It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around the Valley.
Ali Valentine
I like to think of myself as a poet and vocalist. While I dabble in a few other instruments, my true strength lies in writing songs and singing. I’m my own toughest critic, but that’s what keeps me sharp. My cultural background, alongside my operatic training, gives my voice a unique quality that I believe sets me apart from others in the same space. My voice is my signature, and I hope one day it’ll stand alongside the greats like Freddie Mercury, Chris Cornell, Don Henley, and Chris Stapleton. Read more>>
Vaia
In search of better prospects, I relocated to Los Angeles, only to discover that many productions had moved to other states. This transition meant starting from scratch—securing my SAG card and establishing a new network of connections in a highly competitive environment. It was a long and challenging process. I continued to train and network and spent a year doing background work before finally landing my SAG card through a National commercial that called for an Olympic-level boxer, which aligned perfectly with my background. Read more>>
Lisa Fox
Moving forward in 2018 I partnered with a gentleman who had lost his wife and he knew my pain to establish a Non Profit Organization to help veterans and their families who were homeless reintegrate back into society so we opened a home and offered resources and services until COVID19 happened. This journey brought so much joy into my life I finally had something that helped me feel productive I was able to give back to someone else who was less fortunate and Angela’s Team Empire aka A.T.E. was one of the best things I could have ever done in my grieving and pain it provided my an opportunity to turn pain into purpose. Read more>>
Victor Greenwood
I was suddenly immersed in the protest scene in Los Angeles, documenting demonstrations across the city almost daily for months. Taking photos in that environment not only pushed me to improve quickly, but also gave my work a sense of purpose. I was capturing history in real time. I was taking hundreds of photos a day and learning constantly on the go. Read more>>
Julia Mya
It all started when I was scouted to model at 4 years old. After a few years of that, my parents decided to put me in ballet and gymnastics until I was 14 instead. I was scouted to model again at 14 and decided to pursue a modeling career. I was sent to model in New York, Paris, and Seoul, Korea. I continued to model and balance high school, I graduated in 2020 and moved to Beverly Hills at 18. Then, I was signed to Aston Models. In 2024 I received a random dm on Instagram to go on a Reality TV show I was hesitant because it was for Farmer Wants a Wife on HULU and FOX TV. I’d never been to a farm or been that far south. Thankfully, I met some amazing people filming, and I’m grateful for all the experiences I’ve had so far. Read more>>
Britt Lightning
I went to a Catholic high school which at the time had no music or art programs. But with the help of a teacher Mr. Russo, who would leave his classroom open after school for some kids to jam on some practice amps, I met other guitar-driven classmates and was motivated to prove the all-male room of shredders that I could be just as good. I became Guitar Club President two years later and we started a jam in the school cafeteria once a month, which was my first gig. Read more>>
Christine Garcia
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Like a lot of people I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome. There are days where I question if my work is good enough or if it’s measuring up to the vision I have in my head. It’s something I work through one day at a time. I’ve learned to give myself grace while still pushing to grow and evolve both for myself and for the people who trust me with their stories. Read more>>
Al Rincones
I decided to change directions, and I started on the unscripted producing career path. I first producing job was with “The Biggest Loser,” and quickly climb the ladder from producer to Co-Executive Producer. I’ve now been working as a non-scripted reality tv producer for over 15 years. I’ve led talent and producers in many popular shows and networks, including “America’s Got Talent,” “Marriage Boot Camp,” “Are You The One?”, “Bar Rescue,” “Married at first sight,” “The Apprentice: One Championship Edition,” “Snake Oil,” and many more. Read more>>
Diana Bittar
I always knew that I would be an artist. My mom was quite artistic herself, and she encouraged me at a very young age to draw. I instantly fell in love with it. It became second nature to me. As a student, I always got in trouble in school for sketching and doodling on all my books and notebooks instead of paying attention in class. Eventually, I graduated from Damascus Fine Arts University in 1995 with a specialization in visual communications and graphic design. While diving into art projects, I also started doing numerous commissions for private collectors and showcased my work in local art fairs and competitions. Read more>>
Steve Ellis
