Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below – many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.
Darian Marcelous
Yes, that’s called integrity. I feel everyone has it, but it’s not always used. There’s been numerous of times where I’ve seen “extra” problems on a job site and just take care of it because I know it’s the right thing to do or it’s to function properly with what I’m working on. Read more>>
Racheal Davenport
While it is certainly encouraging and uplifting to receive praise and hear that I’m doing well, the deeper truth for me is when I genuinely put forth my best effort, the greatest recognition comes from within and from the blessings I believe God grants me. Read more>>
Devon Witchet
Yes because my inner self will feel so good that I was able to try or do it. Read more>>
K Do
It’s hard but I can. If social media is gone, I would still very much like to continue photographing people. I just want to learn more. Art is limitless. Art is subjective. Some photos I give it my everything but I don’t get as much likes or views. It doesn’t matter in the end, cause I’m proud of the work I have done Read more>>
Kaela Cherise
This question is so deep, wow. The truth? I don’t know. Validation definitely feels good. Without a reaction to what I’m doing my best on, it would be hard to know if it’s even good or if I’m just being biased. I lean on my community for validation…I can’t lie. I’m always texting my mom, sister, or best friends looking for the green light. Read more>>
Elena Farias
Absolutely. That question hits close to home. In childcare, it’s easy for the day-to-day work to go unnoticed—after all, parents are busy and rely on us so they can do their jobs. But to me, this is more than just a job. These are the foundational years when children are learning how to crawl, walk, talk, and interact with the world. Read more>>
Chris Dieter
Yes, its never been about getting praise as nice as it may be. I just like living and experiencing the animals Read more>>
Demetrius Hines
I think one of the common things that can break a bond is the lack of communication. When people stop talking openly, and honestly we start to misunderstand one another and the resentment and assumptions fill the void. It leads to a feeling of being unheard and emotionally disconnected. Read more>>
Courtney Harris
In my experience, what breaks the bonds between people is a lack of trust—whether that’s through poor communication, not following through, or putting profits before people. In design, relationships are everything. Clients invite you into their homes, their businesses, and their vision, so if they can’t trust you, the bond is gone. Read more>>
Tosin Olaniyi
Bonds can be easily broken by trust, although It can takes years to rebuild and restore in relationships and business. When relationships are broken parties involve must be willing to be vulnerable, listen and respect each other, but most importantly their must be willingness to forgive and be open to trust again. Read more>>
herbb Borders
it depends if we are talking Platonic or Romantic.. In Romance Disconnection happens when emotional expression isn’t received or reflected — like when one partner doesn’t feel seen, felt, or responded to. Over time, unspoken needs, dismissiveness, or misattuned energy (especially during vulnerable moments) creates distance, even if love is still there. Read more>>
ADETOLA ADEYEMI
Bonds between people are broken by things like mistrust, poor communication, and unresolved conflict. They’re restored through vulnerability, forgiveness, empathy, and consistent effort to rebuild trust and connection. Read more>>
joshua pitts
I think there’s a misunderstanding not about our business but our industry. Its changed over the last 15 years and its the customer thats changed. They want answers now, they want responses now and they want their jobs to start now. The goliaths in our industry dont oblige to this and they are losing market share. Read more>>
Christa Mcduell Tubbs
A big misconception about my business is that professional photography is too expensive or out of reach. The truth is I’m actually very affordable. I’ve structured my pricing so that people can have access to high quality, meaningful photos without breaking the bank. I genuinely love what I do and that love shows in my work. Read more>>
Brenda Guy
As an entertainer, I love connecting with people and lifting their spirits through music—it truly feeds the soul. I perform both with a live band and as a solo vocalist using professional backing tracks. Read more>>
Chef Clinton ‘CJ’ Jackson
What I think is most understood about CJ’s Masterpiece is that we have such a large kitchen staff that The Exec. Chef (myself) really doesn’t cook anymore. Folks think i run around and just give orders. In fact i’m actually in the trenches with my team; heck even harder. Read more>>
