Many know him as Ron Swanson from Parks & Rec, but that’s a character. He’s a dynamic actor, a hilarious comic, eloquent author, and an outstanding woodworker. I like his honesty and pragmaticism. I enjoy the way he brings his characters to life. His writing transports me in my mind. His woodworking is inspiring to me. His comedy makes me feel seen in this human experiment. I love his laugh; he clearly likes to be goofy, much like myself. He came through my town on his American Ham comedy tour and that’s when I got a real feel for who he is as a person. He loves his wife enthusiastically. He’s a connoisseur, whether it’s words, whisk(e)y, wood, what-have-you. He’s inclusive; understanding that we’re all just individuals living our lives and wanting to do our best. You’ll find a wide swath of genders working and managing his woodshop which means a lot to me as a woodworker because it’s often a male dominated industry. I’m white, cis, male, and shoot, even southern (Appalachian) American, but I staunchly believe in accessibility and inclusiveness. The more I learn about Nick, the more I like the guy, and I’ve learned a good deal about him. I’ve had this dream for a while about reaching out to see if he’d want to go paddling with me down the oldest river in North America which starts in my area, but I’m just some guy, and he’s probably pretty busy.
Jack Black. Inspires people to do what they love. Really knows how to gave fun and doesn’t care if people think it’s weird. And despite a lot of banal poop, penis, sex humour in the Tenacious D songs, they changed some lyrics in live shows to swap genders. Great example of nonchelant emancipation and equality.
I always hated his music, the style and those of his listeners…then I heard the dude talk in Bowling for Columbine and he is so eloquent, logical and reasonable and informed on issues where people constantly try to misframe him I immediately gained enormous respect for him (still dislike his music and style) and everything I’ve ever heard him say since has been the same.
Steve Irwin - definitely one of the most iconic people from my childhood. The respect and awe he showed towards animals was so inspiring to me, and definitely was my biggest role model when it comes to the way we should treat non-human animals.
Anyone that takes time to do the little things that make us civilised: picking up someone else’s trash, putting away someone else’s shopping cart, etc. Just shows they give a fuck
Mr Dress-up, aka Ernie Coombs, in the same vein as Mr Rodgers. A national treasure in Canada who was the best role model for kids. They just released a fantastic documentary on him recently on Amazon I think
They’re unapologetically weird, fiercely in love with each other, they support and love their children unconditionally, they’re brutally honest with each other, including openly showing affection without giving a damn about what others may think of them. They’re one of the best (fictional) examples of caring parents and lovers, and I will die on that hill.
I have this vague memory of an interview where this was being talked about and how showing them as kind, loving people with real emotions was somewhat controversial. If anyone knows what I am talking about please chime in.
Carl Sagan was already mentioned, he’s def a favorite of mine. I’d also add Matt Mercer, everything I’ve seen of him makes it seems like he’s just a wonderful person all around.
I mean I didn’t wanna out myself as a giant critter…
But it appears he has built a large and successful business with his friends while being fiercely protective of them while being welcoming and accepting to everyone.
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