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.
Tim Carr
Always. I try to keep things optimistic anyway… but I get to work in a business where we get to work with people from all over the world, from all different cultures, together, to tell a story. How can you not be optimistic about that? Read More>>
Kim Giovacco
I definitely jumped out of bed with glee the first few years during the first few years of having my own business. I easily worked 70 hours per week, and would be at my laptop until I was bleary-eyed. Read More>>
Lauren Shippen
Yes! Some days are harder than others – some months, or even years, are harder than others – but I really do love what I do. I think the moments in which I really feel that tap dancing feeling is when I’m digging into a new idea and all the story possibilities are open to me. That development stage is always so fun. Read More>>
Emma Harding
I absolutely adore what I do every day. Each day is different as I work with unique and fun people throughout each day. Some projects I’ve been part of have really brought me so much joy. Being part of the team for Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock – Back to the Rock was so much fun. Read More>>
Lisa Scarbath
I have been tap-dancing for the past 6 year! I created my first mosaic in January 2018 and had that classic ‘aha!’ moment. I have been learning, practicing and challenging myself ever since. My work is the only area of my life where I tend to jump in with both feet before looking where I’m going. Read More>>
Melody Pope
Absolutely! It’s a very fun job but it is still a job, so not every day is perfect or even all that great, but I always bring an attitude of excitement and joy when I get to be on a set, because your attitude is contagious. Read More>>
Debra Mosley-McCray
If I had waited on human praise, I would’ve never accomplished what I have today. The applause of people is fleeting, and I refuse to give anyone that much control over my journey. My approval comes from God alone. His green light outshines any affirmation I could ever receive. The peace He provides sustains me, even in the face of rejection. Read More>>
Dr. Juliet Dang
I do it all the time. I don’t reach for the stars because I think someone will tell me I did an awesome job. I do it because I have a vision and a goal. When I strive for excellence it is due to an innate energy from within. Read More>>
Nico Cobo
At the end of the day, that’s really what I do. I record guitar, bass, tres cubano, and other instruments for many artists—and honestly, most people never know who played what. And I’m okay with that. What matters to me is giving my best to every project. What I love most is the constant creative challenge—it keeps my mind alive.. Read More>>
Karen Landon
Because my metal smithing is my passion it is also my life. I have to do it like it’s an addiction. Whether my designs are praised or not I will always have to design and execute my pieces. Read More>>
Marie Torossian
Yes, absolutely. Even if no one ever praised me, I would still give everything my best. I believe that true excellence isn’t about recognition from others—it’s about honoring God, our Creator, in all that we do. Even when no one else is watching, I know He is. That perspective keeps my eyes focused on storing up heavenly treasures, not worldly ones. Read More>>
Richard Maneen
A common misconception about my business is how much time and planning goes into each shoot. People often think motorsports content is just about capturing fast action, but I spend a lot of time on things like planning shots and handling logistics. Read More>>
Miguel Fajardo
That’s the whole point — to give your best, even when no one notices or praises you for it. A career is a living, organic process that flows through highs and lows. Personally, I’ve lived through very difficult moments in my career, and it’s precisely in those moments where you prove your essence and learn the most. Read More>>
Matthew Parisi
I think that’s the entire job of the music producer. I’ve read interviews with artists I’ve worked with where they’re getting the praise for musical arrangements, the sound design and even sometimes the record itself. Some artists are gracious enough to throw some praise my way, but I know the deal. Read More>>
Donovan Granberry
Even if no one praised it the way it deserved, I’d still give it my best. At the end of the day, it’s about loving what you do. If you truly enjoy the process, the recognition doesn’t define the value it’s the passion that keeps you going. Read More>>
Jim Lewis
I have always tried to do my best even if no one was watching. I heard that quote from someone later in life (not sure who said it) but it is a big part of your character. I have tried to hire people that have that ability and I am proud of how I see our staff live that every day. Read More>>
Beorht Lewinski
