Women in the Lead: Navigating the Financial Landscape as Female Financial Advisors

Over the course of her 30+-year career, Gretchen has founded and grown more than five businesses. Her journey to success has been guided by one true passion: to help people create the life they want, even when that means challenging the status quo. As Beyond AUM's co-founder, she works with dozens of advisory teams, COIs, custodians, and technology vendors garnered a deep understanding of how the client experience impacts the bottom line and growth of an advisory firm. It also inspired a mission to see independent financial advisors serve more individuals in smarter ways – to both better reach and better address their evolving needs.

Diane joined The Humphreys Group In 1989, became a Principal In 1993, and has been President since 2005. During the last 25-plus years she has been extensively involved in all aspects of work with clients, tackling investment and financial planning issues. She is particularly passionate about helping women get smarter about money – and to see the ways in which they already have money competence. Diane strongly believe in a culture of continuous learning – whether that applies to investment strategies, new financial planning opportunities or strengthening our team. To that end, she ensures that we continually improve our clients’ experience, encourage innovation and spur growth. 

Laura has been in financial services over 25 years, serving clients in both wealth management and family office capacities. She is active in the advisory community collaborating with other professionals to identify and address the unique financial planning issues affecting women clients, as well as advocating for women advisors in the industry. Laura and her family reside in the Phoenix area, where she spends time outside the office volunteering for various charities through National Charity League.

Liz Gillette is a Founder and Senior Advisor at Curio Wealth, bringing 15 years of invaluable professional experience to the company. 

Liz’s first-hand experience with financial scarcity in childhood—and graduating college with over $100,000 in debt—led her to financial advising. With her resilient mindset, she turned the fear of debt collection calls, economic turmoil, and a sparse job market into life lessons and a fulfilling career. Melding personal experience with financial acumen, she advocates for disciplined consistency on the path to financial empowerment. Liz’s professional mantra emphasizes aligning spending with values, urging against judging others and fostering intentional financial choices. Striking a client-centric balance between future savings and present enjoyment, she guides individuals toward reaping the rewards of their hard work at ideal life stages.

In her current dual role, Liz seamlessly balances her responsibilities as a leader and an advisor, guiding individuals and dual-income couples in their 30s and 40s. Her clients – often navigating the complexities of work, life, and caregiving – benefit from her unique approach that ensures both partners have their voices heard and responsibilities shared.