Houston fitness coach and U.S. Navy veteran Fenix Shepard knows what it means to completely transform your life. After losing 70 pounds and rebuilding her strength and confidence, she now helps others discover what they’re capable of. Then there’s Mark Ackley, a U.S. Marine veteran, former athlete and cancer survivor whose life was changed by Stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and a serious back injury that left him struggling with his mobility. When Mark met Fenix, he gave her one very specific goal: help him get strong enough to scuba dive again. Twelve weeks later, he was back on the water. Now, the two Houston veterans are sharing their stories of resilience, the importance of having a goal and why a setback doesn’t have to be the end of your story.

Houston photographer Violeta Álvarez joined Houston Life to share “Casa de Cultura,” a free Fresh Arts Gallery exhibition at Sawyer Yards running July 9–August 22. The show begins with “Luz y Sombra", her iconic music photography then becomes “Con Sangre y Corazón,” a live, interactive archive where visitors can contribute portraits, Polaroids, and handwrite family stories on the gallery walls.

On Houston Life, we discovered how one man’s journey after the Vietnam War became a true example of the American Dream. Meet Mr. Tai Nguyen, the father half of the father-son duo behind Mr. Tai Chili Garlic Flakes. Decades of working in convenience stores shaped his work ethic, cooking skills, and led him to create his unique take on the centuries-old Asian staple, chili garlic oil.

As the nation is reflecting on the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter, one Houstonian is sharing his connection to the late president. Greg Audel, a storyteller, former radio host, and avid Houston Life viewer stopped by with his incredible story on how the two connected and how he says President Carter's kindness meant so much to a lost child trying to navigate life after his parents' divorce.

For one local business, family runs deep. In fact, it's the heart and soul of their business.

It’s a Houston tradition that unofficially kicks off the holiday season for many shoppers.

The Houston Plant Market is hosting its annual HallowGreen Market at M-K-T.

Judi Gevara, with Bloomsake, shows Houston Life hosts, Derrick Shore and Tessa Barrera, how to make a ring crystal using dried flowers.

Every year the Houston Chronicle hosts its “Best of the Best” competition - where Houstonians get to vote on their favorite businesses. And we weren't surprised to hear the news that this year, our friends at Texas Mattress Makers once again took the top spot in their category.

The power behind giving back and doing good in the community.

The multi-talented Nate Edwards is a dear friend of today’s Celebrity Guest Co-Host Kam Franklin! We chatted about his career in filmmaking, upcoming projects, and what it’s like working with many celebrity A-listers and popular brands.

Learn about the Houston business offering locally made furniture and custom pieces at affordable prices.

Looking to spruce up your home for the holidays? The experts at Living Designs Furniture can help.

She was left without one arm after being attacked by a rottweiler in her own home back in 2017.

His life story will be turned into a movie produced by Sylvester Stallone

Meet Faith Lee