In this episode of Market Makers IL, we host Yael Weinstock Shemesh, a former senior banking executive and the founder of 82%, an initiative dedicated to moving accomplished women from income earners to strategic asset owners.

We discuss:

• The evolution of the gender pay gap and the critical difference between the pay gap and the wealth gap
• Why highly successful women openly discuss everything except money and investing
• Manhattan real estate as a stable, tangible, and high-yield investment strategy
• The psychological differences between men and women when navigating financial risks and long-term investments
• Navigating career transitions, entrepreneurship, and the importance of creating multiple income streams

As we wrap up Season 2 of Market Makers IL, we continue our deep dive into the world of private banking and wealth management. After exploring various facets of asset allocation throughout the season, this finale brings a crucial conversation to the table. We explore how to move beyond just earning a high salary to actually building long-term wealth, all while keeping our “no suits, no ties” approach and leaving no question unasked.

Yael Weinstock Shemesh is a CPA and former banking executive with a stellar track record. She previously served on the executive board of management at Bank Hapoalim USA, where she built the international division from the ground up and scaled the portfolio to over $2 billion. Recognized by Crain’s New York Business as a notable woman in banking and finance, Yael eventually left the corporate world to found 82%. Named after the current gender wage gap, 82% helps women gain the confidence to make independent financial decisions, primarily through Manhattan real estate. Yael is also heavily involved in philanthropy, serving on the board of Unistream to promote youth entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Yael walks us through her own transition from a comfortable, long-term banking position to becoming an entrepreneur. She shares her insights on why women are culturally conditioned to avoid financial risk, and how 82% provides the professional scaffolding needed to change that. Furthermore, Yael breaks down her specific investment strategy involving small, prime-location Manhattan apartments, explaining why female investors’ natural patience often leads to superior portfolio performance.

We invited Yael because understanding the mechanics of wealth building is only half the battle; the other half is having the confidence and agency to act on it. Yael provides an inspiring, practical roadmap for bridging the wealth gap and taking personal responsibility for one’s financial future. The result is an eye opening season finale that perfectly bridges traditional financial expertise with the necessary mindset for modern investing.