From Struggle to Strength: How Shawn Pilj Blends Motherhood, Money, and Art to Empower Women

In this episode of "Pass the Mic," guest host Shawn Pilj shares her inspiring journey from financial hardship to business ownership. As the founder and CEO of Marbena Solutions, an independent agency of Five Rings Financial, Shawn is committed to empowering individuals through financial education, mentorship, and personalized strategies. She discusses overcoming adversity, building confidence, and helping clients take control of their financial future. The conversation highlights resilience, faith, and the impact of purpose-driven work in creating lasting legacies for families and communities.

Key Topics & Timestamps

Shawn's Backstory & Family Life (00:01:55) Shawn shares her personal journey, family background, and experiences with financial struggle and growth.

Empowering Moms & Redefining Balance (00:05:11) Discussion on the value of motherhood, balancing family and business, and advice for moms with aspirations.

Transition to Business & Spousal Support (00:10:23) Shawn describes her decision-making process, support from her husband, and how she entered financial services.

Learning & Delegation as a Business Owner (00:19:55) Shawn discusses learning new skills, especially technology, and the importance of asking for help.

Women & Financial Preparedness (00:30:40) Discussion on women's roles in finances, the importance of being prepared, and personal stories of loss.

Relationship Building & Privacy (00:38:34) Shawn emphasizes building lasting client relationships and maintaining privacy in financial discussions.

Artistic Passions & Fluid Art (00:43:06) Shawn discusses her journey as an artist, her style of fluid art, and meaningful art stories.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

Shawn, 'Stop putting these big, huge weights on your shoulders and figure out what's most important for you in your situation right now.'

Shawn, 'Taking a break from something, whether that's five minutes or five years, is not quitting—it's recognizing where you are and what your priority at the moment is.'

Shawn, 'As much as I love my art, it's nowhere near as impactful in as many lives as helping people with their finances is.'

Shawn, 'Every child has unique needs and responsibilities, and you are doing an amazing job in that role.'

Shawn, 'That's been probably the biggest thing—taking that deep breath and going, "Okay, you can learn this. You're a smart person."'

Shawn, 'My life is very fluid. That's part of the reason this works so well, because it's fluid art.'

Resources

CONNECT with Shawn Pilj

• Marbena Solutions: www.MarbenaSolutions.com

• Connect with Shawn: Calendly

• Follow on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram

• Artistic Blessings - www.shawnpilj.com

Connect with the Show

• Pass the Mic Podcast: A unique monthly format featuring different experts in their zones of genius
• Resilient Voice Media: A global podcast network and production company amplifying great people who do great work
• Host: Gabi Garland, founder of Resilient Voice Media
• November Guest Host: Shawn Pilj, Founder & CEO of Marbena Solutions, an agency of Five Rings Financial

A Resilient Voice Media Production

• To work with us submit inquiry at www.resilientvoicemedia.com
• Gabi Garland CEO of Resilient Voice Media
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