The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.
Alla Ryan
No, the road definitely hasn’t been smooth. One of the biggest obstacles for me was the language barrier. Coming from Ukraine, English was completely new to me, and learning how to communicate — especially while building a new life — was incredibly challenging. On top of that, I had to adjust to a completely new culture. I quickly realized that people live, think, and communicate in very different ways here. It took time to expand my perspective and truly adapt. Read more>>
Evan Maines
I am of the usual origin of many famed and upcoming directors: I grew up with a camera in my hand, and spent a lot of time in writing stories in a notebook. My fascination with films weren’t just with the on-screen aesthetics of visuals, character, plot-development, and story… but the act of waking up one day and saying “I want to capture that and give that to people.” I once heard the idea that for a long time, movies were kind of the closest thing we had to “mind-control” — back when theaters were a popular place to go, and sit in a collective of other stranger-audience members, in a dark room, and take the ride. To allow your attention into the gentle grasp of a filmmaker, and to be shown with great intention the aspects of a world someone chooses for you. Read more>>
Londyn Marie
As a little girl I Always loved making up songs and grabbing a couple friends to help me sing them and bring them to life. I played the piano so often and made up songs that my grandes the gifted me his and I still have it til This day. I have journals full of poetry and song ideas, enamores since childhood of expression through music. As I grew older that love for music never died and I am still creating and expressing through song today. Read more>>
Will Pohlman
That was what started the fire in me, if I wasn’t going to go the school route, I would have to discipline myself and work harder than ever. Starting a business and becoming my own boss came with a different set of challenges, but I wanted to prove to myself that I was capable. From 2019 – 2021, I went from a college drop out working at Starbucks to becoming a full time Automotive Photographer. Since I’ve gone full time in 2021, I have worked incredibly hard to dial in my photography and business skills as well as expand my network and clientele. Read more>>
Julie Reminick
I began hosting sip-and-paint events, where I saw firsthand how art could bring people together, even those who had never picked up a paintbrush before. Seeing people overcome their fear of making mistakes and embrace the joy of creating inspired me. I expanded into public art, murals, and youth instruction, focusing on making art accessible to all—especially families, children, and individuals dealing with hardship. Read more>>
Sharron Matthews
The idea for my business emerged from the need for a space where people could connect with themselves, take a pause, and embrace the simple joys of self-care. I wanted to create a sanctuary of scents and skincare that could offer others the same tranquility I found in those sacred moments. Each product we offer is more than just a physical item; it’s a whisper of comfort, hope, and joy. It’s an invitation to slow down, nurture the soul, and reconnect in a fast-paced world that often leaves little room for stillness. Read more>>
Shatima Pearson
I am a brand ambassador. I am a YouTube blogger. I am a designerfor interior and graphics a model. I host parties. I am a brand ambassador and all around social media influencer. I have a lot of hobbies I love volleyball, basketball track, painting, journaling, yoga, exercise, karaoke, coloring, walking being a motivational speaker like the job goes on and on and on it never stops with me ask me I did it. I’m starting I’m also starting to do nails so if you have anybody out there that wants acrylic nails or press on holler at your girl cause that is my new side business. My drive ambition and resilience is what sets me apart. I never stopped when one Avenue in door closes. I go. I’m knocked down and I open up another one. Read more>>
Mya Dozier
Overall, my journey in the makeup industry has been smooth, but there have definitely been some bumps along the way—especially when it comes to building clientele. At times, I’ve had to remind myself that while in-person marketing is valuable, we live in a very social media-driven world. Consistency online plays a huge role in attracting clients, and that’s something I’ve been working on improving. Over time, I’ve become more intentional about posting regularly and showcasing my work, which has helped me grow. I’m also constantly learning new skills and perfecting different looks to elevate my artistry even further. Read more>>
Antoinette M. Richardson
That passion eventually led me to join Team LO-KEY Entertainment, where I had the opportunity to further explore the world of events and community-based experiences. One of the most meaningful milestones in my journey has been co-creating and leading The SHADES Bridal Experience—a minority wedding and event expo that has grown into a powerful, inspiring platform. Now entering its fourth year, SHADES has become a signature event that brings excellence, culture, and community together in one space. Read more>>
Caitlin Massey
