Moms Who Inspire: Tara Madison

From media personalities and print writers to leaders and travelers, Vermont is full of amazing women who truly inspire.  When we have the opportunity, we’re always thrilled to be able to interview some of those who help motivate us to be better moms, wives, and women.

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]Meet Tara Madison![/typography]

I was born and raised in Connecticut.  My father had a huge influence on my growing up.  He encouraged me to be myself.  He wanted me to fulfill every passion, live every dream.  While most people in my life knew I’d be some sort of an entertainer, I couldn’t quite figure out how I was going to make that happen.  I was EXTREMELY shy and far from popular. I did things though.  I joined the theater, the choir, the band, the ski club.  I was pretty good at that stuff, but frankly, I got through high school not knowing what I was going to be when I grew up.  Regardless, I always knew it was all going to fall into place for me . . some how.

It did, eventually.  Radio and I met in college – around the same time I started having children.  It was quite the challenge to be a mom and have a career in radio, so my love to entertain on the air was going to have to wait.  For many years, I placed a lot of focus in myself; trying to learn who I was, understand the people in my space, the Universe, and how it all comes together.  I needed to go through these life experiences, both good and bad, before I could truly help others in my community . . and ultimately become a better mother.

In my 20 years of radio, I’ve been in communities that need a voice of compassion and strength.  I’ve helped get much needed supplies to firefighters working the front lines of the largest wildfire in history . . I’ve traveled in parades to salute a championship college football (and basketball) team . . I’ve spoken to battered women . . I’ve counseled less fortunate children . . I’ve put a smile on your face.  I have seen first hand the power of radio and what just one person can do to make a difference.  

My role as a mother isn’t far from that as a radio personality, or community leader.  My 7 sons (5 of my own and 2 step-sons) range in age from 20 years to 4 months and it’s extremely important to me that I set a good example for them.  The life lesson starts early, which is why I continue the message that my father taught to me early on.  Always believe in yourself, be passionate, be good to other people, and know that YOU have the power to do great things.

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]1. What do you love most about Vermont and our community?[/typography]

The Vermont Pride!    Farm to table . . buy local .  Vermonters have an enormous amount of dedication to their community!

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]2. What do you love most about being a mom?[/typography]

I get great pleasure in watching my sons become their own person.  To witness their growth, the see their personalities take shape.  It’s so cool!

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]3. What do you love most about your job?[/typography]

The ability to touch people’s lives. I’ve lived it, honey.  I’ve been there and I’ve done that!   I can relate to so many different people from so many different walks of life.  My job isn’t just a job.  It’s my mission.  I was born to bring people together and spread joy and happiness.

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]4. Tell us about your work in the community. Why are you passionate about these organizations?[/typography]

The connections I make are remarkable.  I’ve met the most wonderful people, that I would not have met otherwise.  I’ve gained a large network of empowering women and men – all that want to make the world a better, safer, healthier place.

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]5. Has it been difficult to find a work/life balance as a mom and a professional?[/typography]

It was very difficult to find that balance between my career and being a mom.  Being a radio personality and community leader is a lifestyle.  There is nothing 9-5 about radio.  And likewise, there is nothing 9-5 about being a mom.  I think I have finally figured out how to be great at both!

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]6. If you could have a day entirely to yourself, what would you do?[/typography]

Meditate!  Every person needs to be in their own head for a period of time, every day.  I think I need a whole day like that!

[typography font=”Satisfy” size=”24″ size_format=”px”]7. What advice do you have for moms who are trying to balance working and being a mom?[/typography]

You sometimes need to let go of control and allow things to fall into place on their own. They always will.  Be the very best that you can and you will always win!