Houston’s Most Inspiring Stories

Every neighborhood in Houston has its own vibe, style, culture and history, but what consistently amazes us is not what differentiates the various neighborhoods but rather what they all have in common.  From the Fourth Ward to Sugar Land (and everywhere in between) we’ve been blown away by how many creative and talented people call Houston home.  Check out some of the inspiring stories we’ve discovered throughout the city.

Holly Cron

My husband, Brandon, and I moved to the Houston area in 2012, and since then, we’ve been committed to building strong roots in our community. From serving in our church youth group and worship team to volunteering on the HOA board, and even at a local animal shelter. Giving back has always been part of who we are. Read more>>

Ace (wife) PJ ( Husband) McGowen

During the time of COVID- 19 our business did take decline in client engagement due to the catastrophic circumstances of social distancing and the shock of financial responsibility along with the health protocols. Although it was a hard time facing unprecedented challenges, our business was able to meet the challenge head on and we were actually able to build a intricate part of our tutoring side of our business; offering virtual educational support services worldwide. Read more>>

Amol Desai

I moved to the US in 2003 to pursue my Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and worked in diverse engineering industries after graduation. As the world was experiencing the Great Recession of 2008-2009, those events again stirred my interest in learning deeply about finance and I decided to get my MBA with finance concentration from Rice University here in Houston. Read more>>

Jared Broussard

The second chapter is the chapter I am in currently today. For a number of years I had often seen a client or three outside of my full-time job when it worked with my schedule, but in March of 2024 I finally realized that I needed to make the jump into private practice. Which has led to me running my private practice, Thumos.Life Mindfulness & Psychotherapy full time. I have absolutely loved every second of it since. Having the opportunity to build a private practice that feels true to who I am at my core, and also lets me work with clients I truly love getting the chance to work with each moment. Read more>>

Julie Trumbo

Early in life, I realized that I am deeply empathetic and I enjoy helping others through difficult situations. As someone who has had adverse and traumatic experiences at a young age and throughout life, I have been drawn to help people survive, heal, and grow. Read more>>

Elizabeth Cobb

Growing up, I could see myself as either a broadcast journalist or a psychotherapist. After high school, I chose journalism and went to school out of state. After one year away, I returned home to regroup from a very unhealthy relationship. Part of my healing process was my own therapy. Read more>>

Justin Perry

I think every therapist starts out trying to find healing for themselves. When I discovered family systems theory everything clicked. I originally was pursuing the Catholic priesthood, but God had other plans. Now, as a therapist, I have made relationships central to my work because God is love. This fact is what clicked for me and why I am so passionate about what I do. Read more>>

Mo Hashem

Flat Fee Landlord was founded in 2009, in the wake of the housing crash, inspired by a deeply personal journey of resilience and vision. The company’s roots trace back to the family of the founder, Mo Hashem, who immigrated from Afghanistan to America with very little, seeking safety and opportunity. Read more>>

Natasha Elliott

My story isn’t one many can say they’ve overcome. I grew up in a family living in poverty, surrounded by a mindset I didn’t quite share. As a teenager, I faced challenges that led me down the wrong path — I picked up addictions, surrounded myself with the wrong people, and put myself in situations that could have ended very differently. Read more>>

Estefanie Mendez

My story began almost two years ago, when I became a mom for the first time. When my daughter Isabella was born, I found myself constantly taking photos of her every little milestone, every expression, every new thing she did. I didn’t want to forget a single moment. That’s where Sweet Bella Photography was born. Read more>>

Jarvis Sam

From a young age, I’ve always been passionate about leadership and helping others reach their full potential. In 2017, I began creating leadership courses and blogging—sharing insights on growth, resilience, and people development. That same year, I landed my first role in Human Resources. Read more>>

Deana Ismajli

My story really starts with family. While working as a branch manager in banking, I found myself raising my nephew and two nieces. That season of life taught me resilience, balance, and the importance of leading with heart. A few years later, I made the leap into the automotive industry as a finance manager at Lexus of Clear Lake with Lindsay Casas. Read more>>

Seressa Nickerson

I started my journey in ministry over two decades ago, fueled by a deep passion to see lives transformed through the love of Christ. My path hasn’t been without challenges — I’ve walked through child abuse, PTSD, and seasons of feeling unseen. But those very experiences gave me compassion for others and a determination to help women, children, and communities heal and thrive. Read more>>

Krissy Sexton

In 2008, after an unsuccessful last minute search around our hometown for a white hair bow and oh so trendy at the time crochet headband for my daughter’s 1st birthday photoshoot; I landed at hobby lobby to purchase a spool of ribbon and barrettes to make my own bow. Read more>>

