Welcome to the Rocky Garza show, where we explore the collision of a deeply meaningful life and a wildly impactful career. Rocky Garza, a trusted speaker, coach, and consultant with over a decade of experience to many Fortune 500 companies, shares personal stories and expert advice to guide listeners to clarity, confidence and embrace their vulnerabilities. Whether you're a high achiever looking for a more full life or a leader, striving for professional success with purpose, this podcast was designed with you in mind.
For more information on Rocky and his work visit www.rockygarza.com
Welcome to the Rocky Garza show, where we explore the collision of a deeply meaningful life and a wildly impactful career. Rocky Garza, a trusted speaker, coach, and consultant with over a decade of experience to many Fortune 500 companies, shares personal stories and expert advice to guide listeners to clarity, confidence and embrace their vulnerabilities. Whether you're a high achiever looking for a more full life or a leader, striving for professional success with purpose, this podcast was designed with you in mind.
For more information on Rocky and his work visit www.rockygarza.com
In this episode, Rocky sits down with entrepreneur and designer Matt Marciante for a raw conversation about ambition, pride, and the hidden costs of doing everything alone. They unpack the underdog identity, why survival mode eventually breaks down, and what it really takes to build something sustainable. This episode challenges the idea that struggle equals success and invites leaders to rethink how they win.
Episode Highlights:
. Why the underdog mindset can quietly give us an excuse to lose.
. The difference between surviving and actually competing to win.
. How pride can disguise itself as loyalty, grit, or self-reliance.
. Why building with “scrappy” teams eventually raises the personal cost.
. Letting go of doing everything yourself without losing your edge.
. Learning to ask for help and trusting both yes and no as valid answers.
. Shifting from proving you can to building something that lasts.
Get To Know Our Guest:
Matt Marciante is an entrepreneur, leather maker, and designer who builds products and brands with the same philosophy: quality first, no unnecessary noise. Through Marciante and Company and Mission Leather Co, he designs and produces handcrafted leather goods rooted in timeless design, ethical sourcing, and practical function. As the founder of Pretty Decent Marketing, he brings that same hands-on mindset to marketing...creating clear, honest systems that turn attention into sales without the fluff. His work helps brands, creators, and small businesses grow through thoughtful design, strong storytelling, and marketing that actually works.
Resources Mentioned. Pretty Decent Marketing - https://prettydecent.site/.
Marciante & Company - https://marcianteandco.com/.
Mission Leather Co - https://missionleatherco.com/.
Join Rocky’s Live Leadership Training - https://www.rockygarza.com/confidence
In this candid conversation, Rocky and Temi unpack the unseen emotional weight many fathers and creatives carry but rarely name out loud. From dad guilt to under-belief to the pressure to be everything for everyone, Temi opens up about the internal battles shaping his identity as a husband, father, and artist. This episode invites listeners to reflect on what they’re chasing, what they’re avoiding, and what it really means to be human. A powerful dialogue for anyone navigating responsibility, creativity, and self-worth.
Episode Highlights:
Why many fathers feel Dad guilt but struggle to talk about it openly. . How overthinking often masks deeper patterns of under-belief. . The tension between being needed and being wanted in marriage and parenting. . The danger of defining your worth by being “the problem-solver.” . How comparison steals joy from creative and family life. . Rewriting internal soundtracks and choosing human things over hard things. . The power of trusting the people who actually love you. . Seeing yourself as complete today, not someone who needs to be fixed tomorrow.
Get To Know Our Guest:
Temi Coker is a Designer and Art Director who layers his Nigerian heritage through bold colors, patterns, dimensions, and textures. He creates powerful visual experiences through wearable art, art prints, and creative campaigns that help people feel seen, connected, and represented. His work challenges beauty standards and reflects a growing cultural movement. His mission is to make space for every person to discover their creative voice.
Website: www.temicoker.co | shop.temicoker.co
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/temiloluwacoker/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/temi.coker/?hl=en
Resources Mentioned:
Soundtracks by Jon Acuff.
Temi Coker – www.temicoker.co.
Temi’s Shop – shop.temicoker.co
Join Rocky for a live leadership training at the end of the month by RSVPing at rockygarza.com/confident.
Short Summary:
In this conversation, Rocky and clothing designer Crespatrick de los Reyes explore the tension between creativity, obedience, and the pressure to “make it” on someone else’s timeline. This episode digs into the lies creatives believe about success and the fear of losing themselves in the pursuit of profit. If you've ever wondered whether you can honor your craft without sacrificing your humanity, this one will hit home.
Episode Highlights:
Why timelines aren’t the real enemy...our stories about them are.. The difference between protecting your creativity and propelling your creativity.. How comparison and rushing quietly sabotage the creative process.. The human thing vs. the hard thing: a new way to navigate responsibility.. Why obedience, peace, and purpose may be the gateway to true profitability.. The lie most creatives believe when facing financial pressure.. What changes when you stop selling yourself short and start telling the truth.
Get To Know Our Guest:
Crespatrick de los Reyes is a Filipino American clothing designer specializing in upcycling denim fabrics to create collections for his brand Crescente Patricio. Having graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, Crespatrick's journey has taken him through various parts of the fashion industry to eventually lead him to designing for a denim start up which paved the way for starting his brand in 2017. By way of Los Angeles, Crespatrick and his brand are now based out of Dallas, TX where the brand has really found its roots. Crespatrick draws inspiration from his Filipino American heritage to tell stories through his pieces that are designed to feel Different yet Familiar.
Websites: www.cpatricio.com | www.crespatrick.com
Social: @crespatrick_dlr @crescente.patricio
Resources Mentioned . Join Rocky for the Live Leadership Training – https://www.rockygarza.com/confident
Helen Morrison on Leading with Love and Legacy
When you step into a fifth-generation business, change takes courage—and heart. In this episode, newly appointed Frownies President and CEO Helen Morrison joins Rocky to talk about leadership, legacy, and what it means to rebuild culture from the inside out. This conversation explores how love, authenticity, and consistency can transform the way we lead.
Episode Highlights
. Why leadership starts with service, not status.
. How Helen is redefining success as Frownies’ new CEO.
. The power of believing in yourself when no one else does.
. Breaking old patterns and “questioning the unquestionable” in legacy businesses.
. How positive self-talk and gratitude fuel confidence.
. Why building people always builds the business.
