About the episode:
It’s been one year of A Woman’s Clarity and while there have been many esteemed guests sharing their expertise, we thought the best way to celebrate this milestone was to go back to the beginning. In the first episode of A Woman’s Clarity, host Kirsten Schlumbohm, VP of Annuity Sales at C2P, explores the inspiring careers of two remarkable women in the financial services industry: Mary Sterk, CFP® CPFA, CEO and owner of Sterk Financial Services, and Karin Alvarado, CFS, CPFA, Managing Partner at New Aspect Financial Services.
Seasoned financial consultant, Mary Sterk, and innovative investment banker, Karin Alvarado, share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs. In this candid conversation, we focus on mentorship, the evolving landscape of financial services for women, and the keys to success in this dynamic field.
Key Topics Covered:
Discover how mentorship and determination can unlock doors to a satisfying career in financial services and be inspired to embrace a unique path in this ever-evolving field. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from two extraordinary women who are making a significant impact on the world of finance.
About the guests:
Mary Sterk, CFP® CPFA, CEO, owner, and founder of Sterk Financial Services, a thriving firm with its headquarters in South Dakota, and a second location in Kansas City. Mary’s inspiring journey is a testament to her determination, transcending from a life on welfare to becoming a successful woman in the realm of wealth management. She faced formidable odds, grappling with the challenges of teenage pregnancy, living in low-income housing, and being a single mother of two while relying on food stamps to get by. In recognition of her expertise, Mary has earned a coveted spot on Forbes’ prestigious lists for six consecutive years, with most recently the 2023 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors and the 2023 Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State rankings. Notably, she holds the top position in South Dakota on these lists.
Over her 28-year career as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, Mary has not only gained exceptional experience but also penned two insightful books, including, Ready To Pull The Retirement Trigger? Her commitment to financial education extends to her radio show and podcast, “Money Guide With Mary Sterk,” where she empowers and enlightens listeners, steering them toward crafting their ideal financial futures.
Karin Alvarado, CFS, CPFA, serves as the Managing Partner at New Aspect Financial Services in Napa, CA. With over 17 years of experience in the financial industry, Karin specializes in retirement planning for organizations and individuals. Her unique process not only guides clients towards retirement but ensures they enjoy this life stage. For her approach, Karin has been recognized as a retirement plan authority in the Bay Area.
Karin’s career began at John Hancock Life Insurance Company in Boston in the retirement division. Later, as a Relationship Manager at ING Financial Advisors, she advised on over 200 retirement plans, representing assets exceeding $350 million. Karin is known for her dedication to high-level client service, full-fee transparency, and empowering clients with financial education.
Her qualifications include studies in international business in France and Mexico, a suite of licenses (6, 7, 63, and 65) complemented by her Certified Fund Specialist designation, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from the University of Texas at Austin.