Meet Tamra Gaines

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tamra Gaines. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tamra below.

Tamra, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?

I wasn’t a confident child—I often walked with my head down, unsure of my actions or words. But two pivotal experiences shaped my confidence and helped me grow into the person I am today.

The first was in high school when I started working in an office environment. I quickly grasped instructions, and the positive feedback I received from my colleagues was transformative. Their compliments and encouragement motivated me to exceed expectations, and I became a top performer. That recognition fueled my belief in my abilities and showed me how capable I could be when given the opportunity.

The second was my time as a consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics. Direct selling was about so much more than makeup; it was a masterclass in stepping out of my comfort zone, connecting with people, and working collaboratively. The environment fostered personal growth and peer support, which instilled in me the courage to take on challenges and achieve shared goals.

These experiences taught me that confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s built over time through positive reinforcement, meaningful connections, and small successes that lead to greater achievements. They also inspired me to write The Pillars of Confidence, a guide that empowers others to build their own confidence by focusing on core values, inner voice, and outer brand. Today, I speak to audiences across industries about the power of confidence, influence, and leadership. Sharing my journey has been deeply rewarding, and I hope it encourages others to see their own potential.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

After a 30-year career in event planning and learning and development, I ventured out on my own as a certified professional coach, speaker, and consultant. I believe every leader, regardless of their level, can benefit from a trusted partner in their professional development—and that’s where I come in. Whether I’m speaking about becoming a confident leader or building a robust leadership pipeline for succession planning, my focus remains the same: empowering individuals, elevating confidence, and fostering growth for greater impact.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, I’ve always been tenacious and determined. Whether navigating challenges or pursuing goals, I don’t shy away from hard work or setbacks. I’m also deeply driven by a genuine care for others—understanding their needs and finding ways to support them. This quality likely stems from my early career in insurance. While paying premiums isn’t something anyone enjoys, I saw firsthand how critical the right coverage can be during life’s unexpected moments—offering peace of mind after a theft, auto accident, or home loss.

Another key quality is my proactive nature. Throughout my career, I’ve consistently raised my hand for stretch assignments or taken on tasks without being asked. This willingness to step up for the good of the organization has been recognized and appreciated, not only by employers but also by the many organizations I’ve volunteered for. It’s about more than completing tasks—it’s about being a team player and finding ways to contribute meaningfully to a shared mission.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I host Tamra Talks, a podcast that creates space for people to share their projects, passions, and the influences that have shaped their lives. So far, I’ve had the privilege of interviewing individuals from diverse backgrounds, including professionals, organic gardeners, musicians, military veterans, and experts in nutrition. What I love most is uncovering the common thread that connects us all—none of us walk this journey alone. We’ve all been inspired, guided, or uplifted by someone at some point in our lives.

Currently available on YouTube, Tamra Talks will soon transition to a podcast platform to reach even more listeners. Each episode is a casual, engaging conversation where my guests feel comfortable sharing their stories. I make it simple by providing questions in advance and creating an environment that allows people to shine. Every interview offers valuable insights and inspiration for our growing audience.

I’d love to hear your story! Check out Tamra Talks on YouTube at @TamraGaines and email me if you’re interested in being interviewed. Everyone has a story worth sharing—let’s tell yours together.

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