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

Max Sarlis

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my career as a physical education teacher came from an early experience in my first year of teaching. I was working with a diverse group of students, many of whom had varying levels of physical ability and interest in sports. One student, in particular, stood out—a shy, reluctant participant who rarely engaged in activities. This presented a challenge: how could I ensure all students felt included and motivated, regardless of their skill levels? Read more>>

Kelly Roehm

The most important lesson I learned in my career, and one I carry with me as a business owner, is the power of being my own advocate. Early in my career, I was in a role where I was doing exceptional work, taking on extra projects, and driving meaningful outcomes for the organization. But somehow, when it came time for promotions or recognition, I found myself waiting for someone else to notice my contributions. That moment of frustration and reflection was pivotal. Read more>>

Kayla Compton

Prior to owning Cardinal Interiors, I worked for an Interior Designer and apprenticed under her for a couple of years before becoming a designer on her team. I had no prior experience in Interior Design, so learning under her was like drinking from a firehose. I absorbed everything she taught me and studied every decision she made like a sponge – really attempting to hone in on the craft. After a while, I became extremely trusted because I knew how the designer would handle situations, what she would choose and why she would choose it. I asked tons of questions and never shied away from getting my hands dirty. Those years were absolutely crucial to my growth as a designer. Read more>>

Allan Weitz

One of my early mentors – B.Martin Pedersen, gave me sage advice about organizing my portfolio before heading out to show a potential client my work. Marty told me he reviews dozens of portfolios every week, and while he spends ample time looking at the best work in each portfolio, he is also looking out for the weakest sample in the book. Why? Because even though the individual presenting the work might very well be capable of producing extraordinary work, the weakest sample in the book illustrates how ‘less-than-terrific’ the person considers acceptable, i.e., ‘good enough’. And as Marty made very clear from the start, “I don’t want ‘good enough’… I only want the best.” Read more>>

Carissa Stallbories

One important lesson I learned early in my career was the value of effective communication. Before, it was easy to assume that everyone understood my ideas and intentions. However, I realized that miscommunications led to confusion and inefficiencies. By actively seeking feedback, clarifying my messages, and encouraging open dialogue, I not only improved client relationships but I also enhanced my skills. This lesson taught me to be more empathetic and understanding, allowing me to build stronger relationships with my clients. Today, I prioritize communication in every step of my planning process with clients, fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Read more>>

Gabby Rosely

One of the most pivotal lessons I’ve learned as a business owner is the power of saying yes before you feel fully ready, trusting that everything is figureoutable. This mindset was born out of necessity during my very first corporate job at Goldfish Swim School. Fresh out of college, I was offered a management role—my first real taste of the corporate world. The position required me to perform a lot of “firsts”. One of those “firsts” being my first time interviewing, hiring, and training an entire staff in preparation for our grand opening – all while learning the ins and outs of a brand-new company. To say I felt overwhelmed would be an understatement. I had minimal experience in hiring, let alone training and managing a team. But I said yes, not because I felt prepared, but because I believed I could figure it out. Read more>>

Jack Olea

My prior job before became a business owner was fundamental to achieve such title in my present. I worked 3 years for a construction company that had been stablished for 10 years in the area. One of my uncles still being the general supervisor for that company so he was the one that got me that job when I moved in to the big city. I had my goals and my plan really stablished so for those 3 years I stayed focus on that. The first year I focused on learn how to do any job and any task. I focused on learn each of any construction craft and skill so I put my tool belt on and by the end of that year I was a skilled carpenter. Read more>>

Cheryl Sullivan

With my pretty much lifelong career as a front line social worker I could tell you stories for days. During my time on the front lines, I worked directly with families in emergency situations, who were experiencing some of the most traumatic situations within their own lives which brought them to the attention of state Social Services. As part of my role, I would have direct responsibility for making decisions that could have a major impact on these families lives, All this coupled with a system that doesn’t necessarily have the funding, direct support or understanding of what is really needed for the unique needs of people that are in the thick of these troubling times. Read more>>

Leah Geslois

Prior to founding Motion Virtues Aerial Arts, I owned and operated a massage therapy business. One of the most important lessons I learned came from the eight years I spent running this practice on my own. While I’m proud of what I accomplished during that time, I eventually realized how difficult it was to manage everything on my own. That experience taught me the value of having a supportive community, even when it comes to career growth. I also learned that staying inspired in the work itself is key to maintaining motivation and continuing to grow a business. Over time, I found myself losing that sense of inspiration, which really highlighted how crucial it is to not only love what you do but also to surround yourself with people who encourage you to keep evolving. Read more>>