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.
Justin Mayfield
Crux Construction offers consultation services, 3rd Party Inspections, and General Contracting services. With over 17 years of construction experience and 4 years of being a Building Inspector, we know how construction should be done. We take pride in building quality and safe structures. Our goal is to build homes and light commercial projects that will last! Read more>>
Jordan Turbyfill
One lunch with my employer I was offered a promotion. The very next day he called me first thing in the morning and said he no longer needed me. After this I knew I had to just start on my own so I designed my logo and got my business license. I took any and every job we could get our hands on to pay the bills and keep things moving. Mostly though I began to build my company in the direction that I felt would deliver superior results. There has been many ups and downs along the way but I see every loss as an opportunity to grow and learn from it. Read more>>
Johnny McGowan
One day I flipped a coin, Austin Tx or Atlanta GA. Everyone was moving to Austin to be the next big-time bluesman. Thousands of SRV clones waiting in the wings to take the throne. I had played in Atlanta some, it had a hip scene, and I knew my broken down VW Bus could make it there so I went there instead. You don’t know how many times I wished I could have just taken the lead and moved to Austin. Ya can’t go back, only forward. What is done is done. Read more>>
Amos Hobson
Nothing is smooth about being a no-funded artist trying to find your niche then grow a community around that. But nothing easy is ever appreciated. Realizing all places that allow you to sell art isnt for everyone. Theres racial based , class bias and medium bias between creatives so competition is stiff. Not including high scams when it comes to events and vendors used for your products. But those challanges helped me from being native when meeting new organizations. Read more>>
Natalie Sanders
Natalie organizes events that showcase ballroom culture, unite LGBTQIA+ individuals, and support queer Texans. In 2020, she was the first trans person to lead a march to the Texas Capitol for the Trans Pride & Black Lives Matter movement with 1,500 participants. The House of Lepore has been instrumental in introducing ballroom culture to the festival, making history with the first South by Southwest Ball in March 2021. When not performing or hosting, Natalie is a full-time social worker, aiding clients living with HIV. She has also taught dance classes at University of Texas. Read more>>
Paul Swope
It’s been a wild windy rollercoaster road traversing through heaven and hell all while the tank is on E. But somehow I’m still here and my music is progressing. I’ve hitch hiked to tour, slept in my car more nights than I can count, lived in mansions, shooks hands with some of the greatest artists of our time, taken unheard of risks which result in wild stories of triumph, heartbreak, loss, connection, magic, perspective, and massive paradigm shifts. I’ve turned down money while being completely broke, gotten paid handsomely for my failures, made nothing from my greatest artistic successes, and learned that at the end of the day, friendship is basically all that matters. Read more>>
Kenny Lipton
When it comes to investing in your health – the risk is often far less than not investing. I witnessed first-hand what can happen when you don’t do that during my time in the physical therapy world and it’s a very scary, sad place to be. Read more>>
Jensine Chavez
I was first introduced to the world of rehabilitation in high school after I hyperextended my back during a tennis serve. The athletic trainers helped me recover and get back on the court, and I was immediately drawn to that kind of care. I originally thought I’d pursue athletic training, but the long hours didn’t align with the future family life I dreamed of. So I looked into physical therapy and I was immediately hooked. I jumped into the Pre-Physical Therapy Organization my freshman year at Texas State University and never looked back. Read more>>
Alex Schoedler
I leaned on my engineering skills and technical drafting background and used 3D modeling software to design the nightstands first on the computer. I then used a CNC machine at a local non-profit workshop “Asmbly” to cut all of the parts from baltic birch panels. It was a lot like “Tetris” using the CNC machine, and I wound up having a few extra parts lying around when I was done the way it worked out, so I decided to build a few more nightstands to see how they might sell on Facebook Marketplace. Turns out other people wanted the nightstands also! Read more>>
Dana Mcknight
I think it would have been near impossible if I weren’t a working artist willing to get my hands dirty and didn’t know a bunch of extremely talented fabricators who understood the nature of the project and were extremely patient with our contractor payouts. In the end, we would not have gotten as far as we had/have without the extremely generous nature of our community and their equal understanding of what we were trying to do as well. Read more>>
Lauren Burton
