In the most politically correct way he possibly could. He did say I was "ideal" in regards to my self direction and desire to constantly improve when I converted to full time.
Depends on what subject. For music: Jaco Pastorius and Victor wooten. For Agility: Mike Cohn and Mike Vizdos. For Software: Robert Martin. For life: Everyone I meet.
What advice do you have for someone who wants a job like yours?
Read books, do every example they show, and always know that you have more to learn and that other people are smarter than you are. Be humble and appreciative of every small thing.