Get To Know Our Guest
Helen Morrison is a devoted wife and mom of two, a longtime yoga instructor, and the proud torchbearer of a five-generation family legacy at Frownies. She has spent the past several years shaping the creative vision of the brand as its content creator, branding director, and face of the company. In September 2025, Helen was appointed President and CEO, carrying forward Frownies’ 130+ year history into a new era of growth and innovation.
Her 17 years of experience as a yoga instructor reflect her deep commitment to health and wellness, a passion that runs through every aspect of her life. That same dedication drives her leadership at Frownies, where she builds on the company’s legacy while steering it toward innovation and growth for the future.
At the heart of Helen’s work is her true calling: encouraging and uplifting others. With warmth and authenticity, she strives to instill love, confidence, and a sense of community. Her journey transcends building a successful brand; it’s about leaving a positive impact on the lives of those she touches.
. Frownies Website – http://frownies.com
. Frownies Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/frownies
. Helen's Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/helenkmorrison
. Frownies TikTok & Shop – https://www.tiktok.com/@frowniesfamily
Resources Mentioned
. Join Rocky’s Live Leadership Training – https://www.rockygarza.com/confident
What if being the hero is what’s burning you out—and being human is what sets you free? Rocky and event planner Hunter Orcutt unpack the tension of business, marriage, and motherhood, and why “best” is a trap while “truest” is a path. This conversation matters if you lead others, carry high expectations, or feel stuck in people-pleasing cycles. Listen in to reframe confidence, hard conversations, and the next 12 months of your life.
Episode Highlights
. Replace best with truest to escape perfectionism and show up as yourself.
. Confidence is the belief something is good; certainty is outcome-obsessed.
. Human beats hero: service without self-erasure.
. Time triage for leaders who are also partners and parents.
. Let them—and then learn to let you for the next 12 months.
. How to have hard conversations and resist performative follow-ups.
. Reframing guilt loops around texts, emails, and admin overwhelm.
. Parenting as proof: your kids often see “best” when you live “truest.”
Get To Know Our Guest
Hunter Orcutt is the founder of Hunter Orcutt Events, a leading event-planning company known for creating intentional, elegant, and deeply personal celebrations. As an entrepreneur, wife, and mother, Hunter’s life reflects resilience, faith, and grace. Her journey has shaped her heart for helping others hold on to hope. She believes that no matter how hard the season, everything is going to be okay.
Website: hunterorcutt.co
Business Instagram: @hunterorcuttevents
Personal Instagram: @theorcutts
Resources Mentioned
. Join Rocky’s Live Leadership Training – https://www.rockygarza.com/confidence
. Mel Robbins – https://melrobbins.com
Why This Conversation Matters
In this episode, Rocky and Najee Ward get honest about the ache between clarity and reality—the space where ambition meets responsibility. They explore how to pursue fulfillment, purpose, and impact without turning urgency into an emergency. You’ll hear practical reframes and mindset shifts for moving from “grieving the gap” to taking the next step with courage.
Episode Highlights
. Trade the gap for steps and measure progress by action, not arrival.
. Hold urgency without treating your dreams like an emergency.
. Ask for help boldly and stop carrying other people’s reactions.
. Differentiate destination from vehicle so you build the right path.
. Build your methodology now; iteration beats waiting for perfect timing.
. Reclaim metrics: impact over optics, practice over perfection.
. Count your steps forward to reduce anxiety and increase momentum.
Get To Know Our Guest
Najee Ward is a Senior Product Manager at a leading investment firm, where he’s led multimillion-dollar initiatives that shape how clients experience financial advice. Beyond corporate life, Najee is the founder of Divergent Dreams Co., an emerging creative platform and community purposed to help dreamers align their ideas, purpose, and impact. He’s the host and founder of the Divergent Dreamer podcast and publication, where he blends reflections, strategy, and storytelling. His work empowers people to live fulfilled lives marked by clarity, alignment, and impact. Najee lives in Dallas with his wife, two young children, and a growing jungle of plants.
Website: divergentdreams.co
Instagram: instagram.com/najrashad
Instagram (Divergent Dreams Co.): instagram.com/divergentdreamsco
Threads: threads.net/@najrashad
TikTok: tiktok.com/@najrashad
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/najee-ward-44946270
Resources Mentioned
. Divergent Dreams Co. – https://divergentdreams.co
. Rocky’s Live Leadership Training – https://www.rockygarza.com/confidence
Why This Conversation Matters
In Part 2 of Rocky’s conversation with Lydia Turner, they dive deeper into what it means to lead from a place of overflow rather than sacrifice. Lydia shares her journey of finding confidence in her body, her faith, and her purpose—and how that transformation has shaped the way she helps women today. This episode challenges you to think about where your strength truly comes from and what it looks like to live in alignment with your identity.
Episode Highlights
. Why sacrifice isn’t the same as service and how overflow transforms leadership.
. The role of faith in building lasting confidence and self-worth.
. How to recognize when you’re leading from emptiness versus abundance.
. Lydia’s personal story of overcoming insecurity through faith and health.
. Practical ways to align your body, mind, and spirit as a leader.
Get To Know Our Guest
Lydia is a 5x certified personal trainer based in Dallas, Texas, with a passion for empowering women to live confidently in their God-given bodies. With a background as a strength and conditioning coach and hundreds of women coached, she specializes in helping women build sustainable health habits rooted in faith. Originally on track to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy, the Lord called her to step into her true purpose as a Faith-based wellness coach.
Having grown up overweight and struggling with cycles of insecurity, fear, and a pursuit of approval, Lydia understands the challenges of feeling like food things aren’t meant for you. Her turning point came in 2023, when she gave her life to Christ and found her true identity and purpose. Now, as a faith-centered coach, her mission is to help women transform their lives by embracing their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, finding strength in Christ, and living with confidence.
Instagram: @Lydiairenee
TikTok: @Lydiairenee
Community: @faithandfitness.co
Website: Lydiairenee.com
Resources Mentioned
. Join Rocky for a live leadership training at the end of the month by RSVPing at rockygarza.com/confident
Why This Conversation Matters
Rocky and Lydia Turner unpack the real tension leaders feel between resting in identity and striving for results. Lydia shares her shift from hustle-at-all-costs to faith-centered action, and Rocky reframes “balance” as a healthier daily tension we can live inside. If you’ve ever wrestled with pace, purpose, and pressure, this part-one conversation will meet you right where you are.
Episode Highlights
. Replace balance with tension so both faith and effort can fully matter.
. Rest isn’t inactivity; it’s identity—your value is not your performance.
