Meet Tara Lewis | Resilient, Empowering, Fearless businesswoman.

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

Hi Tara, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk? Oh, it’s been my lifelong companion! Growing up in tough circumstances, I had to figure out early that playing it safe wasn’t going to get me or my child anywhere. I had my son at 16, and I made a promise to myself that our lives wouldn’t be defined by lack or struggle. I quickly realized the traditional high school route wasn’t going to cut it. So, I took a leap. I left high school, got my GED (not saying it’s the ideal route for everyone, but it worked for me), and at 18, I packed up and moved to Florida with my aunt.

My first job? Flipping burgers at Hardee’s. But I hustled hard, and six months later, I was promoted to manager. Was that risky? Absolutely. Who makes life-altering decisions at 18, right? But here’s the thing: I had no choice. I had a little one depending on me, so fear of failure wasn’t an option.

Taking risks has always been part of my DNA. Whether it’s launching a business or moving across the country, I’ve learned that every risk is either a blessing or a lesson. The only way to fail is to not try at all. And guess what? I’ve had some failures, but they’ve never knocked me down. I just keep moving forward. Each failed venture has taught me something invaluable, and that’s helped me grow not just financially, but personally, too.

Now, I’m proud to say those risks have led to TML Credit Consulting, a successful credit repair and financial consulting business, FulFillHer, a women’s empowerment mentoring program, Thru Trauma To Triumph, a nonprofit organization advocating for domestic violence victims and survivors, a licensed insurance agent and several other roles where I get to uplift my community. For me, it’s never just about making money. Wins come in all forms—like a powerful connection, a new partnership, or even a deep conversation with someone who sees the world a little differently.

So, here’s my advice: Take the risk! Whether you win or learn, you’re growing. And isn’t that what life’s about? Time’s going to pass whether you take a chance or not, so why not give it everything you’ve got? TAKE THE RISK!!!!!

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?
I’m blessed to be involved in several businesses, all of which reflect my passion for empowerment and financial growth. First, I’ve built a successful credit repair and financial consulting business, where I help individuals and families take control of their financial futures. My mission is to provide not just credit solutions but education that empowers people to break generational cycles of financial struggle. Alongside that, I run a women’s empowerment mentoring program, FulFillHer, where I guide women—especially moms and entrepreneurs—on their journeys toward personal and professional success.

What sets my businesses apart is the heart behind them. Everything I do is rooted in a deep commitment to uplift others. Whether it’s through helping someone rebuild their credit or mentoring a woman to find her voice and power, I’m focused on impact, not just income. I think that’s what makes my businesses unique: the personal touch, the genuine care, my transparency of my flaws and mishaps as a woman, as well as the community-centered approach.

It hasn’t been easy to get where I am today. Growing up without a mother, shifted from place to place as a child, no set structure & in tough circumstances, I didn’t have a lot of guidance, so I had to learn most things the hard way. I faced countless challenges along the way—whether it was overcoming financial hurdles, balancing single motherhood with entrepreneurship, or simply not knowing where to start. But through it all, I relied on my resilience and determination. Every failure taught me a lesson, every setback pushed me forward, and every risk I took opened a new door.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that consistency and faith are everything. You don’t have to know all the answers when you start; you just need to keep going. That’s how I’ve built my businesses—by taking one step at a time, accepting constructive criticism, remaining teachable, staying committed to the people I serve, and believing in my vision even when things were tough.

What I want the world to know about my brand is that it’s built on purpose. It’s about helping people rise above their circumstances, whether that’s through financial literacy, mentorship, or simply showing them what’s possible. My journey started with a promise to myself that I wouldn’t allow my circumstances to define me, and that promise has carried me through every venture. If there’s one thing I hope to inspire others to do, it’s to believe in their ability to create the life they want, no matter where they start.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting me here in Florida for a week, I’d want to give them a true mix of adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the local vibe! We’d kick things off with a day at the one and only, stunning Pensacola Beach, where we could soak up the sun, swim in the clear blue waters, and relax. To take it up a notch, I’d definitely book a Dolphin Cruise—there’s something magical about spotting dolphins in their natural habitat!

Day two would be all about thrills, starting with a morning watching the Blue Angels practice their heart-pounding airshows over the Gulf. It’s an absolute must-see for any visitor! Afterward, we’d grab a bite to eat at one of the local seafood joints—maybe The Fish House or Peg Leg Pete’s—for some fresh Gulf seafood, because no trip to Florida is complete without it.

For something truly unique, I’d plan a visit to one of the local boxing gyms where we might even run into Roy Jones Jr. himself, or catch some incredible local talent. And if we’re talking sports legends, we’d have to spend an afternoon exploring the NFL legacy of Emmitt Smith or enjoy a WWE-themed night with a nod to Rikishi at one of the local wrestling spots.

Mid-week, we’d mix it up with a relaxing day of kayaking or paddleboarding through some of the area’s hidden waterways, followed by dinner at Jackson’s Steakhouse for some top-tier dining. Then, I’d make sure to hit up downtown Pensacola’s lively nightlife scene, where we could grab drinks at Perfect Plain Brewing Co. or The Kennedy for craft cocktails.

Toward the end of the trip, we’d check out the Naval Aviation Museum, which is a gem in the area, followed by a fun day at Pensacola Beach Boardwalk for shopping and casual eats. If we’re lucky, we could even catch a live event at the Saenger Theatre to wrap up the week in style.

I’d want them to leave with a mix of excitement, culture, and plenty of memories. From dolphins to Blue Angels, boxing legends, and amazing food, Florida is where adventure meets relaxation—and I’d make sure they experienced the best of both worlds!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe so much of who I am today to my two incredible aunts, who, because my mom left me @ 3yrs old and never returned, stepped in and raised me from ages 6 to 14. Neither of them had children of their own, but they took on the responsibility of caring for me, despite the challenges that came with it. One was a nurse, the other a substitute teacher, and they both modeled the values of hard work, integrity, and resilience.

But what I’m most grateful for is the way they instilled in me the importance of kindness and respect. They showed me that no matter where you come from, treating people with grace and dignity can open doors that hard work alone cannot. Their lessons shaped the foundation of who I am today, and I honestly don’t know where I’d be without their love, guidance, and belief in me. I carry their teachings with me in everything I do, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Website: www.tmlcreditconsulting, www.thrutraumatotriumph.com

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