We asked some of the brightest folks in the community to open up to us about the most important lesson their business or career has taught them. We’ve highlighted some of those responses below.

Jackie | Artist, Creator of Magical Youniverse

The most important lesson my business has taught me is to get out of my comfort zone. And that nothing happens unless I act. Being creative and creating art is amazing but creating a career out of it definitely means getting out of comfort, speaking to people, learning about business, going out there and embodying and sharing your work. Ultimately, what I’ve learned and continue to learn is that self belief will get you so far, so we have to keep believing in ourselves and know that we are capable of amazing things, so we have to stop sleeping on our potential and get working! Read more>>

DJ Drez | Artist & Ambassador of Sound

One of the most important lessons that I’ve learned in my career is that it’s crucial for me to play and create for my own growth and happiness first. The music then overflows to anyone who wants to hear. Within that, another big lesson is that levels of success, money, fame and health fluctuate like waves. Playing to play is more important than playing to win. Read more>>

Nathan Javidzad | Talent & Production Manager / Performer

Working in the Events Industry, hard deadlines are set and the clock doesn’t stop till you meet the goals of any particular event that the value has been created for. If you hear what it is that your customers need and provide service for the value of what you believe in and stand for versus making the money that comes with it… success will come naturally. Read more>>

Aline Andrade | Producer/Writer/Director

On January 1 2024, I attended a new year’s party and had an unexpectedly deep conversation with a wonderful woman who turned out to be a Rabbi and Palm Reader. She read my palm and, among other things, told me my career line had a clear strong curve that drives my meaning in life. I have to admit that statements like that bring clarity and context to what my life’s work has become through my core belief: growth is inevitable if you don’t quit. I think it’s similar for a lot of us in the industry: You get a Film degree and go out into the world wondering how you’re going to write and direct your movies. Read more>>

Patti Monson | Photographer specializing in equestrians and equestrian lifestyle

When I launched my photography business, I honestly never thought about the business side of it and all there is to running a business. I am learning to reach out to other’s whose expertise is in areas that I am not strong in and don’t necessarily like doing, like marketing and website building for example. Read more>>