Home: different locations across the globe. Age: Early sixties. Birthplace: Lloydminster, Saskatchewan. Organization: Multiple technology-focused organizations. Alma mater: University of Waterloo (BSc, General Sciences); City University of Seattle (MBA, Management Finance). Languages spoken: English and restaurant conversational Spanish.
Current project: Leaving humanity with Metanet, the internet of the future. Recent recognition: The respect that I get from the government of Antigua and the systems of Antigua for the charity work that I do there. Latest contribution to others: Charity work, particularly in the field of education. The one thing nobody can ever take from you. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Recognition of the power and potential of the internet, earlier than most. Hobbies: Water sports, hiking, weightlifting, travel. I consider my work a hobby as well. Recent travel or adventure: Six weeks in Africa, including six safaris, one in Dubai on our return. Last book read: The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism, by Martin Wolf.
Personality profile: Fun-loving and reliable. What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Reliable. Moral compass: Try to never put myself in a position where I'm doing something that my entire being tells me is wrong. How do you define a perfect friendship? Reliable, independent, don't take themselves too seriously. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Reliable. The last thing you want in your business relationships is surprises. What is your greatest joy? The feeling that I'm leaving good things behind when I’m gone. What word or phrase do you use far too often? Like most folks in Canada: Eh?
What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? When I was younger, I probably would've cut off a finger to be a rock star or a professional athlete. But that's all gone out of my head right now.
What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Sports. I was on the track team and played hockey and soccer. What’s the best advice you received growing up? My dad told me that in my life I should aspire to never have a job. What’s the best advice you received in your career? If you're going to start a business, start in an industry where you're doing something you like. What modern technology innovation do you most appreciate? The internet, which gives me the freedom to work remotely. What is your favorite app? E-mail. What is your go-to source of news and information? As many as I can manage. What company or organization do you most admire? Apple and other similarly product-driven companies.
What is your big idea?
Leveraging blockchain technology to transform how we ensure data integrity and transparency across industries.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Creating a secure scalable ecosystem that empowers individuals and businesses to transact with trust and transparency. What change would you like to see in the world? Democracy and climate change both need more attention.
What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Danny DeVito. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A rock star or a professional athlete. Later, running businesses, as I do now. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? People and pets. Everything else is replaceable. What day in your life would you choose to re-live? My 20th birthday, especially with all that I know now about how the world works.
Personal mission: Leaving humanity with Metanet, the internet of the future. Personal motto: Push the boundaries of innovation and always stay true to your vision.
