Empowering Everyday Millionaires: Kelly Ann Winget’s Bold Vision for the Future of Investing

Kelly Ann Winget is changing the game for investors. As the founder and CEO of Alternative Wealth Partners, she’s on a mission to make sophisticated, high-return investments accessible to everyone. With nearly $1 billion raised in private capital, Kelly Ann champions alternative assets that empower everyday millionaires to build wealth. Her innovative approach blends financial education with opportunity, redefining how we think about investing and wealth creation. Passionate about inclusivity, she ensures that investors from all backgrounds have access to institutional-grade opportunities. Through her work and her book, Pitch the Bitch*, Kelly Ann is inspiring a new generation of financially confident, empowered individuals.

Your journey has been unique, with deep roots in North Dallas and the oil and gas industry. How didthese early influences shape your approach to alternative investments and your philosophy at AWP?

I was fortunate to be exposed to the financial world at a young age because both of my parents worked in the industry. Discussions about money and their entrepreneurial spirit were a part of my upbringing; and therefore, I was always encouraged to carve my path, which had a major influence on who I am. I am thankful to my parents for giving me a safe space to fail, which has been a critical component of my success. 

My entrepreneurial spirit and tendency to question the status quo led me to invest in alternative assets, which include everything outside of traditional assets like stocks, bonds and cash. To be successful in investing in alternatives like privately owned businesses, real estate, energy, including oil and renewable energy, and start-up ventures, you have to be creative and willing to get down to the nitty-gritty details. I am fascinated by alternatives because I am challenged to see opportunities where others do not, and then figure out how to scale them and create wealth. 

I started my firm after years in the background watching the wrong people poorly manage money while delivering terrible returns to the investors and blaming “the market.” I knew I was smarter than them, so it was time for me to become the leader of my own business. I wanted to give returns, insight, and control back to the investor. Alternative Wealth Partners gives the individual the investment experience that disappears when you dump money into the Vanguards of the world. 

You’ve raised nearly $1 billion in private capital—a remarkable achievement. What strategies do youbelieve were key to building investor trust and reaching that milestone?

Thank you. Listening is at the heart of building investor trust. I prioritize understanding what investors want, need, fear, and aspire to achieve. Investment decisions are complex, which is why many people rely on professionals. I make it a point to engage with investors that larger money managers often overlook. 

For instance, I’ll connect with a carpet cleaning business owner after getting my carpets cleaned, knowing they might one day consider selling or passing on their business. These businesses can generate over $1 million annually and sell for several million. By taking the time to discuss their dreams outside of the daily grind, I quickly build trust. 

I believe in playing the long game. Even if someone isn’t my client today, by providing value without any expectation, I ensure that when they’re ready to invest, I’ll be top of mind. This approach has been crucial in reaching that nearly $1 billion milestone in private capital over my career. 

AWP focuses on “everyday millionaires” who may not have the resources of ultra-wealthy investorsbut still seek sophisticated investments. How do you tailor your approach to meet the needs of thisdemographic?

At Alternative Wealth Partners, we designed our approach specifically with “everyday millionaires” in mind because we understand that while they may not have the same resources as ultra-wealthy investors, they still deserve access to sophisticated, high-quality opportunities. These are individuals who have worked hard to build their wealth, and our mission is to help them protect and grow it—without the volatility and limitations of traditional markets. 

We start by focusing on education and transparency. Unlike the typical approach in the alternatives space, which often caters to insiders, we break down each investment in clear terms so that our clients understand what they’re investing in, how it works, and what the potential risks and rewards are. This includes one-on-one consultations and thorough walkthroughs of each asset class, from private equity and venture capital to energy and real estate. 

Our strategy is also built around accessibility and diversification. Rather than requiring massive minimum investments, we structure our funds to be more accessible, which allows our clients to diversify across multiple assets. This reduces risk exposure and gives them a range of income streams, which is key to a resilient portfolio. 

Finally, we prioritize investments with non-correlated returns—assets that perform independently of the stock market—so that our clients aren’t as affected by economic swings. This is especially valuable for those who want to protect what they’ve built. By providing opportunities that are both accessible and strategic, AWP is empowering everyday millionaires to invest confidently and make the most of their wealth. 