. Striving, discipline, and consistency aren’t bad; they just shouldn’t live in isolation.
. Reframe outcomes: show up with everything you have today, whether it’s 315 or 135.
. Faith is for uncertainty—keep moving your feet while you pray.
. Chase your legacy first, then let your actions align with it daily.
. Learn to pause: results matter, but they don’t define your worth.
Get To Know Our Guest
Lydia is a 5x certified personal trainer based in Dallas, Texas, with a passion for empowering women to live confidently in their God-given bodies. With a background as a strength and conditioning coach and hundreds of women coached, she specializes in helping women build sustainable health habits rooted in faith. Originally on track to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy, the Lord called her to step into her true purpose as a Faith-based wellness coach.
Having grown up overweight and struggling with cycles of insecurity, fear, and a pursuit of approval, Lydia understands the challenges of feeling like food things aren’t meant for you. Her turning point came in 2023, when she gave her life to Christ and found her true identity and purpose. Now, as a faith-centered coach, her mission is to help women transform their lives by embracing their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, finding strength in Christ, and living with confidence.
Lydia’s Instagram: @Lydiairenee
Lydia’s TikTok: @Lydiairenee
Lydia’s Community Organization: @faithandfitness.co
For 1-1 Online Coaching and Lydia’s information, visit her website Lydiairenee.com
Resources Mentioned
. Rocky’s Live Leadership Training – https://www.rockygarza.com/confidence
Stop Comparing, Start Becoming
In Part 2, we go deeper into identity, purpose, and the difference between arrival and becoming. Brandon and Rocky unpack strength, sensitivity, and the courage to choose yourself when the metrics disappear. This is a candid look at letting go of comparison and building a life you’re proud to lead—at home first.
Episode Highlights
. Define your dream after the dream ends, and why that matters now.
. Arrival is temporary, fulfillment lives in the journey you choose daily.
. Redefining strong: sensitivity, honesty, and letting the guard down at home.
. The trap of chasing pride from strangers instead of love from your people.
. A powerful reframe: future vision, present position, past posture.
. Why comparison to your former self will exhaust you and how to stop.
. The “choose you” challenge every parent and partner needs to hear.
. Becoming over arriving: the next 10 miles are yours to design.
Get To Know Our Guest
Brandon Finnegan is from Fort Worth, Texas, and played college baseball at TCU before being selected in the first round, 17th overall, of the 2014 MLB Draft by the Kansas City Royals. He is the first and only player to ever compete in both the College World Series and the Major League World Series in the same year. In 2015, Finnegan was traded to the Cincinnati Reds at the trade deadline, where he remained in the big leagues through mid-2018 before continuing his career in AAA with the Reds through 2021. He later spent 2022–2023 in AAA with the Chicago White Sox and concluded his professional career in independent baseball with the Kansas City Monarchs, winning a championship with the team.
Following his baseball career, Finnegan joined Go To Green, a gunshot detection company that provides innovative pathways to safety in unpredictable, disastrous situations and saves as many lives as possible. He lives in Keller, Texas, with his wife and their 4-year-old son.
Follow Brandon
Brandon’s Instagram: @finny29
Brandon’s X: bfinny29
Resources Mentioned
Join Rocky for a live leadership training at the end of this month - rockygarza.com/confidence
Finding Worth Beyond Performance
In this episode, Brandon Finnegan—the first and only player to ever compete in both the College World Series and the Major League World Series in the same year—opens up about navigating life beyond the mound. From depression during a forced retirement to discovering purpose through faith, family, and identity outside of baseball, this candid conversation explores leadership, self-worth, and making transitions with intention.
Episode Highlights
. The struggle for self-worth during retirement and sharing the weight of your identity hinging on performance.
. The liberating impact of faith and family in reclaiming identity.
. The tension between public expectation and private truth.
. Embracing authenticity when the crowd stops cheering.
Get To Know Our Guest
Brandon Finnegan is from Fort Worth, Texas, and played college baseball at TCU before being selected in the first round, 17th overall, of the 2014 MLB Draft by the Kansas City Royals. He is the first and only player to ever compete in both the College World Series and the Major League World Series in the same year. In 2015, Finnegan was traded to the Cincinnati Reds at the trade deadline, where he remained in the big leagues through mid-2018 before continuing his career in AAA with the Reds through 2021. He later spent 2022–2023 in AAA with the Chicago White Sox and concluded his professional career in independent baseball with the Kansas City Monarchs, winning a championship with the team.
Following his baseball career, Finnegan joined Go To Green, a gunshot detection company that provides innovative pathways to safety in unpredictable, disastrous situations and saves as many lives as possible. He lives in Keller, Texas, with his wife and their 4-year-old son.
Follow Brandon
Brandon’s Instagram: @finny29
Brandon’s X: bfinny29
Resources Mentioned
Join Rocky for a live leadership training at the end of this month - rockygarza.com/confidence
What This Episode Is About
What if faith isn’t about perfection, but about the willingness to try? In Part 2 of Rocky’s conversation with Mukwenda Kandole, they uncover what it means to redefine faith, embrace “the wrestle,” and lead with genuine vulnerability. This episode challenges our obsession with being right and explores how leaders can show up fully human without losing credibility.
Episode Highlights
. Why faith is less about certainty and more about the courage to try.
. The danger of chasing “being right” as a substitute for being loved.
. How to frame vulnerability as connection instead of weakness.
. Why “faith hustle” means showing up two days in a row.
. The difference between serving with a full cup and sacrificing from an empty one.
. The importance of letting others see your whole self—not just the polished moments.
Get To Know Our Guest
Mukwenda Kandole has been a faith based entrepreneur and videographer for almost 10 years. Starting with a passion to serve his local church with marketing and video work, he has built a business that has worked with notable brands such as Chick-Fil-A, TBN, FOX, Chrysler, Toyota, Michigan Medicine, Universal and the 1DayLA “Freedom Experience” with Justin Bieber. From consulting $100 million dollar companies to directing TV commercials, Mukwenda’s passion for serving people has taken him further than he could imagine.
He is also the host of “Faithustle Podcast”. A show dedicated to help Christian entrepreneurs learn how to build their business God’s way. With notable guest such as the CEO of Blue Bell Ice Cream, the producer of the chosen and dozens of Christian multi millionaires - he is helping business owners around the country to grow their businesses in a biblical manner.
Prior to starting his business, he dedicated his time to international missions that have taken him to 15 different nations to preach the gospel.
