We think this is an essential question because so often there is a disconnect between what matters to us and what the world thinks. We hope these conversations help more people open up about what truly matters to them – regardless of how visible it might be on the outside.
Hunter Haskell
Behind the scenes, I am building a changed but new person ; full of more humility and bravery. I am creating more confidence in myself and less doubt. I believe I am learning new skills and tactics to replace with negative doing. A couple fundamental things in my life I have been working on … Read More>>
David Fiuczynski
I think what I’m most proud of right now is watching former students come into their own. It’s been great watching former Planet MicroJam Institute alumni (@Berklee College of Music), who have taken my microtonal classes, start to develop their own sound and I’ve been privileged to collaborate with them. Read More>>
Diego Garcia
I feel proud of building the discipline and understanding needed to fully access my artistic intuition. When working as a freelance or independent creative the power of “no” is crucial. The crux is that to make a dent in the whole game, at first you may have to rock gigs or commissions that may not be the bag you want. Read More>>
vanessa whitby
Thanks so much for having me! I am excited to chat more about our upcoming book, Mermaid Disco!! I am most proud of is all the work that happens quietly behind the scenes and the magic of watching an idea turn into something real. From the first spark of inspiration to the final product, I pour myself into every step. Read More>>
Ayanna Dutton-Diaz
What I’m most proud of building that no one sees is my commitment to self-auditing. I’ve spent years doing the inner work: learning to listen to my intuition, lean into discomfort, heal through triggers, and grow into the best version of myself. That quiet work is where the real transformation happens. Read More>>
ERTUGRUL ERTUC
What I’m most proud of building — that nobody sees — is Resilience. More Resilience. Life throws curveballs. Moments that test your patience, shake your confidence, and make you question if you can keep going. I’ve faced setbacks, interruptions, and challenges that felt impossible — and each one forced me to grow stronger, sharper, and more determined. Read More>>
Brittney Autry
I am most proud of cultivating community! Any time I have a crazy idea or decide that I want to do something simple or bold, I have so many people who show up to support! People randomly come up to me and say they are watching my journey and they are proud! It melts my heart! Read More>>
Sydney Poll
It’s taken 35 years to become the person I am today, and the journey has been anything but easy. There have been plenty of bumps in the road, personal challenges, career pivots, and moments of doubt, but each step has shaped me. I built a business that many said wouldn’t be sustainable. I built a family during a pandemic. Read More>>
Darian Stewart ( BCIMANARTIST)
What I’m most proud of building,something most people don’t see, is the emotional and spiritual foundation behind my art practice. My work is about more than the final image or installation; it’s about creating spaces for people to feel, to see themselves, and to question the narratives that shape how we move through the world. Read More>>
ELYSSA ALFIERI
I’m most proud of the community that’s grown around LDR. The part that most people don’t see. It’s a diverse mix of shoppers and sellers who care deeply about sustainability, creativity, and supporting each other. They’re not just customers; they show up for our causes, share our values, and help create a space that feels inclusive and meaningful. Read More>>
Gabi Coatsworth
I’d have to say that I’m proud of building a writing community here in Connecticut. Writing is a lonely business, and giving people the chance to hang out with other writers seems to have been successful. We gather once a month to talk about writing, set a few goals, and get or give information about where to submit, writing contests, author events, and more. Read More>>
Natalia Malova

For the last two years, along with my two co-founders, I’ve developed SWANS, a hand-selected booking site that connects clients worldwide with the best hairstylists and makeup artists globally. It was born due to personal experience: for years, my clients have been requesting me to introduce them to the best professionals for the red carpets, Fashion Weeks, weddings, and award ceremonies. Read More>>
