Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Lizzie Hillard | Destination Wedding Photographer & Photo Business Educator

Jesus! He is easily my #1 answer! Since the beginning of my life, He has carefully crafted each moment to end up at this one right now. I know I’m called to serve others through my passions and gifts God has given me, which so happens to be my photography business! Through prayer, steps of obedience, and the act of continually dedicating my business to Him, He provides again and again. I have no doubt in my mind that He is taking care of me. Read more>>

Eric Fortenberry | Founder & CEO of JobTread Software

I’d say the most important factor behind my and my company’s success is that my team and I have both experience working in construction as business owners, as well as experience developing software to solve real problems. We aren’t just construction guys trying to build a software app and we aren’t just software guys trying to deliver solutions where we don’t fully understand the problems. We literally built JobTread out of a needs basis. Read more>>

Cassie Clayton | Website & Logo Design Expert

For me, the most important factor behind my success has been client referrals. Not only does this really make me feel good to know that I have made a client so satisfied that they want to share my services to their friends, colleagues and peers. But to be referred a client is a really nice validation that I have done a good job and that my clients have enough confidence in me to make the referral. It really does help with the new lead that builds a sense of trust before I meet the potential client. As always one of my passions is to really strive for customer satisfaction, so when a new client is referred to me I know that has been accomplished. Read more>>

Ray Young Jr. | CEO, Speaker, Author & Life Coach

I grew up in a low-socioeconomic environment where I faced various adversities and life situations that many people can relate to. I come from a single-parent home, my father was incarcerated, I faced homelessness, associated with street life, etc. These life situations lead me into wanting to give-up, depression, low self-esteem, hopelessness, in the juvenile justice system multiple times. I lived in the inner-city where I saw no hope or opportunities around me to excel in life. I had attended a total of 11 different colleges with no guidance or financial support, which left me frustrated. I failed many times down this path, but I kept striving. Read more>>