Tanya is a dynamic force—a sociologist with a focus on culture, wellness, and travel, who has seamlessly blended her corporate expertise with a deeply intuitive approach to helping women unlock their full potential. As an Accounts and Partnerships Leader and Personal Strategist for Women, she thrives on empowering visionaries, entrepreneurs, and creatives to embrace their unique paths.
What sets Tanya apart is her sensitivity. This quality allows her to connect deeply with others, balancing the mystical and intangible with practical strategies that inspire action. Her journey from navigating the fast-paced corporate worlds of NYC, LA, and San Francisco to building a life centered on freedom, creativity, and connection is nothing short of inspiring. Tanya’s story is a testament to the courage it takes to redefine success on one’s own terms—and the joy of helping others do the same.
In this conversation, Tanya opens up about her pivotal moments, the meaning of freedom, and the rituals that keep her grounded. She shares her vision for nurturing creativity and empowerment, while reminding us all of the beauty in curiosity, connection, and courage.
T. You spent years working in the corporate world in vibrant cities like NYC, LA, and San Francisco. Was there a specific turning point—perhaps during times of burnout—that made you realise it was time for a change? What gave you the courage to take that leap and start building something of your own?
T. I was experiencing an all time high when it came to anxiety. At the time I was working in advertising and I just couldn’t imagine spending the rest of my life in an office. I saw women in the early days of social media and wellness coaching building beautiful lives that seemed like freedom and I felt inspired to do the same. My main priority was to have flexibility to spend time with family and to be myself. Things didn’t seem like they were aligning and it became clear that it was time to take my first big leap. At that moment, leaving NY to complete a yoga teacher training in Costa Rica and then moving to LA seemed nearly impossible. But looking back it was the beginning of my inner journey. The decision to follow my heart and face my biggest fears was a defining moment in who I would become.
T. What does freedom mean to you personally, and how do you hope to inspire that sense of freedom in the women you work with?
T. I think there are different types of freedom. There is the internal feeling of freedom which is knowing myself, having a process for expressing my ideas and moving my visions to life. And then there is the very tangible experience of freedom which especially for women is correlated with safety. I hope to inspire women to find this sense of freedom for themselves and to find true empowerment in their lives, work, and creations.
T. The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and often challenging. How do you navigate setbacks or moments of doubt along the way, and what keeps you motivated to continue this journey?
T. For me, being in the mindset of curiosity and self-discovery gives me motivation to continue the journey. Once I started exploring the deeper layers, I had a red or blue pill moment and realised there was no turning back. Setbacks and doubt are a very natural part of the human experience and creative process. After learning that, I do my best to understand where I am in that process and honor what is asking for my attention. I’m often easing away from expectations, which is sometimes easier said than done. It’s always a work in progress. I love the quote “no one ever tells you that bravery feels like fear.” I think that’s so true. I’ve found that movement and taking action is the only way to get through discomfort and fear.
T. Inspiration is such a personal thing and can come from many different places. What or who inspires you the most?
T. Connection. When I’m feeling connected and present, so many different things, people, places inspire me. Nature is my biggest source of inspiration. And certain artists and visionaries who really think outside the norm and express from the heart. Also travelling to new places because it’s an instant way to shift perspective.
T. Routines and habits can play a big role in fueling creativity and staying balanced. Do you have any daily or weekly routines that help you stay grounded and inspired, especially with the work you do?
T. For balance, I’m constantly coming back to my values of family, friends, and nature. Remembering to keep it simple and appreciate all that I have. Creating space is huge for fueling my creativity. I make moments of doing absolutely nothing, tuning into the clouds in the sky or a squirrel on a tree, the shadows from a building. That gives me instant energy and inspiration.
In terms of habits, I try to take deep breaths, do some sort of physical movement whether it’s a walk to Chapultepec Park or a yoga class.
T. Looking ahead, how do you see your work evolving over the next few years? Are there any new goals or directions you’re excited to explore as you continue helping women cultivate their creativity and freedom?
T. I’m always excited about collaborating with other women that share similar visions.I really feel that coming together as women sparks so much creativity and inspiration. Visions are accelerated when we support each other. I’ve seen it in cohorts I’ve led and in my personal female friendships. Over the next few years I’ll be building a global community around art, culture and global discussions and launching annual retreats. I’m also looking at developing corporate programs that support the growing mental health crises. I’ve seen a lot of women (including my mom) suffer their entire career from toxic corporate environments. Not being able to be yourself, be seen, be heard and create boundaries to refuel are just some of the issues at hand.
T. If you could share one mantra or piece of advice with someone who is feeling disconnected from their purpose, what would it be?
T. There’s a saying I love by Ai Weiwei On Living “People talk about the purpose of life, but I don’t think my life has any innate purpose, nor does anyone else’s life. Living is about experiencing the world, fulfilling your curiosities and expressing yourself. Everyone has a different approach to living and to expression. But regardless of method, we all strive to attain the same goal: individual freedom, independent thinking, and individual consciousness. This is the path to a healthy society.”
Instagram: tanyakwindman
Website: www.tanyawindman.com
