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.
Haley Marie
My mom tells this story about when I was in preschool. During recess, while all the normal kids would be playing and running around, I liked to stand at the top of the slide and serenade everyone in this unrestrained, operatic style. I didn’t ever care who watched, but my mom says the teachers would always stand around, happily listening to me. All that to say, my love for music is as old as me. My dad played a significant role my pursuit of music: Read more>>
Ian Griffin
I am an old soldier that grew up in Pittsburg, Texas. I served 31 years in the army and returned home to Pittsburg to retire in 2020. After a few years into retirement, I started writing fiction novels. I wrote the Rick & Katja Spy Series and three non-spy books that take place in East Texas. My spy books are set in Kitzingen, Germany, where I was stationed for five years. I am just an old soldier who relishes writing about the complexities of life. Read more>>
Alexa Gandy
I graduated in 2022, and was able to save enough to get a 3 bedroom apartment for my younger sister so she would also have the opportunity to finish high school, after she graduated I decided to move back to Dallas to give myself bigger opportunities to be creative in a city I am familiar with and where my family is. Dallas is my home. I now live here with my Fiance, in Deep Ellum and Work for Urban Outfitters doing Display and Merchandising Read more>>
Aalia Al-barwani
I realized that sustainable change isn’t just about what we eat or how much we exercise—it’s about identity, mindset, and the subconscious patterns driving our behaviors. Through my own personal growth and transformation, I saw how powerful this work could be, and I knew I had to bring it to others. Today, I blend my expertise as a physician with the deep, transformational work of NLP and behavioral coaching. My mission is to help women move beyond the yo-yo dieting cycle, reclaim their health, and step into the most empowered version of themselves. Read more>>
Rich Lox
We do not turn anyone away regardless of their ability to pay. Approximately 25% of our members are on some form of scholarship any given month. This commitment ensures that our boxers have no gap in training even if their finances could become an obstacle. We believe this is what allows our boxers to continuously improve and win titles at the local, state and national level. Without our programs, many of our local youth would not have access to physical fitness options let alone a chance to compete in a US Olympic sport. Read more>>
Shelby Williams
Welcome to a space where stories, insights, and perspectives come together to inspire growth and meaningful conversations. Through What’s Next Conversations, I create a platform for open dialogue—where we explore self-growth, life transitions, and the journeys that shape who we are meant to be. Whether through my podcast or social media agency, my mission is to help individuals and businesses share their voices, build connections, and navigate what’s next with confidence. Let’s start the conversation! Read more>>
David Archibald
I have the honor of serving as the bassist for The First Dallas Band at First Baptist Dallas, where I recently contributed as a writer on their latest EP, For Your Glory. I am devoted to glorifying the Lord by faithfully stewarding the gifts and opportunities He has graciously entrusted to me. Read more>>
Exotic Talk Podcast
The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but it has been incredibly rewarding. As we grew the podcast, we also grew personally, realizing the value and opportunities it could bring. In the beginning, staying consistent, holding ourselves accountable, and maintaining discipline were challenges we had to overcome. Like any venture, we started small, taking baby steps along the way. The Exotic Talk Podcast has truly changed our lives—not only strengthening our friendships but also teaching us valuable lessons. One of the biggest takeaways has been the importance of having uncomfortable yet necessary conversations. What once felt difficult has now become second nature, as we’ve created an open space where these discussions flow naturally. Read more>>
Nikki Angel
I remember a time when I was juggling my 9-to-5, content creation, and building my brand, all while trying to stay consistent in the gym and still have a personal life. One night, after an exhausting day, I had a sponsored post due, but my phone storage was full, my tripod broke, and my WiFi decided to act up—all at once. I sat there, frustrated, questioning if this was even worth it. But instead of quitting, I got resourceful. I cleared space, stacked some books as a makeshift stand, and used my hotspot to upload the content. That moment stuck with me because it reminded me that success isn’t about having everything go smoothly—it’s about making it work, no matter what. Read more>>
Kentrell Spencer
