Meet Teri Ijeoma | Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Trade and Travel

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

Hi Teri, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I was an assistant school principal, I struggled with a toxic work environment and wanted the freedom to travel. Trading stocks began as a way to supplement my income, but as I became more successful, I realized I could achieve financial independence. I wanted to share this knowledge and help others gain the financial freedom they deserve. This passion led to the creation of Trade and Travel, where I teach others to be financially savvy and empowered through trading.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Trade and Travel is more than just a business; it’s a movement aimed at empowering individuals through financial education. What sets us apart is our commitment to making investing in the stock market accessible and achievable for everyone, regardless of their background or experience. We cater to a diverse community, with 80% of our students being minorities and 60% women. This inclusivity is something I’m incredibly proud of because it shows that anyone can succeed in trading stocks with the right guidance.

Getting to where we are today wasn’t easy. When I first started, I faced numerous challenges, from understanding the intricacies of the market to building a curriculum that could genuinely help people. There were many late nights, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But I overcame these challenges by staying focused on my mission and continually refining my strategies. Persistence and a willingness to learn from my mistakes were key.

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of community. Our students are at the heart of everything we do. Their success stories and feedback have been instrumental in shaping our courses and approach. Another crucial lesson is that risk, when managed wisely, can lead to great rewards.

What I want the world to know about Trade and Travel is that we are dedicated to transforming lives through financial literacy. We’re not just teaching people to trade; we’re giving them the tools to achieve their dreams, whether that’s financial independence, owning a home, or traveling the world. Our journey is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and community.

At the end of the day, our story is one of hope and possibility. If I can inspire just one person to take control of their financial future, then I consider that a success.

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 was visiting Dallas for a week, I’d want to show them a mix of cultural experiences, delicious food, and fun activities. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1 – Arrival and Downtown Dallas:

Morning: Start with breakfast at Bread Winners Café in Uptown for their delicious brunch options.
Mid-Morning: Visit the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) to explore its impressive collection ranging from ancient to contemporary art.
Lunch: Head to Klyde Warren Park, a vibrant urban green space, for food trucks and a picnic.
Afternoon: Walk through the Dallas Arts District, stopping by the Winspear Opera House and Nasher Sculpture Center.
Evening: Dinner at Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck, located in Reunion Tower, for stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 2 – Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts District:

Morning: Breakfast at Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop in Deep Ellum, known for its delicious sandwiches.
Mid-Morning: Explore Deep Ellum, known for its vibrant street art, music venues, and eclectic shops.
Lunch: Enjoy Texas BBQ at Pecan Lodge, a popular spot in Deep Ellum.
Afternoon: Visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, dedicated to the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
Evening: Head to the Bishop Arts District for dinner at Veracruz Café or Lucia, followed by drinks at Bolsa or The Wild Detectives.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Fort Worth:

Morning: Drive to Fort Worth (about 45 minutes). Start with breakfast at Ol’ South Pancake House, a local favorite.
Mid-Morning: Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards to experience Texas cowboy culture and catch the daily cattle drive.
Lunch: Enjoy Tex-Mex at Joe T. Garcia’s, known for its beautiful garden seating.
Afternoon: Explore the Kimbell Art Museum or Fort Worth Zoo.
Evening: Return to Dallas and relax or dine at a local restaurant.

Day 4 – Shopping and Nature:

Morning: Breakfast at Terry Black’s BBQ for some classic Texas barbecue.
Mid-Morning: Shopping at NorthPark Center, a premier shopping destination with high-end retailers and art installations.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Shake Shack or True Food Kitchen at NorthPark Center.
Afternoon: Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden for a leisurely stroll among beautiful gardens and seasonal displays.
Evening: Dinner at Truluck’s Seafood, Steak, and Crab House for fine dining.

Day 5 – Sports and Nightlife:

Morning: Brunch at Oddfellows in the Bishop Arts District.
Mid-Morning: Tour AT&T Stadium in Arlington, home of the Dallas Cowboys, or catch a game depending on the season.
Afternoon: Return to Dallas and relax at the hotel or visit Dallas World Aquarium.
Evening: Explore Lower Greenville for dinner at The Grape or HG Sply Co, followed by drinks at Truck Yard or Bar Belmont for a rooftop view.

Day 6 – Relaxation and Culture:

Morning: Breakfast at Café Momentum, a restaurant supporting at-risk youth.
Mid-Morning: Visit Dallas Farmers Market for local produce and artisan goods.
Lunch: Sample various cuisines at the food stalls in Dallas Farmers Market.
Afternoon: Visit Dallas Zoo or Perot Museum of Nature and Science.
Evening: Dinner at Uchi Dallas for contemporary Japanese cuisine.

Day 7 – Departure Day:

Morning: Brunch at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery in Uptown.
Mid-Morning: Explore Dallas Design District for art galleries and interior design shops.
Lunch: Final meal at Meso Maya or Mudhen Meat and Greens.
Afternoon: Visit White Rock Lake for a scenic walk or bike ride.
Evening: Farewell drinks and dinner at The Rustic with live music.

This itinerary provides a mix of Dallas’s cultural attractions, dining experiences, and entertainment options, ensuring a memorable visit for my best friend!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to give a huge shoutout to my mom. Her unwavering support and encouragement have been invaluable throughout my journey. She has been my rock through all the ups and downs. I’m incredibly grateful that I was able to retire her, giving her the freedom and peace she truly deserves. My success is as much hers as it is mine.

Website: https://www.tradeandtravel.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tradeandtravel/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itradeandtravel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/tradeandtravel