" My father was an entrepreneur – a sign maker, and he had about 20 employees – and often he’d take me to business meetings, and I would listen to him talk with his workers and customers. We would also talk a lot about business over dinner. "
- Bernard L. Schwartz

In the given quote, Bernard L. Schwartz reflects on his early exposure to business through his father's work as an entrepreneur who ran a sign-making company with around twenty employees. Schwartz describes how he accompanied his father to meetings and overheard conversations about various aspects of running a business, including interactions with workers and customers.

This anecdote highlights the profound influence that childhood experiences can have on shaping one’s future career path and understanding of business principles. By being present at these business gatherings, Schwartz was not only exposed to practical aspects of entrepreneurship but also gained insights into interpersonal dynamics within the workplace and customer service. These formative experiences likely played a significant role in his development as an executive and businessman later in life.

Bernard L. Schwartz, the author of this quote, is known for his career spanning several decades in the business world, particularly in telecommunications and defense industries. He served as CEO of Lucent Technologies and was also the chairman of The Bernard L. Schwartz Foundation, which focuses on various philanthropic efforts including education initiatives. His reflections often draw upon lessons learned from early family influences, such as those shared through his father's entrepreneurial endeavors.