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.

Claudio Ribeiro

Transforming and improving lives through the Art of Jiu Jitsu Read More>>

Charlotte Mandeville

Honesty.

Honesty is what drives me, brutally, bitterly and sometimes risky.
Even in situations where it’s best to lie, I choose to be honest. Being honest doesn’t always get you where you want. However it will help get you to where you should be. If lying got you everything you wanted. You’ve probably stepped on or over a lot of people to get there. Success is only sweet when you take those you care about with you on the journey. Not using them as a stepladder like so many have done in the community. Read More>>

DJ STALIET

Many people assume that being a DJ is simply about showing up and pressing play, but it’s much more complex than that. What usually goes unnoticed is the extensive preparation, careful curation, and quick adaptability required to craft a great set. It’s about reading the room, shifting the crowd’s energy, and taking people on a musical journey without them even realizing it. Besides the performance itself, there’s the “behind the scenes grind”, the business side of things. That’s the branding, networking, promoting your work while staying up to date with new music from around the world, and still finding time to practice. What looks like a party is actually a blend of art, skill, strategy, and passion. Read More>> 

Krystina Sloan

Most people assume sex coaching is all about sex or being provocative, but that’s not really the heart of it. Working with a sex coach doesn’t mean you need to flaunt your sexuality. Often, it’s more about reconnecting with your joy, your pleasure, and the parts of you that feel radiant and alive. When you feel turned on by your own life—not just sexually, but creatively and emotionally—you become magnetic and naturally stand in your power and worth. Read More>> 

Crystal Riha

I’m from Tucson Arizona but have relocated to Tempe in the past year. I grew up in a very artistic family so I was always painting or creating some form of art. I continued to pursue my passion as I grew up and now it’s a passion of mine and favorite way to pass time. I’ve always been surrounded by people that keep me motivated in pursuing my art career, whether that be making purchases, sharing my work with others, or even just complimenting me on my art. I have a special place in my heart for each and every one of you who continue to support me. I would not be able to be here without all of you, so thank you, from the bottom of my heart! Read More>> 

Sema Cohen

I’m from Seattle, Washington. I grew up working in my family’s retail business, which taught me early on that if you start something, finish it. Retail became second nature to me, and it gave me a strong work ethic and the confidence to handle challenges without fear. Besides making me unafraid of challenges—it became second nature to step up and figure things out. Those years really shaped me. Read More>> 

Wendy Raisanen

Artmaking has been my outlet of expression since I was a kid. I did try other jobs as a younger adult, but they didn’t last, and I was usually bored. I’ve always painted or sewn things, though, and went to Arizona State University to study art, took all the art classes I could, and ended up with a sculpture degree. I just fell into the job working at Scottsdale Arts (then Scottsdale Cultural Council), working part-time, and have worked there for over 30 years, for SMoCA and Public Art. Read More>>