He currently resides in Dallas, TX where he serves at his local church.
. Faith Hustle on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@thefaithustle
. Mukwenda on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/mukwendakandole/
Resources Mentioned
. Join Rocky’s Live Leadership Training – https://www.rockygarza.com/confidence
What This Episode Is About
Faith, doubt, and leadership often live side by side—but most leaders don’t talk about it. In this powerful first part of our conversation with Mukwenda Kandole, Rocky explores what it looks like to hold belief and doubt together, why we must add new “wires” to our lives instead of rewiring our past, and how vulnerability is not weakness but a pathway to deeper faith.
Episode Highlights
. Why every leader still wrestles with hidden challenges, no matter their success.
. The connection between faith, belief, and doubt—and why they must coexist.
. How feelings of inadequacy can reveal deeper truths about courage and calling.
. Why adding new “wires” is more powerful than rewiring your past.
. The surprising role of discouragement and vulnerability in authentic leadership.
Get To Know Our Guest
Mukwenda Kandole has been a faith based entrepreneur and videographer for almost 10 years. Starting with a passion to serve his local church with marketing and video work, he has built a business that has worked with notable brands such as Chick-Fil-A, TBN, FOX, Chrysler, Toyota, Michigan Medicine, Universal and the 1DayLA “Freedom Experience” with Justin Bieber. From consulting $100 million dollar companies to directing TV commercials, Mukwenda’s passion for serving people has taken him further than he could imagine.
He is also the host of “Faithustle Podcast”. A show dedicated to help Christian entrepreneurs learn how to build their business God’s way. With notable guest such as the CEO of Blue Bell Ice Cream, the producer of the chosen and dozens of Christian multi millionaires - he is helping business owners around the country to grow their businesses in a biblical manner.
Prior to starting his business, he dedicated his time to international missions that have taken him to 15 different nations to preach the gospel.
He currently resides in Dallas, TX where he serves at his local church.
Find Faith Hustle on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@thefaithustle
Find Mukwenda on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/mukwendakandole/
Resources Mentioned
Join Rocky’s Live Leadership Training – https://www.rockygarza.com/confidence
Becoming Your Favorite Version of You
What does it take to say, “Today’s me is my favorite me”? In Part 2 of Rocky’s conversation with Gabriella Monte, they explore how forgiveness, boundaries, and redefining success shape the way we lead and live. This episode is a vulnerable look at letting go of old versions of ourselves while embracing who we’re becoming.
Episode Highlights
. The difference between sacrifice and service—and why it matters for leaders.
. How forgiveness of self opens the door to growth.
. Redefining success as seasons of life and leadership shift.
. Boundaries reframed: keeping what you love most in, not just keeping things out.
. Why asking questions doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.
Get To Know Our Guest
As Vice President of Hotel and Retail Operations at The Village Dallas, Gabriella Monte leads with vision, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With more than 15 years of experience across hospitality, real estate, and technology, Gabriella has established herself as a trailblazer in operational leadership. She has held pivotal roles with Kimpton Hotels and Resorts, Oracle, and Sentral, where she implemented high-impact strategies, introduced innovative technologies, and expanded market reach for leading brands.
In addition to her corporate roles, Gabriella has consulted for early-stage startups, specializing in building operational procedures and scalable customer service platform infrastructure. Her guidance has helped emerging companies create meaningful, efficient guest and client experiences from the ground up.
At The Drey Hotel, Gabriella has elevated the guest experience and operational performance through thoughtful strategy, personalized service, and a strong focus on brand integrity. She launched Drey Rewards, the hotel’s signature loyalty program, and has been instrumental in shaping a culture of hospitality that prioritizes both guest satisfaction and strong financial performance.
A passionate advocate for sustainability, Gabriella has led initiatives to support longleaf pine reforestation in Texas. At The Village Dallas, she has revitalized the retail district, achieving full occupancy across showroom spaces and transforming the area into a vibrant shopping destination. Her retail curation is intentional and empowering; every business she has brought on board is women-owned and operated, reflecting her deep commitment to championing female entrepreneurs.
Gabriella’s advocacy extends well beyond her professional role. She proudly serves on the Board of DIFFA Dallas and is an active supporter of Planned Parenthood, The Trevor Project, and Dress for Success. Gabriella is a beacon of modern leadership, showing how women can break barriers, lead with purpose, and drive lasting impact in both industry and community.
Follow Gabriella:
Instagram – @gabriellammonte
The Village Dallas – @thevillagedallas
Resources Mentioned
. Join Rocky’s Live Leadership Training – rockygarza.com/confidence
In this episode, I sit down with Gabriella, a dynamic leader who’s been on a journey of transformation in both her personal and professional life. We dive into the lessons she’s learned along the way about vulnerability, leadership, and rediscovering herself after becoming a mother. This episode is all about embracing imperfections and understanding that true leadership is not about presenting a polished version of yourself but being authentic and real.
As Vice President of Hotel and Retail Operations at The Village Dallas, Gabriella Monte leads with vision, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With more than 15 years of experience across hospitality, real estate, and technology, Gabriella has established herself as a trailblazer in operational leadership. She has held pivotal roles with Kimpton Hotels and Resorts, Oracle, and Sentral, where she implemented high-impact strategies, introduced innovative technologies, and expanded market reach for leading brands.
In addition to her corporate roles, Gabriella has consulted for early-stage startups, specializing in building operational procedures and scalable customer service platform infrastructure. Her guidance has helped emerging companies create meaningful, efficient guest and client experiences from the ground up.
At The Drey Hotel, Gabriella has elevated the guest experience and operational performance through thoughtful strategy, personalized service, and a strong focus on brand integrity. She launched Drey Rewards, the hotel’s signature loyalty program, and has been instrumental in shaping a culture of hospitality that prioritizes both guest satisfaction and strong financial performance.
A passionate advocate for sustainability, Gabriella has led initiatives to support longleaf pine reforestation in Texas. At The Village Dallas, she has revitalized the retail district, achieving full occupancy across showroom spaces and transforming the area into a vibrant shopping destination. Her retail curation is intentional and empowering , every business she has brought on board is women-owned and operated, reflecting her deep commitment to championing female entrepreneurs.
Gabriella’s advocacy extends well beyond her professional role. She proudly serves on the Board of DIFFA Dallas and is an active supporter of Planned Parenthood, The Trevor Project, and Dress for Success. Gabriella is a beacon of modern leadership, showing how women can break barriers, lead with purpose, and drive lasting impact in both industry and community.
