Meet Tammy Shweiger | Mindful Money Coach, Yoga Instuctor & Painter

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

Hi Tammy, how do you define success?
I grew up in a family that defined success in terms of straight A’s, higher education, and job security. A big part of my journey as a business owner was expanding that narrow definition of success. I have come to define success as finding fulfillment in my work and having agency over my time.

Mindful Money Coaching brings me the fulfillment I yearned for but didn’t quite know was possible while I was working as a corporate accountant. In my coaching business and as a yoga teacher, I am able to make a recognizable impact in the financial and physical health of my clients. They are able to change the trajectory of their lives and in turn, redefine what success means to them.

I also crave control over my schedule. I love how every day is different and I get to decide how much or how little I want to take on. I can listen to my body and choose rest when I need to. For me, success is more of a feeling rather than something that can be measured.

What should our readers know about your business?
At the beginning of my career, I followed a very traditional path. I graduated college with a B.S. in accounting, then got my M.S. in accounting, as well as my CPA. My first job out of school was as an auditor for a big four firm. I eventually transitioned into corporate accounting and stayed in the field for about 10 years. I told myself during that time, that I didn’t deserve to do something else, because I couldn’t name it. I imagined that one day I would suddenly wake up with clarity and know exactly what I was passionate about. That was a lie I told myself, and it kept me stuck. I was exhausted and numb—using up all my energy to apply myself to a career I disliked. I was totally out of touch with what made me curious and excited.

I finally gave myself permission to leave the profession without a plan. I was burnt out and needed rest. Instead of rushing to one yoga class a week in the evening, I was able to go to classes during the day, and stay for the meditation. I also signed up for a creative writing class, and a painting class (my first art show is next month!). Allowing myself the space to explore, without a goal or plan, was exactly what I needed. I entered a yoga teacher training program and looked into all forms of wellness through a new lens.

I realized I could apply so many of the concepts I was teaching my yoga students (compassion, non-judgement, self-study, letting go, non-harm) to personal finance. I became a Certified Money Coach with the Money Coaching Institute, and started my Mindful Money Coaching practice. I help clients identify and understand the root of their emotions to heal their relationship with money. For many people, their net-worth and their self-worth are entangled. This breeds shame, fear, and a scarcity mind-set. Approaching financial coaching from a holistic perspective allows me to help clients create lasting change in their financial lives. In addition to my work with individuals, I also provide workshops to groups. My workshops aim to break the money taboo and create community. It is my belief that together we can lift each other up and learn to live a financial life with less stress and more ease.

My field is quite new, and it can be hard to grow a business in an industry most people don’t know much about. It has required a lot of trial and error, and putting myself out there when I didn’t feel ready. What pushes me forward is knowing how much our world needs financial healing. I want to do my part to help.

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?
A few of my favorite local restaurants in Stamford, CT are Olio, Layla’s falafel and Coalhouse Pizza. I also love a chocolate dipped in chocolate cone from Dairy queen. My order there hasn’t changed since the age of 3.

I have said my last meal would be an everything bagel with lox. I love Lenny’s bagels in Greenwich, CT. In the warmer months I grab a bagel and iced coffee there and head to the beach. Even when its cooler out, Greenwich Point Beach is a wonderful place to go for a walk or a run. On a clear day you can see the New York City skyline.

I would also go to the Bronx Botanical Gardens. They have something beautiful to enjoy in every season. For the holidays they have a train show, which is super fun. They re-create New York architecture using bark, leaves, and other natural materials, with scale model trains and trolleys running through the displays.

I’d take a Vinyasa hot class or two at Kaia yoga. They have studios all over Fairfield County, with experienced teachers, unique sequencing and a fun playlist.

I am a sucker for a spa day. I have been going to Noelles for decades, for a massages, a facial or a scrub. Whatever you are in the mood for, they have it.

I would take a stroll up and down Greenwich Avenue. There are some small art galleries, my favorite bakery St Moritz, and lots of unique stores and yummy restaurants.

I love watching movies and the theater experience. The Avon theater in Stamford, CT is historically preserved and frequently offers moderated dialogues and panel discussions with filmmakers, actors and other subject experts after screenings.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband, Steve Marcello for his encouragement, and unwavering support. He has always believed in my dreams and been my partner in making them a reality. My parents, for their dedication to giving me every opportunity within their capabilities, especially my education. My friend and business mentor Vlad Gyster, for his advice, honesty and the generosity of his time. And my accountability partner and fellow female entrepreneur Marni Blank.

Website: https://tammyshweiger.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneycoachtammy/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-shweiger-cpa-ryt-certified-money-coach-cmc-%C2%AE-b4998727/

Image Credits
Michael Simonetti