Houston Made

Get ready to immerse yourself into the riveting world of art and tattooing with our guest, Mike Ashworth, co-owner of the Advent Tattoo Studio and Art Gallery. Mike's journey from the oil industry to the tattoo world isn't your typical story, and it’s filled with hard work, perseverance, and a solid business mindset that will inspire you. Discover how Mike and his business partner Mike Woods revolutionized the tattoo shop stereotype into a unique atmosphere that combines the art of tattooing and the elegance of an art gallery.

As the episode unfolds, we delve into how technology and popular culture, with shows like Ink Master, have changed the dynamics of the tattoo industry, contributing to its social acceptance and efficiency. Mike brings light to the challenges that come with it - from licensing to determining the service charges. Alongside this, we discuss the importance of passion for art, the hunger for continuous learning, and networking's vital role. Gain insight into his experiences at conventions, the benefits of artist support, and how these platforms serve as a springboard for networking and recruiting new artists.

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Mike Ashworth // Advent Tattoo
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

If you've ever been curious about the authentic, behind-the-scenes journey of entrepreneurship, you're in for a treat. Our guest, Ashley Bird Williams of the League and Hey Bird Williams Consulting, graciously unpacks her vibrant entrepreneurial life and spills the secrets of launching a successful business. Together with her husband, they ventured into the world of entrepreneurship, leaving an investment banking job behind blazing a trail that is both inspiring and enlightening.

Ashley’s unique entrepreneurial perspective is indeed a goldmine of insights. Her discussions on accountability, seeking support, staying true to oneself, and the importance of relationships can help anyone interested in the business world gain invaluable knowledge. From her move to New York to her time on Wall Street, to reconnecting with an old friend after 20 years, Ashley's story is a testament to the power of resilience, trust, and maintaining connections in the entrepreneurial world. So why wait? Tune in for an enlightening experience with Ashley Bird Williams.

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Ashley Williams // The League
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

Join us on an enlightening journey with Leela Madan, the energizing founder of Madan Law PLLC. Transitioning from her role as a corporate chemist to a patent attorney, Leela provides us with an intriguing view into the world of business law, guiding businesses to safeguard themselves from liabilities.

In this compelling conversation, we traverse Leela's unique career path, revealing the power of networking and resilience in business. With her candid and approachable demeanor, Leela shares her strategies for launching her law firm, ultimately attributing her success to her outgoing nature. We explore the concept of paying oneself first and the importance of structuring a competitive compensation package without compromising on a non-toxic work environment. Through Leela's experiences, gain a deep understanding of how a team that shares the same goals can lay the groundwork for a thriving business.

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Leela Madan // Madan Law PLLC
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

Meet Andy Dinh, the man behind the lens at Silent Shutter Media and Andy HD Media. He's not just your regular videographer or photographer; Andy is a producer, a director, and a keen media expert who’s mastered the craft of letting his work communicate his talent. This episode offers a candid conversation with Andy about his journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a successful freelance videographer.

We explore Andy's initial inclination towards photography, his gradual shift to videography, and his perspective on the vast opportunities in the videography field. Andy's humility coupled with his immense contribution to the media world makes this chat an insightful and inspiring one. It's not just about the technicalities of media production; we delve into the passion and dedication driving Andy's success. Tune in to hear Andy's intriguing story and to gain valuable insights from a true media guru. His dedication to his craft makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of media and videography. Tune in and get inspired!

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Andy Dinh // Silent Shutter Media
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

Have you ever wondered how a powerhouse entrepreneur manages multiple successful businesses? In our latest chat, we venture on a journey with the extraordinary Katie Day - realtor, real estate investor, conference planner, social media guru, speaker, and more. 

This episode showcases Katie's career progression: her transition from waitressing in college to a remarkable career in real estate. Katie spills the beans on how she transformed her side hustle with her husband, Ryan, into a full-fledged business and how her brand "Move Me To Texas" came to life. We also delve into her MBA pursuit and her inspiring transition to social media & video creation. So whether you're an entrepreneur or a real estate enthusiast, this episode promises to be an enlightening and entertaining journey!

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Katie Day
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

Do you remember being a child, drawing whimsical creations and letting your imagination run wild? Ace Phoenix, Houston-based muralist, hasn't let go of that magic. In a riveting conversation, Ace takes us on an inspiring journey through her life, sharing the stages of her transformation from a curious child with a love for drawing, to a successful artist and entrepreneur. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, hard work, and risk-taking.

