Starting a business is a commitment and requires dedication, resources and sacrifice. We asked some of the rising stars in our community how they thought through the idea of starting their own businesses.

Mike Hubberd

This year my band- The Lost Boys- is celebrating our 20th Anniversary! Quite a feat for any band, but especially for one in Houston. I first started The Lost Boys over 20 years ago… in response to the musical landscape in Houston when I moved here from LA. I was a talk show producer- and Disney relocated me from LA to H-town (kind of an unheard of move! lol usually, the move is just the opposite!) I had some favorite 80s cover bands in LA and Santa Monica- as well as a few in Phoenix and Detroit. I wanted to emulate what I had experienced in those other markets- and I knew that Houstonians would embrace that, too. Read More>> 

Desiree Dominguez

The thought process behind starting my own business was for me to be true to who I was called to be. I have held this desire to have my own business and use it for better. I’ve always wanted to be able to do my part in helping others, and for me, that has always been through the beauty industry. So, in better words, I am striving to use my business as a tool not only for myself, but to be a light to others. Read More>> 

Brittany Kingston

Being a therapist is not an easy profession for many reasons and I found that out early on in my career when I got my first job after graduating from my master’s program. Not only are therapists not valued by insurance companies resulting in us being severely underpaid or struggling to make it being private pay, but the emotional toll it takes is no joke. Read More>> 

Tyesha Saucedo

My decision to start my own business came from a deep personal and professional calling. Working in the mental health field, I saw firsthand how many families especially in underserved communities struggled to access culturally competent care. I wanted to build a space that didn’t just offer therapy, but one that felt safe, affirming, and grounded in real understanding of the unique barriers people face. As a woman of color with a lived experience that overlaps with a lot of the clients we serve, I knew I could create something different something that centers community, resilience, and support. Starting Brownstone Wellness Collective wasn’t just about owning a business it was about building a legacy and a system of care that reflects who we are and what we truly need. Read More>>

Tyler Mai

I wanted to put my future in my own hands, having the business meant that every decision I made would affect my own livelihood. I was also very interested in working with technology in general, so I was happy and naturally founded a business that worked out for me. Read More>>