Yeah, I could. I’ve been in situations where nobody clapped for me, nobody told me ‘good job,’ and I still gave my all. I don’t move for praise, I move because I know what I’m capable of and I refuse to half-step. Praise is nice, but it’s temporary. The work, the grind, the growth — that’s permanent. Read More>>
Kristina Latour
Indeed, I could. Being a bit of a perfectionist, I can’t really imagine doing anything halfway, especially when it’s something I’m passionate about. For me, it’s not so much about seeking praise or recognition from others—it’s more about the personal satisfaction that comes from knowing I gave it my absolute best. Read More>>
Shelli Netko
This is an easy “yes” for me. Honestly, just reading the question made me smile. Even as a kid, I did things simply because I loved doing them and I wanted to do them well—whether it was rubbing my dad’s shoulders or knitting little outfits for my bunny rabbits. As an adult, that never changed. Read More>>
Rachael Green
It’s about integrity, faith, and believing that what I do matters, even if no one sees it. Read More>>
Christine Williams
Yes! I would be lying if I said I don’t like praise but I absolutely don’t need it. I’m self-driven but have just never sought out validation which is a good trait (I think). Read More>>
Spud Brooklyn
Absolutely. Most of my greatest dedication happened in the dark—when no one was watching, no one was clapping, and the world had already counted me out. Even in the free world, I’ve worked tirelessly behind the scenes, putting in hours no one saw, with no guarantee of praise or recognition. Read More>>
Ivy Patterson
I give everything my best on a daily basis. Whether it be at home, at work, in school, or with my business. I am always putting my best foot forward. Honestly, when and if I do receive accolades, I am usually surprised. I do not do what I do in order to be praised. I simply enjoy doing good work, and helping others. Read More>>
Nadja Sayej
I have not received much praise for anything that I do! Journalism is such a thankless job. I remember the great Canadian art critic, video artist and author, RM Vaughan, once said to me that if you’re not writing about other people, they dissapear. He invited tons of people to his book launch, I recall, and that showed the truth.
Delton Henderson
I remember one afternoon when I was about 15, sitting at the kitchen table with my grandmother. She was a woman I admired deeply—graceful, grounded, and wise in a way that felt almost untouchable. We were talking about something small at first—probably a piece of technology she didn’t understand—but the conversation shifted. Read More>>
díor gambino
No, yo no lie, *laughs. I could for real tell them how it , truly is , they look at me on some wild crazy stuff. *laughs, i learned a lot. Something’s are better left unsaid. Read More>>
Vicki Wilson
As I tell the story of this wonderful artist, Vicki Wilson, I must tell you what a sweet, kind and inspirational artist she is. A few years ago Vicki was on hard times and I bring a curator at Mills Gallery,Orlando and my colleagues decided to help this artist out. Read More>>
DeAna Fai
Absolutely! When it comes to the music and film industry that I’m in, I’m glad that I’ve taken my time before working with some industry professionals and before signing some contracts. It gave me the time to consider different desires in the stages of my career as some of my short-term goals did change as I made strides in this business. Read More>>
Mūs
There has been plenty of times where I was glad I took the long route. With music and life’s dilemmas, I definitely feel like the long way has taught me a lot of things. Musically, taking the long way around, gave me time to be around people and learn more. Read More>>
Marcee Musgrove
This represents the fiber pieces I am currently concentrating on, in the beginning I cut and made designs that I really liked out then proceeded to mount them on the wood only to find out it was off. Read More>>
Murray Bolesta
Absolutely. I’m proud I didn’t act fast, because patience allows depth and perspective to emerge—both in life and in my art. Rushing often sacrifices quality, while waiting creates understanding. Patience lets me see meaning that otherwise I’d miss.. It’s a virtue that spawns creativity from observation. Read More>>
Jia Cheng Hu
Absolutely—recently, actually. We live in a world that moves fast. Everything’s changing: trends, opportunities, even how people think. And I have no doubt on that mindset—go faster, work harder, keep up or fall behind. Read More>>
Katrina Blunt
There was definitely a time when I was glad I didn’t act fast. Years ago, I was watching a episode of ‘Behind The Music’, where they would tell the story of different artists’ journey. Im always watching ‘Unsung’ or a documentary of about different artists. This particular episode was on singer-songwriter NeYo. Read More>>
Larissa Paes Thackeray
I think that’s very common with high performers, to take for granted all that we have already achieved, because we have our eyes on the next step. A few years back I found a list that I made about 10 years ago of things that I wanted to conquer, including being a full time athlete, training abroad, and a few other things. Read More>>
