Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.
Dr. Shirley Clark
Yet, despite these dark beginnings, as I grew older, there was an inner strength that allowed me not to give up. So, I persevered through a difficult childhood where survival was my primary focus. My educational years seemed bleak—I even flunked my first semester of 12th-grade English, which nearly prevented me from graduating. But despite receiving my diploma, I carried the weight of a secret—I struggled with literacy and could not write a complete sentence. For over 20 years, I kept this hidden. But at 35, determined to overcome my limitations, I entered an English lab to learn what a comma and semicolon were. Read More>>
Dr. Tangela Stoot
So, as of last year I have been in the best place of my life mentally. I lost something’s along the way, I was betrayed and lied on by people, but God was right there. I wrote and published my first book Rejected by Man but, Accepted by God this year, I received my honorary doctorate in divinity this year and received many awards. I am also the pastor of The Healing Place International and a business owner of a nonprofit, Healing Empowerment Center and Global Healing Development Center, LLC. I am here today because of God. Read More>>
Aleisha Gravit
After playing for a few months, I wanted more, so I decided to pursue teaching and went through the Oh My Mahjong teacher program and here we are! Mahjong is a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China and has spread throughout the world since the early 20th century. In addition to it being a very strategic and beautiful game, there have been numerous neurological studies that show that playing Mahjong for 12 weeks can improve the executive functions in those with mild cognitive impairment. It is also a strong fundraising outlet that is associated with the Alzheimer’s Association. I call it the brain game. Read More>>
Paloma Orozco
My journey has been anything but easy, filled with invaluable learning experiences for which I’m incredibly grateful. After completing my trainings, landing a nurse injector position didn’t happen right away. It took six months before I secured my first job in the field. During that time, I had two jobs and worked in the ICU while trying to build clientele. Juggling motherhood and trying to find a balance in the midst of it all was quite the challenge and required me to prioritize and master time management. Though it wasn’t easy, that period gave me the knowledge, resilience, and experience I needed to eventually open my own medical spa practice. Read More>>
Kellie Maynard
We are a comprehensive housing program that supports individuals in realizing dignity and gaining independence. Our purpose is to alleviate homelessness and create more resilient people and communities. The goals we pursue are increased self-sufficiency, greater economic mobility, and improved personal, mental, and financial health for low-income households. Read More>>
Joseph Troskie
I started as designing only, but quickly grew and moved into the GC/Builder role. I then formed a design/build company in 2013 and would go on to design and build new homes for clients and investors. Covid hit and we faced many challenges on the construction side, and I made the decision to focus only on design. We now work alongside builders and contractors and clients to design their projects, and I love it! I’m grateful for the decade of experience I had working as a builder, but I thrive in the designer role much more. Read More>>
Dallas Cotillion Club
For nearly a century, we’ve been a go-to for young women wanting to learn social skills, build friendships, and have fun while giving back. Our annual events, especially our gala, are more than just parties—they’re celebrations that support important causes, such as that of our beneficiary Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support. Read More>>
Amanda Garrison
Since a young age I was always a bit extra, i’ve always loved nice things ( I get it from both my parents ). I also loved youtube, my sisters and I have always wanted to be in the social media world but of course the fear of failure really hinders your motivation. But after years of my friends telling me I should make content, how fun or aesthetic my life looks I finally started. That’s how we have “softlifewitha” now. Read More>>
Adriana Villegas
This is how our origin story started. I gathered a whole bunch of recipes, started testing them and finally created the perfect crust. Hint’s our name, CRUSTY Bites. A fruit tart was actually one of the first pastries I learned to make and since then has been one of my best sellers. Read More>>
Madeline Zeringue
Nothing worth doing is smooth. You’ve got to have a few bruised knees to make it worth climbing the tree. If it was easy everyone would do it! I sometimes put these phrases on repeat in my head when things are not easy. I’m typically an optimist, but even optimists need mantras to keep them on track when things are not going as planned. One of my challenges in the last two years was whether to double down on my own consultancy business or to be a W2 employee. I chose the latter because I love to build things and do big things and we’ve done that at Merit TV. Read More>>
