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.

Penelope Malfilatre

Oh I have many favorites, but one guide now for me is : “people become interesting when you get interested”
To remind me to always be curious, listen. It s about shifting focus. Forget about what you think, what you hear or see, and focus on the other person, then a more authentic and rewarding interaction is possible, another world is just there. Let s grasp it! Read More>>

Michael “Tiny” Alcorn

For me, success isn’t a single destination or a specific achievement, but a continuous journey of growth, impact, and fulfillment. It’s a multifaceted concept that I measure not by applause or accolades alone, but by the positive influence I can have and the balance I find between my deepest passions. True success is about waking up each day with a sense of purpose, knowing that I am using my unique talents to contribute to the world in meaningful ways, both on screen and in service to my community. Read More>>

Christopher Lee

Besides deciding to work for myself, the most important decision I made was choosing to learn from people who were already doing what I wanted to do. Instead of trying to figure everything out on my own, I started paying attention to those who were a few steps ahead—watch their youtube channels, listening to their advice, asking questions, and just soaking it all in. That mindset shift—being open to learning and staying curious—made a huge difference. Read More>>

Eugene (prime) Odion

One of the most impactful books I’ve read is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I came across it during one of the lowest points in my life, when all I truly had to lean on was God. Santiago’s journey toward his “Personal Legend” spoke deeply to me, it reminded me that setbacks aren’t dead ends but part of a greater plan. Read More>>

Mahmoud AboBAKER

Firstly, Pre-Islamic Arabic poetry, or Al-Mu’allaqat (the Suspended Odes). I’m not just inspired by its antiquity, but by its raw, untamed power. This was poetry composed in an oral tradition, where language wasn’t just beautiful—it was a tool for survival, reputation, and memory. I’m inspired by its themes of fleeting life, destiny, chivalry, and deep lament. The imagery is so visceral: the abandoned campsite, the relentless desert, the unwavering code of honor. Read More>>

Katrina Carter-Journet

I am inspired by resilience and the way people rise when life gives them challenges. I am inspired by creativity and the courage to take an idea and turn it into something that changes lives. I am inspired by young people who are still discovering who they are and all that they can become. I am inspired by my children, Lana and Robert who keep energized and current. These inspirations fuel my passion for creating spaces where others can see their brilliance, step into leadership, and know they belong. Read More>>

Nilly

Consistency and Discipline. These are the core building blocks to becoming great in any facet of life. Read More>>

Tina Decker

Always trying to think outside the box. There is so much compitition out there you really need to look at ways of standing out from others. That means being open to all possibilities and if it doesn’t work then you move on to the next. Read More>>

Jack Menghini

Music has always made me happy because it gives me a safe space to fully feel my emotions, whether it’s joy, sadness, or just the need to move and dance. About two years ago, I discovered an even deeper joy in creating music myself. I was caught singing in a guitar class where I barely knew how to play, and my group encouraged me to perform with them.  Read More>>

Azucena (Bibi) Flores Pizaña

Working in the entertainment industry takes effort, dedication, and self-belief every single day. It’s not just about performing — it’s about creating your own projects, building a support system, and often juggling side jobs just to pay the bills. Being part of this industry is like being an entrepreneur every day: Read More>>

 Erhan Us

It was leaving the country where I was born, lived for 35 years, and once loved. In Turkey, where people unconsciously became more conservative, fell under the influence of political Islam, and where there was no respect left for personal space, my artworks and books were censored countless times by galleries, museums, and publishers. After years of struggling within that ecosystem, it no longer had any meaning, nor was it possible for me, as an atheist, to continue creating there. Read More>>

Stefanie Pollack

Here’s a revised version of your response with a more approachable, warm, and friendly tone:

“Growing up in Studio City, which at the time felt like a cozy small town just outside the hustle and bustle, has now blossomed into a lively hub filled with trendy shops and restaurants where people dream of living.  Read More>>

Zhitao Song

I was born in Beijing, and I’m an only child. When I was just 9 years old, my family sent me to the U.S. alone — and since then, I’ve lived in Missouri, Alabama, Ohio, the Bay Area, and eventually Boston, where I finished high school and went on to study at Berklee. Growing up without relatives around and moving from place to place taught me how to adapt quickly and rely on myself. That independence shaped not just who I am as a person, but also how I create. Read More>>