Be a Constant Learner

Sheila Stanley spent years as a schoolteacher. Now she runs a boating franchise. What do the two have in common? A love of learning.

- By Chloe Arrojado

Sheila Stanley has a background in education—and a career in educating herself. After working for four years as a teacher, she held jobs that included running a small business, working for the federal government, and even working in HR for an education facility. In 2018, she teamed up with her husband and son to purchase a Freedom Boat Club franchise in Nova Scotia. It’s a members-only club that allows members to use boats for recreation. The pandemic challenged the business in some ways, but Stanley says she was able to stay afloat—in part by always learning and trying new ideas.

After such a varied career, what gave you the confidence to become a franchisee?