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.

Nick Esposito | Owner, Belle’s Nashville Kitchen

Without a doubt, the most important decision I’ve made is to have humility. Owning your own business brought so many aspects of things that I never really thought of when I worked for someone else. I learned very quickly that there are so many people involved in the success of a business, and you don’t realize this until those people aren’t there. When you are the owner of a small business, you become all of these people. Read more>>

Christina Barrueta | Author and Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame food, beverage, and travel writer

I’m inspired by the talented and hard-working hospitality professionals in Arizona’s thriving culinary and beverage scene. It’s such a dynamic and evolving landscape, and I am so grateful that I can devote time to spreading the word through my work. That inspiration led me to create my website WriteOnRubee.com and accompanying social media channels dedicated to documenting the people and places that make Arizona’s food and drink culture so special. My goal has always been to spotlight our inspiring community, and that mission has extended into my work as an author. Read more>>

Nelson Flores | Artist & skateboarder

In the beginning of my art career I wanted to be known as a skateboard artist. I spent a lot of time making fan art for professional skateboarders and built a reputation that way. But, as I’ve gotten older I’ve kinda grown out of this youthful lifestyle. I think my legacy is at a tipping point. Read more>>

Codi Stonehouse | Wedding Planner and Coordinator

The Arizona wedding industry is pretty amazing. Rather than seeing each other as competition, we’ve developed a community-oriented mindset, coming together to share resources, support, referrals and fostering a network that prioritizes the success and happiness of everyone involved that elevates the entire industry. Read more>>

Darcy Easley | Therapist

The two most difficult decisions I have made in life is changing directions in my career as a therapist. I began working in residential treatment and when it was recommended that I transition to outpatient therapy, I was afraid that I would not be able to make the move. I took a leap of faith and built a program that tripled in size and became more successful. The second has been to transition from agency work to private practice. Again, I was worried about my ability to make the shift, but it has been rewarding and eye-opening. It has reminded me what I am capable of, and I hope to continue to build and make space for clients who need help. Read more>>

Cindy G. Castillo

In my 20s, I felt like I was constantly running—chasing every opportunity, fueled by the limitless energy, fearlessness, and ambition that come with youth. Coming from a small town, I was let loose into a big city on my own—a world where I could pursue anything and everything, which was a blessing in itself. I had the unwavering support of my mom, who cheered me on in every achievement, no matter how big or small. Those years were about pushing boundaries, exploring my passions, and carving out my path in the media industry. I was fortunate to find mentors, peers, and leaders who helped along the way. I poured myself into my work, striving to excel and make my mom proud. Read more>>

Marc Nassos | Real Estate Developer

I used to prioritize work over almost everything. I had a fearful obligation to my employer and that I needed them more than they needed me, and it almost felt like a ball & chain. When I was younger, this didn’t matter that much, but after I was married and started to have a family, it all changed. I was missing the best years of my family life. I missed seeing my kids in the morning and reading them a book before putting them to bed at night. Read more>>