Nashville’s Most Inspiring Stories

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.

Natasha Hazlett

5 years later, I moved from full-time law practice to serving as an Of Counsel attorney to my firm in Boise, Idaho. This allowed me to build my estate planning practice on my own time while working full-time in business with my husband, Richard. My husband and worked together and successfully built a thriving online business and marketing consulting business, where we coached women to define, build and monetize their brand online. Read More>>

Cade Ortego

I am a songwriter and artist. I’m the lead singer for my band Cade Ortego & The Mood Swings. I can’t say for sure, but I think I am known for catchy songs and good stage presence. I think one thing that sets my band apart is the songs. We are very proud of them and feel that we are accomplishing a sound that is unique. We also put on a great live show, and I think other people can hopefully attest to that! Lastly, we have a very mature sound, considering that we are all young college students. Anytime we play a show in Nashville, we always surprise people when they realize we are all practically kids. Read More>>

Elzbieta Tokarska

In recent years, my performing career has expanded internationally. I was invited to tour Japan as part of a series of Tokarski Duo concerts, supported by the Polish Embassy in Japan and the Polish Institute in Tokyo, where I performed alongside my brother, pianist Kamil Tokarski. As a soloist, I have performed with prestigious orchestras such as Capella Bydgostensis in Poland, the Estate Musicale Frentana Festival Orchestra in Italy, and the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra and Schwob Philharmonic Orchestra in the United States. A major milestone in my career came in 2017, when I had the honor of making my Carnegie Hall debut in New York City.  Read More>>

Robert Ledet

From 2017 to 2020, I led a group of friends (Lucky Halfspeed) in creating a zero-budget movie, “Play For Free” which featured songs from my second EP, “Guttersoul”. After the movie, I started working on new material for a third solo EP. Around this time I came across videos of Rai Thistlethwayte (Sun Rai) playing moog bass, Wurlitzer and singing simultaneously. It was a revelation for me – you could create a full soul/funk band with just drums and keys! Inspired, I bought a Moog Sub 37 and learned to play left hand bass, discovering that good bass and drums are all you really need to start a band. Read More>>

Tiffany Tipton

I began my career 20 years ago this coming March! I branched out to begin my own business after becoming a single mom of a child with special needs. It was more out of necessity than anything else so that I can take my daughter to her appointments and give her the attention she needs. Little did I know that starting this business would change my and her lives in the best way! The community I have built through my studio has been my greatest blessing. Read More>>

Jennifer Masley

My life has felt very much like a test of this resilience and in turn I am grateful to be able to relate to (and have deep empathy for) many people as a result of the journey. From being born to teenage parents, leaving home at 14, finding my way to and through college. Married in my mid 20’s and two children by 30, life still having its way with me in between the joys and successes. I have always embodied gratitude, to get to fully live and experience all of what life wants to show me. To learn along the way, to stay in alignment with my truth – even when I struggled with what that truth was, never giving up on the seeking. Read More>>

Chris Love

It’s not easy, haha. I’ve been in the music industry for over 20 years and I still feel like I’m just getting started. I’ve had anxiety my whole life, and that’s held me back in so many ways. So many opportunities I’ve squandered because of fear. Thankfully I’ve been working to understand and manage my anxiety and since I’ve had major improvements in my career and daily life in general. Read More>>

Emily Myers

Like a lot of artists, I’ve had to navigate self-doubt, financial struggles, and the reality of working in an industry where nothing is guaranteed. Moving to Nashville was a leap of faith, and while it’s been incredible, it also came with its fair share of setbacks—playing to empty rooms, hearing “no” more times than I can count, and learning the hard way that talent alone isn’t enough. You have to show up every day, put in the work, and keep pushing even when it feels like no one is listening. Read More>>

Marvin Richardson

I worked for some very large and prestigious contractors and eventually transitioned to work on the Owners side as a Construction Manager for Amazon. Creativity is still in my blood and I managed to do content creation via YouTube focusing on adding value to relationships. Throughout all my years I’ve consistently grown through being of service locally and virtually at church, building systems and physical spaces in construction, and adding value to life’s most precious connections. Faith, Family, and Love! Read More>>

Rachel Clift

I’ve now published eight of my own poetry books, hosted two successful artist retreats to Europe, and worked with over seventy individual authors to design their own poetry books and mentor them through the indie-publishing process. When I first began writing for that class, I never thought it would lead me to be a full-time book designer, mentor, travel host, and published author— but that just goes to show— everything happens for a reason.  Read More>>

Suzanne Igoe

No, it has not been smooth. But, has it been worth it? Heck YES! I discussed some of my staff struggles earlier. I want to express that even though it is hard to have employees and at times it seems it shouldn’t happen. If I had stopped when it was hard, would not be where I am today. I could NOT do it without them. Read More>>

