The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.
Dominique Sneed
I grew up acting, and that went into theater and background work. In college after constantly hearing about my vocal quality, I started voice acting. After years of minor work, becoming a mom, marrying, and getting my degree, I decided to start applying for small roles again. I was “discovered” by an ANTM alum and walked her runway for LA Fashion Week. Now, here I am, still working still applying still doing whatever is available acting-wise in Dallas! Read More>>
Coey Jaylene
Life on the move isn’t always glamorous. Changing jobs and traveling for work meant I was constantly juggling priorities. One day I’d be meal-prepping at home, determined to stick to healthy habits, and the next, I’m scanning restaurant menus. In between, there are flight delays, last-minute meetings, and the endless search for balance. But through it all, I’ve learned to adapt—finding joy in new flavors, squeezing in quick workouts, and proving that even the busiest schedules can still make room for growth and adventure. Read More>>
Eric Birdine
Eric Birdine is a gifted and talented artist recognized for his creativity, energy and vibrancy in songwriting, ministering in song and directing choirs. Anointed by God, he has become a sought after “Gospel Professional”. His musical journey has taken him across the country to share Christ through the ministry of song. Eric’s experience includes sharing the stage with and singing background vocals for some of gospels greats such as Kirk Franklin, Myron Butler, Jonathan Nelson, Lyle Lovett, For King and Country, Karen Clark-Sheard, Sherri Jones-Moffett, Kim Burrell, Chrystal Rucker, Kelontae Gavin, Michael Lampkin, Trace Atkins, Beverly Crawford, Vincent Bohanan, Prophet Gary Sprewell, Tamela Mann, Myron Williams; just to name a few. Read More>>
Eric Crutchfield
Eric’s determination paid off as he became a prominent developer, creating stunning multi-million-dollar homes and shaping entire communities. Today, he shares his story and expertise as a teacher, coach, and mentor, inspiring others to overcome their challenges and achieve success in real estate and personal growth. Read More>>
Hillaree Barham
Being a Dental Assistant was not necessarily my childhood “dream”. I knew I wanted to be a part of something where I could help people and walk with them on their journies but I knew the hospital setting was not for me. Initially, I landed on becoming a Dental Hygienist. I went to multiple offices right out of college in hopes of observing the hygienist to see if it was a good fit for me. I landed at an office to observe and on my very first day the current RDA at that office quit and they were left with no one but me. Read More>>
Harvey Garza
While I don’t live in the dfw area, I am in there area very very often. I started out as a drummer at 6yrs old and picking up other instruments along the way. Being an bands led me to start wanting to lear audio engineering. I did go to college for commercial music but had one of my best friends show me the world of audio engineering and recording. I then going another band years later ‘Indego’. We recored our first album and our second album in my home studio. Read More>>
Ro’bee Stallings
As a hip hop artist, I’ve had the opportunity to release a few songs that are available on streaming platforms, and it’s been incredible to see my music connect with listeners. I specialize in creating authentic, relatable tracks that speak to the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, drawing from my own experiences and influences within the genre. What sets me apart is my ability to blend storytelling with raw emotion, which I think resonates with people who appreciate the deeper side of hip hop. Read More>>
Rae Dove
My story begins in the beautiful Caribbean twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago, then over to the “BIG APPLE” New York City which then lead to my next big chapter was to Dallas TX back in 2013, due to a promotional position that moved me from JFK International Airport with American Airlines to their headquarters in Fort Worth TX, where I then departed the company in 2023 after 15ys of glorious service. Read More>>
Felicity Merkel
My journey really began in 2020. That year after having my second child, I hit a turning point. I found myself stuck, unhappy, and disconnected -not just from the world, but from myself. I knew I couldn’t keep living that way and realized it was time for a a change. I was 40 then, and what I now recognize as the beginning of my spiritual awakening might have seemed to others like a midlife crisis. But for me, it was so much more than that. It wasn’t a crisis; it was the start of a profound transformation-a journey of self-discovery and reconnection with my true purpose. Read More>>
Jenna Beatty
About a month later, my father found us a new home. Although we didn’t have much, we were lucky to have each other. By August, we had a few more things in the house, and I started using music as an escape from our reality. Every morning, while getting ready for school, I’d tune into the MTV music channel on TV. Music had always been special to me, so when I got home from school, I’d immediately grab my mom’s laptop and watch music videos on YouTube. If my siblings were using it, I’d switch to On Demand and watch Music Choice videos, pretending I was the one in the video, doing the choreography and singing along. Read More>>