After studying with nearly every creditable acting coach, building a resume of commercial work, voiceover work, and on film for tv and film, Los Angeles was booming, until wasn’t. With the drastic change in the industry, I found that Los Angeles also had something else of interest, a massive automotive scene and industry. Read more>>
Shannon Bengston
Growing up in Antwerp, Belgium, I had the privilege to attend a school with a strong acting program which forced me to come out of my shell and develop a real passion for the arts. Later, when my family moved back to the U.S., I enrolled at the University of Redlands, a school known for both its liberal arts education and strong theatre department. While there, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at the London Academy of Dramatic Art (LAMDA), which cemented my decision to pursue a career in the arts. Read more>>
Savanah Baird
Things took off and aligned quickly in my professional life. I began to see how powerful these practices could be—not just for me, but for others. That realization deepened when I started working as a yoga therapist at a behavioral health hospital. I worked closely with patients navigating serious mental health challenges—bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis, addiction—and it completely shifted my perspective on what healing can look like. Read more>>
Ieva
At the same time, fitness was still a major part of my life. I’d already competed in fitness shows in Lithuania, and when I moved to United Stated, I continued competing. In 2002 I won Miss Galaxy in Orlando, Florida, a show founded by George Snyder (fun fact: Tory Wilson won that same title in 1999!). I also competed in NPC Nationals and worked as a fitness model at trade shows like Mr. Olympia and the Arnold Classic. I also worked as a personal trainer, helping people sculpt their bodies and boost their confidence, just like I had to do for myself. Read more>>
Hana Savage
From the bustling courts of Thailand’s Junior National Basketball Team to the cutting-edge clinics of Los Angeles, Hana Savage’s journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. With a degree in physical education and years of athletic discipline, Hana thought her future in fitness was set-until she encountered clients whose chronic pain defied traditional exercise and medical advice. Refusing to accept defeat, she dove into research, discovering the transformative potential of chiropractic care and biomechanics. Now, as a doctor of chiropractic, Hana blends Eastern athletic discipline with Western manual therapies and brain-based rehabilitation, helping clients retrain both body and mind. Her holistic approach Read more>>
Giselle Marte
Now that I’m in California, I’ve been actively participating in art shows, painting murals, and even showcasing my work in film screenings alongside my partner, who’s also a 3D animator and so amazing to share this passion with. I love collaborating, creating, and pushing my artistic limits. Eventually, I want to dive into video game development, Potential Vr experiences bringing my surreal storytelling and animation skills into interactive experiences. Theres lots I want to do. But step by step i know I’ll get there. Read more>>
Polina Kalatsei
I’m originally from Kyiv, Ukraine, where I founded Twerk Sisters Club over 7 years ago. What started as a small local class with pretty much my girlfriends only, but quickly grew into a powerful community. From the beginning, it was never just about dance — it was about creating a space where me as a woman, and of course all my students now could feel free, confident, and connected with another women. Read more>>
Scott Howe
This industry can be unpredictable, which is why I’m always looking six months ahead, planning and pushing to secure the next project. Like any business, there are growing pains, and it’s all about being flexible and learning to adapt. The key is to keep moving forward—one wall, one opportunity at a time. Read more>>
Sevdin Farkhadini
In 2017, I became deeply interested in cryptocurrencies and fintech. I began actively studying the market while building my first websites for small businesses using WordPress. Around the same time, a friend of mine owned a marketing agency that was on the verge of closing, and I stepped in to help. Thanks to my financial background, data management skills, and project management experience, I was able to bring structure and turn chaos into a functioning system. Step by step, I entered the IT world — doing everything from Photoshop and illustrations to websites, video editing, and marketing, mainly for small businesses. Read more>>
Adriana
A.vintageco began in August 2020, but the roots run deeper. During my teenage years I started thrifting with my dad—a quirky hobby that brought us joy and adventure. My mom would always say, “Why do you buy used smelly clothing when you can just purchase something new.” My dad and I would just laugh, knowing the thrill of finding hidden gems among the piles. Read more>>
Darrell & Jenny Bishop
To make ShowCamp a reality, we set out to build strong relationships with the Burbank Unified School District, ultimately creating a vibrant summer program. Over the past 25 years, ShowCamp has faced its share of struggles and challenges, but it has persevered and flourished. From the start, we learned to lean on the trust and support of our community, along with school administrators and local industry professionals who understand the profound value of the arts. Read more>>
