Abstract:Complex secondary metabolites isolated from natural sources (i.e. natural products) provide a wealth of diverse chemical space which often serve as the basis for drug development.  Furthermore, the synthesis of these compounds serves to test current reaction methodologies in complex environments as well as provide inspiration for developing new reactions.  An active goal of the Hill group is to develop new reactions to access cyclopropane containing natural products, especially those containing gem-dimethyl groups.  Herein, we present several methods, inspired by nature, to access these strained carbocycles.  Also, I describe here the effect that serving others has on my development as scientist and how it influenced my academic career trajectory.  Lastly, I will discuss how the servant leadership m model has directed research topics in my independent career, namely the study of complex molecules (i.e., natural products).