Portraits of Michigan

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 KC.

Tangela Dortch

I am known for being a make up artist and doing lashes as in lash clusters I love being a makeup artist. I am most proud of how strong my faith is and how consistent I am with my business when it comes to restocking products and getting flyers posted for clients. I can go on and on about a lot of things that I’m proud of when it comes to Arts Of She Studio but the consistency is the main one. What set me apart from others is that I’m genuine. I want of a kind. I’m rare. I come with no hidden agendas. You get what you see.. Read More>>

Nichole Haywood

My own healing and recovery journey underscored the importance of creating a welcoming space for those who find me through my website or social media platforms. I wanted to offer a haven where individuals could feel comfortable sharing their stories and exploring their inner power. This journey has been incredibly fulfilling, and I am grateful for the opportunity to help others discover their unique strengths, beauty, and the love that surrounds them. Read More>>

Juli Smith

I fell in love with drawing the first time I opened a box of Crayola Crayons. I started drawing and painting at a young age. I was admitted to a special program in Junior High that was normally reserved for High School students call the Creative Arts Program in Fargo, ND led by nationally-renowned sculptor and painter, Catherin Mulligan. We were exposed to all mediums from sculpture to photography but my medium of choice was drawing and painting. We hung our own exhibitions and participated in workshops led by professional artists across mediums so the exposure to art at a very high level was amazing for young people. Read More>>

Lacy Jewell

On Tiktok, I am known for creating journal and lifestyle content. In 2025, I have found a love for “junk journaling.” Junk journaling is essentially collecting tangible memories from day-to-day live and sticking them into a journal. I have always been a sentimental person who loves to save things so this has been such a natural art for me to start doing. Read More>>

Adam Bonner

As a specialist in hound dogs—one of the most independent and misunderstood breed-types—I don’t believe in force or quick-fix solutions. Instead, I focus on trust, communication, and positive reinforcement to unlock each dog’s potential. Where others see stubbornness, I see a dog that needs to be understood. Where frustration builds, I bring clarity, showing owners how subtle shifts in their own approach can transform their dog’s behavior. Read More>>

Mike Skyring

I started out running the business daily by myself , financial side, baking side, dough prep, customer service, business management, you name it, I was a one man stop. I did this for about 4 months, because I didn’t want to bring in employees, and have the business not work out, it was a tough decision. It was a struggle, and it took a toll on my mental state for sure. Read More>>

Sabrina Strong

Unfortunately due to that I lost my job and had a very hard time finding a new one that would stick and make me happy. After a lot of fails in trying to get a new job I turned to my love of art and started designing tattoos and sold them when I could and was also selling jewelry on the side. I give so much thanks to my Husband (Josh) who pushed me to become a tattoo artist and really work and do what I love. I then started to learn and practice tattoos and then became a tattoo artist at the end of the pandemic. Sense then I have been doing everything I can to continue to grow my artistic abilities and my tattooing business. Read More>>

Dave Weber

The next year 4 years it doubled every year and in 2012 I decided to have an official website made and purchased more gear for customer rental demands and in 2015 I was able to quit my day job and do Gear To Go Rentals full time. In 2017 I added DJ services and worked with DJ Ricky T for 5yrs and now currently have DJ Robbie G as my DJ with DJ Manny Stiles on backup for days with multiple DJ events. On October 1st 2024 I purchased and Sound Environments, the big local sound company in town. I’m currently in the process of merging Gear To Go Rentals, LLC and Sound Environments LLC. Read More>>

Broderick Bebout

The company I worked for decided to stay fully virtual, and after struggling to adapt to the new remote setup, we agreed to part ways. At first, I thought I’d return to a more traditional corporate job, but my wife encouraged me to pursue the path of art full time and see where it might lead. So, I started participating in art fairs and shows, posted more frequently online, and opened up my own little business. Read More>>

Patrick & Lucas Stoffel

Fox Naturals began as a passion project, but the dream of running our own business was always there—especially for Patrick, who knew from a young age that he wanted to create something of his own. The inspiration stemmed from a mix of influences: a sense of entrepreneurship, an appreciation for the folklore of plants and herbs (passed down from his grandmother), and a desire to craft products suited for sensitive skin. What started with making bars of soap at home soon evolved into a full range of botanical body care and custom perfumes. Read More>>

Asia Boyd

What set AB Level Up LLC training programs apart from other basketball training programs is our consistency, attention to detail, age ranged training groups and our high level sports backgrounds. All of our trainers are former basketball players with trainers background ranging from high school champions to international champions. We are also the first Woman Led basketball training company in Michigan. Read More>>