Marquita Gipson

My story is simple, I was obedient with my gifts. Girls that Glitter Inc originated from what I thought was a one time thing. I wanted to celebrate my 30th birthday with a free event for 30 girls in the community. This event was to focus on self-love, confidence and anti-bullying. Here we are almost 7 years later thriving and continue to impact the lives of girls and young women ages 7-21. The mission of Girls that Glitter Inc has flourished and continues to evolve. Read More>>

Mikkita Moore

Mikkita’s motivational speaking is powerful and rooted in real-life experiences. She connects deeply with her audience by sharing raw, relatable stories of overcoming adversity and igniting change. Her approach fosters empathy, encourages self-awareness, and creates a platform for others to take meaningful steps toward healing. Her dynamic ability to engage audiences and offer actionable insights has made her a sought-after speaker in various settings. Read More>>

Flynn Hendrix

So I ended up watching the pay per view with my long-time friend, Chris Rucker, and from there I was hooked. Not long after that, WWE ended up coming to town for the Judgement Day pay per view, and I was able to go with Chris and my mom, and my addiction only grew from there. Read More>>

Ryan Thewes

I ended up working for him for 4 years before deciding it was time to move back closer to home and start a family. Our choice of Nashville was an educated decision as neither my wife or I had ever been there before. It was a larger city that had yet to really explode and there weren’t many architects here doing Modern Architecture so I thought I might be able to create a niche. In hindsight, it was a pretty good decision as I have been able to grow and develop with the city and provide a little bit of influence on its residential architecture. Read More>>

Alexa Shea

I’m a singer songwriter… first and foremost but current primary career is being the CEO of Viibe HIi Productions where we create new and meaningful content to entertain and empower. I’m the Creator of the new TV Show “Soul Sound, which will soon be airing along with sharing it’s partner app (WSWS) a wonderful tool for audiences everywhere who want to turn their story into a song. (consider it like a Tinder, but for songwriters!) Read More>>

Bart Bryars

I carried around those wild stories for years until I finally wrote them down in my 2022 memoir, The Rabbit In Me. Basically rudderless beforehand, it was in prison that I discovered a path that I hadn’t planned on, to be a musician for the rest of my life. I survived those years behind the wall by being the music man. Read More>>

Lil Trip

I started getting booked every weekend all around the middle Tennessee area making a household name for myself. I moved to LA for a while after graduating high school to further my career where I had meetings with a few major labels and also receiving co signs from artist like Snoop Dogg. I was inspired by artist like Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, & Drake. Fast forward today I’ve had the opportunity to tour with Nashville’s own Jelly Roll, on his Crosses and Crossroads tour. I produce and audio engineer for many artists around the Nashville area, currently just opened my own studio “Take A Trip Studios” which started in Goodlettsville, Tn, but now we are right in the heart of downtown Nashville. Read More>>

Erica Qualy

And then there’s the usual regrets here and there of not doing the proper research on items and selling them for wayyyy less than market value. Navigating taxes and other legal red tape as a small business owner can be scary. I also struggle with making my own schedule sometimes, it can be bittersweet dividing up your time when your passion is also your source of income. But overall, starting my own business is the best thing that’s ever happened to me! My hope is that everyone is able to invest in themselves and do the things they love for a living! Read More>>

Jaylene Checchin

One of the biggest ongoing challenges has been raising awareness about pelvic floor physical therapy. Many women don’t realize that issues like leaking, pain, or core weakness aren’t things they just have to live with. Educating my community and helping women feel empowered has been both a challenge and one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. Read More>>

Brian Weaver

Along this remarkable journey, I have collaborated with impactful non-profit organizations like the Hope Movement Coalition and Pathway to Freedom, contributing my skills to projects that aim to make a difference in our society. I am humbled to have had the privilege of working with former governors of Arkansas and have encountered numerous opportunities that have enriched my professional and personal life. Reflecting on this extraordinary path, I am filled with gratitude for the challenges and triumphs that have shaped my business and allowed me to follow my passion for storytelling through videography. Read More>>

Darlene Marmolejo

I am so blessed to be able to share my passion with my community! I sell bread out of in home bakery, and at farmers’ markets. Maybe one day I’ll have a brick and mortar! As an ingredient conscious mom of two, I failed to find bread and treats without an abundance of unnecessary ingredients. That is why my bakery is seed oil free, and mostly organic and non GMO. It’s something I’m passionate about in my home that extends into my little bakery. I am so happy to share this passion of mine with my community! Read More>>

A M A R I S

Other than being a recording artist, I recently started a reality series on YouTube, “Amaris: The Bachelorette Show”. Episode 4 airs Tuesday 1/28. Subscribe now so you don’t miss it! My show is all about my life and the things I do. I talk about various topics including entrepreneurship, the music industry, my career as a musician and thought-provoking controversies. You’ll also catch a glimpse into a day in my life throughout the series as you’ll follow me to the studio, events, etc. Read More>>

