We connected with some of the most resilient folks in the community and one of the most insightful questions we had an opportunity to ask centered around whether there was ever a time they almost gave up. Highlighting some of the responses below.
Patrick Letts
I started Crab Kickers over 10 years ago and we have been successful especially after Covid. But I’ve been going through a divorce since April 2023 (just ended July 2025). Read more>>
Chris Landers
Yes. Starting a ceramic studio and making a living as a potter is incredibly hard, there are very few models to look to, both in terms of business structures and role models. I had to figure almost everything out on my own. For years I worked practically around the clock just to survive. Read more>>
IAHIAL
There were multiple times I did give up. My 3rd album “She called it noise” was named after a moment that impacted me so deeply, I stopped singing. It saddened me to think someone heard the song of my soul and experienced it as noise. Read more>>
Christen Johnson
Oh yes, I can recall multiple moments when I almost gave up. When I first transitioned into personal styling and was trying to find my footing, when all my consistent clients suddenly disappeared, and even when I had no job and no money to keep my business running, I felt ready to throw in the towel. Read more>>
Abdur-Rahman Quadri
Yes. My first event nearly broke me. I’d only shot portraits up to that point—about three months into photography—when I took on an event. I worked hard, stayed late, delivered everything I had…and the client still wasn’t happy. It crushed me. I honestly considered quitting. But that moment taught me the biggest lesson of my career: communicate expectations upfront. Read more>>
Saku Singletary
In 2023 when my marriage ended and I lost my granddaughter then moved away was the first time I was all alone and had thoughts of ending my life. In that moment my sister Fudge called me and helped me to realize that I had a lot of life left to live. So I live it to the fullest! Read more>>
Lauryn Scriber
Yes, I still sometimes get in my head but I know it’s just me getting in my own way pushing for perfection rather than consistency. This is something I still am currently working through daily. Read more>>
Monnie DaDoll
Everyday! Everyday I “almost” give up but when it’s not even an option, you can’t. Domino Effect meaning if I do give up everybody and everything I built behind me will fall. Read more>>
