In the latest episode of The TOP Lessons podcast, Dame Sheila B. Driscoll takes us on an inspiring journey through her family’s remarkable legacy, beginning with the origins of the Driscoll Berry empire and the philosophy of “community first” that has defined their success. Sheila shares profound insights on the true meaning of wealth, the power of listening as a competitive edge, and the importance of unity through individuality. She delves into her journey as a Driscoll heir, revealing the pillars that guide her, including the three forms of giving and three pieces of Irish wisdom. She shares the incredible story behind the Strawberry Institute of California, the transformative impact of her higher-purpose approach to leadership and the enduring significance of creating joy. This episode is packed with Dame Sheila’s TOP Lessons, including bonus content, offering listeners a glimpse into the legacy, wisdom, and purpose-driven innovation that define her extraordinary story.
About Today’s Guest:
As the CEO of Dame Venturus, Dame Sheila B. Driscoll epitomizes the spirit of innovation and philanthropy, crafting legacies that transcend generations. With a heritage steeped in the Driscoll family’s century-long tradition of berry cultivation, Dame Sheila infuses her leadership with the richness of her lineage and the foresight of a visionary.
She stands as a living bridge from the verdant Pájaro Valley, where her great-grandfather Jeremiah Driscoll planted the seeds of what would flourish into Driscoll’s, the world's premier berry company, to the hallowed halls of global influence. Dame Sheila’s acumen for intellectual property and capital ventures has left indelible marks across the realms of media, agriculture, education, and beyond.
Her commitment to food security and educational excellence found a distinguished audience in President George H. W. Bush, and her founding of the Billionaire Foundation signaled a dedication to perpetuating prosperity. The Lifetime Achievement Award she was given from her business and philanthropic peers from the UAE further embodies her charitable spirit, while reflecting the global impact of her work.
At DV, Dame Sheila orchestrates symphonies of success, guiding the illustrious and the influential from mere success to enduring significance.
Key Points from this Episode:
Introduction of today’s guest, Dame Sheila B. Driscoll
How the Driscoll Berry legacy began
The power of listening as a competitive edge
Discovering the true meaning of wealth
The Driscoll family philosophy of “community first”
Dame Sheila’s TOP Lessons
The power of unity through individuality
Dame Sheila’s journey as a Driscoll heir and the pillars she’s lived by
Three forms of giving
About the Strawberry Institute of California
Three pieces of Irish wisdom
Dame Sheila’s higher purpose innovation approach
Legacy and the incredible significance of creating joy in leadership
Bonus lessons with Dame Sheila B. Driscoll
Mentioned on the Show:
Connect with Kathy Inglot on LinkedIn
Recommend a Guest for The TOP Lessons Podcast: kathy@kgroupventures.com
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Connect with Dame Sheila B. Driscoll on LinkedIn
Strawberry Breeding & Research Program at UC Davis
Connect with Driscolls on Instagram: @driscollsberry
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