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

Andrew Nunes

I started in cold calling, sales and customer support and then moved on to human resources and accounting. I had a myriad of jobs throughout my twenties and would not trade that time and experience for anything. Yes, some of those sales jobs were absolutely miserable. Trying to create sales from nothing, cold calling prospective clients who would often hang up on me, and trying to stay positive all the while was huge for my mental health. Those sales jobs taught me no doesn’t always mean no forever, sometimes it is just a slower yes. Read more>>

Luz Zambrano

One of the most important lessons I learned as an entrepreneur came from my experience creating and running Made In Mayhem, my first brand. After working in the footwear industry for over a decade, I was eager to build something of my own. I dove into designing premium leather goods, carefully crafting each piece and focusing on quality. But something essential was missing—a distinct reason for being. The question I kept asking myself was, “Why would someone choose my brand over another?” Read more>>

Katie Hinderer

I’ve had a lot of bad or not-so-great bosses over the years as I tried to find my lane. At the time they all felt really overwhelming and frustrating, but now I see them as a gift that has allowed me to become the kind of boss I would like for my employees. Read more>>

Sha Lee

One of the most valuable lessons I learned in my career came from my time working in healthcare, particularly with the geriatric population. I learned that a truly positive work environment stems from having a team that feels genuinely valued and respected. Being around people who may be in the last stages of their lives taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and, most of all, the need to lead with compassion. Read more>>

Amelia May

The most important lesson I have learned in my career as a physical therapist was the defining moment(s) of when I realized what type of healthcare provider I wanted to be. Let me explain… My first job out of school was just that – a job. I needed to start making money ASAP after being in undergrad/grad school for 7 years and I was eager to use all of my skills and knowledge obtained during PT school and my internships, so I choose the my first job pretty quickly. It seemed like a good fit at first; mentorship hours promised to facilitate my learning and growth as a professional, getting to participate at a local high school on the sidelines for their sports teams, and a sign-on bonus to sweeten the deal. Well 9 months later, COVID hit, and I was furloughed from that job purely due to being the newest team member. Read more>>

Kadra Nevitt

All of my prior jobs have helped me with one major component, people! Growing up I was homeschooled so I was rather shy in bigger social situations. I was not good at sports but I loved art. As a teen my mom fully supported my art as a future job/ income goal. My parents helped me create a booth, order print reproductions of my work and hauled me to rodeos and shows in mostly the western US, since we lived in Washington state. This pushed my shyness into the background, I was asked questions and as this was my artwork I was in my “ comfort zone “. At 19 however I married and 15 years of struggle ensued. I nearly gave up on my art. We did divorce and I don’t blame him, I blame myself for making a decision that was wrong, simple as that. Read more>>