In 2023, Sèchey launched our branded non-alc wines without a lot of information — just the voices of our customers asking for premium, great-tasting alcohol-free options, and a retailer willing to cut a purchase order. We didn’t have a playbook. We just had to listen, hustle, and survive.

Turns out, those are the same skills I learned valeting cars in a mini skirt more than 20 years ago, living in Los Angeles.

Working for Gillian at Valet of the Dolls wasn’t just a side hustle — it was my first real experience navigating a traditionally male-dominated space. Those lessons have served me again and again, especially when I’m the only woman on the call, in the room, or on the panel (which happens more than it should).

I learned I could work 70-hour weeks and sleep in my car between Saturday shifts. I learned how to show up with confidence, even when faced with parking a Porsche Carrera backwards down a steep hill.

From the woman who told me I was “too pretty to park cars” (thanks… I think?) to the man who refused to believe I could drive his 6-speed Lamborghini Gallardo (FYI: I was certified by the California Highway Patrol, you a**hole), I was collecting the kind of real-world skills that build resilience and resourcefulness.

Sometimes I look back and feel a pang of resentment. Would I rather have been partying in a bikini in Malibu than sprinting down PCH with a valet ticket in hand? Honestly, yeah. But in hindsight, I was getting a crash course in entrepreneurship — surrounded by other badass women just trying to pay their bills. (Shout out to the inspirational female founders in CPG — you know who you are.)

Here’s what Valet of the Dolls taught me:

• Move fast and improvise with imperfect information.

• Really listen to people.

• Trust your instincts.

• Build community before chasing scale.

If you’re thinking about starting something (anything!) don’t underestimate the power of your past gigs, grind, or side hustle. The most unconventional experiences are often the best training grounds for leadership.