Need Reliable Business or Leadership Advice? Eight Places to Turn To

As an entrepreneur or business leader, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by advice from others (who may or may not be qualified to give it). Too many opinions can often leave you feeling confused and unsure if the choices you’re making are the right ones or if they’ll turn into mistakes you’ll later regret. And this uncertainty can be devastating to leaders who need to feel confident in the decisions they make for their company and their team.

This is why it can be so helpful to have a resource to turn to when you need reliable advice on leadership or business decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned business pro or a new leader just dipping their toes in the industry, the business leaders of Rolling Stone Culture Council have eight tried-and-true places you can look for guidance on your leadership journey.

Inspirational Authors and Creators

Everyone has an opinion, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news is that it also means there are endless resources to explore, allowing you to find what aligns with your leadership style and goals. For me, seeking out inspirational authors and motivational online creators has been a valuable way to navigate what works best at my own pace. – Andy Hale, Hale & Monico

Friends and Family

When I need reliable advice on leadership or business decisions, I turn to my husband, friends and family, who have been through it themselves. Having a trusted circle that understands the challenges and wins of entrepreneurship keeps me grounded. They offer honest, experience-driven insights that help me navigate tough decisions while staying true to my vision and long-term goals. – Kristin Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC

Professionals in Other Industries

When I need reliable advice on these kinds of decisions, I turn to people I trust who work in different industries than mine, in companies unconnected to the one I work at and in roles and specialties other than my own. The questions they ask and perspectives they share help me challenge my assumptions, identify new approaches and make decisions that lead to successful business outcomes. – Gail Gottehrer, Del Monte Fresh Produce Company, Inc.

The Rolling Stone Culture Council is an invitation-only community for Influencers, Innovators and Creatives. Do I qualify?

Your Older Self

This may seem unconventional, but I go within when I need the best advice. I think, “What would my 80-year-old self want me to do?” That always seems to give me the clearest answer on the right thing for me to do that aligns with my ethics and standards. – Victoria Chynoweth

My Professional Peer Network

I turn to my trusted YPO peer network. These leaders have experienced similar challenges and understand real-world stakes. Accessing this group provides practical, actionable advice from peers who’ve successfully navigated comparable situations. – Francis Hellyer, tickadoo

A Mixture of People and Data

I lean on a mix of mentors, mentees, colleagues, friends and family. I often reference formal learning, review data and lived experience. I also reflect on what my dad would have done, as his work ethic shaped me and his wisdom continues to guide me. – Marissa Andrada, Marissa Andrada

A Trusted Advisor

It’s been said to never lie to your lawyer or your doctor. In part, that’s because these advisors can only help when they know the unvarnished facts of the situation. So, who are the advisors in your life who know the terrain you’re facing and with whom you feel able to be completely honest? A qualified advisor isn’t just an expert; they’re an expert with whom you can be transparent. – Jed Brewer, Good Loud Media

Online Content

When I need solid advice or motivation, I go to others in my industry, advisors or online. We are so lucky to have so much at our fingertips: podcasts, YouTube and even social media. There is so much inspiration out there now. – Karina Michel Feld, Tallulah Films