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.

Shannon Sanders, Jr. | Coffee Curator & Storyteller

Cape Coast Co. was inspired by my Granddad’s journey and the Cape Coast Coffee House he built and still runs in Ghana. His coffee shop became more than just a business—it’s a place for connection, storytelling, and community. Seeing how meaningful that space was to the people around him sparked the idea to carry that legacy forward and create something that could reach more people. Building this business has taught me that progress isn’t about perfection but persistence. It’s about embracing challenges, adapting to change, and staying true to the purpose behind your work. For me, that purpose is simple: sharing moments of connection through coffee and celebrating the stories that bring us all together. Read more>>

Owen Tower | Lead Singer of the Tower Brothers

I think I can speak for both my brother and me when I say that our biggest inspiration has always been our parents. Throughout our lives, our mom and dad have stood by our side, constantly encouraging us to strive for more and be the best versions of ourselves. Much of my motivation comes from their unwavering support and the subtle, yet powerful, sense of responsibility that comes with knowing people truly believe in you. We’re also deeply inspired by our listeners. The thought of complete strangers listening to our music on the daily blows my mind. I want to keep pushing out content and music for those people who like us. Read more>>

Galey Grimes | Interior Designer

As an interior designer, I am inspired by the art of storytelling through space. Each project is an opportunity to create a narrative, where every texture, color, and piece of furniture tells a unique story. I draw inspiration from a blend of timeless design principles and contemporary aesthetics, constantly seeking a balance between sophistication and comfort. The beauty of nature is a constant muse – the serene flow of a river, the organic texture of stone, the calming palette of a sunset. These elements ground my designs in harmony and tranquility. I also find inspiration in art, architecture, and the world of haute couture – how fabric, form, and structure can seamlessly integrate to create something elevated and purposeful. Read more>>

Hope Bass | Balloon Artist

Being consistent when it comes to inventing/believing in myself and keeping the creativity juices flowing. Even if it’s been 3 months since your last client, keep practicing, perfecting, and investing in your craft. I’m always thinking of/drawing new ideas and services I can do. Read more>>

Samantha Foster | Owner & Founder of RoundAbout Kids

One piece of conventional advice I disagree with is “Keep emotions out of your business.” As a mom of three and children’s brand founder, I’ve learned that leading with heart is actually one of my biggest strengths. I’m not just building a brand; I’m creating something that aligns with my values and serves families like mine. When I let my emotions guide decisions—whether it’s designing products that solve real problems for parents or connecting personally with my customers—it builds trust and loyalty. Taking risks is part of the journey, but when those risks are fueled by passion and purpose, they feel less like gambles and more like meaningful leaps forward. Business isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people, and leading with empathy has been my most valuable strategy. Read more>>

Ainsley Brock | Lifestyle Creator & Mother

I think having to niche down is the worst advice you could be given. When you force yourself into a box, you walk away from so much potential. If you’re only willing to operate in your 100 square ft niche, you’ll regret the 16000 square ft mansion of opportunity. Read more>>

Kaleisha Walker | Kaleisha Walker, Casting Director (director of casting dreams and helping them come true), Location Scout

Success. That tends to be the end goal for a majority of people. But, what does success mean to you? What does it look like for you? First and foremost, it’s incumbent on you to identify and determine what success means and looks like to you before you can achieve it. Otherwise, you may spend your entire life trying to attain this noun called “success” without ever achieving it. Read more>>

Autumn Stokes | CEO and Founder of Katoria S. Kosmetics LLC

The end goal would be to own successful, flourishing, and growing companies while also giving back to the Memphis community, the mental health community, and most importantly, the black & brown community! I truly am an advocate when it comes down to supporting a cause that is beneficial for the mental health community and the black & brown community. Professionally, I want to own and create several businesses that align with my interests and support a cause that I advocate for! I can see myself going down the creative lane, such as coloring books, markers, crayons, paint/paint accessories, creative studios for individuals, etc. I also see myself professionally catering to the music world as well in a creative aspect, such as a coffee shop with live music from locals, music scholarship for individuals interested in pursuing the music industry, incorporating music programs into schools, etc. Read more>>

Bonnie Surie | Self-Relationship & Life Journey Mentor

This question is fascinating, and I’m in awe when I recall the amazing connections. I clearly see how my childhood and upbringing were preparing me to do the work I do today. I was born and raised in Utah. I would groan about being stuck in the car with my dad, forced to listen to his talking tapes. Motivational speakers and inspiring stories from the Chicken Soup for the Soul series would vibrate through the speakers. It didn’t matter how tight I plugged my ears; the messages somehow made their way to my young eardrums. Read more>>

Bella Logan | Model

Clarksdale, Mississippi, a quaint town in the delta, is the place of my birth and upbringing. My family has a rich heritage rooted in the traditions of the South. Although my family did not possess great wealth, we formed a cohesive unit that esteemed diligence and the tradition of Sunday meals. The path has not consistently been devoid of challenges, yet the insights we cultivate and refine collectively as a family are priceless. To add, as I grew into my sexuality, unknowingly, I started to exhibit traits and characteristics of someone who in my environment classified as gay without them ever confirming. Regardless of your acknowledgment, if you were like me or anything close to it, you experienced a significant amount of bullying, a challenge I also faced during my adolescent/teenage years. Conversely, I encountered considerable rejection from both my peers and family regarding my sexuality when I ultimately chose to embrace my authentic self; many wielded the Bible as a means to ostracize me and my identity. It is among the factors that solidified my resolve and distanced me from organized religion, particularly Christianity. Read more>>

Teja Moore | Skin Correction Specialist & Spa Owner

Work-life balance has been one of the most dynamic and challenging aspects of my life. Being a mother of three and an entrepreneur who has owned my own business for four years, I’ve learned that balance is an ongoing journey. Each stage of motherhood brings new changes, and balancing those with the demands of running a full-time business has required constant adjustments. Despite my experience, I still find myself working toward that happy medium, where both my family and my business can thrive. Read more>>

 

Spencer Wingate

Balancing my work life is being able to experiment with different art forms while also giving time to making a final product. Being able to shift the focus to both of these helps me avoid burnouts and set deadlines for myself to complete a piece. Read more>>