Josh Brandon
When I was a kid, I would watch a movie about astronauts and think, “I want to be an astronaut.” Then I’d watch a TV series about doctors and think, “No, I want to be a doctor!” What I eventually realized was that I didn’t want to do any of these things professionally; I wanted to be a storyteller. When I had that revelation, my life changed. I wrote constantly; I convinced my friends to come over on weekends so we could make movies; I started reading whatever screenplays and teleplays I could get my hands on. I just knew that I wanted to be a writer. Read more>>
Niki Metz
I am a Permanent Makeup Artist, and I specialize in natural looking brows. I have a very light hand so my microblading technique is very effortless and gives the “no microblading look” (if that makes sense!) I am not only proud of my loyal clients but the ones who travel from all over the nation to get their brows done by me. I am so honored to have all my clients and to have their trust in me. I give my all in each and every one of my clients and I strive to give them the perfect brow. Read more>>
DJ WLF
I’ve loved listening to music ever since I was a young kid living outside of Portland, Oregon. I was surrounded by a quiet, slow-paced way of life, where overcast skies and steady rain were the norm—except during the brief months of summer. Under-stimulated by life, I found refuge in digging through my dad’s large collection of CDs and MP3s. With my headphones on, I would close my eyes and let the sound of ‘Trip Like I Do’ by The Crystal Method paint visuals in my mind. I would headbang to The Prodigy and Nine Inch Nails in my bedroom. Eminem, Alice In Chains, Nirvana, and Metallica were my companions to school everyday. I’m not sure if my dad ever realized how well I knew his music collection, but exploring it was one of the most influential experiences of my life. Read more>>
Sheri Jimenez
In early 2024, I made the decision to have weight loss surgery as part of my healing journey—physically and emotionally. I started documenting it on social media, not expecting much. But something beautiful happened. People started reaching out, telling me that my story made them feel seen, that they felt inspired. Suddenly, I had a new sense of purpose. Read more>>
Myrene Dulay-Martinez
Just like in nursing, the beauty industry offers many specialties. I unexpectedly fell in love with acne treatment, even though I never experienced acne myself. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about witnessing the healing transformation of a client—it’s both rewarding and inspiring. My passion for helping others, responding to their needs, and being part of their journey toward confidence and wellness has carried over seamlessly from nursing into esthetics. Read more>>
Matthew Berger
I applied to the USC School of Cinematic Arts with a short documentary I made about conservation in the Okavango Delta. I was fortunate to be accepted, and over the next three years, I immersed myself in editing and producing student films — over five thesis projects, including a multicam sitcom, a three-episode drama series, and USC’s first virtual production thesis shot on an LED wall. One of the films I edited became a finalist in the Student BAFTA Awards, which was a huge milestone. Read more>>
B. Dave Walters
I’ve had comics and graphic novels I wrote published, film and tv scripts I wrote produced, TTRPGs I wrote released, self-published novels, and more. I am in a very small group of people who’ve had success in so many different mediums; anything you can do with the written word, I’ve done. Read more>>
Mia Donder
I am known for how I do my glowy natural makeup looks, and that’s what I get booked most for. I love making peoples skin look glowy and healthy. I used to have bad acne as a teenager and learned how to cover up blemishes at a young age, I now use that as inspiration to focus on making my clients skin look radiant and beautiful. I also like to add a bit of an editorial edge to my glowy clean makeup looks. I have a background working in fashion and editorial so any chance I get to test my creativity is always so fun for me and makes me feel proud of my artistry. Read more>>
Mike Palmer
I was also dedicated to teaching myself other instruments such as the guitar, bass, and the ukulele, and I enjoyed every second of doing so. I joined my high school orchestra, then my university’s, funding my own education entirely to keep studying music. Over time, I realized I didn’t just want to play music—I wanted to create it, perform it, and make it my full-time career. In college, I started producing and recording my own music. My debut album, All at Once, was written, produced, recorded, and mixed entirely by me, all from my bedroom back home to my college bedroom. Since then, I’ve worked on projects with other artists, bands, and filmmakers, and the journey thus far has been incredible. Read more>>
Danny Arellano
