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

Hi Kira, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started my youtube channel right at the height of the pandemic. We were living in a time where everything was uncontrollable and there was nothing to do but sit and wait. Being stuck at home from school and unable to dance, I turned to youtube. It was an outlet I could use to create and express myself and something I could control the outcome of. It was a form of self care and therapy that kept me steady in a unsteady world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a dancer, content creator, and newly podcast host. As I reflect on this season of my life and where I have been, I am most proud of my perseverance and personal growth. I used to be that person that had a hard time saying no to people and stretched myself so thin to the point of exhaustion. I left little time for God, myself, and the things I was passionate about. A friend once told me that if you want your life to change “you have to make the choice to make a different choice.” It’s a fairly simple statement yet it was eye opening and one of biggest lessons I’ve learned. We can’t always control our circumstances however we do have a say in how we control ourselves and the decisions we make. I had to choose to be different. I had to choose to say no and set boundaries when I felt myself getting tired. I had to choose me and it continues to be the best decision I consistently make. This is what feeds the vision and purpose behind the brand I am creating for myself. I not only want to radiate positive energy and vibes to my audience but I want to be an encourager and inspiration to those with similar stories. Putting yourself first and learning how to take care of you is not east feat but it’s 100% worth it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Although I am living in New York now, if a friend came to visit me in Houston, we would easily start with a nice drive downtown in the evening time to set the tone of the trip. I’d want them to take in the energy and chill vibes of the city. I’d make sure to hit up The Galleria, Midtown, and Buffalo Bayou Park. Food wise: Lotus Seafood, Turkey Leg Hut, and Bahama Bucks. Then if we wanted to have some fun I’d take them to either bars in Washington Avenue or Montrose. As a bonus, if it were February or March then of course the rodeo!

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’d like to dedicate this shoutout to anyone who has stuck by and encouraged me in all seasons of my life. The process of becoming the person God created you to be isn’t easy and requires a lot of support. I thank anyone who has been there for me in my good and bad moments and poured into me in times when I felt I didn’t have much to give.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiraraiofficial/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPBL_SJfAtEob5z0xtUvK9A

Other: i.B.Artin’…Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@i.B.Artinpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ZRRn8H3f7gRjoZ3kIZtMX?si=daf52dc8725f41eb

Image Credits
Josh Brewster Photography Shutterkings Photography Kavion Sabio Photography

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.