Fast forward to now—over two years later—I’m still with the company as the Marketing & Brand Manager. In this role, I oversee the marketing strategy and social media accounts for Via Vite, Nicola’s, and Forno Osteria & Bar. Along the way, I’ve taught myself everything from social media management to ad campaigns, email marketing, and website design. I also took it a step further and taught myself food photography, which led me to create my own Instagram page, Glimpse (@glimpse_cincyky), where I share my photography work and creative projects. Read more>>
Tony Ferrari
never smooth i don’t think that is ever a thing in restaurant business unfortunately! Rise of costs never seem to end, staffing harder and more expensive. With social media, review platforms and everyone thinking they know what their talking about can really make a break a restaurant so that’s another level of thins to consider today. Coving of course took us back a couple years and tons of money but we rebuilt, trying to balance work, life, and being a dad has and will always be a struggle cause you want to do it all but just mentally and physically can’t and shouldn’t in fact. Change is good, evolving in good, but its a hard routine to keep ups with year after year! Read more>>
Diane Thompson
My name is Diane Thompson, visionary CEO of Take Your Rightful Place Enterprise. Born and raise from Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from Garfield Heights High School. I’m grateful for my supportive family, including my two sisters and parents, Derek and Nella Thompson, who instilled in me the value of hard work and determination. My academic journey took me to Toledo University, Bryant and Stratton College Cleveland, and Cuyahoga Valley Career Center, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration and a License Practical Nurse degree, empowering me to make a meaningful impact in my community. Read more>>
Jennifer Lutes
4 Paws for Ability specializes in uniquely training each service dog to meet the needs of their partner with disability. Dogs have amazing noses, and we were able to focus that skill on important tasks such as alerting to seizures or other scent based medical events, as well as finding people who were lost. 4 Paws does not have a minimum age requirement, so children in need come from all over the country to receive a 4 Paws service dog. I am proud that 4 Paws is able to fit this niche, and know that there are children who are alive today because they have a 4 Paws dog by their side. Read more>>
Sahithya Wintrich
When I think of my childhood in Bengaluru, India, my most vivid memories are of food. I fondly remember buying spices from burlap sacks at corner shops, choosing the perfect mango at open-air markets and savoring freshly fried fritters and chai while huddled against the monsoon rains. I also reminisce of a homemade seasoning powder called chutney podi (powder) that my family put on everything. Whether sprinkled on rice for a quick flavor hit or mixed with oil to make an easy dip, chutney podi was the secret ingredient of my childhood. The meals changed but my need to add bursts of Indian flavor to my food did not. Read more>>
Candice Flows Igeleke
To briefly walk you through—where do I begin? I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to my mother, Maria Williams-Bethea, and my father, Russell Bethea. I am one of 7 siblings, 8 counting my God-sister and best friend Sha’Tequa (hey girl!). I started dancing when I was young, maybe about four or five years old. My auntie St. Faith introduced me to company dance. And if you let my family tell it, every dance battle at our family birthday parties was rigged because my mother was a judge. But I won all of them. All I had to do was throw my heel-toe in there or hit the split, and it was mine. I probably didn’t win all of them, because my family can boogie! But I come from an artistic, funny, family-oriented, tight-knit family. So all the encouragement and the “Oh, she thinks she can dance” really paid off. Read more>>
Christopher Harvan
Markers and a stack of 8 1/2” x 11” paper on a rainy day in a detached garage in the late 1970s Garfield Heights, Ohio, is where I discovered where I was headed. Later, it was colored pencils and the dream of becoming an illustrator that got me to art school. Art school blew open the door to design, craft, woodworking, sculpture, papermaking, and metalsmithing. The exposure to traditional and non-traditional art history created a context for trying to find meaning and a place for my talents and efforts in society. Read more>>
Aidan Hickey
I started mowing lawns when I was 13. I never really had a real job in the summers, I basically would just find ways to make money by landscaping, cutting grass, and any kind of manual labor. I went to college at Franciscan University in Steubenville, OH. I had a phenomenal time there and took part in the semester abroad program where I spent four months in Austria, travelling every weekend to different countries. I also went on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic to spread the joy of Christ to the children there. Both of these experiences were truly life changing and helped to form the man I am today. Read more>>
Brandee Wilkinson
