Everything I Know, I Learned From: Dolly Parton

So, a few weeks ago, I was in Nashville.

And something about this city really struck me—it had this really unique energy that was palpable. I’m not sure if it was the music spilling out from the venues and Honky Tonks on Broadway Street, seeing groups of women celebrating their bachelorette parties and giggling with excitement as they bar-hopped, the crisp sunny weather or a combo of all three. It was a memorable, energetic atmosphere.

But something else I noticed was the presence of a celebrity that seemed to dominate the city. I’m talking about Dolly Parton.

I popped into the Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame and noticed she was everywhere in the museum’s gift shop. Clothing, books she’s authored, stickers and magnets with her face on it.

She’s immortalized in the Hall of Fame (obviously), but her likeness can be spotted all over the city. She even has glammed-out restaurant in honor of her called White Limozeen.

This, I realized, was something that needed to be studied.

I was so inspired by her, that I created a video breaking down all the ways she’s iconic (and what you can learn from her) on my YouTube channel (watch it below).

After Researching Ms. Dolly Parton, I Learned Some Incredible Things About Her

• She has 13 RIAA-certified gold albums, more than Tina Turner and Hank Williams combined.

• She has the most number one hits (25!!) by a female artist on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

• Through her organization, the Dollywood Foundation, she reduced the drop out rate of a high school in her home county of Sevierville, TN, from 35% to 6%!!

She’s an unapologetic queen, leads with her heart, and stands her ground. In fact, she refused to let Elvis record one of her songs because she’d have to give up right to the song AKA the royalties. It was a power move that made her millions of dollars.

Another thing about miss Dolly? She is a business and branding MASTERMIND. She built an entire brand around being just as over-the-top as she is sincere.

Here’s what everyone can learn from Dolly:

1. She didn’t just tell stories—she became one.

Dolly didn’t just share her life; she built a story so iconic it feels larger than life. She’s the girl from the Smoky Mountains with big dreams, big hair, and an even bigger heart. Every detail—her look, her laugh, her lyrics—adds to her incredible narrative. And the best part? It’s all rooted in who she truly is.

💡 Takeaway: When building your personal brand, don’t water yourself down to fit in. Get specific. Own your quirks, your truth, and tell your story in a way only you can.

2. She defines herself before anyone else can.

Dolly once said: “I’m not offended by all the dumb blonde jokes because I know I’m not dumb. I also know I’m not blonde.”

That’s pure brilliance. She leans into humor to stay one step ahead, shaping her own narrative before anyone else gets the chance. It’s clever, it’s confident, and it’s completely in her control.

💡 Takeaway: Think about how people might misinterpret you. Then, take charge. Use your voice, your humor, and your smarts to tell your story on your terms.

3. She knows her worth—and protects it.

When Elvis Presley wanted to buy the rights to “I Will Always Love You”, Dolly said no. That decision paid off big-time when Whitney Houston’s version became a global hit.

This wasn’t luck. It was vision. Dolly knew her value and played the long game, even when the short-term payoff looked tempting.

💡 Takeaway: Don’t settle for quick wins that undervalue your worth. Protect what’s yours. Play the long game.

4. She grows—but stays true to herself.

From Dollywood to literacy programs to her fragrance line (yes, it’s amazing), everything Dolly does still feels so Dolly. She doesn’t chase trends. She expands with purpose, staying true to her essence while multiplying her impact.

💡 Takeaway: You don’t have to do it all. Just focus on doing what feels most you.

5. She proves kindness is strength.

Dolly leads with heart, but don’t mistake her kindness for weakness. She’s generous—donating millions, uplifting communities, and championing causes she believes in. But she’s also firm about her boundaries. Dolly shows us you can be soft and strong at the same time.

💡 Takeaway: Success doesn’t have to be ruthless. Lead with kindness, build with empathy, and don’t forget to protect your peace along the way.

Final Thoughts: What Dolly Taught Me

Being in Nashville reminded me of this: Legacy isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about being intentional—about knowing who you are and owning it. Dolly didn’t become an icon by accident. She did it with heart, strategy, and of course, sequins.

So, the next time you’re building your brand or stepping into a new challenge, ask yourself:

WWDD? (What Would Dolly Do?)

She’d show up unapologetically. Tell her truth. Make you laugh. And leave with her head held high, rhinestones sparkling.

What’s hilarious is I’m not even a country music fan. But I’m a Dolly fan. So if that’s not powerful marketing, I don’t know what is.

May you move like you have Dolly rooting for you every step of the way this week.

Mel

P.S., I bought one of her sweaters at the gift shop. Obviously.