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.

Leti Corson

One thing that outsiders are unaware of is MMA. MMA is known as a liquid monomer. It is, what is mixed with acrylic to create an enhancement. It is an ingredient used in many local nail shops. This monomer that contains MMA is illegal and yet it is commonly used in acrylic nail services. Clients do not know the risk in having this product on your nails. It damages the nail plate, causes allergic reactions and ultimately can cause nail plates to fall off. It is one of the most common things private nail techs deal with. Clients rarely know what this is and understand that cheap sometimes isn’t the best! Read more>>

Amiya Iwueke’s | Artist/ singer/ songwriter

The single most important decision that contributed to my success, other than deciding to work for myself, was investing in into my craft and personal development. By committing to ongoing showcases and sessions along with skill-building, and self-improvement, I was able to learn and, adapt to new music scenes, and develop a growth mindset that propelled my success. This decision not only enhanced my expertise and credibility in my music but also allowed me to build a strong foundation for long-term growth and sustainability in my career as an artist. Read more>>

Daja Lee | Tax Accountant

The most important factor behind my success is the trust of my amazing clients. As an accountant and finance professional, I truly take on one of the most vulnerable topics in peoples lives, their money. So it is such a privilege to have them trust the process of helping them identify a health relationship with their taxes and finances so that they can be stress free. Read more>>

Lauren Grattopp | Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

The most important factor behind my success and the success of my business has been the connections I’ve made with others. I worked hard to get to where I am, and all that hard work lead to various opportunities that connected me with other likeminded, driven people with big dreams. I could not have done it myself! My family and friend support systems have been a solid rock for me to fall back on and keep me going when it felt like the end of the road. Read more>>

Allison Cahill | Designated Broker & Luxury Real Estate Specialist at The Agency

I am originally from the Kansas City area, and I have lived in many parts of the Country after graduating from college. We moved to Scottsdale 18 years ago and never want to leave. I grew up with strong mid-western values meaning that one’s word and reputation were everything. I was brought up in a family with a strong work ethic and with an entrepruenial spirit. Read more>>

Nicole Burbank | Peak Performance & Transformation Coach

To be honest, I don’t believe in the traditional idea of balance. I’ve learned that the concept of “balance” often holds us back more than it helps us. Instead, I prefer to think in terms of harmony. For me, the idea of balance implies that everything in your life should get equal attention, which can create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of overwhelm or even failure when things don’t work out that way. Read more>>