Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.
Nichole Thompson
I began my career as a traditional hairstylist, but life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After stepping away from the industry for five years to focus on my recovery, I returned knowing I wanted my work to have a deeper purpose. I initially pursued becoming a Redken Artist, to help other hairstylists refine their craft. Read more>>
Alli Ryan Winter
I grew up in Houston, where my love for theatre began at a very young age. From the moment I stepped on stage, I knew performing was what I wanted to do. Read more>>
Alan Macdonald
I had a very different childhood, being born and brought up in Malawi, Central Africa. It was a fantastic place for a child to grow up; days were filled with imaginative play, as there was no TV. Read more>>
Chase Smith
A few years ago, it all began with renting the Cold Sparks machines for an Entertainers’ Battle event with Houston vs Dallas. I gave the illusion of being a fireman and performed a mixed version of the song “Fireman” by the well known artist Lil Wayne. Read more>>
Armourie.
Everything I do begins with giving glory to God (Yahweh) and Yeshua. I truly believe every gift, opportunity, and vision I’ve been able to operate in has been from Him. My story, my career, and my existence has been a reflection of His guidance every step of the way. For starters, I’m a proud Houston native, born and raised. Read more>>
Christopher Thornton
Christopher Thornton, professionally known as ChrisTheFR, is more than an artist—he’s a builder of culture, a veteran, a producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and visionary determined to create opportunities where few exist. Born from years of resilience, Christopher’s journey has never followed the traditional music industry path. Read more>>
Roberta Westbrook
I grew up always knowing that I would work with animals in some capacity. My grandparents had a farm in Elgin, Texas and during the summers, my siblings and I loved nothing more than roaming around the property feeding the chickens, watching the pigs roll around in the mud, and admiring Papa as he worked with his favorite horse named ‘Red’. Read more>>
Janet Pope
If you had asked me 20 years ago what my life would look like, I would’ve painted a pretty different picture than the life I’m currently enjoying. I may have expressed the desire to live in a major city, but I hadn’t fallen in love with Houston’s diversity and foodie culture yet… Read more>>
Martina Goudeau
My Journey in Dermatology & Aesthetics My journey in healthcare began in 2002 when I obtained my Medical Assistant certification. I knew early on that I wanted a career where I could help others, but I had no idea at the time that I would eventually discover such a deep passion for dermatology, aesthetics, and the science of skin. Read more>>
Christian Hockless
Trying to understand who I was and where I belonged, who were actually friends and who was temporary — it had me believing I was a lot of things that I wasn’t and grew up always questioning what I was here to do. I felt I didn’t fit in until I realized that in itself was a gift. Read more>>
Mindy Cochran
Hi! I am Mindy Cochran. I hold certifications in group fitness, personal training, nutrition coaching, and life coaching. I am a practitioner, teacher, and performer of the aerial arts, as well as a former health columnist for Montana Woman Magazine. I am honored to hold the titles of first-place soloist in Montana’s inaugural pole competition and finalist for Montana’s Got Talent (2025). Read more>>
Whitney Rae’ N/A
Hello I am Whitney Rae’ The Great Goddess Queen. I started my business Whitney Rae Hill, LLC in 2021 while in my cancer healing phase. After a bad separation which led to a divorce which led to living homeless in my car all while my mom passed away I felt overwhelmed with life. Read more>>
Ivan Latimore
Well I come from a talented family that’s always been in the Entertainment business especially music. I always wanted to be on the business side of things which launched me into this: Founder & Executive Director Seven Management June 2017 – Present Provide executive management and strategic consulting for artists, athletes, entrepreneurs, and entertainment professionals. Read more>>
Roberto & Sharon Melgar
Rosh & Co. Specialty Coffee is a Family owned- started with a dream, to create more than great coffee for friends —we truly believe in meaningful connections. Read more>>
Michelle Matthews
Getting to where I am today was a long journey. I began my career in data management, which involved literally inserting a floppy disk into a computer’s floppy drive, downloading a file, and understanding how it worked at a basic level. Twenty years later, that curiosity led to an exploration of how ceramic glazes could be altered to create various effects. Read more>>
Joe Lopez
Joe Lopez/el Gallista, My Art and Identity Art first found me through the hands of my Tio Basilio. By trade, he was a full-time house painter, but in his precious free hours, he would take a simple peach seed and carve intricate, tiny monkeys and little creatures out of it. What captivated me most, though, were the carvings. Read more>>
Ashley Hope
Sure! I was born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, to immigrant parents. Mother was Italian born in Italy, and my father was a Russian Jewish South African. After my mother dies of cancer– I am 13– we move to Wisconsin. I discover how amazing the American Heartland is and how incredioble the American high school experience is! Read more>>
Ja’Wonna Barnes
