Highlighting Local Gems

Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below – many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.

Hayley Davies

Outside of work, I’ve been really enjoying reading and listening to audiobooks. I’m especially into thrillers and murder mysteries. My favorite author right now is Freida McFadden. Her stories always keep me hooked, whether I’m unwinding after work or listening while getting things done around the house. Read more>>

Karmello Drip

You have to pay to play aka invest in yourself. Noone is going to just give you stuff for free off the jump unless you have a undeniable unique talent. There’s plenty of other gifted, talent hardworking people but because their mindset isn’t thinking about the business side. They feel entitled or obligated for services. Assuming your going to get nonstop support is unrealistic. Read more>>

Melissa Del Toro Schaffner

Recently, I had the privilege of being cast alongside my 9 year old daughter, Indi, in the brand new audio drama “Cerulean Summer” by Keiko at MLA Entertainment. Voice acting is my dream, not my daughter’s. But, when I asked her if she’d be interested in auditioning for 10 year old Charlotte in Cerulean Summer, she was genuinely interested. Read more>>

Lindsy Posz

I think therapy and tattoos can cost about the same. But sometimes people don’t want to be fixed. Sometimes people don’t want advice or a solution. They might even know the answer and just want to be heard. As a fixer, this job has taught me how to shut the fuck up and LISTEN. Read more>>

emmanuella Igboanugo

When I wake up, I begin my day with a short prayer for myself and my children. I then prepare breakfast for my daughter before she heads to school. Once she’s been dropped off, I return home to spend quality time with my 7-month-old son before starting my workday at 11 a.m., when I open my home to begin taking orders from customers. Read more>>

Shainit Agrawal

Early in life, I realized that negotiation was something I had always avoided; it used to make me anxious, whether in personal or professional situations. Over time, however, my journey at Car Concierge Pro taught me the importance of embracing negotiation as a skill, not a challenge. Read more>>

Jessica McCann

Literature, when it’s at its best, reflects humanity. It’s part of the reason why the “books like us” and “we need diverse books” movement has gained so much traction in recent years. The fact is, long before words like diversity and inclusivity became part of our daily language, our communities have always been diverse. What’s more, diversity goes beyond race, ethnicity, religion, and gender identity. Read more>>