Ever feel like you’re supposed to “stay in your lane?” Tara Mugford Wilson never got the memo. 

From corporate consulting to running a unionized mechanical business in a male-dominated industry, to buying (and rebranding) a women’s fashion and home store just before the pandemic — Tara proves that your second act (and third!) can be as bold as you dare to make it.

In this conversation, Tara shares what it means to trust your gut, build respect where none is freely given, and embrace opportunity, even when the timing makes no sense on paper.

If you’ve ever felt restless, boxed in, or scared to start again, this episode is your reminder: you can change lanes and still stay on course.

In This Episode You’ll Learn:

• How to earn respect in male-dominated spaces without losing your authenticity
• Why being the only woman in the room can be your superpower
• The myth of “having it all” — and what balance really looks like
• How to make bold pivots without abandoning stability
• The power of trusting your gut and following what lights you up

Resources & Mentions:

Helen’s Collective — Tara’s women’s fashion and home boutique located in Kingston, Pa. Power Engineering Corporation — The family-run mechanical contracting business Tara helps lead Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg — insights for women navigating leadership and visibility

• “You can have it all. Just not all at once.” — Oprah Winfrey  

Join the Spark Me Community:

If Tara’s story lit a spark in you, share this episode with a friend who’s craving a new chapter. Follow @sparkmepodcast on Instagram and join our community of women embracing reinvention, gratitude, and courage in their second act.

 Because your next act might just be your best one!