By far the most common conversation we have with the folks we interview is about work-life balance. Starting a business or pursuing a creative career makes finding work life balance really tough because there is no clear start and end to one’s work day. We’ve shared some of our conversations on the topic below.

Ashton Koontz | Model, Wardrobe Stylist, and Photographer

I would say to always elevate, never get too comfortable and stay consistent. Often times, people start things and fail very quickly because they are not patient or consistent with themselves and the process. Success takes time and you have to put your all in everything you do. I want people to come to my page and be inspired and try something new they would never have thought about doing. Engaging with your audience and posting high-quality content takes you a long way. Read more>>

Natalie Barbu | Content Creator and Founder of Rella

The most significant factor behind my success and that of my brand is unwavering perseverance. Whether that has been with my social media or my business – perseverance has been the driving force that kept me going even when faced with doubts and challenges. I didn’t give up when things were not looking up. My advice to those starting their journey: Never underestimate the power of persistence. Keep moving forward, even when the path seems uncertain. If you look at successful businesses and successful entrepreneurs, the one thing they have in common is grit. They kept going even when they didn’t see instant results. Read more>>

Denise Focil | AS by DF Founder + Designer

Being Uncompromising on what we stand for as a brand. Uncompromising in our quality, our attention to detail, our product has to be perfect. Uncompromising in our dedication to be as sustainable and environmentally conscious when we create our product. Read more>>

Elijah Thompson | Producer/Political Cartoonists

My most important factor behind my success is that I stay true to my original intentions on helping provide jobs in the hip hop community. My colleague & I have reached many milestones with the local schools & communities. Read more>>

Stephanie Sturm | Permanent Makeup Artist & Trainer

I attribute the success of my brand to a couple of things. First and foremost the quality of my work is the most important. If my clients are not seeing the healed results that they are happy with they would never give me a referral and that is how I retain and gain clients. To ensure that I am providing my clients with the best possible brows I practice every day and I am committed to continued education, I will always be a student. Next, customer service is something that I think has made my brand much more appealing than my competitors. I create a relaxing space where you feel like you are catching up with an old friend. Read more>>

Elle Dimos | Dancer

It’s important to be a hard worker, and always put 100 percent effort into everything you do. Consistency is also important, by making sure you work hard every day, and not get complacent. Being a good person, and making sure you are nice to everyone you meet, and everyone you work with is also really important to me. Read more>>

Michael Mcvicker | Podcast Host and Lifestyle Coach

In my podcast, ‘Mr. Positivity,’ every installment is a source of enlightening viewpoints, uplifting narratives, and actionable guidance. The result is a revitalized sense of hope and motivation for our audience. The resonant tagline, ‘Staaay Positive!,’ reverberates within the hearts of those who tune in, serving as a beacon for embracing a life filled with positivity. You can stream the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio and many more! Read more>>

Tesha Smith | Muti Dimensional Artist and Creative

Focusing on building meaningful relationships and connections with others. Showing empathy, kindness, and understanding towards those around you. By making people feel seen, cared for, and valued, you can create a positive ripple effect that extends beyond your immediate circle. Read more>>

Raymond Hekmat | Prenup Attorney, Divorce Consultant & Mediator

I believe that the most important factor behind my success is choosing to do what I love within the industry I am in. I spent years litigating my clients’ divorces, and found the process not only emotionally and time consuming, but I also felt unappreciated by both clients and my employer. Once I started my own business, I now had the opportunity to explore practicing family law the way it aligned with my values – which was really helping my clients move forward in their lives instead of causing additional burdens of significant bills to pay. Over time, my practice shifted to focusing on prenuptial agreements, divorce consulting, and divorce mediation. In all of these aspects of my firm, I work closely with my clients to help them lead successful lives whether it is entering a marriage, or moving on after one. I educate and empower people on the financial and legal implications of entering or dissolving a marriage. Read more>>

Kamryn Hansen | Model, Actress, and Scientist.

Interestingly, I would have to say the most important factor behind my success was the way others have underestimated me. Having grit to continue to persevere through hard times and come back stronger. You are always going to fail at something but it takes failing to learn and grow in order to be the best you can be. Being a model in the industry of other amazingly talented people you are compared to and have to stay true to yourself and be okay with not getting accepted at a casting, but to keep trying. Graduating from college with a Biology degree and minor in Chemistry I was able to learn that it is okay and even necessary to fail. Read more>>