Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below – many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.
Bonnie Perry M.S., CCC-SLP, CMT®
As a child, I believed there was something different about me—something I couldn’t fix and didn’t fully understand. I walked around with my mouth open and didn’t know why it felt so hard to close. I’d resort to smiling all of the time instead, because it was so challenging to close my mouth. Teachers would always comment that I was the happiest student they had. Read more>>
Donette Morris
In the first 90 minutes after waking, I prioritize nervous system regulation and gentle detoxification. I start by waking and immediately listening to my body, using the bathroom, then tongue scraping to support oral and digestive health. I oil my skin as a way to nourish the barrier, stimulate lymphatic flow and prioritize self-care before my day asks anything of me. Read more>>
Michelle Nguyen
The fear of rejection held me back the most in life. I used to take things very personally and a rejection hit me to my core and would stop me from ever pursuing. It would even lead to self sabotage if I ever dare to pursue. I remember applying for a competitive university and ‘missed’ the deadline. Read more>>
Deondriea Csntrice
For a long time, my deepest wounds didn’t look like wounds at all. They looked like achievement. I learned early that being capable, composed, and accommodating kept me safe. I learned how to perform excellence, swallow discomfort, and turn pressure into productivity. Read more>>
Cetonya Martin
The defining wounds of my life came during one of the darkest and most unexpected seasons I’ve ever faced. Losing my mother and my older sister just six months apart shook the very foundation of who I was. They weren’t just family—they were my anchors, my encouragers, and the women who helped shape every part of my identity. Read more>>
Bridgette Horak
The thing that’s been bringing me the most joy is spending time with my almost-two-year-old daughter. Watching her discover the world has been such a beautiful reminder to slow down and appreciate small moments — which actually connects deeply to my work as a massage therapist. She’s playful, curious, and fully present in whatever she’s doing, and I find that energy inspiring. Read more>>
Mr Goodman
If it’s one thing I can say brings me true joy. It’s my Daughter Everyday!!! She is my joy my light my everything. Read more>>
Mesha Holland
The moment that I would say shaped how I see the world is the first day I started working in social services working with the homeless community. I’ve seen young and old alike, go through one of the toughest times in their lives. It humbles you like nothing else can. Read more>>
Katye Wasson
Integrity, without a doubt. Whether I’m in the classroom, behind the camera, or running my business, integrity guides everything I do. In teaching, it means showing up consistently for my students and being someone they can trust. In photography and videography, it means delivering on promises, treating each client with respect, and creating an experience that reflects honesty and care. Read more>>
Francisca Harrison
I feel the most peace when music, nature, and creativity are all moving through me at the same time. Those three things are like the holy trinity of my nervous system—when they’re weaving in and out of each other, that’s my version of heaven. Music has always been my grounding force. I feel it in a very instinctive, soulful way. Read more>>
Morgan Combs
I’ve learned the most about work from other beauty professionals, though not always in the way you might expect. Early in my career, I was surrounded by the mindset that “time is money” and that double booking was the only way to succeed. Over time, I realized that this approach didn’t align with my values. Read more>>
Sarah Amrou
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a loud, curious, creative girl who felt everything deeply and dreamed without limits. I built worlds in my mind, made art out of scraps, questioned rules that didn’t make sense, and trusted my intuition over what anyone expected of me. I didn’t see boundaries. I only saw possibilities. Read more>>
Judy Nitzinger
Indeed! First of all, your creativity comes from within. If it is praised by others, that is a bonus. Read more>>
Krystal Wagner
If i knew that i only had 10 years left, i would immediately stop doubting myslef. I tend to doubt myself in slight fear which could lead to missed opportunities and business relationships. Read more>>
Austin Roberson
If I laid down my name, my role, and everything I possess, what would remain is my relationship with Christ. I truly came to take my faith seriously during my first year of college. For the first time in my life, I realized I was no longer following Christ simply because I lived under my parents’ roof. Read more>>
Arlena Bessard
Exactly what is essential and drives me, makes me, and gives it all meaning+direction+drive– My identity in Christ. Read more>>
Ashleigh Kelly
I’m chasing the dream of building my clothing brand, Pure Intentions, into something much bigger than myself. My goal is for it to reach people who move with love, authenticity, and resilience—people who give pure intentions even when life hasn’t always given that back to them. Read more>>
DaShawn Harris
Dishonesty and apathy are key components in broken relationships. There are so many experiences which has taught us to be honest and empathetic, but injuries, surgeries, aging, and sports parenting probably has humbled us the most. As fitness professionals, we have had many opportunities to train student-athletes. Read more>>
Csauve
Honestly… I believe energy and intention actually land with people, even if I can’t prove it. Like, I put out a song, vibe with it, and somewhere out there, someone’s probably feeling exactly what I was feeling… or just dancing awkwardly in their kitchen. I can’t measure it, I can’t prove it, but I know it’s happening. Read more>>
