This episode of the Power of the Ask podcast features economic equity strategist Mary Hagerty Ehrsam, president of partnerships at Operation HOPE, Inc., where she cultivated $300M in revenue streams and avenues for growth, scale, and sustainability.

For more than three decades, Mary has served as a leader in economic equity and financial dignity, working to drive $3.5B in private investment into underserved, low-wealth communities worldwide. She developed and launched the HOPE youth programs, expanded the HOPE Inside model nationwide, and led the global expansion in South Africa and the Middle East.

On the podcast, Mary shares how she came to Operation HOPE more than 25 years ago and how its mission to enact social justice through an economic equity lens was something that resounded with her. She has led the organization nationally to 274 cities, educating millions of individuals. But, Mary stresses, it's not just about the numbers and outputs, it's about the outcomes.

For Mary, teamwork makes the dream work. Her passion for economic equity, financial dignity, corporate social responsibility, and public-private partnerships is inspiring and a great listen.

Overview
Tell Us About Yourself 00:00
What Are You Most Proud Of 15:42
Why Financial Education Is Important 20:57
Taking Control of Your Future 26:47
What Programming Is Impactful? 32:40
Growing Demands 38:01

Important Links:

Lisa Zeiderman, Esq., CDFA, CFL - Forbes Business Council | LinkedIn
Precious L. Williams - Perfect Pitch Group | LinkedIn
Mary Ehrsam | LinkedIn

Join the movement of empowerment with "The Power of the Ask" podcast, where women are encouraged to embrace their voices. Hosted by Savvy Ladies Lisa Zeiderman and Precious Williams, this episode features an insightful conversation with Clara Sierra, a trailblazing figure in the financial industry.

Clara Sierra, a Dominican American working mom, shares her journey from humble beginnings to senior director of business development at Moody’s Analytics. Through her story, listeners will be inspired to break free from societal norms, embrace their authenticity, and build strong networks that elevate themselves and others.

The episode delves into the importance of networking, authenticity, and asking for what you’re worth in both personal and professional spheres. With practical advice and powerful insights, Clara encourages women of diverse backgrounds to step into their power and create meaningful change in their lives and communities.

Listeners are reminded that success is not a solo journey but a collective effort, and by lifting each other up and advocating for themselves, women can redefine the narrative and achieve their fullest potential. Join the movement of empowerment today and unleash the power of asking.

Overview
Tell Us About Yourself 0:00
Building Your Network 6:13
Connecting Diversity in the Financial Industry 12:39
What Do You Take the Most Pride In? 17:59
Impactful Change 22:09

Important Links:

Lisa Zeiderman, Esq., CDFA, CFL - Forbes Business Council | LinkedIn
Precious L. Williams - Perfect Pitch Group | LinkedIn
Clara Sierra | LinkedIn

This episode of the Power of the Ask podcast features investment professional Derby Chukwudi, the current Miss New Jersey USA and a 1st generation Nigerian-American born in Dallas, TX, raised in Lagos, Nigeria, and now resides in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Derby shares her inspiring story of juggling a demanding career on Wall Street with her reign as Miss New Jersey USA. She is passionate about advocating for financial literacy among young people to prepare them for a future of financial freedom and choices. On the podcast, she discusses the importance of building capacity, asking for what you want, and using your voice to make a difference. Her insights on leadership, goal-setting, and overcoming fear will motivate you to pursue your own dreams, no matter how big they may seem.

Derby Chukwudi’s Bio:

Derby is a member of the Global Investment Strategy Team at JPMorgan Private Bank in Midtown, New York. Prior to this role, she worked at the New Jersey Private Bank alongside a team responsible for advising ultra-high-net-worth individuals, families, and foundations on various wealth management matters, including asset allocation and investment portfolio construction, lending, and wealth transfer planning. Derby joined J.P. Morgan in 2018 as a Summer Analyst and returned full-time in 2019 after graduating with her undergraduate degrees. Derby graduated cum laude from Berea College with a BSc. Degree in Business Administration and B.A. degree in Economics.

Overview:
Personal Growth and Legacy (01:20)
Career Growth and Financial Literacy (17:34)
Networking and Asking the Right Questions (27:00)

Important Links:
Savvy Ladies
Precious Williams' LinkedIn
Lisa Zeiderman's LinkedIn
Derby Chukwudi's LinkedIn