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.

Johnny Blayz | Marketing Specialist & Content Creator

My favorite quote is from Mark Twain: ‘Find a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life.’ This really resonates with me because, as a social media manager, marketing specialist and content creator, I’ve turned my passion into my profession. Every day, I’m doing what I love—capturing moments, telling stories, and building brands. It doesn’t feel like ‘work’ because I get to create, problem-solve, and make an impact through my skills and vision. This quote is a reminder that when you’re driven by passion and purpose, the hard work becomes rewarding, not draining. It’s about loving the journey as much as the destination. Read more>>

Setra Sundahta | Music Producer, Songwriter, Health Guru & Muse

According to my daughter (who is now grown), one of the most important things I did as a parent was letting her work out her own solutions to challenges. Her father and I separated when she was about five years old. He lived close by and would pick her up sometimes to spend the weekend with him. Ordinarily, he’d bring her back on Sunday evening, come inside and give her a big hug goodbye. On one particular evening, as soon as I opened the front door, he turned to walk away, without even saying goodbye to her.
“Aren’t you going to come in and say goodnight,” I asked. Read more>>

Christena Shreve Elza | Garden Designer, Writer, Yogi

One of the most important values that I have in my life, is determination, which is equal to never giving up on yourself. It is something that was inherent in my being and one that has resonated with me my entire life. It has been instrumental in my career and has allowed be to create the life that I now living, one which brings me pure happiness and joy. Determined to live my life the way that I want, has been instrumental in being the entrepreneur that I have became. Creating this amazing life and watching it unfold as I get older has been thrilling to experience. Read more>>

Krazey Jakey | Artist & Wellness-Recovery Speaker

It’s all about connections. It’s sad to say it but you can have all the talent in the world and still not make it! Read more>>

Tommy Glover | Executive Producer / Director / editor

How important editing is to completing the production, most focus on the filming and acting, but they forget that the editing is one of the most important parts of the complete production. “Get you a good editor” Read more>>

Laurel R. Elliott | Culinary Enthusiast and Consultant

Find the people who make you shine and bring out the best in you and keep them close. It’s important that as we grow in business and in life that we become increasingly selective about who we share our space with. This decision can make or break you. Reciprocity within your curated circle is always important. If you take the time to develop relationships with people who are complimentary to your life and business journey, you will never be alone and success will always be your friend. Don’t only seek to surround yourself with people who share all of your views, but surround yourself with good people. Surround yourself with independent free-thinkers. Read more>>

Furaha Sadi | Congolese singer, songwriter and producer

I’m from DR Congo, where music is woven into everyday life; we grow up dancing, singing, and creating rhythms with whatever we find around us. This vibrant culture has deeply shaped who I am. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, I blend Pop and Jazz with my Congolese roots to share that sense of joy and rhythm I grew up with. My goal is to showcase my culture’s richness and spirit through my music. Read more>>

Rolston Gabriel | Vegan & Gluten-free Gourmet Kettle Corn Company

Queen City Poppin is more than just a tasty snack—it’s a deliciously balanced, vegan, and gluten-free option that combines a sweet, salty, and buttery flavor to bring joy to our customers while prioritizing their health. Popcorn is a natural source of fiber, which can support heart health and overall wellness, and we’re committed to offering a snack that aligns with these benefits for our local community and customers worldwide. Read more>>

Gina Boykin | Founder and Primary Music Junkie

I started Live Music Junkiez to have a bigger platform for doing what I was already doing – encouraging people to see live music. I personally discover incredible talent on a regular basis and it brings me joy to share that experience with others. Read more>>