Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below – many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.
Julio Cesar Arraut
I’m absolutely pursuing my true calling. Everything in my life up to now has been spontaneous and unexpected. I’ve been fortunate enough to spot great opportunities, and with sound judgment, I’ve seized those chances to create a life that lets me chase my dreams and do what I enjoy. Read more>>
Cassie (CeCe) Cunningham
Yes, I have given my best on multiple occasions. In the past, I shared my work on social media platforms, and the number of likes or external validation did not always meet my expectations. While this used to bother me, I have since learned to recognize my own worth. Read more>>
Onajide Shabaka
Yes! Sometimes it’s necessary to be a better listener and observer. Events or situations don’t always fully open and expose everything. Not acting fast gives one the opportunity to get a fuller picture and that might be the crucial difference in understanding it. Read more>>
Martina Sterman
Yes, it happened to me with fashion school. For years, I dreamed of creating my own clothes, starting a brand, and building something of my own. I studied for four years in four different universities, graduated, and earned my diploma. I was good at what I did, but over time I realized that I didn’t truly identify with that path. Read more>>
Nicole Anderson
My love. Everyone around me knows without question that they are loved. If you’re in my circle, you’ll never have to wonder, I’ll tell you outright, even if it makes you a little uncomfortable. I’ve learned that many people have been hurt by love, or taught to see it as conditional. mine is not. Read more>>
Stan Sherwin
Absolutely! One thing about me is that I am as real as it gets. Love me or hate me I am who I am. I am extremely far from perfect and damn sure not scared to show my flaws. Only way to help the younger generation is to be completely real and vulnerable so that they can relate to you 100% Read more>>
Paul Morris
I want to be completely transparent—there have been so many moments when I felt like giving up. I wanted to give up on music. But then Make It Bang stepped in to help mix my beats. Neri offered to produce for me and provide studio time. Richy B jumped in to play guitar. Read more>>
Isaac Rendon
Most def! The pressure doesn’t stop but one thing I did learned along the way is you need this pressure if you’re going to be the person you weren’t and wanting to become all along. Read more>>
Quincy Gainous
The biggest lie the industry tells itself is that it’s not for everyone. The truth is, anyone can dance, act, sing, model, whatever they want, if they put in the work. The real challenge isn’t talent; it’s comparison. It’s easy to measure yourself against someone else, but that only keeps you trapped in someone else’s standards. Read more>>
Betsy Vedder
Honestly, I’m most proud of building two things that don’t always get noticed: my family and my business. As a homeschooling mom of four, so much of what I do every day is behind the scenes, showing up consistently, creating routines and stability, pouring into my kids. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the heart of everything for me. Read more>>
Florencia Faiatt
I’m proudest of building something that doesn’t always show on the outside: discipline, patience, and the small daily acts that create a better life. What nobody sees are the early mornings of practice, the hours of study, and the quiet commitment behind every class I teach. Read more>>
Paolo Mugnaini
Trust is everything. That’s what I keep coming back to in my work and in life. It’s trust that holds friendships together when everything else falls apart. Trust that good things can still happen even when the world feels like it’s going to shit. Trust that people will show up for each other when it matters. Read more>>
Sthefany Azevedo
One of the biggest misconceptions about Jungla is that it’s only about fitness or that we’re just another CrossFit gym. Our foundation is functional training, designed to help people move better and feel stronger in everyday life. From the start, Paula and I have focused on meeting people where they are, empowering every member, and creating real connections. Read more>>
Reni Papalexiou
One of the most common misconceptions is that what we do is simply a picnic setup or a decorative service. At Sun Served Bespoke Picnics, our work is about so much more than a beautiful table in a park or room décor. We create intentional spaces where people can pause, be present, and truly celebrate life’s moments. Read more>>
Nadjhla Gracia
I think what people might most misunderstand about my legacy is that it’s only about swimwear. Yes, bikinis and design are the medium, but the true story is about purpose, sustainability, and culture. My work isn’t just to make something beautiful to wear on the beach, it’s to show that fashion can tell stories, honor heritage, and inspire change. Read more>>
Suki Lopez
