We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

SéJ

I am almost always willing to take a risk. I do tend to think things over, but sometimes you have to just go for it. Risk-taking is what takes you to the next level. No one ever got anywhere by staying in their comfort zone.

A huge risk I took myself was moving here to the US from the islands to pursue music. I spent my childhood living between Trinidad, Dominica and Barbados so coming to the States I didn’t really know anybody. I had to leave many of my friends and family behind. I came here as an international student, so I was juggling classes, studying and music. I went to school every day and then stayed up late writing music which I always knew was a risk that would pay off. Read More>>

Jess Rose McDowell

Risk Taking: how do I think about risk?

I will endorse all levels of risk taking! It’s the ultimate form of getting out of your comfort zone, pushing boundaries, & honestly – one of the biggest expressions of confidence. Before I started writing, I researched different ways to describe “risk-taking”, one answer in particular stood out to me & that was – “willingness to engage in behaviors or actions that involve uncertainty, potential loss, or danger – in pursuit of reward or gain.” Though I personally don’t condone putting yourself in danger – I resonated with the rest of the words because it takes a strong, capable, healthy, & worthy person to willingly give their physical, financial, social, emotional, & intellectual being into chasing after their purpose or goals. Read More>>

Audrey Amadeo

I’m deeply inspired by the resilience, creativity, and joy of individuals on the autism spectrum. Every event, every interaction reminds me how powerful the arts can be in building connections, fostering expression, and celebrating uniqueness. I’m also inspired by the families, caregivers, and educators who show up every day with love, patience, and determination—they motivate me to keep growing our foundation and finding new ways to support this incredible community. Read More>>

Hotspot

By doing the same thing in my formula, I take my time with each and every song like it’s my baby. Then promote like crazy Read More>>

Gabi Sklar

I pour so much of myself into my art, not only because I hold every lyric close to my heart, but because the experience of making each song is incredibly fulfilling. I write all my music with a team of Swedes– Anton, Isabella and Lara– that have become close friends of mine. Every time I walk into the studio, I know I’m going to laugh, cry (half of the time from laughter), eat way too many Napoletano wood-fired pizzas under the stars and string lights in the beautifully quant landscape of Tarzana and eventually, drive home with the windows down listening to a demo or two for the first time on maxed-out volume. To say the least, I leave every session feeling blessed and very… “full”. Read More>>

Semajh

I was Born in Carrollton Tx, but Mother from Cali Colombia and a Father from Detroit Michigan. Grew up in a Colombian Household speaking English with my Dad and Spanish with my mother . It brought me to grow up with different cultures of music and gave me the sound I have today Read More>>

Ocean Willow

I was originally born in Queens, NY; more specifically, Flushing. Although I was born in NYC, I grew up in Marlboro, New Jersey, a more rural suburb in the “nonexistent” central part of New Jersey. My background and upbringing really impacts who I am today because of not only the atmosphere of New Jersey but, more importantly, my biological parents. Both my mother and father are South Korean immigrants who came to America; like any immigrant, for a better life for themselves and opportunity to fulfill the so called “American Dream.” Read More>>

Alp Akmaz

I chose to pursue an artistic and creative career because music and art have always been my heart and soul. From a young age, I was captivated by how music could transcend words and bring emotions to life in ways nothing else could. It became clear to me that my purpose in this world was tied to that feeling—the connection to something bigger, something universal. Music is not just a passion; it’s a calling. It’s my way of communicating with the world, of expressing the inexpressible.  Read More>>

Malury Imbernon

My journey into the arts, particularly the music industry, has always been guided by genuine passion. Despite growing up in a family deeply rooted in the medical field—my father being a successful healthcare entrepreneur—I found myself naturally gravitating toward creative expression. Music and arts resonated with my soul in ways that medicine never could. Even from a young age, I deliberately sought out friendships with fellow artists outside my academic circle, creating a community where I truly belonged.  Read More>>