The State Of Latina Wealth in America with Dr. Marlene Orozco

In this data-packed episode of Yo Quiero Dinero, Jannese sits down with Dr. Marlene Orozco, founder of Stratified Insights and lead researcher behind one of the most comprehensive studies ever conducted on Latina wealth in America. Together, they break down the receipts real numbers, real stories, and real systems that explain why Latinas continue to earn less, save less, and carry more financial responsibility, despite being one of the fastest-growing economic forces in the country.This conversation goes beyond hot takes and dives into the structural barriers, cultural expectations, and systemic inequities shaping Latina wealth today from entrepreneurship and homeownership to caregiving, education, and retirement. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working twice as hard for half the reward… this episode will make you feel seen and fired up.What We Get Into00:00 Why this Latina wealth data matters01:10 Meet Dr. Marlene Orozco04:25 First-gen roots & entrepreneurship09:30 Necessity vs opportunity businesses12:50 The Latina wealth paradox17:45 The 27% pay gap explained23:50 Entrepreneurship as a wealth strategy29:55 Homeownership & credit barriers34:10 Retirement & investment gaps37:45 Financial first responders47:40 The motherhood penalty56:20 Hope, policy & what’s nextKey TakeawaysLatinas are not behind because of bad choices — the system is working exactly as designed.Education and entrepreneurship do increase earning potential, but they are not enough without access to capital and policy support.Caregiving, cultural expectations, and family responsibility significantly limit Latinas’ ability to save and invest.Homeownership remains a primary wealth strategy, but affordability, credit access, and insurance risks threaten long-term stability.Real change requires structural solutions, not just individual financial literacy.Resources MentionedREPORT - Latina Wealth In America: https://latinoprosperity.org/research,Latino AI Summit: https://tinyurl.com/latinoaisummit2026 Stratefied Insights: https://www.stratifiedinsights.com/ Marlene's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlene-orozcoFree Download: New Year Dinero Reset GuideMy private membership: https://courses.yoquierodineropodcast.com/foundersHave a question? Leave me a voicemailBook: Financially Lit by Jannese TorresThis podcast was produced and edited by Idea to Launch Productions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.