I've had the intention for a long time to make a list of people who have influenced me in good ways, as a sort of reflection on my own strengths, things I still want to work on, and how I can influence others in positive ways too. This is by no means a complete list so if you're not on it please don't take offense. In no particular/approximately chronological order, by person and what I learned from them:
- Paul Wrobbel: independent thinking, self-confidence.
- N. David Coyle: generosity, independence, real chivalry.
- Michael Hochberg: entrepreneurial spirit, always looking for opportunities, believing in in oneself. (Actually many people I met at Caltech were really powerful influences, probably because of that particular time in my life where I was looking for role-models and also because they were all exceptional people.)
- John Pasden: inquiry, considering new ideas, sharing and generosity.
- Asa Fox: authenticity, honesty.
- Neale McGoldrick: inquiry, challenging authority, no bad ideas, excellence and attention to detail.
Other people who made strong impressions on me and influenced my life direction, or helped me out in one way or another:
- Aaron Sittig
- Micah Tan
- Ted Erskin
- Lauren Stolper
People I've never met but I consider influences for being both thinkers and doers, people of action:
- Mark Pilgrim
- Sam Ruby
- Les Orchard
- Andy Baio