We start by discussing Gabriella’s journey of intentionality. Gabriella shares how, prior to becoming a mother, she had always lived a life where success and career advancement were her primary focus. She talks about the mindset shift that came with motherhood, realizing that the greatest value she carried was not in her ability to present perfectly but in her ability to present the person behind the success. This journey wasn’t easy, but it became something truly beautiful as she learned to put her authentic self first.
Gabriella opens up about the challenges she faced when trying to become a mother. She had a long, emotional journey with infertility that tested her ability to overcome challenges beyond her control. Gabriella reveals how this experience shifted her perspective on life and success. While she was used to achieving anything she set her mind to in her career, the struggle to have a child was something that was completely out of her control, making her question her identity in a way she had never experienced before.
As we talk about the complexities of balancing career and personal life, Gabriella explains how she was able to use hardship as motivation to keep going. Even when she faced emotional and physical challenges, her drive to succeed in her career and maintain strong relationships with her family pushed her forward. However, it wasn’t always easy, and there were times when she felt out of control, not knowing if everything she was doing was worth it.
The journey through infertility and becoming a mother prompted Gabriella to rediscover who she truly was outside of her professional success. She explains how redefining herself wasn’t just about overcoming adversity but also about surrendering to the process and being vulnerable. For the first time, Gabriella allowed herself to acknowledge the struggles, and in doing so, she found a new sense of authenticity that helped her grow as both a person and a leader.
Gabriella shares an important lesson in vulnerability: it’s not just about being vulnerable with others, but also with yourself. She talks about how being open about her struggles, both personal and professional, has made her a stronger leader. She reflects on how many leaders, especially women, have often been conditioned to hide their vulnerabilities, but she now understands the power that comes with showing up authentically, even when things aren’t perfect.
A major theme of this episode is the relationship between leadership and empathy. Gabriella talks about how being an empathetic leader doesn’t make you weak; in fact, it can make you stronger. She emphasizes that showing empathy and understanding in leadership, especially during times of hardship, helps build deeper connections with your team and creates a more sustainable work environment. Leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s about showing your humanity and being willing to support others through their challenges.
As we wrap up the conversation, Gabriella shares some final thoughts on how leaders can balance their personal and professional lives, as well as how embracing vulnerability can lead to stronger, more authentic connections with those around them. She encourages leaders to keep striving for authenticity and to remember that imperfections and challenges are not weaknesses, but rather growth opportunities.
00:00 Introduction: Embracing Imperfection
00:46 Gabriella's Intentional Journey
02:39 The Challenges of Motherhood
04:32 Balancing Career and Personal Life
06:06 Rediscovering Identity
07:49 The Power of Vulnerability
08:51 Leadership and Empathy
19:19 Conclusion and Next Steps
In Part 2 of Show Us Your Human, I sit down with Darren Palmer, a leader, entrepreneur, and someone who is incredibly passionate about connecting with others. We dive into the truths behind leadership that are rarely seen—the struggles, the doubts, and the human side of great leadership.
Darren M. Palmer is a dynamic Serial Entrepreneur and the co-founder of one of the nation’s fastest-growing agencies, Prosperity Partners Agency. With a mission to empower families and entrepreneurs, Darren and his partners are equipping leaders with the tools and strategies needed to achieve financial freedom.
Before entering the insurance industry, Darren founded Self Publish -N- 30 Days, the #1 self-publishing company in the world, serving high-level entrepreneurs and helping them turn their stories into seven-figure platforms.
Through mentorship and experience, Darren discovered the keys to building wealth—but also realized the deep gap in financial literacy within the business community. Refusing to stand on the sidelines, he became a solution in the marketplace, teaching others how to build legacy, protect income, and steward their financial future with confidence.
We kick off the conversation with an important question: What makes you great? Darren shares that his resilience and deep faith are what truly set him apart. He believes that faith fuels resilience—his ability to keep going even when life gets tough. Resilience, as Darren explains, isn’t about never facing challenges, but about keeping faith through the trials. Darren’s perspective on leadership is that trials and tribulations are part of the process, and they’re what make us more than conquerors.
As we dig deeper, Darren reflects on the struggles that all great leaders face but don’t always share with the public. He talks about moments when he’s faced real doubts—whether it’s in his personal life, in his business decisions, or in his role as a father. Even when Darren has felt like giving up, he speaks to the mechanisms he uses to fight back: controlling his thoughts, his tongue, and his temperament. He shares how positive thinking and speaking life into situations has helped him overcome the hardest challenges, even when it feels like life is constantly knocking him down.
For Darren, his faith is the cornerstone of his resilience. He explains that, although he experiences moments of fear and doubt, he knows that faith—not perfection—is what keeps him going. Resilience comes from having a belief system strong enough to weather the storms of life. Darren explains that faith and doubt can coexist, and they often fuel each other in a powerful way. Doubt is the human experience, but faith provides the strength to carry on and take action in the face of it.
A key part of Darren’s approach to resilience is his ability to control his thoughts and words. He describes the discipline it takes to train your thoughts to stay aligned with the promises of his faith. He acknowledges that we all have thoughts of doubt, but it’s important to not let those thoughts dictate our reality. Verbalizing life and affirmations helps Darren stay in alignment with his purpose, no matter what challenges come his way.
We also talk about the importance of having the right support system. Darren explains that resilience can’t be done alone—surrounding yourself with people who align with your values and beliefs is critical for navigating life’s toughest moments. Darren emphasizes that as leaders, it’s crucial to be transparent with your team, especially in difficult times. By doing so, you allow your team to connect with you on a deeper level and gain strength from the humanity that’s often hidden beneath the leadership façade.
Towards the end of the conversation, Darren talks about his personal growth and the realizations he’s had about his role as a father, business owner, and leader. He reflects on how he used to resent his children because of the unmet expectations he had about being the perfect father. But he quickly realized that he couldn’t hold them responsible for his past. Leadership requires self-awareness and a willingness to grow beyond personal struggles, which is exactly what Darren is doing.
