People of Central: Maddy Welch

Story by: Samantha Bitterman

As she nears graduation in December 2024, Maddy Welch is ready to embark on a unique career path. A Central Michigan University senior majoring in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts with a minor in Multimedia Design, Maddy’s journey has been anything but linear.

“I kind of freaked out and chose this major randomly,” Maddy admits, “I like art, I like film, and it felt like a good fit. But over the years, I just didn’t feel like I was finding my niche.”

While she’s grateful for the skills she’s gained through her major, it wasn’t until she dove into tarot that she felt a true sense of purpose. Maddy’s introduction to tarot in 2019, through a serendipitous reading at a Renaissance Fair, sparked what would become her passion.

“I had $20 left and wanted to try one reading,” she says. “I was curious to see what it was all about, and then my cousin offered to give me my first reading. I was blown away.”

Inspired, Maddy purchased her own deck and began a journey of self-discovery that has since evolved into intuitive tarot reading. “At first, it was just learning the meanings of the cards,” she recalls. “But over the past two years, I’ve realized my spiritual gifts more and can read intuitively now. I love tapping into people’s energies and trying to help where I can.”

With plans to become a full-time intuitive tarot reader and creative entrepreneur, Maddy is already balancing her spiritual practice with a budding business. “I already kind of have my own business, but my long-term goal is to expand it. I want to do more readings for people and eventually have my own business,” she says.

She hopes to work for a few years in a field related to her major while gradually growing her tarot business. Maddy also plans to create a website and potentially offer her readings at local businesses. For her, tarot is both a form of self-reflection and a way to connect deeply with others. “People think spirituality is all love and light,” she explains. “But it’s also about diving into the darkest and lightest parts of yourself. It’s beautiful but can be terrifying, too.”

In addition to her work with tarot, Maddy is a dedicated knitter who specializes in crafting scarves. “I’m a scarf maker,” she laughs, “and I make good quality, thick scarves—knee to knee, or even longer.”

She credits her grandmother’s neighbor with teaching her to knit when she was in fourth grade. “I kept getting frustrated and pulling it all out to start over,” she recalls, “but I finally stuck with it. It’s a great reminder of patience and going with the flow, something I still try to apply today.” Inspired by the long scarves of Doctor Who, Maddy enjoys gifting her creations, most recently making a scarf for her old roommate Jacqueline. She plans to delve further into knitting and other creative projects after graduation, balancing her entrepreneurial aspirations with her personal passions.

Maddy’s spiritual side extends to a fascination with rocks and crystals, which she uses as tools for grounding and self-reflection.

“I love rocks because they remind me of the cycle of life and the importance of going with the flow,” she shares. “My favorite is obsidian for protection and rhodonite, which I call my ‘therapy rock’ because it’s all about self-healing and self-discovery.”

Her practice in tarot and spirituality has also taught her the importance of respecting others’ boundaries. “When I first started, I was so eager to practice that I’d offer readings to people who maybe weren’t ready for one. I’ve since learned that people need to come to these things on their own.”

To avoid burnout in her business, Maddy spaces out her craftwork and tarot readings. “I love working hard and getting stuff done, but I also want to enjoy it while I do it. Last summer, I sold crafts at fairs and made so many candles and bracelets that it became overwhelming.”

Now, she approaches her business differently, saying, “Whenever I do readings or sell my items at local events, it’s so rewarding. It’s like I get to show off my hard work in a way that feels authentic to me.”

As Maddy looks toward life after graduation, she’s filled with both excitement and a sense of purpose. Her journey has been one of self-discovery and resilience, guiding her to a path that feels truly authentic. Balancing creativity with a mindful approach to business, she hopes to inspire others to pursue lives that reflect their unique passions and identities.

For Maddy, success is measured, not just by accomplishments, but by the connections she makes and the positive impact she leaves on others. Her story is a reminder that the most fulfilling paths are often the ones we carve ourselves.

If you are interested in a tarot reading or just supporting Maddy, you can follow her on Instagram @pinkrosereadings! Maddy also does readings at Phillips located at 3000 Vine St, Lansing, MI, 48912.

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