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.
Glenda Grant | Mixed Media Artist
My favorite affirmation is “Go with the flow.” While it might sound simple, this principle has been a guiding force in my life and art for many years. Life often presents situations where you have to adapt and follow the natural course rather than resisting it. This philosophy extends to my artwork as well I rarely plan what I want to paint in advance. Instead, I follow my intuition and the universe’s direction. If I feel inspired to paint animals, I’ll start by browsing animal photographs. Sometimes, a particular image will captivate me, sparking a creative idea. I often begin by playing with paint or using leftover colors, letting shapes and forms emerge organically. From there, I’ll find the references that bring the piece to life. Read more>>
Kameisha Logan | Attorney
Yes, Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This quote means more and more to me as I get older. As I get older I can fully understand and feel this quote. That quote is powerful. We are reading God’s promises to us. God has told us that he has a plan for our life and it will be beautiful. Life is hard and this quote reminds me of God’s promises to me, that he will give me hope and a future. I have seen the hand of God move on my life and he is real, therefore, when times get tough I stand on God’s promise. Read more>>
Shay Savis | Artist , oil painter
I just want to be able to keep painting for a living and to inspire people with the content of the art i create. that is all. Read more>>
Mary Pavlantos PT, DPT, CBIS | Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Brain Injury Specalist
As a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Certified Brain Injury Specialist, I would like to teach the world what I have learned and teach the next generation of professionals how to treat brain injuries. I would like to further educate the general population about how an injury to the brain (one of our most vital organs) can cause devastating effects to a human and their life functions. The brain can be injured from trauma, viruses, and diseases, but in more than 15 years treating this population I have seen amazing healing occur. I always tell my patients, “use the brain to heal the brain.” Read more>>
Cassandra Willett | Yoga Instructor/Entrepreneur
What makes me most happy is the ability to design and live the life I’ve always envisioned. As a wife, mother, and business owner, I cherish the flexibility to set my own work hours, allowing me to prioritize being present for my daughter while nurturing my passion for yoga. Teaching yoga full-time isn’t just a job; it’s a joy and a calling that brings fulfillment every day. Balancing these roles has taught me invaluable lessons in time management, resilience, and the importance of pursuing what truly matters to me. Simultaneously, running my own business allows me to pursue my passion and contribute to my community in a meaningful way. Read more>>
Maria Valentina Sheets | Art Conservator and Glass Painter
I have two labrador pups and thus, they have me up pre dawn to feed. I would say “success” is a term relative to a persons actions day by day. So, I do not let preceding success or failure determine my daily moves. I always have a plan of action regardless of a preceding good or bad day in the studio, and believe me there are plenty of bad days…cracks in the kiln….paint that fired wrong. But I just bury any fear/anxiety/ hesitance, and move into the plan of action. For me the “process of working” is success, not everyone’s approval. Although, I believe the fruits of these actions combine to create work that eventually is appreciated by others. Read more>>
Christine Moore | Yoga Therapist & Instructor
The habit of consistency really helped with my success. Being dependable and reliable is key to building a business. I am someone who always shows up ahead of time and who is always reliable. Yoga for able bodied folks requires consistency, yet working with people with differing abilities, injuries and trauma, consistency is a must to build trust. Reliability and knowing what to expect helps clients ease their minds, connect to the body and build confidence. Read more>>
Justin Schierkolk | Owner and Publisher of Broomfield Lifestyle
The decision to lean on my faith, and focus on personal and professional development were (and are) vital to the success of this entrepreneurial journey. Read more>>
Tim Chalcraft | Wellness seed planter
All we want is for people to realize that they are their own healer, yogis, creators, and gurus. By passing on the word that plant medicine can help you understand all of these things and so much more, we are helping the entire planet. Read more>>
Josh Wolkon | Restaurant Owner of Steuben’s and Ace Eat Serve.
The Obstacle is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials Into Triumph by Ryan Holiday. This was a book I turned to during one of the darker periods of the Pandemic. The Stoic philosophy practiced by so many previous leaders and successful people helped me reframe the situation so many of us were in as we navigated ways to overcome this immense obstacle. I have passed this book on to many friends and co-workers to use as a tool when they face adversity. Chapters are short stories that demonstrate successful use of this philosophy in overcoming challenges. It’s easy to pick up again and again and just read a chapter or two to help reframe your mindset. Read more>>