One of the best things about going to events is the opportunity to meet influential people. No matter what, there are always people that have the ability to expand your world view. Quitter Conference was no exception.

Aside from the fantastic speakers, which you’ll read about in the coming weeks, there were many people attending the conference that I’ve followed from afar.

These people have made a difference in my life.  Some subtle, some more profound.

I’ll start with someone who was unable to attend the conference, but spent some time with me beforehand.  Sutton Parks has seen some dark days. Troubles with alcohol and a foreclosure caused him to be homeless.  Out of those tough circumstances came an amazing gratitude for what life has to offer.  He wrote a book about his experience that I reviewed here.  Sutton — thanks for the tour, lunch, and your time.

Erik J Fisher is on the rise as a social media and new media expert.  His new podcast, Beyond The To Do List, is chock full of insight on productivity and healthy life balance.  He’s also the social media correspondent for Cliff Ravenscraft’s PodcastAnswerman.com.  I didn’t expect to meet Erik, but I took the opportunity to say hello.  Great guy and he should be on your radar.

Next is Tammy Helfrich.  She’s a veteran of all 3 Quitter Conferences that have happened to date.  She’s a difference-maker in the Quitter circle.  She’s always there with an encouraging word.  We only chatted briefly, but I think I made a new friend.  You can hear her story on Quitter Conference Conversations Episode 1.

Andy Traub, host of Quitter Conference Conversations, has changed the lives of many.  I’ve known of Andy for a few years.  He had known he wanted to be a free agent and tried a few different businesses before landing on producing and hosting podcasts professionally.  He’s a skilled host who asks great questions.  It’s really his art.  Going from Mr. Free Tech to founder of the Take Permission Media Network, he’s an inspiration.

Side-note: Andy, if you read this, I’m sorry I was so awkward.  I was so thrilled to have the chance to shake your hand that my brain turned to mush. Next time, I’ll be coherent. 

I connected with a bunch of other people who, I hope, will encourage me to live out the dream inside me.

If you have any chance at all to attend a Quitter Conference you need to go.  Trust me.  The value you get out of it will be way beyond your investment.