Heroes and Influences

Last post.

I am going to be moving on, leaving Ai in the capable hands of the excellent people who work here, and this blog in the hands of David and whoever else he can pull into it. Instead of blathering on about tech, I'd like to take this opportunity to talk for a minute about my heroes and influences.

There are a few pivotal figures that taught me a number of critical lessons. These people influenced me and have shaped my thinking about life, career, people and the universe in general. They are a disparate group, and at times seem to have little in common, but each one has brought a unique perspective and insight into their particular slice of life.

Lets start with the parents, of course. My Mom taught me about compassion for other humans, and taught me at an early age that "I can do anything I want in life" - proving that it's possible to teach freedom.

My Dad taught me about ethics and principles, and how to work with groups of people. He also bought home a dumb terminal with a scroll of paper attached to it, with which he proceeded to call up the DEC-10 at his work, to let me play the dungeon game that ran on it there. I was immediately eaten by a Grue, and my life changed forever.

Claudio Adolpho Iedwab, South American martial arts champion, and the creator of the Gorindo School, taught me about true excellence and how its possible to push one's self to new heights. He also taught how its possible to be scary good at something, and yet humble and friendly.

John Harris, band manager, concert promoter, deal maker, and founder of the Harris Institute, was the first person to teach me about business, leadership, and negotiation. Introducing himself as "someone who has never held a job", Harris has built an enduring legacy around him, touching the lives of scores of professionals in the Canadian music industry.

James David Smith, hardware guy, self taught, self made, my former employer and later business partner. Runs a business that makes remote controlled lighting equipment used on Broadway. Also, ever see the scrolling signs on the Toys 'R Us store in Times Square? Him. Ever see the scene in Phantom of the Opera where the stage seems to be on fire? Him. He is the kind of person that will casually teach himself trigonometry as he needs it. Jim taught me about entrepreneurship, and the incredible power of following through on a great idea, and making it happen.

And finally,

Alex Schmelkin and Josh Levine - founders of Alexander Interactive. From them I've learned about consultative sales, about maintaining a culture that is both fun and excellent, but most importantly about having the courage to recognize when it's time to change the way they're doing things, and then swiftly moving on implementing that change. This commitment to continuous improvement, (instead of clutching ideas the way so many people do), is one of the things that distinguishes them in their industry, and in the world of business in general.

I thank them for the opportunity to work with them, and with all of the other great people at Ai. I'll miss you guys.