Reader,

Some of the rules we are taught to follow:

Don't be disruptive.

Never ask others to do your work.

Stay humble, avoid attention.

Don't be too sales-y.

Follow the traditional path.

Wait your turn.

Don't ask for too much.

Play it safe.

I know these rules all too well. 😩

Yet look at the most successful people and brands in the world – they break every one of these rules.

The disruptors reshape industries. The delegators build empires. The attention-seekers become influencers. The best salespeople change the world. The rule-breakers create new industries. The impatient innovate faster. The bold negotiators earn more. And those who take calculated risks? They're the ones making history.

Sometimes extraordinary success means unlearning what we've been taught.

I learned that through nearly two decades working for Martha Stewart. It was like getting my MBA in personal branding with Professor Stewart, and failing wasn't an option.

I learned that excellence isn't just a goal – it's a daily practice.

Picture this: It's my third day on the job. The office is quiet. Then suddenly, that unmistakable, deep voice booms through the hallway:

"This isn't my brand. This is cheap. Who's responsible?" [read scary tone]

That was my first day at Martha University. What followed was a masterclass in personal and professional branding that would transform my entire career.

Today, I'm sharing these lessons and the full story.

In this audio video, you'll learn:

The daily habit Martha demanded of everyone (it's not what you think, but it's why she's still relevant today)
What two hours of hunting for the perfect pear taught me about excellence (and why it matters for your personal brand)
The dramatic moment a client nearly attacked Martha on live TV (and the crisis management lesson that changed how I handle every challenge)

Working for Martha Stewart wasn't always easy – but it was always exceptional. The good, the bad, the ugly shaped who I am today.

These aren't just stories about Martha. They're a blueprint for building an unshakeable personal brand. The same principles that built one of the most enduring lifestyle empires can help you stand out.

Hit reply and let me know: Which lesson speaks to you most?

In the most recent documentary on Netflix, you can learn even more. Here's my one-second appearance sitting behind Martha as she addressed the press for the first time after incarceration. I had long dark hair then and was much younger!

Here's to making excellence our standard, Reader.

P.S. You'll also hear the moment I knew I was in way over my head at Martha Stewart Living. It's in the first 2 minutes of the video – and it might change how you think about your own brand.