Female VC Lab

Step into the world of impact investing with this captivating episode of Female VC Lab! Host Barbara Bickham sits down with Najada Kumbuli, Vice President and Head of Investments at the Visa Foundation, for an illuminating conversation on reshaping capitalism for the greater good. Discover how Najada’s journey from communist Albania to leading global VC strategies at Visa Foundation fuels her passion for social responsibility, small business empowerment, and inclusive innovation. Find out what’s next in venture capital, why AI and emerging markets are top of mind, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Visa Foundation backs entrepreneurs while driving lasting social impact. Whether you’re an investor, founder, or changemaker, you’ll leave inspired and equipped with actionable insights on building a more equitable future. Guest Information Guest Name: Najada Kumbuli Bio: Najada Kumbuli is the Vice President and Head of Investments at the Visa Foundation, where she champions impact investing and ecosystem growth for small businesses and entrepreneurs worldwide. Leveraging her unique upbringing in Albania and global expertise, Najada leads a holistic investment strategy with a focus on inclusion, sustainable growth, and measurable social impact. Links: * Visa Foundation Website: https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html [https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html] * LinkedIn: Najada Kumbuli LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/najada-kumbuli/] Episode Outline Origins & Inspiration for Impact Investing Najada shares her powerful personal journey from communist Albania to global investing, revealing what motivated her to pursue impact investing and advocate for “conscious capitalism.” * Learn more about impact investing from the Visa Foundation [https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html] Visa Foundation’s Investment Thesis & Global Strategy A deep dive into how the Visa Foundation’s thesis centers on championing small businesses with access to capital, digital tools, and financial skills—spanning micro-entrepreneurs in Nigeria to high-growth startups in India. * Visa Foundation Annual Report: See their latest impact and portfolio highlights [https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html] Trends Shaping the Future of Venture Capital Najada gives her perspective on what’s ahead for VC: the expanding role of AI and deep tech, greater discipline in investing, increased attention to emerging markets like Africa and Latin America, and the rise of responsible, impact-driven investments. * Acquired Podcast – a favorite resource mentioned by Najada [https://www.acquired.fm/] Resources for Founders & Fund Managers Discover how to get connected with the Visa Foundation, access reports, and tap into support and tools for scaling your impact-driven business. * Contact Visa Foundation or access their resources [https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html] Further Reading & Resources: * Visa Foundation Impact Report: Read here [https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html] * Book: “Conscious Capitalism” by John Mackey & Raj Sisodia * Acquired Podcast [https://www.acquired.fm/] Host & Show Info Host Name: Barbara Bickham About the Host: Barbara Bickham is a veteran technologist, investor, and founder committed to amplifying women’s voices in venture capital. She brings her expertise in innovation, investing, and entrepreneurship to every episode of Female VC Lab. Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com [https://femalevclab.com/] Community & Calls to Action Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Support the show by leaving a review! [Apple Podcasts Link] Contact the show: femalevclab@trailyn.com Follow us on social media: X (formerly Twitter): @femalevclab [https://twitter.com/femalevclab] Instagram: @femalevclab [https://www.instagram.com/femalevclab] Join the conversation: Comment on LinkedIn, X, or share your key takeaways using #FemaleVCLab. Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

What does it take to be a globally minded investor in today's ever-evolving landscape? In this unmissable episode, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Erika Aquino—angel investor, strategic advisor, and head of m Squad—to dive deep into investing with purpose and heart. Erika shares her dynamic journey from boardroom legacy in The Philippines to championing women and minority-led startups worldwide. You’ll hear her sharp insights on the explosive impact of AI, why founder EQ is a make-or-break factor, and how global crises (from disaster-prone regions to food supply) are reframing what impactful investing truly means. Whether you’re an aspiring investor, a founder, or a changemaker, this conversation offers real talk on values-driven investment and the future of angel funding. Guest Information Guest Name: Erika Aquino Bio: Erika Aquino is an angel investor, strategic adviser, and the head of m Squad, a Singapore-based investment group with a global focus. Raised and based in The Philippines, Erika is dedicated to supporting women and minority founders in fields like sustainability, wellness, future of work, and education. Her investment style centers on community impact, founder chemistry, and leveraging technology for good. Links: * Website: https://erika-aquino.com [https://erika-aquino.com] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-aquino [https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-aquino] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamerikaaquino/ [https://www.instagram.com/iamerikaaquino/] Episode Outline Erika Aquino’s Journey to Investing Discover Erika’s transition from supporting her father’s tech company in The Philippines to forging her own path as a global angel investor, with a focus on legacy, impact, and growth in community-driven ventures. Thesis-Driven Investing with Heart Erika lays out her investment criteria: backing women and minority founders in critical sectors (sustainability, wellness, the future of work, education, and adjacent areas). She shares how her upbringing in The Philippines shaped her commitment to impactful, values-driven investments. AI, Founder EQ, and the Future of Venture A fast-paced look at how AI is turbocharging diligence, research, and even daily routines—plus why human intelligence and emotional intelligence remain irreplaceable in venture. Erika and Barbara debate the evolving human/AI dynamic and discuss the critical importance of founder mindset and community engagement in tomorrow’s ecosystem. Transcript For a full transcript of this episode, visit: https://femalevclab.com Host & Show Info Host Name: Barbara Bickham About the Host: Barbara Bickham is an accomplished technologist, investor, and mentor dedicated to amplifying the voices and impact of female venture leaders around the globe. Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com [https://femalevclab.com] Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and keep bringing you the most inspiring stories.  Follow us on social media: * Instagram: @femalevclab * LinkedIn: Female VC Lab * X (formerly Twitter): @femalevclab Join the conversation: Comment on LinkedIn, DM us your thoughts on Instagram, or share your favorite moments using #FemaleVCLab. Share this episode with a friend—tag us on social and let us know your #1 takeaway!