David Sanders

When I was six my parents divorced and split the siblings, my dad got my older brother and me, while my mother took our two sisters and a half brother with her. We lived in Southern California at the time, my mother moved to Seattle Washington. My father took the divorce extremely hard and basically spent all of his time in a local bar. Read more>>

Sue Bard

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the arts. Like many people, I dabbled here and there, but eventually found the opportunity to return to college and complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts. During that time, I joined the board of a small museum, where I was fortunate to be mentored by several remarkable individuals.  Read more>>

Kris Remo

I’m an actor – I specialize in voiceover, but I’m also an award-winning theater and film actor. So I guess you can say I talk the talk and walk the walk. I started in VO in 2019; theater and film in 2022. Since I was a toddler, I knew I lived to perform. Read more>>

Lisa Waddell

I chose photography because it chose me. Since we found each other almost 20 years ago it continues to be the most fulfilling way for me to express myself creatively and it feeds my soul. In my practice I am continually inspired by the Japanese aesthetic of simple, subtle and unobtrusive beauty. Read more>>

Elizabeth Roehl

After being laid off from a job as an analyst at Enron Corporation early in my career in December 2001, I began substitute teaching and fell in love with teaching elementary aged kids. I was an elementary special education teacher and school counselor in public schools for 20 years. Read more>>

Joseph A. Schiller

My writing journey began with a creative writing class in the 7th grade. For much of my life I wrote short stories. Nothing was ever shared or made public. Not even with family. Almost fourteen years ago, however, I began work on what was initially a short story that quickly morphed into a long format fantasy novel. Read more>>

MIde Lawani

My journey with The Sweet Layers Factory started really simply, as a mom baking for my kids and family. Back in 2018, I was just making birthday cakes at home, never imagining it would turn into something bigger. Read more>>

Elizabeth Stevens

When I first became a notary public in 1994, I didn’t imagine it would someday blossom into a full business. At the time, it was a simple need at work. Papers came across my desk requiring a notary, and I was the one trusted to step in. Soon after, it stretched beyond the office walls. Church members would ask for help. Family needed forms notarized. Read more>>

Jess Russi

I can’t remember an exact moment when it all started. I think everything in my life has led to where I am today, and it started before I can even remember. I was a multi-disciplinary designer before I knew the term. A very curious person by nature. I was that kid in school: the one making the class posters, decorations, and even costumes. Read more>>

Adam Johnson

I’ve always been drawn to creating. When I was 10, I found my parents’ camcorder and started making little movies. By middle school I was animating in Flash, and in high school I was making short films, designing in Photoshop, and growing a YouTube channel to over 10,000 subscribers. That early love of creativity set the tone for everything I’ve done since. Read more>>

DiMon (Dyme) Henderson

My journey really started with a love for creativity and making people feel celebrated. I’ve always been the type of person who pays attention to the details — whether it was organizing family gatherings, creating handmade favors, or bringing a vision to life, I found joy in turning simple ideas into unforgettable experiences. Read more>>

Carla Poli

Originally born and raised in Jamaica. I visited a couple who had quickly became not just friends, but family over the years who introduced me to ballroom dancing. Over a period of time and visits, the opportunity to become a Ballroom instructor presented itself. After almost 2 years of doing so, I was a two Time US champion within that Ballroom franchise circuit. Read more>>

Jeff Murphy

I first discovered my passion for accounting and finance while in high school, and that decision set me on a path that began at PwC in Houston in 2001 after graduating from Trinity University in San Antonio. Read more>>

David Flores

I was born and raised in the Houston area. I attended public schools in the Pasadena Independent School District, then I attended the University of Houston and South Texas College of Law. I was licensed as a Texas attorney in 2002 and began my career at a law firm here in Houston. Read more>>

Shannon Bell

I’ve been designing and creating jewelry for more than 27 years, but S. Bell Designs officially came to life in 2016. My love for accessories and creating started long before that-in the 90s, my first pieces were made with hemp, silver, and beads. Back then, I simply wanted jewelry I couldn’t find anywhere else: real, simple, minimalist designs that wouldn’t tarnish. Read more>>

Teresa Rice

I was born and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, in a close-knit family where both ministry and hard work in the secular world shaped who I am today. From the time I was a little girl, singing was my passion, and God allowed me the honor of sharing the stage with many accredited artists. Read more>>

Zenni Pham

I’ve been doing nails for more than 15 years, starting out just like many others — working hard every day and learning along the way. Over time, I realized I wanted to create something different: a salon that feels safe, relaxing, and healthy for everyone. That’s why I opened Douce Mains Nails Lounge here in Cypress. Read more>>

Ariel Beltran

Just like anyone else, I’ve walked through this experience called life. Needless to say, with that, the mountains and valleys I’ve encountered have shaped how I see the world, how I relate to others, and ultimately, how I’ve learned to see others through the lens of compassion. Read more>>

