Miles to the Top

Linda Miles' ordinary life started in Southern West Virginia. From humble beginnings as a child to becoming a young Air Force wife and successful entrepreneur, each stage of Linda's life served as a stepping stone to a level of success she never dreamed possible. Even through all the hardship, progress, and success, Linda remained true to her homegrown values and followed the advice of Granny Miles, her husband's grandmother, to never get "higher than your raising." Linda explores her journey from working as a dental assistant for a dollar an hour in the early 60s to becoming one of the most requested and highest paid speakers, consultants, authors, and advisors in dentistry for four decades. By practicing the same lessons in leadership, communication, organization, and employee loyalty that she lectured on for thirty-six years, she built an INC 500 speaking and consulting business, co-founded a nonprofit to combat oral cancer, and continues to give back in many ways through her profession and community. She looks back on her past with a heartfelt gratitude to those who shaped her life and success, and offers a glimpse into the lessons, lectures, failures, and mindsets that propelled her to success. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to find the courage to take risks, especially those who may struggle with confidence because of their humble beginnings. Linda firmly believes that if a person has passion, great work ethic, and does something they love, it's very possible to learn their trade well-and then teach others to love it. While Linda's experience and success came through the profession of dentistry, the lessons she's learned and shares in this book transcend all professions and can be applied to anyone seeking to achieve personal and professional success.