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.

Liann Hinojosa

Success to me, is living with intention, a guide for who I want to be or accomplish. Intention is a daily practice vs goals are things to cross off a list. I strive to be a better person with my personal, and professional self. The quote I live by is the definition of a Greek word, Meraki. Read more>>

Kathryn Ikle

Growing up, I often felt judged. As a parent—especially through my kids’ middle and high school years—I made it my mission to build a nonjudgmental home. I wanted them to feel safe telling me anything. That doesn’t mean I never share my perspective; it means I listen first. I don’t interrupt, I don’t react with a raised eyebrow or a dismissive comment. Read more>>

Mary Gonzalez

As a parent and business owner, the most important thing that I have done for my children is show them what hard work and passion looks like. Running a salon has allowed them to see me balancing my creativity with responsibility. Which will hopefully inspire them to chase their own goals with the same dedication. Running a salon isn’t instant. Read more>>

Dennis Thomas

What are you inspired by? I’m inspired by everything and everyone around me. My God first and foremost — He’s the source of everything I have and everything I am. I’m inspired by my wife, Princesa Carolina Isabel, who stands by me and believes in me through it all. My children, family, and friends push me to keep growing and never stop learning. Read more>>

Día Monté

The way I see it as a performer in general, drag is one of the coolest careers because we get to spread joy! Nothing makes me happier than seeing an audience member of my show enjoying my performance and having a good time. Read more>>

CHRISTIAN MAUCH

Happiness for me isn’t about success or even connection in the usual sense. It’s when something beyond my control moves through me. Most of the time, songwriting is just persistence — showing up, experimenting, trying to force shape out of noise. But every so often, something happens that feels almost supernatural. A song will arrive all at once, fully formed in my head. Read more>>

Kristin Merron

I used to think balance meant keeping every plate spinning perfectly — business, motherhood, marriage, self-care — like some kind of productivity performance art. But over time, I realized that real balance isn’t about equal weight; it’s about intentional energy. There were seasons when I chased “doing it all” and just ended up exhausted, resentful, and creatively flatlined. Read more>>