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.

Samuel

Honestly, one of the biggest things was just how I was raised. Even as a kid, my parents always told me I was going to do great things, and I think that stuck with me. It gave me the mindset to dream big and go after more. I also keep a kind of “vision board” or list of goals, and that helps me stay focused when the hours get long or things get tough. At the end of the day, I remind myself that the time I’m putting in now is really just building a better tomorrow. Read More>> 

Christi Reece

I realized early on that no matter how hard I worked, I couldn’t do everything myself. The real key to growth was building a team of people who not only had talent, but who shared my vision and were a genuine culture fit. Skills alone aren’t enough—if someone doesn’t embrace and execute the leader’s vision, they can hold the entire company back. Today, our culture is one of our greatest strengths. It makes recruiting easier, keeps us cohesive, and shines through in everything we do—especially our marketing. Read More>> 

Jacqui & Phil Angelo

Without question, the most important factor behind our success has been the relationships we’ve built. We are a small, husband-and-wife-owned business based in Conifer, and we focus solely on the Conifer, Evergreen, and Foothills communities. It is important to us to build strong, genuine connections—with our clients, our trades, our vendors, and the community. We always try to support local first, whether it’s hiring subcontractors or sourcing materials, and we regularly give back to local nonprofits monetarily and by volunteering our time. At the end of the day, we know we’re not just designing homes—we’re creating sanctuaries for the residents of our community. Read More>> 

Megan Esser

Making connections. Every event I do on The Art Cart comes with the opportunity to make new genuine connections. A majority of my business is children’s birthday parties. I strive to make sure the parents that hire me feel like they were able to give their child a birthday to remember without all the stress and mess, allowing them to enjoy the day as well. I know I’ve accomplished that when I hear from them again for the next family birthday celebration. I make connections with the parents of party guests, making sure they feel comfortable either dropping their child or staying to witness the magic. And most importantly, I get to connect with each kid that steps on that bus. Read More>>

Elena

The principle that matters most to me is integrity rooted in faith. For me, business is more than profit — it’s about serving people with honesty, excellence, and a heart that reflects my values. I believe the way we treat people in the small moments says more about us than the big achievements ever could. Read More>> 

Robin Curley

Rohr Coffee’s success is rooted in the strength and spirit of the Patty Jewett and Colorado Springs community. We’ve always believed that our purpose goes beyond serving great coffee, it’s about lifting up everyone who walks through our doors. That commitment to connection, inclusivity, and mutual support is what drives us every day. We’re incredibly fortunate to be part of a community that not only shows up for us, but allows us to hold space for them in return. Read More>> 

Erica Sanchez

The most important factor behind my success, and our brand at Places Management, is curiosity matched with operational clarity. I’m a lifelong learner who loves solving the puzzle of each asset, resident community, and market. I didn’t just climb the ladder; I climbed the lattice; rotating through leasing, operations, marketing, due diligence, and receivership, which gave me a broader, more resilient skill set. Along the way, I’ve had incredible mentors who challenged my thinking and raised the bar on execution.  Read More>>