Derrick Harris
Over the past seven years, Smokey D’z has grown significantly. Initially, a grab-and-go establishment, Smokey D’z has also become mobile with its food truck and is sought highly after to cater to many local businesses and family gatherings. Today, my focus is on creating exceptional food and providing great service! Read More>>
Anthony Shannell Jr
Now, as I continue to grow, I’m focused on becoming a world-renowned entertainer and business owner. I want to build something lasting, not just for myself, but to create opportunities for others in the industry as well. Since moving to Texas, I’ve been incredibly supported, and the opportunities here have been essential to my growth in both acting and modeling. I’m grateful for everything I’ve learned so far, and I’m excited for what’s to come. The journey is just beginning, and I’m committed to making the most of every moment. Read More>>
Eskender “alex” Mogus
That’s where Amazing Awaze comes into play. You see, Ethiopian food has a lot of grilled and sauteed meat dishes that are rich in smoke flavor and contain some flavor profiles that, while unique, would not be that unfamiliar to Texas barbecue enthusiasts. Awaze (pronounced ah-wah-zey) is a dipping sauce that’s whipped together using berbere (pronounced burr-buh-rey), a complex spice made up of chiles, cardamom, coriander and nutmeg to name a few. It’s kind of the Ethiopian version of (spicy) barbecue sauce I guess! Read More>>
Adrian Peace
If the road was smooth I don’t think I’d even trust that road. I’ve grown accustomed to having struggle present in everything, but I believe overcoming adversity is the only way to create excellence and resilience and build faith. I come from a place where it’s not common to see examples of someone being a successful entrepreneur legally, and it’s not common knowledge that there are so many different ways to achieve financial freedom or make a dream come true. I quickly decided school wasn’t really for me, so if not for my parents both being entrepreneurs and creatives I don’t know where I’d be today. I saw many peers and relatives incarcerated, fall victim to drug addiction or alcoholism, or just remain stuck in other non-progressive cycles, but I’ve always felt God had other plans for me. Read More>>
Seany Webster
Smooth. Absolutely not! lol lol lol. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. It has been the opposite of smooth and I welcomed it. I liken myself to the structure I described. But, there was a part of me that’s bigger than the structure and I had to allow this person to exist and breathe in ways I have not. She has to not only live but thrive outside of the norm. Read More>>
Jason Gibson
Since it’s inception in November of 2011, Jay-Renee Photography has serviced clients for Commercial Property, Event, Wedding, Portrait, Lifestyle, and Sports Photography. Throughout his professional photography career, Jay-Renee’s fascination of lines and patterns in nature and architecture, has created an undying love and passion for the genre of Street Photography Read More>>
Raenesha Williams
As my love for pole dancing and mental health increases I decided to open up a pole dance studio called House Of Embodiment so that other women can have a safe space to explore and experience the same transformation in pole dance and that I did! My mission is to teach and show women how to not only love the body that God gave them, but to explore and be confident in their femininity, and taking care of their mental health! Read More>>
Get Jrkd
Alot of taste testing along the way eating some really bad jerky to lock in on finding the perfect flavors. Making sure the food as well as the packaging passes the USDA guidelines. Read More>>
Phil Stumbo
I started out flying a drone for fun at my friends baseball games. After months i wanted to take it professionally Read More>>
Jordan Haley-lightfoot
In The year of 2022 I started Dynamic Elite Dance Team which I must say went through trial and error because I didn’t know much about running a dance company but here with are in 2024 and I am the proud director of Dynamic Elite Dance & Cheer company which provides a sisterhood and mentorship through dance targeting girls ages 3 – 17 years old and we do also compete in community events and competitions. I also am the CEO of Boujiee Hustle which is an online e-commerce store that sells women accessories Read More>>
Daphne Volle
Violinist Daphné Volle joined the DSO in 1996. Previously she was a member of the Fort-Worth Symphony. Since the age of 17, Volle has played professionally with such orchestras as the Lyon Symphony, Orchestre of Saône et Loire, the French Camerata and the National Orchestra of France. In 1993, she was chosen as the Concertmaster of the European Philharmonic Orchestra and toured in Europe and the United States. She has played as a soloist and chamber musician in many festivals in Europe, Canada and the United States. Read More>>
Ethan Clark