Your work spans multiple sectors like oil and gas, private equity, venture capital, and opportunity zones. What criteria do you use to identify and assess promising opportunities across these diverse areas?

First, I prioritize sectors that offer tangible value and long-term stability. Oil and gas, for instance, remain foundational because energy is a core need that isn’t going anywhere. Within that, I look for operational efficiency, technological advancement, and strategic growth potential. In venture capital, it’s all about innovation—particularly with companies that are addressing real-world problems, have scalable business models, and demonstrate strong leadership. 

Risk management is also essential across all these areas. I focus on diversifying investments within each sector, but also by leveraging varied asset classes, we help mitigate macroeconomic risks and protect investor capital. Opportunity zones are a good example of a win-win: they allow us to support underserved communities while leveraging tax benefits, which adds another layer of appeal for investors. 

The ability to create non-correlated income is another major factor. I look for opportunities that will hold their value or even grow independently of traditional markets. Finally, it’s about trust and transparency. Every deal we pursue has been vetted deeply, aligning not just with financial returns but with ethical and operational standards that serve our investors and society.

Through a blend of sector expertise, rigorous due diligence, and a hands-on approach, we’re able to uncover opportunities that deliver both performance and stability for our clients. 

Your book, *Pitch the Bitch*, empowers readers to navigate the finance world with confidence. What inspired you to write this, and what are some core messages you hope readers will take away?

I wrote Pitch the Bitch for people looking for deeper answers about money, and anyone wanting to invest in their financial future, in the hope that it sparks conversations and encourages curiosity about money and finance, as this type of education is lacking among many Americans. 

The book aligns with my overall mission to empower women and minorities – and strives to help them understand why the investment wealth gap exists and how to close it. In the book, I share my journey to wealth management through male-dominated spaces while showing you what stones to step on and which to throw on your own wealth journey. Pitch The Bitch pulls the curtain back on why women haven’t had the same opportunities for money, investing, and generating wealth as their male counterparts. This book is the first action item for those looking for deeper answers about money and strategies to change their financial status. 

Pitch the Bitch can help any woman – or anyone – at any stage of their financial journey. Through personal stories of women’s experiences, I share advice that will resonate with and motivate readers to “grab their financial bags for the future!” 

Key messages include to take ownership of the process and stopping being passive about your money/wealth journey. The phrase “I just let my husband do it, or my advisor handles all of that,” will burn more cash than you know. Having even a little bit of ownership around where your money is, what it is doing, and what you want it to be doing, can change your whole status. The most important thing you can do is care and take action. 

You’re a strong advocate for financial literacy and inclusivity. How do you believe the industry can further democratize access to institutional-grade investments for a wider audience?

Financial education is paramount. We need to break down complex financial concepts into digestible information – creating resources that are accessible and engaging, whether through online courses, workshops, or community events. Financial literacy should not be a privilege; it should be a right. 

Collaboration across the industry is key. Financial institutions, advisors, and fintech companies must work together to create innovative products that cater to a broader audience. By embracing a more inclusive mindset, we can design offerings that truly reflect the diverse needs of the market. 

How do you view the role of alternative investments in achieving true diversification for investors? Are there any common misconceptions you encounter when discussing non-correlated assets?

Diversifying your investment portfolio with alternatives can be a smart move. These assets offer a level of diversification that can help protect against losses in traditional assets and the eroding effects of inflation. When the value of your dollars is on a downward spiral, it’s better to have your wealth parked in appreciating assets rather than diminishing cash reserves. While it’s true that alternative investments carry more inherent risk, their potential returns often outshine those of conventional assets. 

One of the biggest myths about alternative investments is that they’re some type of exclusive VIP event where you need a seven-figure invitation. Perhaps back in the day, private equity and hedge funds were the playgrounds of the ultra-wealthy, but now, with the JOBS Act and fintech platforms, the alternatives game has changed. You don’t need a yacht to get in! Today, you can start with a fraction of the cash. No caviar is necessary. 

