Meet Mae Yang | Founder & CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mae Yang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mae, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My journey into entrepreneurship began about a decade ago. Initially, I followed the conventional path; college, a common major, landing a job, and starting a family. But even after achieving these milestones, I realized something crucial. Working for someone else meant constantly seeking approval, asking for permission for time off, and hoping for recognition in the form of pay raises. I craved autonomy and the chance to channel my creativity into something meaningful. As I progressed in my career, I encountered barriers as a woman and a minority. The glass ceiling felt so real. I yearned to break free from these limitations and turn my passion, experience, and vision into a sustainable business. Financial independence became a driving force; I was tired of living paycheck to paycheck and having others determine my worth. Despite initial fear, I persisted. My background in government and public service, coupled with a diverse skill set, naturally led me to owning my own business.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m the Founder and CEO of MEG Financial Wellness, a Certified Financial Education Instructor, and a proud member of the Financial Speaker Association. My journey has been shaped by a diverse background in both the public and private sectors, spanning 13 years in public services 9 years as a small business owner.

Growing up in Colorado, I learned the value of financial independence early on. Having supported myself since the age of fifteen, I’ve always placed a premium on hard work and wealth building. My personal philosophy revolves around the idea of reaching back to support those who are following behind you, giving more than you take.

One of my proudest achievements is my co-authors book, “Journey to Now: Stories of Healing, Self-Discovery, and Transformation.” Not only does it share empowering narrative, but 100% of the Kindle version proceeds support the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women, promoting leadership, girl power, and college readiness in underfunded communities.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I wear many hats, balancing family life as a mother of five and a spouse while running my business and maintaining a full-time job. My commitment to giving back to the community is evident in my volunteer work, teaching financial literacy to underserved groups such as participants at The Reentry Initiative (TRI) and middle school students at the I Have A Dream Foundation of Boulder County. With TRI, I also offered the fundamental resources needed to kickstart a small business. Additionally, as the only Hmong-speaking Certified Medicare Consultant in the nation, I’ve been able to make a significant impact within my own community by addressing their healthcare needs. Beyond simply providing consultations and assistance with applications, my work extends to supporting them with their public benefits programs and social service’s needs, all at no cost. This holistic approach ensures that individuals receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique circumstances, empowering them to navigate the complex healthcare landscape with confidence and ease.

Due to the pandemic, I also initiated a private Facebook group aimed at fostering a supportive community of financially empowered women. Recognizing the need for connection and support during challenging times, this group provides a platform for women to share knowledge, resources, and encouragement on their financial journeys.

Furthermore, I played a pivotal role as one of the founding members of the Virtual Connection in 2022, a chapter of Business Network International (BNI). This business networking and referral organization have flourished since its inception, providing valuable opportunities for members to expand their network and grow their businesses.

My background in public service, coupled with experience in government and business, has led me into the realm of Economic Development. In this capacity, I am tasked with developing and implementing programs and services focused on business development, retention, attraction, expansion, and entrepreneurship. Through these initiatives, I strive to create a thriving environment conducive to economic growth and prosperity for all.

Through my experiences, I’ve come to understand the importance of compassion in public service and the power of building a supportive community. I’ve learned that in business, collaboration trumps competition, and authenticity breeds loyalty. MEG Financial Wellness is more than just a business; it’s a service-in-box, dedicated to helping individuals maximize their financial potential for long-term prosperity and well-being.

In essence, my journey has taught me that passion, compassion, and community are the keys to success. By giving back and staying true to my values, I’ve been able to create a brand that resonates with others and makes a positive impact on their financial lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a week-long trip showing my best friend around, I’d start with the stunning natural beauty of the mountains. We’d kick things off in Colorado Springs, exploring iconic spots like Garden of the Gods for awe-inspiring rock formations and breathtaking views. After soaking in the scenery, we’d head up to Breckenridge and Keystone for some mountain adventures. Whether it’s skiing in the winter or hiking and mountain biking in the summer, there’s no shortage of outdoor fun in these areas.

I enjoy Downtown Brighton Main Street, where I’d introduce my friend to the vibrant local scene. We’d dine at cozy family-owned restaurants, sip artisanal coffee at charming cafes, and perhaps indulge in some pampering at a local spa. The mix of boutiques would provide ample opportunities for shopping, with unique finds for both women and children.

Of course, no trip to Colorado would be complete without a relaxing soak in the hot springs. We’d spend a day unwinding in the natural mineral waters, surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains. Throughout the week, I’d make sure to sprinkle in visits to other local gems, like farmers markets and live music venues, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the community.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my spouse, Vong Lee. Getting married at 19 and starting a family while still in college presented numerous challenges, but from the very beginning, my spouse has been the cornerstone of my journey. He has been my rock, my confident, my biggest supporter, and my partner in every sense of the word. His unwavering belief in me, even during moments of self-doubt, has been truly inspiring. Though he may not always express it in words, his actions speak volumes. His patience while I conduct business, his trust when I travel, and his commitment to our family have been instrumental in shaping who I am and what I’ve been able to accomplish. He’s played an integral role in my success story, grounding our family and keeping our home steady through the ups and downs of my entrepreneurial journey.

Website: https://www.megfinancialwellness.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maeyangmegfinancialwellness

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maeyang.MEGFinancialWellness