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.

Rana Hodges

Taking risks is never about being reckless- it’s about choosing courage over comfort. That one “RISK” could be the one move that changes the course for your entire life or career. I believe doing risky things if there is intention and not just recklessness behind it that it can be a beautiful thing. The risks I took from moving from security of being Military, being a mom of 2 and up and moving to a new city and starting from scratch. It took a lot of praying and faith that I am so thankful in my risk-taking that I have grown mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Risk has given me the life I prayed for and keeping God at the forefront of what he gives you free will to decide has transformed multiple platforms for me and put me next to people I wouldn’t have ever thought I could be in or at. Read More>>

Maci Perry

Risk is the crazy cousin to Courage and Faith. Without taking the risk, you will stay the same place of stale regret for a lifetime. When I started Chic Interiors & Events, I didn’t realize the major risk I was taking because I have been raised by a Father who laughs in the face of risk. As an entrepreneur, he raised me to carry a secured boldness in knowing that it is better to have faith and risk it all, then to never step out and do what you feel led to do. Read More>>

Joanna Suazo

The most important thing I’ve done as a parent specifically being a single-mother in terms of impact on my son is that although I may have a hectic schedule, but as a result he is learning how to be independent and self-reliant. He is also included in the business whether that’s attending pop-up markets or helping me with a setup for an event. This allows him to get an inside look on the day to day operations of the business and take part on the journey. Read More>>

Chris Protein

At first glance, a personal training studio may seem to just be about physical changes-losing fat, building muscle, getting abs or similar. But it goes far beyond that, and has a major impact on the community. through the changes, we help people improve their confidence, health, and quality of life. In doing so, we create a world that is stronger mentally, emotionally, and physically. Read More>>

Genevieve Henriquez

At Tha Nail Artistry Academy, we empower students especially young adults, to build real careers in the beauty industry. We don’t just teach nails; we teach business, confidence, and leadership.
Our programs create job opportunities, support small business growth, and provide affordable access through scholarships, mentorship, and flexible training. When our students succeed, the whole community benefits. Read More>>

Stephanie Trevino

It is fickle. You have times when you will have so many clients you can barely manage… then you will have times where tons of people cancel at once. It can be really hard the first few years. You can plan for it and you can be happy with slower times because that is when you work on operations. Read More>>

Cortni May

People think spray tanning is just about getting a little color—but it’s way deeper than that. It’s a confidence boost, a pick-me-up, and sometimes even therapy for people. What most outsiders don’t realize is how technical it is behind the scenes. I have to assess skin tone and undertones, choose the right solution, blend it evenly, and work with lighting and environment to make sure the final result looks flawless in real life and on camera. Prep matters, aftercare matters, and no two tans are the same. It’s not just spraying and hoping—it’s precision, consistency, and connection. Spray tanning is a science. Read More>>

Samantha Francois

Dropping everything and relocating to Houston in 2023 was the ultimate gamble and my most daring decision to date. I uprooted my entire life, trading familiarity for uncharted territory. It was a high-stakes move that tested my mettle, but I wasn’t about to let fear dictate my destiny. Read More>>

Justin Myers

It was the only thing that didn’t bore me to tears , I literally worked in a lot of careers before realizing hair was the one thing that made me happy. I quit a lot of different jobs because eventually it just got monotonous or I could t go higher and the thing about this business there’s always something new or more to achieve or get better at! Read More>>

Mary Lambrakos

I’m not sure I ever set out with a clear plan to pursue a creative career. I think it unfolded more naturally, shaped by how I was raised and what has always moved me. Growing up in a Greek-American family, there was a strong sense of rhythm to daily life. Beauty, tradition, and storytelling were always present. That kind of environment teaches you to pay attention and to find meaning in the details. Read More>>

Michelle Please

When I first started out in nursing, my full time ER job took up a majority of my life. I think this was beneficial to help me learn how to be a successful ER nurse. I was at the hospital 3 days a week working 12 hour shifts at night. My days off consisted of sleeping and catching up on sleep. I lost a lot of sleep, weight and time with my family and friends while working night shift. But as a new nurse, I had to put in my time. Read More>>