We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way – we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.
Jen Kolb
After a long and winding road, I deeply believe I am finally doing what I was born to do. I have loved interiors for as long as I can remember, and not just the visual aspect but the feelings associated with specific spaces and places. I hope what I’m creating with my clients today will become the backdrop of their most cherished memories. Read more>>
Garrett Kirk
I’d say both. I’m naturally a wanderer—I like following curiosity wherever it leads—but I’ve also learned the value of staying organized so the wandering actually goes somewhere meaningful. Read more>>
Keisha Bussey
Absolutely. My journey has taught me that praise is a blessing, but it is not my fuel. Growing up as that little girl who loved to dance, write, and read, I didn’t do those things for applause—I did them because they were part of who God created me to be. Read more>>
Michel’le Baynard
What I’m being called to do now… something that may have felt intimidating before, is walk fully in my purpose. I’m here to create experiences and events that bring together like-minded and creative individuals from all walks of life. By collaborating with my dedicated team, I can engage the community, exchange ideas, offer and receive feedback, and grow through the process. Read more>>
Stephanie Waltman
When I think about what breaks the bonds between people, it often comes down to disconnection – feeling unseen, unheard, or misunderstood. Mental health struggles and suicide can deepen that divide, especially when stigma keeps people from reaching out or sharing their pain. What restores those bonds is just as powerful: connection, compassion, and reflection. Read more>>
Liz K. Seitz, LMSW-ACP, LMFT
Several things break the bonds between people. Primarily, it occurs when trust is broken and people no longer feel emotionally or physically safe in the other’s presence. The greatest way for those bonds to be restored is for people to accept responsibility for their actions and be willing to hold space for their partner’s pain long enough to truly understand it. Read more>>
Jackeline Rodriguez
My job has taught me lessons that success alone never could. Through stress, setbacks, and long days, I’ve learned patience, resilience, and empathy. The challenges showed me how to stay grounded under pressure and to find meaning even in the struggle. Every difficulty has shaped me into someone stronger, wiser, and more compassionate in what I do. Read more>>
Gifted Da FlameThrowa
You have to fail forward. Suffering is a gift when you have the proper perspective. Pain is a very exquisite teacher. It’s honest and welcoming. Read more>>
Lenworth Johnson
The first 90 minutes of my day start with gratitude. I take a moment to thank God for everything He’s allowed me to do every opportunity, every challenge, every blessing that’s shaped me. Then I feed my mind. I listen to an inspiring word from a business coach something that refocuses my energy and reminds me that mindset is everything. Read more>>
Alex Sanchez
Many people have a misconception about the number of planners in the event industry. While it may seem like there are too many, there’s actually plenty of love to go around. Each planner brings something unique, and it’s all about finding the one who fits your needs perfectly. Choosing a planner is similar to shopping for the right pair of shoes. Read more>>
Evelyn Munoz
A false label I’ve heard is that I expect too much, but that comes from my belief in giving my best to everything I do. I’ve worked hard for everything in my life, and I know what it takes to make things happen. Read more>>
Danny Stygion
I’m not sure, but I know you have to take risks to get to where you want in life, and fear often gets in the way of that. As I get older, I worry less about the outcome of taking risks. Things always seem to work out one way or another. Read more>>
Bobby Benjamin
Although I’ve faced many challenges in life, the two that impacted me the most were losing my job due to kidney surgery and learning to parent from separate households. Through the grace of God, I made a full recovery, earned my bachelor’s degree, and have been teaching 7th grade for over 12 years. I’m also proud to own and co-own several successful businesses. Read more>>
Doug Long
I have two hobbies outside of work, fishing and bowling. The ironic thing is, when I’m at work, I think about fishing and when I’m fishing, I think about work! When I’m bowling, I think about how frustrating it can be, but a near perfect game or two will keep you coming back! Read more>>
Kay Sarver
When I am in my studio creating art I would compare it to meditation. It’s a process that allows my inner child to come out and play, which feels deeply primal, a necessary connection that needs to be made in order to create something true to who I am. Read more>>
Jose Gomez
My head and my leggs, the pain what a feel some time makes me stop. I had an aneurysm in 2018, ( 8 years almost,) so, that really makes me stop, but at the same time it’s the reason whay i pursue my dream of connecting with more people through my artworks. Read more>>
Dylan Gordon
The first time I picked up a pencil, realizing that the possibilities were endless – in what one could draw or create, and how that could affect the world around you in such a profound way. Read more>>
Melvin Nelson
Going through my cancer journey has taught me so much. I was diagnosed in June of 2022, and ever since, it’s been a true journey of learning, strength, and growth. Navigating everything from treatment to recovery has given me a new outlook on life and a deeper appreciation for every moment. Read more>>
Ester Hernández
Integrity matters most to me. I really enjoy being around intelligent and energetic people, but integrity speaks volumes. It’s the part that doesn’t bend. Regardless of the circumstances, temptations, or challenges, integrity is a true manifestation of a person’s inner self. It cannot be faked. Integrity to me is priceless. Read more>>
Susan Casias
About a year and a half ago, I decided to go out on my own and develop my own team of reps. I let my previous business partner oppress me, and once I saw how this was my fault, I was empowered to become independent. Read more>>
Mariana Mosqueda
I experienced a profound sense of love six years ago when I welcomed my first child into the world. Despite feeling unprepared for motherhood following my mother’s passing nine years prior, I was confident in the love and support I would receive from my husband and children. This experience reaffirmed my belief in the unconditional love that family can provide. Read more>>
Alejandra Deras
Before I became a business owner or found my rhythm at the gym, I was just a recent college grad from Houston Baptist University; a girl with a camera, a mic, and a dream to make her mark in the sports world. Read more>>