I have been teaching for Dallas Independent School District for 3 years now. I’ve always had a love for houses. I found it to be interesting and admirable on how different homes can be customized and the end result is stunning as ever. So I pushed myself REALLY HARD to study for the Texas/Nationa[ Real Estate exam, and I passed on my very first try. All thanks to the man above! I joined brokerage (Ronark Realty Co.) and now I’m on my journey to success one step at a time. Self discipline and grace are big factors in which help me to move forward and achieve more. I am currently doing dual careers because as much as I love houses, I love educating the youth and being the role model they deserve. Read more>>
Kelley Mccullough
After graduating from Michigan State University, I spent about five years in Cincinnati working in supply chain management and HR. While I enjoyed working with people and appreciated the structure of corporate America, I eventually hit a wall—I no longer felt challenged or fulfilled in my career. That’s when I decided to apply for a master’s program in film and television production, hoping to explore a more creative path. I was thrilled to be accepted, but the financial burden of grad school quickly became a major concern. As much as I loved the idea of pursuing that passion, I wasn’t willing to take on significant debt to do so. Read more>>
Aracely Cuenca
In 2023, I decided to take my passion to the next level and pursue my dream of becoming a professional photographer. Now, a year later, I look back on everything I’ve learned with gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead. I specialize in capturing families, couples, maternity, and more; because to me, every moment is worth preserving. Whether it’s a familiar setting or something entirely new, I’m always up for the challenge. I am also expanding into wedding photography and in just my second year in business, I am proud to have already booked three weddings; an achievement that fuels my passion even more. Read more>>
Poseidon Neptune
Omnithreads is more than clothing—it is my soul woven into fabric. It is my story, my resurrection, my offering to the world. It represents the journey from darkness to light, from limitation to liberation. No longer do I carry the burdens of my past. No more medications, no more afflictions. My body is strong. My mind is clear. My spirit is unshaken. Read more>>
Erin Roy
I began my educational Shibari journey in March of 2020 during quarantine. I was working though some unexpected life changes during this time and I was looking for a new passion that would help me work through some mental difficulties. What I ended up finding was something far more than I expected. Since 2020 I have attended classes and conventions to further my knowledge of Shibari and I have met some incredible people along the way who still inspire me to this day. I have been self tying since 2020, self suspending since early 2021, and I have been a rope bottom since late 2021. Read more>>
Keliko Gonsalves
It is a window tinting business out here in McKinney! I offer automotive, residential and commercial services. I feel what sets me apart from other businesses is my connection I try to build with my customers as well as the quality of work I strive to provide to everyone. I’m most proud of where I started and where um currently at. I’m still starting and still growing as a business and as a person. I want everyone to know I’ll always do what I can to assist everyone as much as possible as well as create a great experience for everyone that I cross paths with! Read more>>
Itohan Omoughie
So I decided to go ahead and learn how to sew and design and I haven’t regretted that decision ever since . As much as am a Fashion designer I were so many hats as an author, a compere and also run an NGO were am able to give back to less privileged women and their kids Read more>>
Dana Stilley
Last year, I obtained my Nutrition Coach Certification to help guide and launched my own FaithFitHome fitness app you can download through Google Play and the App Store-I have a 6 week Beginner Fitness Program that includes meal planning, three workouts/demos weekly, healthy habits incorporated into your day, a community support of like-minded women and so much more. In addition, I will be launching a second 4-workout program, called the FUNctional Fit Formula, which will be released early March. I have only scratched the surface of FaithFitHome and continue to look for ways to bring FAITH to your FITness journey from HOME. Read more>>
Katie Burwell
When Tatum was born we received an at birth diagnosis and we chose to learn everything we could about Down Syndrome this is where the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network came into play. They had online groups for parents who had children diagnosed with down syndrome that could connect and share information, etc. We fundraise for DSDN yearly and they have partnered with Pals Socks as a way to create awareness but also raise funds. They donate $5 for every pair sold back to DSDN. So not only are you rocking your socks, but you are also helping a non-profit organization that is instrumental for parents with children who have Down Syndrome! Read more>>
Nicole Ying
