Shayne Gabriel Provides Founders With Financial Direction

Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:

I’m the founder of Tallyz, a financial services firm built around the belief that behind every number is a story of growth, struggle, and potential. As a mother, wife, and lover of people in business, my passion for business has always been rooted in helping others succeed. My journey started with a desire to empower business owners to feel confident in their financial strategies. I offer services that help them grow, navigate challenges, and reach new milestones. I’ve always believed that solid financial foundations can unlock endless possibilities, and that’s exactly what I strive to provide for my clients.

Who are your customers?

Driven entrepreneurs and businesses at various stages of growth—whether it’s a non-profit just starting out or an established company navigating complex financial landscapes. I work with everyone from real estate investors, marketing agencies, product-based businesses, to seasonal RV resorts. What they all have in common is a desire for clear financial direction, strategic planning, and a trusted partner who’s invested in their success.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

Before launching Tallyz, I worked as a financial controller, navigating multiple industries and managing financials for businesses with complex needs. As a teen and throughout college, I worked for small business owners whom I deeply admired and looked up to, and that experience shaped my passion for entrepreneurship. I loved solving intricate problems and helping companies create solid financial infrastructures. My background gave me the tools to understand not only the numbers but the strategies needed to support growth. Over time, I realized that I could offer these insights to more businesses by branching out on my own.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I had been freelancing for a while as a side hustle, and with every new client, I realized how much I loved the work. There was something incredibly fulfilling about helping businesses thrive and feeling like a partner in their success. After balancing multiple roles, I knew I wanted to go full-time, build something meaningful, and have more control over the kinds of projects I took on. It was a mix of passion and seeing an opportunity to help more people that gave me the final push.

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

No, I didn’t always see entrepreneurship on my horizon. It’s funny how life takes you on unexpected paths. I enjoyed working with teams and in structured environments, but over time, I realized the power of creating something from the ground up. Once I saw the impact I could have on my clients by working independently, I knew this was the right direction for me.

Take us back to when you first launched your business; what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

My marketing strategy was initially all about relationships. I focused on word of mouth, referrals, and building a strong reputation with the clients I already had. I used platforms and personal networks to spread the word. It didn’t take off as quickly as I hoped, and I definitely faced some quiet periods. But looking back, it was those moments that gave me time to reflect, refine my approach, and prepare for when the business really started to grow.

What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way so far and what have you learned from it?

One of the biggest challenges was learning how to navigate the balance between scaling up and maintaining the quality of service. As demand grew, I needed to make sure that every client felt just as valued as when I first started. I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries, building a strong team, and trusting others to help carry the load while staying true to my vision.

What accomplishment are the most proud of to date in your business?

I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients. Helping a business owner go from feeling overwhelmed to confident in their financial strategy is the ultimate reward. One specific win that stands out was waiving over $15,000 in late fees and penalties for a client who hadn’t filed taxes in five years. It wasn’t just about the numbers—it was about giving them a fresh start.

Do you have any recent wins from the last year that you'd like to celebrate with our community?

This past year, I took a big step by rebranding my company and going full-time with Tallyz. It was a leap of faith, but I’ve been able to grow my client base.

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

Over the next few years, I plan to expand my services, particularly in financial advisory and tax resolution, while building a team of experts who share my passion for client success. Ultimately, I see Tallyz becoming a go-to firm for entrepreneurs who want a dedicated, personalized approach to financial management, scaling their businesses while feeling fully supported every step of the way.

What is your top productivity tip? 

My top productivity tip is planning ahead with flexibility in mind. I start each day with a prioritized list of tasks and goals, but I allow room for adjustments as things shift. This balance keeps me focused while still being adaptable. I also set aside uninterrupted time blocks to dive deep into complex tasks without distractions. Oh, and I never underestimate the power of a good calendar system!

On the flip side, how do you avoid burnout?

To avoid burnout, I’ve learned to be intentional about setting boundaries. It’s important to know when to step back and recharge, whether that’s spending time with family, getting outside, or simply taking a breather. I also make sure I’m delegating tasks to my team so I don’t feel overwhelmed by trying to do it all myself. Regularly checking in with myself to recognize when I need rest or a reset is key.

What is your approach to work-life balance / integration?

My approach to work-life balance is integration—especially as a mother and wife. I’ve found that blending my personal and professional life works better for me than trying to strictly separate them. I prioritize what matters most in each moment, whether that’s family or business, and give myself grace when things overlap. Flexibility is important, and so is setting clear priorities to ensure neither side gets neglected.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you started your Entreprenista journey?

I wish I had known how powerful building a strong network would be for my business. It’s not just about having clients but about fostering relationships that bring support, collaboration, and new opportunities. I’ve come to realize that surrounding myself with like-minded entrepreneurs has been one of the best resources for growth—both personally and professionally.

When hiring, what is your go-to interview question?

My go-to interview question is, “Can you describe a time when you faced a significant challenge at work and how you overcame it?” This question gives me insight into a candidate’s problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to think creatively under pressure. It’s also a great way to assess if they have a proactive approach to their work.

What is your favorite business tool or solution and why?

My favorite business tool is Google Calendar. It’s essential for keeping my days structured and making sure I’m prioritizing the right tasks. I use it to manage not only my meetings and deadlines but also personal events, so I can maintain a healthy balance between work and family life. I love how it integrates with other apps, sends reminders, and lets me schedule time blocks for deep work, ensuring I stay productive and focused. It’s the ultimate tool for staying organized while juggling multiple responsibilities!

What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?

My advice is to start before you’re ready. Don’t wait for the perfect time or perfect conditions because they don’t exist. Learn as you go, lean into your network for support, and trust yourself to figure it out. Every mistake is a learning opportunity, and every success is a building block for the next. You’ve got this!

Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today!

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