Beyond Textbooks: The Financial Lessons That Stick

I'm incredibly happy with our team and the momentum we’ve created as we kicked off 2025. Last Friday, we hosted the final session of leadHERs two-part Finance January workshop series.

Late last year, I was searching for a speaker with finance expertise, authenticity, and no fear of vulnerability. After my first call with Nadja N. Grünert, I knew she was the perfect fit. She brought not just knowledge, but experience & wisdom to the table.

In our first conversation, she shared:

"Reflecting on it, I thought about finances too late. When I had my first child, I was confronted with an unexpected financial reality."

That honesty is exactly what I want to bring into these workshops - not just textbook knowledge, but real-life financial lessons from women who’ve faced challenges, made mistakes, and have grown from them.

These sorts of conversations often stay behind closed doors, and it’s time we give them a stage they deserve. And so we did, together with Nadja we sparked engaging discussions about financial goals, broke down money taboos, and created a space where sharing felt safe.

Financial Lessons, Networks, Literacy & More

A standout exercise: Reflecting on your financial network. Who shapes your financial literacy? Think podcasts, books, finance influencers, and - most importantly - friends you can discuss investments & savings with.

Friday's experience reinforced a belief I’ve held close: true understanding grows through open conversations and meaningful exchange. This is what sets us apart from traditional learning spaces, creating an environment where personal growth flourishes.

And there’s more! Nadja is the latest guest on the German leadHER-podcast, continuing the conversation.

It felt bittersweet to close the evening, not because the conversations were over, but because they were just beginning - and that’s exactly what I had hoped to achieve.

Huge thanks to Stella Melbye-Konan for hosting us at the beautiful Galerie Melbye-Konan, a space that naturally fosters connection and dialogue. A heartfelt thanks to our incredible participants, whose profound curiosity made all the difference.

Here’s to more 2025 lessons leading to a successful work-life!

Pictures by Lena Meier