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.

Cristi Knudsen | Owner/Operator – The Rush Coffee & REALTOR

The most important factor behind the success of The Rush Coffee is our deep commitment to community, quality service and products and reliability. From day one, I’ve focused on creating a business that not only serves great coffee but also fosters genuine connections with people. Building relationships with customers, local businesses, and event organizers has been key to growing our brand. When it comes to quality, we don’t cut corners. Every drink we serve is crafted with care, using premium ingredients and prepared with attention to detail. I believe that when you put people and quality first, success follows naturally. It’s not just about serving coffee—it’s about providing an experience that brings joy to our customers and supports our local community. Read more>>

Johnny Bottone | Drummer | Creator | Rhythm Explorer – Bringing beats to life with JohnnyBdrumming.

Dedication—showing up when you’re tired or don’t feel like it. Consistency and engagement – never take your audience for granted. If they reach out to you, respond. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to be yourself! You’re an original. That’s what will attract people to you. Read more>>

Eric Estrada | Real Estate Company

Our success has been rewarding but that doesn’t mean it didn’t come with patience, time and challenges. Our real estate company has always put people first. Whether you are brand new, experienced, or a top producing real estate professional, we have always made our team our top priority. When you lead and leave the same door of opportunity open for all, there is a sense of unity, collaboration, equality, and support. We believe that “Everyone Deserves a Place to Call Home” ™ and we truly stand by that belief and do everything in our power to ensure that no matter where you come from, where you are at in life or your career, you can find HOME within our organization. Read more>>

Jam Hair Studi0 | Hair studio focusing on shape, color and extensions.

Being true to ourselves, our craft and art. Also being accountable for our work and the product we deliver. Building true relationships with our clients, its important to listen. Read more>>

Kristen Glenn | Entomology Artist

I believe the most important factor behind my success is the fact that I am transparent with a lot of my personal life. I don’t hide behind things that need to be discussed more openly in the world. I share a lot about my mental health, traumatic brain injury, and my experience of surviving a DV relationship. As well as other things that others can relate to and be able to have an open conversation that is usually not spoken about or talked about enough in this world. I think that makes me more real and less secretive which makes me more relatable to the people I sell my art to. It also gives them an understandment of me more and gives me the opportunity to discuss things that are important that society refuses to talk about when these are very real problems that people face with everyday. Through my eyes my art isn’t just art, it’s a way of bringing awareness and sharing connections with others and sometimes beginning friendships. After all, it takes a community to build a village. Read more>>

Dj Miss Haze | DJ & MC

The most important factor behind the success of my brand is my consistency and reliability. I am known for being the best Wedding DJ and DJ for Corporate Events and Private Events not only in Denver and Chicago, but nationwide. I consistently create an elevated vibe at any event and remain laser focused on the experience for anyone in the room. My reliability and business acumen round up my advanced level of mastering the art of DJing, and I truly love what I do! Another key factor to the success of DJ Miss Haze are people. The ones I work with, the ones that support me, challenge me, and grow with me. I am grateful and honored to have a powerful tribe around me. Read more>>

Tammy Oakland | Voice Over Artist/Event Host/Musician/Podcaster/Radio Talent

The most important factor behind my success is absolutely my wonderful support team. The amazing people in my life play a crucial role in lifting me up and keeping me grounded when I need it most. Having a network of supportive and encouraging individuals makes all the difference. Their unwavering belief in my abilities, along with their constructive feedback and emotional support, fires me up to achieve my goals. It is their kindness, wisdom, and positive energy that gives me a strong foundation for success. Read more>>

Madonna Collingwood | Founder and Professor

As an educator and coach I don’t just teach, I help you get your foot in the door. You can start your journey to becoming a pro with my programs with no previous knowledge or skill. The most important factor behind my success has been putting my students and clients first and prioritizing their needs and schedules. Read more>>

Becky Mickletz | Content Marketing Specialist

The people by my side! I have always believed in nurturing my relationships, whether I’ve known someone for 5 minutes or 5 years. Part of that is putting myself in a room with people who know way more than me in addition to those who know about other topics. Diversity really is the spice of life, baby! Read more>>

Inderjit Singh | Chef

The most important factor behind every person’s success is their hard work and how passionate a person is towards their goals. The success of my business is probably because of the love i have for cooking or how fascinated i am for what i do. I can prould say i do what i love the most.This is very important question!! I don’t consider myself successful yet. I am still doing hard work to be there and achieve the ultimate goals of my life one day hopefully soon with waheguru’s (God) blessings. Read more>>

Lee Grest | Watercolor Portrait Artist

I am very disciplined about my art practice. It’s very rare that a day goes by that I don’t engage with my art in some way. I paint almost every evening of the week. If painting somehow doesn’t work out, I sketch, plan, prepare materials and/or network with other artists. I water the roots in some way—everyday—to nourish the growth of this dream. In addition to my art career, I have a part-time job in healthcare and three young sons. In the juggle of the day-to-day, my family comes first. Once their needs are met and little ones are tucked in, I head to my studio. In the early days, my “studio” was the laundry room counter, a card table in our bedroom, or a clipboard on the floor. With dedication, I carved out time and space whenever and wherever I could. My art practice has evolved, and with that the space in which I create has also bloomed and grown. I now work in a studio shed in our backyard, which feels like a hard-earned luxury. Read more>>

Kira Hanna | Co-Owner at Up Top Cafe

The most important factor behind the success of Up Top Café has been creating a space that genuinely connects with the community. From day one, our goal wasn’t just to serve coffee and food—it was to serve moments, memories, and a sense of belonging. We’ve focused on building an atmosphere that feels welcoming and intentional, where every drink or bite is crafted with care and every customer feels like part of our extended family. Read more>>

Elena Rivera | Photographer

The biggest factor behind my success and the success of my business, would have to be making genuine connections. Anyone can go out and take a picture of something or someone, but taking the extra step to make connections with your muse is what sets you apart. It gives people a story to read into when they look at your art, and feel what you felt while you were capturing it. Read more>>