It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around Ohio.
Brittany Vink
I’ve only ever been interested in art and design so I knew from a very young age that my future would involve this in some type of form. My undergraduate years were spent drawing and painting which then led to fashion design and interiors in my professional life. I really believe all these steps guided me to where I am today and has abled me to see the full picture of a space. I currently work with clients across the U.S. to transform their interiors along with a lifestyle and home website dedicated to collected found pieces and limited release artwork. All of these interests have been with me for years and now can work together in a harmonious way. Read more>>
Vivian Brinkman
It all started when I began searching for natural solutions for our own family. I started by researching cleaning products for our home—and I was horrified by what I learned. We were being exposed to harmful toxins every single day without even realizing it. That led me down a rabbit hole into the world of personal care products and natural remedies. Because if what we’re breathing in is that harmful, what about what we’re putting on our skin every day? Read more>>
Aimee Hudson
In 2012, while working in the service industry and falling in love with my now-husband, I decided it was time to chase something that truly lit me up. I enrolled in esthetics school with dreams of becoming a makeup artist. But once we began hands-on training with facials, everything changed. I didn’t just want to make people look beautiful — I wanted to help their skin be healthier, naturally. No harsh chemicals, no quick fixes — just real, restorative care. Read more>>
Ann Neely
During my freshman year of college, I encountered a pivotal moment. After a challenging first semester, I realized my initial path toward teaching was no longer an option. I wasn’t eligible to sit for the teaching licensure exam due to GPA requirements, and I found myself at a crossroads. While exploring new paths, I discovered the Event Planning major—attracted not only by the creative, people-centered nature of the field, but also (admittedly) by the fact that it didn’t require advanced math. What began as a practical choice quickly became a passion, and I dove in headfirst. I never looked back, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Read more>>
Dana Knight
Over the years, I’ve tried to maintain this narrative, but it hasn’t always come naturally. I started gaining recognition for my collaborations, elaborate market setups, and creative candle concepts and themes, eventually leading to the birth of Concept Candle Bar. Choosing to rebrand was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my business journey. I love that I no longer have to conform to a box to convey my message through my candles. Now, I enjoy the freedom to explore any concept I envision with my candle collections. Read more>>
William Brashear
For example, we start this yoga teacher training at a beach in Goa to study the water element, then we go to Hampi to enter and experience the earth element within many ancient stone temples, then to Pyramid Valley (pyre/fire) to meditate inside of a giant pyramid, and so on. Also, in the near future we hope to hold yoga retreats in Coron, an island of the Philippines with some of the most pristine water and some of the last remaining brilliantly colorful corral. This is one of many ways we practice Vishwa or Universal Yoga; which is not just about teaching universal yoga practices, but also providing opportunities for our students to yoke (yogh) with the beauty and wisdom throughout the world. Read more>>
Deanna Evans
No business is without it’s struggles. One hurdle I had to quickly overcome was learning that I don’t have the same support as I did when I worked a corporate job. There was no longer an accounting department, shipping, customer service, HR, marketing or sales. I had to wear all of those hats! This means that I sometimes work way more than 8 hours a day. Some tasks I enjoy and some I have to make the decision to outsource. Read more>>
Salena Steele
I also started making miniature magnetic hinge toppers for myself and added them to my shop as they’ve been my biggest hit! Alongside those products, I am a photographer and muralist as well! I call myself the Jill of all trades because I believe creativity has no bounds. And though I respect an artist’s journey in one creative lane and think that is perfectly beautiful, I am someone who gets bored doing the same thing, which is why I do (probably) too much and have a more umbrella business to encompass all that I do. Read more>>
Amanda Bottleson
My background is in management, running our family business for 25 years. I was able to apply my practices learned my years as CEO of Youthland Academy to the business model and plan for Green Farm. Mara’s background is in economics and finance; she worked at BlackRock since graduating from Berkley in the 90’s. I had pursued a study in yoga, Ayurveda and meditation along the way, and we were able to mix all these years of work, training and studying health to build our idea of the most perfect juice and smoothie bar. Read more>>
Cincere Banks
As a creative, I wear many hats—sometimes literally. Whether I’m choreographing a visual for a music video or curating a look for an editorial shoot, it all comes down to expression and detail! I love bringing awareness to different brands and business because god has done so much for me,I love to give back and give what has been installed in me! I’ve had the opportunity to reach over 800K+ views across platforms, but more importantly, I’ve had the chance to connect with people who resonate with my art. Read more>>
Caitlin Faas
I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, so I pursued education and psychology in college, eventually becoming a psychology professor. I kept growing and studying adult development, leaning into career coaching for corporate executives. Now I give motivational talks for organizations and help teams with their communication skills. Read more>>
