We had the good fortune of connecting with Christiana Yebra and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christiana, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
I used to feel a lot of shame when considering whether to “give up” on a project, a role, a relationship, or a business. An unpopular opinion that I have, it’s ok to give up. It takes maturity and wisdom to know when it’s time to close one book and open another. When a business or role, maybe even a friendship, is no longer bringing value or happiness to your life, it’s time to explore what may live beyond it. To some, giving up may seem like the easier option. But in my experience, the projects, businesses, and roles I’m most passionate about are the hardest to let go of. This year has shown us that the entrepreneurial spirit is still strong. Creative ideas and solutions are bottled up and ready to be unleashed. If you’re feeling stuck, dig deep, ask questions, talk to friends, and if it’s time, turn the page to the next chapter. 

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m currently the CEO of a dating app called Vouch. Current dating profiles are like a too good to be true resume without any references. You wouldn’t hire a candidate with a fake photo and shady bio right? Why would be date someone with the same? Vouch challenges daters to be their authentic self by encouraging them to invite others to vouch for them. It’s a challenge to run up against the other big apps, many of them here in Texas, but I love being a startup and creating an impact in and out of Dallas. We just launched a new Youtube dating show that’s taking off called The Pitch. I jokinly call it Shark Tank meets the Bachelor. I’ve shared a lot of my own story both on Voyage and on many podcasts. I find that people relate most to my military upbringing paired with my ongoing desire to push for more. I’m on the hunt to find my dream job while taking on new challenges and roles along the way. Check out my website or social media for more on what I’m up to.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Downtown Dallas is changing and evolving so much. We have some great spots that are worth the fight for parking. Check out the new AT&T discovery center and stop by Commissary for a delicious avocado toast. The Joule is a wonderful spot to stay, stop for coffee, or just catch up on work. But if you had time for one meal in Dallas- stop by Invasion, an incredible, delicious concept created by my friend Chef Airric.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank Amy Scott. She taught me what great leadership looks like and offered me true mentorship for the first time in my professional career. She empowered me to make decisions and encouraged me to know the difference between giving up and having the maturity to move on, with grace. Thank you, Amy!

Website: www.christianayebra.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christianayebra/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianayebra/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_VXWBu-9tpQmTQil6j9amA

Image Credits
Photos courtesy of WFAA, Sekou Toure, Midweek Photography, Rachel Eiland

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.