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.

Laura HS Collins

4 years ago, I met my former boss, Mickey Correa. I was 44 years old. We had a weekly check-in where at some point he would say, “I want you to trust in your experiences and use your voice. You have knowledge and wisdom that needs to be heard, You are the Clinic Director, this is your clinic. You are a Woman of Color, a mother, a former elite athlete, a veteran clinician, I want you to trust in yourself and do what you think is best.” Not just once. Nearly every week. Read more>>

Heather Hawthorne

I became an LMT in 1997 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. In 1998, in addition to operating a full time massage therapy practice, I started working on luxury charter yachts as an independent massage therapist. This took me around the world and allowed me to work with some very interesting, prolific and high-profile clients. I became very busy with this and then formed a company, Charter Spa Services, which placed other LMT’s onboard luxury charter yachts internationally. One of the yacht management companies I regularly worked for contacted me when one of their VIP clients needed a masseuse onboard their yacht. Read more>>

Megan

I’ve been fortunate to have several incredible bosses and mentors who have shaped my leadership style. One taught me the art of compartmentalizing networking opportunities at events, helping me be fully present in each interaction while still building lasting connections. Another mentor showed me that outstanding leadership involves encouraging authenticity, granting creative freedom, and avoiding micromanagement. Instead of micromanaging, I learned to be a “microknower” who understands the details without controlling them. This trust empowered me to exceed my goals and even earn news coverage for my work. Additionally, one mentor provided a timeless reminder: don’t take things personally, even if they feel personal. These lessons have profoundly influenced how I lead and support my team. Read more>>