While it’s inspiring to read high level summaries of success stories, we think it’s just as important to learn about what drove the success and made it possible. We’ve asked some of the brightest folks we know to open up about what they believe was the most important factor behind their success.

Lisann Valentin | Actor & Spiritual Coach

My audacity of ferocious belief. I have this voice that speaks in the center of my heart and it lovingly helps me to keep moving forward. That belief has been stronger than my human mind could ever conceive. That’s the only way I have been able to live my life as a storyteller through so many careers. Read more>>

Michelle Williams | President, SoCal Social Run Club (DBA, Dog Haus Running Club)

I believe the most important factor behind our success is that we serve our community. We are a social philanthropic run club. Not only do we work to provide a space for every body to make fitness a part of their daily lives but we deeply believe in providing a welcoming, positive, and accepting social network for all who join us. Though out the year we also partner with other nonprofit organizations in Pasadena, and the greater Los Angeles areas, in order to make a bigger impact on the world around us. Read more>>

Brandi England | Talent Management

I think its a big “why” to be honest. Having a reason behind working 14 hour days that lights your soul on fire (hence IGNITE) is the big one for me. Our job literally is helping people (most of whom have been told their dreams are crazy) to achieve those dreams. Its super rewarding. My personal why is to grow our agency to represent talent that can feel safe with us. Safe to disclose mental health struggles, disabilities etc without fear of being judged or left out of consideration for roles. We want to be a safe space for all actors, that is my why. Read more>>

Tierra Nettles | Founder

The cornerstone of my brand’s success is undeniably my unwavering faith in God. It’s been the guiding light, the steady hand, and the infinite source of inspiration behind every page, every design, and every word. My personal journey of deepening my relationship with God through journaling is the heart and soul of this brand. Read more>>

Lee Donaldson | Chef-Owner, Thai Restaurant

Originality. Some of the ingredients we found here are not the same as those in Thailand It doesn’t give as strong flavor as the Thai food made there. I guess it has to do with soil, weather, other regional factors. So, we decided to import some of these ingredients from the south of Thailand, where I grew up. In addition, one of the main ingredients of Thai cuisine is fish sauce, one of the four balancing flavors in Thai food. We are not shy to use the true flavors of Thailand. Read more>>

Patrick Razo | designer, builder, artist

I would like to think it is bringing a different perspective into each project. My most current project, BHUMEMOTO, a motorcycle brand encompassing building custom motorcycles, hosting meets, accessories, clothing to name a few. Our most current redesign / build is a 1965 honda supercub. The most common comment the we get is “What is it?, I’ve never seen anything like it!” Read more>>

Chadrick Fellers | Production Designer

I think the most important factor behind our success is simply doing well by people, and solidifying a good name for ourselves in the industry. We try to do good quality work, at solid rates the artists can afford. Being super transparent with the artist teams about costs, any issues, etc has been crucial as well in making sure we’ve got a happy client at the end of the day. Read more>>

Shelley Herman | Author: My Peacock Tale: Secrets Of An NBC Page

Decades ago, I read a book by the talent manager Ken Kragen titled “Life Is a Contact Sport: Ten Great Career Strategies That Work,” which changed my way of doing business. It is still available on Amazon. In addition to working with talent that included Kenny Rogers, The Smothers Brothers, and Harry Chapin, Ken was also instrumental in producing the massive events Hands Across America and We Are the World. I was more than eager to find out the secret sauce to his success, which was quite simple. Read more>>

Chae’ Jones | Actress & Content Creator

The most important factor behind my success is that I haven’t given up, and putting into perspective how I define success. It’s easy to quit and give up when things get hard. I could have gone back to my hometown and figure out another career path and been comfortable, but that choice wouldn’t lead to my happiness. The road I’ve been on hasn’t been easy, but if it was easy, would all the hard work really be worth it? Read more>>

Jared Rodriguez | Founder & Certified Trainer

There have been a few important factors which have contributed to my success. BE A STUDENT. Early on in my fitness training career, I deliberately chose to get paid less, work more hours, and LEARN as much as I could from those who were doing better than me knowing a brighter future was on the way. I wanted to learn more about the human anatomy, the in’s and out’s of programming, improving my verbal and written communication, my leadership skills, my ability to show up to work as the best version of myself everyday, and so much more. Read more>>

Max Tefilin | Jeweler

The most important factor behind my success is deeply rooted in my role as a father and a husband. Being present for my family and embracing the responsibilities that come with it has given me a sense of purpose that fuels everything I do in life, including my work with my business, Unique Jewelry LA. With over 40 years of experience in the jewelry business, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about mastering a craft or making sales, but about the love, support, and inspiration that my family provides me.  Read more>>

Nika Agiashvili | Writer, Director, Producer.

This is a business where you hear a hundred “No’s” before getting that one “Yes.” The key is to keep moving forward, constantly writing, and working on new projects. The industry is always evolving, but the foundation is always a compelling story. If you have a unique narrative and a strong voice, it becomes easier to open new doors. Read more>>

Endre Barath | Pet Friendly International Realtor and Land Specialist

I was a Captain in the U.S. Army in my younger days where I learned the importance of leadership, trust, ethics and flexibility. Those traits have carried into my day-to-day life, and my business. Clients must feel confident in trusting the advice they are given, and a realtor must be ethical and a clear communicator. Flexibility is also key as any successful and honest realtor will tell you, you can always expect the unexpected in a transaction. Read more>>

Adden Laughlin | Senior Manager at Additive Creative Partners (a Wheelhouse company)

I genuinely believe the most important factor behind the success of any business is the quality of the team. Apart from having a strong work ethic and of course, a strong set of relevant skills, I believe enthusiasm, excitement, and collaboration are what fuel real success. We are lucky enough to have that within our small Additive team, which allows us to have a significant impact for our clients, and is what keeps us coming to work every day with a smile and positive attitude. Read more>>

Jane U’ren | (she/her pronouns) Actor & Writer

Authenticity! I think the best way to create my best art is to be true to myself and my unique, personal voice. Read more>>

Jaspreet Singh

The most important factor behind the success of Crazy Folio Pictures LLC is the unwavering commitment to quality and creative vision. This commitment is not just a guiding principle; it’s the foundation upon which the entire business is built. Every decision, every photoshoot, and every interaction with clients is driven by a dedication to excellence and a desire to create something truly unique. Read more>>

Maria & Boris Blinderman

Adaptability and the way we pour our hearts into every unique love story are the key elements behind our success. As wedding content creators, we bring our rich cultural experiences to our work. Maria, born in the US but raised in Peru, carries the passion and joy of the Latin American culture. Boris, born in Moscow but raised Jewish in Chicago, carries the generosity and kindness of the Jewish culture. Read more>>

Zilin Zhou

The most important factor behind my success is a combination of determination, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. From the moment I conceive a new idea, I am relentless in my pursuit of bringing it to fruition. This drive is rooted in my passion for design and my belief in the potential of what can be achieved. Read more>>

San Clemente Art and Custom Framing

The craftsmanship that goes into our work and the relationships we build with our customers are at the core of our mission. Craftsmanship, for us, is more than just precision and attention to detail—it’s a reflection of our commitment to quality and excellence. Every piece of work we produce is carefully crafted, embodying our dedication to delivering nothing short of the best. We take pride in our skills and techniques, constantly honing them to stay ahead in the industry while preserving the timeless principles of true craftsmanship. Read more>>