We asked some of the city’s rising stars to reflect on what made a difference in their journey. We asked them to tell us about what they think the most important factor has been behind their success.

Gavin “rock” Rocker | Actor & Bodyguard

I would say consistency. I’m a firm believer in compound interest. Doing something right for an extended period of time will always yield positive dividends. I’m a hard worker and attack every opportunity with the same passion as I did i the beginning of my career. That consistent work ethic is huge for me and continues to help me elevate in life. Read more>>

Dallas Dodge | Cinematographer, Filmmaker

The most important factor behind my success thus far in my career is my immense support system. The creatives I surround myself with never fail to lift me up and teach me new things. I owe it to them. I’d be remiss not to credit my parents as well. Each and every day, they support me in my creative journey as a filmmaker. They’ve instilled the confidence in me that’s required to stand out in the entertainment industry. Read more>>

Ramon Gonzalez | THRIVE | Coworking CEO

RG: I love talking about risk but I also have a lot of passion about the success of our brand, because it allows me to talk about our philosophy as it relates to our team and our customers, and how radically we try to express our care, compassion and love for both. I love talking about that, and I do think it’s a differentiator for us. Read more>>

Karma Sutra | Spoken Word Artist and Writer

The most important factor behind my success has been my authenticity. Believe it or not, I am very interactive with my followers whether it be on social media or in person. I believe it’s my authenticity and honesty that attracts people to my brand and allows people from all walks of life to find the relatability or connectivity that we share through the process of creative healing. Read more>>

Lizette Mendoza | Aspiring Small Business Owner

When others find my business and passions intriguing, my biggest hope is that they leave inspired. I pray that others can leave full of ideas and realistic ways to improve their home or enjoy cooking great meals without feeling any pressure to do anything other than dreaming with me! When opening up their homes with care, love, and hospitality, I want families of all sorts to feel empowered to love their homes without feeling intimidated by today’s expectations of what is good and necessary. Read more>>

Chase Buckley | Content Creator/Influencer

The most important factor behind the success of my social media brand and platform is authenticity. In an era where social media is flooded with curated, polished, and often inauthentic content, audiences crave something real and relatable. Authenticity, in this context, means being true to yourself, your values, and your audience. It involves sharing not just the highlight reel of your life or career but also the ups and downs, the struggles, and the learning experiences. Read more>>