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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 Dallas.

Jenny Vorabouth

Starting a new real estate business during the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges, but it also became an opportunity for growth and innovation. As the market faced unprecedented disruptions, traditional methods of buying and selling homes were no longer viable. Instead of viewing these obstacles as setbacks, I embraced them as a chance to think outside the box. Read More>>

Kathrine Trueblood

She said “instead of going to 9 years of school for being a counselor, why don’t you go to 9 months of school and do the same thing!” I questioned her. Her response was “try cosmetology school! Your clients sit in your chair and unload all their gossip, troubles and venting, and you’re there to listen and help give them good advice! It’s basically the same thing without the degree.” We both chuckled. Now, I know it is NOT the “same thing” but she had an incredible point! Why not have fun making someone feel beautiful while also giving them a therapy session. Read More>>

Jason Nix

We currently gather for worship at the Arlington Music Hall. We have two Sunday school classes that meet at 9:30 a.m., and you are welcome to attend either class. Following Sunday School, folks typically gather around 10:30 a.m. to fellowship and grab some coffee, then we all gather for worship at 11:00 a.m. We would love for you to join us, and we can’t wait to meet you. Read More>>

Nailah Karim

The name for the brand was originated by my intrigue of the word, Domeabra, which happened when I couldn’t understand what it meant. Once my mother explained it to me, letting me know that it is the name of a town and a phrase, I knew it was the perfect name to use. With two different interpretations, I picked the one that fit best and applied it to my brand, creating my first collection for my graduation exhibition and continuing the path forward. Read More>>

Melissa Griffing

I knew I wanted to work with kids in some way since I was a teenager! Originally, I went to school to be a teacher and got a job as a 5th grade teacher right out of college. I taught for four years total, but after one year I knew this was not my forever career. I loved working with the kids and getting to know them but I was not enjoying teaching the subjects. I found I was much more interested in their emotional wellbeing than I was their grades. So, after one year of teaching, I went back to school to get my Master’s in Counseling. And the rest of history! I completed the program, did my internships, and started my dream practice in 2021. Read More>>

Tia Lashaé

When I entered the tech world, particularly in cybersecurity, I initially struggled to find my purpose. I had little understanding of what project management truly entailed, but I believe that God places people in our lives for a reason. Through various connections and the support of those around me, I began to uncover my potential. They opened doors and introduced me to opportunities that ignited my passion for project management. Read More>>

Uchenna Ukwu-nwoga

The story behind how we started Apollo Wrldx always makes me a bit emotional because the initial idea versus what we have now is so different—and better! We originally started Apollo to bring members of our community together, and it almost felt like a one-time thing when we “started.” In the summer of 2022, Tobi (our current Executive Producer) messaged Vito and me in a group chat and said he wanted us to put on an event just for fun. Naturally, we said yes. We struggled with coming up with a name for the event and eventually just settled on Apollo (yes, the irony!). Fast forward, the event went well, and everything kind of went silent afterward. Read More>>

Devito Odusanya

It’s been a mostly smooth journey, with a few bumps along the way, but our events have been embraced with love and support by the attendees. We’ve created a welcoming space for young professionals in the African community, and we’re excited to invite other communities to join us on this journey. We want everyone to feel at home in Apollowrldx. Read More>>

Megan Scheriger

Number one, the reason I am here or anywhere is all thanks to God. He has been my guide through this entire journey. I grew up in a small town in Brownwood, Texas. Met my wonderful husband, Andy, now of 10 years. We have 3 beautiful girls who basically run our small world, now aging from 8 to 17. I was a stay at home Mom for the most part until my girls were old enough to start preschool. I became a preschool teacher and taught where they attended school. I did this for about 7 years. Continued even after moving to the Dallas area in 2019. Read More>>

Spencer Shepherd Blake Pugh

Our journey started when we saw a growing need for high-quality, low-maintenance artificial turf that could transform residential and commercial spaces into lush, functional environments. We both share a passion for delivering excellence, and that’s what led us to create Artisan Turf. From the start, our goal has been to provide our clients with top-tier products, exceptional service, and long-lasting results they can depend on. Read More>>

Michael Depriest

At a very young age, I learned the importance of hard work. Watching my mother provide everything we needed through sheer determination and By embracing the power of manifestation truly believing we can achieve anything we desire. That thought process is what set the foundation of my entrepreneurial passions. Read More>>

