Career Development

From Wall Street to Storytime: How a Former C-Level Exec Found Fulfillment Writing Kids' Books on Finance

Business Insider2 min read109 views
From Wall Street to Storytime: How a Former C-Level Exec Found Fulfillment Writing Kids' Books on Finance

Shireen Eddleblute's Inspiring Career Transformation

Shireen Eddleblute made a bold move by leaving her high-powered career in investment to pursue her true passion: writing children's books focused on financial literacy. Her journey is a testament to following one's heart and making a lasting impact.

Shireen Eddleblute headshot Shireen Eddleblute took time off work to look after her family and, later, to start her own company.

A Decade in Investment and a Major Pivot

Shireen began her career as a portfolio manager in the 1990s, working with major firms like Voyageur Asset Management and RBC. She co-managed a quantitative micro-cap fund and even rang the bell at the New York Stock Exchange twice. However, after an 11-year sabbatical to care for her aging mother and raise her children, she realized her identity was shifting from a corporate leader to a caregiver and volunteer.

The Drive to Create Something Lasting

After her mother's passing, Shireen felt a deep urge to build something that could outlive her. Drawing from her father's lessons on saving and investing, and inspired by her volunteer work with foster children, she recognized a gap in financial education for young people. This led to her second career pivot in 2024.

Shireen Eddleblute working Shireen Eddleblute worked in investment. Now, she writes children's books.

Launching Sprouting Sparks

She founded Sprouting Sparks, a company dedicated to creating children's books that teach money management skills to kids aged 4-8. Despite not being naturally creative, she invested in writing masterclasses and attended author conferences to bring her vision to life. She partnered with a hybrid publisher to handle editing and illustration, funding the project herself after leaving her lucrative job.

Sprouting Sparks books Shireen Eddleblute runs Sprouting Sparks, which makes children's books on financial literacy.

Fulfillment Over Finances

Shireen emphasizes that her goal was never wealth but to make a difference. The positive feedback, including five-star reviews and photos from grateful families, has reinforced her decision. She believes that happiness and fulfillment are priceless, and her new path allows her to contribute meaningfully to society, especially for vulnerable children.

  • #careerchange
  • #financialliteracy
  • #childrensbooks
  • #fulfillment
  • #entrepreneurship

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