00:00 Introduction to Unfinished Leadership
00:49 Defining Resilience
01:25 Facing Life's Challenges
04:35 The Power of Thoughts and Words
09:09 Maintaining Optimism and Integrity
14:13 Faith as a Foundation
17:49 The Role of Doubt in Belief
18:04 Energizing Conversations
19:42 The Power of Free Will
21:07 Facing Doubt and Building Resilience
23:42 Breaking Industry Molds
25:50 Financial Literacy and Legacy
28:05 Personal Reflections and Growth
33:04 Embracing Humanity and Connection
35:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
In today’s episode, I sit down with Darren Palmer, a respected leader and entrepreneur, to discuss the unseen struggles that even the most successful leaders face. While many look up to leaders for their polished accomplishments, the truth is that behind every great leader, there’s something they’re still working through, something unfinished, something real. Darren’s journey is no exception.
Darren M. Palmer is a dynamic Serial Entrepreneur and the co-founder of one of the nation’s fastest-growing agencies, Prosperity Partners Agency. With a mission to empower families and entrepreneurs, Darren and his partners are equipping leaders with the tools and strategies needed to achieve financial freedom.
Before entering the insurance industry, Darren founded Self Publish -N- 30 Days, the #1 self-publishing company in the world, serving high-level entrepreneurs and helping them turn their stories into seven-figure platforms.
Through mentorship and experience, Darren discovered the keys to building wealth—but also realized the deep gap in financial literacy within the business community. Refusing to stand on the sidelines, he became a solution in the marketplace, teaching others how to build legacy, protect income, and steward their financial future with confidence.
Darren kicks things off by sharing something incredibly personal: he’s been recalibrating and reconnecting with what energizes him. As a business owner, it’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day operations of running a company and forget the authentic connections that once fueled your passion. Darren’s biggest challenge right now is returning to his true gift of connecting with people—something that energizes him rather than drains him. He reflects on how business can often make you forget who you really are, and he's currently on a mission to get back to what made his business grow in the first place—genuine human connection.
We then dive into the roadblocks many leaders face, whether they’re entrepreneurs or employees in a W2 role. Darren admits that for a long time, he found himself stuck in the mundane tasks of running the business, often mistaking activity for actual progress. We talk about how easy it is to get caught up in busywork—checking emails, filing documents, making small changes—and feel productive without actually moving the needle on what really matters. Darren points out that it’s essential to identify which tasks are truly income-generating and which ones are just distractions.
A powerful moment came when we explored how easy it is to fall into the trap of doing things the way others expect. Darren shared a biblical example, David and Saul’s armor, which Darren uses as a metaphor for business and leadership. Just because something worked for someone else doesn’t mean it will work for you. Darren reflected on the times he ran his business the way others thought he should—like having a brick-and-mortar store or hiring large teams—only to realize that these decisions weren’t actually the right fit for him. The important takeaway here? Do what works for you, not what worked for someone else.
Darren got real about some tough leadership decisions, particularly about trusting the wrong people in the wrong roles. Just because someone is a family member, friend, or someone you trust doesn’t mean they’re the right person for a role. This conversation opened up the idea of the right person, right seat philosophy from the book Traction, where we often fill seats with people we already know rather than figuring out who’s the best fit for a role. Darren’s perspective here is that while it's important to trust people, it's critical to put them in the role they’re truly qualified for.
We also explore the difficult moment when founders or CEOs realize that their leadership may have reached a plateau. Darren shared a conversation with a CEO who felt he had taken the company as far as he could, wondering if he was the right leader to take it to the next level. Darren and I discussed the importance of constantly reevaluating your own role as a leader and asking the tough question: Are you the right person for the seat you’re in, or is it time to redefine your role?
The conversation took another turn when Darren talked about his strength in building partnerships. As he’s learned, having a strong team around you means you don’t have to do everything yourself. The real key to success in leadership, for Darren, is recognizing your strengths and knowing when to delegate to others who excel in areas where you’re not as strong. Partnerships are essential for building a scalable business and living in alignment with what truly energizes you.
00:00 – Introduction: The Unseen Struggles of Great Leaders
01:06 – Meet Darren Palmer: A Journey of Leadership
01:34 – The Importance of Authentic Connections
03:03 – Balancing Business and Personal Growth
05:00 – Identifying and Overcoming Obstacles
06:38 – The Right Person in the Right Seat
10:07 – Finding Purpose and Passion
18:40 – Conclusion: Embracing Your True Role
In today’s episode, we dive into part two of the human side of leadership with Angelee, who shares her journey of balancing her leadership role with vulnerability, self-doubt, and authenticity. As a leader in her business, she explores the challenges of showing up fully human, accepting both the strengths and weaknesses that come with it, and how emotional transparency can lead to greater connection and candor with others.
This conversation is packed with deep insights on leadership, personal growth, and understanding how to truly show up as yourself, even when it feels uncomfortable. We also get real about the struggles of people-pleasing and the desire to be seen as strong, and how those desires can sometimes conflict with being authentic.
Angelee is a Dallas local with a deep passion for intentional living, storytelling, and cultivating genuine connections. With a background spanning retail visual merchandising, marketing, and photo production, her career has always been rooted in creativity and collaboration. These days, she works closely with Le Social, a boutique creative and marketing agency, helping brands bring their vision to life through thoughtful strategy, impactful content, and client engagement. A lifelong hustler with a heart for creative communities, Angelee thrives at the intersection of artistry and entrepreneurship. Always energized by the opportunity to build something meaningful alongside fellow dreamers and doers.
I start the conversation by asking Angelee about a recent business venture she’s embarked on with a close friend. She reflects on the challenge of stepping into leadership, managing a team, and accepting the responsibility of guiding others. However, as an emotionally-driven, empathetic person, she finds it difficult to show up as a strong leader without fearing that her emotions might make her appear weak.
Angelee gets candid about her internal battle of wanting to be seen as strong, composed, and in control, but struggling with the reality of her emotions often spilling out in ways that feel beyond her control. She wonders whether showing emotion is a weakness in leadership, but also recognizes that it’s part of her authentic self.
I challenge Angelee with a simple question: What does it mean to be a strong leader? Angelee admits that for her, strength means having the ability to control her emotions, even when she feels overwhelmed or vulnerable. But as she reflects on her own experiences, she realizes that true strength in leadership might not lie in suppressing emotions, but rather in embracing them while staying grounded in the process.
I push her to think about whether this perception of strength is truly what makes a great leader or if it’s merely a self-imposed expectation. Angelee realizes that strength might look different for everyone, and for her, it’s about leading with vulnerability, knowing that it’s okay to not always have everything under control.
Angelee opens up about her history of people-pleasing tendencies and how they’ve shaped her as a leader. She talks about how she often finds herself doing things for others out of a desire to be loved and appreciated, which can sometimes lead her to sacrifice her own needs.
