Julina Ogilvie Of Principle Wealth: How My Experience in Athletics Trained Me to Become a Better Leader
An Interview With Vanessa Ogle
Resilience stands out as one of the most critical qualities. In the face of challenges and setbacks, whether on the racecourse or in the professional arena, the ability to bounce back stronger than before is paramount. Through athletics, I’ve learned to embrace adversity as an opportunity for growth, developing the resilience to persevere in the face of adversity and inspire others to do the same.
The world of sports is not just about physical prowess or competition; it’s an incubator for leadership qualities such as discipline, teamwork, strategic planning, and resilience. Athletes, from amateur levels to professional arenas, often encounter situations that test their limits and require them to step up in ways that mirror the challenges faced by leaders in various fields. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Julina Ogilvie.
Julina manages wealth for high-net -worth individuals and families. Prior to joining Principle Wealth Partners, Julina held executive roles at J.P. Morgan Asset Management and Lord Abbett & Co. In these roles, she used her extensive knowledge of the capital markets to educate the country’s top advisors. Julina is an accomplished speaker and strategist who has presented wealth management concepts to thousands of financial professionals and clients. She has been recognized for her outstanding achievements and serves as a mentor for young women entering the business. With a passion for financial literacy, she created a podcast, Women on Wealth, to empower women on financial concepts. Additionally, she authored Money Confident Girls: A Parents Roadmap to Raising Financially Confident Children (From Toddlers to Teens), further solidifying her commitment to fostering financial competence from an early age. Julina resides in Fairfield, CT with her husband Doug, their daughters Kaylin and Sidney, and two dogs Mudd and Sierra. She currently sits on the Ethics Board of the Investments & Wealth Institute, serves as VP of Finance at the Westport Woman’s Club, and sits on the Board of Directors at River House Adult Day Center. Julina is a Certified Investment Management Analyst® and Certified Private Wealth Advisor® professional who has been featured in CityWire, Parents.com, and MoneyGeek. She is an active skier and triathlete who qualified for the Ironman World Championship in 2024.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career in athletics?
My journey into the world of triathlons was an unexpected one that began later in life when I was in my 30s. Despite being a recent runner, I hadn’t ridden a bike since my childhood and didn’t want to swim, particularly in open water. It wasn’t until about ten years ago when a close friend Melissa, over a glass (or more) of wine one evening, proposed that I join her in a sprint triathlon — the shortest distance in the sport. Initially hesitant, I was eventually persuaded along with another friend, Erin.
Tragically, Melissa lost her battle with cancer just a few years later. That same year Erin encouraged me to continue our triathlon journey together honoring her memory through a growing passion for the sport. Over time, the distances we tackled grew, culminating last in a milestone: completing our first full Ironman in Panama City Beach, Florida. A full Ironman comprises a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon of just over 26 miles. We were shocked when both of us qualified in our respective age groups for the Ironman World Championships. This event will be the first women-only competition to be held in Nice, France this September.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
The most fascinating story of my career isn’t a single event but rather a gradual evolution that led me to embrace the challenges of triathlon training. Just out of college, my exercises consisted of little more than social sessions on the Stairmaster or treadmill. However, everything changed at my first job.
Over fourteen years at that company, I had the privilege of working under two managers who were avid runners. As we traveled to various parts of the country and even abroad, they consistently encouraged me to join them on their morning runs. One particular memory was an early morning jog through the streets of London at 4:30 AM, covering a distance of five miles. At that time, it was perhaps the longest run I had ever completed and remains today my only visit to London.
Looking back, I realized they served as a catalyst into distance running. I found myself signing up for my first half marathon and eventually into the full marathon distance. It’s often said that every triathlete begins with a strength in one discipline, whether it’s running, cycling, or swimming. For me, it was the comfort of running that provided the initial push to attempt a triathlon. Looking back, it’s both amusing and remarkable that my professional career played such a pivotal role in igniting a passion for an athletic pursuit.
Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
- Discipline: Creating and following a training plan over a six to nine-month time frame requires a tremendous amount of discipline. Prioritizing a training schedule to train while working and managing your family is never easy and requires tremendous discipline. Every Sunday I plan my calendar for the next week which consists of what workout is required, the length of time needed to complete it, and at what hour of the day.