After that, I went to Indiana University Jacobs School of Music for my performer diploma in piano performance, where I discovered my true passion – collaborative piano. I always loved playing with others more than just by myself. For my last year at IU, I officially switched to collaborative piano and earned my performer diploma in that field. From there, I continued to University of North Texas, where I pursued my doctorate in collaborative piano with a related field in music business. I am incredibly proud to say that I have just submitted my dissertation and passed my defense. Read more>>
Shefali Patel
I really wanted to create a tradition of baking cakes for all three of my kids birthdays as a memory for them! After many failed attempts, working on my skills, testing flavors and learning new techniques, Caked by Shef was born in 2022. My passion for baking has given me a creative outlet, and the ability to spread joy by creating the most gorgeous desserts that taste just as amazing as they look! Caked by Shef has been an incredible blessing and a dream come true! In 2023, I was given the opportunity of a lifetime to compete on Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship! Caked by Shef has also been featured locally on CW33, NBC Texas Today and Good Day Fox 4. Creating custom masterpieces brings me absolute joy! Read more>>
Marco Soto
My journey in martial arts started when I was five years old, inspired by my dad, who began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He laid the foundation for me and my brother, and by the time I turned six, we were all training together as a family. We expanded our training to freestyle karate under our instructor, Orlando Waugh, in Arlington, Texas. At eight, I began competing in BJJ and became more consistent in my practice. A year later, my mom joined us. And once they were old enough, my younger brother and sister also joined us. Read more>>
Austyn Ni’cole
I’ve always had a deep love for music, especially instruments. In middle school, I explored a few different ones in band class before settling on woodwinds—those were some of the best years of my life. But when high school came around, I realized that band wasn’t something I wanted to pursue seriously, so I stepped away. Even then, I knew I wasn’t done with music. The closest I got to it during that time? Controlling the aux cord at every chance I got—hahaha! Read more>>
Bertrand Mckinney
I was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. At the age of 13 my parents moved to a small place called Tylertown, Mississippi because the pace was slower than New Orleans. I grew up in a loving household and God was at the center of our family. I also was a big hip hop fan so later in life combining my beliefs with my faith made sense. I’ve been rapping for over 20 years and doing Christian Hip Hop for about 5 years now. Read more>>
Brooke Moss
The owners, Kat and Luis, are amazing and are currently helping the team with marketing and just overall building each other up. It’s very beautiful. I have also took on a role as an Educator at VXO Beauty Academy. Vashtai and Johnny are working as a team to shake up the education in the beauty industry and help fill in the gaps that have been present for some time. Im really excited to be apart of this ground breaking experience and I cannot wait to see where this leads me next. Read more>>
Marina Ortiz
My name is Marina Rey Ortiz, and it is my great pleasure to share my journey with Voyage Dallas. For over 10 years, I have walked the path of entrepreneurship, navigating its challenges and triumphs. Today, I share my story not only to encourage those facing their own struggles but also to inspire future entrepreneurs who dream of building something meaningful. Read more>>
Reid Nitcher
I am a IT professional working in low-code, data management and data visualization. My work from home journey started in 2022 and I casually started picking up things to upgrade technology but quickly found that curating my space and having a comfortable and inviting space made my work more enjoyable so I got super into these items – especially keyboards. Read more>>
Poplock P
I’m A singer/songwriter. I specialize in being the best at performances . That’s what I’m known for. As far top entertainers in the state, I take great pride in that. I’m constantly working on my craft to ensure my performances are the best people have seen. To see me entertain on social media is one thing, build to see my live in concert is an experience of its kind Read more>>
Leila Lynch
It has certainly not been an easy road. I’ve faced many ups and downs, from overbooking myself at times to not having enough clients during other periods. One of the biggest challenges was having to move my makeup studio three times in just two years, which was a huge adjustment. Despite these struggles, I’ve experienced a lot of growing pains that have shaped me and my business. I wouldn’t trade those experiences for the world, though, because I’ve learned so much from each challenge. Through it all, my passion for providing quality services and building excellent customer relationships has only grown stronger. Read more>>
