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Discover the transformative path that led to multiple successful ventures, driven by passion, determination, and a commitment to empowering others.

In the captivating tapestry of Ambrea’ Lacy’s life, every chapter tells a story of resilience, determination, and unyielding passion. From the carefree days of childhood adventures to the challenges faced as a young mother and entrepreneur, Ambrea’ has navigated life’s twists and turns with unwavering resolve. The journey, marked by entrepreneurship and community impact, is a testament to the transformative power of dreams and the importance of mentorship. Each hurdle surmounted, each lesson learned, has shaped Ambrea’ into the inspiring individual she is today. Her story is a beacon of hope, reminding us all that with determination and belief in oneself, anything is possible.

It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story? How did you get to where you are today?

My journey to where I am today has been a remarkable and transformative one. As an only child, I shared a special bond with my father during my formative years. Surprisingly, in my childhood, I wasn’t the girly girl I may appear to be now. Instead, I was quite the tomboy, relishing activities like fishing and riding 4-wheelers. My father and I often found joy in building things and working with our hands, which instilled in me a strong sense of craftsmanship.

Throughout my school years, I gravitated towards leadership roles and embraced extracurricular activities such as choir, student council, and band, where I expressed my creativity and leadership abilities. Math was a subject I excelled in effortlessly, while geography posed more of a challenge. My social circle was extensive, and I cherished outings to the movies with friends.

High school brought about a new chapter as I enthusiastically joined the dance team and assumed the roles of student council president and class secretary. Although I never pursued sports due to a lack of athleticism, my passion for leadership and community involvement continued to grow.

College was a turning point, marked by uncertainty about my academic path. At the tender age of 18, I became a mother, facing unique challenges that demanded resilience and determination. Undeterred, I pursued my education, earning an associate’s degree two years later, followed by a bachelor’s degree and eventually a master’s degree in business.

The road to where I am today was not always clear-cut. While working towards my bachelor’s degree, I gained valuable retail experience, including a stint at Victoria’s Secret. However, a pivotal moment arrived during a challenging Christmas season when I contemplated quitting. A heartfelt call to my father changed the course of my life. It was during that conversation that I realized my entrepreneurial aspirations.

I shared my dreams with my father and embarked on my entrepreneurial journey with a mobile tax preparation business. Since those early days, I’ve expanded my ventures into multiple businesses alongside my tax preparation venture. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of assisting numerous aspiring entrepreneurs in achieving their own goals.

In essence, my journey is a testament to the transformative power of determination, resilience, and a strong support system. It serves as a reminder that success often emerges from unexpected places, and the pursuit of entrepreneurship can lead to remarkable and fulfilling paths.

I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?

Achieving success in the entrepreneurial journey has been far from a smooth ride. Like many entrepreneurs, I view challenges as opportunities for growth and development. Over a decade ago, when I entered the tax industry, it was primarily dominated by men. This lack of diversity and representation motivated me to carve my niche and succeed in the field. One of the significant challenges I’ve faced is the intense demands of the tax season. It’s a short but incredibly demanding period, where I often find myself separated from my family due to the workload’s intensity. As a single mother, I’ve had to make sacrifices to manage my responsibilities both in business and at home. In the initial stages, I had to tackle the complexities of tax laws, involving extensive research and grappling with tax information that could be overwhelming. The intricacies of tax language, including credit law, deductions, and regulations, presented a steep learning curve. Moreover, understanding the paramount importance of keeping the business in compliance with ever-changing tax regulations added to the journey’s challenges. These obstacles, though daunting at times, have been instrumental in shaping me into a resilient and resourceful entrepreneur. They’ve equipped me to face any hurdle that comes my way and have ultimately contributed to my success in the industry. 

Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition? 

I specialize in tax preparation, tax planning and strategies, tax debt resolution, and entrepreneurship, and there are a few compelling reasons why you should consider working with me over the competition. First and foremost, my journey from a small mobile tax preparation business to a thriving 7-figure tax firm demonstrates my deep expertise in the field. With over a decade of experience and recognition for generating over $1M in revenue within just 12 months, I bring a wealth of knowledge and proven success to the table. Furthermore, my commitment to empowering entrepreneurs is at the core of my work. Through iTax Institute, I have personally mentored over 400 entrepreneurs, helping them start and grow successful tax preparation firms. This dedication to mentorship and education sets me apart from others in the industry. My involvement in community service and advocacy for financial literacy shows my commitment to giving back and making a positive impact on the community. I’m not just focused on business success but also on uplifting and educating those around me. In addition to my professional accomplishments, my personal qualities, including fearlessness, astuteness, and tenacity, reflect my dedication to excellence in both life and business. I believe in the power of networking and cultural exploration, which further enriches my ability to connect with diverse audiences. So, if you’re looking for a seasoned tax professional and mentor who not only excels in the financial industry but also actively contributes to the community and values personal growth, then I believe I’m the ideal choice to help you achieve your financial goals. 

What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?

My best piece of advice for readers aspiring to find success in their lives is this: Embrace your journey, stay committed to your goals, and never underestimate the power of education and mentorship. As demonstrated by my own journey, success often starts as a side hustle or a small endeavor. It’s essential to embrace every step of that journey, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties. Remember that success’s normal to evolve and flourish over time. Commitment is key. Consistently work towards your goals, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Keep your vision alive, adapt when necessary, and persevere. Education and mentorship are invaluable. Seek knowledge in your chosen field and never stop learning. Additionally, find mentors or role models who can guide you through the ups and downs of your journey. The insights and wisdom they share can be transformative. Lastly, remember the importance of giving back to your community and supporting causes that resonate with you. Success becomes even more meaningful when it positively impacts others. In summary, embrace your journey, stay committed, seek education and mentorship, and always remember the value of giving back. These principles have guided me on my own path to success, and I believe they can empower others to achieve their goals as well. 

Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?

Success, to me, is a multifaceted concept that extends beyond financial achievements. It encompasses personal fulfillment, continuous growth, and positively impacting the world around me. First and foremost, success means pursuing my passions and living a life aligned with my values. It’s about waking up every day with a sense of purpose and enthusiasm for what I do. Success is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about enjoying the journey and constantly evolving. Success also involves contributing to the success of others. As an entrepreneur, I find great fulfillment in mentoring and empowering fellow entrepreneurs through iTax Institute. Seeing others achieve their dreams and goals is a significant part of my definition of success. Furthermore, success is about financial stability and independence, which allows me to enjoy life, provide for my family, and support causes I’m passionate about.

What’s next for you?

As for what’s next, my journey is an ongoing one. I plan to continue expanding the reach and impact of iTax Solutions and iTax Institute, helping even more entrepreneurs succeed in their businesses. Additionally, I aim to explore new personal and professional horizons and continue my commitment to community service and financial literacy education. Ultimately, success is a dynamic and ever-evolving pursuit. It’s not a destination but a continuous journey filled with learning, growth, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. 

Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?

Follow me Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn at iTax Institute and iTax Solutions. 

 

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Ambrea’ Lacy