Becoming a Venture capitalist (VC) can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Investing with the aim of making a positive impact and witnessing the growth of the product or company you've supported is truly gratifying. In particular, directing investments towards Black women founders is a potent means of instigating transformative change and harnessing untapped potential. Countless opportunities lie in wait, but they necessitate a proactive approach to uncover. As a venture capitalist, investing in the stance of diversity and actively championing Black women founders transcends mere morality and financial gains. It is a strategic approach with the potential to catalyze groundbreaking innovations and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Stacey Woods is the Founder and chief executive officer of Uturn Consulting, where she shares her expertise and skills with companies that need an official “turnaround expert.” Prior to launching Uturn Consulting, Stacey served as Senior Vice President of Human Resources Operations at XPO, Vice President of HR Technology for Spectrum (formerly Time Warner Cable), and Vice President of Human Resources Systems at Wells Fargo. 

Stacey has been recognized as a “Top 50 HR Professional” and selected as a “Power 50” member by the National Diversity Council, has been named as a “Black Woman to Watch in Corporate America” by Fairygodboss, and most recently as one of the “50 Most Influential Women” in the greater Charlotte region by The Mecklenburg Times. She believes deeply in fostering community, mentorship, and sharing knowledge, and she does her part by serving as an Angel Investor with Pipeline Angels and BLXVC. 

Tune in!

Key Highlights from the Show

[00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guests, Stacey Woods 

[05:16] Where Stacey comes from and her backstory

[06:19] Stacey’s driving force and what keeps her going 

[07:55] How Stacey discovered and became an Angel Investing 

[09:16] Angel investing strategy awareness and impact 

[10:51] The level of connection in the Angel investing space and the difference it makes 

[12:32] The investment that Stacey is most proud of 

[14:01] How Stacey envisions her investment experience moving forward

[15:09] Stacey's perspective on Black-led funds and representation 

[16:56] Stacey’s message to her younger self 

[19:30] Stacey’s final words of inspiration for investors and founders 

[20:39] Wrap-up and end of the show

Notable Quotes 

• When you know you are making a difference, it doesn’t tire; it will keep you going.

• Nothing is predictable; there are trends in every market; what matters most is the impact you’re making.

• The ongoing connectivity with the founders in the Angel investing space makes all the difference.

• Seeing a product you have invested in progressing is the best feeling and a beautiful journey. 

• If you can be a blessing to another person, regardless of the size, do it.

• If you know you’ve done everything within your sphere of influence to make an impact, but things don’t necessarily work out the way you desire, it’s not because of you. 

• If your intentions are good, you don’t have to shy away from them; be you unapologetically.

• If you are an investor, broaden your horizon and perspective and educate yourself; there are opportunities to be unveiled, but you have to seek them out. 

Let’s Connect

Stacey Woods

Website: https://uturnconsultingllc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceymwoods/

Lisha Bell

Website: https://www.lishabell.com/

Angel Syndicate Website: www.blxvc.com 

MERCH: https://www.lishabell.com/category/all-products

Twitter: https://twitter.com/belllism

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