Despite her background in financial services, Lacy Garcia faced significant financial challenges after her marriage ended. She struggled with imposter syndrome, advising clients on finances while dealing with her own financial issues. Too embarrassed to seek help and unable to find the right advisors, Lacy turned her fear and discomfort into a drive for financial education and empowerment. She founded Willow, a fintech company focused on making financial advice more accessible, especially for those overlooked by traditional services. In this episode, Lacy joins Ilana to share insights on financial literacy, achieving stability and independence, and Willow’s approach to matching clients with the right advisors.

Lacy Garcia is the founder and CEO of Willow, an award-winning platform that connects clients with certified financial advisors using an AI-powered matching system based on their financial goals and preferences. 

In this episode, Ilana and Lacy will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction 

(01:44) How Divorce Shaped Her Passion for Financial Education

(04:02) Finding Clarity Amid Financial Fears and Uncertainties

(09:52) From Financial Ignorance to a Career in Finance

(13:14) Letting Go of Shame to Achieve Financial Health

(16:13) Why You Don’t Need More Money to Start Investing

(20:01) Creating Willow to Make Financial Advice Accessible

(24:29) How Personal Experience Shaped Willow's Mission

(29:07) Navigating the Weight of Decision-Making in Startups

(34:31) The Role of Investment in Startup Growth

(39:56) Ways to Avoid Common Financial Mistakes

(42:55) Getting Personalized Financial Advice for Free

(43:55) The Importance of Financial Literacy

Lacy Garcia is the founder and CEO of Willow, an award-winning platform that connects clients with certified financial advisors using an AI-powered matching system based on their financial goals and preferences. She is passionate about empowering advisors to better serve the next generation of clients through tailored training programs. Lacy has been featured in top media outlets like The TODAY Show, Business Insider, and Yahoo Finance, and was named Hispanic Empowering Executive of the Year in 2023 by Wealth Solutions Report.

Connect with Lacy:

Lacy’s Website: https://www.trustwillow.com/ 

Lacy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lacy-garcia/ 

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