I began college like many, having no idea what I wanted to study which led me to choose a degree in business. While I appreciated learning about the ins and outs of management, I noticed a nagging lack of fulfillment that was difficult to ignore. I knew from looking back on impactful experiences that I felt most fulfilled when I was with people talking about and engaging in their story. After graduating from Texas A&M University, I pursued opportunities to work in ministry which led me to work at a church in Austin, Texas and move to Athens, Greece to work with refugees in the area. These fulfilling experiences pushed me to consider a career in counseling, and I moved to Dallas in 2015 to begin the counseling program at Dallas Theological Seminary. Read More>>
Solo J
I was born in Miami Florida I started this music journey and it’s been taking off here in Dallas when moved here.i dropped my first song early this year and I just been foot on the gas since then. Read More>>
Nantawan Dompraphagorn
In 2020, after facing the challenges of divorce, Nantawan embraced her new role as a single mother with courage. She channeled her energy into exploring entrepreneurial opportunities that would allow her to support her family while still being present in their lives. Her first venture was a restaurant she owned and operated in Louisiana, where she not only managed the business but also worked as a chef. Despite her passion for cooking, the overwhelming demands of running the restaurant prompted her to sell it in 2023, leading her to seek new opportunities. Read More>>
Brandon Callies
Our growth has been very organic. Our goal is not to be famous. Our goal is to spread the word about the artists that we believe in. There are folks out there that should be heard, and we hope that through whatever clout that we have, we can turn people on to new artists. Read More>>
Nailah Jappah
The need to be perfect or live up to the standards around me are some pretty hard struggles. Imposter syndrome is a big part of my life, as well as anxiety, so it’s hard to put that out of my mind when performing or auditioning for something. I also have been in departments and productions where favoritism and nepotism were prominent, so I never really knew how important my talents were or if I was good enough. Read More>>
Kayla Keck
I’m a St. Louis native turned Texan and a dedicated sports chiropractor with a journey deeply rooted in my passion for athletics. Growing up as a competitive gymnast and later becoming a cheerleader at the University of Missouri, sports have always been at the heart of my life. After earning my Doctorate in Chiropractic and a Master’s in Sports Science and Rehabilitation at Logan University, I knew I wanted to turn my passion for athletics into my profession. My mission is simple: to keep athletes healthy and performing at their best. Read More>>
Haley Hoover
This creative urge led me to reflect on my experiences as a former nanny and a new mom. I kept coming back to one particular frustration: the bottle drying rack. It was this seemingly simple item that sparked an idea that would change the course of my professional life. Drawing from my own needs and those of other parents, I developed the Airess Drying Rack. This innovative product is designed to hold a full day’s worth of bottles and pump parts, then effortlessly evolve to support toddler sippycups, lunchboxes, and even wine glasses as your family grows. Read More>>
Courtney Elayna
Sometimes I feel it giving up and just focusing on being a mother and a wife, but then when I have a Friday night and a Saturday night booked and I meet those people that are so kind to me either by sharing with me their stories or tipping me generously shows me that I have no option but to keep fighting to get my music out in the world. So for this year, I plan on booking any day of the week I can get, recording my music with people that are willing to help me along and see my vision. I’ve cleaned houses, sat behind a 9-5 desk in stiff office chairs, but to stand on my feet singing until my voice is dry and playing until my fingers go numb is one of my true desires in life. Read More>>
Lacy Dickey
From an early age, I started using my moms first series digital canon camera. I would sneak away and take photos of our animals, plants and eventually started making my sisters model for me ( I always thank them for their sacrifice and willingness to participate haha …it was rough in the beginning). By the age of 12 I knew how to work a camera well enough to start taking photos at our own family gatherings and etc. Fast forward , my parents always knew my interest in photography was there. Read More>>
Missy Williams
My first big event was I was ask to do a retirement party for my pastor for 600 people. I was not sure I could handle an event of that nature but I dug in and with help from my family and friends was able to pull it off. After that people from that event started calling me to do other events and it just grew from there. I would decorate the sanctuary, doing Christmas or Easter pageants and multiple shower or weddings. Read More>>
Great Dane
I began with music has an outlet for frustration. Now what was once a hobby is a business! Read More>>
Kleo Hannah
