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.

Colleen Murtha | Birth & Motherhood Photographer

I genuinely hope my work is making a meaningful impact, both in my community and beyond. As a birth photographer, I know the images I capture evoke powerful emotions—sometimes positive, sometimes challenging. Someone once told me, “People aren’t used to seeing women in their power; it makes them uncomfortable.” That truth resonates deeply with me. As a society, we’ve censored some of the most beautiful and natural aspects of being a woman. Birth is universal; it’s how we all enter this world. Documenting and celebrating such a transformative experience feels like an enormous privilege and responsibility. Read more>>

Jo Heil | Community Organizer, Healthcare Worker, Musician, Reverend

Success means leaving this world better than I found it. Too often we equate success with money, notoriety and possessions and it sets us up for unhappiness. I choose to define success differently. If I can build upon the structures of those who came before and leave a better tomorrow for those who come after, I’ve been successful. Read more>>

Catherine Morningstar | Entrepreneur/Author

I believe taking risks is a part of life. Risks I have taken were job related. I entered a very male dominated television career after college. I moved across the country for a job. I moved back to Ohio for a job. I took a risk opening a coffee shop later in my life. I did it to create my own opportunity instead of being reliant on an outside business for income. Read more>>

Tracey Mannix Mannix | Mimi Designed Shirts and Greeting Cards

Ever since I was little, I had been taught to do for myself. I came from a family of eight, and paying someone to do something for you, was unheard of. From changing the oil in your car, to sewing your own clothes, if we wanted something, we had to do it ourselves. That was life, and I loved it. Read more>>

Drake Johnson Ii | Skateboarder, Photographer,

The reason I wanted to pursue creativity is because it’s what brings me joy, freedom, and a way to express what I see/feel in life.

My parents also encouraged me to do whatever it is I enjoyed in life because that’s what matters at the end of the day, so I feel like they played a big part in me choosing to do just that. Read more>>

Ruth-ann Thompson | Author, Belonging Whisperer and Kinship Advocate

For me the option is always to keep going. Even if you have to take a varied path from the one you began, keep moving forward. The title of my autobiography is “Dancing in My Tattered Pink Dress: Grief, Guts and Glory.” It is an encouragement to keep on dancing through this life, even if your legs are wounded, even if the music stops, just keep moving forward. Read more>>