheim oversees the company's strategic direction and leads its efforts in identifying and investing in technology companies.
Freidheim is an entrepreneur and investor with more than 15 years of experience in venture capital, private equity, SPACs and IPOs. She founded Athena in 2020. Athena Capital invests at the intersection of private companies preparing to go public or considering M&A exits. Athena’s platform includes board members of Fortune 100 companies and CEOs, Fortune 500 companies, company founders and investors. Freidheim is one of Inc's 250 Female Founders in 2024, a member of The Council on Foreign Relations and an alumna of Fortune's Most Powerful Women.