Top 4 Takeaways from Women in Consumer Finance 2024

When hundreds of brilliant women from across financial services gather, it's hard to leave without new insights and inspiration. Here are some highlights from the incredible women who shared their stories and experiences during our time in Fort Worth.

1. “Write your story before someone else does.”

When you let others dictate your path, you risk losing yourself. For years, Kelly Decker (Beyond Finance) chased fulfillment from job to job and city to city. Nothing filled the void she felt within herself. It wasn’t until she paused to reflect that she was able to reclaim her story.

“I had to create my own definition of success. Now decision making is easier, life is way less stressful, and I show up better in everything I do.” Her story challenges us all to take control of our narrative and build a life that reflects who we are.

2. "You’ll never know what will come from an ending unless you’re brave enough to start a new beginning.”

Roni Teson (TeleperformanceARM) shared a story shaped by loss, uncertainty, and challenges that felt insurmountable. Yet each ending in her life became a catalyst for transformation. Her story reminds us that change is inevitable, and endings, while painful, often create space for something greater. 

3. “Money is not your goal, it’s your tool.”

During our financial planning workshop, Marla Sofer (Knomee) encouraged participants to get specific and define what they want their futures to look like. As Marla sees it, too many of us use retirement as a catch-all term to sum up the efforts of our savings without understanding the why or how behind it.

Instead of blindly stashing cash away, she encourages you to get familiar with your future self and the life you want for her. After that, you can work backwards and figure out how to use your money to get you there.

4. Don’t wish you would have.

This phrase, shared by Carri McQuerrey-Funk (DLL) during her unforgettable closing keynote, is a guiding principle for her life. Carri urged us to make decisions today that our future selves will thank us for. Don’t wish you would have asked for a promotion, taken more time for family, or prioritized your health. Take action while you have the chance. 

Carri’s message is deeply personal and born out of the tragic loss of her daughter, Madison. Carri now leads a non-profit in her honor. Learn more or donate here. 

The stories and lessons shared at this year's conference encourage us to take control, embrace change, and act with intention. They capture what this event and community are all about—empowering women to define their own paths and take bold steps towards their futures. 

Registration for WCF 2025 is now open! This time, we're headed to Charlotte, North Carolina from November 10 to 12. Make sure to grab your ticket early to get the best price!