How does one start a career in investment strategy? For that matter, what IS an investment strategist? In this special episode, host Liz Thomas gets on the other side of the mic in conversation with Brian Walsh, a.k.a. “Dr. Money,” Head of Advice and Planning at SoFi. Brian and Liz discuss her career evolution, from early career pivots, to what she does as an investment strategist, to how to communicate ideas in finance effectively. 

Liz Thomas is the Head of Investment Strategy at SoFi. Prior to SoFi, Liz was the Director of Market Strategy at BNY Mellon Investment Management. As an analyst, she worked at both BMO Global Asset Management as well as Baird. Liz earned her BBA in Finance and Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and her MBA from Marquette University.

For more, read Liz’s column every Thursday at On The Money by SoFi, sign up for the On The Money newsletter, and follow Liz @LizThomasStrat.

Notable mentions in the episode:

00:00 Introduction

02:10 Growing up in Wisconsin

03:32 Money lessons and values

06:10 Finding finance in college

07:42 Early career

10:27 Pivotal career moments

19:10 What is an investment strategist?

24:31 Career advice

28:07 Career at SoFi

31:55 Experience as a female in a male-dominated industry

35:18 Liz’s financial information diet

40:50 Keeping a level head through market volatility

44:28 Investment role models

48:01 Communicating ideas in finance

51:44 Closing Thoughts

Additional resources:

On The Money: Sign up for SoFi's newsletter for intel, insights, and inspo to help you get your money right.

Investing 101 Center: At SoFi, we believe investing is for everyone — which is why we’ve created a hub with info for beginners and experts alike. Start exploring to get investment education, advice, resources, and more.

Wealth Investing Guide: Information you need to know to make your money work harder for you.

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