I loved dancing growing up, but it wasn’t until I graduated high school that I got into training dance for real. For two spring seasons, I trained in Brownies (later rebranded U.N.I.T.Y) under Jessie Brown. I learned hip hop foundations and history, and I was introduced to the freestyle scene as well. I loved how connected it made feel to like-minded individuals. To this day, performing and getting to connect with others are still my 2 favorite parts of it all. Read More>>
Corey Devon
I have been singing since the age of 3. I was born into a musical family who loves God. My mom and her siblings traveled/toured all over Texas, Oklahoma and parts of New Mexico singing. I have many cousins who play an instrument and or sings. For many years I lead worship and directed the church choir at my Uncle’s Church – Praise Center Ministries in Lubbock, TX. I have my bachelor’s degree in Music Education and taught in the public school system for nearly three years. I currently live in Minneapolis, MN where I lead worship at Miracle City Church. Last year I released my first single as an independent Gospel Artist. In July I did a live recording and will release my new single in December. Read More>>
Kimberly Lummus Crabtree
I grew up in a small Texas town and fell in love with basketball at an early age, won a state championship my senior year of high school and played college ball at The University of Texas in Austin. I coached five seasons at UC Irvine in California, but Texas is home, so as our family grew, my husband and I relocated back to Texas. When our first of four daughters, Ashlin, was in kindergarten, I began coaching her sports teams and our basketball program organically grew over the years, which led to the formation of our organization, True Texas Hoops. Read More>>
Albooby
The turning point in my journey came when I met Bella. I was a guest on her podcast called *Bella DuPlexis Coming Right at You.* From the moment we met, I was smitten—not just by her beauty but by her drive, ambition, and how she carried herself. What started as an interview quickly became a connection rooted in our shared passion for the industry and our ability to understand each other’s dreams and goals. Bella wasn’t just someone I admired—she became someone I could build a life and legacy with. Read More>>
Brandon Michael
I began standup about a year and a half ago, I just started going to open mics and really trying to Network and make friends and just really work on developing as a comic. Then I started getting into comedy Roast Battles and now I have a Podcast on Youtube called the AntiShowShow and I’m starting a Roast Battle Show here in the next couple months. Read More>>
Minh Dinh
I am a Live Event Artist and Calligrapher. I specialize in brand activations for luxury fashion houses, as well as, private bookings (private parties, bridal shower, weddings…). I offer a wide array of services including live fashion sketching of guests at events, calligraphy and engravings, paper art, and customization of products in leather, glass, etc. Read More>>
Stephanie Avila
As my confidence and skills grew, I sought opportunities to break into the fashion world. I started by assisting with photoshoots and styling hair and makeup for small fashion shows. Networking with designers, photographers, and models allowed me to immerse myself in the industry and sharpen my ability to create looks that aligned with unique fashion visions. Read More>>
Tonna Steed
My journey began with my passion for caring for families at my childcare, The Children’s House of Fort Worth. Through my daily interactions with parents, I witnessed firsthand the effects that improper postpartum care had on mothers, not just physically but emotionally as well. Over time, I noticed how many mothers were struggling with the challenges of postpartum recovery, often without the proper care or resources they needed. Read More>>
Butch & Ruthie Stivers
Butch’s 28-year tenure as a Global Account Manager for the Trane Company honed his ability to foster client relationships, manage large-scale accounts, and deliver solutions tailored to unique needs. Ruthie’s 35-year career at Bridal Shows Inc. helping to produce over 300 consumer and bridal shows in the Dallas-Fort Worth area has equipped her with a deep understanding of event planning and customer engagement. Together, we’ve owned and operated a celebrated Wedding Cake/Specialty Cake Bakery for over 20 years—a testament to our ability to deliver excellence in customer-centric businesses. Read More>>
Alexis Paskins
One of the things I’m most proud of is my new YouTube channel, Lexisroom where I vlog my journey of navigating life, going through personal changes, and working to better myself. These vlogs focus on strengthening my life and faith in Christ while inspiring my audience to embrace their own growth and authenticity. Read More>>
Zakiyyah Willis
Through my business, I help individuals and businesses create and maintain thriving indoor jungles, offering consulting services tailored to their unique needs. My work has grown to include collaborations with luxury hotels, restaurants, and even partnerships on high-end floral events. Beyond the business side, I’m deeply committed to promoting green living, sustainability, and the joy that plants can bring into our lives. Read More>>
Joshua Wells
