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.

Dani Toralla

Studying music is already a risk to take; and in my case even more, because I didn’t just choose music, I chose jazz. We are often surrounded by family and friends who encourage us to pursue a career in medicine, engineering, architecture… the traditional paths that are supposed to guarantee you stability and a decent paycheck at the end of each month. Read More>> 

Paige Freed

I started my career in corporate marketing strategy in investments at 21, and quickly learned the correlation between ‘high risk, high reward’ was applicable across all aspects of life. I had no idea what I was doing my first day on the job, but my hiring manager saw something in me and hired me anyway. Read More>> 

Michael Garrett

Our work is built around a simple idea: help people before a small problem becomes a crisis. Through Trusted World, we partner with teachers, police officers, and case managers—the people who often see the first signs of struggle. When they identify a need, we provide clothing, food, and essential items at no cost, so families can stay focused on stability instead of survival. Read More>> 

De’Jion Guidry

What makes me happy is seeing happiness unfold — in myself and in others. There’s something powerful about knowing you can shift someone’s day for the better. Joy is contagious, and I try to live, laugh, and love in a way that helps others feel that same authentic happiness. That’s what I live for. Read More>> 

Catalina Currea

For most of my life, I was told that art wasn’t a “real career,” that I needed something secure before even thinking about becoming an artist. But the moment I decided to return to my art in 2021, I knew I had to do it with my whole heart. Read More>> 

Nate Green

I was an engineer for a lot of years and never thought I had much creative skill. When COVID hit, I would get together with some friends who were artists and we would all paint together outside-painting for a few minutes before passing the painting along to the next person. That time really unlocked something in me. Read More>> 

Martha Montelongo

My work-life balance has changed a lot over the years. As a teacher, a mom, and a photographer, I often juggle multiple responsibilities at once, and there have definitely been times when it felt overwhelming. Early on, I struggled to find a rhythm, and I sometimes felt like I was falling short in one area or another. Read More>> 

Aamir Tinwala

My idea of “balance” has shifted a lot over time. I don’t really believe in the traditional work-life split—if I’m labeling something as “work,” that usually means I shouldn’t be doing it. The things I commit to, whether it’s building Ascynd or running conservation initiatives, are things that actually fulfill me. They energize me instead of draining me. Read More>>