Tammy Carter on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tammy Carter. Check out our conversation below.

Tammy, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes, I recently recieved an email from my school about the graduation process and what to expect in the transition from student to alumni. I have one class left then I will be done, I’m pursuing my Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Administration. I am also a first generation college graduate.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Yes, my name is Tammy Carter, I am from the Navajo Nation, currently I live in Northern Arizona. I have a home based business called Carter’s Sweets, I specialize in using indigenous ingredients in my baking such as blue corn, culinary ash and Navajo tea. These ingredients are a big part of who we are as Navajo. They’re more than ingredients in a recipe, there are prayers and songs associated with each ingredient. It is important to me that these ingredients and the knowledge is not forgotten.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I was raised mostly by my grandparents, their livelihood revolved around raising cattle. They did not have any running water or electricity so we hauled water and built fires for heating and cooking. As a child, I was always outside helping my grandpa. We would mend fences, build corrals, make firewood, tend cattle, plant corn, etc. It was a very self sufficient lifestyle. My grandpa always kept a calm demeanor, despite the hardships associated with living on the reservation. He never allowed life’s difficulties to make him bitter. He maintained an inner peace, which I now emulate for my children.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
I always say suffering and mistakes are two of the greatest teachers. Suffering definitely makes one more resilient, especially as a child. Life on the reservation is tough. My dad worked as a firefighter so he would be gone for weeks at a time. Those were the good times, despite not having much money my mom made ends meet. When my dad was home, the terror began, in the form of alcoholism and domestic abuse against my mother. We would take refuge at my grandparent’s, and various women’s shelters. I learned at an early age that when someone is abusive, they want to instill fear into their victim, so at a very young age, I promised myself to never show fear to anyone who wants to hurt me. To this day, I have kept that promise.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think one of the biggest lies the baking industry tells itself is to make a profit, they need to use more sugar and more artificial dyes. I disagree. Desserts can still be very enjoyable without loads of sugar and dyes.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace after praying, being at home with my kids and in nature. My faith is very important to me. I would not be where I am today without my faith in God.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Cartier_leigh
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlcarter-72a488235
• Facebook: Carter’s Sweets