Reagan Smith

I attended Mississippi State University, where I earned my degree in communications with a focus on public relations and broadcasting. Currently, I’m pursuing my MBA in Human Resource Management at Arkansas State University, broadening my expertise in people management. My professional journey began with roles in customer service, client services, and administrative positions, where I developed a strong foundation in fostering relationships and supporting clients. Today, I am proud to serve as a Talent Recruitment Manager for Imprimis Group, a leading staffing and recruiting agency in DFW, where I continue to pursue my passion for helping individuals find their career paths. Read More>>

Kristen Economaki

I wouldn’t say that I am a naturally organized or neat person, but I don’t believe those are fixed traits anyway. I believe that you can learn how to organize your things in a way that works for you, your space, and your real life. What started out as projects around my own house, then turned into being that friend who would come over to organize your closet with you, has now become a small business that I am really proud of, Real Spaces with Kristen LLC. I am so grateful to my clients who have trusted me to come into their homes and work with their families to bring more intentionality and order into their spaces. Read More>>

Simone Carr

The more complicated the recipe or design, the better. It forced me to concentrate on something positive rather than putting my thoughts on negative outcomes. I began getting request from co-workers and friends for my desserts, and Sugar Sensations by Simone was created. I take orders mostly from people I know but would love to expand to others in the area. My dream is to have my own cheesecake shop that offers a variety of flavors and sizes. Read More>>

Janna Weaver

We take a personalized, holistic approach to helping people manage weight, improve wellness, and achieve lasting lifestyle changes. Our practice focuses on more than just food—it’s about healing emotional relationships with eating and supporting clients through their unique challenges. I’ve always been open about my own experiences with weight loss and body image struggles, and this vulnerability helps me connect deeply with my clients. At Radiant Nutrition, we empower people to feel good about their choices, offering ongoing support no matter where they are in their health journey. We pride ourselves on creating a caring, non-judgmental environment where clients can be seen, heard, and encouraged. Read More>>

Jon Powell

I went to college in 2003 out in Northern California. A town called Arcata in Humboldt County. There was less than 50k people in a 25 mile radius, yet there were 4 breweries. I was shocked at the selection of beers in the stores. College house parties had people bringing over 6 packs of IPAs instead of cases of Natty Light like I was use to in Texas. Read More>>

Laura Wimberly

Over the last decade, I’ve been digging deep into finding what my purpose is. I have always served in my church and eventually got a great job in human resources. I recently began considering hosting a podcast. I felt I could help so many people this way. I’m excited to have launched, Questions Podcast, in July 2024. Read More>>

Oscar Mendoza

I cannot say that I entered this field because of my familial background. I never really thought myself any different from other people growing up because I was a son of immigrants. I perhaps fell into practicing immigration law due to the opportunities that presented themselves to me like the opportunity to work as a legal assistant with an immigration lawyer. But I find meaning in helping immigrants legalize their status in the USA. I experience a joy when I win an asylum case for my clients in court, for example, and can’t help get emotional with my clients when they win. Read More>>

Brandon Dang

One of the biggest challenges Noodz faced early on was networking. “I struggled with it a lot in the beginning. But once I started showing up and meeting and supporting the local scene, things shifted. Meeting and getting to know the talented DJs and getting to know each person and making friends in Dallas scene was game-changing for my career. I couldn’t expect for doors to automatically open and went out and met the people I call friends today.” Read More>>

 

Kayla Turner

Since middle school I’ve always enjoyed doing hair and started to get good at it, so other people saw how I did my own and wanted me to do theirs also. I realized I could get paid for my talent and started to make income throughout my teenage years. I played basketball in high school so I could not pursue my hair career by attending cosmetology school during high school and play sports at the same time . I worked hard enough to receive a basketball scholarship and attend college, so doing hair was put on the back burner until I needed extra money.  Read More>>

Lashameice Williams

I am a Navy veteran. I have always been a creative person. I took a leap of faith and purchased my first laser. It took me long nights on YouTube to understand how to work the thing! lol I started creating small things for my family and friends. I then started posting on social media and building my brand. I told myself that the people would help me choose my niche and I kept getting families who wanted decor for their children’s graduation or simply home decor for their kids bedroom so that’s what I led with. Read More>>

Denise Lewis

I got started with Mocca Makeup & Skincare by chance. I was using Mary Kay skincare products and had a reaction to it. I had blotches and light spots all over my face. I went to my classmate Kena Baccus-Williams and ask if she had anything that could fix my problem, She sold me the skincare set at a discount and instructed me on how to use the products. In less than 2 months, my skin problems cleared up completely.  Read More>>

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