Definitely not a smooth road, but a rewarding one. Some struggles we faced are being a little fish in a big pond, having to earn a name for yourself, financial struggles, navigating funerals during COVID, just to name a few. Read more>>
Jon Sherman
I moved from New York City fourteen years ago to take a teaching job at Kenyon College in Gambier. I was an independent filmmaker in NYC but now I’m a professor, filmmaker, and mentor to a bunch of young filmmakers in Columbus. I worked with Molly Kreuzman of Ohio Goes to the Movies to create a monthly filmmaker meet up group that now has over 250 members. In 2020, I made an independent film in Columbus called “They/Them/Us”. It stars Joey Slotnick and Amy Hargreaves and so best comedy at the San Diego Film Festival. It’s available to watch for free on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and Roku. I have two new scripts I’m working on that I hope to shoot soon. Read more>>
Latondra Newton
I ultimately selected jewelry making as a new hobby because the classes worked with my rigorous travel schedule. My teachers and mentors encouraged me to take it seriously, so I launched my jewelry brand, STŌN (pronounced stone). Jewelry then expanded to home objects, furniture and lighting design and interior design. Two years ago, I left my corporate role to pursue these media full time. I now divide my time between Santa Fe, NM and Cincinnati, the place where I fell in love with my husband AND the world of fine art. Read more>>
Yuri Spirit
nah, at first nobody saw the vision, especially being such a lil kid nobody thought i would pursue it the way i did, nobody took it serious at first so i took that as a motivation. it’s been a struggle to keep focused on the music with all the mental struggles i rap about, those ain’t fake. I always felt like an outcast growing up and i use this music as a way to get other people to understand my contrast too. Read more>>
Davon Hawthorne
He started to show me the business aspect of barbering. He would show me things like the importance of be on time for each appointment, how to get people to value your time, how to manage other independent contractors within the business, and how to look for quality’s within the people that are going to be working in my barbershop. I worked at Corn Cutz for a year and a half and moved into my own loft which I would name Revolutionary Cutz. After being in my own salon loft for a year and a half, building my clientele, I was able to be put in a position to have my own five chair shop at 4602 vine street which I am thriving and sustaining. All this as possible through the goodness of God! Read more>>
Zach Starkie
Tooth Lures a Fang started playing together in 2014 as a three piece. The project began as a small collection of songs that Nic helped Zach record, but we wanted to play live so we found a drummer and started playing shows in Cincinnati. Since then we’ve put out three full length albums, played countless shows, and have toured regionally. Some highlights have been opening up for Rozwell Kid and Signals Midwest. We grew to include a second guitarist, Katy, in 2024 when we released our third full-length, Fake Control. Read more>>
Antara Datta
After moving to Ohio in 2012, the school was established first in Akron, OH followed by a center in Solon, OH. After a year of successful operation in Akron and Solon, OH, it expanded to Columbus, OH. In 2017 we opened center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania followed by a center in Westlake, OH in 2023. Simultaneously, the academy also thrived in Seattle, WA ever since its inception in 2010 with branches in Redmond, Issaquah and Bothell, WA. We are currently training over 250 dance students of various age groups and experience levels in the rich tradition of the Lucknow gharana (school) of Kathak. Read more>>
Jean And Jeff Kromer
So, in 2013, we decided to use our resources and skills to begin this little adventure, making home décor and wedding décor from Lake Erie driftwood. We are a husband-and-wife team. God has gifted both of us with skills that mesh to run our business. Jeff is the one to select and haul the loads of large driftwood pieces, and he is the creator of all the products involving the big tools! He is inventive and resourceful! He has so many great ideas. His craftsmanship and attention to detail is amazing. I love to collect the smaller driftwood pieces, design, create products that may incorporate paint or fabric, and assist Jeff in the workshop. Read more>>
Tannar And Skylar Hess
We close down the building June 6th Tannar Had to leave for annual training on June 8th (he is a Cpl. in the Marine corps Reserves) He returned on July 3rd and the remodle was underway. We completley remodled the entire kitchen and dinning area in roughly 30 days, while both of us continued our full-time jobs at Lowes and were able to have our soft opening on august 6th. The beginning was tough, for the first 4 weeks it was just the two of us and some occasional help from our wonderful mother. There were 20-hour days with very little sleep. Every waking moment was worth it. We now have 4 Great employees, work and worry more than we should but would not have it any other way. Read more>>
Beth And Bob Turner
