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.

Karen Fincannon

One of my favorite song lyrics is from “Anthem”, by Leonard Cohen. I incorporate this quote in some of my pieces. “Ring the bells that still can ring, forget your perfect offering, there is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” My interpretation of this lyric is to make the most of what you have, and be persistent even when going through a difficult time, without trying to achieve perfection. As an artist, sometimes there is the tendency to try to make “the perfect piece”. The same can be said for anything we attempt to accomplish in life.  Read More>>

Jackie Carr

The idea for PVO Pet Collective really came from my own experience as a dog mom. I have three dogs, and like so many pet parents, I’m always searching for the highest quality treats, wellness products, and gear to keep them happy and healthy. But I also care about aesthetics. And I found that most of the design-forward or trendy pet brands weren’t available in stores, especially locally. As an elder millennial, I still love the experience of touching and feeling things before I buy, especially when it comes to my dogs. I know not every product or supplement will work for every dog, and I wanted to create a space that allowed people to explore, sample, and discover the best for their pets without the pressure or uncertainty of shopping online. Read More>>

Melissa Cohen

Success to me means a couple of things it’s not only about the money or about making it big. To me it’s about the impact I make on the world as well as the personal fulfillment. It has always been a dream of mine to become a model. I’ve been a decently confident person, but I never thought I would have what it takes to become a model myself. So after putting myself out there and working hard to jumpstart my new career, it has been extremely fulfilling to see even the small success I have made in this tough world and industry. As a model, all eyes are on you.  Read More>>

Travis Haughton

Risk taking has always been a crucial part of my journey. In film, and especially as a director, you’re constantly making decisions that could push you out of your comfort zone. For me, risk is less about the fear of failure and more about the opportunity to create something unique, something that resonates with people on a deeper level. Read More>>

Leonel Alvarado

Taking risks is one of the most necessary decisions in any journey. Learning how to manuevuer in challenging situations is a key factor in finding the right path for yourself. I took a huge risk at a very young age right after graduating an early college. I studied and completed classes for Construction Management and started working at a local plumbing business but after a few months I realized it just wasn’t for me. One night I made the crazy decision to pack all my things into my Nissan Altima and move to Miami. No friends, no family, no job, just a risk and a leap of faith. Read More>>

Nilmar Atencio

I would love for everyone to remember the self-love we owe ourselves in all aspects, and to remember me as the person who, wherever I was, always talked about how important it is to eat well, to exercise, and that trying gluten-free and sugar-free desserts is delicious without having to sacrifice flavors.

People who know me know how spiritual and healthy I am, they often ask me if I don’t get tired of eating the same thing, but this is a lifestyle and it’s been like this since I was a kid. My dad is vegan, my mom always cooked everything at home. I cried seeing these important details that made me take care of my health today and now I can offer healthy options on the market to those people who need or like healthy sweets. Read More>>

Derrick Smith

Honestly just filming daily and documenting my process. I see life as a movie and everything I do throughout my day is a scene! Read More>>

Kaylee Murphy

The most important factor behind the success of my brand has absolutely been the unwavering support system behind me. After years of creating films for fun and for loved ones, it was the encouragement of my husband, family, and close friends that pushed me to officially launch my videography business, MyLife Media Videography, in 2019. They saw how much I loved videography and believed in the vision before I ever did. Read More>>

Tank McCline

Not making any excuses to get stuff done no matter what adversity I’m currently going through. Read More>>

Chani Carroll

The value that matters most to me is self-discovery, mastery, and actualization. Within that journey lies truth, authenticity, joy, and success. As a spiritual woman, I seek clarity and purpose in all that I do. Through my own unfolding, I’ve realized that the deeper I know myself, the better I can discern what aligns with me whether it be people, opportunities, or experiences. I truly believe that self-awareness is the foundation of a fulfilling life. When we understand ourselves on a deep level, we move with intention, attract what serves us, and create a life that resonates with our highest truth. Read More>>

Caryn

The end goal is an interesting thought. I am starting my art career when some may be near the end of theirs! But I do have an end goal. For about 10 years before becoming a full time mother, I was making edible art that had a very short shelf life. I moved from New York with my husband who is a native here in 2004. I came as a pastry chef and opened a small bakery in midtown specializing in wedding cakes, sculpted cakes, decorated cookies, etc. I brought my creativity and textile design background into this world and had the chance to create many beautiful (and delicious!) cakes that will live on in peoples wedding albums forever. I happily gave up that world after having my daughter 14 years ago and became a full time mom.  Read More>>

Bria

The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was choosing between staying in the security of a 9-to-5 job or stepping out on faith to pursue full-time entrepreneurship—while also being a single parent.

While working a traditional job, I realized I was giving the best hours of my day to someone else’s business. That left me little time or energy to fully invest in building my own. At the same time, I had real responsibilities—most importantly, providing for my child. Read More>>