We asked some brilliant entrepreneurs, artists and creatives to reflect on lessons they’ve learned at prior jobs. We’ve shared highlights below.

Paige Clabo

I had the honor of working as a performer for almost 10 years in my 20s. Something I learned very quickly in the industry was that there was always going to be someone just as talented as you, so I made it my goal not to be outworked by anyone. Read more>>

lauren lerner

Working in retail shaped me in ways that go far beyond selling products. It taught me how to run a business by focusing on people first. I learned that customer service isn’t just about transactions, it’s about creating trust and delivering an experience, which is the same mindset I bring to every client relationship today. Read more>>

Veronica (Ronnie) Soria

I have spent an amazing 40 years working for very streamlined institutions. Throughout my 40-year government career (20 years in the military and another 20 in federal service) the most important lesson I learned was how to truly talk to people. Read more>>

Andi Manes

Before starting my own business as a REALTOR® and designer, I led a nonprofit that served as the umbrella organization for the community’s chamber of commerce, tourism bureau, economic development arm, and even some Main Street responsibilities. Our mission was broad—we ran events, recruited and retained businesses, and advocated for them at the local, state, and federal levels. Read more>>

Rachel Ogden

Before opening my own Acton Academy I worked at another Acton in California called Acton Academy Placer. In the past I had always worked with people who had similar backgrounds and life experience. While working at Acton Placer the other guides were from different states, had different religious views, political views etc. Read more>>

Robert Rodriguez

Best lesson that I learned while working a job when I was younger is that you cannot be afraid to make mistakes. I worked for a company as a project manager prior to becoming a business owner and while working there I had the opportunity to learn from a talented PM named Cory. Read more>>

Taylor Stone

So while I was taking acting classes pursuing my main goal of acting, I also started PA’ing on sets to understand the rhythm of “behind the camera.” I thought I was just signing up to carry walkies and haul trash, but instead I climbed my way into coordinator, associate producer, and eventually producer roles. Read more>>

CD Corrigan

I’ve moved through a lot of different fields over the past decade and a half–everything from Fortune 500 industrial work to failed startups and self publishing. The biggest stumbling block I’ve seen people trip over in that time is always some version of “but I don’t know how to do that.” Read more>>