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.

Cathy Deibler | Artist, mom, surf and sail

I was always a bit of a risk taker in my twenties, I was able to use a freelance job paycheck to buy a ticket to the other side of the world and had a working visa to fund my travel, reinvent myself and explore. I did that for two years! I took another risk in flying to work in Japan aged 29. I worked three jobs until I found the best one by the sea and surf. Whilst working there, I met an American Naval Officer and took the ultimate risk to marry and move to the USA. I had only ever been here once for a long weekend in New York. Read more>>

Jennifer Boutelle

At The Local Gist, our mission is to make a positive impact by strengthening our local community and supporting small businesses in Temecula. We aim to create an accessible, inclusive platform that benefits both residents and visitors. Through our website, we provide a free, user-friendly digital resource that helps people discover local deals, discounts, and promotions at small businesses around town. By making these promotions easily searchable by day or category (like Happy Hour), we ensure that everyone can quickly find exactly what they’re looking for, encouraging exploration and supporting local establishments. Read more>>

Kemi Pavlocak | Beekeeper & Owner of SAVAGE BEE-CHES | San Diego Gourmet Honey

One habit that has significantly contributed to my success is my knack for cultivating friendships and mentorships, even though I’m naturally reserved. I’ve somehow managed to assemble an incredible group of friends and ‘aunties’ who are always there to support and guide me. Friendship, for me, is about mutual care without burden, and I cherish the strength and wisdom I gain from these relationships. These bonds are especially powerful with those who have faced their own struggles and share invaluable advice to help me avoid similar pitfalls. Their guidance and occasional tough love have been essential in steering me towards personal growth and keeping my actions aligned with my values. I am immensely grateful for every extraordinary person who has entered my life, enriching it beyond measure. Read more>>

Linda Shrader | Sculptor, Muralist, Photographer, Fine Artist

In all my artwork, quality/structural integrity comes before aesthetics. I put time and effort into aspects that no one will ever see, but I know it’s there. Naturally, I love to create beautiful art, but I would never want my name on something that failed before it’s time due to lack of quality, in materials or processes. Read more>>

Rod Freeman | coach

One of the values that matters most to me is servanthood—the desire to help others selflessly and make a positive impact on their lives. This principle resonates deeply because it embodies love, compassion, and humility. I believe true leadership and fulfillment come from lifting others up and leaving a legacy of kindness and support. This aligns with my calling to serve those closest to me and my community. By living this way, I feel I can reflect God’s love and fulfill the purpose He has for me. Read more>>

Angelo Acevedo | Filmmaker

The end goal is to become a filmmaker and director, bringing stories to life on the big screen. Being a filmmaker is less about meeting specific criteria or earning a degree and more about having the courage to start, create, and grow. It’s about taking that first step, committing to the craft, and seeing where the journey leads. Read more>>

Red Rapinan | DJ, Dancer, Producer, Artist, Creative

The most important lesson I’ve learned so far in my creative career is to just be 100% authentically you in everything you do and to have intention in everything you do. When you trust and allow yourself to do this, yes it’s hard, but it also eliminates the idea of competition and instead focuses on your being/brand. Read more>>

Michael Stockstill | Author

After a career in journalism followed by public affairs, I never gave up on the idea of writing a book.
Following the admonition to “write what you know” I contacted a former colleague at the Irvine Company and
decided to join him in writing a history of the early, critical time at the company when the New Town of Irvine
was created.
My research and writing over two years was very rewarding as many untold stories about that time were
revealed. The result was the book “Transforming the Irvine Ranch: Joan Irvine William Pereira Ray Watson
and THE BIG PLAN.” Read more>>

Alison Metcalfe | Owner, Salud

My perception of work-life balance was learned through my parents growing up. My Dad worked as a California State Park Ranger where we had to wave at the front kiosk to get through to our home. While this sounds endearing to the average Californian, it’s tricky as a teen. I can remember timing my posture to slump further down in my seat the closer we reached eyesight of the seasonal Park Aides. I guess in some ways it was our own little gated community. For my father, there was no line between work and home life. For us, our home was just past the “Authorized Vehicles Only” signs. Read more>>

Ryan Sullivan

Oh man when I was younger I believed a good work life balance was working less and doing more of the things I wanted to do but now I work more than I ever have and I’m happier doing it. I think balance can be a tricky thing especially as a entrepreneur it’s really easy to loose yourself in work and forget everything else (social life, hobbies, basic life tasks) so now I have checks and balances in place that force me to unplug from work and spend that time doing other things. Read more>>