Bob Doucette
I find that we live in a culture addicted to endorphins. I usually find great peace, joy and serenity when I create my art, but for some reason I need to get others to like it to validate myself. I need to get likes and comments on social media and I definitely need to sell all my work or I am a complete failure. Read More>>
Alanna Knobben
I think this is part of the human condition, most of us are always setting targets, consciously or subconsciously, and then moving the goalposts when we get there. I’m no different. Read More>>
Desirée Pfeiffer
I’ve thought about this throughout the years, not in terms of there being “one” specific thing, but more in terms of recognizing that no matter what I’ve accomplished, the satisfaction of obtaining the thing is fleeting. Early on in my art practice, I was convinced that certain accomplishments, whether it be commissions, jobs, or awards, would make me feel lasting confidence, satisfaction, and happiness. Read More>>
Laticia Brice
Yesssss! After spending seven years as a legal secretary, I made a major pivot in my career. I quit my job, went to technical college, and started working in the tech industry. For about 15 years, I climbed the proverbial ladder of success—only to realize that it’s not enough to climb the ladder; you have to make sure it’s leaning against the right building. Read More>>
Tarik khribech
Yes. When I started AllBetter, I stood up for the mom-and-pop contractors who were getting crushed by big platforms charging them for leads they couldn’t afford. It cost me time, money, and sleepless nights, but I knew someone had to fight for fairness. These contractors are the backbone of our communities, and I wanted to give them a tool that levels the playing field. Read More>>
Nicki Tedesco
Yes, actually! Myself. Boundaries. Since I live such a public life in regards to my music, I am very private with my daily life. When I have met people that could possibly be helpful to my career, but they cross a line, I have to lay down boundaries. This self selects people. Some people don’t like that, and there is the possibility of ‘losing’ them. Read More>>
Anthony Bolognese
Lavish KC Chaney
For me, fads come and go fast. They’re surface-level trends that everyone jumps on, but they don’t have lasting impact. Foundational shifts, on the other hand, change the way people think, live, or express themselves. I differentiate by looking at whether an idea still holds value when the hype fades. Read More>>
Jill Cherry
For me, the difference between a fad and a foundational shift is fads are fast, foundational shifts are slow, but sure. Fads are loud. They usually come with hype, buzzwords, and a feeling of urgency—like if you don’t jump on it now, you’ll miss out. But foundational shifts? They’re quieter. Read More>>
Sarah Lynn Dawson
When it’s challenging. I think growth can be like this and it’s important, so some periods of it are OK. Then you need that magical flow state. I read something about this recently, I can’t remember who said it. They said you need to stay right on that edge and that’s probably true. Read More>>
Jack Byron
I don’t know I’m out of my depth until I’m drowning. Then I have no choice but to learn how to swim. Read More>>
Claire Duarte
I know I’m out of my depth when I start to feel like everything is piling up and I can’t catch my breath. It’s not always dramatic or obvious at first. Sometimes it sneaks in slowly. I’ll start missing emails. My to-do list grows faster than I can check things off. Content deadlines feel heavier. My brain starts to feel cluttered. Read More>>
Alonzo Perrin
I would build a school in East St Louis. I have some great friends who are educators that would be over the daily operations. It would focus on things that I didn’t have when I was in school. When I was a kid, we prayed before class started. I would bring prayer back. Read More>>
Bicem Sinik
That would be amazing. Many people despise the idea that if you are the only one who lives, your entire family and friends will die. I don’t think I’m the type of person who becomes overly attached to anything or anyone. That’s why I had to move to New York on my own. If I had immortality. Read More>>
Kordell Rashad
This question is so cool! If I can take you out of space with my answer I’d say if I had immortality I’d probably build a time traveling machine just to go and visit the people I’ve loved throughout life. I’d probably go back in time just to see who I used to be and to different time periods just to see how others lived. Read More>>
Avgoustina Papadopoulou
I think people struggle with loneliness more than they admit. We live in a time where we’re constantly connected online, scrolling, liking, sharing, but that doesn’t always translate into real human connection. Offline, many people feel unseen or disconnected, even when surrounded by others. Read More>>
