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.

Rachael & Kyle Vermeulen | Writer, Speaker, Disability Advocates

As a parent, especially of a child with a disability, I believe the most important thing I’ve done is consistently show up with love and acceptance. Instead of criticizing, I’ve focused on guiding and encouraging my children, celebrating every small victory. Read more>>

Heather Huffman | Founder

At Free Yourself, we help the community by ensuring underserved populations have access to high-quality mental health care. We create a safe and welcoming environment where individuals from all backgrounds and identities can feel seen, heard, and valued. Read more>>

Bill Wilson | Volunteer and Event Organizer

I would like to be remembered as one who gave of his time and efforts to help others benefit, while not expecting anything in return. This giving spirit is the basis for my part time job of Santa during the Christmas season! I think the world would be a better place if everyone could have that philosophy throughout the entire year!! Read more>>

Alexzandra Edberg | Dog Training Instructor

The dog training industry is unregulated, meaning that anyone can wake up one day and call themselves a dog trainer. When looking for a dog trainer, it’s important to ask questions such as; What experience do you have? What methods are you using? What would you do if my dog is not successful with what we are asking of him? Read more>>

Isabelle Paysinger | Social Media Manager & Business Creative Solutions

The social media industry demands a high level of commitment, creativity, innovation, and continuous engagement. Many people mistakenly believe that simply having an aesthetically pleasing feed will attract clients. However, they often overlook the fact that there is a human being behind the screens. Read more>>

Krystina Dowdell | Founder of Getaway

Leaving my salary position to pursue my own business. I realized that I could only dedicate so much time to my business if I was still prioritizing the work from my previous employer. It’s way too easy to be comfortable with subpar performance when you have a safety net of a salary beneath you. When I have a team working under me, and their earnings are tied to my personal performance, I need to make sure I can deliver.  Read more>>

Emily Mertz | Guide at Uncharted Outdoorswomen

The most difficult decision I’ve had to make was choosing to leave my corporate job. After 10 years, I found myself struggling personally and made the decision to leave. I had built a career around real estate and worked tirelessly to work towards being successful. I became the first female asset manager at my company and impacted policies and procedures that are still in effect today. Read more>>

Rachael Rosner | Counseling | Coaching | Movement

I have learned more lessons than I can count by pursuing a career as a mental health counselor, coach, and dance movement therapist. However, I would say the most important lesson can be boiled down to a quote by Richard Rudd: “People don’t need help. People need love.” As a counselor, I’ve learned that the most important thing I bring to my work is presence, deep listening, and creating both a safe and inspiring place for my clients to bring their whole, authentic selves. When the environment is set with love, flourishing is inevitable. Read more>>

Maya Strausberg | Nutrition and Health Writer

I love this question because I think there is so much room for growth and learning when you run a business. And it’s important to approach obstacles as opportunities for progress when we could otherwise let them drag us down. Read more>>