Kelli Redd

I’m Kelli Redd, Licensed Professional Counselor. Born and raised in Houston! I’m a mom to three young kids and have always worked with children and families. I started my career as a foster home developer and adoption supervisor. I then became a teacher in Pasadena, and then a school counselor in Hardin, Texas. Read more>>

Ricardo Gattas-Moras

I’m a proud Hispanic business owner and a father, and those two parts of who I am drive everything I do. I started my career in the telecommunications industry, spending over 17 years in different roles from retail sales to marketing leadership. Read more>>

Angelia Guinara

Twenty-five years of my professional life was dedicated to preventative health, I mainly focused on women, children and senior health. When I saw the opportunity for Gameday Men’s Health in early 2024, it didn’t take me long to like their concept – changing life, one man at a time, through hormone health optimization. I’m passionate in helping men regain their confidence and feeling their best. Read more>>

Sanjukta Rajput

I was born in India and moved to Canada at the age of three, growing up at the crossroads of two very different worlds. On one side, I was immersed in the science-driven culture of the West; on the other, I stayed rooted in the intuition, traditions, and healing wisdom of the East. Read more>>

Karen Lewis

I had been laid off from the oil field at roughly the same time my father was diagnosed with a terminal illness. After discussing his wishes with my husband, we decided it was more important for me to be there in his last months than continue a full time job. Read more>>

Jessica Totten

I was born in Florida and raised in Oklahoma. I spent my whole life in Oklahoma, but I wanted something more, a life by the ocean. In 2016, I packed up my family and moved to Galveston, Texas. I picked it because it was the closest beach that wasn’t too far from my family in Oklahoma. Read more>>

Stephanie Andrews

Steve and I dated a little bit in our twenties and met back up in our 50’s. Soon after, we put our lives together and decided to open 32 Below, Inc. I needed a new career and he wanted his own HVAC business very much. We will start our 7th year in January. Read more>>

Evy Knight

I started with a love of fashion and a thirst of creativity at an early age. In 1998, I created my very first line of customized pacifiers that I sold at popup events before breaking into high end boutiques in Houston area. Read more>>

Donny Velazquez

My dad started the business in 1971, and it was a small Mom and Pop Bodyshop. I came into the business in 2001 and took it over. We slowly grew from 2 employees to now 25 employees. We went from 5,000 sq ft of workspace to 20,000 sq ft of workspace. Read more>>

Mater Ashu

So much has happened in my life that has groomed me into the woman I am today. I am a servant of God with the prophetic calling. My journey started when I was only 8 years old. I remember following my parents to some spiritual retreats and I would fast 6-6 with them and have no food or water for 12 hours. Read more>>

Rotem Asaf

My name is Rotem Asaf, and I am 35 years old. When I was a child, my parents and I shared a dream that came to life inside the walls of our family restaurant. The kitchen was always alive with the clatter of pans, the comforting aroma of spices, and the joy of people gathering around food. Read more>>

Sherif Labib

My journey has always been about unlocking potential in people, in organizations, and in myself. Read more>>

Avery Skarke

I have three passions in life; film, fashion and the culinary arts. My journey with these started young but it is only recently that I have been able to build on these full time. As a child I loved pretend play, movies, dressing up and cooking. I am now getting to pursue all 3 of these! Read more>>

Carli B Webb

I grew up in southwest Louisiana, the oldest of four, and from an early age I learned how to carry responsibility and live up to expectations. Like many Southern women, I followed the path that seemed “right”—marriage, career, family, faith, and service. On the outside, I had checked all the boxes. But inside, I felt like I was living a life that wasn’t truly mine. Read more>>

Ashley Howard

Throughout my life, I have consistently demonstrated a profound interest in numbers, finance, budgeting, and related fields. Consequently, it was no surprise to those who are familiar with me that I decided to pursue a professional career in tax preparation, tax planning, and bookkeeping approximately five years ago. Read more>>

Dr. LaCoñia Nelson

Wow! Well…my journey officially began on Valentine’s Day 2000, but my whole life has been by the grace and favor of God. Valentine’s Day 2000 was my first official day of being a full-time contract Special Education Teacher. I had recently graduated from college in December 1999, and after realizing that a BA degree in Psychology would yield no sustainable income, I decided to make substitute teaching into a full-time career. In my mind, it seems like the rest is history. Read more>>

Kelsei Luksa

I started my acting journey in 2022 a year after my first heart break, I was completely lost in life I had thought I knew where I would be but my life took me elsewhere. I struggle with daily anxiety and from time to time depression since I was at a really low point I started my first trial of therapy, my therapist at the time recommend I find things that make me happy and try new hobbies.  Read more>>