We asked some of the city’s hidden gems to tell us about what they feel is the most important factor behind their success.

Yassien | Comedian & Videographer

Resilience. Losses happen, A LOT. I just take them straight up and keep it moving. I officially started releasing comedy content online 5 years ago, and for every funny thing you see me put out, there’s also an un-funny video/song/etc. that countless hours were spent making. Those will never see the light of day of course, but being able to continue after “wasting time” is what I think brought me this far. Read more>>

Jessica Gram | Hair Colorist/Balayage Specialist

I truly am in love with my craft. Hand painted work is a beautiful, delicate art. Like a fingerprint, balayage is equally unique to the individual. I think my success comes from my passion for my craft. In turn my clients get to visualize that commitment everyday in the mirror. Read more>>

Macy Frazier Charlye Michelle | Hosts of The Witch Bitch Amateur Hour Podcast

We started The Witch Bitch Amateur Hour in the hopes that it would help others learning on their own spiritual/witchy journeys. The world of metaphysical study is VAST, and it can be overwhelming regardless of if you’re a beginner or a long time practitioner. However, the podcast has since created a safe space and support network for witches of all levels of experience to come together and discuss witchcraft, as well as even their lives and accomplishments. It’s created a space for witches alone in rural areas with no one to talk to about their craft to connect with other practitioners and ask questions without being looked down upon. While we didn’t do it on purpose, we created a sense of community, and time and time again we’re told that people feel like we’re friends and that they know us. This makes us so happy each time to hear, because that’s all we could ever want. They’ve accepted us for who we are, and our listeners know that we will accept them as they are, too. Read more>>

Doug Frerich | Realtor & Lover of The Outdoors

I would have to say family. My family has always supported me in my career decision 100%, even when things weren’t going well which as we know they always don’t. There are speed bumps in life, but when your family is there to help you through them is the most import thing. Sunbrero has been in the works for several years and my family are the main backers in getting the product to market and believed in my product. Read more>>

Maria Jackson, DDS | Owner/Dentist at Empower Dental

The most important factor behind my success is without a doubt my support system aka my family. Without them, I would not be where I am today. Whether it be talking dental shop with my father and brother, both successful dentists themselves; strategizing marketing and advertising ideas with my longtime boyfriend; or just chatting about the day with my mother, it has been important to me to have a strong group of people around me. It sure makes the day easier when you know you have someone you can call who will be your biggest cheerleader. We can get stuck in our own heads some days so it is important to have an outlet who will be your sounding board. Read more>>

Genesis Amaris Kemp | Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Enthusiast/ Author / Motivational Speaker

Stepping outside of my comfort zone, being willing to pivot, and listening to feedback from trusted sources such as mentors who are established in their respective areas. Not waiting on others to co-sign my dreams and start taking actions today to secure a better future. Read more>>

Eric James | Luxury Home Fragrance Designer

That I have built a good reputation in my area. I have build amazing relationships with local vendors that want to work with me again. Clients refer me to their friends. It’s great to be a referral-based vendor that well known in my area. I feel like that is a success in my brand. Being well known. Read more>>

Jackie Johnson | Owner / Chef

The most important factor of our success is our faith. Business has challenges, ups and downs. Our faith is what kept us moving forward. We couldn’t see ourselves up and running and being a successful restaurant in the beginning. But we had to BELIEVE without proof. We believed in our product. We taught our staff to go over and beyond, and we knew the personal touch would equal repeat business through word of mouth marketing from our customers. You have to believe in yourself, your vision, and your business. Read more>>

Deonte Epps | Creator, Producer, Cohost – The Duo | Sports and Stuff Podcast

I believe the most important factor is our authenticity. The idea behind our podcast was always about two best friends talking about their favorite things in the world; sports, video games, and superhero movies. Only differences is we are we recording for the world to listen. It’s really been fun thus far and we can’t wait to see the what this can grow to be. Read more>>

DJ SaucyD | DJ & Producer

The skill level I have as a DJ and being a natural networker. This holds so much importance behind my success because I always try to make sure I connect with anyone I can to boost my career in music and it never fails me. Every time I have a gig or I am just simply showing up to an event to support others, it always benefits for me in the end because I am given a chance to show off my skill. Within in doing so, I solidify a connection. It’s what keeps me going as a DJ in the creative scene. Read more>>

Shampaigne Graves | Founder of Bold Babes Co

The most important factor behind the success of Bold Babes Co has been collaboration. One woman cannot build and sustain a business with just $20, but a collective of women can pool their resources to grow a grassroots community that helps all millennial launch and grow their own businesses. We will be in business for 3 years as of July 2021 and collaboration has not only been the number one factor of the success of Bold Babes Co but it is also a key pillar in the operations of the business. Read more>>