Honestly, fear of what others think. That’s been a constant battle. Which is ironic because it is one of the major lessons I work on with my students. I’m always injecting mini lectures in my classes, ‘Mistakes are part of the process. Read more>>
Ashley Oliver
One of the defining wounds of my life came when I made the decision to leave the medical field. I had invested so many years of schooling into a path I once loved, and walking away from it felt like losing a part of myself. Read more>>
Alexander Tavarez
I would have to say that it’s the memories that I’m making on the set of my current film, “Fractured Mind”, with old and new friends, making a story come to life. Read more>>
Raquel King
I hope people think that I was a creative person who tried hard to reach those who seemed unreachable…. I hope that they looked at me as the type of person who would root for the underdog, and do what they could to help those who needed it. Read more>>
Rebecca Edelson
Traveling is like, the ultimate time warp, and I feel so free. You’re in a new place, vibin’ with different cultures, meetin’ new peeps… next thing you know, days have passed and you’re like ‘wait, what day is it again?’ And findin’ yourself? That’s like the ultimate bonus! Read more>>
Alana Reina
As an eldest daughter, I grew up learning that my value was in my usefulness and ability to help others. It’s no wonder I ended up becoming a therapist as an adult! Although I truly love helping people and find joy in seeing people flourish, I realized I no longer align with doing therapy full time. Read more>>
Cari Sanders (Blackstock)
I love this question and talk about it often in my personal life. There is more than one but they all intertwine to create the person you see today. In my late teens I met Julius. Ju took me under his wing and introduced me to my first community. Read more>>
Alejandra Dorado
Without a doubt, my dad has been the person who’s shaped me the most. He’s my inspiration and the one who has always had my back. He challenges me constantly — sometimes more than I’d like! — but that’s because he knows I can always give a little more than I think I can. Read more>>
Allexa Fiori
Being powerful is not about being the loudest in the room- It’s about being the sharpest. There was a moment that reminded me exactly why I do what I do- and why confidence, clarity and standing ground matters. I was representing a seller who agreed to a substantial amount off the price of her home. Read more>>
Buck Martinez
They would easily say “family” but also mention that I have a passion for youth. Teaching honor and integrity through “Character and Leadership Training” is a passion that burns deep. I work closely with many high school and collegiate student athletes on the tough issues and challenges they face in today’s difficult world. Read more>>
Wendy A.
My closest friend would say that I’m someone who never gives up on my dreams and always finds a way to turn challenges into opportunities. They’d probably highlight my positivity and how I try to uplift others, even when I’m facing my own struggles. Read more>>
Marianne Murciano
I’m committed to building something that lasts longer than I do. For me, that’s Savvy Planet. It’s a project, a platform, and a personal mission. What started as a product line evolved into a community where I share recipes, stories, ideas, and expert insights to help people live more fully, with purpose and joy, at any age. Read more>>
Alana Gissen
I was fortunate to grow up in a family whose mission in life was helping others. My parents, Matthew and Helene Gissen, were pioneers in the substance abuse treatment field, dedicating their lives to supporting people struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. My father was a true icon and innovator in our industry. Read more>>
Cristi Hernz
Integrity is the most important to me because being true to yourself is the real fuel for everything else you do. If you can’t live knowing you need to do the right thing, you end up taking shortcuts that might seem easier in the moment but eventually turn into problems you’ll have to face later. Read more>>
Liz Seligman
Integrity is most important to me because it guides every action and decision. Energy and intelligence are valuable, but without integrity they can be misused. With integrity, I know I am staying true to my values and earning the trust of others. Read more>>
Alice Deluca
One of the most surprising lessons my clients have taught me is the true power of listening. Technical skills are important, but what truly creates transformation is taking the time to understand the person in front of you their fears, their desires, and the story behind their request. That’s where authentic beauty begins, and that’s what makes every result unique Read more>>
Ariana Franco
I love this question because I’ve recently changed my mind about two very important things in my life. First, I hadn’t maintained a personal art practice for many years. When I stopped creating retail displays, it felt like hitting the brakes, skidding out of control, and slamming into a brick wall. Returning to Miami, I found myself wrestling with questions: What would I make? Read more>>
