Who taught you the most about work?

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.

Carly Stone

My family has taught me the most about work ethic. My grandparents all had their own businesses and so growing up with that model of entrepreneurship really shaped me. Seeing them achieve success running their companies made me believe that I could too. My parents were also extremely supportive and encouraged me to chase my dreams and pursue a job doing what I love. Read more>>

Ryan Thomas

The person who taught me the most about work is myself. Over the years, I’ve learned through experience—both good and bad—that knowing your worth is essential. I taught myself that I deserve to be treated with respect, to be compensated fairly for my time and talent, and to never allow disrespect to become normalized in any professional space. Read more>>

Tatiana Fedotova

When it comes to learning, I admire my teachers. My first magic teacher was Mark Wilson, the first major television magician. Mark and his wife, Nani Darnell, who assisted with many of his tricks, taught me the basics of magic and helped me discover my specialty. My second magic teacher was Brian Gillis. He was Johnny Carson and Johnny Depp’s favorite magician. Read more>>

Caroline Stephen

I’ve learned the most about work by watching the women around me, particularly those who were never formally recognized for the labor they performed. Growing up, I saw how much energy was spent on holding things together behind the scenes: maintaining appearances, managing emotions, keeping everyone else comfortable. It wasn’t framed as work, it was just expected. Read more>>

Kaila Banks

My mother taught me the most about work. She was a craps and black jack dealer in the brightest and most beautiful hotels in Vegas and Atlantic City. At least that’s what I remember as a kid. I watched my mother come home from work late and leave early in the mornings to provide for our family. There is nothing I wanted for. Read more>>

Michelle Nava

Peter Alford is My Mentor. He has been doing hair for about 50 years. I trained under him when i was in my early 20s. He taught me that through hard work and discipline i could accomplish anything. He is a perfect example of someone who is self made. He shaped me and turned me into a true Professional. Read more>>

Isaac Brynjegard-Bialik

There’s an incredible song by Ookla the Mok called ‘Super Powers.’ Yes, I’m a big nerd, but it really does encapsulate how I feel about my work and my passion. ‘I got bitten by a radioactive bug / I tried an experimental drug / I went out for a stroll on a gamma testing range / … Read more>>