Tyler Tittle
I think a lot of people are secretly struggling with the pressure to be seen while not really knowing how to give voice to themselves. We live in a world overflowing with content, but not enough spaces where vulnerability feels safe. Read More>>
Dwight Thomas
People are secretly struggling with their identity. We live in a trend driven society. Style, Culture, Beliefs and even what we think as individuals are being shaped by the ideas of what we think we should believe. The one thing God has given us is our individual differences that separates us, but instead we would rather be like someone else. Read More>>
Liza Janel Caballero
Carrying the weight of being strong all the time. People act like they’ve got it together, but inside they’re exhausted from holding everything up for themselves or their family. Read More>>
Tiffany Hopkins
I feel like so many of us are struggling with loneliness, but we really can’t talk about it. It would be offensive to the person we’re talking to! But just because we have people in our lives, even people we enjoy, care about, or even love, doesn’t mean that there isn’t still a part of us that is missing connection. Read More>>
Alysia Gruenstern
I think so many people are quietly wrestling with the idea that happiness is something they’ll find outside themselves—through achievements, external validation, or the next big milestone. Read More>>
Pasquale Panico
The concepts of life and time. I think we all try to find a good balance and at times act like we have it all figured out. But, in all reality what does ‘having it all figured out look like’ and are we making the best of our time and life with the gifts we are wired with. Read More>>
Alex Rogers
I believe many people are quietly struggling with their mental health. Almost everyone carries personal challenges—whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or unresolved trauma—but most of these issues never get spoken about openly. There’s often a stigma or fear of judgment that keeps people silent, so they put on a strong front while battling difficult emotions beneath the surface. Read More>>
Neetu Rishi
I believe many people are silently struggling with self-doubt and the fear of not being enough. In a world that constantly measures success by external achievements, social media highlights, or comparison with others, it’s easy to feel like we’re falling short even when on the outside it looks like we’re thriving. Read More>>
Vanessa Smithers
i think a lot of people want love, but struggle with accepting and nurturing it when it finally arrives. we’re conditioned to chase it, to long for it, to imagine it, but not always to hold it. so when love shows up soft, steady, and consistent, it almost feels foreign. Read More>>
Angela Hollowell-Pearl
I believe many people are secretly struggling with feeling like they’re too much and not enough at the same time. They show up in rooms where their brilliance is needed—but worry it’s too bold. They mute their instincts, stretch themselves thin, and perform in ways that win approval but cost them peace. Read More>>
Manuel Velásquez
Others plus me included, we are always comparing ourselves with others. We often feel small when we see others triumphant in social media. This is very silly, we compare our process and compete with other people who are also feeling static or lost artistically. We should focus in our own goals and avoid this effect of excess of information. Read More>>
Fernando Wicker
Most men are secretly struggling with themselves. Not money. Not women. Themselves. They lie awake knowing they’re wasting time. They know they should be further, stronger, sharper but instead they numb it with distractions: porn, alcohol, fake confidence. They’ll never say it out loud, because admitting weakness feels like death to them. But the truth? Every man feels it. Read More>>
tracy robert
People hide from their most vulnerable, authentic selves. 3 reasons for this…. 1. Fear: If I show who I really am, people may reject me. People want to belong, I want to feel a sense of acceptance and those that say ‘they don’t care’ are hiding so much from this truth. Read More>>
Marie Carter
I think a lot of us are secretly struggling with identity, but the way our society is set up it is definitely not comfortable to admit that. People have gotten so used to adapting to the norm and following trends that they believe it’s their identity. Some people adopt identities that have been shown to be accepted so they have less chance of being rejected. Read More>>
Johnny Felix
Fear in life. We struggle different types of fear in life but the most important process is taking the risk & learning the success & failures in life. I always have quote that I say “Impossible Is Possible” in life. You have to believe in you to create the journey & goals in life. Our secret of fear is worrying about someone judging you. Read More>>
Carrie Davenport
