Dial Up Empathy to Compassion: Serving Modern Widows with Advisor Megan Kopka

Kick it Open - The Muriel Network Podcast

Everyone can benefit from this important episode on widowhood and how the wealth management industry can rise to better serve the financial planning needs of today's modern widows. BTW - the average age of widowhood is just 59 and 80% of women aged 80+ are widows. If you're a woman, a woman advisor, an advisor serving women or just have women in your life, this episode is an important one.
This episode features Kick It Open podcast host Shelby Nicholl and special guest Megan Kopka, CFP, RLP.
The episode unfolds into a heartfelt exploration of Megan's own experience of early widowhood, shedding light on the identity crisis and financial implications that follow such a devastating event. With the average age of widowhood at 59, we discuss not only the personal impact but also the broader economic strain felt during what should be peak earning years. Our dialogue underscores the necessity of supportive networks and communities like the Modern Widows Club, which offers resources and peer advice to those experiencing loss. We share stories of growth and resilience, and the strength found in the solidarity of those who have walked a similar path.
Resources mentioned during the episode:

· Kathi Balasek trains financial professionals in grief literacy and empathy. Learn more about Kathi, access course and more at: Grief Literacy and Communication Education for Financial Professionals (kathibalasek.com)

· Modern Widows Club is a national organization with local chapters all over the country. Sign up for their newsletter and learn more about the organization at: Home - Modern Widows Club.

· Wings for Widows – Provides coaching and financial education services especially for men and women who are widows. Learn more at: Financial Planning For Widows | Wings for Widows

· Savvy Ladies provides financial education to women. Learn more at: Free Financial Education & Advice | Free Financial Advisors (savvyladies.org)
About this podcast:

If you're a woman in wealth management (or any male-dominated industry), this podcast is for you.

Muriel Siebert (first woman member of the NYSE ) said, "When a door is hard to open and nothing else works, sometimes you just have to rear back and kick it open.” After decades of sluggish progress, it’s time for us to kick the door open on women’s success.

Recorded and produced by Muriel Network.
Graphic Design by John Gallagher.
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/let-good-times-roll License code: EV5ON7Y3CSESDSEU
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Chapters

1. Empowering Women in Wealth Management (00:00:00)

2. Support for Young Widows (00:03:41)

3. Navigating Widowhood and Financial Planning (00:11:48)

4. Navigating Personal Finance After Widowhood (00:26:32)

5. Empowering Widows Through Community Support (00:37:13)