Celene Stanley
What’s often misunderstood is that my business is not just creative work or surface-level marketing. At its core, it’s systems, stewardship, and responsibility. Creativity is only the visible layer. Behind it is strategy, financial accountability, relationship management, and a deep commitment to doing things with excellence even when no one sees it. People sometimes assume passion replaces structure. For me, faith demands structure. Read more>>
Duval Hamilton
The biggest misunderstanding is that people focus entirely on the intensity of what we do and miss the humanity of why we do it. It’s true that we teach one of the hardest, strongest forms of martial arts on the planet. We don’t hide that. But people often mistake that toughness for aggression. They think we are just training people to fight. Read more>>
Diane Lee
Most of the time potential clients see my work as priced above the average due to the materials and lavish overall look of the finished product. However, my products’ price point is quite the opposite of what potential buyers might think. Read more>>
Eric Giles
This might be controversial, but I think more people need to be a little delusional—especially about their own goals. Life is tough, and it’s easy to convince yourself that big dreams aren’t realistic. But I’ve seen how one bold decision can completely change the trajectory of life. I refuse to buy into the “system” that tells people to suppress their ambitions. Read more>>
Kathryn Ikle
A normal day in my world is a blend of creativity, service, leadership, and intentional living. I start my mornings slowly — usually with coffee in hand — giving myself space to think through what I want to accomplish that day before the whirlwind begins. From there, my workdays unfold in varied ways. Read more>>
Meredith May
A normal day? Well… I am not sure there is ever a ‘normal’ day. If you call a mountain of balloons, client calls, and last-minute orders ‘normal’ and then add to that the responsibilities of being a mom I think most women could paint a pretty good picture. Read more>>
Akaira Cryer-Simmons
To be clear, weekdays look much different than weekends. Regardless of the day, life is nonstop as a busy wife, mom, and entrepreneur, but let’s highlight the weekday routine. I have two amazing diva daughters, ages 3 and 7. My oldest is in elementary school, and my youngest attends daycare part-time. On most weekdays, my alarm is set between 5:00 and 6:00 a.m. Read more>>
Jade Parks
My relationship with Jesus has and will always be the most important relationship in my life. It’s grown so much over 2025 alone that it’s crazy. I was raised on a pew in the hood, so I’m no stranger to the faith. However, I realized that I knew of Jesus, but I didn’t really know Him. Read more>>
Jerry ‘J-Man’ Joyner
“The relationship that’s shaped how I see myself the most is my relationship with myself over time—earned through the people who challenged me, believed in me, and, in some cases, disappointed me. Early on, mentors and family taught me discipline, work ethic, and accountability. Later in life, business partnerships and creative collaborations taught me something just as important: discernment. Read more>>
D’Aunte Hugie
The relationship I’m currently in now has helped me to shape and see myself , My girlfriend Sydney is is very inspiring, smart , amazing , truly gifted in her personality and love for me. Read more>>
Rebekka Ling
Definitely my relationship with God. I think that’s the most important one to have and after that, the one with with yourself and others. At least for me, it’s where everything else flows from. I’ve spend a long time ignoring God’s voice -a deep inner knowing and spirit within us- and that has lead me to some complex situations. Read more>>
David DeGrand
With the rise and current popularity of AI generated art, I feel it is so important these days for any artist that values true human expression to not be deterred from creating the art that they want to and that lets the world know what they have to say. Read more>>
Ana Ambriz
I come from a Hispanic background and have deep rooted values. Family time is very important to me, and I try to teach my family that we need to stay strong and grounded to who we are. No matter how busy my calendar is, I make time for family gatherings and weekly family dinners. We are competitive and very often play strategic games. Read more>>
XinYi Xan
At the end of 2023, I felt inspired to pursue and host a type of event I would have never dared to try in the past — a retreat. I wanted to try to merge two of my passions in life, travel and community building. Read more>>
Dani Amassa-Gana
I receive a lot of love from my neighbors outside. Even when I need to take a step back and haven’t seen them in a while, someone always remembers me and the effect I had on them. I remember the effect they had on me. Many of the times I feel most loved are outside with the people. Read more>>
Kelcee Skoug
Smart people are a treasure, but to be the smartest in the room isn’t where it’s at. Be curious & keep it simple. Read more>>
Raymesha Thompson
Currently I’m literally learning from everyone around me; that includes family, friends, strangers, customers even children are great teachers. There’s always people multiple perspectives going through situations dealing with everyday life. I don’t ever judge a book by its cover. I’m a very open minded person. Read more>>
Mary Bennett
When I think about someone I admire for their character—not their position or power—it’s my boss (owner of Luxx therapy), Kaylee. What moves me about her is that everything she does comes from a place of genuine care. She doesn’t just talk about empathy and connection; she lives it. Read more>>
