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.

Donnell Johns Sr. | Founder, Veterans Growing America / U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major (Retired)

Over time, my perspective on balance has evolved significantly. In the military, balance was dictated by structure, with clear lines between duty and rest. But in leading Veterans Growing America, I’ve learned that balance is more nuanced. It’s about prioritizing – finding the right balance between the demands of the mission and personal well-being. Importantly, I realized the indispensable role my family plays in achieving this balance. They provide a support system that allows me to navigate the demands of my work without losing sight of what truly matters. It’s through them that I’ve learned balance is more than a personal endeavor; it’s a collective one. This partnership with my family has been key to not only professional success but personal fulfillment as well. Read more>>

Emily Ponczek | Food Blogger/Content Creator & Social Media Manager

My work-life balance has been very challenging particularly in the past year. Juggling a full-time job at a pharmaceutical company along with managing my food blog and handling social media for local restaurants was really hard at first. I had to reevaluate my routine and explore what worked best for me. I was able to secure a job with more flexible hours, from 7-3 which has helped me allocate time more efficiently. Read more>>

Carol Koenecke-Grant | Owner and Proprietor of Flowertown Bed and Breakfast, Summerville, SC

People say that you are never quite ready for your next position and that can be daunting. Early in my corporate career, I decided that the most important thing I could do to succeed was to learn everything I could about people, workplace culture, job duties, and expectations, and be open to feedback, instruction, and direction. I would put my head down, work hard, and put my energies into achieving and growing the organization. That is where the courage to take a risk is critical. You will never know what you can achieve until you step into the situation. Take that risk and trust that others will help and support you. Read more>>

Reyanne Wilkie | Makeup Artist

It’s always difficult to decide when to be selfish and to not feel guilt when you are. The most difficult decision I have ever had to make, was choosing myself and choosing to put my needs and self worth before anything else. With this my confidence has grown which has relayed into my work and interpersonal relationships. While it is uncomfortable to grow by yourself, the reward is worth all you that you lost. Read more>>

Noemy Santos-Turpin | Bartender

As a bartender, I approach risk with a mixture of caution and curiosity. While it’s important to consider potential consequences, I also recognize that taking calculated risks can lead to exciting discoveries and opportunities for growth. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that being open to trying new techniques, experimenting with flavors, and stepping outside of my comfort zone has been instrumental in refining my craft and keeping things fresh behind the bar. By embracing risk-taking in moderation, I’ve been able to stay adaptable, stay ahead of trends, and continually elevate the customer experience. Read more>>

Jane Howard | Photographer

I don’t know if I’ve taken a lot of risks in my business, although just starting a small business is a huge risk! This past year, I’ve started taking risks artistically, and tried things I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I had to push through some fear, but I think you get to a point in your life or career that you believe taking that risk is way more rewarding and essential than not worrying what other people will think about it. I’ve also seen and experienced that sometimes things that feel like a big risk happen to you unexpectedly. Things like loss, or disappointment, or broken relationships can require risk to move forward. And if you walk through those difficult circumstances towards the goal of healing and not bitterness, you view the world differently as a result. Embracing and not running from those life experiences can change you creatively, even if they feel risky at the time. Read more>>

Hotep | Educational Media Mogul

All of my business ventures are a bi=product of me being: 1. Open 2. Observant and 3. Obedient. So when it came to starting my anime brand, Black Lion and Cubs, I was receptive to the idea. I noticed my children liked anime-styled cartoons. And I recognized the need for a family-friendly anime with Black heroes. Read more>>

Damara Wright | Systems Engineer & CEO

As I reflect on my life and the impact I have had on others, the question of what I want my legacy to be is one that lingers in my mind. For me, a legacy is not just about leaving behind material possessions or achievements, but it is about the lasting impact I have on the world and the people around me. I want my legacy to be one of kindness, compassion, and empathy. I want to be remembered as someone who made a positive difference in the lives of those I encountered. In addition to these qualities, I also want my legacy to be one of inspiration. I have always been a firm believer in following your dreams and never giving up. I hope that by living my life with passion and determination, I can inspire others to do the same and chase after their own dreams. In the end, I may not be able to control my legacy completely, but I can strive to live a life that aligns with my values and leave behind a positive impact that will be remembered long after I am gone. I aspire to be someone who makes a difference in the world, no matter how small, and I hope that my legacy will be a reflection of that. Read more>>