Describe your business in a few words?
An accessible place where anyone can learn to invest and build wealth, regardless of their net worth.
What made you take the leap to start your own business?
I realized that it was only those who were already wealthy that had access to quality financial guidance. I got to a point in my career where I was only helping people that had already made it financially. I wanted to help people like me. Those that were just getting started and trying to figure out where to begin in the investing and wealth creation process.
What was your background prior to starting your own business?
I was licensed as a stockbroker and financial advisor. I worked for Charles Schwab, Morgan Stanley and E*Trade for 7 years. I became a Certified Financial Planner and still carry that designation. It's the "gold standard" in the financial planning world.
Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?
Not at all. I always knew I wanted to figure out how to make good money. I was able to pass the 6 figure mark and then set my sights on 7 figures. The financial advisors making 7 figures were the corner office guys that had been there for 25 years. I knew there was a better way. I'm still figuring that out, but it's in sight at least now.
Take us back to when you first launched your business, what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?
I focused all of my energy on building my YouTube channel. I thought that would take off and it would be what got me "there." I also used my IG to teach people finance and investing tips. Didn't go as planned... I'm 110 videos into my channel and it's sloooowly picking up traction. I am monetized and make about $90 bucks per month there lol. It's a start though so I'm grateful.
We always learn the most from our mistakes, share a time with us that you made a mistake or had a challenging time in business and what you learned from it?
I didn't offer services until nearly 2 years into the biz (I'm 3 years in now). I kept "waiting" for my audience to grow, but learned that I need to give people a way to pay me and actually tell people about what I can do for them that is worth them paying me for. I thought I would repel people by asking them to pay me, but in reality the opposite happened. Since I launched my beta course offering 5 months ago, my Instagram account has grown by 1k people.
What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?
Launching a course that teaches beginners how to invest. I had no idea how much work that would be, but it's been incredibly rewarding so far. My beta offering had 42 people join and I'm about to launch the fully built course at the end of Sept. I scripted and filmed 26 videos and 18 screen share tutorials for this upcoming launch, so I am really proud of the work I've done as I know it's going to help so many people start their investing journey.
When hiring for your team, what is your go-to interview question? Please share any hiring tips you can share from your experience?
Good question... I need to formulate these. I have hired a web/brand designer, an editor for my YouTube videos, a VA, a videographer for my course, a photographer and that's it so far. I've leaned into the laws of attraction and synchronicity so far to hire everyone I have and it's worked out great so far.
How has your business or industry been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?
When it first hit, it gave me the idea to offer free individual services to anyone that needed financial guidance. I had over 30 people sign up and I gave them 1-3 calls depending on how much help they needed. This was before I had any paid offerings and it made me realize that I could charge for what I was doing. The time also taught me how to do everything virtually which is amazing because I can now help people anywhere.
What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?
I'll have this upcoming course offering at the end of Sept. Then I'll partner with affiliates to help me sell my course until it's in the multiple 6 figure range and then go evergreen. I also have visions of speaking for big impactful events, being interviewed by the by the media, and really becoming the go to person for investing help for beginners.
What is the biggest lesson you have learned in 2020?
That it's ok to just be. We aren't in a race and it's ok to chill when you need to. You can pick back up when you're ready.
What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting your business?
That it's going to take time. Success is a process. We see all these stories of people doing X thing in 6 months or a year and it can feel really defeating. It takes time to learn what you're even giving to the world in exchange for money and how to make that really good.
How have you managed to stay grounded this year?
100% my husband. He always reminds me that I am my own boss and I can take it easier on myself. I can extend my deadlines, miss an upload, and/or watch netflix for a week if I need to. He keeps reminding me that it will happen. It takes time.
Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?
I didn't for a long time, but I saw how much time I was missing with my daughter and realized if I kept it up I would miss everything. What's the point of success if you miss your kids' childhood along the way. That's what I leaned into as I transitioned into the entrepreneur life. Best tips would be to do what you truly want and to think about the opportunity cost of the choices you're making.
What's something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?
That I've lived in a few homeless shelters growing up. My dad was an alcoholic and my mom did her best, but she moved to America in her 20s and was on her own to figure everything out. She had an incredibly challenging life. It's my driving force to do everything to give her the life she deserves.
What are your top 3 tips to stay productive each day?
Make a plan for the day. Put your phone on do not disturb while you're working on your priorities. Exercise (I fail at this constantly, but my best days are the ones where I do this lol)
What does being an Entreprenista League member mean to you?
Fiercely going after your dreams and goals alongside other women who are doing the same! It's incredible to see so many amazingly powerful, driven women in one place!
About the Author
Entreprenista Team
