Fearless Females

This week, Lorie Jones welcomes powerhouse financial advisor Cary Carbonaro, whose remarkable path proves success rarely follows a straight line. From her early days in private banking to weathering professional pivots and personal upheaval, Cary stands out as a relentless force finding opportunity through adversity. She opens up about rewriting the rules in a male-dominated industry and why women don't have to fit neatly into any one box—advisor, author, marketer, or speaker. You will find fresh perspectives in her ironclad commitment to self-belief and her strategic take on building a career where confidence is non-negotiable. Don't miss Cary's practical advice for owning your ambition, championing your credentials, and celebrating milestones along the way. This is a conversation designed to energize growth-minded women ready to shape their own legacy. Show Highlights: A nonlinear journey in finance to a No.4 national ranking. [04:34] Betting on your talent over job security at a prestigious firm. [08:34] Why you should get Cary's book Women and Wealth. [10:47] Is occupying a single career box important to be successful? [12:23] The high-return investment of earning CFP certification. [13:37] Risks of unqualified people vetting your separation agreement. [17:36] The importance of listening to good parental and CFP advice. [21:47] Explicit and subtle discrimination against women in finance. [27:59] Two non-negotiables for women entering male-dominated fields. [31:34] Practical advice for young women who want to become CFPs. [35:26] To contact Cary Carbonaro, visit her website https://carycarbonaro.com/ or find her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/carycarbonarocfp/. Click the link to get Cary's book Women and Wealth: https://www.amazon.com/Women-Wealth-Playbook-Empower-Clients/dp/1394300271 If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!   For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females

In this inspiring episode, Sara Simmons, founder of Sera Swimwear and a seasoned HR executive, joins Lorie Jones for a candid conversation about blazing your own trail in male-dominated industries. They'll explore the difference between confidence and competence, the power of investing in yourself, and the reality of growing a career—and a business—from the ground up. Sara shares her unconventional journey from childhood fashion dreams to building startups, navigating setbacks, and undertaking unique challenges as a woman leader. Whether you're just getting started or facing your own crossroads, this episode delivers the wisdom, grit, and practical advice you need to take the next fearless step in your career. Get ready to be inspired and empowered on your own path to success! Show Highlights: Two must-reads for leading organizations with a competitive edge. [03:48] The opportunity in underserved plus-size apparel with data. [10:58] The indispensable value of CE and professional certification. [16:06] How to recognize a stagnant job and cues for a change. [16:37] Who's in your combined Voltron of key advisors? [19:54] Why the advice you take must fit your context and realism. [20:33] The truth about fearlessness and micro steps. [28:52] Advice to find a 401(k) employer match. [32:24] Balance vs. work-life integration for multi-hyphenate women. [34:24] Avoid opportunistic thought leaders as early-career women. [39:47] Confidence vs. competence in real-life business building. [41:51] Connect with Sara Simmons on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-s-053a1a126/. Sara can also be reached via email at [email protected]. If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!   For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.