We asked some of the city’s rising stars to reflect on what made a difference in their journey. We asked them to tell us about what they think the most important factor has been behind their success.

Wyatt Rumbold | Wildlife and Landscape Photographer

I would have to say one of the most impactful and important factors behind the success of my wildlife photography would be the support I’ve gotten from both my family and friends. If it wasn’t for them, I’m not sure I would have found the motivation to pursue my passion in the photography world as much as I have. My dad was also a huge help and factor towards the success of starting my own small business selling my photography. Read more>>

Elyssa Desai | Mindset Coach & Hypnotherapist

For me, it’s been understanding what my beliefs are and how I can use them to encourage me to keep on taking the next step. When I say beliefs, I mean the stories we tell ourselves that we believe to be true. We all have them and they dictate how we experience the world and influence our behaviour. They can either be limiting, for example “I’m not worthy of success”, or empowering, for example “I can do anything I set my mind to”. Read more>>

Kathryn Kurtz | Owner & Lead Designer at K Squared Design Studio

I believe in the power of relationships. Residential Interior Design is a high-touch experience when delving in to the needs of a homeowner. Having a focus on providing a clear experience and building trusting relationships with clients, vendors and trades is essential to the success of my studio. Read more>>

Veronica Olga Hernandez | Author, Thought Leader, Public Speaker and Sound Therapist.

I have always approached the unknown with curiosity. I essentially focused more on figuring out what I did not know and never allowed myself to get discouraged during challenges. I always understood that I didn’t know everything but allowed myself to be authentic to my own strengths. I never compared myself to others and simply did my best. Read more>>

Rick DeSimone | Hot Sauce Mogul

I’m fortunate to have surrounded myself with creative, supportive people. I am painfully aware of my blind spots and areas of laziness, so I knew that it would be impossible for me to build this company by myself. I’ve required the help of some very talented friends. Dan Steiner, my business partner, is an accountant and fantastic sounding board. Jon Obenchain (Edge Of The Endless Dream Films) shoots and edits our videos. Kyle Bufkin (Buf Illustrated) designs our mascots and logos. The company wouldn’t be where it is without them. Read more>>

Jonathan Alberico | Owner & Weirdo

The Learned Lemur was founded on and has always maintained extremely high ethical standards, which can be a very challenging tenet to achieve within the oddities world. Over the past 15 years in business, we have worked very hard to establish connections across the country and abroad to ensure we are providing high quality products which we feel good about selling and our clients feel good about collecting. We sell many antique and vintage items, which contributes to eco-friendly ideals of reusing, recycling, & preservation. Read more>>

Karen Comba | Author, International Speaker, TV Host

Addressing Mental Health. I had a mother with Schizophrenia. I wrote memoir from the child’s point of view. I wrote knowing I had to create a platform for my mission to help all children in the world regarding mental illness of every type. I am driven to bring solutions not just talking about this important subject. Now, I am working with NAMI president in Colorado and we are moving forward to bring change to our youth. This will be my success and is my success. Read more>>

Yeshira Rivera Rosado | Pet Bakery Owner

The most important factor behind my success and my brand is that I care about the health of every puppy. I try to do my best to help every pet owner to make their puppies happy by getting healthy, natural, and tasty treats while they are gaining nutritional benefits from my treats. Read more>>

That Friends House Tori and Conny | Holistic Cafe

Family and community is the most important factor behind the success of ‘That Friends House.’ It is our mission to bring life and love back into the heart of city, and that’s why we chose coffee and tea. While that may not be our passion, people and healing is, and delivering that one cup of coffee or tea, or giving someone their first crystal allows us to reach so many more souls! Read more>>

Karrie Wallace | Writer, Photographer, Author, Poet, Creator

I didn’t give up when times got toughs though it was hard and took me awhile to bounce back. I was brave even when I was scared. I was vulnerable when my mental health was suffering and in turn, saw the beauty inside the people who listened. I took risks when everyone around me told me to be safe. I put myself out there to be seen even though it went against my want and sometimes need to be alone. And finally but not lastly, I have a strong drive to teach others how to navigate through this wild world by being true and compassionate to themselves, being brave, vulnerable, and mindful. Read more>>