I’ve just finished writing six profiles of Hall of Fame-level people in the oil and gas business, for two different clients. One of my favorite questions for them is, “Who were your mentors? Who helped shape you into the leader you are?” Second to that is, “How have you passed on that mentorship?”

I love hearing the helpful quotes and the wisdom passed on. “Give to the community and the community will give to you,” one said. Another spoke fondly of his father’s dinner-table talks about life, values, and commitment. Telling those stories inspires me and, I hope, readers.

What’s your fondest family advice story? What’s your favorite business mentorship remembrance? Wouldn’t you like to make sure others get to learn, rejoice, and be inspired by those words? Or maybe feel the joy of laughter at a mistake learned from?

Elsewhere on my website you’ll see my stories about Clayton Williams, Brian Sheffield and others. Both of them approached the subject with glee. I interviewed Clayton Williams in person, along with Bob Callender. Claytie opened the office door rubbing his hands together and announcing, “It’s been a long time since I got to tell my stories to anyone!”

For Brian Sheffield, the interview spanned the Atlantic–he was on a family trip to Spain. But even across the ocean I could “hear” the sparkle in his eyes as he recalled how his father, Scott Sheffield, who was then president of Pioneer, would take his son to gatherings of important people. Upon entering the room Scott would whisper in Brian’s ear, “See these people? Everyone in this room sees you and expects you to do nothing!” Because he was a rich kid.

And while the younger Sheffield knew exactly what Dad’s trick was, it worked anyway. Brian has accomplished much. Both have much to celebrate.

These are the kinds of ideas and quotes I listen for with every fiber of my body, because I know they’ll ring true with everyone who reads the story.

So I repeat the question: Who were your mentors, and what’s your favorite story about them? What story does everyone in your family or organization need to hear?

Email me at paul@paulmwiseman.com or call me at 432-559-3043 and let me listen to your story–and discuss how I can help it get preserved and told. And retold.