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.

Oludayo Odunfa

Over the course of my career I’ve worked for bosses who ran the gamut from forgettable to life-changing. The difference, I’ve learned, has nothing to do with titles, credentials, or even brilliance. It’s genuine care— the instinct to invest in someone else’s success as fiercely as your own. Read more>>

Ryan Olsen

I used to work as a director of video productions at the corporate office for a large, regional home builder when I lived in the South. I reported directly to the Marketing Director, who was my boss and whose office was right next to mine. She was kind, thoughtful, patient, and most of all, she trusted me. In this day and age, that goes a long way. We mutually respected one another. I respected her tenure and knowledge in the marketing field, and she respected my process and the effort it took to create well-performing videos for their company. I was tasked with creating two to three five-minute videos a week, and briefly, one sixty-second video every day for 60 days. Read more>>

Tracy Daniels

I’m thrilled you asked. As a mentor, leader, and guide, Bret Brummitt has played an instrumental role in shaping my career, and I feel deeply grateful for the opportunity to work for him. Bret has offered the tools, trust, and encouragement needed to achieve my goals. Read more>>

Tiffanie Sneed

I have actually been blessed to have two amazing bosses, and I don’t think I could choose between the two of them. The first was the first Police Chief for whom I ever had the pleasure of working. After almost a year, he convinced me take the position as his police attorney. He was the first person to see something in me that I didn’t see in myself. He not only saw my potential, but he gave me the support and opportunity to learn and grow.. Similarly, my first City Manager always played to my strengths and placed me in positions where I could shine and succeed. Read more>>

Laura Bermejo Abellan

I am truly grateful for each and every boss I ever had. They were all remarkable, each of them in their own way, and all have helped me thrive and be where I am now. I would like, however, to make a special mention to two incredible female bosses who helped me grow and believe in myself all along the way, and from who I keep learning. Read more>>

Jason Ellis

You know, my favorite boss of all time? That was thirty years ago. His name was Calvin, and he was my supervisor back when I worked at Musicland in St. Clair Square. Now, I honestly couldn’t tell you if there’s still a music store in that mall today—probably not, right? But back then, it was the place to be. Read more>>