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.

Kirsten Nicholson

Fortunately, throughout my life I’ve experienced moments where I was supposed to give up but kept going, and others where I held onto things I should have let go. With time and growth, I’ve learned how to recognize what deserves my energy and what doesn’t. If you view “giving up” as letting go for your greater good, it never feels like a loss. Read More>>

Tony Hunt

When you’re standing at the crossroads—keep going or give up—the answer isn’t found in feelings. It’s found in my person ethos. And I am forged in fire: Marine grit, Army discipline, and two decades of law enforcement resolve. You don’t flinch. You don’t fold. Read More>> 

Mike Hewett

Risk is good—when there’s a plan.

As an artist, I treat risk like a series of structured experiments. Before I start new work, I set intent: What am I trying to say? What would “success” look like—clearer voice, stronger technique, steady output? What would tell me I’m off track, and what will I change? Read More>>

Mayra Calvillo Azide

Risk is part of growth. Leaving a stable job to start my own business was scary, but I knew if I wanted bigger results, I had to step out. Every move I make is calculated-I plan, I prepare, I pray, and then I take action. Risks have shaped my life and my business, because without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Read More>>

Marisa Zapata

My success is primarily fueled by an enduring curiosity. I’ve always possessed an insatiable thirst for knowledge and understanding, a drive that has manifested in many areas of my life. However, nothing has captivated me quite like coffee. Read More>>

Paul Griffith

To truly succeed in any endeavor, it’s essential not just to find the right team, but to actively empower them to reach their full potential. The right team brings a mix of skills, passion, and perspectives that align with your vision, but it’s your ongoing commitment to their growth and wellbeing that transforms potential into excellence.  Read More>>

Vihaan

Efficiency.
My belief in efficiency started small, making sure my schoolwork, swim practices, and projects were always tightly scheduled. To me efficiency wasn’t just a way to stay organized, it was about finding smarter ways to solve every single problem. Eventually this belief in efficiency extended across just habit, weaving into my broader passion for sustainability. Read More>>