Life experiences and challenges have played a significant role in leading me to where I am today, but one experience in particular planted the seed for the work I now do. At the age of nine, I unexpectedly lost my mother. After her passing, I moved in with my aunt and her two sons and transitioned to a new school. Read more>>
Xavier Eythell
I’m Zavey, a Houston-based rapper, recording artist, songwriter, and music creator. I’m building my career through hip-hop, creative expression, and a commitment to developing my own sound. My journey is rooted in ambition, independence, and the drive to make music that reflects who I am. I started writing poems at age 10 and that translated into actual songwriting. Read more>>
Precious Richardson
I actually started in the travel industry long before I started in the wedding planning industry. I studied Travel and Tourism in 1991 and was trained on SABRE, but like a lot of people, my career took a few turns. I spent years in management and executive administrative roles before eventually becoming a stay-at-home mom. Read more>>
Tahj Steen
As for the beginnings of my career, I began recording at 16 years old towards my senior year but writing music a few years prior to that around 12/13. Read more>>
Gabrielle/Conlee Broussard/Herrera Fry
Given how much we love our work today, it might surprise you to learn that we both had to find our way back to Veterinary Medicine. For me (Dr. Conlee Herrera Fry), growing up on a small ranch in Hockley, Texas, surrounded by horses, cattle, dogs, and pigs, caring for animals wasn’t just a career path—it was a way of life. My wife, Dr. Read more>>
Ladyy Polo
My journey with music started long before I ever considered myself an artist. I was born and raised in Rochester, New York.At just 12 years old, I began writing poetry. Poetry gave me a safe space to express emotions, experiences, and thoughts that I didn’t always know how to say out loud. Music has always been apart of my family. Read more>>
Jaemin Lee
Why is there no Chicken and Rice in Boston?! After a night out in New York City, we were introduced to the wonder of eating Chicken and Rice outside with our friends. We became instant addicts! Since that night, each visit to New York City had to be accompanied by a meal of Chicken and Rice, trying different combinations of different vendors. Read more>>
Mary Lindecamp
I started out by sewing dresses professionally and for about 60 hours a week at the age of 14. Soon after, I moved to Houston and was looking for a job as seamstress because I could sew. This led me to the upholstery business. I worked for other upholstery companies for about 15 years before I started Elegant Upholstery in 2011. Read more>>
Kristi Miller
I practiced Interior Design and Architecture for many years, and finally realized I was tired of working for other people and corporate America. I started planning and researching on how to start a small business and what brands I would need to reach out too, that I knew were brands that I would want to carry. Read more>>
Dr. Pranav Mody
My story is rooted right here in Houston. I’m a native Houstonian, born and raised, and proud to have grown up in the same city I now have the opportunity to serve. Read more>>
Jacqueline Priestly
My story really started in the middle of real life. I spent 15 years in a corporate career while also building a life with my husband and raising our three wonderfully wild kids. On paper, I had so much of what I had worked for. But behind the scenes, I was burning out. Read more>>
Angelo Greco
I started dancing when I was 12 and a half in my hometown school, Danzarte, where I fell in love with classical ballet thanks to my teacher, Emanuela Mussini. At fourteen, I left home and family to study at Il Balletto di Castelfranco Veneto, where I learned the dedication ballet requires. Read more>>
Ash Agnite
I’m a multi-disciplined artist, chef, baker, yoga therapist, and mama living in Houston, TX. I founded/organized the Little Free Art Locker in July of 2025. I’ve been juggling different things through freelancing design, non-profit work, and chef-ing projects as well as art related community projects for around 14 years. Read more>>
Brandi Myasia
My journey into custom skate building and community organizing grew directly out of a deep belief in the power of movement, creativity, and accessible public spaces. For years, my work centered on education and human development. Holding a Master’s in Educational Psychology, I spent much of my career within school systems and workforce development programs, focused on how people learn, grow, and build confidence. Read more>>
Kendrick Thomas
I’ve always believed that where you start doesn’t have to determine where you finish. I’m originally from Shreveport, Louisiana, and my journey has taken me from the classroom to school leadership, entrepreneurship, media, authorship, and community work—but education has always been at the center of it. I started my career in education in 2001. Read more>>
Keiara Kearns
My story with The Give Society Social Club is deeply personal. My sister and I both spent time in foster care, so supporting foster youth has always meant more to us than simply giving back it is connected to our own story. Read more>>
Kristy Bruns
For most of my career, my work has centered around one question: How do we help people build the skills and confidence they need to create an independent and happy life? I am currently a high school special education teacher, but my experience working with individuals with disabilities began long before this chapter of my career. Read more>>
B. Austin
Born in Ticonderoga, NY, & now in Glens Falls, NY where I started performing in middle school & high school choruses, I grew up studying the greats— the remarkable performances of the King of Pop Michael Jackson, channeling the grit of Eminem & 50 Cent. Read more>>