Jasmin Whitson

My kid was turning 18, my husband worked in management (pulling long hours), and my friends still had small children (they were about that mom life, lol), and I felt unfulfilled in my career and purpose. Yes, I had the husband, the high 5 figure job, the house with the picket fence, and about to become an empty nester but I wasn’t happy. In all my years working I dreamt of being promoted to management because at the heart of it all I’m a teacher, coach, and cheerleader so naturally I thought management was the next step for my career trajectory but the path I saw for myself was not the path God laid out for me. Read More>>

Trashman Studios

Then I upgraded the drum set and then I needed to buy drum mics to record them and then that snowballed into a quest of acquiring every instrument I came in contact with , while trying to learn all facets of sound design and the recording process. The age old story of, If you give a mouse a cookie then you’re gonna have to buy a mic to record the crunch and a chase bliss pedal to filter it through. It was a hyper-focused blur of bad spending habits and the need to collect everything. Read More>>

Rachel Deelynn

I was a shell of a person for a good while, heartbroken that I’d lost my college experience to the pandemic, and then losing someone I’d made my rock and hoped to be the rest of my life. This past year has been life changing and incredibly freeing- the moment I decided to take the leap of faith and start releasing my own music was the moment I found myself. Obviously with that vulnerability comes its own challenges and rejection. But I’ve learned that every “no” is one step closer to a “hell yes”. Read More>>

Jineen Glover

I do collaborations with companies promoting products embracing age. I also encourage women to embrace where they are at and give beauty and makeup tips and tricks that go well with silver hair! I’m proud of living as my authentic self and I think what sets me apart is just trying to be myself and be ok right where I am in this space. I’m happy being 49, being alive and healthy and being me! I have a big project coming up in the near future that is a secret, but can’t wait to share eventually! Stay tuned:) Read More>>

Paula Jo Taylor

I always wanted to move to Nashville to better my craft of guitar playing, however it took getting married, divorced, remarried and raising three children to be able to do so. My daughter Amanda had begun singing with me in our local band and it was clear she was an awesome singer, so in 2005 we were finally blessed with the opportunity to move to Nashville. While my daughter Amanda attended Belmont University, I traveled with an all girl band called, broadBand. We played all over the country opening for many major label acts and making wonderful memories. After Amanda graduated college, we formed our mother-daughter duo, The Taylors. Read More>>

Archer Astrology

I still have my grandmothers original deck from the 1950s with Bible verses written on each card. Having been raised Catholic and Christian my mother helped teach me what her mother had taught here to use my gifts for the good and help others find healing and guidance on their journey. I look at the cards like a bible or a road map to find ourselves. Like an extra tool in the tool box of life. It’s opened many doors for me that I am truly blessed by that led me from Michigan to here in Nashville and I’ve loved the journey so far! Read More>>

Mytasia Stone

Although I love photography, creating a small photography business has not been a smooth road. It takes time and dedication to turn a passion into a profession. One of the challenges I faced was figuring out how to transform something I enjoyed doing for fun into a viable business. Investing both money and time into photography, which can be expensive, made it crucial to know my worth and charge appropriately to sustain the business. Read More>>

Ryan Tolbert

The idea of starting a film lab never crossed my mind. I was simply a photographer looking for a more affordable way to process and scan my own film. Tired of the rising costs of commercial labs, I decided to invest in some basic equipment and began developing film in my own kitchen. Sunday afternoons became a ritual of chemical baths and hand tanks, a process that was both rewarding and surprisingly cost-effective. Read More>>

Christian Charley

I realized then that I wanted to make music for the rest of my life. It was also when I created my artist name, DFRNC (pronounced “Difference”), and learned how to turn some of my poetry into rap. I even wrote my first song, “Momma Said,” to a Drake instrumental. With that clarity, I applied to the University of Michigan for Performing Arts Technology, where I spent the next 4 years studying to become a producer, songwriter, and sound engineer. I graduated in 2022 with a degree in Performing Arts Tech and a minor in Performance Management. Read More>>

Nicole Beasley

I worked reception at a couple of salons until I found my salon home. The Pink Mullet Salon in Franklin, TN. There I had the honor of working under one of the owners until I was on my own. Been here since 2021 and do not see myself going anywhere. They have helped mold me into who I am. Discover talent of my own that I did not think I had. Pushed me to do better. I winded up having a child and had to take some time off. It was hard coming back. I have worked so hard to be where I am today. I am continuing to do so. I will not give up. Read More>>