Marisa & Maurio King-goodman & Goodman
I’ve always been passionate about helping people find happiness and fulfillment. It started with my own journey of self-discovery, where I began to realize how much of our happiness comes from intentional habits and mindset shifts. I struggled for years on my own journey and then I spent several years studying personal development, mindfulness, and emotional well-being, all while looking for ways to share what I’d learned with others. That led to the creation of my book, WTF is Happy, and later, my 30-day guide to happiness which will be out May 1st. I wanted to break down the complexities of happiness and show people how they could take small steps every day toward a more fulfilled life. Read more>>
Roza Franco
Escaping a physically abusive marriage, I left everything behind—even living out of my car for a while to stay safe before I could gather the means to leave the city. Starting over in a new city meant leaving behind all my friendships and facing years of self-doubt and loneliness but I refused to let my past define me. I threw myself into self-education, worked tirelessly on my healing through therapy, and rebuilt my life from the ground up. Every challenge became a stepping stone to the person I am today—stronger, wiser, and unbreakable. Read more>>
Jerry Gomez
It was a challenge to find a guitar player that meshed well with our musical taste and our dedication to the project. There were a few candidates but none seem to be the right fit. Luckily, one day Garth received a message on Bandmix, a website used to find local artist. Omar Tageddi (Guitarist) responded to a post Garth had posted many years ago, 2 to 3 bands before Wolvera. We met with Omar and talked about the band and our future for the project over some beers in Deep Ellum. We practiced a few songs together and soon after Omar became the final piece of the puzzle. Read more>>
Sandra Normil
It became clear that this journey was not merely about likes or followers; it was about building a community and offering something genuine to the world. Now, my mission extends beyond content creation; it’s about forging meaningful connections and discovering new ways to engage with my audience. The journey has been unexpected, yet it has been incredibly rewarding to witness my growth and acknowledge the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Read more>>
Tay Harris
I remember wanting my business to be the best. Instead of hiring a web designer, I took it upon myself to research and create my own website. I even found this amazing artist on Instagram who did a portrait of me, which became my banner for a while. It’s cool to see how far things have come, and I can proudly say, “I DID IT first” in Dallas! After launching my website, a local business owner asked me who designed it because they loved it. That’s how I started my second business, “Bougie Branding,” as a web designer. Read more>>
Veronica Wilson
There were moments when I doubted myself, when I felt like I wasn’t good enough or didn’t belong in this industry. But with every client, every brushstroke, and every experience, I got better. After moving to Dallas in 2021, I took the next step and earned my esthetician license to continue growing in my craft. I also joined a couple of bridal hair and makeup teams in DFW, which gave me even more experience working with brides and learning from other artists in the industry. Read more>>
Michael Dais
While trying to Grope with the pain , he decided to use music once again to help him Cope with the tragic loss. His friend told him before his passing away that Drippppp would be the next:” Tre Songs or Jacquees , or Rod Waves . Inspired by his words ,Michael Dais aka (Dripppp ) released the hit song “Grinding All my Life” to. His friends death gave him new motivation to not take life for granted , and to do whatever it is that you were purpose to do in life to the best of your ability. Michael Dais (Dripppp) shen shortly after , released the song called “Lone Live Mike” as a tribute to his friends passing. Read more>>
Sade Lethridge
Right now, I’m on a fitness journey that has transformed not only my body but also my mindset. In 2021, I reached 270 pounds while pregnant with my son—who came out as a strong, 10-pound baby! Staying home with him gave me time to reflect on my health, but it also introduced me to an incredible tribe of moms online. These women have uplifted me, encouraged me, and helped me grow as a wife and mother. Read more>>
Marcus Thomas
Music has always been a huge part of my life. I started small, DJing for friends and local college events—house parties, student gatherings, and eventually clubs. I loved the energy and the way a great set could take a crowd to another level. But after college, I thought it was time to move on from DJing and focus on a different path. Read more>>
Laura Thornton