This journey started almost 15 years ago. I was first introduced to third-wave specialty coffee while attending The Master’s College in Newhall, CA, where I met my wife, Stephanie. This is an important detail! I had a Chemex, a hand grinder, and a mini pour-over station that my dad and I built and it was fully equipped with scales, timers and gooseneck kettles. I fell in love with the craft and science of brewing a great cup of coffee, I found much enjoyment and excitement in visiting different coffee shops all over LA and I wanted to learn more. Read more>>
Julisa Chavez
It was the best decision I’ve ever made. I reconnected with the creativity that had always been a part of me. For years, family, friends, and co-workers told me I had a creative spark, but it wasn’t until I paused to reflect that I began to believe it myself. Every chapter of my life has been a blessing and a building block, shaping the person I am today. I am blessed that along the way I made incredible connections with people who have mentored, supported, and guided me. Two of the most influential people in my life have been my parents, who never held me back and instead gave me a legacy of hard work, loyalty, and perseverance. Read more>>
Natalie Nora
I’m a content creator, social media strategist, and the face behind “Glam Girl Natalie” a fashion and beauty platform that blends style with storytelling. I specialize in affordable, trend-forward fashion that’s accessible and fun. From try-on hauls and GRWM videos to humorous voiceovers and cinematic reels, my content is rooted in authenticity and emotion. Read more>>
Payton Brianne
Compassionate Canine Society began with a simple mission: to be there for dogs when no one else can. For years, I’ve volunteered with rescue groups and fostered countless animals, but I knew I wanted to create something more focused, more direct— something that tackled the systemic issues putting animals at risk. We started by pulling dogs from high-kill shelters, particularly those overlooked because of age, breed, or medical needs. What began as a small mother-daughter rescue effort has grown into a full nonprofit dog rescue and education program. Now, we’re proud to be expanding our work into advocacy and legal reform. Read more>>
Gabriella
During that time, I developed a passion for music that I thought was just a hobby and am so grateful that it’s not anymore. I used it was a way to cope with bullying in my early years and mental struggles I faced, and still do face. I learned how to play guitar and piano at the same time I started writing little songs – they came hand in hand. For timeline, I’ve been playing guitar and piano since I was about 7 and producing out my compositions at 12. Singing came shortly after because I needed to execute the vocal melodies that I heard. From there, I kind of became my own band and now I pursue it as my career! Read more>>
Sarah Bibiyan
Starting a business during a global pandemic? Definitely not the easy route. Building Rise Up Studios from scratch came with a lot of late nights, self-doubt, and learning on the fly. I wore all the hats—owner, instructor, scheduler, cleaner—you name it. And like any small business, there were moments where it felt overwhelming. Read more>>
Gambeaux
I always knew I wanted to be a performing artist since I was performing for my mom and grandma in our living room or kitchen, in Disney princess costumes. That passion transformed into me turning my early poems into songs on the classic DAW, Garageband, enrolling in voice and guitar lessons, and eventually doing musicals all throughout elementary and high school. I’m from Chicago, which has an amazing performing arts program for high schoolers called Gallery 37, as well as the After School Matters programs, which allowed me to study voice performance, and classical and jazz music while in high school. Read more>>
Josh Russell
My mom was an artist of sorts and taught me a lot about creativity and materials. We weren’t poor, but we didn’t have money to buy me and my younger brother every toy we wanted, and the stuff we wanted most of the time didn’t even exist to buy! So I quickly gained a penchant for DIY method arts and crafts, using found objects and cheap techniques to reach an artistic goal, earliest examples of this the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle weapons, Lightsabers, things like that which are never quite right when you buy the toy version off the shelf. Read more>>
Tori Brazeal
I love how creative I get to be with vivids and how bright and head turning the final looks can be! I have been specializing in sew-in extensions for 5 years now and love how versatile the service can be, from adding inches of length to adding a weft for fullness, I love how much confidence it can give someone. I also recently have realized how much of a niche reds and coopers can be and that most blonde specialists don’t enjoy doing them, send them my way ladies!!! I like to think I’m queen of the weird Barbie’s and want to make all the rainbow mermaid hair dreams come true. I’m really proud of how far I have come in my career and the fact I co-own a salon under the age of 30 is a big accomplishment I never dreamed of achieving. Read more>>
Alison Deyette