Kensee Auld
As both grew, it led me to a full time career as a western fashion influencer and a western wear designer. From thrifting, to sewing my own clothes, to now manufacturing, Western Gringa LLC has become a leader in young western fashion as well as an icon in the western influencer industry. Find me at major rodeos all over the United States as well as my designs inside your favorite western wear stores! Read More>>
Elaine Stoltz
After a fulfilling career as a computer programmer and raising my children as a stay-at-home mother, I found myself at a crossroads during my midlife. With a background in education (BS in Mathematics), I was unsure of my next step, but I knew I needed to find a new passion. Seeking clarity, I turned to the Johnson O’Connor Research Foundation to explore my natural aptitudes. That test changed everything. It revealed that I possessed exceptional strengths in visual acuity, three-dimensional perception, design, memory of design, and color discrimination—skills I hadn’t fully recognized in myself. Read More>>
Nour Felo
After graduation, I explored many different careers, but nothing seemed to ignite my passion. Then, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was laid off from my job. It was a turning point for me. I decided to take a break and go on vacation, and while I was away, I got my own brows, eyes, and lips done. I immediately fell in love with the convenience of permanent makeup. It looked so natural and saved so much time in the mornings—I could just wake up, feel put together, and leave the house without spending hours in front of the mirror. Read More>>
Alexander Sagcal
When I first started in medical sales, people told me I’d only succeed in certain areas. But in my first company, I earned a spot in the President’s Club for top sales, and I went on to earn similar accolades at my next two companies. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to regularly evaluate my progress and plan for what’s ahead. In the automotive world, I’ve been fortunate to keep strong relationships, and I’m grateful to now serve the automotive needs of people I’ve gotten to know well. Read More>>
Bobby Cox
The more I kept shooting, the better I became, and the more I fell in love with capturing and creating lasting art. Eventually our brand name evolved into our motto “No Lackin Lifestyle” which in short means give everything you have in all you do. Even though I first picked up a camera in 2017, it wasn’t until I graduated college in December of 2022 when I had the time and opportunity to really focus on the art. Over the years I have evolved from just shooting football games, to shooting all different types of sports, weddings, graduations, brand content, events, and pretty much any thing else I am needed for. Read More>>
Leonard “Chapo” Okereke Jr.
Now a go-to destination for trendsetters and fashion enthusiasts, Chop Shop Boutique continues to break boundaries, offering an eclectic mix of sneakers, streetwear, and exclusive pieces that speak to the heart of urban culture. Chapo’s journey is one of innovation, creativity, and relentless ambition, positioning Chop Shop Boutique as a brand that is not just local, but global in its appeal. Read More>>
Keisha Howell
As I mentioned it has been a strug-gle! lol The biggest struggle is finding balance between being a wife and mom as well as grow a brand. For instance, we know to grow on most platforms consistency is the key and sometimes (a lot of times) that can be a struggle on its on. Doing hair and trying to film, then edit and upload, just an example, can be time consuming but it gets done. If I had to add time management then let’s add time management because some days go smooth and others not so much. The days just fly on by lol Read More>>
Rebecca Padron
I’m passionate about capturing moments that tell a story. As a photographer, I specialize in portraits, senior/graduation, family and lifestyle photography, and focusing on candid shots that highlight the genuine emotions and connections between loved ones. I’m known for making people feel comfortable in front of the camera, allowing their true selves to shine through. Read More>>
Mariah Harris
Confidence truly is key when it comes to selling yourself. People are more than willing to invest when you see him like you know what you’re talking about! So Always walk it like you talk it. Another issue that I face that maybe some other Nail Tech can attest to would probably be sketchy clients, Bosses that steal your money, And people who genuinely don’t have your best interest at heart. It’s important to remain true to your self in your craft because while the money may seem great, you should value peace even greater. . Read More>>
Gregory Pounds
During my time at the institute, I decided to focus on creating a unique cheesecake experience. I have always loved the texture and sweetness of cheesecake, and I wanted to create something that would change the way cheesecake lovers experience this dessert. After 10 months of experimentation and hard work, I developed a high-quality, luxurious cheesecake ice cream that does not contain milk. Read More>>
