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.
Radha Windham
Definitely not smooth however it’s been crystal clear on what the vision and purpose of Radha School of Music and having that clarity has made it so that I could overcome the hard times. I’ve struggled with being a strong leader (especially at a young age working with mostly people older than me). I’ve struggled with learning everything on the business end of things as that was never my strong quality. I’ve struggled with how to keep myself healthy so that I can continue to do what I do. I work on average 70 hours per week and it’s been much more than that in the past. But all these struggles really shape who I am and I have embraced them all (eventually ha!). Read more>>
Natalia/Lisa Alas Duran/Batres
We thought of people like our own family members, friends, and community members who are hesitant about meeting with a therapist (and for valid reasons!) and we wanted to dedicate a practice where people like them can try therapy, even if they are nervous about it. We also know that a lot of clients who come from immigrant households may be nervous or anxious about starting counseling or speaking with a mental health professional, because of stigma and cultural factors. This led to the creation of Sin Miedo (“Without Fear”) Counseling. We chose the name to acknowledge that starting something new can be anxiety-provoking and scary, but we can still do brave things or act fearlessly even if that fear or worry is still there. Read more>>
Gabrielle Wagabaza
Once there I had a strong focus on Chiropractic philosophy, corrective exercises, pediatric, and perinatal care. Upon graduating school, I started my practice GW Lux Chiro, which has grown from a concierge practice to both a brick + Mortar location with concierge care available. My intention as a chiropractor has been to help my patient’s connect to their body, mind, and spirit through the experience of chiropractic care. We all have an innate ability to heal and the spine holds all the answers for supporting our body’s highest alignment of health. I’m very passionate about being apart of the Austin Wellness Community. I’m eternally grateful for all the support and love I’ve received from patient’s and friends on this journey. Read more>>
Cory Calcagni
The Frog brought me clarity, purpose, and an undeniable passion to share its blessings with others. I knew in my heart that my life would never be the same. Kambo became my teacher, revealing the sacred art of medicine and the power of shamanic healing. In ceremony, this work is supported by the weaving of ancient medicinal songs—ikaros—that deepen the healing process. Read more>>
Keke Powell
I started partnering with different companies throughout the years. I have done work with over 30+ companies and have really grown as a content creator. All of the content you see on my socials is exactly what you would see me do in my classroom. It doesn’t feel like work and I enjoy inspiring other ideas to other educators. My students get so excited when they see a new box in the classroom and want to see what’s inside. I want people to see their authentic reactions and their joys of excitement! Read more>>
Stephanie Robinson
I would say it’s been mostly smooth sailing. Everyone at KOOP is the same in that we all have the same reasons for being there. While not everyone involved with the station is there in a musical capacity, we all share the passion for being part of this community and creating informative and enjoyable content for our listeners and the community at large. The biggest struggle I’ve faced is having my show rescheduled from the Friday slot I was in for a couple of years due to my work schedule changing. And that’s hardly a struggle worth complaining about! Read more>>
Jose Duran Rendon
In 2017, when I was 17, I moved to the U.S. and landed in Alpharetta, Atlanta. I didn’t speak a word of English at first, but I learned in five months. It was a huge shift—new culture, new way of thinking, a completely different pace of life. And of course, I missed home. Over the years, my grandparents passed away while I was here, and that distance—being far from where I grew up, from the people who raised me—was something I carried with me. Read more>>
Kenzie Nixon
The flower truck is set up as a build it yourself flower bar. The flowers are by the stem, and you get the option to build your own bouquet! I try to stock the truck with locally grown florals as often as I can. There are times that my assistance is requested to build a bouquet and it’s usually a team effort. And every now and then someone will give me full creative liberty to build any style of bouquet. I love seeing what other people create, but I also love creating for them as well! I especially enjoy working together to make something beautiful in their own style. Read more>>
Ramin Jahedi
