Hi, I'm Tara
Your travel guide on the road to money mastery
Like most, I started with an arbitrary destination and no map.
When I graduated from the University of Washington Foster School of Business in 2020, I was bad with money. I was constantly anxious and confused, which I was ashamed of as a consultant at Ernst & Young, a Big Four accounting firm.
I stayed home while my friends went out. My ex called me “cheap.” I agonized over groceries, clothes, you name it. Hanging over my head was the ever-present question: will I ever have enough? I struggled to navigate finding an affordable apartment, 401(k) matching, and building an emergency fund. I knew I was scared, but didn't know much else.
Then, I discovered personal finance. I read books, listened to podcasts, and built and refined my system. I got hooked on excitement and agency as money flowed from one account to another and my financial future started to take shape.
As calm and confidence replaced fear and anxiety, I realized that enough isn’t a number, or an arbitrary goal. I did have enough, because I trusted my process, knowledge, and mindset.
I believe personal finance is transformational, so I built Trek with Tara to help people who want change and are looking for the map.
You know those people who, when you’re honest and vulnerable with them, respond with “oh wow, you really didn’t read/watch/know that already?” Consider me the opposite of that. Get excited to set achievable goals, pay off debts, and build a financial life you’re proud of - all without a shred of shade.
My principles:
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I refuse to judge! Your journey belongs to you. Wherever you’re starting, I’m here to help.
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Knowledge is money. The more you know about your situation, the better you can make changes to fit your reality to your values.
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Money means choices. That’s what I want for you. You choose how you spend your money, your time, and your life. I’ll help clarify how you can get there.
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Vulnerability is a strength. If I don’t know the answer, I’ll research it and follow up. If we’re not a fit, I’ll refer you to a coach or therapist who can help move your journey forward.
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Gatekeeping is for squares. The best results come from valuing everyone’s time. If you’re not ready or looking for just the basics, check out my free and low-cost anytime resources here.