brad garland

1a) Father AKA Henry Garland  - I’m wired like my Dad.  Stubborn, constantly distracted, surprisingly sensitive at times, and a 100% entrepreneur at heart.  He set the bar high.  I have learned from his successes in business and as equally as important, his mistakes, and for that I’m incredibly grateful. 

1b) Mother AKA Roz Garland - (sidebar: I know, I know, parents are so cliche but it’s true.) My mom and I have always had a strained relationship but I would say that is because we’re so much alike. We’re equally stubborn, a bit dramatic at times, and always striving for absolute perfection. My mom has taught tons of great things from my love of the arts, design, music, and doing the things that make you happy.

2) Michael Gerber (author of E-Myth) - I obviously don’t know Michael but his book changed me when I read it.  It was the clarity that many people are looking for in regards to building a business.  Now with that said, I don’t believe everything he says but I definitely think his organizational approach has effective be as a CEO.

3) Dr. Lori Byers AKA college professor - Lori was easily the most influential teacher of my life.  She was my Communications professor from UNT.  She was able to take us out of our selfish, holier-than-thou perspectives and made consider other options.  From demographics, to gender, to cultural and religious differences.  She always lead classes by getting out of the way and allowing us to find our own opinions instead of buying into hers.  She’s a gem.

4) Courtney Treadaway - Court is an old old friend of mine.  He’s also been a best friend/co-worker/roommate/employee too.  My parents originally didn’t think Court was a good influence on me but turned out to be the most positive while growing up. Court has a pretty amazing story in his own right but his/our battles along the way have taught me the priority of things.

5) Al Gore - The vice-president? Well not really him specifically but what I really mean is what Al Gore helped get started.  The Internet has connected me with new insights and perspectives from people around the globe that without it, I would never have even consider.  People like Larry Lessig, Chris Anderson (Wired), Chris Anderson (TED curator), Clay Shirky, John Battelle, Tara Hunt, Ryan Carson, Jason Fried, Kevin Rose, Gary Vaynerchuk, Tim Ferriss, Malcolm Gladwell, Craig Newmark, Jeff Bezos, Jason Calacanis and so so SO many more.  They have all been influences in my life sorry that I cheated there but if you want to single one person out (jokingly), I’d say Al Gore.