We started with 25 kayaks the first year… had 50 on year two… 75 or year three and this year we have over 100 kayaks, a couple canoes, paddle boats and are looking at teaching small boat sailing as well this year! We have single kayaks both sit-in, sit-on-top, fishing, tandems and XL styles. We also have 15 Kokopelli single adventure rubber rafts for when the River is flowing fast. We currently have 3 – 15 passenger shuttle buses that transport people to and from launch and take out locations. Read more>>
Sheridan Seitz
I quickly learned how this overlaps perfectly with occupational therapy and the impact I could have in this role. I started taking a lot of educational courses in the infant space which led me to start my own private practice, Bloom Therapy Co. and I have been serving families in the Columbus area via both in-home and in clinic appointments for the past year and a half. Last week, I also finally recently sat for my International board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) exam after starting that process almost 2 years ago. Read more>>
Lisa Gambon
I was born and raised in Cleveland. I spent time teaching, domestically and internationally, and working in the financial industry. I am married and a mom of 4. My family is my everything and God has blessed us immensely. My first 3 pregnancies were standard, but I had a pretty traumatic experience with the birth of our youngest child back in 2018. After a physically and emotionally draining 24-hour labor, I ended up being rushed in for an emergency C-section. Read more>>
James Garibaldi
My entrepreneurial journey began at a young age, sparked by a challenge from my father. When I complained that our family computer needed an upgrade, he suggested I take on a paper route to earn the money myself. Though he helped me significantly with the route—and likely chipped in for the computer—he let me feel the pride of believing I’d paid for it. That computer became my gateway to the online world, where I played games, taught myself to code websites, and fueled my ambition. Read more>>
Aleishea Cordero
This whole journey really started when my husband and I opened our first barbershop and salon. We operated for eight years, and over time, we noticed that a lot of barbers and stylists were looking for more independence. They wanted their own space while still being part of a community. So, about three years ago, we decided to open a barbershop and suites location here in Westchester. The front of the shop has a traditional barbershop setup, fostering a team atmosphere, while the rest of the space consists of individually operated suites. It’s the best of both worlds—everyone has their own business, but there’s still a strong sense of community where people connect, network, and support each other. Read more>>
Ben Mars
FOMO started in 2023 as my way of spotlighting local artists here in Cincinnati. What began as filming live performances quickly turned into Amplify, a full interview series highlighting independent musicians. We’ve grown a lot since that first season, and now, with Season 3, we’re taking things in a completely new direction—mixing music, absurd comedy, and psychological horror into something I don’t think people have ever seen before. Read more>>
Tara Deetscreek
I graduated college with a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree in Art Studio majoring in drawing and ceramics in 2001. My dream was to be a mother and do my art, thats it. Nothing more, nothing less. My dream became my reality. Although my art career has looked different through every season as I raised 4 boys, I always fought to keep art in my life. For the majority of my life I did commissioned paintings for people because it was the most flexible way to earn income as an artist when my children were small. I also taught art in schools, worked as an interior design assistant, and did a myriad of art related endeavors through the years which truly gave me the title “multimedia artist.” I love trying everything and have a hard time saying “no” to anything I think I could accomplish which is my greatest strength and weakness. Read more>>
Mary Taylor
To date, FFPF has supported hundreds of children fighting cancer at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus Ohio by providing books, toys, blankets and gift cards. We have helped their families pay their bills, everything from cell phone payments to mortgages, and have even purchase several reliable cars for families of children fighting cancer. We are proud sponsors of a permanent room at the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio ($10,000 donation) and have provided several meals for families staying at the House. We have purchased burial plots, headstones and helped families with funeral costs. Read more>>
Lana Wilt
Shaker Woods Festival runs three weekends in August. However, it takes months to prepare. New artisans and crafters are chosen each year, which we have a jury process to do so. We also lineup entertainment, for we have three stages of entertainment. Bus companies are notified to bring in tours. As I mentioned before the months of hard work to maintain the grounds. I take pride in making sure the woods are beautifully manicured before guests arrive. I also tend to seven gardens that are situated throughout the woods. Read more>>
Logan Register
