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.

Emzy King

I sometimes have to remind myself that I make my living hanging out and drinking with strangers while showing them around my hometown. A gig so cool that when I describe it to people I run into on tour with guests the reaction I often get is incredulity. The simple answer is to not be annoying and to be present. Having OCD and having been a tour guide for years on the barges on the riverwalk I was well versed in general San Antonio history but in all honesty it was my few frustrating years I spent leading Segway tours with small groups that I really honed the interpersonal and storytelling skills required to be able to handle hours hosting and drinking without being annoying or overbearing. Read more>>

Paula Shepherd

The most important lesson I’ve learned that has supported me in my business is to stay steadfast in your vision and let the “how” unfold. In 2013 I made a decision to relocate from Central Maryland to Austin, Texas. There were several challenges – 1) My position could not be performed remotely. Remote work and virtual teams were not as readily available then as they are now, and despite my best efforts I could not find a way to stay with my company and 2) the Austin office did not have positions available. I was devastated because I loved my job and my team, but I knew moving to Austin supported my future vision. Read more>>

Yolanda Vallier

Prior to launching Styled and Staged Spaces, which is an Interior Design and Staging company, I worked many years in sales. In all the different sales environments I lent my skills to, there was a common thread of expectations. Set goals, hunt for new business, create a sales funnel, build client relations and close deals! I found out early on that regardless of what product or service I was selling, every step in this process was extremely germane to my overall success in sales. Read more>>

Russell Forsyth

In early 2006, I was at the peak of a personal transformation that had begun with the new millennium. The transition away from a 33-year career as a Historic Restoration Contractor had been more seamless than anyone could imagine. I was leaving a lucrative, male-dominated sector of business crossing a bridge to a new career as an intuitive reader, life coach, inventor and operator of a Crystal Light Table, and developer of an online training program. I quickly found demand for my intuitive readings and energy-related services. Read more>>