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.

Cinzi Lavin | Award-Winning Musical Dramatist/Writer

Everyone has a budget, even billionaires. The most important principle that guides my budgeting is my belief in spending in line with my values. That means that there are some companies I refuse to patronize–certain big-name stores, brands, or international fast-food giants–because they have systemic unethical practices, such as racism, unfair wages, or lack of concern for their customers. We vote every time we open our wallets, so our choices matter very much. Read more>>

Rashad Olurebi | CEO & Founder of Ishoottolive Media

One of the most impactful decisions I’ve ever made was investing in myself. It was a game-changer for achieving a harmonious work-life balance. By prioritizing my personal growth and well-being, I’ve been able to cultivate a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle. Read more>>

Alondria Brooks | Artistic Floral Designer

The social impact of being a floral designer helps the world because there will always be times of celebration. The major components of events from the joyous birth of a new baby to the celebration of life are remembered and honored surrounding flowers. Flowers are universal and memorable. The beauty of floral design and decor makes the world beautiful, enjoyable, and timeless, and continues to evolve decade after decade. Read more>>

Shannon Perry | CEO of Shannon Perry Ministries; Award-winning Author, TV Host, Speaker and Recording Artist; M.Ed.

Our “In Her Shoes” tour for Moms and Teen girls continues impacting communities around the country with answers to help moms and teen girls navigate this season of life. During “In Her Shoes,” moms and daughters sit toe to toe after a day filled with games, food, break-out sessions and more and share how they would like to apply what they’ve learned from this event to their relationship. There are tears, laughter, hugs, forgiveness work and many are able to talk about challenging areas in their relationship for the first time. Watching the change in moms and daughters that transpires throughout the day is incredible. We now host this event as a Lock-In at schools and we are so excited about all the relationships being strengthened throughout generations of moms, grandmothers and even great grandmothers who attend “In Her Shoes” with their girl. Read more>>

Tiffany Wagner | Professional Organizer & Philanthropist & Small Business Owner

I want my legacy to be that this business, my business, has made an impact on peoples lives. Not only for the people that have been clients but the people whose lives have been touched by the clients we serve. Read more>>

Tina Stahl | Founder & CEO

As a result of social media, any child in our community can fall prey to becoming a victim of sex trafficking, regardless of your social status or neighborhood you live in. Read more>>

Dahlgren Baker | Floral Designer

Flowering for a large event is a job that takes an entire week (though much longer when all of the administration, flower ordering, and vessel sourcing is involved)! We often receive our flower boxes on Monday or Tuesday for a Saturday wedding, so that there is enough time for flowers to be properly conditioned before they can be designed with. People often ask me, won’t the flowers die??, but this is the constant tightrope that we floral designers walk! The goal is for the flowers to be at their most bloomed and beautiful on the day of a client’s event, and each floral variety has different preferences as to how they liked to be stored, processed, and kept in the cooler, which is a constant education. Read more>>

Deborah Esther Brooks | Revivalist & Visionary Innovator

By the end of my career, I want to be a thought leader who has proven the necessity of faith and creativity in actualizing human potential, especially through interdisciplinary art and business. My goal is to show that when we blend these elements, we unlock growth that is not just profitable, but deeply transformative. Through God Factor Consulting, I aim to help faith-based founders overcome stagnation through creative strategy and networking. We are building a thriving community of Spirit-filled creatives and founders through bartering, guerilla marketing, and the God Factor Framework. Ultimately, I want to demonstrate how powerful and essential faith is to innovation and holistic prosperity. Read more>>

Chiedozie Iroh | Model, Actor & Athlete

My goal is to become a well-known and respected figure in the acting, modeling, and entertainment industry. I aim to be recognized for my work ethic, creativity, and positive impact on others. I want to build a lasting legacy that goes beyond my career. A legacy that inspires the next generation of athletes, models, and creatives to pursue their dreams and tell their own stories. By the end of my career, I aim to have established a successful brand that showcases my talents, and opens doors for others to succeed and make their mark. Read more>>

Amber Lowe | CEO/Matchmaker/Comedian/Publicist/Producer/Host of Matchmaker Hotline

My perspective on work-life balance has evolved significantly over time. I used to believe that achieving balance required intense hustle, working 100 hours a week to avoid working 40 for someone else. Even on vacations, I found it hard to disconnect from work. However, this year, I’ve come to realize that true balance is less about relentless effort and more about aligning with the vision I have for myself. It’s about frequency, faith, and mindset—believing that what I attract is a reflection of my alignment with my goals and God’s word. I’ve learned that it’s not just about hustle, but about being in harmony with what I want to achieve and trusting that God will meet me at my level of expectation. Read more>>