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.

Michael Locasto

Happiness does not come from our circumstances, it is generated within. So often we put limits on our happiness that we often miss the underlying happiness that is always already here. We say things like, “I will be happy when I am working my dream job or I will be happy when I find my life partner.” Our happiness now becomes codependent on external conditions, which are always changing. Read more>>

Laura Fox-Wallis

Before I became a full time artist, I was a high school art teacher for fifteen years. The hardest part of my job was teaching my students to let go of perfection and see progress as an empowering step to gain knowledge, motivation, and confidence in one’s artwork. When I talk about progress, I am talking about the steps we take to develop our skill and move towards mastery. I found when artists create, the focus tends to be on the end result instead of the journey they took to get there. Read more>>

Jasmine Puga

One of the most important lessons that I had to learn and had to unravel through was that I was failing to appreciate my own significance and undervaluing my skills and talents as a makeup artist. Fear is the most self-destructive emotion anyone could ever possess, it’s untrue and unrealistic. Discovering your true self worth will change your destiny. Read more>>

Stephenie Bjorkman

First off, I never thought I would work in the fine jewelry industry. From the age of 6, I have been a cowgirl to the core. Boots and hat are my style not dresses and high heels. My mom on the other hand is exactly what you think of when you picture a jewelry designer. Creatively dressed, colorful, and loves to show off her gems. My mom Sami, has been in the jewelry industry since her 20’s (she is now 75). Read more>>

Jennifer Weinberg

Years ago, I was the Executive Assistant to the General Manager at Shore Club hotel in Miami Beach. As such, whenever anyone needed anything (from toner for the printer to a special room rate) they would usually come to me. When I was new to the role, I accepted that that was how it was and that I should do everything anyone asked. Read more>>

Mimi K

My main focus as a yoga instructor is working one on one with seniors. It’s my joy to share information and ideas pertaining to body – mind integration. At seventy two I’ve  quickly become aware that maintaining one’s balance is crucial to an extended healthy life. I truly enjoy helping people thrive and in return I am constantly receiving  positive feedback which helps me flourish too. Read more>>

Mike Conaway

I learned that weak leadership leads to dysfunction and chaos. Was part of a staff that had oversight of a board who made really poor decisions. Those poor decision lead to a tremendous financial burden being put on organization. Board thought bringing in new leaders would fix problem (even though problem was the board) and all leaders failed. Read more>>

Amanda Witucki

I’ve always been a good employee-I give 110%, I do my best to learn everything needed to be the best at my job. I always hold integrity at the top of my values. I spent the 17 years prior to my career as an artist in various managerial roles in retail and food service. Read more>>