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.

Travis Parker | Hairdressing Educator

After gaining extensive experience working with various brands and companies, I recognized that my approach to haircutting, encapsulated in my curriculum Hairdressing Made Easy, offered a unique and effective methodology. This proprietary system, which simplifies and streamlines the haircutting process, became the foundation upon which I wanted to build my own company. I realized that my deep expertise and innovative approach to teaching haircutting not only set me apart but also provided a strong basis for creating a business that could offer a distinct value to the industry. Read more>>

Ryan Manalili | Singer/Songwriter

I never thought making money on music was possible. Not to say that I make a living off of my music but I do see it becoming my full time thing in the long run. It was always about expression, so making some compensation was just a plus! Read more>>

Osceola DuBois | MULTI-MEDIA CREATOR

That’s a really great question because, as a whole, I do believe that as I grow, learn, and continue to gain experience within the space I am in, being prepared in a traditional sense is fully foundational. I would say, however, that early on, in preparation for launching in 2014, the consensus within the industry was to “STAY PREPARED.” Nonetheless, significant changes have reshaped the landscape for independent content and media small businesses over the last decade. I believe they can be broken down into about 11 separate categories: Read more>>

Leigh Castelli | Owner & Operator Leigh Castelli Photography

As a small business owner and busy working mother of two, I have always juggled the delicate balance of my career with my family life. Finding that perfect balance can definitely be a challenge but when you have something you are truly passionate about, you just have to commit to making it happen and release the inevitable mom guilt that many of us unfortunately experience at one point or another. Read more>>

Leslie Nemour | Artist/Painter

I once had this unrealistic idea that when all the elements in my life were in sync; finances, creativity, family, romance, leisure, etc., I would live in a transcendental era of happiness and superior painting. Naïve, I know. It is an unattainable goal. Life is a balancing act, and the unexpected gets in the way. As an artist, balance is an ingrained plight that bounces from a job that pays the bills, to private life and then finally to the sanctity of creative thought and production. Although frustrating, perhaps it is the quest for balance that keeps us engaged, sharpens our wits and spitfires the drive that leads to resourcefulness and inspiration. Maybe the challenge helps to avoid complacency. Read more>>