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.

Ashley Stiles

Thank you for having me back!
I am Ashley Stiles the CEO and Founder of Tribe Development. Tribe is a female-founded and Native-owned commercial real estate development and advisory firm that focuses on creating and cultivating community by looking beyond the physical elements of a project to consider its greater impact on the people who use it. Read More>>

Austin Howlett

I am an oil painter specializing in surreal figurative imagery, a genre that is often referred to as Imaginative Realism. At the center of my work is my Terra Human series in which I blend humans with nature in order to explore concepts such as emotional vulnerability, empathy and self-reflection. With my paintings I hope to illustrate our primal relationship with nature and how the plants, animals and landscapes that surround us can give us insights into our truest selves. Read More>>

Arrika Bales

I am Arrika Bales, and I am a mover and shaker, a thinker and wanderer. When I moved out to Colorado, I stepped into the world of nonprofits for the very first time. And that was at the same time when I was interviewed last. What’s crazy is, the same thing is happening again! I have just stepped in to a role at Trails and Open Spaces Coalition in Colorado Springs. I am leading my life with love, just as before, and it’s bringing me back to a similar place as it did when we last spoke. Isn’t it funny how things work out? Read More>>

Andrea L. Jacobson

I work as a self-taught visual artist, primarily using oil paints. My representational work focuses on portraiture, exploring themes of identity, fragility, childhood, beauty, innocence, and life’s temporary nature. I often incorporate botanical imagery, patterns, textiles, and dramatic lighting. Read More>>

Amanda Matsuda

Hello everyone, my name is Amanda Matsuda, and I’m a 30-year-old hairstylist based in Fort Collins, Colorado. I’ve been behind the chair for 12 years and am the proud owner of Blondish Beauty Bar, which I’ve successfully run for the past six years.

Throughout my career, I’ve been a passionate blonde enthusiast, specializing in creating bold, transformative blonding results and super bright, all-over blondes. About four years ago, I added hair extensions to my services, and it’s been a game-changer—not just for my business but for the instant confidence it gives my clients. Read More>>

Alicia Karczewski

I am Alicia Karczewski, Artistic Director and Owner of MOVE! Dance Space & Arts Center. Here at MOVE! we are focused on the “life-long” dancers providing classes that support and inspire adults to dance again and/or continuing dancing in an adult environment. Along with our dance classes we provide Yoga, Pilates Mat, Tai Chi, and Improvisation supplementing our philosophy that all movement is valued and if expressed with deeper focus and intentions movement supports mind, body and spirit – a whole self investment. Read More>>

Beth Heckel

I am the founder of a nonprofit organization, Think Humanity. The organization began in 2006 after my daughter, a journalist, traveled to Uganda to write a story about the people and conditions in a UNHCR refugee camp.
After she shared her experience and the people who she met, it wasn’t long before I also joined her on a trip to Uganda. Read More>>

Alex Mozota

Hello, I’m Alex Mozota, founder of Drink for Pink, a Colorado-based 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research. Our mission is to ensure that every dollar raised stays local, directly supporting research labs at the Anschutz Medical Campus. What sets us apart is our commitment to transparency and community involvement; we’re a 100% volunteer organization, and we publish annual reports detailing our fundraising and expenditures.  Read More>>

Alex Crawfurd

Hello! For those of you that don’t know me, my name is Alex Crawfurd, owner/operator of BossLady Contracting. We are a full service general contracting firm that specializes in exterior restoration and renovation. We have been proudly serving the greater Denver metro for more than a decade. At BossLady Contracting, we pride ourselves of quality of work, having a positive attitude and well the abiding by the “golden rule.” Like I said in our first interview, in construction, it is not a matter if something will go wrong, Read More>>

Brad Kuhn

Wow, so much has evolved since our first interview! Finding Nectar has truly blossomed in the last three years. Our farm has grown into a vibrant community space, complete with goats, chickens, alpacas, and barn cats—all of which add a unique charm to the experience and help us spark conversations about pollinators. We’ve also expanded our efforts to provide detailed information about our plants, particularly native species, with the goal of becoming a leading resource for Colorado native plants in the Front Range. Read More>>

