Doing things differently often leads to outsized results and so we connected with some of the most inspiring leaders and trailblazers we know and asked them to go into detail about what they do differently relative to others in their industry.

April Nowlin

Prenatal ultrasounds are an essential part of a healthy pregnancy journey. And regular visits to maternity professionals such as an OB/GYN are vital to the health of mommy and baby. Parents-to-be often visit the Little Buns Ultrasound and Baby Boutique studio because we offer a more personalized and intimate experience compared to a doctor’s office. Unlike medical settings, our studio is designed to create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, allowing parents to enjoy high-definition images and videos of their baby in real time with their family and friends. Read more>>

Chandrell Stephens

In the cleaning industry, it is notorious for low wages, spotty cleaning, and high turnover. We are challenging the current norm by offering better wages to our cleaners while still remaining competitive in the market. Our customers are delighted to work with is because the rate is justified in the quality and convenience of our services. Read more>>

Chris Kirkegaard

I like to encourage my clients to participate in the process of making pieces of History, referencing the beauty, integrity and craftsmanship of the past as a foundation for our project together. Variables for a frame can come about through discussion of their travel, museums they’ve visited and seen something remarkable, or even a favorite author or book. I don’t burden the design session with this, just a quick chance to hear how they describe details, etc. Read more>>

Chyna Boseman

I knew when I first thought of opening my own business I wanted my brand to be unique. Working in the beauty industry already comes with its own standards, and it’s hard to tell the difference between one from the other. What sets me apart is my desire to stay true to myself 100% in all aspects of my business. I make a promise to my clients to deliver the best possible service and spa experience. In order to accomplish that, I must be authentic and genuine at all times. Read more>>

Eddie Smith

Yes!!!!!!! I focus on Developing and working with talented individuals. We work within an industry often saturated with fleeting trends and surface-level success. There’s an immense value in seeking out and nurturing real talent. By aligning myself with artists who bring authenticity, who’s creative and brings depth to their craft, I not only set myself apart but also contribute to the longevity and cultural richness of the music industry. Read more>>

Gabrielle Johnson

At Esthetiques by Elle, what truly sets us apart from the industry standard is the level of personal care and attention we give to every individual who books a service. In an industry where beauty services can sometimes feel rushed or impersonal, I believe that true beauty emerges when we create a space of genuine connection and care. Read more>>

Geoffrey Calhoun

When I first started screenwriting, the industry was tough—brutal, even. I sought feedback from so-called experts and professional screenwriting gurus of the time, hoping for insightful notes to help me improve. Instead, I was hit with harsh, personal attacks. I was told I didn’t have what it takes and that I should quit. It was nothing short of bullying, and to make it worse, I had actually paid for this “advice.” Read more>>

Joannah Hillebrandt

I have a very niche direction with my vintage brand. I’m all about elevating Gen X brands and have a whimsical enough history with them and eye for quality styles to resurrect some really special pieces. What I love about what I do, is that I am able to elevate some second-hand items, attracting a customer base to a sustainable marketplace who may not have otherwise arrived there. By investing the time and effort in the search for my items, then lifting them up by repairing and/or altering them, they become new again. But with all that yummy history and LUV, making second-hand pieces some of their favorites. Read more>>

Liz Johnson

Most marketing firms require clients to sign a one-year contract for services. I believe we need to earn our clients’ business every day and we do. For 21 years, since I founded Mountain View Marketing, we have never had a client contract. Our clients stay with us because of the return on investment (ROI) we deliver and the exceptional client experience we provide. We have clients who have been with Mountain View Marketing almost since we opened our doors 21 years ago. Read more>>

Madison Somerville

At Madison Avery Studio, our approach to executive photography is what sets us apart. We believe that humans ultimately buy from other humans, not from fancy websites or flashy images. You are the secret sauce in your business. To show that, we help individuals and small firms build a memorable online presence.  We place the individual at the center of all the photographs we create. For many of our clients, their people are their competitive advantage. We make sure they look their best and that the business has visual consistency. Read more>>

Mike Schwaab

We’re always working towards curating a hospitality experience that is location-specific to Waco Surf. This runs through everything we do, from our hotel towel quality to our surf wave settings – every decision we make is based on what we want our guests (and staff) to experience while on-site with us. Having a wide variety of activities including the waterpark and the cable park also allows us to introduce surf culture to guests who may have never been around it before, and it is incredibly contagious once you experience it! Read more>>

Nicole Burgio

Here at Mom With a Mop Cleaning Service, LLC we specialize in green cleaning but with increasing environmental awareness, many customers prefer companies that use eco-friendly products. It shows our commitment to health and sustainability, appealing to environmentally-conscious clients. We also offer customizable cleaning plans because personalized service can meet specific needs and preference, leading to higher customer satisfaction and retention. Using high-quality, non-toxic products are safer for families and pets, which can be a significant selling point for households with children or animals. Read more>>

Nikki La Croce

Our business, Full Spectrum Friends, breaks the mold when it comes to building a membership community. While many businesses now include a community component in their offerings, people are typically drawn in by a common interest, which doesn’t guarantee alignment in the areas essential for building deep bonds with one another. These interest-based communities have certainly proven to be effective in bringing people together, but we have yet to see a business that focuses on helping people cultivate strong support systems in the way that Full Spectrum Friends does. Read more>>

Nyanah Shuler

I find that my business differs from others in my industry as a braider because I care about the integrity of my clients hair and not just the perfection of a hairstyle. When i started my brand my main goal has always been not only to produce amazing looking styles with longevity but to also educate my client on the best ways to maintain and promote growth with their protective styles. I do this by educating my clients on how to maintain moisture and apply products to their style as well as the best method and time frame to remove said style. Read more>>

Paul Carpenter

Where do I begin? I mean, with over 27 years of marketing experience, I’ve been a part of marketing efforts that have spanned from pre-Internet days (Direct Mail), to the early days of digital, to the maturation of social media, video production, and even virtual reality. All the while, the industry seemed to get more and more transactional — especially at the larger, holding company agencies who profit from being more media-driven (bots) than they do by using their imagination. Read more>>

Stella Payton

I pray. Read more>>

Tanya-marie Dubé

As a mentor in my niche, I often talk about how essential spiritual practices and an understanding of adversity on a soul path is essential to our sustainable, long-term transformation. Read more>>

Whitney Shea

One of the biggest things we try do accomplish at Green Space is creating a positive customer experience. We want everyone to leave feeling like they’re leaving a second home. A warm welcome, friendly greetings, providing valuable knowledge and answers to questions, and going above and beyond to help. One thing I love the most is helping customers with their heirloom plants. It is a frequent occurrence for us to receive parts and pieces of a family members plant that is in need of a rescue. I love that we are able to step in to help! The joy it brings our customers to see their plants revived is pure magic. Read more>>