We had the good fortune of connecting with Renee Cohen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Renee, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I started Nexa Wealth because I kept seeing the same problem – successful women and professionals making great money but still feeling unsure about their financial decisions. They were saving, investing, doing all the “right” things, yet they weren’t sure if they were actually making the best moves to protect and grow their wealth.

Before financial planning, I worked in sports marketing, where I was around high-level professionals all the time. And what I realized was that making good money doesn’t automatically mean feeling financially secure. People needed someone to help them cut through the noise, simplify their options, and create a clear plan that actually makes sense for their life.

So, I built Nexa Wealth to do exactly that. I help women and professionals get a real strategy in place. One that makes sure they’re not overpaying in taxes, that their investments are working for them, and that they’re building toward a future they actually want. My job is to make money decisions easier so they can focus on living their life without second-guessing every financial move.

What should our readers know about your business?
Nexa Wealth is all about helping successful women and professionals take control of their financial future, without the overwhelm. My clients have worked hard, they’re earning well, and they’ve built wealth but they’re still wondering, Am I making the right financial moves?

What sets me apart is that I keep it simple. Financial planning can feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. I help my clients cut through the noise and create a strategy that makes sense for their life, whether that’s making smart investment decisions, minimizing taxes, or ensuring their wealth is protected long-term.

I’m most proud of the fact that my clients walk away with clarity and confidence. I love hearing them say, “Wow, I finally get it,” or “I feel so much more in control now.” That’s why I do this.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Leaving a stable career in sports marketing to go into financial planning ten years ago was a huge leap. And then leaving a big firm to start my own firm was an even bigger leap. There was a lot of uncertainty, a lot of learning, and plenty of moments where I wondered if I was doing the right thing.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is success isn’t about having all the answers. I’ve had to trust myself, lean on my support system, and get comfortable making decisions without a perfect roadmap.

Nexa Wealth is more than a financial planning firm. It’s helping people build the life they truly want. My goal is to take the stress and second-guessing out of financial decisions so my clients can focus on living fully, now and in the future.

Because money isn’t the goal. Freedom, security, and peace of mind are. And that’s exactly what I help my clients achieve.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they got the full South Bay experience. We’d start the trip with a walk along The Strand, soaking in the ocean breeze, followed by a scenic brunch at Terranea Resort—because the views there are unbeatable. Afternoons would be spent hiking in Palos Verdes, exploring hidden trails with ocean cliffs in the background, or just relaxing by the water.

Having lived in Beverly Fairfax area, I’d take them to some of the best restaurants in the city. AOC for wine and small plates, Mother Wolf for perfect pasta, Catch Steak for a great vibe, or Craig’s for that classic LA experience. It’d be the perfect mix of laid-back coastal living and iconic LA dining.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people who’ve played a role in my journey, but if I had to give a shoutout, it would be to the women in my life who’ve shown me what’s possible from mentors and colleagues to the incredible clients I work with every day.

I’d also give a shoutout to my acupuncturist, Liesel Orend, who’s helped me tremendously with my health. Being an entrepreneur is demanding, and having someone in my corner focusing on my well-being has made a huge difference.

On the business side, I’ve been inspired by the work of Jenna Black, whose approach to messaging and empowerment has helped shape how I communicate my mission with Nexa Wealth.

And, of course, my family and close friends who have supported me through every twist and turn of building a business. Their encouragement has been everything.

Success isn’t a solo journey. It’s built on the shoulders of the people who lift you up along the way. And I’m grateful for every single person who’s been part of mine.

Website: https://www.nexawealthplanning.com

Instagram: @nexa_wealth

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/planningwithrenee/

Image Credits
Brittney Jean

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.