Yeah, sis, you actually can start investing

We have talked pretty candidly about money and finances here on The Reclaimed. I have talked about  different ways to think about money, save money, spend money, and when you need a treat, the occasional best ways to waste a little bit of money (treat yo'self.)

But one thing we have not talked about much? Investing.

When I typically think of investing, I think of old white men in expensive suits sitting at a mahogany desk in some skyscraper in New York glaring down at my pitiful amount of money and sneering in judgment.

Or a room full of white men screaming (at phones and at each other) below a cluster of dangling monitors as papers fly across the room.

Not exactly a place I, a Black Woman, want to put my hard earned cash.

Ellevest* wants to change that.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with the team over at Ellevest, an investment advisor with the goal of democratizing investing for women and people of color. That short convo really put in perspective that getting started with investing doesn't have to be complicated, (even if you are not super wealthy, male, or white).

How Ellevest works:

• Tell Ellevest about yourself and your life goals in 5 short steps. (It's like MadLibs for your money.)
• Ellevest then suggests personalized investment portfolios for each of your goals.
• Ellevest is a fiduciary, which means they put their client's best interests first, always.

In 10 minutes or less, you can create a customized investment portfolio for each of your goals,  and you can do it from your phone, tablet or computer.

Guys, real talk; you don't have to start with a huge amount of money. Try starting at $50. Easily doable. Easily repeatable, and that money is going straight from my thrift store and coffee battered account to accumulate out of sight, out of mind, off to go built wealth. There are no minimums to start and the accounts are free.

Another reason to like Ellevest? They are actually committed to equality. According to Ellevest, "86% of Investment Advisors Are Men, With an Average Age of 50+. So the "gender-neutral" investment industry defaults to men’s salaries, career paths, preferences, and lifespans." Ellevest specializes in money growth strategies that address the realities of being a woman. Something to keep in mind, as you consider where to place your hard earned dimes.

Head to Ellevest to get signed up and start making strides to your own financial dreams.

I am excited to be working with Ellevest to start this conversation about women and money. I may receive compensation if you become an Ellevest client.*