Ready to shatter the glass ceiling of venture investing? Let’s dive deep into the transformative world of women-led investments. In this episode of How Women Inspire, Amy Dawson and Alissa Livingston unpack the stark reality that women control 52% of wealth yet receive only 2% of venture funding - and why that's about to change. With candid insights, personal stories, and a roadmap for getting started, this conversation is a rallying cry for women to step into their financial potential, challenge traditional investment narratives, and create meaningful economic impact. This week’s episode 169 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about how women investors are changing the venture investing landscape!

This episode was created in partnership with the Nasdaq Foundation. Together, we are working to educate, inspire, and engage women from diverse backgrounds on venture investing and entrepreneurship. Did you know that only 2% of venture funding goes to women-led companies? Together, we are working to show that women are the new face of venture investing.

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Amy Dawson and Alissa Livingston are sharing the importance of approaching investing as a community and actionable steps you can take right now to overcome your internal roadblocks keeping you from investing.

Alissa Livingston is the AVP of Finance Strategies & Initiatives at Saks Global. When she's not using data to analyze new business opportunities, she's taking trapeze lessons or traveling with her two children. Alissa received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University in Chicago, and an MBA from Columbia Business School in the City of New York. She's spent time in Technology Consulting, Investment Banking, and Luxury Retail.

Amy Dawson is a product executive with over 20 years of experience in transforming visions into successful commercial ventures. She excels at identifying product-market fit, developing bundled solutions, scaling new product development from concept to profitability, and driving cross-functional execution for sustainable growth. Amy also serves as a board member for How Women Lead.

Some of the talking points Amy and Alissa go over in this episode include:

• The benefits of learning together, the welcoming and collaborative nature of the venture ecosystem.
• How seeing other women successfully invest can inspire you to confront your investing fears.
• Using your investing journey to teach the next generation about financial literacy and establishing new norms in investing.
• The personal satisfaction and impact of supporting women founders who address issues affecting women and society.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

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How Women Lead

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Are you ready to unlock the secrets to financial empowerment and strategic vision? Today’s episode features a dynamic conversation with Anne Myong, a global transformational leader and operating partner at How Women Invest. Join Julie Castro Abrams as they delve into the critical aspects of financial intelligence, portfolio decisions, and building wealth, specifically tailored for women investors. Anne shares her remarkable journey from Fortune 100 boardrooms to startup success, offering invaluable insights on navigating economic cycles, leveraging compounding interest, and making impactful investment choices. Get ready to elevate your financial acumen and gain the strategic perspective needed to achieve your investment goals and create lasting financial freedom. This week’s episode 168 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about financial intelligence and strategic vision for women investors!

This episode was created in partnership with the Nasdaq Foundation. Together, we are working to educate, inspire, and engage women from diverse backgrounds on venture investing and entrepreneurship. Did you know that only 2% of venture funding goes to women-led companies? Together, we are working to show that women are the new face of venture investing.

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Anne Myong is sharing the importance of starting your investing journey early and actionable steps you can take right now to have financial conversations with your kids to impact them for a lifetime.

Anne Myong is a board member, investor, and advisor to eCommerce, medical device, technology, social media, AI, and retail organizations on finance, audit, mergers & acquisitions, business development, and corporate governance. Anne is on the board of Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALGN), Audit Committee Chairperson, a SEC-qualified financial expert, and a member of the Compensation and Human Capital Committee. From 2016-2022, she was a Board Director, Treasurer, and Chairperson of the Audit and Finance Committees of Goodwill Industries International, a $6B donated goods retail and workforce development non-profit organization.

Some of the talking points Julie and Anne go over in this episode include:

• Opportunities for women to start investing, even with small amounts, and exploring venture capital as an investment class.
• How women can educate themselves about finance and investing.
• Anne’s leadership experience across countries and companies.
• Building wealth and long-term financial strategies.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH ANNE MYONG:

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How Women Lead

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Feeling overwhelmed by the world of investing? You're not alone! Today, we take a dive deep into demystifying financial planning and wealth building with Julianne Averill, an extraordinary CFO, investor, and board advisor. Julianne shares her journey from a music major to a financial powerhouse, revealing accessible strategies for everyone—from those starting with a small windfall to seasoned professionals looking to diversify their portfolios. Get ready to learn practical tips on automation, risk management, and how to confidently step into your investment power, no matter your experience level. This week’s episode 167 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about automation, venture capital, and wealth building!

This episode was created in partnership with the Nasdaq Foundation. Together, we are working to educate, inspire, and engage women from diverse backgrounds on venture investing and entrepreneurship. Did you know that only 2% of venture funding goes to women-led companies? Together, we are working to show that women are the new face of venture investing.

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Julianne Averill is sharing the importance of setting long-term investment plans and actionable steps you can take right now to simplify your investing journey.

