Hi friends!

Welcome to the very first edition of my newsletter - I’m so glad you are here.

Honestly, I never imagined I’d be writing my own newsletter or building a social media presence, but I’m discovering (or uncovering) a new facet of myself in the process - and having a lot more fun with it than I expected.

This space will likely evolve over time, but my hope is that it offers something thoughtful, useful, or inspiring. If anything resonates - or if there’s something you’d love to see more of - I’d love to hear from you. Just hit reply.

And if this was forwarded to you, welcome! Click here to receive the next edition directly to your inbox.

🧪Alchemy Notes

On pressing pause - and reclaiming what matters

For years, I did everything “right.” I worked hard. Took on more. Kept climbing. But instead of feeling proud or fulfilled, I felt stuck. Frustrated. Like I was being held back by invisible limits that had nothing to do with my ability - and everything to do with systems not built for women like me.

I knew I could do more. Be more. I just needed to find a path that would let me do it on my own terms.

As I started to untangle what that could look like, I found an online community called Mother Untitled that made me feel seen in a way I didn’t expect. And recently, the founder - Neha Ruch - released a book that landed right in the middle of everything I’ve been processing.

One particular quote has stayed with me:

“In your power pause, you can become more yourself than ever.”

And honestly? I have.

👉🏼Read the full post here.

📚The Alchemist’s Bookshelf

✨Read of the Month: The Power Pause by Neha Ruch

This one hit home. If you’re navigating motherhood, identity, and ambition - and especially if you are a parent who has wondered who you are outside of your job title - this book is for you. It helped me feel proud of the choices I’ve made and excited for what’s still to come.

More picks for wherever you are right now:

• For a laugh: Sorry I’m Late, I Didn’t Want to Come by Jessica Pan

• For a cry: A Heart That Works by Rob Delaney

• For escape: The Magicians by Lev Grossman

• For learning: Brain Food by Dr. Lisa Mosconi

• To challenge your perspective: Hope for Cynics by Jamil Zaki

I only recommend books I’ve read and loved. Some of these links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission - at no extra cost for you - if you choose to buy through them. It helps support this newsletter and keeps the good recommendations coming!

🫙Potion Shelf Pick

A favorite find that’s made life a little easier: Armoire Clothing Rental

I’ve often struggled with what to wear. I’ve tried other services but right now I’m loving being able to rotate pieces in and out of my wardrobe every month without the commitment (but I can buy anything I love).

Armoire is a women-owned clothing rental service that’s helped me feel more like myself in my wardrobe - especially during this chapter of reinvention and experimenting with what feels right. If you’ve been a little stuck in your closet, this might be the shift you need.

Try Armoire here - this is a referral link, which means you get a discount and I receive a little credit too. Win-win!

📣Let’s Stay Connected

I’m Tara, founder of Alchemy Advising—a boutique consulting practice helping small and mid-sized businesses strengthen their financial and operational foundations. With 20 years of experience in corporate strategy, finance, and operations, I now work with founders and business leaders to improve pricing, budgeting, and long-range planning so they can grow with confidence.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, I’d love for you to:

• Follow along on Instagram or LinkedIn for more insights, reads, and behind-the-scenes of Alchemy Advising.

• Forward this to a friend or colleague who might enjoy it too.

• Reply and let me know what you’d love to see more of - this space is evolving and I’d love your input.