Sandi Fortenbacher

We bought a Laser and customize gift packages. These are mainly geared toward the Real Estate industry as we promise customization within 3 days instead of 3 weeks like Pinterest, but could be used for any gift occasion that you want to make special by personalizing. Our sales continue to grow as we enter our second year. Between my Real Estate business, A Thoughtful Thank You and helping my husband with his two businesses, trying to spend time with our 5 grandchildren, I keep myself pretty busy. I am so incredibly blessed. Read More>>

Maiya Legardye

The venue has gone through several evolutions, relocating multiple times but always providing a platform for artists and a gathering place for the community. After a brief closure, Flint Local 432 was revived under the umbrella of Factory Two. Today, we remain dedicated to supporting musicians, artists, and young creatives by hosting concerts, workshops, and community events that celebrate Flint’s DIY spirit. Read More>>

Ana Uddin

I grew up in Detroit, surrounded by a melting pot of culture and food. My parents immigrated to the US from Bangladesh in the 80s. They started their family in New Jersey, then relocated us to Michigan when I was a toddler, and I’ve been here ever since. I love Detroit and I think my passion for creativity, food and the arts was shaped by the environment I grew up in. From a young age, I was immersed in diverse flavors, traditions, and ways of storytelling, all of which left a lasting impact on me. Read More>>

August Familant

My journey started in a small-town popcorn shop, where I worked throughout high school and early college. The shop was run by a married couple who had a real passion for what they did, and being part of that environment made me fall in love with leadership, business ownership, and the impact a business can have on a community. That’s when I realized—my biggest dream was to build something of my own. Read More>>

Ashley Schafer

My journey to this role has been shaped by more than a decade of experience in retail, restaurant groups, nonprofits, and health and wellness services. From managing product launches and marketing campaigns to curating events that drive community engagement, I’ve has built a reputation for strategic innovation and collaboration. My expertise in social media marketing, budget management, and business development has allowed me to create impactful programs that elevate both brands and communities. Read More>>

Cierra Anderson

I knew I would never make it to class on time while facing rush hour traffic, but God opened a door for me in 2021. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, my job allowed us to work remotely for almost 3 years, giving me the opportunity to attend cosmetology school. I graduated from L’esprit Academy and received my license all before going back to work in the office. I was even blessed financially to pay for my tuition without needing student loans. Through hard work, dedication, and most importantly, faith, I became a business owner, makeup artist, and nail technician. Read More>>

Tl Shively

I have been writing young adult fantasy books for over twenty-five years and published my first one in 2016. I started with an independent publisher who introduced me to a writing community I never knew existed. I stayed with the publisher for a few years before I parted ways with them. During my time with the publisher, I met many independent authors who helped me transition from working with a publisher to being an independent author. Read More>>

Tytiana Steele

I started as a Video Production Intern at DPTV, a Graphic Design Intern at Woodward Original, and then I had my “big break” into the film industry as an Art Department Assistant for the feature film Sextuplets with Marlon Wayans, produced by Wayans Alvarez Productions (2018), and the TV series Queen of the South Season 4 on USA Network and Netflix (2019). After returning to Detroit from filming Queen of the South in New Orleans for six months, I continued my film career as a Set Decorator and Production Designer for commercials, feature films, photography, and advertisement promos. Read More>>

Nicole Saleh

I feel most proud when people notice that a space was designed by Mavella Home because there is a consistency with the aesthetic of the brand, and that is what sets us apart from others. I’m also very proud of the relationships that I have built with my clients. I appreciate all of the referrals because it highlights their trust in me, and I do not take that for granted. I understand that designing someone’s home is a privilege and that is not lost on me. Read More>>

Tiffany Roy

So far, running this business has been a smooth experience, but like any venture, it comes with its ups and downs. Every day presents new learning opportunities as policies and laws continue to evolve. While I’ve adapted well to working with these changes, my biggest challenges lie in increasing awareness about my business and building strong community connections. Many people tend to overlook notary services, often due to pricing perceptions, despite the fact that they are in high demand. Read More>>

Portia Powell

I experienced growth at a young age and had reached management by the time I was 21. My biggest challenge was proving myself to an older generation of people that questioned me because of my age. I have always led with my work ethic and let my results shine. I also was a young mom and as I was trying to grow professionally I also had a developing daughter and had to develop relationships and a career path that allowed me the flexibility to be a great mom. Overtime I built rapport with my organizations who recognized my daughter as an extension of me and she has been embedded in my journey of growth. Read More>>

