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.

Victoria Ludaway

As an African American woman in the media and production industry—a space that’s historically lacked diversity and access—I knew from the beginning that my path wouldn’t be easy. But I also knew I wasn’t called to follow the traditional route. I was called to lead, to build something meaningful, and to create space for others like me. Read More>>

Tracey Artis-Farley

I’m CEO, music executive, speaker, philanthropist, and published author. I own JazJordan, Inc. and I Hear Music Inc., and I’m also the executive director of the Midwest Black Family Reunion (BFR). I’m known as a “heavy hitter” in the gospel music industry specializing in marketing, brand consulting, and radio promotions since 1996. Read More>>

Ashtyn Pharis

Pilates by Ashtyn was never just about movement — it was born from something much deeper. From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to create a space that felt different from your typical fitness studio.

I’ve always been passionate about supporting women — not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. That passion came from personal experience. I know what it feels like to not feel good as a woman. To feel disconnected from your body, to question your worth, to walk into a space and not feel seen or supported. Those moments shaped me. And they gave me a powerful purpose: to make sure other women don’t have to feel that way. Read More>> 

Casey Gillespie

Starting my own business was never about just basketball, it was about creating something real that had meaning. For me, basketball has always been more than just a game. It was an escape growing up, a way for me to tune out everything going on at home and really just breathe. I grew up in a home that has its fair share of disfunction and some of the same problems that people are facing today. I never developed the confidence to play ball in high school, but I did stay close to the game through city leagues and late-night runs on the outdoor courts at Ohio State University. Some of those nights went until 2 or 3 in the morning. Read More>> 

GKevin Kennedy

As a creative, there is a decision that has to be made nearly every day-The choiice to continue. No matter your passion, drive, level of success or skill, there is always an obstacle, a barrier-Something-that slows your progress and takes you away from the core of what sparked you to begin in the first place.
Whether it is business dealings, contract negotiation, a struggle to be seen and heard. No matter what it is, if it isn’t YOUR creative process it feels like a drain. Read More>>