Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.
Theophilus Caviness, Jr.
Sometimes, I feel like I have too many things going on at once. I tend to categorize myself as an “Artistic Mind.” I seem to specialize in the field of consulting. Most of the time, people have questions, and they come to me for answers. I don’t claim to know everything, but the outcomes still surprise me. I can give advice, but it really takes that persons trust in my direction and their motivation to make things happen. Read more>>
CoyyTheBoyy
Some people I encountered asked me if I ever thought about making music?!? And I expressed to them that I love music. I haven’t made any but wanted to start. People started to ask me to transform my poem into raps or transform them into songs. So I started making music around 2018 releasing some tracks on SoundCloud! I used to go by the name Czo Kyn at the time. I also did a freestyle to Nicki Minaj’s Chun-Li and posted that to Instagram. And the comment went crazy (lol) Read more>>
Ali Sullivan
Learning everything from scratch has actually been a blessing in disguise—I’ve gained so many skills that now allow me to help clients in more ways than one. But the reality is, the world isn’t designed for people like me. Things like taxes, insurance, and retirement are all set up for people with traditional jobs, and I’ve had to figure it all out on my own. It’s possible, but it definitely feels like the world makes it harder for those of us living unconventional lives. Read more>>
Lisa Miller
Cleveland Rocks and so does Podcast Sista. I was born and raised in the heart of rock and roll in Cleveland, Ohio and I started my solo podcasting career from my home studio in August 2024. Podcast Sista features the stories behind the music told by singers, songwriters and musicians. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with some of the best publicists from across the country who book their clients on Podcast Sista to promote new song releases, music videos, tours, and more. Read more>>
Kueendom
The road to discovery has NOT been fair but rewarding to witness . The process of development in every aspect of this journey has put into perspective for me learning how to embrace every hardship and to be counted it all as joy . Realizing in the second half my 20’s is that the experienced hardship not only provides divine wisdom and a lifetimes worth of powerful lessons , its built my character , tenacity and unshakable resilience . Read more>>
Kinshasha (Shai) Hawkins
A kind doctor once encouraged me to write down my thoughts, and that simple act blossomed into sharing my inspirational “Shaisms” with others. Over time, these messages evolved into my podcast, Heal “U”, and later into a broader mission through life and business coaching, self-care journaling, masterclasses, and daily “Cup of Positivity” snippets. Today, I use my story to empower others to see their own worth and to turn dreams into reality. Through CreativelyShai, I’m dedicated to creating a compassionate community where every challenge is a stepping stone toward a brighter, more authentic life. Read more>>
Liz Maselli
I later joined their board of directors as secretary and headed their social media, fundraising, worked on their website on top of helping with animal transports, event planning and cleaning before resigning in 2024. I started photographing my beloved residents and formed deeper love for photography. I realized photos can bridge the gap between our perception of typically farmed animals and the true reality of their kind and gentle nature. I try to capture personalities to encourage people to learn about the animals humans typically over look and don’t see as having the same feelings or rights to live their lives in peace. Read more>>
Naliyah Hall
It has not been a smooth road at all. One thing that new artists and creatives have to understand is that there will be days where the client style doesn’t align with yours, your cover might not be selected as an official cover, or even in more unfortunate circumstances, you might find that there will be people who take advantage of your services by requesting free artwork. However, these situations never should turn you away from a future career as a graphic designer because there will always be room for everyone. Read more>>
Donald Iannone
My undergraduate years at the University of Arizona broadened my horizons intellectually, creatively, and socially. I discovered the beauty of the desert, mountains, stunning sunsets, and the richness of Hispanic and Native American cultures. Since 1972, I have lived in Greater Cleveland, a region that has become my true home and a fertile crescent for personal growth, education, and career development. I connected deeply with the area’s culture and values. Read more>>
Ryan Stull
I’ve always believed that every chapter of life adds to the story you’re meant to tell. I started out as a kid with big dreams in a small town, scribbling down lyrics and melodies on scraps of paper whenever I could find a quiet moment. Early on, I performed at local talent shows and community events—places where I learned that the raw emotion in my music could connect with people on a personal level. Read more>>
Jon Spreez
My name is Jon Spreez I’m an artist, entrepreneur, host, writer, and emcee from Columbus, by way of Dayton Ohio. I’ve been writing poetry as long as I can remember and began emceeing around 15 years old. I’ve had the pleasure of hosting and putting on dozens of shows in the city and going on two multi city tours, and having a hand in organizations like Ancient Flow Recordings. This has all been a major blessing in my life. I’ve been able to start multiple businesses such as The Higher Plain Music and VA Vizions and it’s given me so many opportunities like speaking with this wonderful publication. Read more>>