Armahn Batiste
Struggles mentally? Yes, early in my career I was spoiled with getting a big placement my first few months of taking music production seriously so i excepted greater & new things everyday and forgot that within life it will always be highs and lows, no matter what’s going on but that made me appreciate where I’m at right now in life and within music and it allowed me to learn patience and to be grateful for the present moment. Read more>>
Connie Kaya
I started dabbling in sewing flax linen items in 2019. My first project was reusable coffee filters which lead into bread and vegetable storage bags. My search for linen fabric landed me in heaven. I was buying different weights and colors of linen fabric. I started making dish towels and gifting them to family and friends, so I could receive feedback. My inventory of fabric was growing and this is when I decided to start my business, LocoLinen. I have been actively doing local vendor events for the last 4 years. Read more>>
Paige McGeorge
I originally started College majoring in early childhood, education and minoring in special ed. At 22 years old, I became pregnant with my daughter Sariah. This led me to a redirection in my life. I always had a passion for skin, and anything related to the beauty industry. We actually joke now because growing up, I would always try to pop everyone’s blackheads and pimples, or my dad would always get so irritated with me for being in the bathroom so long picking at my face. Read more>>
Aviated Keyaan
My passion for writing lyrics began around junior high, when I would write my first rhymes at a friends house that we call “Westside Boo”. By the time I was in high school I met another friend through track and field named Ray. Ray introduced me to his friend Jason, who lived in a more affluent community than us, his bedroom was set up with 2 computers, tv, internet. And most of all access to a microphone, I remember being influenced by artists like Cam’ron and Pharrell Williams, not only for the music, but for the uncompromising sense of style they both displayed. Read more>>
Julia Lewis
I started by photographing my high school’s sporting events, but I quickly realized I had a real passion (and eye) for portraits. I connected with a recently graduated senior who had just launched her own wedding photography business and interned with her for a few months. That experience, along with some online courses and support from a few other local photographers, gave me the push I needed to start my own business once I graduated high school in 2017. Read more>>
Mercy Schurger
It has been a mostly smooth road in large part thanks to my amazing husband. I am not the techiest (is that even a word?) of people so he runs the sound and sets up everything for most of our episodes. He’s also just the biggest supporter of this podcast which has meant to the world to me. Read more>>
Jillian King
After college I spent some time working in multiple areas of the wedding planning world. I assisted with a venue, assisted at a planning company and also worked in the office of a full service caterer. Then in the last year, I found myself planning my own wedding and knew that this was where my passion truly was. After designing, planning and executing my own big day I came to realize how much value and need there really is for wedding planners. This was the push I needed and I wound up opening the books for Crown and Harmony just shortly after I said I Do. Read more>>
Sheena Cloninger
JG Promotions is a craft and vendor event coordinator in Northeast Ohio. We specialize in fundraising and events. We try to keep all of our events at an affordable rate so that small businesses have an opportunity to get their product into the peoples hands. We stand out with our community vibe as well as our desire to advertise as much as we can. I am most proud of the fact that I started this from nothing. I’ve grown as a person and as a company. I’ve never hidden the fact that I am in recovery and I think that helps me stay honest and fair as well as continue to work hard. Read more>>
Brooke Pitman
Pageantry is what helped me start believing in myself. I’ve been competing for over four years, and holding the title of Miss Supreme Ohio was such a full-circle moment. It taught me confidence, how to walk into a room and own who I am, and how to use my voice not just for me, but for other girls who feel like they’re not enough. Read more>>
Michael Smith
In February 2025, the Smiths expanded their ventures with Trust Coffee Co., an all-day café at 27225 Wolf Rd. in Bay Village. They revitalized the former Java Bay Coffee space, doubling its size and adding a full liquor license. Trust Coffee Co. offers a seamless experience from morning coffee to evening cocktails, serving brews from local and national roasters and featuring a menu of fresh salads, sandwiches, and happy hour drinks. Read more>>
Hmmf
I started to make music as a young teen in Boston, MA. It started from freestyle battling and later started to create music. Around 18 I started to do shows from Boston to Los Angeles and everywhere in between. Later on becoming a Father to a alittle girl my image was rebranded as I started doing everything myself at the comfort of my home when I relocated to northwest Ohio. Read more>>
Midori Zimmerman
Glow Where You Are is a traveling esthetician business. I am meeting you where you are location and skin wise to give you at least one hour of your day all for yourself. I specialize in relaxation helping you find inner peace to help you glow from within. I offer many services from facials, waxing, and lash/brow services. I do single bookings as well as events like bridal parties, bachelorettes, or even just a night in with your best girlfriends! Read more>>
Kimberly Jarvis
