Parents teach us many things including how to be a parent. We can learn from their mistakes, sure, but we can also learn a lot from the things they got right. We asked successful entrepreneurs and creatives to open up to us about their parents and what they felt their parents got right.

Olowo-N’djo “Olo” Tchala

My parents did many things right, but what stands out most is the way my mother shaped our character. She raised us with humility, a sense of hard work, and a spirit of giving—even when we had very little ourselves. Read more>>

Mary Tubach

My parents never told me I couldn’t do something because ‘it was too much’ or because ‘I was a girl’. I literally took on as much as humanly possible growing up between sports, activities, and school. And I was the type of kid who wanted to try EVERYTHING. Read more>>

Helena-Alexis Seymour

My parents have done everything right! My mom is Greek and my dad is Caribbean. They met on vacation and fell in love although there were several odds against them. Their story of how they overcame those obstacles for love sticks with me that whatever is meant to be, will be. Read more>>

Angela Katherine Baker

My mother was the first director I ever encountered in the theatre. She was not only my mother, but she introduced me to my passion for performing. She took me to voice lessons, dance lessons, and piano lessons. She would bring me as a little girl to the theatre for musical rehearsals and shows. Read more>>

Frantz G Hall

Honestly, that’s such a big question. My relationship with my parents had its challenges. They definitely weren’t the most encouraging or supportive, and at times their high expectations and controlling nature was a bit overwhelming. Read more>>

Ashley Vicari

I would describe my mother as a free spirit. She opened her own company when I was in high school and I saw how she poured into the work she did. She always believed that the work would come and for years she took care of my sister and I solely on her business income. Read more>>

Ty McBride

The best thing my parents did for me was let me be me. They supported me and guided me, but never tried to change me. Having that type of support in my corner makes it easier to go through every aspect of life because I know that I am never alone. Read more>>

Susie Linquist

Both of my parents played an integral role in me building a career I love. My dad was the hardest working man I’ve ever known, but he didn’t love his job—in fact, he hated it. Read more>>

Chelsea O’Donnell

My parents have always been incredibly support of my pursuits and never discouraged me. From a young age I felt like my creative aspirations were heard and recognized instead of being dismissed. Read more>>