Wealthing Podcast

Alicia Castillo Holley
  • 5.0 (4)
  • INVESTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Wealthing Podcast is a natural expansion of the work we do at the Wealthing Group. We want to bring exciting, new ideas, that reflect how we grow and create wealth for everyone, bringing technology, inspiration, capital, and progress. We share a highlight of an after-dinner conversation in a 15-20 min format. We see to bring a different, refreshing, no-nonsense podcast, that could be heard over a commute, a walk, or a break. https://wealthing.club

  1. 3D AGO

    From Musician to CEO: Sandra Velasquez on Building Nopalera

    In this episode, host Alicia Castillo Holley sits down with Sandra Velasquez, the founder and CEO of Nopalera, a high-end beauty brand inspired by the Nopal cactus. Sandra reflects on her non-linear path, starting with her 15-year career as a professional musician. When the music industry's economics shifted, Sandra didn't retreat. Instead, she channeled her creative energy into the beauty space, launching Nopalera in the middle of a pandemic. The conversation explores the intersection of culture and commerce. Sandra discusses the challenges of building a luxury Mexican brand and her refusal to settle for "budget" perceptions. Beyond the business, Sandra shares deeply personal advice on self-worth, explaining why her younger self needed to learn that "letting go" of certain things can be the ultimate superpower. For Sandra, "Wealthing" is the ability to use financial success to inspire others to reach their full potential and to reclaim their own cultural narratives.   About Sandra: Sandra Velasquez is the Chicana founder of Nopalera, a modern Mexican beauty & lifestyle brand. She launched Nopalera in the middle of the pandemic from her Brooklyn apartment with no outside funding or savings while working three jobs and raising her daughter. The brand can be found in Ulta USA online, Ulta Mexico, Ulta Middle East, MECCA, Credo, and over 400 boutiques nationwide. She is the winner of six pitch competitions and has completed six business accelerators including Morgan Stanley and Stanford LBAN. In January 2023 she appeared on Shark Tank Season 14 where she infamously turned down two offers by standing in her worth. Velasquez released her first book VIVA LATINA on Quarto Books in September 2024. In 2026 , she closed a $4 million Series A led by Morgan Stanley. Prior to launching Nopalera, she was the leader of Latin band Pistolera which toured internationally opening for artists such as Los Lobos and had her music featured on hit TV shows like Breaking Bad and the NPR Tiny Desk Concert. Connect with Sandra: linkedin.com/in/sandraliliavelasquez Nopalera: nopalera.co 🌐 Wealthing Club: wealthing.club

    27 min

  2. APR 15

    The Purpose Pivot: Scott Wharton on Finding the Intersection of Profit and Planet

    In this episode of the Wealthing Podcast, Alicia Castillo Holley talks with Scott Wharton, CEO of Tandem PV, about his journey through the evolving landscapes of technology. From his early roles in internet infrastructure and video conferencing to his current leadership in perovskite-based solar panels, Scott shares the lessons learned from decades of high-stakes entrepreneurship. The conversation dives deep into Scott's philosophy on career longevity and wealth creation. He argues that true wealth is built by continuously developing high-value skills, specifically pointing to the necessity of mastering AI in the modern job market. Scott also discusses the emotional side of leadership, sharing his belief that inaction is often the most dangerous choice a leader can make. The episode concludes with a reflection on legacy; for Scott, success is the intersection of solving global problems (like climate change) while maintaining a career that is both personally fulfilling and financially sustainable.   About Scott: Scott Wharton is the CEO of Tandem PV, where he is working to bring the next generation of solar technology to market using perovskite-silicon tandem panels that can deliver dramatically more power than traditional solar. Before Tandem PV, Scott spent nearly a decade at Logitech, where he scaled the video collaboration business from $62 million to over $1 billion in revenue, helping turn it into the global leader in video conferencing hardware. He later ran Logitech for Business, a ~$2 billion division serving enterprise customers worldwide. During that time, he led the development of innovative products that helped redefine video collaboration and were recognized with awards such as TIME Best Inventions and Fast Company's Next Big Thing in Tech. Earlier in his career, Scott founded Vidtel, a cloud video conferencing company that was acquired in 2013, and held leadership roles at BroadSoft (IPO; later acquired by Cisco) and VocalTec (IPO), where he was part of the early evolution of VoIP and cloud communications, including the development of the first commercial VoIP products and the emergence of the cloud PBX market. He holds an MBA from Yale University and has spent his career building and scaling category-defining technologies, from video communications to next-generation solar. About Tandem PV: Tandem PV is a Silicon Valley–based solar technology company developing next-generation panels that combine perovskite and silicon to significantly increase energy output. By enabling more power from the same footprint, the company aims to lower the cost of electricity and improve the economics of utility-scale solar deployment, while contributing to the resurgence of advanced solar manufacturing in the United States. Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwharton/ Tandem PV: www.tandempv.com 🌐 Wealthing Club: wealthing.club

