Stories, Lessons & Insights

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.

Diligence – Whatever you do, do well, and may success attend your efforts. It is a phrase I heard a lot in college and it has been very important to me. When things feel like they’re droning on and I haven’t quite gotten where I want to; This phrase encourages me to push on and try to be the best I can, with what I am doing. Read More>>

I think success lives at the crossroads between doing what you want and making a positive impact on others. It’s that sweet spot where personal joy and contribution meet. Success isn’t just about self-satisfaction. It creates ripples that benefit relationships, people, and communities around you. Read More>>

The Art for Change Podcast serves as a vital platform for artists across all disciplines, providing a safe and supportive space for them to express their creative ideas and insights. Read More>>

At Evolution Skincare, our mission goes beyond skincare—we empower confidence, education, and inclusivity. Our plant-powered products are thoughtfully formulated for sensitive, acne-prone, and melanin-rich skin, making effective care accessible to all. Read More>>

I want my legacy to be defined by the success of my family and my unwavering faith in The Most High God. For me, true success is not measured solely by personal achievements, but by the impact those achievements have on the generations that follow. Read More>>

In my pre-teen and teenage years, I was in an artistic environment that was highly competitive and full of confusing power dynamics. I also attended a very competitive Musical Theatre program in college. Read More>>

A common misconception within organizations is that marketing is a universally accessible skill. This perception often stems from a limited understanding of the discipline, primarily focusing on visible outputs such as promotions, advertising, and events. Read More>>

“By the end of my career, I want to be known as both an accomplished actress and a transformational acting coach—someone who not only left a mark on-screen, but also poured into the next generation of talent. Read More>>

The most important lesson my career has taught me so far is the value of adaptability and versatility in an ever-evolving industry. Working across different roles in sports business/marketing/media, event operations, and content creation has reinforced the importance of building transversal skills—whether it’s creative problem-solving in high-pressure situations, effectively communicating with diverse stakeholders, or using data-driven insights to shape compelling narratives. Read More>>

I am from Washington D.C. and the rich music culture there really exposed me to different genres of music. I remember being young, listening to GoGo bands like X.I.B., New Impressionz, and The Reaction Band and hearing these songs that I grew to love which made me seek out the original artist of those pieces. Read More>>

My name is Aharown Sparrow, I’m from Houston Texas but moved to Atlanta to attend Morehouse in 2011 and have been here ever since, I have been DJing since 2012 and continue to do so to this day. I have djed all over the world including Spain and Aruba and look to continue DJing for the foreseeable future. Read More>>

Hi y’all!!
I am Alexis Williams, beauty and marketing entrepreneur in Atlanta, GA. I am the owner of Head Quarters Hair Clinic and work as a marketing professor at Chattahoochee Technical College. And just when you thought my plate was already full, I thrive as a yoga instructor, leading thought provoking, body relaxing yoga sessions. Read More>>

Hi there! I’m a versatile artist with a deep passion for photography as my primary creative outlet. I was born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, and later moved to Atlanta to pursue higher education. I recently earned my Bachelor’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction (UI/UX) from Kennesaw State University—a journey during which I also gathered valuable marketing experience through internships and work opportunities. Read More>>

We are Mr. and Mrs. Walton of Walton’s Janitorial and landscaping, proudly serving Atlanta, Ga, and surrounding areas. For over 12 years in business we’ve been providing top tier Janitorial and landscaping services that shows in our online reviews. Read More>>

My name is Anthony, i am currently the face of all my brands coming this fall of 2025. I am an entertainer, but most of all my music is my passion and everything else just falls in line. What sets me apart from the crowd is, i am authentically myself. Read More>>

I am Antonio Santoro, a freelance publicist located in Atlanta, GA that helps maximize the brand message of my clients and secure the strategic spotlight they deserve. I believe we all have a story, it’s just a matter of who is telling it. Read More>>

Thank you for having me back! I’m Ashley A. Porter, affectionately known as Ashley Speaks, The Purpose Visionary. I’m a coach, consultant, and entrepreneur passionate about helping people and businesses thrive by unlocking confidence, faith, and purpose. Read More>>

I”m Bailey Weisser, owner of Hello Jude Photography- a newborn and family photography studio located in Demorest, GA. When I’m not taking care of my four children, I spend a lot of time with other families documenting all the beautiful chaos that young children bring. Read More>>

I appreciate this opportunity to reconnect with your audience! I’m BJ Orr; fearless partner and leader of a band of creative misfits reshaping the content industry in Atlanta. Read More>>