Julianne Averill is a healthcare AI executive, strategic CFO, and board leader with 20+ years of experience scaling digital health and biopharma companies, driving billions in capital raises and M\&A. She advises boards and investors on strategy, leveraging her expertise in digital transformation, CPA, SHRM-CP, GenAI, and board certification (NACD.DC). Currently, she is Audit Committee Chair for CureSearch, Operating Advisor to How Women Invest, and Managing Director at Danforth Advisors, leading growth in the SF/West Coast market and serving as interim CFO for late-stage companies, advising on IPOs and capital markets transactions. Her prior leadership roles include finance and strategy at global institutions and venture-backed companies across banking, techbio, and health tech.

Some of the talking points Julie and Julianne go over in this episode include:

• Julianne’s definition of success in investing and investment journey.
• Automating your investments for your busy life.
• Starting small and other advice for beginner investors.
• Setting up and dividing your investment “buckets” based on your income.

Remember, you have what it takes to start making knowledgable investments for your future, and you don’t need a lot of money to get started!

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH JULIANNE AVERILL:

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LinkedIn - Julie

How Women Lead

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Join us for a powerful conversation about women, wealth, and wielding your influence! Today, certified financial planner Sherry Finkel Murphy, founder of MadrinaMolly, shares with us how she’s revolutionizing how women approach their finances and futures. We talk about the cultural narratives, understand the intricacies of risk and opportunity, and learn how to leverage your unique strengths to build a secure and impactful financial legacy. This isn't just another money talk; it's about stepping into your power and creating the future you truly desire. This week’s episode 166 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about financial wisdom and building a secure future!

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Sherry Finkel Murphy is sharing the importance of beginning to learn about the details of your financial life at any age and actionable steps you can take right now to handle your money responsibly and plan for your future.

Sherry Finkel Murphy is Founder and CEO of MadrinaMolly, LLC, a content community and platform that creates and distributes financial and longevity planning education through powerful storytelling. Sherry is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional (CFP®,) Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®,) and Retirement Income Certified Professional® (RICP®.) With 40+ years in multiple successful careers, she excels in helping clients fund both retirement and continuous reinvention. Focusing on a cohort of (mostly) women from 40s to 70s, Sherry delivers financial and longevity planning education in easy-to-understand language.

Some of the talking points Julie and Sherry go over in this episode include:

• Balancing risk and safety in your finances using a pie analogy.
• Automating your savings and investment contributions to ensure consistent growth.
• The role of community and affinity groups in supporting women's financial education and success.
• The benefits of investing in venture through a self-directed Roth IRA.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH SHERRY FINKEL MURPHY:

LinkedIn

Website

MadrinaMolly™

CONNECT WITH JULIE CASTRO ABRAMS:

LinkedIn - Julie

How Women Lead

How Women Invest

How Women Give

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Did you know over 60% of California families speak multiple languages at home? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Anya Hurwitz, Executive Director of SEAL, to unravel the complexities and triumphs of educational equity for multilingual learners. We explore Dr. Hurwitz’s passionate dedication to redesigning education, balancing emotional support with systemic change, and empowering teachers to unlock the full potential of every child. Discover the power of language, the importance of cultural inclusion, and how to transform challenges into opportunities for collective impact. This week’s episode 165 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about educational equity for multilingual learners!

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Anya Hurwitz is sharing the importance of unlocking all of a child’s potential and actionable steps you can take right now to build a team of mentors and supporters in our lives.

Dr. Anya Hurwitz is the President and Executive Director of Sobrato Early Academic Language, a nonprofit in California that works with school districts, county offices of education, schools, preschool LEAs, teachers, families, California Department of Education, and many other education champions to advance educational outcomes of English Learners and Dual Language Learners. Dr. Anya has a longstanding commitment to creating the conditions for public schools to meet the diverse needs of their students’ academic and socio-emotional development. She has worked as a teacher, school leader, district administrator, and within the educational nonprofit sector.

Some of the talking points Julie and Anya go over in this episode include:

• SEAL's mission to help multilingual learners in California and beyond learn, thrive, and lead.
• Several barriers to multilingual education, including the historical context of language policies and the lack of bilingual teachers.
• The balance between fear and courage in leadership roles.
• The power of relationships across different ages and the importance of learning from younger people.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH ANYA HURWITZ:

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X (formerly Twitter)

SEAL website

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LinkedIn - Julie

How Women Lead

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Imagine a world where freezing your eggs isn't just a luxury for the wealthy, and starting a family is a journey filled with ethical considerations and genuine support. That world is becoming a reality thanks to Lauren Makler, founder of Cofertility. In this episode of How Women Inspire, Julie sits down with Lauren to explore the revolutionary ways Cofertility is changing the landscape of reproductive health. From their innovative 'split program' making egg freezing accessible, to their commitment to ethical egg donation and supporting diverse family structures, Lauren's vision is reshaping how we think about family building and gender equality. This week’s episode 164 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about revolutionizing egg donation and fertility solutions!

This episode was created in partnership with the Nasdaq Foundation. Together, we are working to educate, inspire, and engage women from diverse backgrounds on venture investing and entrepreneurship. Did you know that only 2% of venture funding goes to women-led companies? Together, we are working to show that women are the new face of venture investing.

