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.

Natalie Levy | Founder and Managing Partner

I worked hard early on in my career to be in a position to be able to take financial risks today.

My business (our investment group) is mission-first while positioning for sustainability. I’ve been bootstrapping (self-funding) it and 2023 was our first break-even year of operating since launching in 2019. We took time to organically navigate to our ideal customer profile, value prop, and monetization strategy. Read more>>

Jairo Barsallo | Music Artist | Composer

One of my favorite quotes is from “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. “Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure.” This quote resonates with me as it is why I do what I do as an Artist. As long as I can remember Music and Art have always been dear to me. I am always learning in this field, and I know it will continue to consistently be where I will find treasure. It is on going treasure, with self exploration, the people I connect with around my field or admirers of the field, documenting my progression as an Artist, and continuing to create and make opportunities happen. Read more>>

Pat Weston | Musician and Content Creator

To be honest I think about giving up all the time. That ironically keeps me motivated because my next thought is, “what else would you do?” I always draw a blank to that question. I’ve been a creative since I was a kid so I really can’t imagine doing anything else. Inspired by behind the scenes documentaries as well as the films and albums they were for, I couldn’t help but be drawn to it. So giving up doesn’t feel like an option. Read more>>

Jenny Verrochi | Founder of Boot Tan Fest

The pivotal decision that played a crucial role in my success was wholeheartedly pursuing my passion and having the courage to persist, even in the face of setbacks and failed plans. Throughout my journey, I’ve remained steadfast in doing what I love, and by unwaveringly following my North Star, I’ve cultivated dream partnerships and a thriving community. Consistency, resilience, gratitude, and kindness have been the guiding forces that propelled me to my current position. Read more>>

Ann Baron | Founder of Northern Colorado Community

Sometimes taking risks can be very successful. Although, sometimes taking risks can be a flop. You need to “count the cost” before taking a big risk. Look at the Pros and Cons. Also, if the risk fails ask yourself what will you do? I have taken many risks and some have been successful and others have been terrible. Read more>>

Emerald Taylor | Mortgage Lender. Life insurance agent and notary

I believe that taking risks is something we do every day. However the difference is not to just take risks but to take “calculated risks” Takijng the time to weigh the pros and the cons before making that decision, on anything. The role that risks has played for me? Well, I think I was taking to many risks lol. Then I had to learn to take and evaluate the calculated ones. It’s been beneficial in some ways where other ways it’s been an absolute failure lol. Better yet, lessons learned. Read more>>

Jonathan Rodriguez | Entrepreneur/motivational speaker

There is not many things to do on the east side of Houston. I grew up here. As a bored child, the only thing I was left to do was do mischievous acts, which ended me getting in trouble. So now, with the intention to help the youth to avoid that, I started my paintball field. The business has allowed me not only get the youth of the street, but also share my story in order to lead them right. To answer the question: my business helps the youth by giving them something fun to do and it gives me access to share my story, which can inspire them to do greater! Read more>>

Georgette Kilgore | Content Director, Researcher and Forest Enthusiast

8 Billion Trees was founded with the belief that by working together, without bureaucratic constraints that are all too often hindrances, people around the world can effectively impact climate change in a positive way by reforesting areas around the globe that have been destroyed. Read more>>

Christina Archuleta | Krav Maga expert & Fitness/ Nutrition expert

I feel like the most important factor behind my success is that I have experienced hardship in my life and I’ve had to overcome many obstacles to get to where I am today and that it helps me see things from a different perspective, a perspective of someone who has gone through extreme circumstances and has overcome and gotten stronger because of them. Read more>>

Rachel Clark | Entrepreneur & Western Clothing Brand Owner

I disagree with the conventional advice of “follow your heart”. I don’t believe that following our emotions and wants blindly get us anywhere good. Our hearts want comfort – but we only grow outside of our comfort zones. I truly believe that there is a balance between our passions and logic. Our emotions can be a helpful tool, but letting our emotions lead 100% of the time is dangerous. Read more>>