Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, dedicated to celebrating International Women’s Day!  This year’s theme, "Count Her In: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment," sets the stage for today's discussion. Join me as I delve into the critical importance of economic empowerment for women and explore actionable steps toward closing the gender gap. While we celebrate the progress made by women we must acknowledge the frustratingly slow pace of change. From the challenges faced by women during the pandemic to the systemic biases entrenched in our society, it's clear that there's still much work to be done. It is unacceptable that it will take 169 years to close the gender economic gap. We're losing out on trillions of dollars in gross domestic output annually due to gender inequality.  It’s time for a paradigm shift—a recognition that money is essential to women's lives and a key to unlocking equality. To drive meaningful change, I’ll speak to the myths women must challenge and how to advocate for economic empowerment as a pathway to equality. Don’t forget to share this episode to the women in your life and leave a review! Saijal Patel, CFA, is a former CNBC and BNN journalist and passionate financial wellness advocate. She's bringing Strictly Money directly to you via YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and where ever you get your podcasts. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saij-elle/ Follow on X: https://twitter.com/strictlymoneytv Get in touch: https://saijelle.com/contact-us/ Join Saij Elle’s FREE Money Masterclass for Women: https://courses.saijelle.com/master-class/ Join Saij Elle’s FREE Money Masterclass for Women: https://courses.saijelle.com/master-class/