Brieanna Radford

I’m an installation artist and creative entrepreneur based in Gunnison, Colorado. My work dives into climate change and mental health, using everything from crochet and alcohol inks to fabric, wood, and found objects to build large-scale, immersive installations. Read More>>

Cavi Ornong

My name is Jason Ornong otherwise known in our community as Cavi the Barber. “Cavi”. I am Owner/Operator of Cavi Cuts Barbershop in Grand Junction Colorado. Also big brother to 5 other amazing talented barber in Cavi Cuts Barbershop.
My brand is Cognitve Collection which holds. Tshirt and hoodie line as well as a cologne called Prosperity.. Read More>>

Chris Erickson

My name is Chris Erickson. I am a Carbondale, Colorado based painting, sculptor and muralist. I love working with bold and colorful imagery that captures the viewer and encourages a dialog. Growing up in Denver, I was inspired by 80’s skate culture, iconography, posters and graffiti art. Now I strive to create work that speaks to an issue and hopefully unites community. Read More>>

Clare Anderson

My name is Clare Anderson of Clare Anderson Designs. I specialize in residential interior design, with a strong focus on kitchen and bathroom renovations, also I do love a whole house makeover as well. I offer full scope interior design services, meaning I provide everything from the initial mood board and floor plan, through overseeing the construction, to the very end when I get to do all the fun styling. Read More>>

Courtney Cluett-suarez

I’m so excited to reconnect! Looking back on my previous interview, I can see just how much growth, learning, and refining has happened since then.

For those who may not know me yet—I’m Courtney, founder of Property Concierge LLC and Amor Vida Ault. Property Concierge has always been about elevating spaces, specializing in short-term rental turnover, residential, and commercial cleaning. What sets us apart isn’t just cleanliness—it’s our systems, quality control, and deep understanding of hospitality. Read More>>

Danielle Nelson

Hello my name is Danielle Nelson AKA Dani Blendz. I am the creator of Lillie’s Cutz and Stylez LLC. I am the most versatile licensed stylist in Colorado Springs, Colorado. What sets me apart from the rest is my passion for my clients. I express my drive and determination through my work. My clients can ask me to do almost any style and I will do it without question. Read More>>

Dan Walters

My name is Dan Walters, a wildlife photographer from Lakewood, Colorado. Recently my journey has shifted to leading and co-leading more photography workshops. I just returned from co-leading with Lisa Langell for her Photo Artistry workshops in New Mexico. Read More>>

Emma Reese

My name is Emma Reese, and I’m a 25-year-old professional model currently signed with Wolves Management in Denver and Reinhard Agency in Philadelphia. I’ve been modeling since 2018, specializing in runway, lifestyle, editorial, and e-commerce work. Growing up in Colorado, where I’ve lived since I was five, I was surrounded by a creative and talented family that inspired my passion for self-expression and ultimately drove me to pursue modeling. Read More>>

Eric Faddis

I’m a personal injury and criminal defense lawyer, Founding Partner of Varner Faddis Elite Legal, TV legal/political analyst and media personality, public policy specialist, law-writer, Colorado native, hustler, entrepreneur, boss, husband, brother, and son. At Varner Faddis Elite Legal, we seek justice on behalf of injured victims against the immensely powerful insurance companies. Read More>>

Erin Meyers

I am Erin Meyers, licensed acupuncturist and owner of Wild Blue Acupuncture & Wellness. Since the last interview I’ve rebranded a bit, in addition to working on sports injuries and orthopedic conditions I’ve done more training on stress and anxiety, insomnia, migraines, and leaky gut. Read More>>

Farley Mcdonough

My name is Farley McDonough. I own Adam’s Mountain Cafe in Manitou Springs. I am sole owner and onsite operator 7 days a week. I do everything except cook on the line and put the orders away. What sets me apart from most of my industry and colleagues is that I am woman owned and not a Chef. I was a server for 20+ years. Read More>>

Finn “aves” Willman

Hello there! My name is Aves, and I make art! Specifically, I make and teach art that’s all about respecting the value of your own story. When people ask when I started being an artist my mom’s favorite response is always “they never stopped”. Read More>>

Genevieve Smith

I’ve been painting since I could first hold a brush, and from those early days, it truly felt like my path was set. After studying at the University of California, Santa Barbara, I eagerly sent out my resumes to various places, hoping to start my journey in the arts. Fortunately, a decorative painter saw my potential and hired me, and I’ve been happily creating ever since! Read More>>

Heather Quinn

I’m a tattooer, muralist and graphic designer based in Carbondale, Colorado. I’m known by Sorta Interesting to those who don’t know me personally, I feel like a lot of viewers go by Instagram handles now adays. My art tends to lend itself to an audience that has an appreciation for a darker art style. Read More>>

Heidi Finn

Previewing properties by horseback, helicopter, or yacht. Curating shortlists of lifestyle and investment properties to buy or rent. Overseeing home renovations, liaising with architects, contractors, designers. Helping facilitate a smooth transition for big people, little people, and their pets. Read More>>

Jackson Nies

Hello, I’m Jackson! I am the CTO and co-owner of Steel Shire Design. I also own two other businesses. One as a Denver DJ promoter (Ajax Studios) and another that sells holistic beauty products (Holistic Dragon). I tend to be a visionary that is task oriented. Read More>>

Janie Havemeyer

I am a children’s book author. My young readers range in age from six to twelve years old. I write for two types of publishing markets. One is called The School and Library Market. These books are specifically designed for educational use in schools and libraries. Read More>>

Jason ‘gordo’ Gordon

Most people know me as Gordo, which is a play on my last name. Yes y’all, I know that means “fat” in Spanish. I own and operate a small label called Gordophonic Records, which is more of a loose collective of like-minded artists. I do many things in the musical realm including songwriting, performing, consultation, collaborating, audio engineering and mixing. Read More>>

Jason Hirsh

My name is Jason Hirsh, Im a former MLB pitcher with the Houston Astros and was a member of the 2007 Colorado Rockies World Series Team. I retired in 2013 and started my own player development company right here in Denver focusing on arm care and arm health with baseball athletes. Read More>>

Jay Ferracane

Hi, I’m Jay Ferracane, a graphic designer with over 25 years of experience based in Colorado. I run a design studio called Angrybovine, where we focus on building meaningful brands and visual identities that stand out. I also teach design at the University of Colorado, which keeps me inspired and connected to emerging talent in the field. Read More>>

J. Cru

My name is J.Cru, I’m from NE Denver, specifically Montbello. Because of a life long relationship with the DC area, I say, “I grew up between Denver and PG County, MD.” I’ve also lived in Nashville, NY/LI and spent a lot of time in Chicago, plus a little bit in England, in my younger years. I’ve recently returned to Denver, after 3 1/2 years in Miami. I’ve developed into a multidisciplinary Artist over the years: Personal Chef, Poet and Brand owner. Read More>>

Jenny Ruhland

After graduating in Cosmetology, Jenny took a detour when she met her husband Austin. With Austin being a contractor and working through numerous fix-and-flips; real estate and design clicked as Jenny’s true passion. Fast forward a few homes (and a couple of remodels) later, and in 2017, HomeSpun Staging + Design was born. Read More>>

Jenny Smiley

My name is Jenny Smiley and I own and operate a destination wedding photography business based in Colorado. I specialize in smaller, more intimate weddings for couples that are looking for more than a “party” on their wedding day but an “experience”. I encourage adventure, movement, and epic scenery to couples to start this new chapter together. Read More>>

Jeremy Joseph

My name is Jeremy Joseph and I am a 37 year old photographer based out of Basalt, Colorado. I love doing adventurous activities in the outdoors like mountain biking, skiing, climbing, backpacking, and high lining. Jeremy Joseph Photography is a small business that focuses on fine art prints of the natural landscape and wildlife of Colorado. Read Moree>>

Jessica Lopez

Hello My name is Jessica, I own and operate Kekis Kekis. I am a cottage bakery which means I operate solely from my residential kitchen. At Kekis Kekis we specialize in celebration cakes and hand crafted sugar cookies for any occasion. My focus is on artisanal quality and personalized treats that bring a homemade feel and warmth to my community. Read More>>

Jillian Chernofsky

My name is Jillian Chernofsky, and I’m fortunate to call the vibrant town of Salida, Colorado my home. I’m an entrepreneur, a mother, and an outdoor enthusiast. My husband and I own and operate a short-term vacation rental resort on Monarch Pass, where we welcome guests to relax, rejuvenate, and explore this beautiful valley. Read More>>

Jillian Rothe

Hi – of course! I’m Jillian Rothe – the mom, engineer, and lactivist behind MilkWorx. I’ve been on a wild ride building a business that supports parents in the trenches of early childhood. My brand focuses on designing breast pumping products that make life easier for moms and their partners, whether it’s helping them store breastmilk more efficiently or creating tools to spark better communication (because let’s be honest, sleep-deprived conversations are rough), I love it all. Read More>>

Joanna Azua

My name is Joanna Azua. I am a Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Stretch Therapist and the Owner of Mountain Peak Massage & Stretch Therapy in Colorado Springs. Read More>>

 Karen Fournier

For 17 years, I’ve produced videos for businesses and nonprofits in Northern Colorado. I am a multi=award winning creator, having won 4 Telly Awards and 2 Davey Awards in my career, mainly in the nonprofit documentary realm. I’ve loved my clients and the ability to tell their stories. It’s been an incredible journey. Read More>>

Kathryn Kalamaras

Hi, my name is Kathryn Kalamaras, and I’m eager to talk more about myself and my work and how it has grown in the past few years. I originally moved to Colorado after college to pursue my career in professional dancing. After about four years in Colorado, I danced with several professional companies, including Kim Robards Modern Dance Company, Nosilla, Evolving Doors, Thrive Ballet, Life/Art Dance Ensemble, and others, as well as freelancing. Colorado provided me with many opportunities and was a beautiful place to start my dance journey. Read More>>

Kelly Mccoy

Kelly McCoy is a fiber artist with a passion for crochet. She is the Founder and Chief Creator at Spirit & Flow accessories. Read More>>

Kourtney Thomas

I’m Kourtney Thomas, and I’m a coach through and through. For the past nearly 15 years, I’ve coached in varying capacities – from personal training, to self-discovery, and now to coaching my team as a director at a start-up. My brand is all about confidence and self-discovery – uncovering your version of success, health, and balance; unlearning whatever societal or cultural versions of those things may be keeping you stuck or just not thriving; and unleashing the best path to your best self. Read More>>

Matilda & Enzo Lucas

We’re La Creperie & Bakery of Fort Collins, a family-owned business with deep roots in the tradition of French baking, stretching all the way back to Brittany, France, the birthplace of crepes and galettes. Read More>>

Melissa Ryan

I am committed to co-creating a more relational world. For more than a decade, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families as a relationship counselor. More recently, I have transitioned to teaching relational and alignment skills to organizations such as Bonneville Power Administration, Women in Science Portland, North Table Mountain Water District, BombBomb, Northstar Transitions, and Golden Young Professionals Association. Recent workshops have included: Read More>>

Melissa Zoebisch

My name is Melissa Zoebisch, and I am one of the Artistic Directors of Denver Ballet Theatre & Academy.
We are a pre-professional training program that follows the world-renowned syllabus of the Vaganova method; a comprehensive and progressive system that allows dancers to fulfill their individual potential. Read More>>

Momo Wong

My name is Momo Wong, owner of Momo Wong Design (formerly Naka Interiors). I specialize in high-end residential design, with no personal aesthetic, rather I listen to my clients loves and dislikes and tailor an interior to reflect their personality and preferences. Read More>>

Nicola Cole

I am the owner and artist behind Nicola Jane Photography. I specialize in maternity and posed newborn photography and have a studio in Parker. Originally I come from England, but I have been a Parker resident for 16 years! Read More>>

Nicole Briggs

My name is Nicole Briggs, and I am the founder of Life Empowered NYC and an Assistant Principal of Operations at Ascend Charter School. Read More>>

Patrick Shackley

Hello, My name is Patrick Shackley. I’m the owner/operator of Monarch Tattoo Studio in Denver, CO and have been a professional tattoo artist for 30 years.
Monarch was opened in 2012 with the goal of providing my clients with superior artistry and ethical treatment in a relaxed, professional environment. Read More>>

Rachel Hudson

At Rocky Mountain Corrective Massage we provide corrective medical massage. Our slogan is “pain is a symptom, not a condition”, and our mission is to “reduce the pain in the world, one body at a time.” We work with a large range of healthy clients that live active life-styles and want to stay that way, and also clients suffering from chronic conditions or recovering from all types of surgeries. Read More>>