Unlocking Lifetime Financial Security & The Future of Wealth | E113 feat. Cheryl L. Evans, JD (Milken Institute) What does it really take to achieve lifelong financial security in a changing world? In this episode, Barbara Bickham sits down with Cheryl L. Evans, JD—Director of the Lifetime Financial Security (LFS) Program at the Milken Institute—to discuss the evolving landscape of retirement, the impact of generational wealth transfer, and why women need to be at the forefront of financial planning. Whether you’re navigating the start of your financial journey or contemplating legacy and longevity, this thought-provoking conversation is packed with actionable insights, future-forward trends, and inspiring perspectives for investors, innovators, and anyone interested in the intersection of finance and social impact. Key takeaways include: * The realities behind “peak 65” and the massive shift as Boomers retire * How Gen Z and Millennials can tackle the unique financial headwinds they face * Why personalized retirement strategies matter more than ever * The pivotal role of guaranteed income products and the reinvention of pensions * The great wealth transfer—what it means for women, venture capital, and entrepreneurship Don’t miss this deep dive into how financial security impacts individuals, families, and the future of investment. Guest Information Guest Name: Cheryl L. Evans, JD Bio: Cheryl L. Evans is the Director of the Lifetime Financial Security Program at the Milken Institute. With a background as a securities lawyer (formerly at the SEC) and training in life coaching, Cheryl brings a unique perspective to wealth building, retirement planning, and financial empowerment across generations. Email: cevans@milkeninstitute.org LinkedIn: Cheryl Evans LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanscheryllesq/] Episode Outline 1. The Evolution of Retirement & Longevity Explore how demographic shifts (like “peak 65” as Boomers hit retirement age) are reshaping policies, products, and individual decisions around lifetime financial security. Link: Milken Institute LFS Program [https://milkeninstitute.org/finance/lifetime-financial-security] 2. Meeting Millennial and Gen Z Financial Challenges Dive into current research and expert panel insights on wealth-building challenges faced by younger generations—from student debt to home-buying hurdles—and strategies for future financial success. 3. Women, Wealth Transfer & Financial Confidence Learn about the upcoming great wealth transfer to women, the specific challenges and opportunities this presents, and why empowering women with financial literacy and leadership is more vital than ever. Resources: * Lifetime Financial Security Report: https://milkeninstitute.org/report/shifting-retirement-paradigm-financial-security [https://milkeninstitute.org/report/shifting-retirement-paradigm-financial-security] * Enhancing Retirement: Advancing Lifetime Income for All https://milkeninstitute.org/content-hub/research-and-reports/reports/enhancing-retirement-advancing-lifetime-income-all [https://milkeninstitute.org/content-hub/research-and-reports/reports/enhancing-retirement-advancing-lifetime-income-all] * Our Afternoon with Gloria Steinem https://milkeninstitute.org/article/our-afternoon-gloria-steinem [https://milkeninstitute.org/article/our-afternoon-gloria-steinem] * Addressing the Financial Headwinds Faced by Gen Z and Millennials https://vimeo.com/1076695634 [https://vimeo.com/1076695634] * Ellevest (Women-focused wealth management) * Gloria Steinem’s “Talking Circles” on women’s financial confidence * Joia Louie Dreyfus’ “Wiser Than Me” podcast * “Let Them” by Mel Robbins (book) Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and spotlight more incredible women in VC! Rate & Review here [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/female-vc-lab/id1531544873] Contact the show: femalevclab@trailyn.com Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.femalevclab.com/ [https://www.femalevclab.com/] Follow us on social: X (formerly Twitter): @femalevclab [https://twitter.com/femalevclab] Instagram: @femalevclab [https://instagram.com/femalevclab] Bluesky: @femalevclab [https://twitter.com/femalevclab]

