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.

Courtney Valentine

As someone who spent many years working for others in this industry, I quickly learned I was doing a lot of work for others to make profit. Although I believed I was valued, over time, it became clear I was cheap labor. It took me years to understand that you have to know your worth. Read more >>>

Benjamin Crotte

I worked as a School-Based Therapist and Supervisor of School-Based Day Treatment programming for the first few years of my career. Over the years, I began to recognize various problems related to the treatment of direct service employees, their retention and the resulting negative impacts these had on client continuity of care, access to care and quality of care. Read more >>>

Aubrey Hunt

I have learned many things over my 25 year career. I have learned the following: No matter how hard you work, you are always replaceable. Use your vacation/sick time as needed. Take care of yourself so you can show up for others. I was laid off after suddenly losing my dad to suicide. Read more >>>

Monica Bergquist

Originally, I pursued a traditional career path in Dietetics. After completing my graduate program in Nutritional Science, I began working in a large medical facility, believing that the key to helping others lies in education and access to information. In other words, providing tools to improve physical health. But during my time working with patients, I discovered something deeper. Read more >>>

Christina Hunt

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my career is that relationships are everything. Titles change, companies evolve, and jobs come and go — but the people you meet along the way often end up shaping your journey far beyond what you realize in the moment. Early in my career, I worked at Under Armour during a really exciting time for the brand. Read more >>>