We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Steve Kader | Talent Buyer

I think it is important to always go back to what originally drew you to your career. For me it was a part of my DNA f/my grandfather/dad & music/the arts was always an integral part of our lives. The passion has to always be there. If it is gone or you are going through the motions it is time to give up. Read more>>

Astri Castillo | Future$

the first Risk i took was Moving to California 10 yrs ago. The second biggest risk was getting into the Industry that im in, not many are really able to make it in the trading world. Risk Takers are Creators Read more>>

Chelsea Evans | Retail Business Owner

Opening a business is always an exciting yet challenging endeavor. However, expanding a business brings a whole new set of risks and considerations. This was certainly true for JT Trading Post (JTTP), which, in December 2023, opened a 3,000 sq. ft. store in the heart of Joshua Tree, California. Expanding JTTP in April 2024 has required us to carefully navigate a range of opportunities and challenges. Read more>>

Edna Ferrer | Owner of EdnaMode Fitness

I am excited to introduce you to EdnaMode Fitness, a community dedicated to connecting women who share similar fitness goals. My mission is to foster a supportive environment where women can encourage, motivate and inspire each otehr to reach new heights. My ultimate goal is to empower women to feel confident, strong and proud of their accomplishments. I believe that by supporting one another, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness. Read more>>

Tristan Jose | Cofounder & CEO

The Guamanian community in southern California inspires us to push the envelope by highlighting traditional recipes with fun takes. Since moving to San Diego in 2015, we quickly realized the strength and presence of the Guam community. From weekly bbq’s to random run ins at a cafe, everywhere we went, there was a chance to reminisce of our time spent back home. Our goal is to help bring these memories to life by curating an island-inspired menu that rotates items frequently. We aim to share the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of Guam with the San Diego commmunity to create a unique fusion of food and heritage. Read more>>

Gina Aliotti | Fitness Trainer, Lifestyle Coach and Nutritional Specialist

Several key habits have been instrumental in my success. The biggest umbrella habit is having a scheduled routine. Having structure has allowed me to feel grounded, especially as my days have gotten busier and more complex. A structured routine provides consistency and helps me stay focused and productive. It also allows me to balance my personal and professional goals effectively. Another critical habit is having non-negotiables that I never waver on—these are my pillars. For me, that includes daily exercise, eating healthy, taking one day each week to unplug completely and turn my brain off (Sunday), and prioritizing what truly matters. These practices keep me grounded and ensure I show up as my best self, with sustained energy and avoid burnout. Read more>>

Lauryn Dove | Oil Painter and Artistic Naturalist

So much! My friends, my family, swimming in the ocean, smelling plumeria flowers, walks in autumn. The simplest parts of life make me happiest. It’s such a privilege to be surrounded by nature and community. I feel so lucky to honor these simple pleasures through my artwork. I also give this gift by painting loved ones and cherished places in commissions, building connections with my clients and imbuing their heartfelt emotion in our pieces together. Oil paints make me really happy because they take forever to dry and allow me to change my mind a million times until it feels right. Read more>>

Tammy Hampton | Holistic Wellness Coach and Tarot Reader

I want to be well known in a positive light. If I could make a positive impact on the people I come in contact with, that’s what makes my heart feel full at the end of the day. The more people I help, the more aligned in my purpose I am. Being a face of spiritual wellbeing is one of my goals and I’m paving the way to get there Read more>>

Clinton Jordan | Realtor, Gym Owner, Retired Air Force Fireman

Retiring from the Air Force. I was not ready or prepared to have to make the decision when I did Read more>>

Katy Schlegel | Healer, Intuitive, Explorer & Spiritual Guide

The most important lesson my business has taught me is to never, ever give up. From the outside looking in, I probably haven’t been much of a success in my business. I’ve failed many times over. However, one thing I had to learn as a business owner and founder is that I can never give up on my dreams because once I’ve given up, that’s when the real failure sets in. I remind myself often of the “3 Feet from Gold” story. The moral of this story is that the miner gave up on his mine because he wasn’t striking gold, so he sold it to a “junk man,” and when this man got to work, he struck gold just 3 feet from where the miner gave up. Read more>>