Sometimes the most powerful transformations start with a simple question: “Remember who you wanted to be?” In this episode of Finding the Upside, I sit down with ONE TOUGH CHICK, Tara Gilvar, founder of B.I.G (Believe, Inspire, Grow), a global women’s empowerment organization that started in her living room with one email and a bumper sticker.
Tara shares her personal journey from political campaigns and advertising boardrooms to suburban motherhood, where she wrestled with identity, purpose, and the economic realities so many women face when choosing between career and childcare. What began as a quest to reconnect with her own ambition quickly grew into a powerful movement that has touched over 14,000 women across the globe.
We dive deep into how B.I.G helps women reclaim their voice, rediscover their purpose, and launch businesses, dreams, and legacies—often from a place of uncertainty or loss. Tara opens up about the real-life stories of women who found not just connection and confidence, but healing, courage, and even new life missions through this powerful sisterhood.
This conversation is about more than empowering women. It’s about systemic challenges, the brilliance sidelined by outdated structures in our country, and the cultural shift required to make space for women to fully thrive. From overcoming tragedy to inspiring policy change, Tara’s shares stories that illustrate how grassroots leadership and authentic community can change lives—one woman at a time.
Tune in for an honest, uplifting, and deeply inspiring conversation that will spark your own sense of possibility and remind you: there is power in gathering, in giving, and in remembering who you were always meant to be.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode…
[2:09] How Tara Went From Politics to Leading a Global Network
[12:53] The Bumper Sticker That Created B.I.G.
[22:44] The Brilliance That Sits On The Sidelines
[28:45] B.I.G.’s Mission is THIS
[35:35] HOW You Can Connect with Tara
[46:16] As Many People As You Impact, They Are Also Impacting Others
Episode Show Notes
Tara Gilvar | Instagram
Tara Gilvar | Facebook
Tara Gilvar | LinkedIn
B.I.G. Believe Inspire Grow | Website
REVIVE & THRIVE 2025 – Get Ready to Transform!
Join us this June 6th and 7th at the Archer Hotel in Florham Park for another life-changing event. 2-days of transformation, connection, and empowerment.
TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE! Grab your seat at https://mariadr.com/event
B.I.G. members get a special discount! Use code BIG30 at checkout to save.
Not a member? When you attend, you’ll also receive a 10% off code to join B.I.G. — a community that supports women entrepreneurs and professionals every step of the way.
Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram
Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook
Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn
Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website
Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube
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