In this inspiring episode of Behind the Signs, hosts Joe Arenella and Liz Arenella Toynes talk with Ashley Borell Miner, CEO of Steel Art Company, one of the leading wholesale sign fabricators in the U.S.
Ashley shares her journey from furniture retail to taking over her family’s business, her philosophy on leadership, and how Steel Art has become a 7-time Boston Globe Top Workplace.
She discusses: Building a thriving company culture Leading as a woman in a male-dominated industry Creating growth through delegation Empowering employees and improving retention Balancing motherhood and business ownership Whether you run a small shop or a growing business, Ashley’s insights on leadership, empathy, and resilience are packed with practical wisdom.
Learn more about Steel Art Co: https://www.steelartco.com
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Intro & New England Sign Industry Roots
02:30 – Meet Ashley Miner: CEO of Steel Art Co.
06:00 – Ashley’s Family History
08:20 – From Furniture Sales to Sign Shop Leadership
10:15 – The Importance of Culture & Winning Best Workplace Awards
13:00 – Taking Over the Business: Humble Beginnings and HR Focus
16:00 – Earning Respect and Shifting the Culture
21:00 – Leading as a Woman in the Sign Industry
25:00 – Advice for Dealing with Employee Challenges
29:00 – The Power of Clear Expectations and Second Chances
34:00 – Balancing Business Ownership and Motherhood
38:00 – Delegation & Trusting Your Team
42:00 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
46:00 – Hiring Women & Promoting Inclusivity
49:00 – Rapid Fire Questions: Lessons, Wins & What’s Next