Crystal Nwagwu
I think a lot of people misunderstand rage rooms as just a place for angry people. While that’s partly true, most of our customers actually come to have fun—whether it’s celebrating a milestone, trying something new, or doing a team-building activity. Read more>>
Rhonda Turner
The Rustic Brush is often seen as an activity to enjoy when you want to have fun and do something entertaining. And yes, we are fun—but there’s so much more to us than a good time. Crafting at The Rustic Brush isn’t just about a fun night out. Read more>>
Nina Spears
Thanks so much for having. It’s a true pleasure to connect! I think one of the biggest misunderstandings about my business is that I’m ‘just an influencer.’ That I’m someone who posts pregnancy and baby tips on social media and writes an article or two. Read more>>
Sparrowhawk Cosplay
When people think of cosplay they associate it with just playing dress up. Although, that is one aspect of it, it’s also so much more than that. In this industry you’re expexted to be a jack of all trades. You learn so many different techniques and skills. From wig styling, to 3d modeling, sewing, making armor and props or sometimes drafting your our own patterns. Read more>>
Christina Jenkins
People often assume we’re just another waxing studio—or that we only do one thing well. But Bare Necessities has always been rooted in something deeper: a genuine passion for customer service and an obsession with quality in everything we do. We’re esthetician-owned, which means we built this place from the treatment room up. Read more>>
Shawnti Refuge
They’ll think I was just a journal girl. They’ll see the books, the prompts, the workshops, and think I sold paper and pen to help people feel “inspired.” But what I really did—what my legacy actually is—is giving people permission to tell the truth. To break silence. To feel their feelings. To sit with their pain without shame. To heal. My work is about liberation. Read more>>
KiMaja Clay
I think what people may misunderstand about my legacy is the role I played in Houston’s nightlife industry. From being a waitress to becoming a lead and eventually a manager, I wasn’t just showing up for myself — I helped put a lot of people on. I’ve gotten countless people jobs, trained nearly close to 100, and shown them how to succeed in this business. Read more>>
IAMYOURLITTLEBROTHER
Not sure but probably how hard it is to stick with something and not give up when things aren’t panning out how you particularly want them to in that moment Read more>>
Temitope Tosanwunmi Samuel
People will probably misunderstand my no-nonsense approach to boundaries. I have learned that in order to protect my peace and my vision, I have to be firm especially when I feel disrespected. Some may say I became distant or cut them off without warning, but the truth is, I don’t tolerate fake support, envy disguised as friendship, or inconsistent presence. Read more>>
LaKisha Mosley
That being strong all the time is actually killing us. Literally. I don’t wear struggle like a badge anymore. I don’t believe burnout is a rite of passage to success. And I don’t believe you have to grind yourself into the ground just to prove you’re worthy of a seat at the table. That narrative is tired. The truth is I want ease. Read more>>
Daphine Jack
An essential truth that very few people agree with me on is that struggles and failures are just as valuable—if not more—than achievements. Many people see setbacks as obstacles to avoid or signs of weakness, but I believe they are necessary stepping stones for growth. To me, pain and disappointment often carry the deepest lessons, shaping our character in ways success never could. Read more>>
Kaylia Capri
Very few people agree with me on the fact that this era is built off of a large majority of inauthentic people who used to draw attention. I used to wonder why did older people always resent change so much, till I realized how certain changes actually impacted how we perceive the world around us. Read more>>
Patrick Moss
I am currently addressing health issues that has resulted in changes in my lifestyle. I have made tremendous progress over the past 6 months. I usually begin my day around 6:00 AM. I’ll start by tuning in to the local news and preparing to take my morning meds. Afterwards, I’ll decide if I’ll go for a walk or stretch and exercise at home. Read more>>
McKayla Miller
The last time I was interviewed, I was working part-time in Houston as a model. I’m still based in Houston, but my “normal” has changed a lot since then. These days, I’m a full-time prehealth graduate student and a part-time author. A typical day now includes attending classes, studying, writing, developing marketing campaigns for my books, and engaging with my readers through social media. Read more>>
