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

Tuere Neeley

The most important lesson or experience that has helped me as a business owner came from when I was employed as a state government worker, during a time when our economy was in a recession and some of the most wealthy people relied on government assistance to make ends meet. Read more>>

Oxana Lovich

The realization that trying to change oneself on a conscious level might be an endless effort with little to no outcomes was a turning point in my professional career. Since the subconscious accounts for at least 95% of your thoughts, feelings, and emotions—and ultimately everything you generate in your life—transforming your subconscious foundation is essential. It was an excellent example in my own life. Read more>>

Corey Hinson

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my career is the value of building strong relationships with business partners and clients. At the end of the day, we’re all people, and taking the time to genuinely connect listening, communicating, and understanding what matters to someone creates trust and makes collaboration smoother. Read more>>

Mallory Knodel

Sitting in a makeshift office in a Brooklyn brownstone, my mentor was deep in discussion just a few feet from my desk (as he usually was!) When he hung up, he gave me some great advice, which for me was during a tumultuous time. We were organizing a two-year movement action that would bring 18,000 activists to Detroit, Michigan. Read more>>

Carolann Jones

I call this my Benny story. Years ago, I landed a job in pharmaceutical sales — a job I never applied for, never sought out, and never even imagined for myself. It was one of those divine-alignment moments where the opportunity found me. They placed me in a territory with negative growth — the kind of territory seasoned reps avoided. Read more>>

Adriana Lopez-Santini

One of the most important lessons I learned in my career came from a period where I was juggling everything, work, family responsibilities, and being the “strong one” for everyone around me. The backstory isn’t glamorous; it was actually one of the hardest seasons of my life. For years, I thought I had everything under control. Read more>>