Today, I’m the CEO and Founder of Black Ops Agency, where I get to blend my passion for storytelling with digital innovation, helping brands amplify their voices through video marketing and go-to-market strategies. Along the way, I developed the C.E.O. Model—Connect, Educate, Offer—because I’ve learned that authentic relationships are the foundation of success, whether in business or life. I also host Talk2Rami, a podcast where I share inspiring stories from people of all walks of life, because I truly believe everyone has a lesson to teach. Read more>>
Eon Swiegers
I could tell that the US was a good fit for what I have to offer. 2020, when the world decided to panic, I decided to take action and come to the city that says: “i want to experience everything this life has to offer”. Austin became my home. It took me a minute to network and once I had the connections needed I started running my 200 hour yoga trainings. I also had, and still have, a strong focus on helping athletes get 1% extra out of their performance. Having dealt with corporates, I decided to keep the momentum helping from financial companies to tech companies to manage stress. Teaching employees the importance of the breath. In 2023, my yoga trainings shifted to Cedar Park area in order to expand my reach in the surrounding areas. 2025 may bring new adventures. Perhaps partnering with an Austin based company that runs worldwide retreats. Read more>>
Ram Vela
Whether it be starting a band, maintaining it and booking shows, it’s always challenging. The city of Austin has always been filled with very talented musicians, but can also be very cliquey (which can be a good or bad thing). I love the idea of building community but at times, that depends on style, fit, genre, age, etc… I don’t ever want this project to feel like working another full-time job. I started it with the intentions of playing with people I admire and most importantly, making sure we’re having fun and not taking ourselves too damn seriously. Read more>>
Jess Gonzalez
As a salon suite owner, I’ve navigated the real challenges of small business ownership—from building a loyal clientele and managing finances to staying current in a fast-paced industry. Every setback has been a setup for growth. I’ve created a space where beauty meets resilience—and every client leaves feeling both. Read more>>
TJ Dumser
Six Missing began quietly—born out of stillness, late-night looping sessions, and a need to slow down. Before that, I spent over a decade and a half in New York City, working as a mix engineer and sound designer, bouncing between studios, chasing deadlines, and playing shows nearly every weekend (and most weeknights). It was a beautiful kind of chaos, but eventually, I realized I was giving everything to the noise and leaving very little for myself. Read more>>
Esther Alonso
Originally from Spain, I moved to the UK at 22 and began my career in the dating industry as a stylist. I worked with a dating company, helping men and women refine their wardrobes and improve their appearance for dates. But as I spent more time with my clients, I realized that their struggles went far beyond style—many lacked confidence, had trouble attracting the right partner, and didn’t know how to navigate the modern dating world. That’s when I transitioned into coaching. Read more>>
NeNe
No, it hasn’t been easy at all. I’ve given up on this dream plenty of times because I felt like I didn’t have the support others had. I would start and stop and jump back into it like I never left. Now at my big age I feel like I stopped myself this whole time always being worried about what others may think or not like. I still worry myself with these same “problems”, but I don’t think I’ll stop again. Read more>>
Kia Aird
My craft began in 2014 through an educational program in my district that allowed me to pursue portrait and studio photography. Having that experience prior to graduating high school influenced me to venture out into different genres of photography in order to fulfill my goal: helping people see themselves through unbiased eyes. This has translated into my business motto of “Your Vision, Our Lens”. Prime Contrast Media has been brought into existence through many trials and tribulations, deep faith, and a vast group of supportive people in my life. Read more>>
Kelvin Fonseca
Over time, my interests expanded beyond competing—I developed a love for photography and media. I began working as a photographer, videographer, web designer, social media manager, and graphic designer, helping martial arts organizations and athletes share their stories with the world. This eventually led me to establish my own media company, Clay Media. Today, I specialize in professional Jiu-Jitsu photography, covering the biggest events and tournaments in the sport. Read more>>
Natalie Forster