Bobbi Muzic, known as The Branding Lady, is a dynamic and creative branding expert renowned for her ability to transform and elevate brands with her strategic vision and innovative approach. Read More>>

My name is Brandi Fox and I have been an entrepreneur for over 14 years. I started my first business Pamper Us Mobile Massage Service in 2011 at the age of 21, which I have now expanded to 3 cities. Read More>>

Thank you for having me back! I’m thrilled to reconnect. For those who are just joining us, I’m Brandi Smart, and I own Empire Arts Gallery, a supportive collective of women and LGBTQ+ tattooers and local artists. What sets us apart, I believe, is being a chill space for tattooing and also bridging the fine arts community, to celebrate and uplift artists on both sides of the community. Read More>>

It’s great to reconnect! For those who may not know me, I’m Brenda, the founder of HouseLift Design, a luxury interior design firm based in Marietta. We specialize in custom home builds, renovations, and curated furnishings. Read More>>

Hi, my name is Charmaine, but readers and supporters know me as Unapologetically Char. I’ve been a multidisciplinary artist since 2019, and over the past six years, my art has connected me to countless homes, hearts, and lives. Through the use of my voice, hands, and words, I’ve created a life that once felt unimaginable. Read More>>

My name is Chris McCartha, a well-known investor, entrepreneur, mentor, and business coach from Atlanta Ga. What sets me apart from most is that I am an engineer by trade, enabling me to take ideas from concept to reality and solve problems from the beginning before they occur. Read More>>

I am Cornelius Newman, M.S., a Writer, Director, Producer, and Editor from Buffalo, N.Y. I and my long-time friend and business partner, Decarlo Tatum, Jr., started The Write Brothas Entertainment in 2017. Our slogan is “It’s OK to Imagine,” simply because it is, and, more importantly, it is necessary to prosper and be fruitful in life. Read More>>

Greetings! I am Courtney Brooks as know as CBROOKSART, a multidisciplinary artist , independant curator, muralist, art educator and founder of Journey of a Black Girl. I create spaces that amplify joy, healing and social solutions through narratives that reflect my journey as a Black woman, a creative consultant and advocate for artists. Read More>>

Hey, I’m Daniel Jefferson—Director, Producer, DP, and CEO of Sunray Vision Films.
My Brand Sunray Vision Films is a video production company dedicated to storytelling in every form—from commercials to feature films and brand projects. Our mission is to help companies grow their audience and create deeper, more personal connections through cinematic storytelling. Read More>>

My name is Danielle Southern, MS, RD, LD, and I am a Registered Dietitian based in Georgia. I created my private practice, Southern Nutrition, to increase accessibility to compassionate care. I incorporate Intuitive Eating to find ways nutrition can help people in their daily lives, and my goal is to help others discover freedom from food rules and restrictions. Read More>>

The best way I’ve found to describe myself these days is as a bard — I write, I perform, I create, I indulge. Whether it’s music or poetry or plays or podcasts, games or experiences, moments or memories, I am all about artistry that is audience-driven, connective, and fun. Read More>>

My name is DeAnn Wiley, and I’m the founder of DeeLaShee Artistry, a creative brand dedicated to crafting vibrant, inclusive art that celebrates Black culture, joy, and community. As a Black, queer, disabled woman, I bring my lived experiences into every piece, whether it’s a custom illustration, a children’s book, or a puzzle featuring my original art. Read More>>

My name is Derrell I go by Sketch I’m a freelance artist graphic designer and animator. My brand is Sketchnificent animation LLC . I specialize in helping other creators/ companies stand out from the crowd with logo and merchandising design as well original story animation. Read More>>

My name is Dr. Divad Miles and I would describe myself as an informaticist, consultant, and real estate professional. I am the Founder of Peach Bloom Collective, LLC which is a strategic consulting and wellness-focused firm dedicated to helping individuals and organizations optimize processes, improve decision-making, and embrace self-care. Read More>>

I am Gaffney Taylor, CEO and founder of Here There Be Healing, an innovative arts and wellness business in Atlanta, GA founded in 2025. Our mission is to create a transformative space where individuals can explore their creative potential while processing emotions and trauma through artistic and psychic expression. I envision a world where creativity becomes a tool for healing, empowerment, and self discovery. Read More>>

With over two decades of expertise spanning sales, marketing, business development, and management, coupled with ten years as a creative entrepreneur, I possess a comprehensive understanding of business dynamics and expansion strategies. Read More>>

My name is Hala Yassine and I am co-owner of Seven Sisters Scones and Seven Sisters Kitchen. Seven Sisters Scones is a specialty food e-commerce company with a cafe named under Seven Sisters Kitchen. Before you ask, yes, there really are seven sisters. Read More>>

