Oprah’s Business Secrets: 6 Key Lessons from a Former Employee

Former Oprah Winfrey Employee Shares Key Business Lessons

Jeff Boodie, a media agency executive who began working with Oprah Winfrey in 2007, has revealed valuable business insights he gained from his time with the media mogul. Boodie, who now runs a media agency managing systemic impact, business strategy, events, and partnerships, credits Winfrey for teaching him crucial lessons that have shaped his career.

One of the primary lessons Boodie learned was the importance of focus and professionalism. Winfrey’s team, known for attracting top talent, emphasized the need to be an integral part of the team rather than getting starstruck. Boodie was exposed to various departments, including editorial, marketing, and sales, learning the significance of excelling in one’s role without being a fan.

Another key takeaway was the importance of surrounding oneself with the best people. Winfrey’s approach to building a team that protects her business interests left a lasting impression on Boodie. He stressed the significance of believing in what you’re selling without letting star power cloud judgment.

Boodie also highlighted Winfrey’s practice of showing appreciation to her team through thoughtful gestures. From personalized gifts like iPods for outstanding performance to annual holiday parties and bonuses, these acts of recognition motivated employees and set a tone for giving that Boodie carries into his own business practices.

The media executive emphasized the importance of trusting experts to do their job, a lesson he observed during his travels with Winfrey. Witnessing her ability to uplift and celebrate experts like Dr. Oz, Suze Orman, and Dr. Phil at events taught Boodie the significance of letting others shine in their areas of expertise.

Perhaps most importantly, Boodie learned to trust his gut, a practice he attributes directly to Winfrey. This lesson, along with the emphasis on building relationships and trust, has become a cornerstone of how Boodie runs his own media agency, ConnectUp Media Agency.

Today, Boodie advises and manages influencers, royals, wealthy families, nonprofits, and brands, applying the lessons he learned from his time with Winfrey. He credits her influence for shaping how he runs his business and pursues his dreams in the competitive media landscape.