I didn’t take the straight path—I took the glossy one. I started out as a magazine editor and writer, spending my days crafting clever cover lines, writing a variety of articles from lifestyle to semi-hard-hitting pieces and interviewing celebrities. An editor liked the way I dressed and nudged me into the fashion and beauty arena. That led to becoming a fashion and beauty director, which meant meeting with designers, brands, attending fashion shows, working alongside photographers, casting models, overseeing a larger staff and determining what to cover, shoot and write about. Read more>>
Dhivya Srinivasa
During this transition I became really interested in real estate and made some worthwhile decisions on the residential side. I just now transitioned to commercial real estate. I am also launching AVARA this month! I could not be more excited. AVARA is the first health inclusive skin care brand to hit the market. I was inspired by the women I treat every day that are healing from cancer. The reality is, many women are healing from something, whether IVF, post partum, autoimmune conditions, menopause, cancer or something else! Read more>>
Monica Nevarez
One of the hardest lessons early on was learning to truly meet clients where they’re at. Everyone’s path is so different, and if you don’t start there, it doesn’t matter how skilled or knowledgeable you are. The connection just won’t land. That’s a tough skill to build, and even once you do, it takes humility to remember that what worked for one person won’t necessarily work for the next. I try to start fresh with every client and slow down when I feel myself rushing ahead. That reset always brings me back to what matters. Read more>>
Christian “Cali” Lopez
I ended up studying at Glendon College, a French-language university in Toronto, and that’s where my love for languages and education really started to bloom. I majored in Linguistics and English, picked up French and Italian, and completely fell for the art of communication. I also got super involved on campus, working as the communications officer for the student newspaper and the DJ liaison for the campus radio station. That’s when I really started to get a taste for media and storytelling. Read more>>
Chanel Kenner
After spending 12 years in the advertising and marketing industry as a search and social marketing specialist, I realized that my true calling was in helping others cultivate a healthier relationship with food. This realization led me back to academia, where I pursued a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at California State University, Northridge, followed by the completion of a dietetic internship in order to sit for the Dietetics credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian. Read more>>
Alden Lo Bosco
I hand draw locations around Los angeles and then use acrylic markers to add bright and bold colors. I digitize and print the art as wall art and stickers. I think what sets me apart from others is my unique whimsical style. I try to change some details and colors to make it as if we are living in a fantasy land! I also draw commissions of people’s homes and I love being able to provide personalized gifts for people. Read more>>
Rachael Dickhute
I moved to Los Angeles nearly 20 years ago to attend college, where I earned my degree in marketing. Right after graduation, I stepped into the fashion industry, working in marketing roles and learning firsthand how to build brand value in a competitive space. I stayed in that world for over a decade before transitioning into academia, where I became a professor at my alma mater, teaching digital marketing to college students. Read more>>
Matt Courtois
I took on significant responsibilities in programming and project management while also creating a substantial portion of the animation assets. At the conclusion of the program, our team presented a playable prototype and individual portfolios to a jury of industry professionals. Among them was a former student employed at Ubisoft Paris, who introduced me to the concept of “gameplay animation.” He recognized the value of my programming background, noting that such hybrid skill sets were rare and highly sought after. Inspired by his advice, I dedicated the following summer to refining my demo reel, incorporating his feedback. This effort led to an internship at Ubisoft in 2012, a pivotal milestone that launched my career. Read more>>
Julia Bush
It was hard to give up teaching because I love being in the classroom with adorable students and making up projects and watching them learn and create. I’ll always cherish those memories and be a little emotional when I see my old students all grown up. Initially, it was difficult choosing myself, but being in my thirties brought on new perspectives about life and my goals and dreams, and I felt that it was time for a new chapter. Read more>>
Reno Karimian
One of the biggest challenges I faced was building a company from the ground up in an industry where trust is hard to earn and easy to lose. I had to overcome betrayal, financial risk, and intense stress—especially in the early years. Finding and retaining the right team was also incredibly difficult, as many skilled workers were already employed elsewhere and hesitant to take a chance on something new. But through persistence, high standards, and a clear vision, I built a business I’m proud of and one that supports many families today. Read more>>
Lauren LoGrasso