- Resilience: The ability to weather adversity is a testament to inner strength and determination. I’ve certainly had my share of them in my triathlon career, in every aspect of the sport. The swim is a constant battle with the anxiety that can take over in the open water and I will never get used to swimmers grabbing my legs or trying to swim over me during a race. The bike and the run are always finding a balance as to how far I can push myself in a race and the amount of carbohydrates and salt I should consume to optimize my results. On the bike and the run, finding the delicate balance between pushing myself to my limits and managing my nutrition intake is an ongoing struggle. Optimizing results requires careful consideration of carb intake and salt consumption based on the weather and distance of the race.
- Discipline: Achieving success in both your professional career and as a triathlete requires a high degree of discipline. This includes prioritizing tasks effectively, creating and maintaining a plan based on your goals, and staying laser-focused on these goals.
- Growth mindset: Personal and professional growth encompasses both a desire for continuous improvement and a willingness to learn and adapt. Embracing challenges as opportunities are what will drive your pursuit of excellence and enable you to thrive and achieve successful results.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. Can you share a pivotal moment in your athletic career that taught you a leadership lesson you’ve applied outside of sports?
One of the most pivotal moments in my athletic career occurred during the Ironman 70.3 race at Jones Beach in Long Island, NY last September. As I arrived at the transition area in the dark early morning hours, it was clear that the day ahead would be filled with challenges. There was a looming storm that prompted other races in the area to reschedule. However, Ironman made the decision to proceed with this race. The severity of the conditions became apparent as we made our way to the swim start of the race. The pouring rain and 5-foot swells convinced the race director to shorten the swim distance, it was almost comical rolling over these waves as volunteers dove into the water as they lost visual of swimmers to ensure our safety. We then had to battle winds gusting up to 40 mph on the 56-mile bike course and half marathon run. These grueling conditions tested every ounce of my physical and mental strength. I wasn’t surprised at the finish to learn that a record number of racers Did Not Finish (DNF). This was an example of the resilience, determination, and perseverance that are required to achieve success. There were constant moments of doubt and exhaustion, I had to constantly remind myself that nothing comes easy and to push through. Challenges are an inevitable part of life.
How has your experience in team dynamics within athletics influenced your approach to leadership in the workplace?
My experience in team dynamics within athletics has profoundly influenced my approach to leadership in the workplace, two lessons stand out. Firstly, the importance of surrounding yourself with a well-rounded team is crucial. In my triathlon journey, my team consists of not only my coach, nutritionist, and physical therapist but also my racing partner Erin, my local triathlon group, and my supportive family. In the business world, this team also extends beyond the confines of the business realm to anyone who contributes and supports my endeavors.
Secondly, I’ve learned the invaluable lesson that effective leadership involves a willingness to learn from anyone, regardless of their role or stature. This lesson became abundantly clear when I discovered the often-overlooked fourth discipline of triathlons: nutrition. Despite years of racing experience, I found myself consistently crashing at the end of races, unable to fuel properly and suffering from exhaustion. It wasn’t until someone suggested I focus on my nutrition that I realized the critical role it plays in a race. Looking back it appeared so simple, that I completely disregarded it. After resisting this idea, I began to meticulously track my food and fluid intake during training and races. This simple adjustment from what seemed to be a minor suggestion, proved to be transformative. With the guidance of a nutritionist, I now approach my nutrition regimen with the same level of dedication and precision as I do my swim, bike and run training. Monitoring everything from my protein intake, to hydration levels to salt intake, has revolutionized my performance and overall well-being. In my most recent race, a full Ironman distance event, I experienced firsthand the profound impact of prioritizing nutrition. Not only did I achieve my longest distance ever, but I also felt stronger at the finish line than ever before.
In what ways has facing defeat or challenges in sports prepared you for handling failure and setbacks in your professional life?
Facing defeats and challenges in sports, particularly through competing in triathlons, has provided me with invaluable lessons that directly translate to handling setbacks and failures in my professional life. Triathlons are filled with uncertainty and obstacles. Whether it’s the weather, a sudden fall on the bike, a nagging injury from a run, or a panic attack in an open water swim, I’ve encountered my fair share of setbacks during races. Even in training, there are days when the body simply refuses to cooperate, leading to frustration and doubt.
However, it’s through these experiences that I’ve learned the importance of resilience and mental toughness. During challenging times, it’s easy to succumb to self-doubt and negativity.Yet, just as in sports, I’ve learned that success in your professional career demands the same tenacity and perseverance.
How do you apply the discipline and training regimen from your athletic pursuits to your current leadership role?
