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.

Danielle Evans

I came up with the name Better Naked as I was brainstorming my “why” behind wanting to build a brand. I wanted to create a brand that is authentic and relatable to any and everyone who seeks counsel for improvement. Better Naked represents more than just the obvious. It’s about looking and feeling better naked, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Read More>>

Seth & Kim Luague

I first discovered dry ice cleaning through a YouTube channel called Contempo Concept back in early 2020. Based in Singapore, they showcased full vehicle restorations using this innovative method. I was immediately intrigued and wanted the same for my cars—something that could clean the undercarriage and engine bay thoroughly, yet safely, without compromising the vehicle’s original finish. However, after extensive research, I couldn’t find any local providers offering this service. Read More>>

Leurisa Watson

I am a mom of 3 girls. I think the most important thing I’ve done as a parent is prioritize my children. I have remodeled my life with my children at the center. I volunteer at their schools. I am involved in the things they are a part of. I take on their interests. Read More>>

 Michelle Carlson

I have not been the best parent by any stretch of the imagination  but I have tried to stay true to allowing my children to make their own way in the world. They were never forced, just guided and I am so very proud of the choices they made. Strong boundaries growing up made it easier to loosen the boundaries and give them space to make mistakes and learn and grow into the AWESOME adults they are today. Read More>>

Meagan Kuharski

Purchasing Salontrose was the biggest risk I’ve taken to date. When I first interviewed with Shoutout, this was one of the questions I remember answering, and being unsure of how running my own business would go. I just took the leap, I said yes to becoming the new owner, with no manual or guidance on how that would look. Read More>>

Victoria Kinkead

When starting to do my own creative work in Houston, I quickly discovered how the lack of infrastructure was affecting my casting choices. I brainstormed with my dad, who is a former actor, on how I could change this and we came up with the idea of filming actor monologues for free. Read More>>

Abeiku Yanful

I want to be remembered as someone who lead and uplifted as many people as possible to heights they never thought possible, God willing. I want to stand for understanding, connecting (with), and building people. Read More>>

Dr. Jacque Colbert

Balancing my role as Managing Director of HR with leading a nonprofit is demanding, but my purpose keeps me grounded. It’s not just about passion or fundraising—it’s about building a mission that impacts lives, fosters meaningful relationships, and creates a lasting legacy. Read More>>

Baraka Mccann

One of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever had to make was choosing to take a leap of faith into the fashion industry rather than following the more stable and structured path of psychology. Psychology had always felt like the “practical” choice—something deeply fascinating, respected, and with a clear trajectory. Read More>>

Whitney Jackson

My personal experience of growing up struggling with my style due to family finances, being bullied, postpartum depression, and eventually learning how to accept and style my body are core memories that shaped me. Having to make do with what I had allowed me to become creative. Also, my family and friends have connected with me for assistance with their style. Read More>>

Susan Knapp

One of the most fulfilling aspects of life, in my experience, is serving others in a way that also brings personal joy and purpose. For me, this journey began with food and has evolved into a rewarding career as a bartender. Read More>>

Sophia Martinez

In the early days of my lash business, achieving work-life balance felt like a distant dream. I was so passionate and eager for success that I found myself working what felt like day and night. Initially, every waking moment was consumed with perfecting techniques, building clientele, and handling the administrative side of things. Read More>>

Meagan Orsag

The work/life balance concept has always been a struggle for me. When I go “all in,” I truly go all in and so it is difficult to find that balance we all crave. Even though I am far from perfect in this area, there are two things that have really helped me. First, I started to use automated booking services like Session to help me select my availability, send a contract, collect payment, and share albums. It’s truly a game changer and has saved me so much time with that “back and forth” that can happen when scheduling/booking your sessions. Read More>>

Lindsay Benoit

I have never been afraid to take risks or try new things and in our line of work that has helped me tremendously. “Leaning into fear” is something I discuss with our team all the time! Every catering or dessert order we take and event we plan is new in its own way. Read More>>