From Wall Street to Boardrooms: The Power of Curiosity and Genuine Networking Revealed
Fri Feb 06 2026
Welcome to another episode of Real Talk - Mental Fitness! Today, we’re diving into the power of connection, curiosity, and the often-overlooked art of networking with our extraordinary guest, Shelly Lombard.
From her high-stakes career on Wall Street and her unique experiences as a Black woman in finance, to the launch of Schmooze Biz—a vibrant networking space uplifting professionals into board opportunities—Shelly Lombard shares her journey and the lessons she wishes she’d known earlier.
Shelly shares honestly about her time on Wall Street, including what she wished she’d known sooner: relationships matter more than just a stellar work ethic. Despite a successful career in distressed investing (aka “vulture investing”), Shelly opens up about missing the intentional networking piece. She reminds us it’s not just about “doing the work”–it’s also about connecting, following up, and being seen.
This episode explores how intentional relationships, energy management, and challenging labels like “introvert” can open doors and transform careers.
Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, eyeing your first board seat, or just looking to build stronger professional connections, this conversation is packed with insights, real talk, and aha moments. Plus, you’ll get practical advice on nurturing your network, handling the energy drain, and showing up authentically—even when circumstances feel challenging.
Get ready for stories, strategies, and some memorable quotes—like why it’s okay to “take five minutes to feel sorry for yourself, then get back to being a gangster.” Tune in and tap into the wisdom that will help you fuel your own mental fitness and professional growth!
Your Invitation:Want to experience more of Shelly’s wisdom? Subscribe to her newsletter and check out Schmooze Biz, her networking platform designed to help others avoid the mistakes she made and build lasting, impactful relationships.
More
Welcome to another episode of Real Talk - Mental Fitness! Today, we’re diving into the power of connection, curiosity, and the often-overlooked art of networking with our extraordinary guest, Shelly Lombard. From her high-stakes career on Wall Street and her unique experiences as a Black woman in finance, to the launch of Schmooze Biz—a vibrant networking space uplifting professionals into board opportunities—Shelly Lombard shares her journey and the lessons she wishes she’d known earlier. Shelly shares honestly about her time on Wall Street, including what she wished she’d known sooner: relationships matter more than just a stellar work ethic. Despite a successful career in distressed investing (aka “vulture investing”), Shelly opens up about missing the intentional networking piece. She reminds us it’s not just about “doing the work”–it’s also about connecting, following up, and being seen. This episode explores how intentional relationships, energy management, and challenging labels like “introvert” can open doors and transform careers. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, eyeing your first board seat, or just looking to build stronger professional connections, this conversation is packed with insights, real talk, and aha moments. Plus, you’ll get practical advice on nurturing your network, handling the energy drain, and showing up authentically—even when circumstances feel challenging. Get ready for stories, strategies, and some memorable quotes—like why it’s okay to “take five minutes to feel sorry for yourself, then get back to being a gangster.” Tune in and tap into the wisdom that will help you fuel your own mental fitness and professional growth! Your Invitation:Want to experience more of Shelly’s wisdom? Subscribe to her newsletter and check out Schmooze Biz, her networking platform designed to help others avoid the mistakes she made and build lasting, impactful relationships.