And we’re not just a one-day event anymore. Programs like the Student Lit Day, Young Authors Conference, Buckeye Book Camp, and discounted books for teachers and librarians help us fuel a passion for reading all year long. Backed by supporters like the Ohio Arts Council and Arts Midwest, the Buckeye Book Fair has grown into a national model for promoting literacy while keeping that warm, small-town spirit that started it all. Read more>>
Kristen Beck
By the time I was double digits I was constantly sending in rolls of film to be developed at CVS 1 Hour Photo (where I subsequently worked in my teen years). My parents let me use their “nice camera” and I promptly broke it by dropping it on a boat ride on the Hudson River while we were visiting New York City. This prompted them to buy me my very first real camera, a Pentax 35mm analog SLR. I used the hell out of that thing photographing friends, working on the yearbook staff, and taking an obscene number of photos of my cats. Read more>>
Dennis Butts Jr
As referenced before, I have always seem to have to overcome the odds of others doubting me or recognizing my performance. I’ve had to step out on faith, betting on myself that I could drive performance in areas that leaders felt weren’t opportunities and do so consistently. I’ve had to say no to employers when offers didn’t align with my purpose, value for my family, or the level I believed I deserved. But it always hasn’t been a straight line as there have been some disappointments along the way, but I learned from them which only made me the better person I am today. Read more>>
Stephanie Febres
Demure Aesthetics was born from that dream, along with countless late nights, continued education, and unwavering resilience. Every challenge along the way has shaped both me and the business. Today, Demure Aesthetics is a true reflection of everything I believe in, authentic beauty, expert care, continuous growth, and providing a personalized experience where every client feels truly seen and celebrated. Read more>>
Ron Flack
In the fall of 1979, Ron Flack began his freshman year as an art student at Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU). It didn’t take long for him to discover a vibrant community of songwriters on campus. Driven by his love for music, Ron organized events that connected these young songwriters with musicians, creating a platform called Students at Work. This initiative brought songs to life, fostering collaboration and creativity. Even after Ron’s “requested departure” from MVNU following his first year, the events he started continued to thrive. Read more>>
Deezy
OT Deezy, a 26-year-old hip-hop artist from Cleveland, Ohio, started his career in 2017 when he signed an independent record deal with SBYZ Entertainment in Los Angeles at just 17. That year, he walked his first red carpet at the Hollywood Maxim Hot 100 Party and attended major events like Karma International, Rae Sremmurd’s private birthday bash, and Coachella. Now, as the CEO of his own label, 4WAY Mafia Records, OT Deezy has established himself as an independent artist. Read more>>
Veronica Thornton
As such in order to continue my journey I had to pave a way. One of the biggest obstacles I had to overcome was me. I kept getting in my own way as I was trying to serve everyone in the beginning. I quickly realized that I had to figure out my target market and continue learning through various types of professional development acknowledging that it was okay to ask for help. I also learned my ability to work across sectors through collaborations allowed me to seek mutually beneficial creative solutions that were not previously noticed. Read more>>
Onslow Williams
When founding Close 2 Home Residential Care Facilities LLC, Dejuan and I wanted to be in the position to be financially independent, serve the communities , and also give opportunities to others for employment and career development. We thought of different ways on how we could do all of the above and we decided on opening a group home for ambulatory elders. As we embarked on that journey , we had little no knowledge on which route to take. Along the way outside of us doing our own research we got connected to a few individuals in the industry or in similar industries. Read more>>
Shelby Sochor
I tattoo in a variety of styles, but I would say color tattoos are what I do best. I love tattooing animals, cartoons/video games, neo-traditional, and illustrative designs. I’m proud of being able to work on so many fun projects, ranging from black and gray to full color and coverups. I really try to make the tattooing experience as comfortable as possible for my clients, and I give back to my community by running fundraisers every so often. Read more>>
JoQuetta Hummons
Starting Omega Janitorial Service LLC in 2019 was one of the most defining moments of my life. Growing up, I watched my family pour their hearts into their daycares and janitorial businesses. I saw the sacrifices they made, the late nights, the relentless hustle—all in the name of providing for their families and serving their communities. Their resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit planted a seed in me that I carry to this day. Read more>>
Jevon Martin
It has not been a smooth ride at all. There has been a lot bumps in the roads. There were some days/ weeks I still mentally would be beat my self and almost feel discouraged. I knew I still had to certain things to improve myself I just didn’t know what they were at the time. But really just making sure I stayed consistent was a struggle for me. And also getting my diet on the right path as well. Read more>>
Cris Fellows
That herb was Red Clover, and I was hooked. Around that time, we bought the 3 abandoned city lots behind our house, I started planting and studying. Fellows Herb’N Garden is now an urban regenerative permaculture garden with a strong focus on herbs. Teaching, tours, live plants and herbal medicinals are offered. Currently FHG has 20 pointed tincture blends, 7 chakra balancing teas and 7 salves available. I am always available for questions. As one might expect, I do not offer medical advice, if that is needed, see your provider. Read more>>
