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EP: 032 Overcoming Adversity & Building Wealth w/ Sun Yong Kim-Manzolini

EP: 032 Overcoming Adversity & Building Wealth w/ Sun Yong Kim-Manzolini

On a recent episode of Modern Financial Wellness, I had the privilege of sitting down with Sun Yong Kim-Manzolini—a truly remarkable entrepreneur, author, and self-made millionaire. Her story is nothing short of extraordinary, taking us from her beginnings in a Korean orphanage, unable to walk, to building an amazing life of freedom, abundance, and purpose in the United States. If you’re looking for proof that adversity can be transformed into opportunity—and that transformation starts with mindset—you do not want to miss this episode.

We unpacked Sun Yong’s powerful journey from her traumatic start in life, through her experience of adoption and assimilation into a new culture, to her years working a “dream job” that nevertheless left her financially stressed. Sun Yong candidly recounted how she broke free of the “broken system” of living paycheck to paycheck, why she pivoted into investing and options trading, and what it took for her to become a self-made millionaire. We also explored her mindset shifts, her approach to facing and overcoming fears, and her commitment to helping others reclaim their own power—both financially and personally.

5 Key Takeaways:

  • Your Past Does Not Define Your Future: Sun Yong’s story is a real testament to the fact that regardless of your origin or circumstances, you can transform your life. Her journey from adversity to success is fuelled by her refusal to let her past hold her back.
  • Mindset Is Everything: From learning to walk or speak English to mastering new financial skills, Sun Yong emphasizes the importance of discipline, resilience, and proactive thinking. She highlights how crucial it is to take action despite fear or uncertainty.
  • Financial Freedom Means Choices—Not Just Money: For Sun Yong, true financial independence means having options: being able to take a vacation, spend time with family, help loved ones, and contribute to causes she cares about. Money is a tool for creating a richer and more meaningful life, not the end goal itself.
  • Take Small, Consistent Steps: Whether it was learning to walk, test-driving her dream convertible without yet having the money, or breaking financial goals into manageable targets, Sun Yong continually illustrates the power of breaking big dreams into actionable steps.
  • Surround Yourself with Learning and Opportunity: Sun Yong credits much of her growth to seeking out communities and resources—real estate seminars, trading groups, and mentorships—that taught her new skills. She reminds listeners that to create change, you have to go where opportunities are and put in the work to learn.

You can watch the full video of our conversation on YouTube here:

You can also find the audio versions on places like Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever else you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Make sure to check out some of the great recommendations that Sun Yong provided and follow her content below:

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

FIND SUN YONG @: