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.

Randi Atwood

“Fall down 7 times, get up 8.” -This quote reflects the true essence of success. We must experience failure to gain deeper understanding, enabling us to build stronger and better solutions. It is a common misconception that the most successful individuals achieved their goals without facing challenges, rejections, or setbacks; however, many have endured difficult circumstances, financial struggles, and repeated rejections. Read More>>

Eli Kraftowitz

My favorite quote is one I have printed and hung by my front door: ‘The Man in the Arena’ by Theodore Roosevelt. It’s a reminder that it’s not the critic who matters… it’s the person who shows up, gets knocked down, and keeps fighting regardless of all the doubtful people.

I’ve been doubted. I’ve doubted myself. I was bullied as a kid, and that taught me early how cruel people, and my own mind, could be. But I also learned that failure is a part of success. If I don’t stand back up, if I don’t keep fighting, I’ll always wonder what could’ve been. Read More>>

J.EX

I don’t know how to give up on something like my rap career or reaching personal enlightenment in life. I’ve gotten to a point in life that I want to be better in life and grow Read More>>

Kat Cafaro

Surrounding myself with supportive, uplifting people create the space where my confidence and growth can thrive. When I face a challenge, I try to push myself to see what I’m capable of. I either discover that I’m stronger than I thought, or I gain valuable experience and learn from it. Read More>>

Paige Cloyd

I believe the decision to be a lifelong learner has not only helped my professional career but my personal life as well. From deciding to go to graduate school, to continuing to participate in various training opportunities, to even learning new skills on the side in my personal life (sewing!), choosing to continue my education and growth has allowed myself to open doors to be successful in many areas. Read More>>

Lena Salgado

Although I am a karate teacher, my hope when students leave is that they felt cared for and and had a fantastic experience. Karate is not for everybody and that’s okay, but my goal as the teacher is building confidence, teaching that kindness and empathy are essential traits, and giving my students the skills to defend themselves or others when necessary. Read More>>

Ariana Julian

While I want to leave a positive impact on every person I meet, every customer and my family and friends, the most important legacy I want to leave is to my daughter. I want her to know that family is the most important and that hard work pays off. I want her to see that not only did her mom take a chance but that she did something amazing. Read More>>

Shannon Chalmers

Consistency and showing up even when it’s hard have been key for me. I’ve learned that success isn’t always about huge leaps—it’s often the quiet, daily efforts that add up over time. I keep a strong calendar, I follow through, and I really try to lead with integrity in everything I do. Also, I make space to reflect and reset—whether that’s through journaling, yoga, or time in nature. Taking care of my own energy helps me stay creative, focused, and grounded in my purpose. Read More>>

 Logan Ellis

In the music industry it’s really a leap of faith. If you can keep consistent and engaging with your audience that is what i’ve found to be a key factor in success. Read More>>

Brandon Bull

This year, Big Bones Canine Rescue has set a clear end goal: to stop having to rescue dogs. While most businesses strive for growth, in the world of rescue, growth means more dogs are on the streets, more surrenders, etc.. At Big Bones Canine Rescue, our main objective is not growth, but rather to create a world where every dog has a loving home. Read More>>