If you look at my journey, there’s no mistaking that my first, second, third and even fourth plan didn’t go as expected. When I moved to LA, all I wanted to do on this sweet Earth was act. I wanted to be a working actress more than I wanted anything. Even more than I wanted to be myself. So even though I loved acting so much, and I had some success (joining SAG, getting paid jobs, etc.) I came to realize I was in a codependent relationship with it and I had to distance myself from it. After that, I have tried to never wind my identity so tightly with what I do. My biggest life philosophy is that who you are is the best thing about you. My life’s work is learning to divest my worth from the outcome of my work–a tricky thing to do when the work you do relies on public approval. But I love a challenge. Read more>>
Christy Khonesavanh
I’m a licensed manicurist with over 10 years of experience in the nail business and have been in this industry since before gel nails, gel-X, and dip powders were created. Over 10+ years ago we weren’t required to attend cosmetology/nail school to receive your license in the beauty industry but instead could work as an apprentice under a Master Cosmetologist in order to take your exam after the completion of hours that were required to obtain your license. Obtaining my license has been one of my greatest achievements in this life because I would not be where I am today. Read more>>
Ram Kanneganti
I never let go of the theater bug and eventually applied to NYU Tisch. I got in which was a big deal for me. No one in my family was involved in the arts and here I am going to one of the premier acting institutions in the World. I wish I could tell you that moving to New York was a culture shock, but growing up in India, the noise, the smells, the large density of people felt like home. What was a culture shock was theater training. It taught me to be vulnerable, to take risks and most importantly that it’s okay to fail. Read more>>
Tess Aubert
As much as I could simply provide a list of my bumps in the road, I’d rather pair it with the lessons I’ve learned from them. For instance, as a small female-bodied queer biracial third culture kid, many people will test your boundaries and try to take advantage of you. So you need to work a bit harder to learn how to be “the boss of you.” And when there aren’t many role models front and center who you can directly relate to, you need to trust your own hard work and earned success no matter how much others might doubt it. Read more>>
Nazaneen Iravani
I once had a teacher tell me that I was only good enough to work at McDonald’s. Me? The AP student, the Academic Decathlon Competitor — the girl who, even at a young age, already knew exactly who she wanted to be and where she was going. I know, crazy, right? Like I said before, I always knew that education would be my golden ticket out, and some would say, my eyes were always on the prize. Read more>>
Kimberly Butler
I attended the Chicago College of Performing Arts from 2014-2018, and graduated with a BFA in Musical Theatre. I was very fortunate to study under Broadway alumni, including Jane Lanier, Nancy Hess, and Shanna Vanderwerker. I also frequented extracurricular classes at Lou Conte Dance Studio and the Joffrey Ballet. It was during my sophomore year of college that I signed up for my very first aerial silks class. Why did I choose aerial silks? Google the Pippin Playbill, and you will see that an aerialist is featured in the artwork. Read more>>
Sarah Hawkins
During the 2020 lockdown due to the CoronaVirus, I remained in my basement, making analogue animations and photographing them at home on a makeshift setup. I was exploring, embracing humor, and trusting my instincts. At this point my practice was heavily drawing based. Everything that I did was very ‘DIY’. I graduated with my Bachelors degree, but felt like I missed out on some technical knowledge and skills due to the pandemic. Read more>>
Monica Chatman
My journey started from a deeply personal place. A few years ago, I began experiencing anxiety and panic attack disorder. During one of my lowest points, I discovered that coloring helped me feel calm and grounded—it became a form of mindfulness that allowed me to breathe, slow down, and focus. But as I searched for coloring books that reflected people who looked like me and my children, I noticed a huge gap. Black men, women, and children were simply underrepresented in these spaces. Read more>>
Amol Ramani
I personally believe that if it’s a smooth road, you aren’t doing it right! It’s the same with our characters. Coming from a filmmaking background and not really having any kind of acting experience put me in a tough spot. I ended up overthinking my actions and was ultra conscious of what I was doing. I had to forget everything I thought I knew and build a new actor from the ground up. I did have help though. Some of the best instructors at NYFA guided me through the process of letting go of my old habits, some conscious, some subconscious. End of the day, if you struggle, it means you’re doing it right! Persistence and consistency will get you where you need to be. Don’t give up on yourself. Read more>>
Sandra McCurdy
