Getting Rich Together

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

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

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

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  

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

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

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  

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  

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

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