    29 min

  3. APR 8

    Investing in the Overlooked: Lise Birikundavyi's Vision for Black Founders Ep. 58

    This week on the Wealthing Podcast, host Alicia Castillo Holley is joined by Lise Birikundavyi, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of BKR Capital, Canada's first institutional VC fund focused on Black founders. Lise shares her professional evolution from the hedge fund world to the forefront of impact investing, sparked by the inequities she witnessed in how capital is distributed globally. Lise provides a candid look at the systemic hurdles she observed in Kenya, where local founders often face "geographic bias," and explains how BKR Capital is solving similar issues in North America. She details the success of BKR's $22M CAD Fund I and the strategic expansion of their $50M CAD Fund II, which takes a sector-agnostic, early-stage approach with international reach. Lise also provides a deep dive into BKR's investment in Moneta Health, illustrating how Lise looks for companies that provide tangible societal value. The conversation concludes with a heartfelt reflection on legacy, as Lise discusses how her "essence" as a caretaker and mother drives her to leave the world better than she found it.   About Lise: Lise Birikundavyi is the co-founder and managing partner for BKR Capital, the first institutional, black-led VC fund in Canada. Lise is an innovative finance specialist who has worked with several international institutions and acts as guest lecturer for prestigious organization, including Oxford University and the International Olympic Committee Accelerator managed by the Yunus Sports Hub. Lise also mentors and supports highly promising and impactful start-ups in emerging markets. She began her career in the hedge fund industry in Montreal and her interest in mixing attractive financial returns with long term societal impact is what inspired her to transition to the impact finance sector, a space in which she worked for a decade. She has experience across the investment spectrum: from funds of funds and VCs, to being the transition CEO of a tech start-up. Lise is a CFA charterholder; she also holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from the Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance / Shanghai JiaoTong University, where she wrote her thesis on impact investing, and a trilingual BBA from HEC Montreal. Lise is fluent in French, English and Spanish, and has a conversational level of Mandarin. She is a firm believer in using the forces of capital markets as a basis for more inclusive wealth creation and sustainable poverty alleviation. Connect with Lise: linkedin.com/in/lisebiri/  BKR Capital: https://www.bkrcapital.ca  Lise on TechCrunch: https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/24/bkr-capital-raises-14-5m-so-far-to-invest-in-black-founders/ 🌐 Wealthing Club: wealthing.club

    26 min

  4. APR 1

    Scaling Cures: Cristina Stoyanov on the Future of Cell and Gene Therapy

    This week on the Wealthing Podcast, Alicia Castillo Holley talks with Cristina Stoyanov, a venture capitalist and scientist specializing in cell and gene therapy. Christina recounts her non-linear journey to the top of the biotech world, beginning with her move from Panama to the US in 1995. Originally intended as a short stay to study English, her path led to a PhD from Cornell and a deep immersion in the world of curative medicine. Christina outlines her current investment thesis, which focuses on the critical need for scalability in biotech. She explains why she prioritizes technologies that can bring life-changing cures to a global population, addressing the disparity of access between developed and developing nations. Additionally, Christina reflects on the advice she would give her younger self, specifically the power of patience in a fast-paced industry. The episode concludes with a look at her philosophy of wealthing, defined not by capital alone, but by the tangible impact of leaving the world better through scientific advancement.

    24 min

  5. MAR 25

    The Strategy of Inclusive Capital with Laura Moreno Lucas

    This week on the Wealthing Podcast, Alicia Castillo Holley sits down with Laura Moreno Lucas, former Managing Director at NASDAQ turned venture investor, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of inclusive capital. Laura shares her journey from her upbringing in Guadalajara to the heights of the financial sector, detailing the non-linear path that led her to launch two distinct funds: L'ATTITUDE Ventures and Libra Leaders. She discusses her specific investment philosophies, focusing on U.S. Latino-founded companies and early-stage women-led startups. A central theme of the discussion is the strategic advantage found at the intersection of AI and female leadership. Beyond the numbers, the conversation highlights the personal side of wealth creation. Laura reflects on the importance of role modeling, sharing how she mentors her daughter and the next generation of leaders. Inspired by her father's legacy, Laura offers a thoughtful perspective on what it means to be an impact investor today and how she hopes to be remembered. The episode offers a compelling look at how institutional experience and personal purpose can combine to reshape the venture capital ecosystem.   About Laura: Laura Moreno Lucas is a General Partner at L'ATTITUDE Ventures, the largest Latino-led early-stage venture capital fund dedicated to investing in the U.S. Latino economic cohort, with over $100 million in assets under management. Previously, Laura served as Managing Director of the Nasdaq Stock Exchange and was the founder of Pandocap, a strategic financial advisory firm, and Ladada, a fashion subscription company. She also mentors at accelerators such as Black Ambition and 500 Startups, and serves on the boards of multiple nonprofits. In her role at L'ATTITUDE Ventures, she focuses on transforming the investment landscape for Latino entrepreneurs. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, she immigrated to the U.S. at the age of seven and understands the challenges Latino founders face in scaling their startups, achieving product-market fit, and accessing capital markets. She recently launched a women's initiative called Libra Leaders, an effort aimed at tipping the scales of capital toward women. Centered around a network of visible leaders, the initiative promotes women's entrepreneurship to expand wealth creation and inspire a new generation of female business leaders. Connect with Laura: linkedin.com/in/lauraemoreno L'ATTITUDE Ventures: lattitudeventures.com Libra Leaders: libraleaders.com 🌐 Wealthing Club: wealthing.club