In this powerful episode of Female VC Lab, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Mary King, vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, to uncover how venture capital is accelerating the global clean energy transition. If you’re curious about the future of climate tech, energy innovation, and how investors are driving decarbonization, this episode is for you! Mary pulls back the curtain on Aligned Climate Fund’s investment thesis: investing in companies taking real action to decarbonize our infrastructure—including clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. You’ll hear insider stories about backing geothermal breakthroughs, innovative microgrid solutions, and the growing impact of point source carbon capture. Mary and Barbara also dive deep on challenges in climate tech VC, how AI could transform investment diligence, and why distributed energy and resilience are game changers for communities around the world. Whether you’re in the climate space, an entrepreneur, or just passionate about shaping a sustainable future, you’ll walk away with fresh insights and inspiration for what’s next in climate innovation and venture capital. Guest Information Guest Name: Mary King Bio: Mary King is vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, the venture strategy for Aligned Climate Capital. She invests in early-stage companies driving decarbonization across clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. Links: * Mary King’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryeking/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryeking/] * Aligned Climate Capital: https://alignedclimatecapital.com/ [https://alignedclimatecapital.com/] Episode Outline Aligned Climate Fund’s Investment Thesis Mary explains how Aligned invests in seed to Series B companies with proven climate solutions, focusing on clean energy, resilient infrastructure, and decarbonization. More about Aligned Climate Capital [https://alignedclimatecapital.com/] The Role of Emerging Technologies: Geothermal, Microgrids & Carbon Capture A look at how Aligned approaches geothermal and microgrid investments, plus insights on distributed energy and point source carbon capture for scalable climate action. Resource: What is Geothermal Energy? [https://www.energy.gov/eere/geothermal/geothermal-basics] Resource: Distributed Energy Resources [https://www.energy.gov/oe/activities/technology-development/grid-modernization-and-smart-grid/distributed-energy-resources] The Future of Climate Tech and VC: AI, Diligence, and Industry Shifts Mary predicts how AI will soon revolutionize VC deal flow and diligence, enabling faster, smarter investment decisions—and what this means specifically for the climate sector. Resource: AI in Venture Capital [https://hbr.org/2023/06/how-ai-is-changing-venture-capital] Transcript For a full transcript of this episode, visit: https://femalevclab.com [http://femalevclab.com] About the Host: Barbara Bickham is a venture investor, technologist, and founder of Female VC Lab. She champions women in venture and spotlights game-changing leaders investing for a better future. Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com [https://femalevclab.com] Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. Review us here! [https://podcasts.apple.com/] Contact the show: femalevclab@trailyn.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @femalevclab X (formerly Twitter): @femalevclab Join the conversation: Comment on X, send us a message, or share your favorite takeaway using #FemaleVCLab. Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

Episode Summary: Dive into the intriguing world of venture capital with our latest episode featuring Katelin Holloway, a founding partner at Seven Seven Six. Discover what motivated Katelin to transition from an executive operator to a venture capitalist and how her deep empathy for founders guides her investment decisions. In this episode, you'll gain insights into Seven Seven Six's unique thesis-agnostic approach and explore the dynamic shifts in the venture capital landscape. Whether you're curious about space tech, women's health tech, or AI's impact on the future of VC, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that will keep you engaged from start to finish. Guest Information: Guest Name: Katelin Holloway Bio: Katelin Holloway is a founding partner at Seven Seven Six, a venture capital firm driven by her extensive experience as an operator and executive. With a passion for supporting founders and a focus on innovative sectors, Katelin brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the investment landscape. Links: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelinholloway], X - formerly Twitter [https://x.com/katelin_cruse] Episode Outline: 1. Transition to Venture Capital Katelin discusses her journey from being an executive to a venture capitalist, fueled by her desire to scale her impact by supporting multiple companies as an investor. 2. Thesis-Agnostic Investment Strategy Explore how Seven Seven Six’s thesis-agnostic approach allows them to invest in diverse sectors, focusing on the best founders and innovative ideas. 3. The Future of Venture Capital and AI Discover how AI is reshaping the venture capital ecosystem and Katelin’s insights on leveraging AI to create impactful investments and operational efficiencies. Community & Calls to Action: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Your feedback helps us shine! Rate Here [https://app.castmagic.io/recordings/1b9c9f86-2070-4e70-872d-7250c4ce88a0?tab=ai_content#] Follow us on social media for the latest updates: * X (formerly Twitter): @FemaleVCLab [https://app.castmagic.io/recordings/1b9c9f86-2070-4e70-872d-7250c4ce88a0?tab=ai_content#] Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this episode using the hashtag #FemaleVCLab. Share it with a friend, and let us know your favorite takeaway!