While it’s inspiring to read high level summaries of success stories, we think it’s just as important to learn about what drove the success and made it possible. We’ve asked some of the brightest folks we know to open up about what they believe was the most important factor behind their success.

Jerod Bolt | Nashville Recording Artist / Songwriter

I think the most important factor in my success is God and just being authentic to myself and following my instincts. Branding for me happened naturally. Partnering with Six Hats Supply Company and Flag and Anthem Clothing lined up perfectly as the common interests were the same. Read more>>

Stephanie Johnson-Williams | Creative Designer & Healthcare IT Analyst

The most vital factor behind the success of Sistah Journal, and my personal journey as its creator, is the unwavering belief in myself, a deep-rooted faith, and an unshakeable trust in God’s divine provision. First and foremost, believing in myself has been the cornerstone of my achievements. It’s the self-empowerment fuel that propels me forward even when challenges arise. Read more>>

Kiki Halliday | Artist and Songwriter

The driving force behind my success so far is my open mind and open heart. Since I began my songwriting career at 18, I have been able to share deep connections with other musicians, producers and fans. Those relationships enabled me to create a network and support system that helps me thrive each step of the way. Read more>>

Jadyn Rylee | Singer songwriter Artist

I think the most important factor is to believe in yourself and to push yourself towards the goals you set. If you wt, then go get it! Read more>>

Hunter Dorton | business owner

We would have to say, our customers. They are truly what backs us up. When we hear positive feedback about how something they bought from us is changing their life or improving their overall wellbeing, it continues to fuel why we do what we do. We always want to provide our customers with the best quality products and care. Read more>> 

Lily Quinn-Hendrick | Owner & Head Wedding Planner

The most important factor behind the success of El Events is our clients. It sounds cheesy, but it’s a fact! We can post as much as we want on social media, advertise, and strive for greatness, but at the end of the day, our best referrals come from previous clients. Read more>>

Gabe Horton | Executive Director and President, Pawster Nashville

The success of Pawster is 100% due to the community who dreamt of the organization before it existed, volunteer time and resources to do the work, give advice and wisdom, and continue to work collaboratively to build a stronger community for animals and people. Read more>>

Dan Corio | Former NYPD, SCUBA TEAM, & Emergency Service Unit and current Singer, songwriter, guitar player and performer

The most important factor behind my success is perseverance and the ability to adapt. When I get my mind set on a goal I will be creative in finding ways to reach that goal through any obstacles that arise. Read more>>

Sasha Coleman | Wig Master/ Hairstylist

There are many factors that play into the success of my brand, but there is one in particular that will always be the main factor, God. Read more>>

Ben Nichols | Photographer

The most important factor is you have to constantly keep grinding. One of the hardest things that people fail to realize is that majority of them would want to take a day off and forget that they have a goal in mind with people who don’t have any aspirations or goals. Read more>>

Tentilldeath aka Rojelio Capone | Music Artist, Content Creator, and Future Human Service Worker

People and the tribulations of life. Without the people I have met or the people who have made the art that I have consumed, I would not have the experience to create or construct ideas for my projects. Listening to music from different artists, viewing art and graphics, and other people’s works have greatly contributed to what I do. Read more>>

Tia Cristy | Founder of Tips from Tia, Personality, International Best-Selling Author, and CEO of Ready Speaker One

The most important factor I accredit my success to is that I started Tips from Tia as a ‘trusted’ resource for lifestyle tips. I was tired of hearing that people would Google how to get a stain out of something or how to fix ‘this’, and they would get the wrong answer.  Read more>>

Jaymi Millard | the Pinkbassman!

I think the most important factor for success is a combination of a couple of things. First, (and I am going to sound VERY business here) It is important to honor your obligation to your customer-whether that’s an artist live or a producer requesting studio tracks. Read more>> 

Sarah `Bailey | `Percussionist and Band Director

One important factor behind my success is constant dedication. Keep working even if it gets hard. If you need to slow down, or even take a break, that is fine, but do not quit. Always pick back up where you left off and keep going. Read more>>

Sharen Rooks | Publicist & Business Professional

The key to my success lies in dedicating myself wholeheartedly to my clients and the causes I support. Operating with unwavering integrity and letting my character speak for itself is crucial. Over the years and across different professions, I’ve been fortunate to build enduring relationships that span generations.  Read more>>

Ashshahid Muhammad | Artist/Producer/Author

The success behind my brand is that I love to do it. Once I found my true identity as an artist, my passion for it opened many doors for me. Connecting with people with the same drive and motivation helped me grow.  Read more>>

Cassie Welk | Licensed Esthetician

Ethics. With social media and companies using wild marketing, skincare can be incredibly overwhelming. Especially when it is easier to “influence” people nowadays. I could easily sell the most expensive product on the shelf and upgrade each client to the most expensive treatment, but I don’t. Read more>>

Rebecca Robinson | Owner & Principal Designer

The most important factor behind business success is putting in the hard work. While we are a professionally trained design firm, continuing education is always on the forefront. Since education is important to me and helps us serve our clients well, we go to industry shows and conferences, we read books and take seminars. Read more>> 

John Dante | Musician

Never give up! Keep on truckin’ along no matter what life throws at you. We rock steady and walk hard. Read more>>

Malik Johnson M.K.J. (My King Jesus) | Christian/Gospel Hip Hop Artist & CEO/Founder of 10:15 Records

The most important factor behind my success is a strong team, and accountability. Having teammates who aren’t “yes men” that can correct you when you’re wrong, and wants the absolute best for you is extremely vital to success. Read more>>

Toby Cortez | Mountain Bike Park Developer and Founder of Summit Bike Academy

The single most important factor that fuels Summit Bike Academy is the passion all of our coaches have for the sport. This passion is not just a superficial element; it’s the ‘why’ behind everything we do. Read more>>

Serreta Boson | Pickle Lady

I honestly believe the most important factor behind my brand….MY FAITH IN GOD!! I have believed even when others would have quit. I have trusted Him even when I could not trace Him. And because of that… I have been my authentic self. Read more>>

Alison Moulder | Owner of Simplicity and Style Home Organizing

The most important factor behind the success of Simplicity and Style is our amazing team. We have 7 women who comprise our team and each of them brings a wealth of knowledge, talent and hard work to every project. We work together to ensure our clients homes are organized in sustainable ways that are beautiful too!  Read more>>