Lenka Karadzovova

Why do women still hesitate unnecessarily when it comes to investing? How essential is capital autonomy—and why is a well-thought-out investment strategy the best foundation for personal freedom and self-confidence?

Lenka Karadžovová has been moving in the world of capital and investment for over thirty years—from corporate banking to leading teams managing multi-billion portfolios. Today, she combines her high-finance know-how with an individual approach, helping women build financial independence, a healthy relationship with risk, and long-term capital appreciation.

What was your path to finance and investing? What drew you to this field?

I arrived at finance gradually—it wasn’t a childhood dream. Rather, I’ve always enjoyed looking for connections, having clarity in things, and being independent. In banking, I went through a number of roles, led teams, and eventually managed a portfolio worth several billion crowns. But more than numbers, I’ve always been interested in the actual person behind them—their story, motivations, and fears. I started investing quite early myself. It wasn't just about returns, but about a sense of security and freedom. Gradually, I realized that these experiences could also benefit other women who want to have their money under control and, at the same time, have more options in life.

Do you remember when you realized you wanted to pass your knowledge on—specifically to women?

Yes, there were several moments, but one stuck with me deeply. My mother was seriously ill, and I left a very well-paid job at the time so I could spend the last year of her life with her. Thanks to my investments, I had a reserve and could choose to do that. I realized how important it is to have the option to choose—and how much I wanted other women to have that option too. Without fear, without dependence, but with confidence in their own decisions. Then came a moment with a client—a smart and capable woman who told me during a consultation, "I feel like I'm still just treading water." And I said to myself—I want to change this.

How did you perceive the self-confidence of the women around you when you started your own investment academy?

I perceived a lot of contradictions. On one hand, women who manage family, work, and life's twists and turns, and on the other, a feeling that they "don't have a head for finance" or that "it's too complicated." Yet often, all it takes is a safe space and someone to help you get started. Then miracles happen—women suddenly start believing in themselves, start asking questions, experimenting, and making decisions. And they are great at it.

What topics are discussed most often at your investment academy? What interests or surprises women the most?

They mainly ask what to do specifically—how to start, what to avoid, how to set everything up simply and effectively. But we often get to deeper questions—what money means to me, why I want to invest, what gives me a sense of security. Many women are surprised that they don't need an economics degree to make good decisions. You just need to know what to ask, have basic orientation, and inner peace. And that can be learned.

Who is the academy for—is it suitable for absolute beginners who are just starting with investments?

In the past, I led workshops under the name Investment Academy for Women, but I am moving them further—they are now called the Women & Wealth Masterclass Series. They are intended not only for absolute beginners but also for women who have already started investing and want to expand their knowledge or gain more confidence. I want to create an environment where women can ask questions, share, and grow—regardless of what stage they are at. Each of us has the right to understand our finances and make decisions about them with confidence.

When are you planning your next course or program? And how can women get involved?

I am planning the next program from September 2025, mainly in Prague for now, but I am also preparing an online version. I post all information on my website and social media. Whoever contacts me will receive a tailored recommendation. I know that the first step is sometimes the hardest—but that is exactly what can start a new chapter. And I would be happy to be your guide.

Why do you think women often underestimate the importance of financial education and investing?

I think it’s related to the fact that there isn’t enough talk about money. We don’t learn it in schools and often not even in our families. Many of us heard that finance is difficult, that men handle it, that we should mainly be thrifty. That settles in us deeper than we realize. And so, even very intelligent women say they "don't have a head for it." Yet, in reality, they do. They just lacked the opportunity and support. And that is exactly what I am trying to create—so that women understand that money is not a taboo and that they are not alone in it.

According to your experience, how does financial independence connect with a woman's healthy self-confidence?

Financial independence is a huge inner pillar. It gives a woman peace of mind, the ability to decide freely, not to be dependent on partners, employment, or circumstances. When you know you have a plan, a reserve, and a direction—you breathe differently. You gain self-confidence, and that isn't a pose—it's inner peace and the trust that you can handle things. And that is exactly what I want to help women build.

What is the most common fear or block that holds women back in managing money or investing?

The fear of making a mistake. Of losing everything. And also the shame—that they "should have known better" already. Women often tell me they are afraid of being considered stupid. But it is not stupid not to know—it is stupid not to ask. That is why I emphasize an atmosphere of safety and support. When women feel they don't have to be afraid, they quickly start to find their way and gain confidence.

Do you have an example of a woman who, thanks to your course or cooperation, made significant progress in terms of finance and self-confidence?

Yes, there are many such stories. For instance, a client who, after the sudden death of her husband, was afraid she "wouldn't be able to handle it all." Her husband handled everything, and she had no overview of the family finances. Within a few months, we set up a plan and management for the existing assets, started investing, created a budget, and most importantly—she began to believe that she could handle it. Today, she manages everything herself and often repeats to me: "Thanks to you, I finally understood it."
Other women have set up asset accounts and invest regularly in ETFs, stocks, and bonds. Others have committed to real estate investments. For me, these are the biggest rewards.

What is, in your opinion, the first step a woman should take when she wants to take her financial situation into her own hands?

Start by giving yourself permission to think about it. Without reproach, without guilt. Sit down, look at your situation—what I have, what I don't have, what I want. And then take one first concrete step—read an article, sign up for a workshop, talk to someone you trust. The important thing is not to lose heart. Every situation has a solution. It is never too late to start—even a small change can bring great relief.

Does women's approach to money management change with age?

Yes, definitely. Younger women often want a quick overview and a simple solution, but sometimes they underestimate the long-term impact of their decisions. Women in their forties usually feel the need to have things under control, they start to be more interested in the future—retirement, children, assets. And then there is the group of women over 50 facing major life changes—children are leaving home, retirement is approaching, they are re-evaluating what they actually want. At this stage, a desire to finally have clarity in finances and have sufficient reserves very often arises.

What role do community, sharing, and support among women play in ensuring they are not afraid to be their own financial advisor?

A huge one. When women see that they are not alone, that someone else is asking the same questions, that others are dealing with similar fears, their shyness fades away. Sharing gives courage, inspiration, hope. And most importantly—it brings motivation. Many women tell me that it was precisely because of the group and the atmosphere of safety that they dared to start at all. And some of them then go on to motivate others. That is the magic of community for me—we support each other and grow together.

What would you say to women who feel that it is "too late to start"?

It is never too late. You can start anytime—even with a small amount, even for a limited time. The important thing is to give yourself the start. Many women who come to me after fifty or sixty say they don't know if it makes sense to change anything. And I tell them: Right now is the right time. Because now you are doing it for yourself—not out of duty, not because of someone else, but because you deserve security, peace, and the ability to choose.

What are you most proud of in your work?

That I succeed in connecting the world of finance with humanity. That I can show women that investing doesn't have to be just about charts and numbers, but primarily about life, freedom, and trust in oneself. And also that many of those who came to me with worries are now running their own projects, investing, teaching their children, and becoming an inspiration for others. That is the real value for me—and more than any professional title.

Lenka Karadžovová’s website: https://lenkakaradzovova.cz/

Interview written and processed by: Lenka Petrásková