Growing up with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a rare brittle bones disease, I faced unique challenges. This disease caused almost every bone to break at birth and over 300 bones since then and 19 surgeries. Therefore, I was often unable to play like other kids, I found solace in art. In fact I remember my Art teacher Mrs. Wilson being the teacher to have the most influence on me during school and life in general. My favorite pastime being movies – especially horror. Fascinated by monsters and their origins, I began my journey in the horror industry. Read more>>
Jeff Winch
For more than 41 years I was in the information technology sector. (Retired now from that) I had moderate experience in everything in that field over that time… computer operations, hardware, software development, administration of networks, training, user support. Read more>>
Tyler Flewelling
Oh god, the road of music is paved with struggles, but I have to say it’s been pretty good for me. That’s partly due to the people I’ve ended up being surrounded by, but it also has to do with where I set the bar for myself. I won’t lie and say I don’t have an ego but we all do. However I decided years ago that my level of success would simply be that I’m participating in the process of creating and releasing music. Read more>>
Danielle Klein
What started as a small venture quickly grew beyond our expectations. We began in a humble space, but we soon outgrew it. During the pandemic, we took a leap of faith and relocated to the heart of Downtown Willoughby, Ohio—a vibrant, artsy community that was the perfect fit for our vision. Today, Stella’s Art Gallery proudly showcases the incredible work of over 71 talented local artists from across Northeast Ohio. Read more>>
J.T. Haught
Falls Outdoor Company was simply born from a love of the outdoors. Whether it was fishing North East Ohio’s many waterways, exploring the woods or just relaxing with friends and family around a backyard bonfire, I’ve always appreciated the simple, fulfilling Midwest lifestyle. While spending a lot of time in Cuyahoga Falls, I found myself surrounded by an incredible outdoor community that shares that same passion. Falls Outdoor Co. is my way of celebrating that spirt and encouraging others to get outside and enjoy it, too. Read more>>
Kia Katella Elliott
I signed up for the class, and began my journey to become a Raindrop Practitioner, and a License Spiritual Healer. I am currently doing Raindrop’s in a shop in Cincinnati Ohio. I would love to do a free consultation with you, or send you a brochure. Read more>>
Jill Burgason
I have been in business for 15+ years. I accidentally fell into it when my two children were in theater during high school and they needed treats for the intermission bake sale. The performance was Stuart Little and I made some chocolate lollipops of a mouse. They were a great hit and many custom orders came from it and thus began my chocolate obsession and addiction! Read more>>
Caleb Huntley
Forever grateful for all the life experience Ohio gave me, as rough as it was at times I do feel it has given me an edge and more resilience than most when times get tough. I’ve have since performed thousands of shows and met many amazing people along the way. I look forward to someday coming back to Ohio for a big show. I am currently based back in OKC, where I was running a music studio for sometime. Meeting many talented people in their fields. I’ve since gained experience in film making and acting which our other passions of mine. Today I am continuing this journey making music playing shows and working on going on some upcoming tours! Read more>>
Matthew Pitts
I started doing photography in August of 2020. It’s actually funny because after we got married my wife and I had a ton of ideas about how to really work on some productions for poetry which is by far our most performed medium of art. But with venues shutting down and performance opportunities becoming more scarce we wanted to figure out how to get our work out there safely and with some impact. With that I purchased my first Canon DSLR for about $350 and just started shooting with some of my friends from the artist community. Through the years I’ve gotten the opportunity to have my work in art galleries, and shoot with some really cool people but it all started with needing to build a visual platform for our work. Read more>>
Congito Jaffe
free neutral public service of use to a cross sections of all demographics , educational and social diversity in a rich American tableau— my eyes noted my neglected guitars, bass, and sheet music in the corner of my den and I said to myself, ” self let’s revisit the 17 year old still alive in our soul and go back to music lessons, songwriting, band and solo playing –the inner goal to share my dream vision and music that still vibrates and resonates. Read more>>
Chuck Taylor
It has not been a smooth road. The biggest problem I encountered was finding qualified people to work in our company. Finding smart, hard working and motivated people was a major problem we had on a regular basis. You have to understand that the work order updates we provided needed to be 100% error free. Mistakes on an update would cost us money in charge backs. Errors were simply not tolerated in our clients eyes and you had to pay close attention to the photos and information provided. The work order update needed to be flawlessly correct which is demanding but that was the protocols we operated under. Read more>>
