We asked some of the most inspiring local entrepreneurs and creatives what was bringing them joy and we hope the responses below inspire you to find more joy in your day-to-day life as well.
Stephanie Nembhard

We have recently welcomed another baby into our family! Lately, I have enjoyed watching my children interact with our newest addition. It brings me joy to see the love they have for their baby brother, and the special connection that the siblings share. I am excited to witness their interactions and look forward to the memories they will create together. Read more>>
Gabe Motta

Outside of work, and in some way related to it, I’ve always found immense joy in traveling the world. Immersing myself in new cultures, lifestyles, cuisines, architecture, art, relationships, and ways of living truly invigorates me. Additionally, I relish the opportunity to work while traveling, which allows me to spread my presence and experiences across various places. Read more>>
Isai Rodriguez

“I love the walks with my kids. We take a 30-minute to one-hour walk from home to the park and back. It gives us a chance to talk about the things we like and don’t like, and it’s a simple way to bond. Sometimes we don’t even need to talk — we just enjoy being together.” Read more>>
Ahmad Fielder

Multiple things bring me joy outside of work lately. One of them is creating abstract artwork that complements the music I make and tells a meaningful, unique story. I also recently love exploring different sounds and plug-ins I’ve never used before. I’m always looking for ways to develop/research new and refreshing textures for my songs that bring them more depth and dimension. Read more>>
Sarah Marie Spectrum

Something outside of work that’s been bringing me a lot of joy lately is… coloring books. I’m rediscovering what used to bring me so much joy as a child. There’s something so grounding and soothing about sitting down with a blank page (or one filled with line art) and a handful of colors. It’s creative without pressure: no deadlines, no expectations, no clients. Read more>>
Rebecca Cullen

Outside of work, my greatest joy comes from spending time with my grandchildren. They ground me, remind me why connection matters, and bring an energy and perspective that I truly cherish. Whether we’re reading together, exploring, or just laughing, those moments refill my tank. Read more>>
Cheryl R. Dunbar
Yes! I had a recent moment that made me both laugh and feel proud, simultaneously. My cousin Barbara and I were meeting for dinner. When she walked to the booth where I was sitting, she said I already knew you were in here because I passed two ladies talking about you. Barbara said one lady said to the other; “did you know who that was”? Read More>>
Jo Loveday
I’m proud to say that my newest novel, Campus of Shadows, has received an American Best Book Award designation in the cross-genre fiction category. The story encompasses the genres of psychological thriller and supernatural thriller. It’s also a coming-of-age novel, dark academia, paranormal suspense, and psychological horror, with a bit of romance intertwined. Read More>>