Lola Tried started as a solo project without a name. I grew up playing in Austin, playing my first shows at places like Red Seven and Red Eyed Fly. When I started writing songs for this project, it was originally a solo project without any intention of doing anything serious. I met my now best friend Ray Garza, who helped me put a band together, and Lola Tried was born. We started playing more and more shows and gaining traction and eventually decided to take it on the road. We did 3 national tours before the pandemic hit. We released an EP in 2022 and made some lineup changes, and eventually added two new members–Austin Norman and Gianni Sarimento, and that’s where we are today! Read more>>
Jen Leddy Barnes
Using traditional goldsmithing techniques, I craft each piece with recycled precious metals and responsibly sourced stones, with a particular affection for vintage and antique diamonds. I specialize in custom work, heirloom redesigns, and limited small-batch collections. My style is modern and minimal, often featuring vintage and Art Deco-inspired details. Sustainability and craftsmanship are foundational to my work, and I strive to create jewelry that is not only beautiful, but meaningful—built with both history and future generations in mind. Read more>>
Shannon Rebecca
The first poem I remember being proud of I wrote in 6th grade. It was called Shy, and it started “I am a picture frame, holding everything inside.” It was the first time I wrote something where I felt I was able to express something about myself that I hadn’t otherwise known how to say. And I saw I could do it creatively; it felt like a puzzle I could put together—how can I put words to this feeling I have as accurately and succinctly as possible? Read more>>
Oshawa Hunt
After overcoming teen pregnancy, surviving domestic violence, and experiencing homelessness, I made a choice—I wasn’t going to let my past define me. I spent over two decades building a successful career as a Sales and Marketing Recruiter, but deep down, I knew I was called to do more than climb the corporate ladder. So, I retired from the grind and followed my true passion: helping others and creating content that matters. Read more>>
Marc Strong
But—and this is a big but—life in Washington, DC wasn’t exactly what you’d call family-friendly. I had a growing family and a shrinking sense of how I was going to provide the kind of life I wanted for them. Plus, I found myself craving more creativity. Sure, there were elements of creativity in my job, but it was mostly analytical—a very left-brained kind of role. I wanted something that let me use both sides of my brain. Read more>>
Kiko Rojas
The doubts and fears that came with starting my own business were a large obstacle that I’m now grateful for. To be on the other side and able to set my schedule, charge the rates which reflect my value, and work in the capacity I wish is a gift beyond measure. Read more>>
Southbound Echoes
Humor aside, there are some real challenges that come with trying to grow as a band today. There’s the constant pressure to not only make great music but also be your own marketing team, video editor, booking agent, merch designer, and social media content creator — all while holding down day jobs and trying not to burn out. It’s a grind. You’re competing in a world where attention spans are shorter than a TikTok loop, and you’ve got to find ways to break through that noise without losing your soul in the process. Read more>>
Beysul
After having to rediscover myself and start over, I slowly rebuilt my confidence, I posted you tube covers of me singing and playing ukulele that got thousands of views. I even recorded my first original song on my iPhone on garage band. I played it for my dad who reached out to our old neighbor in Dallas, who knows the infamous brother produces PlayNSkillz and they heard it. This was the start of me regaining hope of a music career and in 2019 I took a chance to pursue the idea of recording original music, a dream I had postponed due to depression, and met my very first producer, and started developing my artist persona “Beysul” Read more>>
Irina Gomez
That spark pushed me to take the next step in my journey and launch Ziler (www.zilersolutions.com)—an outsourcing company focused on helping organizations build their best teams nearshore. At Ziler, I get to combine everything I’ve learned from big tech and startup life to create something that truly makes a difference for our partners. Read more>>
Donna Gonzalez
From that moment on, I continued assisting at weddings and honing my skills in floral arrangements. Again, it wasn’t an easy path. But through it all, I remain truly grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. I also dedicated time to learning wedding styling, coordination, and planning—continuously sharpening my newfound talents and refining my expertise. Read more>>
Candace Silvers
20 years ago I was on Gaia TV, sharing about the beginnings of understanding the multidimensional world. And about six years ago, I filmed another couple of episodes on Gaia speaking about healing energy. The world had finally caught up to the possibility of energy medicine. But the multidimensional world still seems to be taboo. Read more>>
Geoffrey Herd
ATX Chamber Music and Jazz combines performances by world-class artists with social experiences. Some examples include a performance by pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet with a luxurious Parisian wine bar and high-end burgundy tasting. A solo piano recital by jazz virtuoso Hiromi with a whiskey tasting of rare whiskeys sponsored by Suntory and sushi dinner by the exclusive Tsuke Edomae omakase restaurant. A Chinese cultural fair paired with performance by the Brentano Quartet of contemporary Chinese composers. Read more>>