Livvy Tubergen

It was only by my Lord and Savior leading me, and my father’s guidance, that allowed to me to start The Boutique Gardener (at the tender age of 15). I couldn’t believe that at the age of 15, this dream was becoming a reality. At age 16, I graduated high school and also went to cosmetology school. Planting flowers for my customers was a way to work while learning to do hair. Doing hair is a passion of mine as well. So, if I’m not out digging in the dirt, you will find me in my salon doing hair! Read More>>

Melanie Mciver

I got started in 2014. I started baking because I was out of work and already cooked a lot so I decided to see if I could make pounds cakes so that’s what I did. I started making a Superman pound cake which became a huge hit. Then I went on to do cakes and my favorite cake to make is a Strawberry Crunch Cake. Let me tell you it was not easy in the beginning but I got thru my errors and made my business official in 2018. And since then I have grown and love my growth. I bake for a lot of River Rouge School functions and have a good clientele that love my cakes and also me. I can only thank God because I was lost for a second and he blessed me with this skill to make cakes and I love what I do. Read More>>

Charlie Castañeda

At that time, on October of 2024, I had 10 subscribers on YouTube, and with a stroke of luck and a prayer, that’s when my Historical facts about Presidents started to pick up and getting noticed. My channel grew and grew, my audience were tuned in, my dream is about to come true soon in 2025. I would love to make more shorts and posts on YouTube and Instagram. I want to Travel the country, and the world for my love of history, learn more from books, maybe finish college, (we’ll see) Read More>>

Kathleen Fox

I founded Modern Day Snow White, LLC in 2022 after relocating to Michigan with my husband and two kids. With a background in logistics and finance, I was looking for a change after the pandemic, and I decided to pursue a path that aligned more closely with my passions. Growing up in a suburb of Atlanta, I was the go-to kid in the neighborhood for pet care, and I’ve always had a deep love for animals. I was even given the nickname “Snow White,” which stuck with me over the years. Read More>>

Bailey Ritter

Expanding from there I tried my hand in senior photos and family sessions. I like getting to work one on one with people for senior photos and getting to know them better. Also like getting to see how families interact and capturing their little moments. Then I got asked to take my brother engagement photos and absolutely loved how they turned out. Within the last couple years I have been hardcore in love with concert photography! I have gotten to photograph David Kushner, ROSIE, Morgan Wade, Cameron Whitcomb, and more. Last year i actually got in contact with my lifeline favorite band after their concert and sold them one of my photos, definitely my proudest photography moment Read More>>

Robert Bannon

See, I am an artist and growing up one mile from NYC meant that all the art was around me 24-7. I host an online talk show for Broadway World, Broadway Podcast Network, and on YouTube called The Roundtable with Robert Bannon. Being close to NY let me slip into the city for Broadway, Concerts, and events. It gave me access to that world, but it was also non-stop. It was a calendar filled with red carpets, interviews, and work. There was no balance. I longed to keep working hard, but to find a life as well. Read More>>

Adrianna Novak

I have so enjoyed the growth of my little side gig and have loved seeing it develop into what it is today. Although I am not super well known I hope to see more growth in my business in the years to come. I started out taking mainly family and extended family photos all over the Holland and West Michigan area but have now started doing more weddings, which I have enjoyed so much. Although I am not a LLC yet, I am excited to expanded and step into that soon! I thrive off of the community of Holland and surrounding communities getting my name out there and passing my business along to their friends, family, and co-workers. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my clients and their help. Read More>>

Monique Marshall

I then evolved into hosting events and pop-up shops so that I and others could have a place to showcase our brands. Swanky Lady Couture has been all over the country and its always fun to see the response when interacting with the public. Today, I am moving away from clothing and accessories and getting more into decor and event management. A few years ago, I became certified in holistic health, so my events have a self-care aspect. While I will always love fashion, I am more in tune with the need for healing and bringing forth products and services that allow people to feel empowered to heal themselves. My events celebrate our lives and welcome those who are willing to look at themselves in totality: mind, body and spirit. Read More>>

Rebecca Stephens

After trying many methods, I discovered aromatherapy, and it was life-changing. The calming effects of Patchouli and Bergamot helped soothe my anxious mind and bring some peace to my emotions. It felt like a lifeline, and for the first time in years, I found a tool that brought me relief. It was a sign to me that I had to learn more. I decided to become a Certified Aromatherapist, determined to share this healing tool with others. I opened an apothecary in Holland, Michigan, with the hope of helping people in the same way I had found relief. Read More>>