    29 min

  6. MAR 18

    Investing in the Quantum Future with Avanthi Shah

    This week on the Wealthing Podcast, Alicia Castillo Holley is joined by Avanthi Shah, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist, technology architect, and founder of NextVerse Ventures, for a wide-ranging conversation on emerging tech and the evolution of self. Avanthi shares her professional trajectory, starting with her early experiences in programming during the 1990s and her transition into the high-stakes world of technology architecture. She discusses the mission of her new fund, NextVerse Ventures, which focuses on the transformative potential of Quantum Computing and AI in fields like cybersecurity and materials science. The discussion also touches on her commitment to social impact through her work with the microfinance organization FINCA. Beyond the technical, Avanthi offers a grounded look at the personal lessons that have defined her journey. She reflects on the advice she would give her 20-year-old self, specifically the necessity of setting boundaries and overcoming the impulse to people-please in professional environments. The interview concludes with a philosophical reflection on legacy, with Avanthi defining her essence through authenticity and the lasting value she aims to leave in the hearts of those she works with.

    36 min

  7. MAR 11

    From the Mountains to the Boardroom: A Conversation with Paul Essery

    This week on the Wealthing Podcast, Alicia Castillo Holley is joined by Paul Essery, a mountaineer, entrepreneur, and podcast host, for a compelling discussion on the intersection of adventure and business strategy. Paul shares how his background in elite mountaineering provided a foundational framework for his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the critical roles of risk assessment, decision-making, and purposeful goal-setting. He reflects openly on his career trajectory, discussing the lessons learned about focusing on the "right" problems and the value of starting a venture sooner rather than later. The conversation also provides an analysis of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the UK, highlighting the need for increased support for builders and founders. Together, Alicia and Paul explore the mechanics of "learning by doing" and the vital role of reflection in avoiding burnout. They touch on the complexities of the venture capital landscape and the necessity for founders to be protective of their time and energy. Grounded in the grit of high-stakes climbing, the episode offers a roadmap for navigating the unpredictable terrain of the startup world.

    42 min

  8. MAR 4

    Authenticity and the Art of Localization with Fabiano Cid

    This week on the Wealthing Podcast, host Alicia Castillo Holley is joined by Fabiano Cid, Chief Solutions Officer of Powerling, for a wide-ranging conversation on resilience, career evolution, and the global language services industry. Fabiano shares his unique trajectory, moving from early interests in acting and diplomacy to the founding of a successful localization firm. He reflects on his personal growth, including the experience of navigating his identity as a gay man and how that shaped his perspective on inclusivity and resilience. Fabiano highlights the strategic growth and eventual sale of Powerling, crediting his time living in London as a defining period that sharpened his focus and adaptability. Together, Alicia and Fabiano explore the intersection of artistic sensibility and business acumen, particularly in the context of adapting content for diverse global markets. The conversation concludes with a philosophical discussion on legacy, where Fabiano emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact and his hope for a world defined by more love and understanding.   About Fabiano: Fabiano Cid is Chief Solutions Officer at Powerling, where he seamlessly connects strategy with execution to enhance brand reach worldwide. With close to 30 years of experience, he has successfully led high-performing teams across three continents. He was the founder of Ccaps Translation and Localization, one of Latin America's most respected providers before merging with OXO Innovation in 2018. He also serves on the advisory board of Women in Localization, actively promoting equity, mentorship, and greater representation. Fabiano was recently named Global Content Wrangler and is the creator and host of SOFA, a series featuring candid conversations with thought leaders.   About Powerling: Powerling is the end-to-end solution to empower your content globally. The company orchestrates people, innovation and processes to help global organizations create, adapt, and scale content with consistency and impact.   Connect with Fabiano: linkedin.com/in/fabianocid 🌐 Wealthing Club: wealthing.club

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Wealthing Podcast is a natural expansion of the work we do at the Wealthing Group. We want to bring exciting, new ideas, that reflect how we grow and create wealth for everyone, bringing technology, inspiration, capital, and progress. We share a highlight of an after-dinner conversation in a 15-20 min format. We see to bring a different, refreshing, no-nonsense podcast, that could be heard over a commute, a walk, or a break. https://wealthing.club

Information

  • Creator
    Alicia Castillo Holley
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Wealthing Podcast