Society has its myths about where we learn – internships, books, school, etc. However, in our conversations with some of the most interesting and trailblazing entrepreneurs and creatives we noticed the biggest lessons they learned about work often came from unexpected sources. We’ve shared some of those responses below.
Lisa Summers
My late mother, Mary Brown, taught me everything I know about hard work and breaking barriers. She never let challenges define her, she showed me how to rise above them. Back in the 70s, she completed a year at Harvard Business School while raising a toddler, and later returned to Baltimore to finish her MBA at Loyola. Read More>>
Samantha Wal
Definitely my dad. I have always had a more creative brain and been one to start multiple projects at a time like a constant juggling act. My dad has always been a numbers guy, and someone who won’t stop until his work is done. He has taught me a lot about perseverance, adaptability and confidence. Read More>>
Emilie Schiller
Definitely my mom. She’s retired now (although that took some time!), but watching her work while I was growing up was incredibly formative. She was a teacher, and one of the things I remember was at the beginning of every school year, she would call all her students’ parents and introduce herself to them. Read More>>
Taylor Tefft
Growing up I always saw my family working. My parents always worked full time jobs and did enough to make ends meet. I don’t think I really understood work until I opened up my own business and realized what it actually takes to get your name out there and grow. Read More>>
Dave Neith
My father, Richard Neith, taught me the most about work—though not through lectures or lessons. I just watched him. For years, he commuted to D.C. to work for the Secret Service, waking up at 4 a.m. every day without fail. Then he’d come home and still find time to play catch, coach my little league teams, or fix something around the house. Read More>>
Shareeda Bennett
Without a doubt — my mother. Growing up, I watched her work multiple jobs just to make ends meet. She was tired, stretched thin, and had every reason to slow down — but she never did. She showed up, gave 100%, and carried herself with strength, grace, and pride. Read More>>