Marisol Esquivel

I was raised by my Grandmother Inez which is now My mom and we didn’t have much but she did the best she could she had friends from Church that taught me so many skills from work ethic to creativity. I started at a young age to knit, crocheting and sow as well to making Bracelets and pottery as well painting .trust me I’m not an experience painter neither “lol” but love to craft things and making things so beautiful is something I love to share and do.  Read More>>

Stephanie Parshall

Additionally, stepping into the luxury wedding market has meant refining my brand, elevating my client experience, and ensuring that my work reflects the level of service high-end couples expect. It’s been a journey of continuous growth, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything—because at the end of the day, I get to do what I love: capture love stories in a way that’s meaningful and lasting. Read More>>

Indigo Grigsby

One of the most frustrating things in content creation is the algorithm on social medias such as TikTok and Instagram. Your follower count does not determine your views, the algorithm does. At times you will make something you’re proud of and know your audience would love, but the algorithm doesn’t pick it up, and you just have to try again another time. Read More>>

Zahraa Alrafish

I am Zahraa Alrafish, the founder of Arab Women United, a movement built from the belief that women, no matter their background, deserve a voice, a space, and the power to shape their own future. As an Iraqi Arab American and first-generation immigrant, I have witnessed the struggles women in my community face barriers to education, financial independence, and leadership. Instead of waiting for change, I decided to create it. Read More>>

Sotir Davidhi

After finishing my eighth grade, which was the end of compulsory education at that time, I participated in two art competitions in order to continue my education at the Art Liceum (a high school specializing in fine art). I graduated from the Art Liceum in Albania with a diploma in fine art painting and theatrical set design. After working as a surviving artist in Albania and Greece, I came to the United States and many years later I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in fine art from Aquinas College. My international journey, life experiences, and education became the cornerstone of my artist career. Read More>>

Lindsey Westfield

A good friend I had taught me a lot when I first got started and she pushed me to take my creativity to the next level. We often would practice taking portraits of eachother or even just nature and city pictures, and then go through the process of editing those photos and turning them into what would be delivered to a client. She really showed me that it was possible to learn something new all the time in this industry and to push myself to strive for more. Read More>>

Bill Welter

Following in my family’s footsteps, I decided to take my own leap of faith. I had been a D1 golf player and had spent time in St. Andrews, Scotland, which is considered the home of golf, but it was there where I really grew an appreciation for great whiskey. In 2010, my wife Johanna and I opened Journeyman Distillery. We wanted to create something special while staying true to the values and work ethic I learned growing up. Read More>>

Asiel Elian Amanda Afr

What began as a two-person operation soon grew to a team of four, then six, prompting us to move to a larger location with better exposure. Today, we’ve transformed into a full-service medical spa, with 15 employees and a wide range of offerings. Overseen by a physician, our team includes estheticians, doctors, nurses, lash and tattoo artists, and even a small blow-dry bar in the front. We’ve become a local one-stop shop for all things health and beauty. Read More>>

Jamison Borden

My track journey was not going super well at the time as I kept dealing with different injuries. As much as I am someone who likes to push through adversity, after a few months of the injuries persisting, I decided to stop running for the track club. During my search for video equipment, however, I got some video recommendations on how to make money with a camera. By the fall of 2022, I bought a course on filmmaking and began to work through all of the content within in. By November of 2022, I bought my first camera, lens, and lighting equipment to start putting my knowledge to use. Read More>>

Kalynn Tabron

My mom told me to take pictures of things that bring me peace, things that are beautiful to me. And unexpectedly, I found that by photographing couples that are deeply immersed in their love. Witnessing their tender moments, their shared glances, and the unspoken poetry between them sparked something within me. It was then that I discovered a new way to find peace in beautiful moments and beautiful people—the art of wedding photography. The notion of freezing those intimate and fleeting moments resonated deeply within me. Read More>>

Janee’ Beville

While in high school, I took a Psychology class as a junior and was intrigued about the brain and how behaviors are shaped. I knew very quickly that I wanted to be a therapist; I wanted to help people find understanding and healing by giving them the space to be heard. I hadn’t personally experienced therapy at that time and desired to have a therapist so that I could be heard. I was naturally quiet, so I often felt overlooked and not listened to. I also understand now that I may have struggled with anxiety from a young age as well. Even though I was known as a quiet and shy person and asked “how can you be a therapist when you don’t talk?”, I knew it was what I wanted to do. So I went for it! Read More>>

Kiera Estelle

Kiera Estelle’s journey has been one of resilience and faith. As a young woman navigating her 20s, she has faced financial hardships, balancing the demands of being a full-time college student, a published model, and a budding makeup artist—all while lacking reliable transportation. For years, she relied on her determination and resourcefulness to make it to shows, jobs, and classes. Read More>>