I think people secretly struggle with a whole lot of guilt. Especially women in the workplace. Guilt that we cannot be 100% to our employers, partners, children and ourselves. Guilt that sometimes we aren’t the best friend, child, parent, spouse etc because we are so torn in a million directions and society wants us to be just about perfect at everything we do. Read More>>
Jai Holla
Performing their way through a life that doesn’t feel real anymore. I think a lot of people are tired. Tired of over-delivering, chasing validation, and trying to look like they’ve got it all together while quietly questioning where any of it even fits. But they won’t say it out loud, because the image they’re trying to build looks successful by someone else’s standards. Read More>>
Ricardo Trillos
I think many people need help in life and business. This can be in different areas like love, relationships or clarity, sales boosting or guidance. I have seen people struggle and live with those struggles trying to deal with them instead of looking for help and advice. Pride or fear of judgement are a big deal in today’s society. Read More>>
brittany lowry
That im comfortable in front of people. I come off as easy to talk to and good at conversation online. But in reality, im very shy and have crippling stage fright. I choke up, I want to vomit, I feel faint. Read More>>
Agatha Wright
I think the greatest misunderstanding about my legacy may come from the juxtaposition between my personal identity and my artistic practice. Ladyflux is a character I created as both a shield and a vessel—an armory I could step into when my work confronted controversy and collective discourse. Read More>>
Danielle A. Scruggs
Honestly, that’s none of my business. I know what my intentions are with all the work that I do as a photographer, photo editor, writer, curator, and also just as a human being trying to move through the world with integrity and intention. Read More>>
Brigge D’rappah
That my music is meant to build bridges. I love and respect Black American hip hop from a child. That’s why I signed with Madd Pop Records based out of the USA to produce and distribute my next upcoming projects. So people may not understand the pairing, but I really believe our collab with create a legacy that my family can be proud of. Read More>>
Roy Ju
I would expect most of the world to know me by my credentials, career titles, or observable business involvements. Those details represent the most visible facets of my life and largely reflect many years of career and academic discipline. The “what” and “how” may make sense as you track the sequence, but the “why” is not commonly understood. Read More>>
Sean McElwee
I said I was a ladies man on Born this Way but what I meant is I like girls. Some guys like guys but I like girls. But people thought I meant I was a player and that isn’t true at all. I always have one girlfriend at a time. Read More>>
Lacroy Nixon
Despite my accomplishments and drive to do well for my community, I am really just a regular person. One thing I find myself saying is that “I don’t have super powers. I just work hard.” And most of all, the reason I work, so hard is because I believe that there’s gonna come a day when I can’t be the face of the movement. Read More>>
Paul Normansell
The time it takes to create my paintings. I’ve done it now for 25years and it has taken its toll on my body. The position I’m in to create the paintings causes lots of pain to my neck and back, but as they say you have to suffer for your art. Read More>>
Mo Barrett
I think a lot of people think I’m just a clown … I am, but I’m not only a clown. I work really hard and I don’t know that most people realize that. Read More>>
Benjamin Caleb cgp
That’s a deep and reflective question to me, i will try to answer with my whole heart. I think, what people most misunderstand about a person’s legacy is the intent behind their work. Legacies tend to get reduced to successes, titles, influence and awards. While the inner drive, the struggles, determination and the sacrifices that shaped them, fade into the background. Read More>>
Steven Puri
They will think that the movies I worked on defined me. I was more interested in the process of working with great creative minds. Read More>>
Samantha ‘BossLady’ Davis-Croft
I am very determined about my legacy being that its a continuation of my father’s legacy along with building my own legacy and empire. I am very loyal and dedicated to my craft and I believe in it. Read More>>
Riley Woodell
A lot of people look at models and think of them as being expendable “oh she’s just a model” but we’re each so much more than that. Models are artists, creative directors, photographers, producers, spouses, athletes, designers – lots of layers to “a model”. We don’t wear one label. I think that’s something that’s often misunderstood about the profession as a whole. Read More>>
TtheCartel
Nothing we do is for fame or publicity. We’re just being righteous, we focused on unity right now. Read More>>
Christina Corbitt