Razvan Armeanca

Razvan Armeanca (Front of the house manager/server/bartender): I started as a J1 student from Romania, working summers in Lake City. My journey began serving tables at Bruno’s Restaurant and Grill, where I built a strong foundation in customer service. For the past eight years, I’ve been an integral part of CLIMB elevated eatery, working to ensure that every guest enjoys a welcoming and memorable dining experience. Read More>>

Ryan Woodland

My name is Ryan Woodland, founder of Woodland Home Company and Woodland Home Marketplace. We are a custom home builder and reclaimed building material supplier located in Northern Colorado. Read More>>

Sheryl Crawford

Hi, my name is Sheryl! I run a small creative business, Currently still Sheryl Crawford Photography but it’s evolved from only providing digital and analog photography and creative direction to now incorporating mini films and digital content design for clients. Read More>>

Tamara Keeler

My name is Tamara Jade, and I am a 31-year-old Colorado Native raising two beautiful sons. I have been an artist my entire life and I’ve been a tattoo artist for over nine years. I opened the only black owned tattoo shop, EXtra Ink, almost four years ago to raise my children as a single mother, while still doing what I love in my hometown community! Read More>>

Therese Revitte

The field of functional medicine has exploded recently and I’m thrilled to be a part of it! This cutting-edge form of health care digs deep to find the root causes of chronic health conditions and addresses what is burdening the body so it can return to a healthier state. Read More>>

Vivian Cobb

I am Vivian Cobb, Keynote Speaker, Author, and Conversation Coach. Read More>>

Aja Ottero

Choosing to actually LEAD. I’ve had bosses, managers, owners, present owners and remote owners, but very few true leaders. So, I made the decision to invest in learning how to, and choosing to be a transformative leader that is deeply invested in my team and their growth inside and outside of the salon. I was a good empathetic leader, but that isn’t always the whole picture. Read More>>

Susanne Gribble

I hope people remember me as someone who cared about people and loved deeply without limits. I love interacting with people and hearing their stories. I don’t care if we disagree on every single thing, I always find it fascinating to hear why they believe what they do and how they got there. Read More>>

Cya TheCreator

I want my legacy to be one of empowerment and connection, where I helped create spaces for communities of color to thrive and be heard. I hope my work sparks lasting change and inspires others to act for equity and justice. Read More>>

Elita Moon

Putting myself out there everyday has really helped me to succeed. I am ready for any challenge that comes my way! I show up with a smile on my face ready to work no matter what and truly hearing people’s needs/wants. Read More>>

Lindsay & Michael

The value that matters the most to us is experiences. Through experiences, you grow, learn, and evolve as an individual or as a couple. Since meeting in 2020, under the circumstances of COVID-19 pandemic, our third date was under the social distancing protocol. Read More>>

Ryan McCurry

Growing up most folks would say “get a real job” or “music should be a hobby.” Not bad advice in general, but we should trust our hearts and that little voice inside that says what we need to hear. As Allen Watts once said-“Better to have a short life that is full of what you like doing, than a long life spent in a miserable way.” Read More>>

Kimberly Shankland

One thing most people don’t realize about our industry is how much ongoing learning and behind-the-scenes work it takes to plan a single trip. It’s not just booking flights and hotels—we’re constantly training, staying updated on destinations, and nurturing relationships with partners worldwide. Add to that the long hours, including being on call 24/7 whenever clients are traveling, and it becomes clear that it’s not always glamorous. Read More>>

Monica Olsen

We have come to find that work life balance is extremely important for us as Massage Therapists. The more in balance we are in our lives and work, the better quality service we can provide. Creating our own business has provided the freedom to design our schedules in a way that suits our own lifestyles and needs. The results were extraordinary for us, and our clients! Read More>>

Casey Lesieur

I used to work 7 days per weeks and had no work/life balance. After constantly getting burnt out and drained from too many hours, I decided to cut back and focus more on me. Since I have been able to have a day or two off, I have been able to pick up one of my favorite hobbies again: gymnastics. Since I have started competing in adult gymnastics, my efficiency has improved in both work and life! I have better habits when I have that work/life balance. Read More>>