Dr. Joanna Consiglio
That’s when I was introduced to chiropractic care—specifically, a chiropractor who worked with a lot of runners. The treatment I received was unlike anything I had experienced before. It wasn’t just a quick adjustment and out the door; it was a blend of chiropractic, soft tissue work, and rehab that actually addressed the root cause of my pain. It was a turning point for me. Read more>>
Elissa Jackson
I am the owner of Elise Floral, a home-based floral business dedicated to providing flowers for all occasions. My creativity is a key factor in setting me apart, as I strive to create arrangements that are truly unique and beyond what can be found in grocery stores and local floral shops. Read more>>
Eric Holley
I known for staying fly and having digital collaborations with the biggest artists in the industry I’m most proud of my album Standing on Business for years my peers had songs with Gucci Mane lil Wayne and Twista and now I have my own album with them out now I never hated or got bitter I just stayed down and loyal and built my team and waited my turn Read more>>
Hilary Hilario
I had no exposure to leather crafting at that point, and had no idea what the tools were meant for. I was intrigued and started researching and watching how-to videos on YouTube. This was the beginning of my love for leather craft. My first project was a simple wallet for my husband. Soon I started to make gifts for friends and family. After some time, I started to get requests from friends and family to make different items, and I loved the challenge of figuring out how to create something I had never made before. This led me to hone my craft and learn the skills necessary to making the bags and accessories I make today. Read more>>
Carlos Sanchez
I have always been fascinated by innovation, constantly seeking ways to push the boundaries of traditional medicine. This passion led me to research, where I’ve had the privilege of publishing manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals, writing book chapters, and contributing to advancements in the field of interventional cardiology and structural heart disease. Read more>>
Patricia Tate
What started as a personal passion soon blossomed into something much greater. I realized that the knowledge I was gaining wasn’t meant to be kept to myself—it was meant to help others. I took formal training in modern, traditional, and evolutionary astrology, blending these techniques to develop a holistic practice that focuses on self-awareness, empowerment, and alignment with one’s soul’s purpose. Read more>>
Marco Carlson
For years, I set limitations on myself that pushed my dream further and further back. I thought I didn’t know how to properly make “a movie movie” so I’d watch endless videos about moviemaking. I thought I needed tons of money so I started a YouTube channel to try to get supporters behind me and my future projects. I thought I couldn’t do it unless this, unless that. And the moment I said, “No. I’m doing this. I’m making a movie” was the moment I finally became a filmmaker. It is the threshold every aspiring filmmaker needs to cross to start their career. No more excuses, no more distractions, and no more negativity. You can figure out your weaknesses you need to improve on AFTER you make your first movie. Read more>>
Maxx Slater
There have definitely been some challenges, but I count them as learning experiences really. The type of art that I create involves a lot of introspection, and reliving a lot of experiences. It can be challenging sometimes, but the feeling of accomplishment and the way that I am able to connect with my clients through my work makes every tough or challenging moment totally worth it. Read more>>
Maralee Martin
The Caring Closet began in November of 2020, born from a desire to share the love and hope of Jesus in a tangible way with women and children coming from hard places. With a few donations in the back of a pop-up chocolate shop in downtown Wooster, we were able to provide clothing for five women and their children as they moved out of the domestic violence shelter at OneEighty. The owner of the building heard what we were doing, and allowed us to move to a larger building he owned, which we quickly filled with donations and volunteers. We then connected with Christian Children’s Home of Ohio and offered to fill needs for them, beginning a fruitful and meaningful partnership. Read more>>
Jermaine Smith
My wife and I now own three barbershops, starting with Premier Barber Studio, which we opened on September 16, 2000. We expanded to a second location in Ohio City, which opened on December 16, 2019, just before the onset of COVID-19. I have always dreamed of expanding to Berea, Ohio, and when the perfect shop became available, I discussed it with my wife, Roshonda Smith. After some consideration, she agreed. Roshonda understands my passion for this work. Read more>>
Danielle Petronelli
Sex therapy was also a natural calling for me, as I grew up in a sex-positive household where conversations about sexual health were open, comfortable, and judgment-free. Because of this, topics surrounding sexuality have always felt easy and natural to discuss. My hope is to extend that same sense of comfort and openness to the individuals and couples I work with, helping them navigate their experiences with confidence and compassion. Read more>>