That I was in it for myself. From the outside, it’s easy to assume that building a business like mine is about personal gain or chasing the spotlight—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The greatest reward for me has always been watching others succeed. Read More>>
Dr. Elayne Brunson
As a land developer people have said they admire what I am doing just not how I am doing things. As the granddaughter of a change maker and civil rights activist, Carl Holmes Sr., I grew up watching my grandfather fight for the basic quality of life rights for lower income communities of Sumter SC and surrounding areas. Read More>>
Wendi Schweigart
I’m carrying the label of “the good girl.” It’s a label I chose early on and I learned to wear well—quiet, agreeable, self-sacrificing, always keeping the peace. I’m 48 now, and I’m ready to let it go. I don’t want to be “the good girl” anymore. I want to speak my mind without over-explaining. I want to say no without guilt. Read More>>
Jan Canty
The public tends to believe that a court conviction, the passing of time and kind words by friends will restore the wounds of people who have had to deal with the aftermath of homicide. And they believe we get a lot of support. Both are false. We withdraw from society and society withdraws from us. Read More>>
Mike Goldstein
There’s more to life than money as we can’t get time back. Yes, money is important to survive but have some fun along the way to live too. Read More>>
Donecia Wilson
The truth I hold that very few people agree with is that pain and beauty are not opposites, they’re partners. We’re taught to run from pain and only chase the pretty parts of life, but I’ve learned that the most authentic beauty is born right in the middle of struggle. My hardest seasons gave me the kind of glow no filter can create. Read More>>
Alicia Hayes
The truth I hold onto is one that many don’t agree with, is that faith and logic are not enemies. In fact, they are inseparable. Real logic doesn’t disprove God, it points directly to Him. Over the years I’ve studied science, philosophy, and Scripture. Read More>>
Evie Kevish
Many people fear juicing because they immediately think about the sugars in juice. What they don’t realize is that these are natural sugars- not the processed, chemical-laden sugars with added dyes and artificial ingredients that cause harm. Read More>>
Lynn mull
I have a theory about why women shift their careers in their 40s and it has everything to do with science. I’m pretty sure I tried to quit my job everyday starting in 2020. Read More>>
Mrs. Deeiah Hayes
An important truth that very few people seem to fully embrace is that unity is not only necessary, but possible—and we are about to start seeing it more, even across cultural lines. Too often, people assume differences, past hurts, or disagreements make true alignment impossible. Read More>>
Lauren Paez
An essential truth that may not resonate with everyone is the importance of energetic accountability, responsibility, and mental health for healers. Mental health is vital in this journey. If you’re not committed to personal growth, how can you extend your hand to uplift others? Being a reiki master and energy healer carries immense energetic responsibility and accountability. Read More>>
Abby Phon
I hold it as a truth that we all have the power to heal ourselves, but that seems to put me in the minority. Most people I know really don’t know anything about how to heal themselves naturally. I hear about people from other countries who live a more natural life and are in sync with nature. Read More>>
Sam Varela
It still surprises me that community is not as important to all people since we all rely on many communities every day. A core truth for me is that community is lifesaving, and that community only exists if everyone participates in the upkeep. Read More>>
Tonya Merta
A core belief of mine is that following our greatest passion, the thing that lights us up most, is all we really need to do. That the rest will come naturally. Of course this passion needs to come from the right place, and ultimately be positive for ourselves and society too. Read More>>
Aleah Harris Hosea
John 14:6 — Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Read More>>
Lysa Middleton
Accountability Society has made accountability optional. It’s very important to be accountable for your future. If you allow others to dictate our shape your plans, you’re allowing them to write your paycheck. Own your actions. If you don’t like them, change them. Nobody has control over your future but you. Read More>>
Nyiko Rikhotso
Morning Early Check-In: Review overnight sales reports, ad performance, and e-commerce dashboards (traffic, conversion rate, ROAS). Quick Calls/Emails: Touch base with your marketing lead or agency on running campaigns (Google Shopping, Performance Max, Meta Ads). Team Sync: A short virtual stand-up with key staff (ops, marketing, customer service) to align on priorities for the day. Read More>>
