We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way – we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.
Tonya M. Cowan
Being a woman who is a single mother of two daughters, manages a full-time 9 to 5 career, pursues entrepreneurship, and leads as the founder of a women’s empowerment organization, I discover peace by coordinating my various roles through intentional practices and a strong sense of purpose. Read more>>
Derrick Thorpe
I feel most at peace when I’m in the presence of God and fully immersed in service, whether that’s preaching, praying, or quietly walking alongside someone in need. Read more>>
Reginald Spencer
My mother. There’s a saying that goes, “mama knows.” Yes she did. There were numerous times where I’ve doubted myself. However, my mother gave me the courage, and spoke life into me because she knew the son she raised. She knew that she poured into a hard working, resilient individual. . Read more>>
Jamario Battle
My mother. I said that because, when I started DJing she was there when it was hard for me to get a gig. She would always tell me to practice and keep going because, someone will notice your gift. So, she was my support system when it came to it. Read more>>
Tearra Arrington
Before I became a full time entrepreneur, my biggest goal was to land a corporate level marketing position. I was told that was what success was. You go to college. You get your degree. And then secure a position that allows you to use that degree. I wanted it so bad! And I did accomplish that. Read more>>
Chris Clamp
If I knew that I only had 10 years left to live, I would stop wasting time. We all get so distracted watching tv and playing on our phones, but ultimately that is just taking precious time away from our families and our goals. Read more>>
Juliana De Giacometti Vitti
If I knew I had 10 years left, I’d stop being my own harshest critic. I’d quit picking myself apart for not doing enough, not being enough, or not looking a certain way. The truth is, I already have what matters, family, friends, laughter, and work I love. I wouldn’t waste another minute worrying about the extra pounds, the wrinkles, or the bad hair days. Read more>>
Debra Johnson
I think my customers would miss the individualized experience that they and their pet receive from Poodles and Bob. We take pride in our curated menu of high-quality items that are effective and safe for their pet’s individual needs. Read more>>
Taylor White
That if the work is good enough, it’ll be found. Visibility isn’t always merit-based. Some of the least skilled artists I know are the most visible, while some of the best struggle to be seen. I used to think if I just got good enough, I’d be discovered and all my problems would be solved. Read more>>
Mya Fountain
I’m chasing financial freedom, not just for myself, but for my family and friends as well. My goal is to be in a position where I can bless others, give generously, and create opportunities without having to check an account balance first. Read more>>
Taylor Bissette
I’m chasing what we call in the country music world a “neon rainbow”. Playing at every Honkytonk bar and dive that we can so we can make this happen and be in front of 10, 100, or 1,000 people that need some healing. That’s what it’s all about. Read more>>
Mikayla Carroll
I think the battle I’m avoiding is the one that forces me to face what’s really going on inside of me. Read more>>
Dylan Dent
Broken communication or a lack or reciprocity in some way is usually the thing that kills relationships in my experience. Doesn’t matter what kind either. Platonic, romantic, intimate, arms length, workplace or some mixture of things. If you’re not communicating well, it dies. If the give and take is off, it dies. Read more>>
Tamika Bell
What I believe so many people secretly struggle with, but rarely say out loud, is the exhaustion of constantly performing. Trying to focus on wellness, success, and togetherness while quietly unraveling beneath the surface. Read more>>
Brittany Foti, LMBT, MMP, MLD-C
That I was “just a massage therapist.” People might miss that my legacy isn’t only about hands-on work — it’s about advocacy, education, and pushing an entire developing field forward. Read more>>
Dennis Hering
I think people might misunderstand my legacy as being about achievement, the businesses I built, the titles I held, or the content I created. But the real legacy I’m building isn’t about how much I did, it’s about how deeply I loved, served, and pointed people to something greater than myself. Read more>>
Henoc Maurice
The relationship that really shaped who I am today is my relationship with God. Reading the Bible and growing in my faith and who God says I am has been very imperative to my growth. Read more>>
Maranda Morgan
My relationship with God shaped how I see myself. Without him I wouldn’t be able to do any of this. “He wakes me up every morning and started me on my way” to be great, to help others and to just be me. Bold, beautiful and resilient. Also my mom! Read more>>
angelica betancourt
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I decided to move forward with my dream of creating Qué Más Pues Raleigh. At that moment, everything around me seemed uncertain and even impossible, but taking that first step—despite fear and doubt—made me realize the strength I carry within. Read more>>
Jonathon Leach
I think the first time I really felt powerful was when I completed my first deployment in Iraq. I spent about 12 years in the military and i deployed twice to Iraq. The first time was really interesting and intense. I was proud that I was able to make it back alive in one peace. Read more>>
Anne Harkness
I used to believe that if I did all the right things, God would love me. If I did all the things, then I was a good person. That is what God was looking for. The problem is, I was faced with my inability to be that idealized person. I had blinders on. Read more>>
Brittany Burns
Integrity. For me, integrity isn’t just about being honest—it’s about alignment. It’s making sure that who I am privately, publicly, and professionally match. Coming from the justice field and now moving in spaces of research, teaching, and entrepreneurship, I’ve seen how easy it is for people to compromise their values for approval, money, or power. I refuse. Read more>>
Michelle Schaefer
A cultural value I protect at all costs is dignity. Whether it is in how we serve families, work with partners, or support our team, dignity is non-negotiable. It means creating an environment where every person feels respected, heard, and valued, no matter their circumstances. When dignity is at the center, trust grows, collaboration thrives, and the impact we make is deeper and longer lasting. Read more>>
Quiata Mitchell
One of the most surprising things I’ve learned about my customers is how much they value my perspective. When I first started, I thought most people just wanted someone to execute tasks and get things done. Read more>>
Embers Cards
Okay, let’s take a step back, who are the smart people? What we are getting wrong is assuming that the smart people are the people in places of power, may that be a manager, a CEO, a president, or even a college graduate. Read more>>
Mason Chavis
I admire my Parents I have seen them overcome very hard battles but they stood together strong and made it through each one for them without complaining about any of the challenges they have faced. They have shown me to never give up when situations get hard but to be thankful for it all because it builds your character and strength. Read more>>