Ace also shares her unique perspective on education, advocating for children to take their own path, not to fear taking risks, and to understand that there are different paths to success. She provides insight into her creative process, sharing her experiences of working with businesses, creating murals and stepping out of her comfort zone to paint cars. Listen as she shares the joy of seeing customers' reactions to her work, and the fulfillment she gets from turning dreams into reality. So, if you're looking for a dose of inspiration or simply want to learn more about the world of art and entrepreneurship, join us for this enriching conversation with Ace Phoenix.

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Ace Phoenix Art
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

We kick off an invigorating conversation with the vibrant Sarah Englade from Monarch Talent Solutions. Sarah's infectious energy and unique approach to relationship-building in recruitment offer a fresh perspective in a competitive industry. She candidly shares her journey from corporate recruiter to entrepreneur; a path strewn with hurdles yet navigated with grace and resilience.

Focusing on the core values of freedom and self-expression, we delve into Sarah's hiring process at Monarch Talent Solutions. She explains how her firm's emphasis on core values helps in fine-tuning the hiring process. The conversation takes an exciting turn as we explore job opportunities in Houston and how Monarch Talent Solutions has carved its niche by providing staffing solutions for accounting, finance and human resource roles. We bring this engaging and insightful conversation full circle with Sarah's thoughts on the importance of freedom, self-expression, and self-awareness in our lives.

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Monarch Talent Solutions
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

This episode reveals the inspiring journey of a 20-year-old barber turned entrepreneur and motivational speaker who's changing the game - Chopped By Rob. We discuss his path to building a name for himself in the saturated realms of barbering and content creation, as well as the hurdles he bravely overcame on his path to success. What's more, Rob shares his unique perspective on vulnerability as an artist, and how embracing it has been instrumental in his growth.

Imagine not just cutting hair, but creating meaningful connections with each client while doing it. That's Rob's world. We go into depth about his content creation journey, his philosophy of taking risks, and the importance of asking questions. We also venture into the less explored aspects of his career, like the significance of tattoos in his life, and how they've become symbolic of his journey. Rob's path hasn't been all rosy though. We discuss the pivotal moment in his senior year economics class that changed his path and the lessons he learned while navigating the financial aspects of running a business. So, tune in to get inspired by Rob's story, one that will surely motivate you on your entrepreneurial quest.

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - ChoppedByRob
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

Journey with us into the culinary world of Chef Courtney Lindsey. From his fascination with vegan cooking to his love for the flexitarian lifestyle, Courtney's culinary tale is an inspiration in itself. We explore the origin of the Houston Sauce Company and Moe Better Brews, and how Chef Courtney harnessed raw vegan dishes, making them deliciously irresistible. Furthermore, we delve into the nitty-gritty of managing partnerships in business and the significance of giving credit where it's due.

Brace yourselves as we uncover life beyond food and business – a tale of overcoming fears and embracing failures, a story of Courtney and Chassidy's transition to veganism and the evolution of their vegan lifestyle business, Moe Better Brews. Together, we discuss their way of tackling challenges, the importance of mentorship and professional services while starting a business and their exciting future plans. 

Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Chef Courtney Lindsay // Mo Better Brews
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC

Season four of our podcast kicks off with a bang, featuring the remarkable Katie Hilburn of Katie Hilburn Interiors. Katie's intriguing journey into the design world is more than just a career switch – it's an exploration into the emotional impact of space, the art of aesthetics, and the intricate aspects of running a design business. Join us as we journey through her move from real estate and media to residential interior design, shedding light on the trials and triumphs that led her to launch her own firm.

Katie’s innovative concept of a 'theology of space' brings a fresh perspective to interior design. We unpack how setting up a home can be a reflection of self-perception and how an inviting space communicates a sense of belonging. We also navigate the nitty-gritty of running a design business, from onboarding clients and creating employee contracts to the essence of building a strong, trusting team. Katie's candid insights about her experiences, growth, and the integral role of a CPA in her business provide a wealth of knowledge for anyone with an interest in the design world.

Finally, we delve into Katie's journey of personal and professional growth, as she shares the story of her first employee who responded to an Instagram story and has since grown into a crucial part of her team. From adjusting to the whirlwind world of design, learning to delegate, and navigating the challenges of managing growth, Katie’s entrepreneurial journey is both inspiring and informative. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or an aspiring business owner, this conversation promises a wealth of insights from the world of interior design to the art of entrepreneurship. Tune in for an episode that's sure to inspire and inform your journey.

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Be sure to follow @houstonmadepodcast on Instagram!

EPISODE CREDITS

Guest - Katie Hilburn // Katie Hilburn Interiors
Produced, and Hosted by Rusty Gates
Special Thanks to Luke Brawner
Music by Old Friends, New Friends
Artwork in collaboration w/ Mac Ryan Creative

© 2023 Rusty Gates Media and Milieu Media Group, LLC