Deviating from industry norms is one of the most common characteristics we’ve seen among highly successful brands and professionals and so we’ve asked some brilliant folks to give us real life examples of how they do things differently from the industry standard.

Jen De Leon

Since starting JDL Fitness, transitioning from in-house studio management and franchise operations, I’ve been working with a diverse range of clients: from wellness entrepreneurs to activewear brands and hotels. I focus on understanding their needs and helping them grow through sales, customer relations, SOPs, events, and partnerships. With 10+ years of experience as a fitness trainer and operations lead, I offer a practical and effective approach that aligns with my clients’ needs. My background allows me to see both sides of the business, bridging the gap between fitness expertise and operational insight. Read more>>

Lauren Anderson

I think what I bring to the photography/videography industry is a positively twisted point of view. I am more interested in helping a person express who they are in their wildest imagination vs. who they feel they need to present to the world. Read more>>

Dino Bekris

As a Greek living in America I’ve always been fascinated by the development of Greek food both in Seattle, as well as the nation. Having been born in Greece and having maintained a connection to Greece throughout my life has allowed me to see both what is being done abroad and what is being done locally. In years past Greek cuisine has been associated with more traditional oven baked dishes like Mousaka, Pastitsio, roast chicken, lemon roast potatoes etc. These dishes were successfully introduced to American diners during the last major wave of Greek immigration in the 70’s. Read more>>

Massimo Bianco

As the owner of Conejo Valley Online, I take a uniquely hands-on approach to our projects. Unlike many agency owners who delegate most tasks, I am deeply involved in the daily operations and production processes. My role extends beyond oversight; I actively engage in strategizing, implementing, and refining our marketing efforts. This hands-on involvement ensures that every campaign we deliver meets the highest standards of quality and effectiveness. I am the last line of defense, meticulously reviewing our work to guarantee that it aligns perfectly with our clients’ goals and expectations. This commitment to excellence and personal accountability is a cornerstone of our agency’s success. Read more>>

Blair Dixon

Emerging as a smaller, independent artist I have found joy in not just collaborating with larger artists, but also passing the mic and helping to amplify other artists who may not have as substantial a following as others. As a photographer, I have been told time and time again to network and collaborate with other larger, more established artists, rather than focusing on the smaller artists that also have just as much, if not more to offer. I think the thing about working with upcoming artists that is so exciting is that the passion is so fresh and it actually feels mutually beneficial, rather than transactional, all while helping to build a sense of community in the art space. Read more>>

Ivan Illán

Most Americans don’t work with a financial advisor (FA) because typically there’s no definable track record to evaluate their services. In fact, FAs very rarely are able to show prospective clients their specific track record of investment decisions made in and on behalf of their clients’ portfolios. To our knowledge, AWAIM is the only direct retail Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) in Los Angeles that maintains an independently verified performance history on four total portfolio strategies across low to aggressive growth risk profiles. Read more>>

Kimberly Bazan

The whole concept of El Veneno from the beginning was to move away from the standardized image of Mexican food. There is such a lack of representation for our food in the states despite it being one of the most diverse cuisines on the planet. Mexican food as it’s known in the states has been Americanized to the point that no one knows/believes what Mexican food actually is when they see it. So we as a business have decided to focus on bringing actual Mexican flavors, recipes, foods, and traditions to our business. A lot of times things we do can be viewed as non traditional. But I see it as taking a traditional and very important aspect from our culture and presenting it in a new way. A prime example of this is our Black Al Pastor. Read more>>

Frank Dimeo

Many fitness enthusiasts are familiar with treadmills and weight machines While I am thrilled to see people moving their bodies in any way, but there are better ways to train than most people know of. Mace & club training has been around about 3,000 years, but it only started to get some traction in America in the last few years. LIke many innovative fitness trends, this started in California. A whole sub culture has now opted to swings clubs and maces instead of going to the gym. Some different styles have evolved as a result. In January 2016 I created a training system called Mace Fit using steel maces and clubs. From my “old school” warehouse gym in Sarasota, Florida Mace Fit has grown. We are thrilled to be part of this subculture and helping it grow. Read more>>

Mike Flynn

There is so much going on right now at the nexus of technology and music, which is where Ten2 and our new LaunchPad application sits. As we all know, the big headlining trend right now is AI, but crypto was there previously, as was the metaverse, etc. The bleeding edge is exciting and ignites loads of experimentation and long-term thinking, especially in the music industry, about how this technology will impact things in the years to come. Read more>>

Lauren Mcnamee

Being a creator in the Western Industry, you see a lot of the same angles and shots being taken especially in videography. It’s been my goal to set the scene in a more artistic view point, that is appealing to the eye but also focuses on the talent of subject. I’ve been very blessed to be able to capture some of the best in the industry, whether it’s Performance Horses, Ranch Rodeo or Rough Stock Riders. I strive to catch the beautiful moments in these sports and show the talent of their handlers. Read more>>

Jazlyn Figueroa

I founded Fit U Training to break away from the traditional exercise models that were primarily based on decades of research focused on the male body. Instead of adhering to a one-size-fits-all approach, I prioritize tracking my clients’ hormonal cycles to create personalized workout regimens that align with their body’s unique needs throughout the month. Additionally, I offer hormone-balancing protocols for women at all stages of life. It’s been truly transformative to help women across the country achieve their fitness goals by empowering them to understand and harness their bodies’ natural rhythms, no matter the time of the month. Read more>>

Jana Hunter

In a world where consumerism is inevitable, my homewares shop focuses on making consumption thoughtful, slow, and enjoyable. We offer products with unique designs and high-quality materials that enhance daily life—whether it’s a lamp that inspires you to journal, linen napkins that soften over time through many meals, a tray for your cherished items, or a slow-burning candle that invites guests to linger. Each piece is selected for its lasting impact and ability to create meaningful moments. Read more>>