Ayeshia Smith

As I honed my skills, I began designing custom garments; each piece reflecting a story of individuality, confidence, and elegance. I wanted my designs to empower people, making them feel seen, beautiful, and bold. My dedication to my craft has led me to incredible opportunities, showcasing my work both locally and across the country. I’ve had the honor of presenting my designs at prestigious fashion events, including LA Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week, where my creations graced the runway alongside some of the industry’s finest talents. Read More>>

John Widrick

Our mission at The Bridge House is to lead youth out of homelessness and empower them to live a life that inspires change in others. Since launching, we’ve been able to serve over 2,000 families in the middle, TN area. On May 1, we’ll be cutting the ribbon for our second location, which will provide transitional housing and case management for youth aging out of foster care ages 18 to 20 as they prepare for long-term independent living. Read More>>

Zachariah Witcher

Since then I have continued to make beats, tracks and songs with artists. I have continued to grow my catalogue and have tried to stay diverse in the types of tracks I am able to create. I have also started a company called OffBrand Entertainment which is a live entertainment production house. OffBrand has worked with artists like Tiera Kennedy with arranging her live show, finding and rehearsing a band for her and just making sure that the live experience is as good if not better than listening to the album itself. The co owner of OffBrand is my brother Daniel Jones. He is an amazing DJ and has toured with Thomas Rhett as well as played many of the best rooftop bars here in Nashville, TN. Read More>>

Penny Haas

I decided to go out on my own as an event planner in 2020. Since then, I’ve been full time in my business planning and producing weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, galas, holiday parties, grand openings, conferences and more. Throughout my business lifecycle, I’ve been fortunate to join networking groups like the NCVC, Chamber of Commerce, Nashville Wedding Planner Group, as well as various committees and boards. Most recently I was awarded Best Event Planner through the Nashville Scene, as well as a 40 Under 40 winner for the Nashville Business Journal. I’ve offered internships and mentorships through my business. Today I am focusing on sales, growing my business, leadership and creating meaningful relationships within my community. Read More>>

Katie Talbot

I spent 3 years building the Vocal Lab Collective on YouTube with a best friend and now I run Gold Lion Studios with my husband who produces and writes. We have clients all over the country and are able to plug in with some of the best writers in Nashville to create the best songs for our clients. From country, to indie pop, k-pop and even R&B, we cover all genres. Our studio is a full on development and production business. We help the artist navigate their sound, find their style, counsel on release plan, introduce them to industry connections while encouraging them to be true to who they are as an artist and a person. Read More>>

Aria E Farmer

When building anything from the ground up, there are and will continue to be obstacles. In the horse world, you’re not only contending with animals, you’re also contending with the weather and people. I’d say my biggest struggles were finding and maintaining a structured routine. Working with horses/people requires a lot of physical and emotional input, so always trying to stay level headed and grounded has been a very strong priority for me. Read More>>

Burt Thompson

It all started with brisket. I’ve been smoking meat for years, and if you’ve ever prepped a brisket, you know there’s a ton of fat that gets trimmed off. We always tried to find ways to reuse it—mainly for cooking and frying—but we still had so much leftover. That’s when my wife came across the tallow skincare world, and we started looking into it. Read More>>

Shandi Finnessey Higgins

A few years later, married, with 2 young boys and another boy on the way, they yearned for a life where they could safely raise their kids in a community with similar values. So, at the start of the pandemic, in July 2020, they packed their bags for Nolensville and a completely different lifestyle! Not long after arriving, they launched Hive on the Hollow in hopes of helping to bring the community together. Hive on the Hollow, a family centric agri-tourism event space that hosts live music nights, birthday parties, fishing derbies, sound baths, kid’s summer camps and much, much more! Read More>>

Emily Gurklis

NO! It takes a courage to bet on yourself & fully believe in the good things you have to offer.. I’ve certainly faltered at times. It’s tough to start something completely from scratch & promote yourself. The security of a salaried job was tough to part with but having total autonomy over my work, schedule, etc has been so freeing. There have been all kinds of learning curves (Google has been my close friend!) but I’m so proud of the progress we’re making. Read More>>

Colman Connolly’

I was born into a musical family. My dad is a world-class button accordion player from Ireland who has performed with Sting and others, and my mom is a flute player. My dad’s father made button accordions for a living, and his uncle is a renowned fiddle player. On my mom’s side, her uncle, Peter McCann, was a prominent Nashville songwriter. I grew up playing Irish music in pubs and bars with my parents and their Irish music friends, competing in Ireland several times. At 16, I won the International Accompaniment Competition. Read More>>

Friendstore

Our music combines elements of psyche rock, funk, disco, and 80’s new wave. It’s highly experimental, designed to make you do that puppy head tilt thing they do whenever they hear a new sound. We’re just trying to have fun, make some good music, and scratch an itch in people’s brain. Read More>>