Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Michael Mendelsohn | Film Producer & Financier

Teamwork. Is there magic? Does the director have a unique and clear vision? Story vs. visuals. Making movies the studios and streamers don’t want to take the risk on. Read more>>

Lily Chehrazi Barrett | Designer & Owner of Togetherland

To boil it down to one thing is Trust.Trust in being unique, whether that’s in my designs or our angles for business development. Together is now 10 years old and in that time we have seen the death of the old school wholesale/retail model, the rise of super well-funded yet unprofitable “Direct To Consumer”, the rise and subsequent “greenwashing” in sustainable fashion, being told offshoring our factory is a must, to now being seen as smart for avoiding “supply chain” issues… Read more>>

Jillian Corsie | Filmmaker, Editor, and Film Festival Programmer

The driving force behind my journey to where I am today is simply doing what I love. I don’t create films in pursuit of awards or prestige; I do it because of my genuine passion. It all started with my first feature, when I spontaneously interviewed people on the street one afternoon. Completely unintentionally, those interviews lead me to make a feature documentary at the age of 23! Now, 12 years later, “Trichster” continues to stream on Amazon, shedding light on the hair-pulling disorder known as trichotillomania. Read more>>

Falisha Rexford | Female Veteran/Realtor/Real Estate Investor/ mommy and wife!

Everything is based around relationships. Especially in the world that we live in nowadays I think people are craving human connection. Being there for people before business will in turn generate or business… Be people driven, not commission driven. Read more>>

Stephen Hemmert | Co-owner/Winemaker Stephen Hemmert Wines

Aside from making what we believe to be great wine, it’s the personal touch we give not only to our physical Tasting Room location that people love but to our customers! We strive to embrace every person that walks into our Tasting Room with joy and excitement. They could have gone anywhere else but came to us. We have many return customers that we know by name, their kids names etc. It’s like walking into the TV show Cheers! Our staff know our expectations and are in many ways like us, the two owners. Customer centric, very nice and wonderful people. Read more>>

Aili Ice | Owner/Lead Designer

Authenticity is a major factor behind my success and the success of my brand. Staying true to the philosophy which was the basis of starting the business in the first place. Believing in a healthy culture within my business which includes treating my employees with respect and kindness, treating my clients with the same respect I expect from them, believing in the power of the flower and what it brings to people and places energetically, Read more>>

Seth Grady | Music Producer – Audio/Vocal Producer – Artist

The most important factor behind my success/brand success is a combination of consistency, hard work, networking, and collaboration. These four elements have played vital roles in driving achievements and establishing a strong foundation. Consistency has been crucial because it ensures that I consistently deliver high-quality work, maintain a strong work ethic, and stay dedicated to my goals. Read more>>

Grace Ilasco | American Board Certified Haircolorist | Hairstylist | Salon Owner of Color Lounge Inc.

The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand, is keeping to what we do best and not spread ourselves too thin. I realize, I can do it all, but I really can’t do it all alone and with the limited time that I have. I wish I could clone myself x 10. I feel like we’d be a lot farther now, but the key is to keep that steady pace of consistently growing even when there are many days where you feel defeated. Read more>>