Who took a chance on you?

This post was inspired by Bijan Sabet’s latest piece

There’s always that one, or more, person we think of when we look back and realize how far we have come in life. Whether it’s one of your co-workers, your boss, or even your very own mother.For most, we were fortunate enough to have someone believe in our dreams, and more importantly, believe in us.

Personally, I have had the opportunity to work with some really amazing people on amazing ideas. I launched my first “start-up” here in Chicago back in 2011 with the help of Terry Howerton. Terry was one of the early supporters of Viatask—he took a chance on me by offering us office space, his invaluable time and mentoring me. I was a skinny—naive 16-year-old who had the vision of building something huge, someday. Terry always made time for me and was there to back me up during my rough days. Although Viatask was not a hit, one key thing I can take away, is that I have been lucky enough to work with someone like Terry.

Along with Terry, I was (yet again) lucky enough to work with Jody Sherman. Jody was a bright, thoughtful individual who spoke his mind and gave some of the best advice to me. April 9, 2012—the day Jody signed our advisory agreement, he took a chance on me.

It breaks my heart to bring this up, again, but Jody is no longer with us. He passed away two months ago.

Terry and Jody are among many other individuals who have helped me become who I am today. My family, my friends, my English teacher, and possibly even you reading this, taught me valuable lessons and might have took a chance on me.

It’s been a crazy journey so far, I would have never expected to be sitting in this seat today, writing this post, realizing who I have become as a person. The people who believed in me, trusted me, and most importantly, took a chance on me—will always be remembered for what they have done. Thank you.

In 140 characters or less—tell me who took a chance on you.