How does one start a career in investment strategy? For that matter, what IS an investment strategist? In this special episode, host Liz Thomas gets on the other side of the mic in conversation with Brian Walsh, a.k.a. “Dr. Money,” Head of Advice and Planning at SoFi. Brian and Liz discuss her career evolution, from early career pivots, to what she does as an investment strategist, to how to communicate ideas in finance effectively.  Liz Thomas is the Head of Investment Strategy at SoFi. Prior to SoFi, Liz was the Director of Market Strategy at BNY Mellon Investment Management. As an analyst, she worked at both BMO Global Asset Management as well as Baird. Liz earned her BBA in Finance and Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and her MBA from Marquette University. For more, read Liz’s column every Thursday at On The Money by SoFi, sign up for the On The Money newsletter, and follow Liz @LizThomasStrat. Notable mentions in the episode: 00:00 Introduction 02:10 Growing up in Wisconsin 03:32 Money lessons and values 06:10 Finding finance in college 07:42 Early career 10:27 Pivotal career moments 19:10 What is an investment strategist? 24:31 Career advice 28:07 Career at SoFi 31:55 Experience as a female in a male-dominated industry 35:18 Liz’s financial information diet 40:50 Keeping a level head through market volatility 44:28 Investment role models 48:01 Communicating ideas in finance 51:44 Closing Thoughts Additional resources: On The Money: Sign up for SoFi's newsletter for intel, insights, and inspo to help you get your money right. Investing 101 Center: At SoFi, we believe investing is for everyone — which is why we’ve created a hub with info for beginners and experts alike. Start exploring to get investment education, advice, resources, and more. Wealth Investing Guide: Information you need to know to make your money work harder for you. This podcast should be used for informational purposes only and not deemed as a recommendation. Our Automated investing is via SoFi Wealth LLC, and is a registered investment advisor. Our Active investing is via SoFi securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest® platforms, please visit www. SoFi.com/Legal. ©2025 Social Finance, Inc. All Rights Reserved.