Priscilla
My journey hasn’t followed a straight line. Like many women of color, I had to carve out my own lane. Early on, I realized that traditional paths didn’t always make room for people like me. So I built my own table, brought my own chair, and invited others to sit with me. Starting my first small business as a young single mom brought a lot of challenges to overcome. But the challenge birthed a strong tenacity in me and that’s been my blueprint ever since: be tenacious, stay creative, stay resourceful, and never wait for permission. Read more>>
Gabby Gerstner
I’ve always led with creativity. But in today’s world, running a business means wearing a dozen hats. With AI, I don’t have to choose between quality and capacity. I can be the director, the writer, the editor, the strategist — and still show up with consistency and heart. Read more>>
Hanna Comeaux
After years of gaining experience, I took the leap of faith and decided to start my own business. I finally opened Florals By Hanna in 2024 and have loved every minute of this journey! After facing many challenges of finding a career path that was right for me, I realized that my true calling was to be a floral designer. I have always seen myself in a creative career. What started as a small hobby while working a full time job, turned into a passion. Now, I get to do what I love every day! I love wedding floral design and assisting couples to achieve their ultimate dream day. I am a dedicated perfectionist who believes in transforming simple flowers into breathtaking arrangements that evoke emotions and tell a story. Read more>>
Ashley Morehead
It’s like it was meant to be. The biggest struggle has been learning the business side to all of this. Emailing, invoicing, contracts, scheduling, it takes a toll on you and it’s extremely overwhelming! I am so thankful John and I are doing this together and I have someone to help with every step. Read more>>
Jerry Garcia
The Coen Brothers weren’t the only ones that influenced me, there were others such as Martin Scorsese. His films Taxi Driver, Ranger Bull and Casino inspired me to get my foot into the door of cinema. After graduating from college in my hometown in Laredo, I moved to San Antonio to attend The Art Institute in 2016. In my last year there I made my first short film Betrayal, a crime drama about a brother saving his sister from gangsters. The film was played in over 20 film festivals and won over 23 awards including Best Crime Short and Best Original Screenplay. Read more>>
Sally Lineback
After finishing undergrad, I spent five years working in education in Mississippi—first as an elementary school teacher, and later doing fundraising for an educational nonprofit. Outside of work, life felt full. I was in a loving relationship with the woman I would later marry, and surrounded by a strong circle of friends. But professionally, something was missing. I felt unfulfilled, and honestly a little stuck. Read more>>
Aramis Ferrer
I moved from Houston to Austin in 2022 for the following reasons: I fell in love with this vibrant city, full of life, a music and art scene, and a student atmosphere. Additionally, its natural landscapes, such as the Colorado River and Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and other parks, offer the perfect opportunity for outdoor recreation, such as kayaking, hiking, and biking. Read more>>
JustHannah
I moved to Texas when I was on the cusp of 25 years old after I fell in love with a banjo player who was moving to Central Texas from San Francisco. I made the bold move to follow along. I considered myself retired from music but found myself among a really neat group of musicians and artists – many of whom had been close friends with greats like Towns Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, Richard Dobson, Rick Dinsmore and more. They have shared their legacies with me and gave me the home and friendship I so needed. I started learning new songs and writing my own original music simply so I had something to play in the picking circles with friends. Read more>>
Matt Ryan
It has certainly had its ups and downs. Obviously the pandemic was a hugely destabilizing event for business owners and freelancers. But we’ve persevered due to our wide ranging skills. We’re not just freelance artists and producers, but business owners and project managers. And while some may balk at working with your spouse, we view it as an asset. We work well as partners in everything, including raising a 5 year old daughter. Read more>>
Julian Kennedy
I’m especially interested in working with the human skeleton. There’s something really striking about the skull—it’s one of the most recognizable and iconic symbols in art history. I see it less as something dark and more as a way to reflect on time, memory, and what we leave behind. It’s been used for centuries to symbolize things bigger than ourselves, and I like tapping into that tradition while also giving it my own voice. Read more>>
Uncle Roy & Spice
Once we went on to college we stayed connected, and continued to sing together any time we could. Spice moved to Texas in 2018, and in 2019 when she joined Austin band Sir Woman, Uncle Roy moved to Texas the following week to join the band with her. After years of performing together with multiple artists, a close friend asked us what it would take for us to do our own thing, and at that moment we looked at each other and wondered the same thing! From that moment forward we’ve been a duo, writing music and performing together any time we can. And it’s been so much fun! Read more>>