Then there’s the “too risky” label. Let’s be honest—if you think the stock market is a guaranteed safe bet, I’ve got a bridge to sell you. Risk is everywhere, but alternatives can diversify your portfolio and help protect against those market swings. 

And the idea that these investments are too complicated or illiquid? Thanks to fintech innovation, you can track your real estate or private equity returns from your phone. Transparency, data, and even some liquidity are more accessible than ever. It’s time to retire those old myths and see alternatives for what they are: a smarter, more diverse path to investing. 

At AWP, you balance purpose with profit. Can you share how you prioritize impact while still delivering attractive returns for your clients? 

At Alternative Wealth Partners, purpose and profit go hand in hand. We’ve proven that you don’t have to choose between making an impact and achieving strong financial returns—you can do both. 

We start by being intentional about the investments we pursue. Whether it’s renewable energy, innovative startups, or emerging industries, we focus on opportunities that have the potential to drive meaningful change while delivering solid returns. It’s about aligning with projects and businesses that not only generate wealth but also contribute positively to their communities, industries, or the environment.

We also prioritize transparency and education with our investors. I believe that understanding why and how their money is working makes all the difference. By empowering clients with insight and control, we create a partnership that’s both profitable and purposeful.

Ultimately, impact investing isn’t just about feel-good decisions; it’s smart business. When you invest in forward-thinking industries or ventures solving real-world problems, the upside for both society and the bottom line can be tremendous. At AWP, we focus on that sweet spot where doing good and doing well intersect—and our results speak for themselves. 

Private equity and venture capital often attract similar investors, yet they are fundamentally different. How do you guide clients in understanding and choosing between these two types of investments?

Yes, private equity and venture capital serve different investment goals and risk profiles. When guiding clients, I first emphasize the fundamental nature of each. Private equity typically involves investing in established companies, often to restructure or improve operational efficiencies before selling them for a profit. This is generally a more stable investment – albeit with significant capital required upfront. 

On the other hand, venture capital focuses on startups and early-stage companies. Here, the potential for high returns is coupled with a higher risk, as many startups fail. I encourage clients to consider their risk tolerance and investment horizon. 

I often use a tailored approach, analyzing my client’s financial goals, liquidity needs, and overall portfolio strategy. It’s about aligning their investment choices with their personal values and long-term objectives. We have discussions about diversification, potential returns, and the specific sectors they might be interested in. 

Ultimately, I aim to empower my clients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions that resonate with their financial vision. Each option has its place, but understanding the nuances is key to building a robust investment strategy. 

What advice would you give to aspiring investors who want to explore alternative investments but may feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the industry?

In investing, I personally, always want to have a strategy that has an edge, one that beats the market. I want to show women and minorities how to embrace this and step into their Wealth Alpha. They are not only capable but should be there, and need to understand how powerful they can be when they are given the right resources and information. 

So I encourage everyone to adopt this mindset as they approach their finances. They shouldn’t be afraid to step outside of the box and develop their own, unique investment strategies. There is a tendency for people to “copy and paste” from others in this industry because being different is viewed as being too risky. But when you go against the grain, can you find the opportunities that everyone else overlooks? 

Furthermore, for women specifically, since we tend to live longer, we have to plan and be more proactive than ever before to make sure we have ample savings for a longer retirement than previous generations did. 

The most important thing is to know your “why.” Are you looking for higher returns, tax advantages, or maybe a way to diversify outside of traditional markets? Understanding your goals will help you focus on the right opportunities. Once you have a clear vision, find a trusted partner or advisor who specializes in alternatives. They can provide the guidance you need to evaluate each opportunity, understand the risk profile, and align investments with your goals. 

I also tell investors to start small and think long-term. Alternatives can be less liquid than traditional investments, so it’s important to have patience and not allocate more than you’re comfortable with for the long haul. Diversifying within alternatives can also help you manage risk, which is why I recommend looking at multiple asset classes within the space. 

Lastly, trust the process and understand that alternatives are a powerful way to build wealth and protect against market volatility. The more you dive in, the more confident you’ll become—and over time, you’ll see why alternative investments have been a key strategy for building generational wealth.