Rewriting the Narrative: How Julie Castro Abrams is Shaping the Future of Women in Leadership and Investment

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On this episode of Badass Women in Business, hosts Aggie and Cristy sit down with Julie Castro Abrams, the CEO of How Women Lead and How Women Invest. Julie shares her journey of empowering women to break barriers in leadership and investment, the cultural biases that hold women back, and the tangible strategies to rewrite those narratives.

Julie discusses the "middle essence" life stage, a transformative period where women shift from climbing career ladders to seeking meaningful impact. With a network of over 25,000 women, Julie sheds light on the importance of collective action to increase women’s representation on corporate boards and in venture capital. From the power of diverse leadership to practical advice for navigating investments, Julie’s insights resonate deeply with entrepreneurs, executives, and changemakers alike.

Notes:

• Cultural Narratives and Self-Limiting Beliefs:
  • Many powerful women struggle with internalized narratives stemming from early life. Julie highlights the need to identify and rewrite these stories.
  • Confidence is a key element for breaking through these barriers.
• The "Middle Essence" Life Stage:
  • A period in life (mid-40s to 70s) when women focus on making an impact and building meaningful connections.
  • Women need peers who can inspire and support them at this stage.
• Women on Corporate Boards:
  • Julie’s work has helped drive initiatives to increase the number of women on corporate boards, leading to better financial performance and decision-making.
  • Companies with diverse boards disrupt groupthink and are better positioned for long-term success.
• Investment and Economic Power:
  • Women are underrepresented in venture capital, receiving just 1.8% of funding in 2023.
  • Julie advocates for women to invest in women-led companies and funds to shift this imbalance.
• Angel Investing vs. Venture Funds:
  • Angel investing involves direct investments into startups, often high-risk but with potential for personal connection.
  • Venture funds offer diversification and professional management, reducing individual risk.
• Julie’s Leadership Philosophy:
  • Empowering women requires collective action and accountability.
  • Her initiatives like #GetOnBoard and The New Table aim to create systemic change by mobilizing women in leadership and investment.

Connect with Julie Castro Abrams:

• Website: How Women Lead | How Women Invest
• LinkedIn: Julie Castro Abrams | How Women Lead
• Instagram: @HowWomenLead
• Facebook: How Women Lead

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