I help her distinguish between service and sacrifice, pointing out that sacrifice often comes from a place of needing validation, while service comes from a place of abundance and love. Angelee acknowledges that she often confuses the two and that this confusion impacts her ability to lead from a healthy, grounded place.
The conversation then turns to the idea of individuality in leadership. Angelee shares her internal struggle of wanting to stand out and be memorable, while also desiring to blend in with the group. She admits that she wants to be seen and appreciated for her uniqueness, but also wrestles with the fear of being too much or too different.
I encourage her to embrace her individuality without feeling that it takes away from others. I remind her that being memorable and unique doesn’t mean overshadowing others, and that leadership is about finding the balance between standing out and bringing others along.
As Angelee reflects on her leadership journey, she talks about the importance of creating safe spaces, both for herself and for her team. She shares how, over the years, she’s become more intentional about the people she surrounds herself with, focusing on relationships that are built on trust, respect, and emotional safety.
She recognizes that setting boundaries is crucial for protecting her own well-being and ensuring that she can show up fully without burning out. I remind her that boundaries aren’t about keeping people out, but rather about preserving what matters most so she can continue to serve others from a place of overflow.
One of the key themes in this conversation is the power of being human and vulnerable in leadership. We talk about how embracing vulnerability not only helps leaders connect with their teams but also allows for deeper, more authentic relationships. Angelee reflects on how, in the past, she’s avoided vulnerability because it felt like a weakness, but now she sees it as a strength that leads to greater candor and connection.
I emphasize that being human doesn’t mean being perfect. It means showing up with your full self, emotions and all, and allowing others to see you as you are. This kind of transparency creates an environment where others feel safe to do the same, which fosters trust and collaboration.
00:00 Introduction to Unfinished Leadership
00:33 Meet Angelique: The Real Story Behind Leadership
01:15 The Emotional Journey of Leadership
02:52 The Struggle with Emotions in Leadership
04:26 The Importance of Being Genuine
07:11 Balancing Candor and Control
08:54 The Power of Human Connection
17:55 Reflecting on Personal Impact
21:35 Defining Service vs. Sacrifice
22:21 The Struggle with People Pleasing
24:08 Desire to Be Memorable
24:53 Balancing Individuality and Inclusion
27:03 The Importance of Setting Boundaries
28:26 Showing Up as Your True Self
32:16 The Power of Human Connection
42:19 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
In today’s episode, I’m joined by my good friend, Angelee Fortuna, for a real and candid conversation about leadership, emotions, and the power of showing up as your true self. Over the years, Angelee has been an incredible example of leadership, not just through her achievements, but through her willingness to show vulnerability and authenticity.
We’re diving into how she balances being emotionally present and being a leader. We talk about people-pleasing, the struggle with finding your voice, and the power of being memorable without diminishing others. I also challenge Angelee to think about how she shows up fully in her life, both professionally and personally, and how to do that without feeling drained.
Angelee is a Dallas local with a deep passion for intentional living, storytelling, and cultivating genuine connections. With a background spanning retail visual merchandising, marketing, and photo production, her career has always been rooted in creativity and collaboration. These days, she works closely with Le Social, a boutique creative and marketing agency, helping brands bring their vision to life through thoughtful strategy, impactful content, and client engagement. A lifelong hustler with a heart for creative communities, Angelee thrives at the intersection of artistry and entrepreneurship. Always energized by the opportunity to build something meaningful alongside fellow dreamers and doers.
Angelee opens up about a conversation she had with her husband, Eddie, where he helped her realize the impact she has on those around her. Through their 20 years together, she’s learned how her words—both positive and negative—cut deep for people. She struggles with finding the balance between wanting to be understood while also not wanting to overwhelm others with her intensity.
Angelee reflects on this realization and how, for her, expressing herself honestly isn’t about being aggressive; it’s about being clear. This part of our conversation reveals how often we don’t realize the weight of our words until someone else brings it to our attention.
A huge part of Angelee’s journey has been tackling her own people-pleasing tendencies. She admits that while she’s always eager to serve others, she’s also battling with the feeling that it’s often at the cost of sacrificing herself. We dig into the difference between sacrifice—losing yourself to gain approval—and service—giving freely from a place of overflow and love.
Angelee admits she struggles with this, and we both share how easy it is to confuse the two. It’s a conversation that’s so valuable because, in the pursuit of serving others, we often lose sight of our own needs.
This conversation led us to a critical reflection on how we define sacrifice and service. Sacrifice, in this context, isn’t about selflessness—it’s about losing yourself to gain approval. On the other hand, service comes from a place of abundance and a desire to support others without depleting your own energy.
This shift in perspective has been an important lesson for both of us. We discuss how we’ve both, at times, sacrificed our own needs for others, and how, with growth, we’ve learned that service should come from a healthier, more sustainable place.
We dive deeper into Angelee’s personal desire to be memorable. But what does that truly mean? She recognizes that her instinct is to blend in, to be part of the group, but also feels the pull to stand out in a way that’s uniquely hers. She grapples with the idea of being memorable without taking away from others.
I challenge her with a tough question: Can you be memorable without overshadowing others? The answer is a resounding yes, and we talk about how embracing your individuality doesn’t need to be in conflict with others doing the same.
Angelee shares how, as she’s grown older, her circle has gotten smaller and more intentional. She reflects on how important it is for her to be surrounded by people who make her feel safe, accepted, and in control—not in the sense of dominance, but in the sense of emotional security.
It’s a beautiful reminder of how essential it is to surround ourselves with those who help us grow, while also allowing us to maintain a sense of safety and belonging.
In this segment, we explore how creating safe spaces is critical for healthy leadership and personal relationships. We discuss boundaries—how they’re not just about keeping people out, but about creating room for the things we love to thrive.
I encourage Angelee to think about the boundaries she’s setting in her life, both personally and professionally, and how they enable her to serve from a place of overflow instead of depletion.
We dive into the concept of human connection and how showing up as your true self, with all the messy emotions and imperfections, can create deeper, more meaningful relationships. Angelee reflects on how showing up as “herself” allows others to feel more comfortable doing the same.
The vulnerability and authenticity that come with this approach lead to more real conversations, better leadership, and deeper trust.
Angelee has learned to embrace her emotions in leadership—understanding that they don’t make her weak, but rather make her relatable and human. We explore how allowing ourselves to show emotion as leaders actually strengthens our connection with those we lead, rather than diminishing it.