Diana Lane
That being said, she couldn’t have been any happier when I decided to join the dance team and cheer in the following years of my short lived wrestling career. I feel really fortunate to have had opportunities provided for me that my mom never had- she really moved mountains to see and support my success through sports, school, summer band and so much more. Read more>>
Sara Atikune
Along my path I encountered many more tools and modalities. I explored traditional therapies and more alternative and energetic therapies. Throughout my explorations, I discovered repressed memories of my own disturbing childhood abuse. It was then that I realized that energies can be trapped inside of our bodies and energetic layers, with no conscious awareness or memory. It was a long process to face all that was hidden within me, and I was determined to find every tool I could, to help people move through their challenges and blockages, in hopefully a quicker way, with support. Read more>>
Mela Sarajane Dailey
Today, I am a Grammy Award-winning soprano, radio host, event producer, and CEO of both Merick Strategies and the American Artists Project (AAP)—a nonprofit I founded to replicate the kind of life-changing support I once received. AAP creates opportunities for underrepresented artists, funds arts education initiatives, and brings performances to communities that need them most. Programs like Variations, the Greg Easley-Bryant Young Artist Program, Broadway Brunch, Sing Joy, FreeSoul, and Somos are all about opening doors. Read more>>
Raechal Martin
That desire came to life in 2018 when I experienced Electrons Plus—a guided PEMF modality—for the first time. It was a moment of transformation. I felt an internal shift I couldn’t ignore. I saw how this technology could accelerate healing and restore balance in ways I hadn’t experienced before. When I tried to bring the device into the college setting, I was met with resistance. That “no” became a redirection—and the catalyst for stepping into something bigger. Read more>>
Jennifer McNichols
Back in 2020, I saw a rise in artisan earrings made from vintage tins, and loved the marriage of craftsmanship and the repurposing of found materials. I had also noticed that the use of high-quality, creative graphics was increasing in the Austin craft beer scene — to this day, there’s still no other scene quite like it — and wondered if there was a way to repurpose aluminum cans along the same lines, to create jewelry with more contemporary and dynamic graphics at a more affordable price point that could then be produced in larger batches. Read more>>
Stephen Ellis
I’ve spent over a decade in the events industry, I’ve been DJing since I was 18, and I still get goosebumps every time I see a couple’s first dance, a family reunion singalong, or a room full of friends belting out their favorite anthem. I truly believe that music is the glue that binds us together, and there’s no better feeling than helping people create new core memories—especially when those memories are set to the perfect soundtrack. Read more>>
Thembekile Dube
My journey began with my hair. At just five years old, I received my first chemical relaxer — not by choice, but because that was the standard: straight hair was considered “better,” “easier to manage.” That became my norm. Then, when I was twelve, my father came home and told my sister and me that we would no longer be getting relaxers. He had discovered that the same chemicals found in Drano were in the products we were putting on our scalps. Read more>>
Isabel Meijering
Another big piece of the journey was learning to trust myself fully. When I shifted careers, there were plenty of opinions from others. And the truth is, I don’t rely heavily on logic when making decisions. I move through life intuitively, and from the outside, that can sometimes look a little chaotic. But I’ve learned to tune out the noise and only take in feedback from those who truly understand the path I’m walking. It’s not about who’s right or wrong; it’s just that not all perspectives are helpful, and at the end of the day, the confidence has to come from within. Read more>>
Brian T Wagner
That mix of creative work and technical background made social media marketing feel like a natural extension. I built the @AustinCurated Instagram account from scratch and grew it to a significant following in under a year. It taught me how to read the room, identify emerging trends before they hit, and guide content that actually lands. After that, I shifted focus to working with businesses and clients directly, helping them scale with fast-launch digital tools. Read more>>
Taylor Amstey
The story of Love Lamp Matcha begins back in 2018, when my husband and I started taking pottery classes together. Over the years, those classes became harder to get into, with fewer open-studio hours and limited availability. By January 2023, we started dreaming about what it would be like to have our own studio space. We also began imagining what it could look like to combine it with another passion of mine: opening a matcha shop inside the space. Read more>>
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