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.

Durb Morrison | Tattoo Artist, inventor and organizer

I have invented and patented several innovative tattoo products, including the industry’s first-ever steel tip disposable tattoo tube. This groundbreaking invention has significantly improved the precision and safety of tattooing. Read more>>

Todd Muskopf | Photographer: Retro Glamour, headshots, and senior portraits

When I first started out as a photographer, I worked any day I could get a job– weekends, evenings, whatever. As I progressed, I stopped doing evening appointments and eventually refused to work on weekends as well. My response to any weekend queries was “I’m sorry, but my wife has a crazy job and we don’t get to see each other during the week, so I reserve my weekends for her”. Read more>>

Jack Bradley | Attorney and leader

Surround yourself only with people that take you higher. People with negative thoughts and perspectives are never the right people to surround yourself with. People who inspire you will result in inspirational thoughts and actions. To move forward with anything in life, a positive attitude is needed and the people around you will either contribute or diminish that ability. Read more>>

Matthew Cossolotto | “The Podium Pro” — Personal Empowerment Author, Speaker, and Speech Coach

Some years ago, I came across a quote, often attributed to John F. Kennedy, that goes like this: “One person can make a difference and everyone should try.” The quote is all over the internet. I even have a coffee mug with that quote on it. Truth be told, it’s unclear whether JFK ever said those exact words. But it doesn’t really matter. I’ve always liked the quote. It’s a great motivator. Read more>>

Juliana Kokolari | Artist

I think if you’re doing something you genuinely love, giving up isn’t an option. I mean that in the sense that regardless of if you are making money, or showing as much as you’d like, etc, you’ll be doing it anyway. So why ever stop trying to make that goal work out for you in the end? Read more>>

Asia Smith | CEO Entrepreneur

“As a parent and entrepreneur, I believe the most impactful decision I’ve made for my children has been starting my own business. When I took the leap of faith and ventured into entrepreneurship, I wasn’t just pursuing a career; I was laying the foundation for a generational impact on my family, especially my two sons. Read more>>

Teddy Osei | Artists & Educator

I view risk as an essential and dynamic element of both my life and career. Embracing risk has been pivotal in shaping my artistic journey and personal growth. Taking risks is not merely about courting uncertainty; it’s about pushing boundaries and stepping outside of comfort zones to discover new possibilities and perspectives. Read more>>

Shannon Vance | Proprietress

I started Stash Style in 2001 as a retail boutique and in 2011 transitioned to wholesale. I pride myself on creating and producing everything in the United States. In our green initiative we recycle and reuse about 75% of our supplies to lesson our carbon footprint. For over 15 years we have been selling our vintage faded flannel shirts and denim which have a bit of a cult following. Read more>>