Lauren Simmons

Lauren Simmons is a financial expert, media personality, and advocate for diversity and inclusion, recognized for her groundbreaking role on Wall Street. At age 22, Simmons became the youngest and only full-time female trader at the New York Stock Exchange, and the second African American woman in the Exchange's history to hold this position. Known as the Wolfette of Wall Street, Simmons transitioned from a background in genetics and statistics, having earned a bachelor's degree from Kennesaw State University, to a career in equity trading. She passed the Series 19 exam, noted for its high fail rate, on her first attempt.

During her tenure at the NYSE, Simmons managed customer order flows valued at $150 million daily. Her historic achievement attracted widespread media attention, with features on Fox, ABC, CNN, and CNBC. Simmons has been recognized for her advocacy in promoting diversity and inclusion within the financial sector, receiving honors such as Woman of the Year by Harper's Bazaar and being named a Woman of Impact by Politico. Her experiences as one of the few women, and the only Black woman, on the trading floor have informed her commitment to increasing representation in finance.

After her time on Wall Street, Simmons developed a multifaceted career at the intersection of finance and media. She served as the first host and producer of the web series "Going Public," which educates viewers on investing in companies preparing for an IPO, with episodes featured on Entrepreneur.com. Simmons also launched the podcast "Mind, Body, Wealth," later retitled "Money Moves," which became a Spotify original. She authored the book "Make Money Move: A Guide to Financial Wellness," published by HarperCollins and distributed nationally, including in Target stores. Simmons has also been featured in campaigns for brands such as Express, LinkedIn, Ford, McDonald's, PureLeaf, and Lady Champs.

Simmons is a keynote speaker, drawing on her experiences in finance, media, and advocacy to address audiences globally. Her talks focus on financial literacy, diversity and inclusion, and strategies for leveraging individual differences in professional environments. Simmons is also the co-executive producer of a biographical film about her life for AGC Studios. Through her work in finance, media, and public speaking, Simmons continues to shape conversations around leadership, equity, and representation in the financial industry.