We love asking the folks that inspire and excite us about what inspires and excites them. Check out their responses below.

Dominique Thomas

I am inspired and fueled by the memory of my mother. A powerful, resilient Black woman who never let circumstances define her. She woke up early, stayed up late, and pushed through pain, exhaustion, and sacrifice without ever complaining. She was the definition of strength, the embodiment of hustle, and the heart of our home. She taught me that grinding isn’t just about surviving, it’s about creating a better future, even when the odds are stacked against you. Her work ethic, her courage, and her unconditional love still guide me today. Read More>> 

Gregory Blair

At the risk of sounding glib, I can get inspiration anywhere, from anything. Not that I do on any consistent basis, mind you. But I think the world is a bounty of ideas and inspirations: people around you or in the news doing or saying something; a performance; something in nature catching your eye; it could be anything. All you have to do is be present and pay attention; a moment will occur and something about it will strike you and linger and–if you go with it–inspire you toward something creative. So be mindful of and open to those moments and inspiration will come. Read More>>

Mona Mengnan Chu

I’m inspired by the intersections between everyday life and larger cultural or social currents. For me, inspiration often comes from observing the small details of how people live, moments of intimacy, conflict, or resilience that reveal something universal. I’m also deeply moved by stories of women and underrepresented voices navigating systems of power, because they carry both fragility and incredible strength. Read More>>