Chef Jaaion Barnes. Native of Avondale, Louisiana. Former member of the Louisiana Air National Guard. Guest Speaker at the White House for their annual “White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities”. Read More>>

My name is Jahqwale, Founder of JahqsLocs. I am a travel loctician and Braider serving the metro Atlanta area. My passion is to serve others and to take care of their crown by providing quality service and showing Love to others while servicing my clients. Read More>>

My name is Jamenda Whitehead, and I am the owner and lead photographer at JAM&CO Studios. I’ve been in the industry for the last 8 years, and have been able to expand over the past few years, into both a wedding photography and videography brand serving clients in the immediate Atlanta area and abroad. Read More>>

What’s up world!! I am Chef Janay Terrell, born in raised in da heart of Atl (Grady Baby). I am chef making name for myself. I attended the Art Institute in 2007 and has been going and growing since then. Read More>>

I’m Janice Robinson-Celeste, the Publisher of Successful Black Parenting Magazine, the first national magazine specifically focused on supporting Black families and parents of Black children. Read More>>

My name is Jewel Baker, and I am a multidisciplinary artist based in Chicago. My work spans various creative fields, including Film Directing, Photography, Graphic Design, Event Production, and Model Coaching. Read More>>

Q: Tell us about your role in the real estate industry and what sets you apart.
A: I’m an Associate Broker and Realtor specializing in Atlanta and Decatur, dedicated to delivering exceptional service. Whether helping sellers move on, buyers find their next chapter, or investors and developers maximizing returns, I craft tailored strategies and offer personalized guidance to exceed expectations every time. Read More>>

I’m Jon’tue Cushion, the founder of Jon’tue Jeanene, my salon and primary business, and Vita Beauty Labs, a wellness brand focused on beauty from within. Read More>>

I’m a serial entrepreneur starting as a photographer then gravitating toward artist management, and now in music marketing. My agency, Clonefluence, is driven by results and getting artists the exposure they need to succeed in the music industry. Read More>>

My name is Kara, I started making face masks a few years ago but I’ve always had a passion for art and creativity. Currently I am not running my business but I still love creating and being in touch with that side of myself. Read More>>

i’m katya, a personal branding photographer and marketing specialist dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and professionals create strategic, high-impact visuals. i don’t just take photos—I craft a brand experience that tells your story, connects with your audience, and elevates your business. Read More>>
I’m thrilled to reconnect with you and share how my journey has evolved since my last interview with Shoutout Magazine. When we last spoke, my focus was on My Health Reassurance, a medical and wellness facility dedicated to providing holistic health solutions. Since then, I have rebranded, and expanded my vision as a Co-founder, with parnter, Jamesa Buchanan, launching Aesthetics of Fayetteville, P.C, a premier destination for luxury skincare, aesthetics, and wellness treatments. Read More>>

I was born and raised in Philadelphia, and art has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. I was the kid always doodling in class, so it felt natural to turn my passion into a career. After years of uninspiring retail jobs, I took a leap into freelance illustration, and I’m grateful it’s become both my work and my joy. Read More>>

The first time we spoke in 2018, I had recently made the big leap, quitting my day job to focus solely on my art practice. I had moved to an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, 4,000 miles from any landmass, to shed my corporate layers as an executive in the entertainment industry and to solely practice art. Read More>>

My name is Latisha Henderson, and I have been an entrepreneur since the age of 21. I currently serve on the North Baldwin Chamber Board of Directors and volunteer my time wherever it is needed. I consider myself more of a community leader rather than a “boss”. I have always enjoyed working with seniors and children. Read More>>

My name is Latrice, aka LtheChef and I am the CEO/Owner of The L Experience Catering. I originated in New York City, which is where I was born and raised and have since expanded to Atlanta, GA. Read More>>

Hi, everyone! I’m Lily Luchesi, USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy, horror, and paranormal tales. I’m also the co-founder and owner of Partners in Crime Book Services, where I provide professional editing and formatting services to authors and small-press publishers. Read More>>

I founded Glam Bomb over a decade ago after leaving an abusive marriage, creating a brand that gave me purpose and ownership. We offer bath, body, and skincare products, and it has been an incredible journey. Read More>>

Got it! Here’s the revised version:
Hi, I’m Lindsay Rayna Oliveira, the founder of Rayna Beauty, where we specialize in providing makeup and hair styling services for all occasions. I’m also a proud mom of two and a beauty entrepreneur based in Atlanta, GA. Read More>>