Adam “AJ” Jefferson | Freelance Photographer

I feel the most important factor behind my success is “word of mouth.” The sharing of the experience of what I do that other people relay is immeasurable. Read more>>

Patrick Hall | Founder/CEO of A Change Is Coming Scholarship Fund

The most important factor for A Change Is Coming Scholarship Fund is helping black students of all ages reach their educational goals. We take pride in seeing black students succeed!. Read more>>

Cindy McIntyre | Proud Supporter of Love & All Things Wedding aka Wedding Planner

Easy one, 100% full transparency. As a business owner I have had to have difficult conversations with clients and I don’t try to sugarcoat anything. They are hiring our team to be an advocate for them and we need to do just that. Read more>>

Leesa Epperson | Realtor

The most important factor behind the success of my business is God! Trusting him and his guidance is what has got me where I am today in my business. Another important factor are my clients. I am inspired by each one of my clients and the hard work and dedication they have put into making home ownership a reality for themselves. Read more>>

Destiny Sosa | Photographer & Graphic Designer

The most important factor behind my success would have to be that I’ve never doubted myself. I could name many other factors that have contributed to my success, but being optimistic is what has led me to where I am today. What you believe about yourself will be your outcome. I am strong believer that we are capable of achieving anything in life, as long as we believe that it is possible. Naturally, I have always been an optimistic person, so even when challenges come I don’t allow myself to stay in a negative place for too long. A positive mindset is key. Read more>>

Kari Loth | Wedding Planner

I think there are many reasons why my wedding planning business, Southern Bash, has found success in just a few short years. 1. I only take about 24 weddings a year, so each wedding gets the personal touch it deserves. 2. Whether my couple met at 15 or 50, I get to know and love my brides and grooms and they become like family. 3. I realize that each wedding day is about the marriage, not just the wedding, and I am honored and blessed to be a part of every event I plan. 4. I offer partial planning and full services, as well as add-ons such as rehearsal dinners. This is your time not to worry or stress the details! 5. You can expect excellence, organization, attention to detail, and fun, combined with a touch of southern class. Read more>>

Harrison Hoof | Senior Vice President, Intermodal Cartage Company-DFW Region

The most important factor behind my success has been my desire to grow, my desire to learn and my willingness to take on challenges that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. I also believe that my ability to develop and help my staff at Intermodal Cartage continue to grow and reach their full potential has also aided in my own success. We are always seeking out the most efficient and effective new tools and technologies to improve our business and our service to customers. Read more>>

Kat Scheurer MS, RD, LD, CPT | Registered Dietitian & Personal Trainer

I would say the most important factor behind the success of my business thus far is attributed to building the “like, know and trust” factor. It’s very important to me that my clients feel comfortable and feel like they know me as a person and a professional during our visits. I find this makes for a calm environment during sessions and more likely to lead to laughs, good memories and positive outcomes for the client. Read more>>

DeVon Stevenson | Owner & Operated

Most important factor is family, with my parents an wife understanding and believing in me and trusting the process was huge. Knowing I have the love and support from my wife and parents I knew the brand would be very successful. Read more>>

Karla Maldonado | Dance Instructor/Entrepreneur/Economist

Passion! Nothing brings me more joy and happiness than teaching classes. I absolutely love dancing but teaching became my passion. Teaching involves connecting with my students in a different level, trying to break their individual code in order to help them, not only in the dancing area but in their personal life as well. Doing everything with passion has allowed my business to grow naturally and has allowed me to enjoy every single step since day 1. Read more>>

Regency Johnson | Salon Owner and Hair Stylist

I would have to say the most important factor behind my success was the fact that I never gave up no matter what life threw at me. There were a few time I had to start completely from scratch due to moving to different areas or having children and each time I had to restart, but I stayed consistent never gave up, and kept faith that God would get me there. I also have a very supportive husband who believes in me so much, that I still to this day 12 yrs in Blow him away with my work. With that being said success come from a belief that you can do anything you put your mind too no matter what it may look like around you. Be true to who you are and others with follow and support you!. Read more>>

Nicole Williams | Owner and Designer at Pink Ladybug Designs and Styling

When it comes to the Pink Ladybug Brand the most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is consistency and creativity. Always being consistent in my business ventures regardless of what the present situation may look like, or how I may be feeling I remain determined and loyal to my clients and do my very best to continuously give them the boldest , creative styles , as well as mastering the ability to bring their creations and ideas to life through my work. Read more>>