Meet Yolanda Meade
We had the good fortune of connecting with Yolanda Meade and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Yolanda, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind starting my own business came directly from my personal experience. I know firsthand what it feels like to not have the right financial guidance to feel lost during tax season, unsure how to properly structure a business, and overwhelmed trying to stay compliant while still trying to grow. I didn’t read about it I lived it. And that’s exactly why I built a business rooted in real support, real solutions, and real results. I wanted to become the resource I once needed someone who could not only break down the numbers but also explain the “why” behind the process. Someone who could help navigate complex systems, offer trusted strategies, and most importantly, meet people where they are with understanding and clarity.
For me, it was never just about making money. It was about making a meaningful impact. I saw the gap in financial education and compliance support for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders especially in underserved communities and I decided to fill that gap with purpose, passion, and service. My mission is to empower others to succeed not just survive. And every client I help, every strategy I share, and every tax season I support is a reflection of that mission.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Yes, I still run my business and work a part-time job that I genuinely enjoy.
But my heart?
My passion?
It’s right here serving my clients, educating my community, and building something that creates impact beyond just income.
What sets me apart is that I understand what it means to juggle real life while chasing real dreams. I’ve built my business with resilience, faith, and a deep desire to help people especially nonprofit leaders get the clarity and compliance they need to succeed. I’ve been in their shoes, confused and overwhelmed, and now I serve as the resource I once needed.
The journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to learn how to balance it all work, business, family, and personal growth.
But every challenge pushed me closer to my purpose. And every lesson taught me how to serve better.
Through it all, I’ve learned:
– Your passion will make room for you.
– You don’t have to quit everything to build your dream, but you do have to stay consistent.
– Surrounding yourself with mentors, accountability partners, and supporters is key.
I want the world to know that my brand was built on purpose, passion, and persistence. I didn’t just create a business I answered a calling. Yolanda Financial Services LLC was born from a deep desire to help individuals, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders not only become financially compliant, but to understand their finances and build something sustainable.
My journey began in the credit industry, and through faith, determination, and continuous learning, I expanded into tax preparation, nonprofit consulting, business funding, and mentorship. It hasn’t always been easy—especially being a mother to a beautifully artistic child who sees the world in a unique way. Balancing motherhood with building a business comes with its own set of challenges, but it also gave me even more purpose. I kept pushing, because I knew I wasn’t just building for myself I was leaving footprints for my child and for others who look up to me.
That’s why I also founded upcoming Always Overcoming Obstacles, a nonprofit created to empower the community, provide resources, and help others navigate challenges with grace and grit. My story is one of perseverance. I’ve overcome doubt, setbacks, and growing pains, but I never gave up. I kept showing up.
My brand is about more than services it’s about legacy, education, and empowerment. I want people to know they’re not alone on this journey. With the right support, knowledge, and faith, you can overcome anything and build something that lasts.
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?
It’s actually perfect timing that you asked this I’m preparing for a visit from my accountability partner, and I’ve planned an unforgettable experience for us. We both lead incredibly busy lives, constantly pouring into our businesses and clients, so I wanted to create a day that’s all about relaxation, laughter, and quality time.
We’ll start our day at the luxurious spa and wellness center at the Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia. I’ve heard outstanding reviews about their services, and I know it will be the perfect place for us to unwind. From massages to facials, I want us both to truly relax and reset our minds and bodies. It’s long overdue!
After our spa session, we’ll head out for a night of laughter and entertainment. I’m currently looking into a comedy show or a live performance—something fun and upbeat to keep the energy high. Of course, dinner and cocktails are a must, so I’ve been scouting out a few upscale spots for us to enjoy a great meal and a well-deserved toast to our growth and hard work.
To make the visit even more memorable, I’m planning a short trip to Baltimore for some incredible seafood. There’s just something about enjoying fresh crab and shrimp by the harbor that brings peace and joy. Plus, it’s a great way for us to step away from our regular environments and just be present, enjoy the moment, and dream about what’s next.
I’m truly looking forward to this time together it’s more than a getaway, it’s about celebrating progress, recharging, and being intentional about our personal and professional sisterhood.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As I reflect on my journey of building my business, I have to give credit where it’s truly due. This path has been filled with challenges, sacrifices, and lessons but it’s also been filled with purpose, growth, and incredible people who believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself.
Building a business from the ground up is no easy feat, especially while balancing motherhood, leadership, and personal development. But I’ve been blessed with a circle of mentors, friends, family, and accountability partners who poured into me sometimes with guidance, sometimes with tough love, and always with genuine support.
Their voices helped me stay grounded. Their encouragement reminded me to keep going. And their presence helped shape the woman and CEO I’ve become today.
I stand here not just because of my own strength and drive, but because of the people who saw potential in me and helped me unlock it.
So today, I honor everyone who played a role in my journey. Your impact is part of my story, and your belief in me is part of my legacy. Thank you.
To my mentor, Dr. Cozette White thank you for being the guiding light I didn’t know I needed. Your mentorship came into my life at the perfect time, and I’m so grateful for the way you saw something in me even when I was still figuring it out for myself.
You pushed me forward when I doubted my own path. You challenged me to think bigger, to go deeper, and to truly align with my purpose. Through your wisdom and guidance, I gained clarity on who I’m called to serve and why my work matters. Because of you, I discovered my lane serving and supporting nonprofit organization leaders with the tools, knowledge, and strategies they need to not just survive, but thrive.
Taking your class was a turning point in my journey. If I hadn’t made that decision, I truly don’t believe I would be where I am today. You helped me elevate my vision, embrace my voice, and own my expertise and for that, I am forever thankful.
You’ve made an imprint on my heart, my brand, and my mission and I will always honor that.
To my accountability partner, Noelle Santos it’s truly wild to think we only met a year ago, because the impact you’ve had on my life feels like that of a lifelong friend and sister. From the very beginning, your consistency, honesty, and genuine spirit have been unmatched. You’ve shown up for me in ways that many wouldn’t, holding me accountable not just in business, but in life.
Your realness keeps me grounded, and your encouragement has kept me sharp especially in those moments when self-doubt crept in. You always reminded me of who I am, what I’m capable of, and the mission I’m walking in. You never let me play small, and I respect you deeply for that.
I’m beyond grateful for both your partnership and your friendship. You’re more than an accountability partner you’re a divine connection, and I’m honored to grow, build, and rise together.
To my husband, Mr. Meade thank you for being my backbone, my silent strength, and my unwavering supporter. Your belief in me, even when I’ve doubted myself, has meant more than words can express. You’ve stood by me through every late night, every early morning, every breakthrough and breakdown.
Behind the scenes, your love, patience, and quiet encouragement have been the foundation of everything I’ve built. You’ve allowed me the space to dream boldly and supported me as I chased those dreams with all I had.
None of this would be possible without your constant support. I’m beyond grateful to share this journey and this legacy with you.
Last week, I was truly inspired by a powerful statement made by Tyler Perry: “The footprints you create are your legacy, so keep going never give up.” That message resonated with me on a deep level. It was a reminder that every step I take, every challenge I overcome, and every person I help contributes to the legacy I’m building. It reignited my motivation to keep pushing forward, no matter what obstacles come my way. I’m committed to continuing this journey with purpose and perseverance.
Success takes a village, and I’m so blessed to have mine.
Email: www.yolandafinancialservice@outlook.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ywhitfield1991
Image Credits
Nathan Pearcy
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