While it’s inspiring to read high level summaries of success stories, we think it’s just as important to learn about what drove the success and made it possible. We’ve asked some of the brightest folks we know to open up about what they believe was the most important factor behind their success.

Harriet Mordi-Omotayo | Business Owner, Event Planner

Emmanuel Signature Events is founded by God and owned by the Holy Spirit; this business was birthed after a 21 day fast, when I heard clearly from the Holy Spirit, that my kindness is my strength and I should turn my passion into resources. Read more>>

Amanda Lewis-Yarbrough | Licensed Psychologist

The most important factor behind my success is my support system. My husband, my family, my friends, and my team at AAPS have been integral in helping me to build my brand. Being an entrepreneur can be challenging, especially being a woman of color. Read more>>

Cory Martinez | Movement artist / Dancer

Though it sounds very cliche , it’s the hard work and countless hours behind the scenes that no one else sees that is the most important factor to me. Without that I wouldn’t be where I am today with the opportunities I have now. Read more>>

Ryan Raitz | Certified Personal Trainer, Nutritionist, EXOS Performance Specialist, Titleist TPI Golf Performance Specialist

The cornerstone of my success as a fitness professional is best defined as a seamless integration of passion, expertise, and connection. Imagine passion as the sturdy backbone of my approach—a reliable compass guiding every decision and recommendation. Read more>>

Ester Shamba | Co-owner of Gratitwood

We deeply believe that people look for more than just high-quality products; they seek high-quality customer service, trust, and communication. People do business with people, which is why we put a lot of effort into being reachable and transparent with our clients.  Read more>>

Mark Kueffner | Film Composer

Becoming a successful film scorer requires more than just proficiency and hard work. Building professional relationships and establishing a strong foothold in the industry takes years of dedication. Read more>>

Galaz Bibbs | Marketing & PR Specialist | Nonprofit Founder

Embracing continuous learning and evolution within my journey has instilled me with the ethos of being my ‘Own Boss’. This isn’t confined to entrepreneurship; it’s about seizing control of your narrative because, in essence, you are your own brand. Read more>>

Latrice Smith, Esquire, MPH | CEO & Principal Attorney

The real key to my success and our brand’s growth? It boils down to our non-stop dedication to growing, learning, and pivoting whenever it’s necessary. And let me tell you, the fuel behind this relentless drive comes from the incredible people I’m surrounded by: our leverage partners, trusted advisors, our enthusiastic teams, and of course, our invaluable clients. Read more>>

Corie Messer & Erica Ages | Co-Owners & Artists

The most important factor behind our success as a brand is our desire to ensure our Artists and our clients always feel seen, heard, and represented. Our team of Makeup + Hair Artists have been hand-selected, mentored, and supported by us for many years. Read more>>

Reed Knauth | Reed Knauth of Rosebud Studios | Watercolor Fine Artist

Being yourself! And putting in the work of course. Sounds easy enough, but I learned the more authentic and vulnerable you are with your work and your audience, the more they will love you and the more successful you will be. Read more>>

Eliah Jones | Content Creator & Creative Strategist

The most important factor behind the success of my brand is the ability to adapt and pivot. We often will do the same things while expecting different results. However, I was willing to constantly change my strategies and the concepts that I was implementing. Read more>>

Cameron Warren | Multimedia Producer and Artist, Multi-Instrumentalist, Videographer, Designer

I believe that the most important factor behind my success has been my belief in myself. Firstly, I have to give all glory to God. I have been blessed to have support from my family and peers who have been in my life. Read more>> 

Francine Voit | Co-Founder of Pistakio

courage. having the courage to start without any connections, mentors, and even capital. we produced our first dozen batches in a tiny dorm room, shot our first recipe videos/content in that dorm room with terrible lighting, & sold our first 100+ jars outside of the farmer’s market radius without any background in sales, production, formulation, photography, etc. Read more>>

Irene Diaz-Bazán | Journalist/Prensa Atlanta and Raices Magazine publisher

I believe that being a permanent student of life has taught me how to find the key to open many doors. Sometimes I didn’t like what I discovered there, but I enjoyed the adaptation process nonetheless. But beyond my own experiences through my 30 years working as a multimedia journalist, I discovered a lot of scenarios that have led me to appreciate the better things in life. Read more>>

Eric Giles | Saxophonist & Educator

I believe the most important factor behind my success thus far is sincerely building a relationship with people. Being a good musician is expected but it’s important to understand that a brand is only as good as how it makes people feel. I want people to feel seen and assured! Read more>>