Marissa Reyes Duran shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Marissa, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
The most commonly misunderstood aspect of my business is that it is merely a magazine, through which I derive substantial revenue. MHP Lounge offers far more than that. We provide a diverse range of products for both men and women, including custom clothing, accessories, bathing essentials, and beauty products. Additionally, we facilitate financial education, support charities in their fundraising efforts, feature models to enhance their career opportunities, and assist business owners by promoting their services at no cost to drive new business. Furthermore, we offer a complimentary platform for artists to showcase their talents in any artistic form.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Marissa, and I am my parents’ seventh child. I was born in Texas and primarily raised in Roswell, New Mexico, specifically in Roswell. I had a brief residency in Corpus Christi, Texas, before relocating to the Dallas/Fort Worth area in 2000. Throughout my life, I have felt a strong calling to assist those in need, although I often faced challenges in identifying effective ways to fulfill this purpose. The magazine I am involved with serves as a platform to support local charities and highlight community members, be they business owners, artists, or models. Currently, we are focused on raising funds for our upcoming quarterly charity for volume 13, which will benefit The Purple Door, an organization dedicated to advocating against domestic violence and providing additional support services. We anticipate introducing volume 14 along with a new charity in October 2025.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that family would never and could never hurt you. I stopped believing that around the age of 11. When my father passed in April 2025, I confirmed it. Family can and will hurt you. The thing that I hold on to is knowing that if you don’t take care of yourself, don’t do for yourself, and don’t put yourself first, no one else will. My strong spiritual connections keep me grounded and humble.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear I experienced was not solely my own; this fear originated from my mother, a sentiment deeply rooted in her experiences as an immigrant alongside my father, as they navigated the challenges of remaining undocumented in the U.S. for many years before obtaining citizenship. My mother’s apprehensions were numerous, and she appeared to transfer them to one of my sisters and me. Consequently, we were raised in an environment where we were often fearful, to the extent that even falling could provoke anxiety for her. This caused us so much fear that even riding bicycles or swimming became difficult for my sister and me. I recognize that this persistent fear had a significant impact on our lives. It followed us into adulthood, influencing my decision to remain in an unfulfilling marriage to a narcissistic individual for over a decade longer than necessary, primarily due to my fear of confronting my mother regarding my desire to end my 23-year marriage.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
Religion. My beliefs were strong growing up, shaped by what I was taught, which is all I knew at the time. I confidently stand by those beliefs, but as I opened my mind and heart, I realized I was somewhat naive in accepting everything I was instilled with. I believe that a religion is not necessary to cultivate a meaningful relationship or connection with God. My faith has not diminished; rather, I have established a deeper connection without the distractions, and should I be wrong, I will discover the truth in the afterlife. I respect each person’s journey and will never question or judge anyone who embraces their faith, nor will I attempt to persuade anyone to abandon their beliefs.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I am near a body of water, the sounds take me out of my head, and I can create, I can think of stories to write, poems to compose, digital products to create. The sound, the feeling, and the smell take me to a happy place, the most peaceful place.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mhplounge.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mhplounge/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhplounge/
- Twitter: https://x.com/mhplounge?s=11
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MHPLOUNGE
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mhplounge7278
