Influential Woman · Wealth Management

Kaila Passey

Financial Advisor, Equitable Advisors

Austin, TX

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Bachelor of Science from University of Montana (2007) Degree Bachelor of Arts from University of Montana with focus in Business and Communication Studies (2007) Cert Series 7 Cert Series 66 Cert Group 1 Life and Health Insurance Cert Certified Sake Specialist Cert Certified Wine Educator

Her Story

About Kaila

After 20 years in the wine industry, where I worked with growers in European countries and built amazing connections, I made a life-changing career move to become a licensed financial advisor. I felt the wine industry was capped for growth, and I realized that if I were to create change, I could only do that for myself. I wanted a role where I could impact others' lives in a positive way and where I was curious and engaged. This year, I took that leap and started building my own practice in wealth management. It's been a ton of work establishing myself in a new industry and career, but it's very entrepreneurial and aligns with my core belief in leading with action and choosing courage over comfort. I believe in always having the mindset that you can create change for oneself, and I'm committed to building genuine relationships that translate into both professional and personal success.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Kaila

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to always having that mindset that you can create change for oneself. Building relationships is the key foundation in all sectors of life for me. How we build those relationships and how we choose to carry ourselves and extend that to others helps us really build genuine relationships. I think that kind of translates in your own character, and it exudes in both professional and personal areas of life. It's about being intentional with how you connect with people and letting that authenticity shine through in everything you do.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I ever received was the notion of dreaming or creating something that doesn't exist. It's about pursuing beyond boundaries and not feeling confined by them, but really creating and envisioning your reality, even if it's something that doesn't currently exist in your field. This advice has empowered me to think bigger and not limit myself to what's already been done, which has been instrumental in my ability to make bold career moves and build something new.

03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values most important to me are having the pursuit to be curious and always be willing to learn and pursue change. I value being flexible and having the courage to choose courage over comfort. I believe in having that mindset to be adaptable and not be confined by boundaries. Building genuine relationships is also core to who I am, as I believe relationships are the key foundation in all sectors of life, both professionally and personally.

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