This was such a powerful part of the conversation because it’s often hard for leaders to admit that they are emotional beings, and yet, that’s exactly what makes us great leaders.
As we wrap up, I encourage Angelee to continue showing up as her full, authentic self. The more we lean into who we really are, the more we can give to others without depleting ourselves. And when we embrace the full range of emotions, we create an environment where others feel safe to do the same.
I’m so grateful to have had this conversation with Angelee. Her vulnerability and honesty are inspiring, and I know they’ll resonate with you too.
00:00 – Introduction: Unmasking Leadership
00:47 – Angelee's Journey: Awareness and Impact
03:12 – The Struggle with People Pleasing
03:41 – Defining Service vs. Sacrifice
06:08 – The Desire to Be Memorable
06:47 – The Importance of Individuality
08:37 – Creating Safe Spaces and Boundaries
10:30 – The Power of Human Connection
14:55 – Embracing Emotion in Leadership
25:12 – Conclusion: Show Up Fully
25:58 – Outro and Call to Action
In today’s episode, I want to talk about one of my favorite concepts around leadership, personal development, and life in general: tension. It’s a concept that I keep coming back to because, for me, it encapsulates so much of what we experience in our personal and professional journeys.
I’ve struggled for years with the idea of work-life balance. For some reason, the term “balance” never sat right with me. The idea of splitting life into neat 50/50 parts felt wrong, like I was trying to force something that wasn’t really natural. So, I started thinking, what if work-life balance isn’t the answer? What if it’s more about tension—living in the space where two things pull at each other and, in that space, we find clarity?
When I think about tension, I realize it’s not just about work versus life, but about any part of our lives that feels like it’s pulling us in different directions. We’re constantly told we have to choose: Are you going to hustle and be successful, or are you going to rest and take care of yourself?
Why does it have to be either/or? Why can’t it be both? That’s when I started thinking about how tension might actually be the answer. The reality is that life isn’t a constant “either/or” situation. There’s a lot of gray area in between. It’s uncomfortable, but maybe it’s where the real growth happens.
We’re constantly fed with absolutes. It’s all around us: You’re either a Republican or a Democrat. You’re either a leader or a follower. You’re either successful or you’re not. It’s almost like society wants us to pick a side, and if we don’t, then we don’t belong anywhere.
But what if the truth isn’t in picking a side? What if the truth lies in living in that tension between both sides? Maybe it’s not about being right—it’s about being willing to sit in the discomfort of not knowing all the answers and letting both perspectives be true at the same time.
I’ve found that tension can actually be a great source of growth. I know it’s uncomfortable, but that tight feeling in your chest when you’re pulled in two directions—it’s a sign that something powerful is happening. We’re all used to trying to avoid discomfort, but what if that discomfort is exactly what we need to push ourselves to grow?
Life is both hard and beautiful. We can struggle and still find beauty in the struggle. We can experience pain and loss while also embracing joy. It doesn’t have to be one or the other.
One of the best examples of this came for me recently with my kids. I lost my patience with them, and in that moment, I felt like I failed. I could have walked away, thinking, I’m a terrible parent, but instead, I chose to go back into their room, apologize, and ask for forgiveness.
I could let part of the story be true that I was impatient and frustrated. But what’s also true is that I showed up, took responsibility for my actions, and made amends. Both sides of that experience are valid. The tension doesn’t have to be negative—it’s just part of being human.
This is where I think the real power of tension comes in: learning how to balance confidence and doubt. We live in a world where we’re told we should either be confident or doubt everything, but in reality, I believe that both can exist simultaneously. It’s okay to be confident in what you believe and still hold space for uncertainty.
When I look at my life, I see both confidence and doubt working together, pushing me forward and keeping me grounded at the same time.
There’s beauty in holding two perspectives at once. Life can be both difficult and rewarding. Leadership can be both about pushing forward and being vulnerable. Relationships can be both deeply fulfilling and challenging. The beauty lies in finding the balance between both—and allowing yourself to sit in the tension.
When we do that, we get a fuller picture of life. We get a deeper understanding of ourselves and those around us. And we get the clarity that comes from seeing things from multiple perspectives.
So, here’s my challenge to you today: Where in your life are you feeling tension? Where could you allow both things to be true at the same time? What if the answer to your current challenge isn’t about picking one side but instead about embracing the discomfort of holding both truths together?
I want to encourage you to think about that and explore the tension in your life. What if, by sitting in that tension, you can open up to a fuller, more authentic version of yourself?
00:00 – Introduction to the Concept of Tension
00:45 – Exploring Work-Life Tension
01:24 – Living in a World of Absolutes
02:29 – Embracing Discomfort and Growth
04:13 – The Power of Vulnerability and Reconciliation
06:18 – Balancing Confidence and Doubt
07:45 – The Beauty of Holding Both Perspectives
08:40 – Conclusion and Invitation
In this episode, I sit down with Charla Storey, an entrepreneur balancing multiple businesses, motherhood, and self-care. We dive into the raw, unresolved parts of leadership, discussing how to navigate uncertainty and redefine success. If something in this conversation resonates with you, stick around. At the end of the show, I’ll share how you can join our monthly leadership training.
Charla Storey is the CEO and founder of Charla Storey Photography, a luxury wedding photography team recognized among the top 50 photographers worldwide by Brides, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Over the Moon. As a wife and mother, she's built a global photography business over 13 years, traveling to capture celebrations worldwide while creating "effortlessly editorial photos that will still look damn good in 50 years."
What started as a single mom building a career has evolved into a dual-purpose mission. As co-owner and CEO of Develope Academy, Charla channels her passion for mentoring into comprehensive education for photographers. She helps fellow creatives develop both their technical skills and business acumen through practical, no-nonsense courses and a supportive community—proving you can scale expertise while staying grounded in authenticity.
Charla's work has been featured in Vogue, The New York Times, Harper's Bazaar, and Good Morning America. But what she's most proud of? Helping photographers and couples alike feel confident, valued, and heard—whether she's behind the camera or in front of the microphone.
“When all of them are struggling, it’s really hard not to look in the mirror and think — well, they have something in common. I wonder what that is.” — Charla Storey
“Sometimes how it feels feels true, even when it isn’t.” — Charla Storey
“Success right now is peace. It’s the certainty that my effort is building the long game.” — Charla Storey
“Certainty is not always possible — belief plus doubt plus action equals results.” — Rocky Garza
“You can hydrate to survive, not to perpetually hold more water.” — Rocky Garza