We asked some of the brightest folks in the community to open up to us about the most important lesson their business or career has taught them. We’ve highlighted some of those responses below.

Tyler Tapley | Real Estate Broker

I learned to treat everyone fairly and honestly. You never know how other people will be able to help you in the future. When I was 22 and recently graduated from college (and looking for a job), several power brokers, developers, and high profile business men and women met with me. I was always treated with grace, patience, and humility. Read more>>

Luke Sherman | Senior Vice President – Folds of Honor

Always doing the right thing. Even at times when doing so was either “unpopular” or a significant task. In leadership, people expect leaders to have all the answers and solutions. I believe it isn’t as much having all the answers but ensuring your people that they know you will do the right thing and will FIND the pathway through the problems and tasks – even at the expense of your time and well-being. Read more>>

Tomicka Brooks | Cake Artist and Creative

The most important lesson my business has taught me was, never give up on myself and what really brings me joy. My business has always been my happy place. There have been times where I wanted to stop creating and give up doing one of the few things that makes me happy. Read more>>

Angela Brown | Hair Coach/ Hair Loss Specialist/Product Developer

The most important lesson that I have learned, is patience, and a true understanding of marketing after the launch. In the beginning I was naive and wasn’t a good planner. In my personal life I winged everything hoping without reading and research that everything would turn out rewarding. Read more>> 

Alison Woods | Children’s Book Author

I’ve had two very distinct and different careers. I spent 40 years in corporate America, working for IBM, ARCO Chemical Company, Independence Blue Cross and PepsiCo. In my role as an IT leader I learned that although rules may be broken – me and people who look like me are not the ones this applied to. Read more>>

Julia Roome | Songwriter

It is so hard to narrow it down to just one. I started playing music & acting at the age of two and although I am only thirteen now, I have already had so many experiences, lessons, setbacks, & eye-opening moments that have shaped who I am today as a young teen. Read more>>