Many business owners we’ve spoken with didn’t start with a huge team on day one. They had to learn how to be a good boss, but the problem is the books on leadership are often highly theoretical and so we wanted to hear practical examples of what it means to be a good boss. So, we asked some brilliant, insightful folks to share stories about the best bosses they’ve had.

Suzanne Reed Fine

I have been fortunate to have a number of amazing bosses throughout my career. When I was starting out as a graphic designer in Denver, my supervisor, Jeanne was the go to person for the entire company. She kept the business running smoothly, efficiently and made it look effortless. Her first objective in being a strong leader was taking an interest in people. She respected everyone from clients to her workers and knew that the success of the business was dependent on every person. Read more>>

Kelli Bock

Jerry Pitzer began our advocate program years before we became a non-profit organization. I remember him asking me to join the team when I had zero ambition in being involved in the business world. I was a foster mother with a lot of passion for change, but I had no voice in the grand scheme of it all. He brought me on with little to no knowledge of the statutes and laws of Florida. I had a mere three years under my belt of being a foster parent (compared to his 20+), and I was surrounded by folks whom had climbed the ladders for decades. Read more>>

Breeanna Farmer

I got my first job in high school.. which was actually working for my dad at a local restaurant! Initially I was hired on to host, then later learned to serve (even though I was terrified of the idea at first) and ended my career there as a shift supervisor shortly before moving away for college. My dad was the best boss I’ve ever had, not only because he was my dad, but because he expected your work to be done well and for you to be doing something productive while you were on the clock. The motto that we often joke about now was, “if you have time to lean, you have time to clean.” Read more>>

David Grissom

The best boss I ever had was Texas singer songwriter Joe Ely. I toured the world and made 5 records with Joe. He personifies what it means to be a true artist. His work ethic, encouragement and belief in me were invaluable lessons that helped shape my career path. I watched Joe stay true to his creative vision and make artistic decisions that have enabled him to maintain a vibrant career to this day. On one of my first tours in Europe we were playing a club in a small town in Germany. Read more>>

Keela Johnson

I definitely feel that I have experienced a “diamond in the rough” when it comes to having an amazing boss. Lindsey (Ryan & Rose) has always been so selfless and giving when it comes to her employees. She loves God, and you can feel it and see it in everything that she does. She gives so many gifts and surprises randomly throughout the year JUST BECAUSE. And truly, amazing gifts. Last year she gave away a car to a new mom, gave away Disney trips, and so much more – and those gifts were to customers! She has been an amazing woman to look up to not only spiritually but also in the business world. Read more>>

Taylor Berryman

The greatest leader I have ever met was a man named Gil Buthlay, a retired Navy admiral, He owned BEK, an IT shop in my hometown of Brunswick, Maine. Up until working at BEK, I had always worked retail gigs – grocery stores, big box stores, music stores etc. I started out at BEK as an intern. Eventually, I got hired by BEK as a salesperson. It was my first foray into a professional sales world. I was slinging copiers and making cold calls. I absolutely loved it. I was hooked. I learned from Gil because he led by example – he put a strong value on people, morals, and fairness. Read more>>

Dri Jack

During my final semester at Georgia State University, I had to intern for a music venue or music executive for the last credit of my degree in Music Management. I had the pleasure of interning at City Winery Atlanta under the booking manager, Rodney Stammel. He has been the most influential mentor in the music business I have had thus far. Although I love working behind the scenes, I was still very adamant about performing and never let Rodney forget that. Read more>>

Amber Graham

The best boss that I’ve ever had was when I lived in Cleveland, Ohio working at a high school. The school leader, Brittiany pushed me to do things that I expressed interest in but was afraid to do. She spoke to me out of love and always spoke life into me and my goals. Brittiany helped shaped me into a leader and I believe that’s the true definition of a leader, preparing others to lead. I attribute much of my growth to her and her guidance. Read more>>

Daijranae McCloud

This may seem crazy to admit, but this person has helped me in many ways throughout my whole art and writing journey. And that person is Latasha Frye, my mother. I call her my ‘Momager’. She is one of the only few that really believe I have a real talent in this industry of art. Since the beginning she’s helped me set up for showcases, gives criticism and ideas when needed, and always encouraged me when I feel insecure about my work. I appreciate her for the past few years of love and care for my craft. Read more>>