There are so many factors that can play a role in determining our results, performance and ultimately our success, but some factors matter more than others. We asked folks what they felt was the most important factor driving their success.

Claudine Thomassians | Business Owner & Chef

I could say it is the food or the coffee, but realistically, anyone can do it. So while delicious food and drink has a slight part in it all, the actual foundation to success was keeping the community at the forefront of everything we did and continue to do. Read more>>

Alexander Novack | entrepreneur & professor

Before starting Syndicate coffee/kitchen/bakery, I was, for many years, a professor of philosophy. While rarified theory seems starkly removed from practice, it shouldn’t be. If it is, it’s a bad theory. The best theories are those that inform best practices.  Read more>>

Anthony Sertel Dean | Sound Artist

I am thankful to be writing this for “Shoutout” because I would like to shout out my generous and brilliant collaborators. My success is intrinsically linked to the people I create with. I often describe myself as a “hypercollaborative” artist since the people with whom I am privileged to share my work are essential to realizing the full artistic impact. Read more>>

Kayla von der Heide | Singer-Songwriter/desert photographer

I think the most important thing to me about all that I create is that I’ve created a world of my own to be myself, be safe in and play around in creatively. I would only hope that maybe it could influence others to find that part in themselves too that is unique to themselves and have fun with that. Read more>> 

Jonathan-Aubrie Lewis | Filmmaker, Writer, Motivational Speaker

I think for me, it’s my positive attitude toward service of my community, cast, crew and ultimately the audience. I’m a director / writer and I think at times there can be a stigma attached to what it means to be a “director.” It’s such a loaded word. In its purest form, it means: A person who supervises the actors, camera crew, and other staff for a movie, play, television program, or similar production. Read more>>

Neil Carson | Composer/Arranger and Saxophonist

Having a constant stream of creative output. As a composer, the key to fulfillment and success is always having a new song I’m working on, always focused on the next thing I want to say artistically. Artists don’t have anyone building their ca er for them, so it’s up to us entirely to keep reaching higher. Read more>>

Cindy Hernandez | plant artist

I firmly believe in the importance of trying. One can attempt and stumble, but the real failure lies in not making the effort. For much of my life, I heeded the advice of others, trusting in their wisdom, and often rightfully so. However, I’ve come to realize that tuning into my own inner voice has propelled me farther than I ever imagined.  Read more>>

Jesse & Karla Godinez | Realtors

The most important factor behind our success, both personally in our 29-year marriage and professionally in my real estate career since 2005, has been our unwavering commitment to integrity, hard work, and adaptability. In our marriage, we’ve learned that open communication, mutual respect, and shared values are the cornerstones of a strong and lasting partnership. Read more>>

Banke Bakare | Film & TV Producer and Camera Operator

Perseverance is undeniably a foundation of success in any career, particularly in the competitive and demanding field of filmmaking. As a filmmaker, I have come to understand that perseverance is not just about enduring challenges but also about maintaining a relentless drive toward achieving goals despite obstacles and setbacks. Read more>>

FREDERIQUE DECLERCQ | Designer of sewing solutions for everyday life

Since the beginning of this adventure, I am convinced that sincerity is the key factor. By this, I mean that I always create my products because I first need them; I am my first customer, and I take the necessary time to test my creations over time and in life to be sure to have the product truly adapted to my needs. I also have them tested by friends.  Read more>>

Ann Zhao | Editor & Director

Definitely the Passion and the Insistence. Since I was ten years old, I’ve been passionate about acting and directing. Growing up in a small town in China, this passion became my life’s purpose and led my in my life trial. Despite facing challenges, such as initially failing to secure a spot at the best film school in China, I refused to give up.  Read more>>

Bailey York | Founder of BAYLATES. Personal Trainer, Wellness Coach, Yoga, Pilates, and Barre Instructor

Human connection. My brand wouldn’t be where it is without making genuine connections with my clients. I have many loyal followers that have been with me from the start of my teaching journey and have supported my growth throughout the years. It’s really important to me that my clients feel my energy and love. Read more>>

Jerry Jackson | Gallery Owner and Curator

The most important factor behind my success/brand’s success is a combination of innovation, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the arts community, cultivated over twenty-six years in the arts nonprofit sector.  Read more>>

Rqltattoo

Behind my work there is a lot of previous study, I have dedicated my whole life to art, trying out techniques and improving them. There is a lot of dedication and constant work, keeping up to date and soaking up other artistic sources to get inspiration, not just closing myself off to what is being done in the world of tattooing, that way you create your own language and your own way of expressing your concepts. Read more>>