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Lauren Makler is sharing the importance of education and opportunities around fertility solutions and actionable steps you can take right now to support others in their family planning.

Lauren Makler is the Co-Founder and CEO of Cofertility, a human-first fertility ecosystem rewriting the egg freezing and egg donation experience. Previously, as an early Uber employee, Lauren founded Uber Health, a product that enables healthcare organizations to leverage Uber’s massive driver network in improving healthcare outcomes through patient transportation and healthcare delivery. After a rare disease diagnosis, Lauren’s fertility journey led her to believe that everyone should have the opportunity to freeze their eggs–and that there should be better access to egg donors. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their miracle baby girl.

Some of the talking points Julie and Lauren go over in this episode include:

• The lack of diversity in egg donors and the transactional nature of traditional egg donation.
• Lauren’s personal journey with fertility and how it inspired her to pursue creating Cofertility.
• The importance of inclusive regulatory policies that support all types of families.
• The concerns of Gen Z women about their fertility and encouraging awareness and education.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH LAUREN MAKLER:

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Instagram

Cofertility

CONNECT WITH JULIE CASTRO ABRAMS:

LinkedIn - Julie

How Women Lead

How Women Invest

How Women Give

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In the US, women control roughly 85% of the household purchases, which means shopping isn’t just a necessity, it’s a superpower we wield. Diane Osgood, author of the forthcoming book 'Your Shopping Superpower' and co-author of 'The Carbon Almanac.’ Diane, a seasoned expert with over 30 years of experience in sustainable and ethical products and services, delves into the transformative power of women's consumer spending, supporting women-owned and minority-owned businesses, combating climate change, and more through reevaluating and changing how we spend our money. This week’s episode 163 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about understanding your shopping superpower!

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Diane Osgood is sharing the importance of understanding the implications of your spending habits and actionable steps you can take right now to research and shop in a sustainable way.

Diane Osgood is an author and sustainability strategist with 30 years of experience. She helps businesses embed sustainability and ESG into their operations to increase profits, create sustainable products and services, and manage risks. She works with brands, HR, business and product innovation, customer experience, environmental performance, reporting, and charitable activities. Osgood was a senior advisor to President Clinton for the Clinton Global Initiative and served on the Vatican Arts and Technology Council. As VP for Sustainability Strategy at BSR, she co-led BSR’s transformation by growing revenue by 28% over three years. She specializes in sustainability strategy, climate change action, sustainable finance, innovation, social-enterprise, and impact assessment and reporting.

Some of the talking points Julie and Diane go over in this episode include:

• The impact of consumer spending on the economy and how women control roughly 85% of household spending.
• Diane’s journey to study and work in environmental economics, started by witnessing the impact of deforestation.
• Practical steps for sustainable, well-researched shopping.
• Supporting women and minority-owned businesses as a way to vote for a more equitable economy.

Don’t forget to hear over to https://www.dianeosgood.com/books to pre-order your copy of Your Shopping Superpower!

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH DIANE OSGOOD:

Osgood Consulting

Website

LinkedIn

CONNECT WITH JULIE CASTRO ABRAMS:

LinkedIn - Julie

How Women Lead

How Women Invest

How Women Give

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LinkedIn - HWL

Facebook - HWL

In this challenging world that’s full of bias against women, the only person guaranteed to advocate for you is you. Today, we sit down with marketing powerhouse Patti Newcomer for an insightful conversation that's sure to ignite your ambition. Patti shares her personal journey, career advice for women in STEM and leadership, and valuable strategies for building intergenerational wealth. She dives deep into overcoming systemic bias, creating your own personal board of directors, and the importance of financial literacy. No matter where you are in your career, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you step into your power and create the future you envision. This week’s episode 162 of How Women Inspire Podcast is about career advice, investing, and overcoming systemic bias!

In this episode of How Women Inspire Podcast, Patti Newcomer is sharing the importance of always having a point of view in your career and actionable steps you can take right now to build your personal board of directors.

Patti Newcomer is the Chief Marketing Officer at Centerbase, a cloud-based legal practice management solution that gives mid-sized firms the power to streamline their daily tasks with ease and efficiency.. Patti has a unique analytical background and extensive experience in product design and development, marketing strategy and campaigns, consumer research and insights, direct marketing communications, customer experience design and brand strategy and advertising. Patti has a passion for starting from the consumer to develop business-building marketing plans.

Some of the talking points Julie and Patti go over in this episode include:

• Setting boundaries and priorities in the workplace and at home.
• The difference between mentorship and advocacy and the impact of having a supportive manager.
• Unique challenges women face in leadership roles, such as managing emotional work and dealing with systemic bias.
• The importance of financial literacy and planning for the future.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about How Women Inspire at https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH PATTI NEWCOMER:

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CONNECT WITH JULIE CASTRO ABRAMS:

LinkedIn - Julie

How Women Lead

How Women Invest

How Women Give

Instagram - HWL

LinkedIn - HWL

Facebook - HWL