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Empowering Women Through Wealth: A Conversation With Shahmeen Khan

In a powerful episode of the Dallas Professional Women podcast, Irum Jones, the visionary Chief Empowerment Officer, sat down with Shahmeen Khan, a seasoned wealth management advisor with Meridian Wealth, for a timely and eye-opening conversation about women, money, and the power of financial planning.


Their dialogue wasn’t just about dollars and cents—it was about breaking generational cycles, building legacy, and giving women the tools to confidently take control of their financial future.

The Money Conversation Women Need to Have




“Money is still a taboo subject for so many women,” Shahmeen shared candidly. “Whether it’s fear, shame, or simply lack of education—we’re not talking about it enough. And that’s the first step we need to change.”

With over 20 years in the financial services industry, Shahmeen has seen firsthand how transformational financial empowerment can be. Yet, the stigma around money, particularly among women, continues to be one of the greatest obstacles. Too often, women wait for a “better time” to invest or assume they need to have a large sum to get started. Shahmeen wants to change that narrative.




Start Where You Are, Use What You Have

“You don’t need a minimum balance to begin investing,” Shahmeen emphasized. “You just need the willingness to start.”

That simple but powerful truth became a major theme of the podcast episode. Investing doesn’t have to be complicated, and it certainly shouldn’t be intimidating. Shahmeen and her firm, Meridian Wealth, provide services that make wealth-building accessible—starting with education.


Dallas Professional Women, through this podcast and other platforms, echoes that mission. Irum added,

“So many women in our community wear multiple hats—entrepreneur, caregiver, breadwinner—and yet they’re told they’re not ‘ready’ for financial planning. That’s not true. You are ready. You just need a partner who understands your journey.”

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Financial Literacy: The Foundation of Freedom

One of the highlights of the episode was the discussion around financial literacy. Shahmeen shared her process of working with clients to understand their income, expenses, and goals before even suggesting investments.


“We always begin with a budget,” she explained.


“You have to understand what’s coming in and going out before you can make decisions for your future. Once that’s in place, the conversation around investing becomes much clearer—and a lot less scary.”

She also touched on the concept of compound investing, calling it “the eighth wonder of the world.” Starting small and being consistent, she said, can lead to exponential growth over time.



Myth-Busting: “I Don’t Have Enough to Invest”

One of the most powerful sections of the video tackles the myth that you need thousands of dollars to start investing. Using a simple animated graph, Shahmeen demonstrates how $50/month can grow significantly over time due to compound investing.


She explains: “There is no minimum to start investing with my firm. The only requirement is commitment.”


This inclusive approach is why so many women—from stay-at-home moms to six-figure earners—are turning to Meridian Wealth.



Meridian Wealth: A Firm Rooted in Trust and Transparency

Meridian Wealth isn’t your average financial firm. As a fiduciary, they are legally obligated to act in the best interest of their clients. They offer fee-based, non-proprietary products, and prioritize long-term relationships over quick wins.

Shahmeen described the firm as “a trusted partner and accountability coach.” Beyond just financial guidance, Meridian Wealth offers personalized communication, home visits, and regular check-ins tailored to a client’s unique life and risk tolerance.


“We’re here for the long haul,” Shahmeen said. “This isn’t a one-time transaction. It’s a partnership.”

Women in Business, Women in Control

As leaders in their respective fields, both Irum and Shahmeen understand the challenges women in business face—especially when it comes to finances.

Many women are brilliant at budgeting, multitasking, and running households or companies, yet still doubt their financial decisions. This lack of confidence is widespread. Shahmeen noted that 84% of women don’t feel confident handling financial windfalls, compared to 64% of men.


But that’s changing.....


According to recent studies, by 2030, women are expected to control $30 trillion in U.S. financial assets—and 50% of the world’s wealth. These statistics reflect a massive shift in economic power, and Shahmeen believes now is the time to ensure women are equipped to handle it.


“Whether you're running a business, managing a household, or building your career—you are your first investment,” she stated. “Financial independence gives you choices. And choices give you power.”

