From Finance to Fintech: The Founders' Journey with Aila Money

In this episode of the 'She Founds' podcast, Bhavisha talks with Nitika Vyas and Elizabeth Prager, co-founders of Aila Money, a personal finance app designed to help individuals achieve their financial goals. With backgrounds in finance and a shared desire to make a greater impact, Nitika and Elizabeth recount their transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. They discuss their journey in developing their MVP, the pitfalls and triumphs of marketing on social media, and how their friendship plays a crucial role in their startup dynamic. Both founders also shed light on the practical steps they took, the challenges faced as non-tech founders, and their inspirations and self-care rituals that keep them grounded.

00:00 Introduction to Founders' Journey

00:31 Launching the MVP: Practical Steps

01:03 Marketing Strategies on Social Media

01:30 Meet the Founders: Nitika and Liz

05:59 The Genesis of Aila Money

11:11 Balancing Friendship and Business

14:34 Managing Parenthood and Entrepreneurship

15:48 Transitioning to Full-Time Founders

18:31 Building the App: Challenges and Advice

28:54 Personalized Messaging Journey

29:30 Mastering User Feedback

30:42 First Customers and Growth Strategies

34:24 Social Media Marketing Insights

42:22 Emotional Connection in Finance

46:14 Final Thoughts and Advice for Founders