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.

Dawnelle Middlemiss | Custom Apparel Designer/Sewer

I came up with my idea for my business when I was not finding headbands that would fit my head correctly. Either they would slip off, be too tight or too big for my head or just not the style I was looking for. I decided to get my sewing machine out and start measuring and making my own. Now I make and sell all sorts of items from custom signs, scrunchies, sweat towels, key chains to you name it, I can make it. Read more>>

Brie Whitneybell | Reading Specialist & humanities professor

Risk will always be present. As I move in my educational career, my dissertation focused on Critical Race Theory, book banning, and the negative impact I saw on my students back in 2021. It was then that I knew I was set on a path to fix a broken system and that same system will always have risks, no matter which side you stand on. Read more>>

Jaala James | Content Creator & Marketing Agency Founder

Risk-taking is… obviously… risky. However, I believe taking risks is key to making fundamental changes in your life. I play life by the “shotgun theory, ” meaning I “shoot” at a million things and see what sticks. The only thing is, you need safety. When taking a risk, it’s essential to be aware of potential consequences and how to navigate them. You should also ensure you take risks at the appropriate time for them. So, when I shoot my shot at a new risk, I take my time and set myself up for success. Read more>>

Cynthia Dawson | Family Photographer in Toledo, Ohio

It’s everywhere—you just have to keep your eyes and heart open! For me, light is such a big one—it sets the mood and tells the story. My kids inspire me so much (even when they’re the chaos in the story). Connection is another creativity booster for me—there’s nothing quite like capturing the bond between people.

I also love pulling ideas from unexpected places—art (both new and old), music playlists, and even a clever ad can all spark an idea. I love seeing what other creatives are doing and then putting my own twist on it. Some of my favorite images have been inspired by other artists. So much magic can happen by challenging yourself to try something new, experiment with fresh ideas, and trust the process. It’s amazing how inspiration can lead you to create something uniquely your own! Read more>>

Emily King | Wedding & Elopement Photographer

I am greatly inspired by nature, but more specifically, the desert. I love the colors, textures, and unique rock formations. I oftentimes use the textures and shapes of the desert to aid in my composition. Read more>>

Amy Vander Linden | Physical Therapist and owner

I disagree that entrepreneurs have to hustle and grind. I know that for myself, and many other women who own their own businesses, we are done with that. I’ve now had my own business for over 10 years and have seen the emergence of a lot more female coaches. It didn’t used to be that way. The definition of success is shifting and we get to create it. I have had a lot of success through sheer perseverance, but that kept me partially in survival mode – and I’m exhausted, Read more>>

Ariel Berger | Dog Trainer

“Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life” is a popular piece of advice that can create unrealistic expectations. Even the things you love doing will come with challenges, frustrations, and stresses—and turning your passion into a viable career brings its own set of difficulties. I much prefer the advice “do what you love, and work hard at it.” Every job requires work, but a job that aligns with your passion and values makes the work worthwhile. Read more>>

Ricardo Leonel Torres Huerta | Finish Carpenter

I created Leonel’s Custom Cabinets and Woodwork about three years ago, working out of my garage. I now have a clear idea of what my end goal is; I aspire to expand and open my own cabinet shop with the ability to employ and teach others about cabinetry. At the end of my professional career, I hope that Leonel’s Custom Cabinets and Woodwork becomes a renowned name in the cabinetry business. Read more>>

Brianna Stockwell | Artist & Marriage and Family Therapist

My work-life balance has undergone significant shifts over the years as I’ve navigated my roles as a marriage and family therapist, mother, and self-taught artist. While I still hold my therapist license, I stepped away from direct client work after experiencing how mentally and emotionally draining it can be. I knew I needed to conserve my energy to be fully present for my growing family. Read more>>