Definitely has not been a smooth road. I believe success is 90 percent spiritual. 10 percent work, But I have learned to walk in my own path because whenever you get distracted by other success you’re getting off of your path . One thing I have learned is never look at someone’s story and want their glory because you never know what they have been through. My father passed away all of a sudden in 2022. Business can sometimes be up or down at times , family or friends can get jealous while you’re on your way up etc . So never look at others story . Read More>>
Murad Gastelum
Murad co-founded Cross Border Warriors (CBW) to bridge the gap between local and international artists. With his Juarez roots, he drew on the energy of the border city’s thriving scene to inspire collaboration across regions. CBW started as a collective for hosting events and curating lineups that blended global talents with local DJs. Read More>>
Mario Aragon
Hi my name is Mario Aragon and im 38 years old. I was born in Mexico but was raised in Dallas from the age of 8. I’m married to my high school sweetheart. We have 5 children together, ranging from a newborn to 20 years old. My son Damian is the oldest. He has been my right hand man ever since he was born, and then we have four beautiful daughters. I dropped out of school my senior year to work and be a father. I’ve worked many different trades along the way and learned many different things. Read More>>
Darlesha Goggans
She has also worked with brands such as red bull as a judge and dancer as well as Bacardi as the official dancer. She is a staple in the Dallas dance community and other cities teaching classes giving knowledge about this artistic movement as well as choreographing and coaching. As well as photographer which has now evolved to creative directing videos and event coordinating .I strive to build community that when everyone comes to Dallas they know who we are. Now with the help my my manager Willie Johnson of J3 productions I strive to keep building my career as an actor, dancer, creative. Read More>>
Beyond Destiny
They are ISSA Nominees for Entertainer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year (Nikki Heath), Band Single of the Year, Emerging Artists, Rising Star and are a Josie Music Award Nominee for Group of the Year. Beyond Destiny plays originals and covers. Their dynamic live shows have taken them across the United States. and New Mexico, earning them recognition from industry professionals and fans alike. Their current single is Time And Again, released on April 29, 2024. They are currently working on their new Album, to be released in the Spring of 2025 Read More>>
Chelsea Gonzalez
I am a wife and mom of 2 kiddos, 10 and 8. I currently volunteer as much as I can for the PTA at my kids school, and I run my own little crafting shop. I mostly make laser cut/engraved items but I also dabble in all kinds of other crafting types such as vinyl work, glass etching, and sublimation. I have ADHD so I tend to hobby hop until I find something that can keep my interest for a while. I will most likely be a hobby hopper for the rest of my life, which is why my husband gave up and let me take over the garage as part of my workspace. Read More>>
Halston Gaines
The journey into video production has been far from easy. Initially, I got into it for the money, mainly because I already had the equipment. But when the money didn’t come in as expected, I found myself discouraged and on the verge of giving up. My lack of consistency didn’t help either, and it was a real struggle to keep going. Another major challenge was understanding my value. Knowing what I was worth but never truly receiving it made the process even harder. It was tough to stay motivated when the effort I put in didn’t always align with the recognition or rewards I deserved. Read More>>
Kelsey Karper
When we founded Factory Obscura in 2017, it came as a result of a conversation among a group of friends. This conversation (hypothetical at the time) was first about imagining what it would look like to build a playground for adults. As the conversation continued, and engaged more people, the idea became more real and got much bigger! Ultimately, a group of five of us came together as founders to build Factory Obscura as a business together. Our goals for the company are many, but they include: building a new economic engine that can evolve how art and artists are valued and sustained; providing a platform for artists to create on a larger, more ambitious scale than is possible on their own; and awakening wonder and joy in our community through meaningful art experiences. Read More>>
Chris Manning
I’m a Dallas-based guitarist, songwriter, and session player who has a lifelong passion for music, all things guitar, recording, mixing, studio work, and live performance. I have been featured in Guitar Player magazine (Dec 2008), and shared stages with Drowning Pool, George Lynch/Lynch Mob, Michael Schenker, Dokken, Stephen Pearcy (Ratt), and Dangerous Toys. I am also a founding member of The Zeppelin Project, one of the top Led Zeppelin tributes in the southwest and in addition to Texas we have played in Oklahoma, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas performing at clubs, theaters, as well as festivals with crowds in the thousands. Read more>>