Just as in triathlons, where multiple disciplines demand preparation and training, my professional responsibilities require a similar level of prioritization and allocation of time. I manage multiple responsibilities and tasks, each demanding certain skills and resources. I apply the same discipline and prioritization that guide my training regimen. Much like balancing my swim, bike, and run workouts, I prioritize and allocate my time among various tasks and projects ensuring that each receives the time and attention needed. This discipline extends beyond time management, into business planning, accountability, and execution. The resilience and determination I apply in my training I replicate in my business goals and planning.
Reflecting on your journey, what specific skills or attributes developed through athletics do you believe are most essential for effective leadership?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe that several key skills and attributes developed through my training that are indispensable in my professional career. Resilience is one of those qualities. In the face of a challenge, whether in a race or related to business, the ability to accept and handle this challenge is key. It’s critical to embrace this adversity as an apportunity for growth.
Discipline is a second attribute. The preparation and execution of a training regimen that is required in triathlons is also necessary from a professional standpoint. Prioritizing and adhering to a structured approach is critical for a business and creates a culture of excellence and accountability for a team.
A growth mindset is equally essential in business. Just as in sports, where continuous improvement is key to success, so is a professional mindset that continues to grow and adapt. Embracing change, seeking out new opportunities for learning and growth, and encouraging this mindset with your team, fosters a powerful business culture.
Based on your experience, can you please share “5 Ways That Athletics Can Help Train Great Leaders?”
1 . Resilience stands out as one of the most critical qualities. In the face of challenges and setbacks, whether on the racecourse or in the professional arena, the ability to bounce back stronger than before is paramount. Through athletics, I’ve learned to embrace adversity as an opportunity for growth, developing the resilience to persevere in the face of adversity and inspire others to do the same.
2 . Discipline is another cornerstone of effective leadership. The preparation and execution of a rigourous training regimen required in athletics mirrors the discipline necessary to lead with focus and determination.
3 . A growth mindset is equally essential for effective leadership. Just as in sports, where continuous improvement is key to success, seeking out new opportunities for learning and growth are critical to an effective professional team.
4 . Although triathlons are an individual sport, surrounding myself with a diverse and supportive team is crucial to my success. Great leaders in business understand the importance of teamwork and excel in creating cohesive and supportive environments where individuals can work together towards a common goal.
5 . In triathlons it’s common to experience unexpected challenges and circumstances.You must adapt quickly to new situations, make split-second decisions to overcome obstacles.This also translates to the professional realm, where leaders and professionals must navigate uncertainty, manage crises and adapt changes in ever-changing environments.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
The traits we discussed — discipline, resilience, and a growth mindset — have been instrumental in my decision to launch a podcast and write a book on financial literacy. With over 25 years of experience as a financial advisor, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges individuals face in managing their finances.
Financial literacy is a global issue, and I’m particularly passionate about addressing the lack of financial education among women. That’s why I created “Women on Wealth,” a podcast dedicated to providing financial education and empowerment to women. Additionallly, my book, “Money Confident Girls: A Parent’s Roadmapp to Raising Financially Confident Children (From Toddlers to Teens),” aims to instill essential financial skills in girls from a young age.
How can our readers further follow you online?
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Thank you for the opportunity to be heard!
About The Interviewer: Vanessa Ogle is a mom, entrepreneur, inventor, writer, and singer/songwriter. Vanessa’s talent in building world-class leadership teams focused on diversity, a culture of service, and innovation through inclusion allowed her to be one of the most acclaimed Latina CEO’s in the last 30 years. She collaborated with the world’s leading technology and content companies such as Netflix, Amazon, HBO, and Broadcom to bring innovative solutions to travelers and hotels around the world. Vanessa is the lead inventor on 120+ U.S. Patents. Accolades include: FAST 100, Entrepreneur 360 Best Companies, Inc. 500 and then another six times on the Inc. 5000. Vanessa was personally honored with Inc. 100 Female Founder’s Award, Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and Enterprising Women of the Year among others. Vanessa now spends her time sharing stories to inspire and give hope through articles, speaking engagements and music. In her spare time she writes and plays music in the Amazon best selling new band HigherHill, teaches surfing clinics, trains dogs, and cheers on her children.
Please connect with Vanessa here on linkedin and subscribe to her newsletter Unplugged as well as follow her on Substack, Instagram, Facebook, and X and of course on her website VanessaOgle.
Julina Ogilvie Of Principle Wealth: How My Experience in Athletics Trained Me to Become a Better… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.