In 2007, I made an impulse decision to study nutrition in university. That decision changed everything. The next four years were full of trial and error, wild experimentation, and deep curiosity. I tested nearly every trending dietary framework—driven more by spiritual, political, and environmental ideology than functional evidence. But despite their flaws, these explorations led me to something powerful: my body started healing. My inflammation came down. My reliance on medication dropped dramatically—from three times a day to about five times per month. I was feeling clearer, stronger, more human. And I couldn’t get enough of it. That personal transformation lit a fire in me to understand why food had this power. Read more>>
Isabel Lavercombe
During the buildout, while navigating permits, inspections, and renovations, we became pregnant with what we now call our ‘Salt Room Baby’ — Jinjin. I was five months pregnant when we finally opened in May 2023. I was laser-focused on setting up the business and learning the trade to prepare for my upcoming leave. I couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of my close friends, who stepped in and helped the Austin Salt Room grow while Jinjin and I took a brief birth break. When we returned, Jinjin became an honorary team member — IYKYK! That first year was such a special time, and Jinjin’s presence became a symbol of our commitment to creating a welcoming space for families and people to come as they are to be welcomed and accepted. Read more>>
Jimmy Seidel
Prior to Snarf’s, I was in the financial industry working as a market maker in Chicago. To be honest… it wasn’t a good fit for me. I couldn’t see myself doing it for the rest of my career. My dream for many years had been to open my own sandwich shop. I’ve always loved cooking my favorite things for my friends. It makes me happy. Similarly, I wanted to open a shop where I could prepare my favorite sandwiches for my customers – sandwiches that were reminiscent of my favorite meals. I had a mission of creating the perfect sandwich. I decided to take the risk and make it happen. I quit my job in Chicago and moved to Boulder, Colorado. Read more>>
Frank Escalante
I started in 2017 in Costa Mesa, CA at now, non-existant bar called the “Anchor Bar”. It was a 2 story pizza shop that doubled as a weekly monday night comedy show on the first floor. Everybody got 3 minutes. Without knowing it, I got to see future Netflix Comedians perform there. I saw Tom Allen (Chad Goes Deep & Chad Kroeger) Brian Simpson (Netflix & JRE) and numerous other acts like Jason Cheny, Carmen Morales, and Steve Furey. This little dingy bar was bringing in LA’s best comedians to a 40-seat, low ceiling, $5 pizza establishment. This bar helped me establish my love for the craft really quickly which lead to me pursuing it full-time. Read more>>
Esmeralda Mireles-Monroe
Craft making started out as a hobby. I don’t think there’s only one specific craft that captures my heart, but many. If you look back to my work such as photography and or my previous charcuterie business, I enjoyed capturing moments, seeing the beautiful colors of the cheeses, fruits and garnishes come together to make a special piece. The designing was a great part of it too. I wanted to an opportunity to get back into a creative space and then I discovered clay! I got to sculpting and painting, and that’s how Cozy Cottage Crafts Co. came to life! Read more>>
Riley Norsworthy
I applied and got the position within a couple weeks. From there I decided to put all of my time into my art, determined to finish my apprenticeship and become a full fledged tattoo artist. I was also earning money working full time at my family’s restaurant, 54th Street Restaurant and Drafthouse, on top of working 4-6 nights a week at the tattoo shop. Unfortunately, I had to quit working at that tattoo shop some time later due to disagreements with the owner. I was on my own, searching anywhere and everywhere for books and information on tattooing for a couple months. Thankfully, I had met a new tattoo artist that had just moved to New Braunfels from Florida through the restaurant, Ray Arce, and he took me in to finish out my apprenticeship. Read more>>
Krystal Grimes
Following these conversations and the deep desire for more from community member snot just in Bastrop but in surrounding areas, I dedicated my career to learning more, deepening my commitment to understanding the effects of racism and trauma. This evolved into a few podcast episodes, a consulting agency (AMMA Services), work as a mental health strategist and eventually the boldest of my endeavors- The founding of a 501c3 Nonprofit called, HEAL Alliance. Read more>>
Dr. Chase Davidson
From my mom, an occupational therapist, I learned grit and the drive to serve. I went through graduate school and learned from Dr. Zielinski, an internationally renowned Functional Neurologist, the importance of the nervous system. From Kelly Starrett and Louie Simmons, I discovered how the nervous system and strength systems are inseparable in athletic recovery. That shaped everything I do now. Read more>>