Traci Duff
My days begin with intention—water, prayer, and meditation, followed by movement, whether a nice walk or weight training. From there, I step into a full day at the salon behind the chair at Traci Duff Hair curating beauty and thoughtfully listening to 10–12 discerning clients. Between appointments, I focus on my latest venture, Matchmaker Houston, a private bespoke service designed to connect extraordinary people. Read more>>
Cynthia Merisier
Everyday life for me is full, but meaningful. I’m a mom of two boys and a wife, so family comes first in the mornings. Then it’s off to my 9-to-5, and once that’s done, I switch gears and focus on building a tax office with my business partner. Read more>>
Jennifer Cleaver
A normal day for me is anything but ordinary—it’s a full, beautiful whirlwind. I start my mornings very early as a full-time veterinary dermatology technician, caring for pets with complex skin conditions and supporting their families through treatment plans. It’s deeply rewarding work that keeps me grounded in compassion and science. Read more>>
Marinda Turkson-Oladimeji
A typical day for me is busy, structured, and centered around balancing the many roles I hold. As a Licensed Childcare Administrator, business consultant, therapist, and owner of Greener Pastures RTC, my mornings usually begin early with phone calls, emails, and reviewing compliance documentation to ensure that every facility I oversee is aligned with state standards. Read more>>
Orhan Caliskanturk
Busy with creating new designs for the shows and for my store located at Painted Tree Boutiques, Cincho Ranch , Store number F9. Meantime taking care of my 14 year old son soccer trainings. Read more>>
Demetrius Joseph
A normal day starts off with me waking up 4:45 AM. I take this time to reflect on the days pass and say a prayer for the days coming up. I do a light workout and shower. Im normally at the door at 5:50.. Read more>>
Rosina Ng
Wake up around 8AM, stretch, and start with emails. I try to respond to my clients as soon as possible when my day starts at 10AM. I go to the gym and then make dinner. Read more>>
Dianna Wacasey
Without a doubt, my grandmother. She was such a powerful influence in my life, and her example still guides me today. She taught me strength, but also tenderness. She showed me how to live with honesty and integrity, and how to keep faith at the center of everything. Read more>>
Ashley Barnett
There are a handful of individuals who have contributed to who I am today. However, my relationship with my Mom has been one of the most impactful and cherished relationships in my life, especially as an adult. I feel there’s a different side you experience with your parent(s) as adults. Read more>>
Uma Valikodath
Motherhood has profoundly shaped how I see myself. It has taught me the art of prioritization—balancing countless responsibilities while still carving out space for my own mental and emotional well-being. Through this journey, I’ve learned to juggle multiple roles with patience, intentionality, and grace, reminding myself that taking care of myself is just as important as taking care of others. Read more>>https://voyagehouston.com/interview/story-lesson-highlights-with-uma-valikodath-of-houston-highlight
David Johnson
A teacher has a powerful role as both an educator and a role model with responsibilities that go beyond just delivering lessons, this relationship has molded me into a better person and instructor over the years. Read more>>
Taylor M. Hayden
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself is the one I have with God through Jesus Christ. It’s the foundation for how I navigate life, business, motherhood—everything. It’s taught me that my identity isn’t rooted in titles or achievements, but in purpose. Read more>>
Regan Adams
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I made the decision to end a fourteen year marriage. Not long after, my ex-husband passed away. That moment could have broken me completely, but instead it became the turning point of my life. Read more>>
Yazan Koudsi
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was the first time I traveled on my own. I remember stepping off the plane, realizing I had planned everything myself, and feeling this rush of independence. It was the moment I understood that I could create my own adventures, make my own choices, and truly shape my life—and that feeling has stayed with me ever since. Read more>>
Chelsey Zardes
My earliest moment of feeling powerful was back in elementary school. I’m from New Orleans, Louisiana. I went to a Catholic private school called St. Peter Claver. I would often sing for assemblies. I remember I was about six years old and was asked to sing. I sung “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong and the audience loved it. Read more>>
