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.
Alexandra Meredith
One of the moments I’ve felt most proud of recently has been choosing to start over and fully commit to building a career rooted in purpose and service. I dedicated myself to esthetics school, put in the work day in and day out, and earned my Esthetician license through consistency, discipline, and determination. Read more>>
Nautica Mason
I actually get this question a lot. For the most part, yes. What people see is the composed, capable version of me: the student, the service member, the professional, the mother who gets things done. That version is authentic—it reflects my discipline, my work ethic, and my sense of responsibility. Read more>>
Stone Abdullah
I tried to take my life on July 11th, 2025, at 7:48 PM Eastern Daylight Time. Cut my wrists. You know why it didn’t work? One of my conditions, the severe peptic ulcer disease, makes it difficult to stay hydrated. That impacts your blood’s viscosity. Read more>>
Jasna Bhayani
Growing up in the heart of a war-torn environment, I faced challenges that often felt insurmountable. There were moments when I questioned if I would ever emerge into the light. Yet, through that suffering, I discovered lessons that success alone could never teach me. It instilled within me a profound sense of gratitude and a deep appreciation for the small joys in life. Read more>>
Dr. Rita Renee’
I believe many people are quietly struggling with the inability to say no—without guilt, fear, or the need to explain themselves. Especially strong women who lead, serve, and succeed often feel pressured to be everything for everyone, while slowly losing clarity about what they actually need. Read more>>
Khalia Aimee Kenny
I think people may misunderstand my journey because it hasn’t followed a predictable path. There have been many chapters and experiences, each meaningful in its own way. I love to have fun, whether that looks like dancing in a club, taking hot photos, going on a date, walking and silence in the mountains, or simply spending quality time with my son. Read more>>
Stevii Mills
I think people may misunderstand how much of my legacy was built through uncertainty, setbacks, and quiet obedience. From the outside, it might look like confidence, success, or boldness came easily, but much of my path has required rebuilding, surrender, and choosing faith over fear when the outcome was not guaranteed. Read more>>
Iasia Montana-Maye
A cultural value I protect at all costs is humanity, showing up with empathy, grace, and presence. We lead with the understanding that everyone is carrying something, even if you can’t see it. At Espressate, that value is deeply intertwined with Cuban coffee culture, where coffee is an invitation to pause, connect, and be in community. Read more>>
Xela Bela
I’m carving a path. I think I was wandering for years, but in 2025 I found the start of the path I’m on now. Everything I’m doing now has intention behind it, and I’m paving my own way as a queer music artist. Read more>>
Mattie Weingarten-Pardy
You’ll be fine! I spent so much time worrying about how things were going to work out instead of just enjoying the moment and being present. Life moves fast, and I wish I’d focused on the freedom and flexibility of my teens and twenties versus trying to propel myself into the next phase. Read more>>
Pasquale Caccavella
As I might have previously hinted to, I’d like to become a regenerative farmer. Conventional farmers are retiring faster than their industry replacement rate. There’s good reason too, U.S. farmers have one of the highest rates of suicide of any other occupation. Why would a young person want to spend their lives in debt? Read more>>
Roxanne Engstrom
I am most proud of investing in relationships with people & building family relationships and friendships in the entrepreneur community. I love helping others feel celebrated and confident and I get to do that both as a mama of four and in my work as a brand storyteller. Read more>>
S. Raenae Thompson
I stopped hiding my pain when I realized my silence was protecting the harm instead of my healing. For 4 years, I carried what I experienced quietly—processing the betrayal, the public humiliation, and the emotional weight of being misrepresented online by someone I trusted. I told myself staying quiet meant staying strong. Read more>>