Alexys Goodman
I grew up as a competitive dancer, which of course requires stage makeup. I spent my free time perfecting my makeup for the stage, and as I got older it became a hobby. I officially launched my business, Beats By Hollywood, in 2022. Read more>>
Self Burrell
Born and raised in Houston, Self’s story is one of persistence, creativity, and chasing a dream through every corner of the city. His journey began performing music/dance at pep rallies at Worthing High School before hosting events across local schools and immersing himself in Houston’s thriving poetry scene at The Secret Word. Read more>>
Katie Fleming
I have a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and worked in the landscape architecture profession for nearly 15 years. I really enjoyed the creativity and problem-solving that came with landscape architecture, but over time I started feeling like I wanted to do something different. Read more>>
Kimberly Powell
My journey has been one of resilience, reinvention, and learning that sometimes the hardest seasons of our lives are preparing us for the purpose we never saw coming. For many years, I built a career that allowed me to wear many different hats, including education, human resources, payroll, administration, insurance, and the corporate world. Read more>>
Christopher Sanders
My name is Christopher Sanders, most know me as Coach Bam. I believe that my journey reflects a strong commitment to personal growth, community engagement and mentorship. I am the owner and CEO of Train With F.O.C.U.S. (Faith, Obedience, Community, Unity, Success). Read more>>
Souvik Dasgupta
My story has always been rooted in hospitality, entrepreneurship, and a curiosity about how great experiences can be made better through thoughtful systems and technology. My global experience spanning more than 15 years as a bar and beverage consultant has given me the opportunity to work closely with hospitality businesses, operators, and venues around the world. Read more>>
Kathryn Hinnant
I’ve always been creative, but I’ve also always been interested in the business behind an idea — how you take something in your head and actually make something out of it. I’m a Houston native and graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in Visualization, which gave me a foundation in design, branding, photography, and visual storytelling. Read more>>
Brandon Pete
I was born on January 3, 1990 in Lake Charles, LA and moved to Houston, TX at the age of one. I stayed on the Southwest side until the age of six while attending Saint Agnes Christian Academy in South Acres neighborhood. I completed all of my grade school years in Katy/Cypress, TX. Read more>>
Kiaya Riley
I’ve always been interested in fashion and the way I present myself. I’ve always wanted to look ‘presentable’ in any way possible. I used to create T-shirt designs in class during high school. How my brand actually came about was in 2021, when I figured I didn’t want to go back to college at the moment, and I wanted to pursue something of my own. Read more>>
Giuseppe Taurino
My nonna was probably my first creative writing teacher, although neither of us would have called her that. She was the greatest storyteller I’ve ever known. Read more>>
Roidy Cruz
Camila’s Sweets & Bites was born around January 2017. I started planning my daughter’s 1st birthday party, and I wanted to rent a Cotton Candy machine. When I looked the prices, and how you can rent them for a few hours and make money, I started researching all about Cotton Candy. We started selling in a home garage, to family, friends and neighbors. Read more>>
Kamri Steen
Since the beginning of social media, I’ve always had an interest in creating videos and connecting with others through a digital platform. Read more>>
Lisa Jackson
My story didn’t begin with a festival. It began with entrepreneurship, service, and creating spaces where people felt seen. I built my career in Houston’s beauty industry as a hair-weaving specialist and salon owner. Over time, the spiritual work that had always been part of my life became the center of what I felt called to do. Read more>>
Kathryn Hinnant
From a personal standpoint, my story has been much less about following a perfectly planned path and much more about becoming more comfortable with who I am. I grew up in Houston and have always been creative, curious, independent, and probably a little more particular than most. I was the kid who cared about how things looked, how they felt, and the story behind them. Read more>>
Will Everett
I’m a product of a single mother born in the south side of Chicago. Since I was a child my life has been a full throttle journey full of highs, lows, and everything in between. Looking back over my life thus far I recognize that I’ve had quite the story. Read more>>
Cherille “Chae Shanti” Simpson-Riles
I’ve been braiding hair since I was about 10 years old. Like a lot of little girls, I started by playing with my Barbie dolls, but hair became personal for me pretty early on. I didn’t like the way my own hair was being combed when I was younger, and after being teased about it, I decided to learn how to braid my own hair. Read more>>
Alexandra Dovzak
I have been dancing since I had the ability to walk. I started in ballet, joined a Slavic Folk Dance group called Uzori, where I met several of the girls I dance with today. Over the years I picked up several other genres of dance, specifically Broadway jazz as I started my Musical Theatre career and in 2021 I started belly dancing professionally. Read more>>
