I love the fall. Well what we call “fall” here in Miami is really an end to hurricane season, rain, and humidity. While the leaves don’t change colors, the tourists do, so it tends to even out in my book.
I’d also be remiss to not take a few minutes out to thank some of the people who inspire, motivate, push, cajole, and kick me in the ass when I need it (in no particular order):
Benjamin McCall: Thanks for the random calls and the great conversations. You always make me see things from a perspective that I never thought possible.
John Jorgensen: We may bust balls being from different Fraternities, but you keep me honest. I appreciate our calls, the conversations, and the random shots.
Mark Stelzner: Several Stellas deep my ability to count becomes virtually non-existent, thanks for helping me to count to 21. On a serious note, you taught me that boldness and action take guts and a twisted sense of humor.
Jason Seiden: The books are a huge hit when I conduct seminars and the note you included is tacked to my wall. When I get stuck it serves as a source of inspiration and a reminder to “Go Big!”
Charlie Judy: We had some great times this year. You call shit out and make shit happen. That motivates my sorry ass.
Frank Roche: There are days when I think “WWFS” just before I’m about to publish a blog post. I then proceed to freak out and then say “screw it”. I appreciate your candor, and like Mr. Judy, when you call out the bullshit in the industry and space, people listen and act. That makes you awesome in my book.
Matt Stollak: You are a scholar, a gentleman, and have one of the biggest hearts on the planet. Your hospitality and generosity were not lost on me and I’m still trying to find a way to repay you. Thank You!
Lance Huan: I’ve had some of the best dining experiences of my life with you and Matt. I mean how can one top In-N-Out burger & Lotus of Siam in Vegas? Thank you for driving and the culinary adventures.
Jason Lauristen: I admire you as a leader, a writer, and as a person. Thanks for being an inspiration.
Dwane Lay: Heh, heh (shakes head). You’re good people and we don’t nearly spend as much time together as we should. Maybe that’s a good thing. Having you on my wing when we ambushed Tony Hsieh this year was epic. Thanks.
Paul Hebert: I know we’re both passionate about our teams and that passion coupled with your writing is amazing. Thanks for putting up with my cheap shots, and for being a great blogger.
Steve Boese: You provide the forum for this crazy, extended (and somewhat dysfunctional) group of friends to interact. The sacrifice doesn’t go unnoticed by me. Thanks!
Paul Smith: I’m one of your biggest fans and cheerleaders. We joke, and laugh, but being serious for like 2 seconds, you’re poised to make a huge difference in others lives (like you did mine).
Tim Sackett: Screw the lists, you’re someone I admire and respect for the hard work you do in the trenches.
Jenn McClure: You’re one of the best and the brightest. You lead, and inspire all of us. Thanks for setting the bar so high.
Franny O: You keep me honest and grounded in reality. I’m convinced that you and my wife have been comparing notes. I’m thankful for the brief time we get at conferences.
Trish McFarlane: One day a random pair of Chucks is gonna show up at your door (shipped by Zappos nonetheless). You make it look effortless and that’s not lost on me. Thank you for being a catalyst.
Maren Hogan: You always managed to facebook me when I’m having my tempest in a teacup moments and make me smile forgetting the bullshit. Not an easy thing to do with me… Thank You.
The Starr Conspiracy: LZSFC QGM XGJ QGMJ ZGKHALSDALQ & YWFWJGKALQ SFV LZW SESRAFY WPHWJAWFUWK. OGO!
Steve Browne: Thank you for listening.
Laurie: Thank you for the text messages.
Victorio Milian: You’re an example of calm, cool, and collected at all times. Thank you for always making me smile.
Dan Crosby: Thanks for not taking my co-pay. Like our buddy Victorio, you’re an amazing example and a great sport too… Cheers to you “Don Carlos”!
James Papiano: You’re one of the good guys and I’m glad we were able to finally meet and interact. Thanks for also challenging me to think differently.
Eric Winegardner: Your passion is contagious, and your drive is unmatched. I’m just gonna say it here, you’re the living example of Willie Wonka for the HR space. Thanks for reminding me that “I’m a music maker and dreamer of dreams!”
Matt Charney: If you call me at 3 a.m. and ask to bury the body, it’s done.
OK this shit got way too long. Next time, I’m just gonna call people.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Awesome! Sackett finally made a list!
Seriously, thanks very much for the mention and for being such an important part of our little community of HR Happy Hour Hooligans. Have a great rest of the holiday weekend.
Man, that’s really nice. Cheers to you…thanks for the smile…enjoy what remains of Thanksgiving. And keep pushing that Publish button!
Damnedest thing. The way I remember it, you were on MY wing.
Yes, probably for the best there is half a continent between us. You’re aces, kid.
As I slip on my black armband this morning in honor of the loss yesterday I salute you Johnny boy – always good to be part of a cool person’s list… thanks and have a great holiday season and stay warm down there – we know how the temps can dip into the low 80’s this time of year – watch out for frostbite!
Thanks so much for including me among this great group of folks! It’s been a true “social media win” to have met you and gotten to know you better over the past couple of years!
Johnny Nyk- I am humbled by your gratitude. The feeling is completely mutual. You’re one of the “good guys” who is willing to give and never ask for a thing in return. You make our community great and are a true friend. Happy holidays to you and your family!
p.s. You’re probably the only person who could actually get me to wear chuck’s. 🙂