Taylor Fry
I truly cannot thank my family enough for the constant love and support they give me each day. Between family sessions & wedding events, my schedule can get pretty crazy during peak season. Having my beautiful family and my photography schedule, I wouldn’t be able to do what I love without the support and encouragement that I receive from my wonderful fiancé, Wesley. Every day he is there to jump in with our two boys while I am out capturing your sweet faces! Read more>>
Kenny “Coach Jo Jo” Smith
The road has not been without adversity. Navigating the pressures of entrepreneurship, the emotional challenges of community work, and the complexities of sustaining meaningful impact requires the same resilience and perseverance I learned as an athlete. I am the type that looks meets each challenge head-on , while maintaining a strong, faith-centered home life with my wife and children, including proudly supporting my daughters, two time published authors known nationally as the “Hall of Fame Authors.” Read more>>
Andy Erb
At that point I was evolving my sound and the capability of performing my first 30 minute set. In a short amount of time I have opened up many new doors and found my people, and it was only the beginning. Now I am proud to say I have completed a whole residency at The Comet in February, only a year and a half after my first show. There are many other shows since then, and more to come this year. I hope to expand upon my sound and establish my footing in more spaces. Read more>>
Mallory Weinmann
Ohhhhh man. The spa service provider world is not easy to break into! I waited tables for the first 5+ years of my career as an Esthetician while i was building up my clientele. This was pre- social media, mind you. Now, everything is so different! I would send out mailers to people who had just moved into the area, really “beat the pavement” as my first boss would say. It taught me so much and got me out of my shell. Read more>>
Heather Hall
I would watch them obsessively. I had naturally curly hair that no one could ever cut or style nicely or to my liking, so that was also a big motivator that there had to be someone out there that knew how to do it, right? My roommate after I graduated from college put it in my head that I should just go to cosmetology school, so I did. That was in 2006 and I’ve never looked back! It wasn’t until 2012 or so that I began to really specialize in curly hair. Read more>>
Carla Welechuk Kowski
My path in the beauty industry has always been guided by one core belief – that true beauty is about revealing your most authentic self. This philosophy became ingrained in me during my time as a Beauty Educator for Chanel Cosmetics, where I learned that luxury isn’t about masking imperfections, but celebrating individuality through flawless technique and premium products. Read more>>
Kaley Tocco
In comparison to other roads I’ve been on with collaborative projects, this road has been extremely smooth. Everything Lauren and I have done together has just worked out so organically. We both hold the same values and views on work ethic and collaboration and we support each other well – it makes it a breath of fresh air when it comes to working together. Everything we offer is from our hearts and we strive to keep each other accountable. Read more>>
Monty Milburn
We planted our roots in Cincinnati and grew by staying true to what mattered — supporting talent, building community, and delivering work that helps brands truly shine. What started as a small, scrappy studio has grown into a nationally recognized production company, but at our core, we’re still a close-knit team of photographers, directors, retouchers, and producers who care deeply about what we do. Read more>>
Charity Hamilton
During college I didn’t pick up my camera as much but eventually started an Instagram page for the pictures I took. After I got married my MIL actually suggested me to someone as a wedding photographer, and I was a bit scared at first. I have always been the type who was afraid to charge too much or was afraid I wouldn’t be good enough. I did end up doing the wedding though! I didn’t charge anything as it was my first wedding, but each one since I’ve charged a bit more as I gain experience and next month will be my 4th wedding. Read more>>
Dereck Malone
My journey started 12 years ago as a gamer. I streamed on a website called Twitch. I was a full time sponsored call of duty streamer for 7 and a half years. During covid I was vice president of a gaming website company and once covid released its restrictions in Ohio my girlfriend took me out on date night once a week. I seen first hand how many people were struggling, the owners trying to get people back inside dining, down to the servers who weren’t making any money. Shortly after that I thought why not try food reviews and help out these small mom and pop shops! Fast forward 4 years later I have collectively 2 million followers on all social media platforms Read more>>
Norelis De Jesus-Pomales
In 2018, I decided to finish my bachelor’s degree. I already had an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Science of Police, and in 2022, I finished my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Homeland Security. Afterward, I began my master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, which I completed in December 2024. I’m very proud of myself because, despite being a single mother, having a full-time job, and being a leader in my church, I was able to complete my studies. Within the community, I was recognized by the Cohort of 2023 as one of the 100 most-known or influential Latinx people in Cleveland, thanks to Marcia Moreno. Read more>>
