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.

Patrice Upchurch | Entrepreneur & Brand Development Specialist

One of my favorite scriptures is Hosea 4:6, which says “my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.” This verse reflects the reason why I have a business. My purpose is to educate people in any context where I am involved. Many individuals fail to pursue their goals or business ideas due to a lack of knowledge on how to achieve them. Read more>>

Aaron Lavelle | Gospel Singer

I think Risk is essential to your success. There is an old saying without risk there’s no reward and I wholeheartedly believe that. I am a gospel artist which can sometimes be interpreted as religious or traditional. Although this may be the case I pride myself in being peculiar as it relates to fashion, faith and music. Read more>>

Charlena Williams | Government Employee & DJ

I have so many things that I am exploring in the near future but currently I enjoy DJing because music brings people together. Music is a way of connecting and having a great time with people and should promote positivity. Read more>>

Chelsea Pierce | Reborn Doll Artist| Owner & Creator of Pumpkin Sparkles Babies

Upon beginning my journey in painting reborn dolls in 2018, I quickly observed that representations of uniquely featured dolls were notably absent within the reborn doll community. This observation prompted me to create dolls that embody characteristics such as prominent birthmarks and open-heart surgery scars.  Read more>>

Stephen Scott | Audio Engineer/Technician | Music Producer | Entrepreneur

The first habit that helped me succeed is creating a schedule for each upcoming week. Taking a day to plan and prioritize upcoming events and due dates has increased my productivity daily. Secondly, prioritizing work in the morning and personal activities in the afternoon. Read more>>

Whitney Stallworth | CEO of Premiere Tax Solutions

One habit that has been instrumental in my success as a business owner at Premiere Tax Solutions is my commitment to continuous learning. The tax industry is constantly evolving with new regulations and technologies, so I make it a priority to stay updated. Read more>>

Ariel T. Watkins | Choreographer and Author

Integrity is foundational to everything I do because it reflects who I am at my core. Being honest and truthful isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s about fostering trust and building meaningful connections with others. In both personal and professional spheres, integrity forms the base of my interactions. Read more>>

Ronniee Johnson | Sneaker Customizer & Artist

Honestly, the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make was leaving my hometown. I’m born and raised in Columbus, Ohio ( Go Bucks ! ) so leaving the comfort of having my family, friends and not to mention a few of my favorite hometown staples it was a battle I had with myself for YEARS. Read more>>

Katherine Chartier | Realtor

By far, the most important lesson that I have learned as a realtor is that your mindset will determine your success. If you don’t believe in yourself, why would someone else? Read more>>

Alex Duckworth | Hairstylist, Yoga Instructor, & Mom

2020 was the year my perspective truly began to change when it comes to work/life balance. I started working as an independent stylist in December of 2019. I was working three jobs at the time to make ends meet and to help rebuild clientele. I worked a few nights a week bartending, a few days a week at a blow dry bar, and in between, took as many clients as possible, and spent my free time networking and passing out business cards. Read more>>