Jolene Lane-Huereca
I started my real estate journey over a decade ago as a solo agent with a lot of passion and very little clue of just how much this career would shape my life. I dove in headfirst, eager to help people find not just houses, but true homes. Over the years, through a lot of learning, hustle, and heart, I’ve grown from an individual agent to leading a powerhouse team of six amazing agents at The Lane Group. Today, I also have the privilege of serving as the sales manager for the New Braunfels office of the Phyllis Browning Company. Read more>>
Karen Gonzalez
Honestly, it hasn’t been an easy road, but that’s part of the process. Like in any business, I’ve faced challenges, especially in the beginning when I was learning everything about the industry and building my client base. Sometimes there are slow months, indecisive customers, or situations beyond my control, but I’ve learned to handle them with patience and focus. Read more>>
Amy Perley
Setting up my own business has had its challenges. For one thing, when you first start out you feel obliged to accept every project that comes your way, whether it is a good fit for you or not. Learning how to set rates, create boundaries between yourself and your clients and deal with all the admin that comes with running your own business are all things that seem to be learned largely through trial and error. Read more>>
Clayton Lillard
Mateo and I (Clay) have been friends since high school, and have been making art and producing events together in Austin since about 2009. We started our production company Independent Event Creatives (IEC) in 2018 to get out of the freelancing industry and start taking our own client work and producing our own activations. Mesmerize started shortly after as a free art event series we hosted to showcase new works and our capabilities as producers. Read more>>
Innoscent Malik
Toward the end of 2020, I decided to invest in a photo booth. However, I didn’t receive my first booth until April 2021. During those four months, I dedicated myself to learning everything I could about digital marketing—Facebook ads, Google SEO, and online advertising. By the time my equipment arrived, I had already secured several thousand dollars in bookings. That’s when I made the leap, quit my job, and went all in. Read more>>
Daniela
Over time, I realized how much I enjoyed helping business owners craft their unique stories and connect with their target audiences through social media and other digital platforms. This passion grew into Muse Marketing House, where I now have the privilege of working with incredible clients to develop customized marketing strategies that align with their brand’s goals. I love treating each business as if it were my own, bringing fresh ideas, consistency, and professionalism to every project. Read more>>
Wendy Conklin
What started as a hobby quickly turned into a side hustle. I began restyling old chairs with bold fabrics and fun patterns, and before long, friends and strangers were asking me to help them do the same. I opened an Etsy shop and started taking custom orders while still working full time. Eventually, the day job had to go. I took out a loan, asked for a six-month leave from work, and jumped in with both feet. Within two days, I knew I was never going back. Read more>>
Bethany Cyrtmus-Davaul
Austin Rise FC is bringing professional women’s soccer to Austin and this summer will also be playing for a $1,000,000 prize at TST in North Carolina! How did we get here? The club was founded in Fall 2022 by five women who had all played together on their prior semi-professional team. Sadly, the experience on that team ended abruptly after a league investigation into the conduct of the owner and team manager. Eventually, this led to the former team’s dissolution and us and others without a team. So, the five of us decided to band together and create a new team, re-brand and build it the right way for women. We were rebuilding a team from nothing, from the ground up, and this is where the symbolism of the phoenix on our team crest comes into the picture. Read more>>
Selena Cruz
The support from my Facebook media made me grind harder, and take it seriously. I am now a mother of 3, I have a beautiful family that I grind for. I am still doing makeup and going strong as ever. Through, the ups and downs, I never gave up. Makeup was my best friend growing up, it helped me cope with everything that I had going on mentally, physically, and emotionally. I only became stronger and wiser. So, from the bottom of my heart, I truly appreciate everyone who’s been there and showed tremendous support in my upbringing. Read more>>
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