Getting Rich Together

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

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

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  

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

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

This week on Getting Rich Together, get ready for an unfiltered look into the bold life and financial journey of fashion icon Rebecca Minkoff. In this candid conversation, Rebecca lets us in on the lean early days of hustling to build her brand — from a starting salary of $23k in NYC to paying off $60k in credit card debt to start her business. We also explore her mindset around partnering with her brother, taking on investors, buying real estate, and ultimately selling her company when supply chain struggles started to set in.  Rebecca's transparency about the lack of trustworthy financial advice available to founders is an eye-opener, but what struck me most was her driving desire to uplift other women through The Female Founder Collective. Rebecca's legacy goal of empowering women to feel confident, both inside and out, is a powerful reminder that true wealth goes far beyond just money.       Key Topics: Using childhood allowance money to invest in her earliest business — selling arts and crafts at flea markets Rebecca’s decision that college wasn’t for her Rebecca’s earliest career moves working with her brother at an NYC designer Making ends meet on a $23k/yr salary in NYC The first recognition she and her brother got for her designs Finding capital to grow her business once it started to rise in popularity Making her first real moves in saving and investing  Coming to terms with selling the business in 2022 Helping to make the female founder journey less lonely Keeping kids rooted in reality around money What Rebecca is spending money on right now and what she believes is worth the investment Doing work to help build a legacy of uplifting women to have more economic power Rewarding yourself for hard work Money opens doors, but it won’t make you happy Connect with Rebecca online:   Instagram: @thefemalefoundercollective Website: https://femalefoundercollective.com/ The 10th House Membership: https://the10thhouse.femalefoundercollective.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccaminkoff/ Super Women Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/superwomen-with-rebecca-minkoff/id1426026971 Book: https://www.amazon.com/Fearless-Unlocking-Creativity-Courage-Success/dp/1400220718 Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting  

This week, we have a truly inspiring story of resilience, perseverance, and the power of financial education. Our guest, Amanda Wolfe, shares her incredible journey from a childhood marked by hardship to becoming the powerhouse known as the SHEWOLFEOFWALLSTREET. Amanda candidly discusses the challenges she faced growing up and the determination that fueled her quest for financial freedom. She also discusses her strategic approach to planning her career transitions and her unwavering commitment to empowering others through accessible financial literacy. Amanda later unveils her mission to help women (and men) break free from the shackles of financial insecurity and start living their dream lives today. Her practical insights on couples' finances and her vision for creating a safe space for financial education are truly inspiring.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to take control of their finances, build wealth, and cultivate a fulfilling life on their own terms. Amanda's story will ignite your passion and provide you with the tools to embark on your own journey towards financial freedom.       Key Topics: Using childhood baggage to propel forward in life Finding chosen family through friends in college Amanda’s wake-up call to start taking saving and investing seriously Pre-planning a huge career leap to take off the edge Learning how to learn new things again Summoning the courage to become the SHEWOLFEOFWALLSTREET Opening new doors by closing others How 1-1 coaching showed Amanda people need financial education Money gets you out of survival mode and gives peace of mind Equal vs. equitable in relationships Creating a safe space for women to be empowered and confident in their own money stories Connect with Amanda online:   Instagram: @shewolfeofwallstreet Website: https://shewolfeofwallstreet.com/ Free investing class: https://shewolfeofwallstreet.com/free-investing-class Courses: https://shewolfeofwallstreet.com/courses LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shewolfeofwallstreet/ 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 pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Nancy Tsuei. Nancy is a force in the retail world, having built businesses and been at the forefront of brands like Bed Bath & Beyond, Millerknoll, Gap, and West Elm. But what many people don't know is her financial prowess and the inspiring ways she's evolved throughout her lifetime to create change, especially in the space of women and wealth. In this episode, we dive into how Nancy's parents shaped her relationship with money, the missteps and lessons she learned early in her career, and how she built multiple streams of income that work together to build on each other.  As she enters her "third phase" of life, Nancy is focused on exiting the corporate world to be of service to others and is working on developing frameworks for deeper human connection. I hope you find Nancy's story as moving and motivational as I did. Her wealth of experience and wisdom is something we can all learn from, no matter what stage of our financial journey we're in.      Key Topics: How Nancy’s immigration story influenced her childhood Starting to build businesses as soon as possible Navigating financial trauma and learning to respect money from a young age Dealing with the ebbs and flows of finances right out of college Why everyone should invest in their 401k if they have it When Nancy started taking bigger risks with money Creating a “double helix” of income Moving into the third phase of her career away from corporate Money does not = happiness Nancy’s approach to money conversations with her kids Spending on travel and experiences The role allyship will play in Nancy’s legacy Connect with Nancy online: Instagram: @ntsuei LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-tsuei-2906321/ Articles: https://www.forbes.com/sites/hollycorbett/2024/02/29/the-great-wealth-transfer-what-it-means-for-women-and-for-the-world/?sh=64eb43cb6525 Find more from Syama Bunten: Instagram: @syama.co, @gettingrichpod Website: https://scalingretail.com/, https://syamabunten.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/scalingretailconsulting  

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