A Panel Discussion with Moderator Melissa Joy, President of Pearl Planning

The Women’s Exchange of Washtenaw invites you to an engaging panel discussion and delicious lunch focused on building strong foundations for business success. Gain valuable insights into the legal, financial, insurance, and accounting aspects of running a successful business.

Moderated by Melissa Joy, this event features a dynamic panel of experts sharing strategies and best practices to empower women in business. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or professional, this discussion will provide actionable takeaways to help you thrive.

Don't miss this opportunity to network, learn, and grow!

Meet Melissa
Before founding Pearl Planning, I worked in the world of financial planning and investments for more than twenty years. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, I specialize in working with executives, entrepreneurs, and those needing help with transitions such as retirement or divorce. Even though Pearl is based in Dexter, Michigan, our clients live coast-to-coast and we use all the tools of technology plus plain-old human connection to build relationships across the miles.

While I was a partner and owner of a large Detroit-based registered investment advisor, I always dreamed of starting my own company. Now that dream is a reality. Founded in 2018, Pearl Planning fulfilled those dreams. Just as a pearl symbolizes wisdom gained through experience, I used my background running the investment and financial planning departments along with complex client practice experience to create a client-focused, personalized and modern wealth management firm.

Dexter, Michigan is home for me, my husband, Jeff, and our kids, Gus and Josie. In addition to spending time with family, I have a lifetime love of playing soccer, reading, and travel. I also have a passion for supporting and promoting women in financial advice careers.

Panelists

Anne Linder J.D.
Managing Member, ZVMLaw
Anne E. Linder (she/her) has over 15 years of experience as an attorney serving clients ranging from individuals and startups to multi-billion dollar international companies. She is passionate about helping clients prevent future problems and finding creative solutions at the intersection of law and business. A native of Washington, D.C., Anne began her legal career as an associate at Chadbourne & Parke (now known as Norton Rose Fulbright) where she practiced reinsurance litigation and arbitration. After returning to Michigan, Anne litigated at smaller regional firms, worked as a solo practitioner, and served on the Representative Assembly for the State Bar of Michigan. Anne served as the Assistant General Counsel for Orlans PC, one of the largest women-owned law firms in the country, and as an Attorney-Counselor at the University of Michigan Law School. Since joining ZVMLaw, Anne has advised clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to entrepreneurs and creatives. Anne received her B.A. from Bates College and her J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School.

Ronisa Clark
Owner, Dream Joy Consulting
Ronisa has worked in the accounting field for over 24 years, with recent experience in government, non-profit and healthcare. She operates as a Fractional CFO for healthcare professionals in private practice. Additionally, Ronisa is an Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor with extensive experience working in various accounting systems. She is currently serving as the Board Treasurer for The Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan. When not crunching numbers, Ronisa loves traveling with her husband and kids. She also enjoys crocheting, reading, and journaling.

Viktoria K. Wilson CFP® CRPC®
Certified Financial Planner, America’s Retirement Headquarters
Born and raised in Slovakia, my journey with finances began at a young age. When my father left our family when I was just six, my mother was left to raise three children on her own, and financial struggles became a daily reality. This early exposure to financial challenges instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of smart money management. I work with high-income earners, especially women, families with complex financial needs, and small business owners. I connect deeply with women entrepreneurs or female primary income earners and mothers because I understand the unique financial challenges they face. My husband owns his own shed business, and through our experiences, I have gained first hand insight into the financial intricacies of running a small business. In 2016, I officially entered the financial industry, driven by a passion to help others navigate their financial lives. Having experienced financial hardship firsthand, I’m dedicated to helping my clients achieve their financial goals through comprehensive financial planning. My mission is to provide the guidance and support necessary for them to build a secure financial future.

Bridget Robinson
Client Advisor, Acrisure
Life and Health Insurance Agent for Individual and employee benefits. Specializing in health Insurance for employer groups in Michigan. Medicare and Marketplace certified, Certified Risk Advisor with Acrisure.