Over time, I transitioned behind the camera and found my passion in photography—specializing in actors’ headshots, fashion/branding and lifestyle portraits. That creative journey eventually led me to co-found, Silked a clean beauty brand with my partner, Phoenix Gonzales. As the creative director, I also handle all of the brand’s photography. We’ve been fortunate to collaborate with and be featured in outlets like Harper’s Bazaar, Dwell, Good Housekeeping, Fabfitfun, and American Express. We hand make some of our products and manufacture locally in DTLA. Read more>>
Lesley-Anne Stone
Our journey took a hopeful turn when we were introduced to Dr. Randhawa and the Tolerance Induction Program at the Food Allergy Institute in Long Beach. We began treatment when Sam was three, and after two years, he graduated from the program. Today, he lives a life of full food freedom—he eats whatever he wants, whenever he wants. He is now approaching seven years in food allergy remission. Read more>>
Kyan Kumar
During high school, I took it upon myself to learn more about finance—how to budget, save, invest, and build credit. I realized quickly that these weren’t just adult skills; they were essential tools that teenagers needed, too. So I started visiting schools around Los Angeles — Mirman School, Hamilton High School, Boys and Girls Clubs —giving short talks and workshops on money management for teens. I made it practical and relatable: how to save for a new phone, how to avoid debt, how to support yourself with smart decisions. Read more>>
Cass Parker
There was something about the process that just clicked for me. It was this perfect mix of science, patience, and creativity, and I loved the endless possibilities it offered. I started experimenting, learning as much as I could, and sharing my pieces online. Pretty quickly, I realized there was an audience out there that connected with what I was making—especially in the gaming community. Read more>>
Carolyn Martin
It’s been a wild and challenging journey filled with ups and downs, but my passion for helping people become their best selves has only grown stronger. At Revision Fitness and Wellness, we strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals can focus on their health, recovery, and personal growth. I believe that fitness is not just about building physical strength; it’s about fostering resilience, community, and well-being. Read more>>
Randeep
Eventually, I moved to Kuala Lumpur and freelanced in corporate events, social productions, and live music events as a videographer, editor, and photographer. Even though I was working in the creative field, there was always a stronger pull toward narrative storytelling—something that felt larger, more meaningful. Watching films wasn’t just entertainment for me; it became a study of human emotion, visual composition, and storytelling structure. Read more>>
Solei
Starting a business, especially in wellness and food, is no joke. In the beginning, there was a lot of trial and error — from sourcing fresh ingredients to finding the right bottles and labels that matched the vibe I wanted to create. I didn’t come from a background in manufacturing or logistics, so figuring out how to scale, stay consistent, and meet demand as it started to grow was a huge learning curve.. Read more>>
Lisa Treen
My journey started when I was 23 I spent many years as a manicurist.. I spent hours each day holding people’s hands, and I quickly realized that it wasn’t just about the service — it was about the connection. Through touch, I could feel what people were carrying emotionally, and over time, I learned how to be present with them in a way that made them feel truly seen and heard. They came not just for a manicure, but for the sense of calm and connection they found in those sessions. That experience opened my eyes to the power of the mind-body connection. I knew I was meant to do something more to make a difference for the people I touched. Read more>>
Sarit Saruri
I didn’t set out to become an interior designer — it really happened by accident. I started my design career in Corporate America as an Art Director in Web and Graphic Design, and spent years building a career in that field. I always loved interiors and was constantly redesigning and decorating my own home, but I never seriously considered it as a career path since I was already established in the digital design world. Read more>>
Millie Montgomery
After graduating, I clocked thousands of supervised hours toward licensure while juggling personal responsibilities. It wasn’t glamorous, but it gave me exposure to a variety of therapeutic modalities and populations. Eventually, I passed the licensure exam and opened a small part-time private practice in 2022, The Stable Mental Health Services. It started with just a few clients a week, and over time it has grown. Read more>>
Max Fills
I started building my socials, testing the waters, and eventually posting full nudes — face and all. Once I made that leap, I knew I was all in. I began reaching out to female creators, hoping someone would take a chance and shoot with me. It was tough at first — lots of silence, a few rejections. But once I started filming with Hailey Rose and a couple of our videos went viral, everything changed. Read more>>
