We had the good fortune of connecting with Candace Griffin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Candace, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When deciding to become a content creator, my goal was to feed my need for self-expression while helping others–and earn income while doing it. I’d found joy in other creative ventures and that motivated me to begin YouTubing my hair, make-up, and baking processes. My thought process has always been the same: I’ll do it as long as it’s fun and rewarding for myself and others.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
For 20 years I’ve worked in the childcare field. I’ve worked as an assistant teacher, lead teacher, preschool director, administrator, and most recently as a nanny and corporate childcare provider. I’m most proud of the life long connections I’ve made with children and families and in encouraging creativity and expression in them, I’ve found it within myself. One of the lessons I’ve learned is that the world will not always make room for you to be your full authentic self. You have to create space and boldly show up as you are. I created Conversations with Candace so that I may encourage others to create whatever it is that they desire.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
During the day we’d visit the Museum of Natural Science and enjoy the planetarium, butterfly habitat, and the giant IMAX theater. While in the area we’d enjoy some sun on the grass at Hermann Park or head to City Center and relax on the green while having truffle balls from SWEET or Brick Chicken from Bella Green. For dinner I’d recommend trying the Spicy Tonkatsu Ramen from Ramen Bar Ichi on Dairy Ashford or pho from Ba Mein Bistro in Willowbrook. For a great meal with a family feel I’d recommend empanadas, salad, soup, and sangria from The Original Marini’s Empanada House!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’m grateful to have a number of friends, acquaintances, and loved ones who are creators and creatives. Their work is inspiring and they’ve supported me in my ways. Valaencia Thompson (FROREALDOE and Glittered in Goals), Dozie Oheri (Choose To Do Inc.), Bobby Phats (The Groove), Misha Granado (Love Grows), and Adriane Wiltse (ARW Jewelry).

Website: YouTube.com/conversationswithcandace
Instagram: @conversationswithcandace
Youtube: YouTube.com/conversationswithcandace

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.