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.

Hanna Ketelhut | Chainmail Artist

It started out as a new hobby – I’d decided to try chainmail, watched a few YouTube videos, and started making small things. A good friend told me that they thought I should make an octopus out of chainmail, and the more I thought about it, the more I thought I could do it. So I ordered a bunch of rings, sat down and made an octopus. It hadn’t occurred to me that someone else might have done so before, so I just played around until it was the size and shape I wanted.  Read more>>

Christine Serpas | Business owner

This is a good one…. I am a risk taker through and through, not just my professional life. That’s how I came to Colorado. My daughter said she is thinking of transferring colleges to Colorado and if I would want to move out there if she went (short pause) YES!!! Taking a risk means truly chasing your passion and love. If you never take a risk, you will cheat yourself of knowing your full potential. Read more>>

Owen Hisle | Christian / Secular Family Friendly Movie Producer & Director

It’s not so much as “what I’m inspired by” but who I’m inspired by. I have always been inspired by my late mother (Mom) Francis Catherine Gallicchio. My Mom was my best friend. She always encouraged me to pursue all my creative, artistic gifts. I got my artistic creative gifts from my Mom because she too was very gifted at singing however, my number 1 inspiration is my Lord and Savior, Jesus – The Bible teaches that God gives gifts to people to serve others and give glory to God. 1 Peter 4:10 says, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace”. My prayer is that Hisle Films movies will inspire others with the entertainment factor as well as share the true Gospel message of Jesus. Read more>>

Rosie Mencia | Spiritual Coach and Sound Healer

For me, inspiration comes from my love for people and the deep connections we share. I’ve always been fascinated by the way we, as human beings, are all on our own journeys—yet we have this incredible capacity to help each other along the way. Whether I’m working with someone through sound therapy, biofield tuning, or spiritual coaching, it’s about holding space for them to feel seen, heard, and supported. I think that’s where my heart truly comes alive. Read more>>

Yuki Tojo | Massage therapist & personal trainer

Habits for success that helped me with my private practice would have to be hard work, commitment, and persistence. These three things have helped immensely in a lot of areas in my life from relationships, being in the Army, and in my hobby of competitive bodybuilding. Read more>>

Leigh Richards & Kate Fitzpatrick Rich Roots Flower Co. | Dried Florals & Installs

We are both highly driven women who always strive to do our best. We want to ensure that our hard work is seen through the intention we use when creating customized arrangements and installs for clients. While we balance our business we also put our families first. Each week is planned with purpose and priority, getting the most of our upcoming events as well as our family dynamics. Read more>>

Morgan Mondy | Salon owner and stylist

I think that one of the most important factors in the success of my business is that I have had a strong belief in creating a business for the benefit of all. I believe that whenever we do anything, if it is solely selfishly motivated, it turns sour. But when you consider the experience of the client, the investment into the employees, and the established culture of care—all these things benefit not just the bottom line, but the community, and brings a fullness to life. I think that being motivated by others’ wellbeing is the most successful way to run any business. Read more>>

Julie Godard | Herbal Skin Care Formulator & Natural Wellness Co-creator

The principle of living in harmony with nature inspires me everyday. We can learn so much of ourselves when we take time to sit in nature and observe. Harmony with nature reflects the understanding that humans are not separate from the natural world, but very much interconnected. Creating products from nature allows me to share the wonders of the natural world with others. I hope it inspires people to take time to grow something themselves or, at the very least, to observe what’s growing around them and recognize the interactions we have with nature every day—if we’re paying attention. Read more>> 

Cristina Schutz | Strategic Business Coach

The end goal of my career is to leave a legacy of empowerment and inspiration for women entrepreneurs worldwide. By the end of my career, I envision having created a global network where women are supported not only through coaching but also through investments that help them start and scale their businesses. My ambition is to break generational barriers and foster a culture of success that can be passed down through generations.  Read more>>

Luis Guzman | Artist & graphic designer

The most difficult decision I’ve made was to leave my comfortable 9 to 5 job to pursue my dreams of being a full time artist . The responsibility that comes with being a father and husband that provides. Putting everything on the line for a chance to make it in a difficult field has been really tough. Read more>>

Jolene Campbell | Author

As an author, I have the freedom to work everywhere and at anytime. I homeschool my kids and can usually find time to write after we are done with school and in the evening after the kids have gone to bed. I also make it my habit to take my laptop everywhere. I have worked on my books at karate lessons, volleyball games, scout meetings, and at the library. Read more>>

Amanda Held | Horse and Human Behaviorist & Facilitator

Instead of work-life balance—I prefer to think of it as work-life harmony. My aim isn’t to juggle everything evenly but to empower the different areas of my life in alignment with my business and talents. In the early days, I was so focused on business and administrative tasks that I reached burnout. It forced me to adopt a more strategic approach. I’ve learned that life has seven core areas—spiritual, mental, vocational, financial, social, family, and physical. Read more>>