The Underrepresentation of Women in Finance

Despite the economic momentum, women are still underrepresented in the financial advising industry. Only 15% of financial advisors are women, yet 70% of female investors say they prefer working with a female advisor.


Shahmeen shared how this reality inspired her to build a business rooted in empathy, inclusion, and real conversations—something she believes the industry desperately needs more of.


“I don’t just work with numbers. I work with people,” she said. “I listen. I learn their story. I help them create a financial roadmap that aligns with their values, goals, and lifestyle.”




Customized Planning: One Size Does Not Fit All

During the podcast, Shahmeen and Irum stressed the importance of customized financial planning. Every client, Shahmeen noted, is different. What works for a high-earning entrepreneur may not be right for a single mom or a retiree.


This is where Meridian’s strength lies—in listening, adapting, and planning with intentionality.


“Accountability is key,” Shahmeen explained. “It’s easy to make a plan and forget about it. We keep our clients on track with ongoing conversations, realistic milestones, and the flexibility to adjust as life changes.”

Whether it’s planning for college, retirement, home ownership, or business growth—Shahmeen believes every financial goal deserves a roadmap.



The Power of Mentorship and Giving Back

Throughout the conversation, Shahmeen’s passion for service and mentorship shined through. Beyond her work at Meridian, she’s deeply involved in volunteer work and mentoring young women entering the financial industry.


Her advice to aspiring advisors?

“Lead with integrity. Don’t be afraid to be the first or the only in a room. And always stay curious.”

Irum applauded Shahmeen’s willingness to “hold the door open for the next generation,” noting that true empowerment is never self-serving—it lifts others as it rises.



Taking the First Step: How to Connect With Shahmeen

Toward the end of the podcast, the conversation shifted to action. What can listeners do today to begin their financial journey?


Shahmeen’s advice was simple: Start now. Ask questions. Find a partner who listens.


Meridian Wealth works with clients in all 50 states, and Shahmeen offers free consultations to help individuals and families begin the conversation.

She invited listeners to follow her on social media for practical tips and real-life financial advice. Her team also shared educational slides with five must-know financial terms, which will be featured in the podcast video and available for download.



Final Thoughts: You Are Worth the Wealth

This conversation wasn’t just a podcast—it was a call to action. A reminder that financial empowerment is personal empowerment. That women can—and should—be the architects of their financial futures.


Irum closed the episode with a powerful reflection: 

"When women rise financially, entire communities rise. Financial literacy isn’t just a skill—it’s a form of leadership."

So, whether you’re a business owner, a working professional, or just starting out—know this: your financial goals are valid. Your future is worth investing in. And you don’t have to do it alone. Meridian Wealth Management is more than just managing assets. We're dedicated to enriching your life and your community. Choosing Meridian Wealth Management means choosing a fiduciary partner who prioritizes your financial well-being and shares your values. With a proven track record, personalized approach, and commitment to community, we're here to guide you towards achieving your life goals with financial confidence.

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Follow Shahmeen Khan:


About Meridian Wealth Management

Meridian Wealth Management client-driven wealth management firm centered on acting in the client’s best interest as fiduciaries. In 2010, Meridian Wealth Management, LLC was founded to create a platform that supports the goals of our clients and the advisors who serve them. Today, Meridian Wealth Management has over 45 advisors across the United States who all share the Meridian belief of doing what is best for the client.



About Dallas Professional Women

Dallas Professional Women (DPW) is a business amplification platform and network dedicated to helping women-owned, women-led, and brands that help women rise, connect, and succeed. Through masterclasses, mentorship, and community partnerships, DPW empowers solopreneurs, entrepreneurs, executives, non-profit leaders and students with the tools, visibility, and resources they need to thrive—while creating meaningful impact in the community and beyond.


Subscribe to the Dallas Professional Women podcast to hear more empowering conversations like this one, and follow @meridianwealthtx for updates, resources, and inspiration for your financial journey.

 
 
 

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