Experience is often valued because of the lessons prior jobs have theoretically provided us with. While hearing about those lessons isn’t a replacement for actually experiencing it, we thought it would be very helpful to create a space where sharp and generous members of the community can come together to share stories and lessons learned at prior jobs for the benefit of others.

Carrie Holland

I think the most important lesson in my business is listening. As a designer, I strive to create not only a beautiful home but a functional space. Listening to my clients wants and needs is instrumental in how I design a room. For a unique look, I like to incorporate their individual styles, family heirlooms and collections to compose a home that is truly their own. Read more>>

Vanessa James

Prior to owning my own business, I worked incorporate radio and entertainment. As I look back, that career path groomed me in so many ways and there are many lessons and tools that I still use today as an entrepreneur. First – understand early that this is your job not your life. Read more>>

Geoffrey Fuller

Having soft skills such as being kind and patient. These skills enable me to not respond in haste or out of frustration if an interaction with a client or potential client is not going as planned. I can take a beat and respond with kindness, even if I don’t want to do so. Read more>>

Tyra George

The 9-5 I had prior to making the transition to full time entrepreneurship was a beautiful experience. It taught me the importance of a brand, and having great work ethic. It was difficult for me to leave that job, but I knew I needed to jump. Read more>>

Stacy Feinman

We met at a public relations agency in Miami when we were both working for clients in the consumer technology industry. During this time we gained so much valuable information from using the latest databases and software, Read more>>

Melissa Eisler

Before becoming an executive coach, I worked at a tech company leading a large team at a public company. In my eight-year tenure, I had seven different bosses whom were all at the executive level. Read more>>

Andrea Eidelman

I have worked in the non-profit space for over 17 years. As you can imagine, it is incredibly challenging to work in this space as we need to always secure donations and grants for the work being done. Read more>>

Ayanna Jones

The most important lesson and experience I learned from a job that has helped me as a business owner was working as a lead teacher for a daycare. I had to learn to manage a class full of up to 20 children all the while staying on schedule. Time management is something that is imperative to my growth and success in running my business. Read more>>

icole Sanders

I think there are several basic things I learned, such as how to be a self-starter and not require micromanagement. I learned the correct disciplines of showing up on time, how to be a go getter and ‘climb the latter.’ I learned responsibility. Read more>>