Back in 2020, when Covid brought a halt to most social activities, I found myself with way too much time on my hands and eventually found solace in baking fun treats for my boyfriend (now my husband). There was one tiny issue- he’s not a sweets guy; while he enjoyed the creativity, the treats were piling up and I surely wasn’t going to eat ALL of them myself. That’s when I got the idea: maybe I could start a small business and sell my cakes and cupcakes! The thought of spreading joy through my creative outlet was exciting. Read more>>
Max Aman
With my Martin fully restored, my passion for music reignited. I became obsessed, practicing 4–6 hours a day. Eventually, I started writing my own songs and posting them on Instagram (@maxamanmusic). One of those songs, Grandson—a tribute to my grandfather, Jack Unruh, an Illustrator’s Hall of Fame inductee—caught the attention of his friend, Johnny Hooper. He reached out and offered to work with me. Read more>>
Alexander Fletcher
I started out as a musician—chasing the dream, playing gigs, and believing that, somehow, I’d be a rock star Playing Bass for my band Darby. For eight years, I gave it everything I had, but reality has a way of stepping in when you least expect it. At 30, I found out I was going to be a father. I had about $60 to my name, a two-door Ford Focus on its last leg, and a rented room in Uptown Dallas. But I was excited as hell. I knew I had to shift gears fast, so I put my head down and got to work, focusing on bar operations. At first, the plan was simple: become a bar manager. That would work… right? Read more>>
Dmytro Khamskyi
Just a few months ago, we took another big step—expanding our business to Dallas, Texas and launching Future Media. Today, we specialize in real estate photography and videography, aerial drone footage, 3D virtual tours, cinematic video tours, and business video production. Our goal is to help realtors and businesses showcase properties and brands in the most compelling way possible. Read more>>
Jonae Metcalfe
My journey into early childhood education wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about building a community. When the first families entrusted their children to her, they weren’t just clients—they became part of the Tribe. I poured everything into creating a space where children felt safe, seen, and valued. Read more>>
Abel Koshy
I started playing drums on Sundays when I was 5 or 6 years old in a small church in Hollywood, Florida. I had a mentor that I looked up who was older than me who was super talented and pretty much anything he did, I wanted to do. So when he played drums, I played drums, when he played keys, I played keys, so on and so forth! Fast forward I ended up playing drums every Sunday while he lead worship at our church. Read more>>
Csauve
But this is chapter for me where I allow my self to wonder and be in awe I just release the expectations of what the outcome is supposed to be and trusting myself enough to respond to the circumstances in front of me but now I step into my faith the faith that God had already given me I allow myself to respond to the inspirations I allow my self to fully feel and fulfill the plans and visions that God has for me and have give. To me that I’ve held back on for my life and simply walk forward by being scared but taking a step in faith Read more>>
Aquancia Jones
I’ve struggled with a lot of things in my life being homeless, mental health issues eating disorders ,not knowing who I am, not having a job, carless but I looked towards God and built a relationship with him and let him guide the way. I have created a lot of things that I still will continue to work on but God willingly this is the one that I am proud of sharing. A digital/ print to create your life the way you want it to be. The brand is PRETTYCRAVESUS but the product is ‘Thebluprint’ Creating you for you. A monthly plan of action to ensure productivity even when there’s problems you have a guide to help you find the solution. Read more>>
Hadley Grace
My song (Wanna Be Mine) is now on all platforms including Apple music, Spotify, Amazon music etc. wanna be mine is also on the radio in the Texas area and in Australia doing well. I just recorded my second song coming out soon with my third song waiting to also be released. I will be heading out and performing on the LOL Podcast live tour starting this spring. I love country music and I’m inspired by Lainey Wilson, Jessie Murph, Megan Maroney. I’m very excited to see what path God has for me. My grandpa Ted (who has passed now) would always help me with singing when I was little, I know he is watching over me smiling from ear to ear and proud of me! Read More>>
Jennifer De La Cruz
The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but one thing that kept me going was having someone who truly believed in me and my vision. This person encouraged me to share my hair treatment oil with the world, seeing the potential before I even fully did. When I launched my first batch, I wasn’t expecting much, but to my surprise, I sold out faster than I imagined. The overwhelming support and demand reassured me that I was on the right path. Now, I launch every three months, continuously improving and growing, knowing that what I’ve created is making a difference. Read More>>
