Dog Days Pt V: Lessons from the People Who Shaped Me
- Daniel Fosselman
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
This article is a reflection on the people who have had the greatest impact on my life. Each one has taught me lessons—about love, growth, integrity, purpose, and the kind of man I want to become.
Wife
Spouse, Partner, Anchor
My wife and my greatest teacher. She is genuine, honest, nurturing—and one of the most consistent people I know. Her ability to remain steady across situations is something I deeply admire and strive to emulate. She continues to challenge me to be a better husband and father, and she has supported me in finding a professional path that brings fulfillment. She teaches me how to love—every day.
My Kids
Patience, Joy, discomfort
Nobody makes me feel crazier than these two. They are so tiring, and all you want to do is take a nap. Yet you miss when they're not around. They change all the time, reminding me that life is finite and that it goes quick. They test my patience daily and humble me constantly. Nobody makes me laugh as much as they do.
Doug and Diane Fosselman
Parents, Role Models, Community Servants
My dad loved his patients; my mom loved her community. They were both incredibly busy—and incredibly giving. My mother often said, “Honor God and honor family,” and that principle has been deeply ingrained in me. My father’s loyalty and decision to pursue private practice sparked my interest in business. If I have a stubborn streak, I’m sure it’s genetic… and well-earned.
Emil and Connie Oltean
Grandparents, Quiet Leaders, True North
Some therapists say your primary relationship role models come from your parents, but for my wife and me, that model was my grandparents. We started spending time with them in high school—one of the best decisions we ever made. My grandfather loved people, loved learning, loved telling jokes, and loved a good bourbon. My grandmother offered unconditional love, lit up every room with her laugh, and carried a quiet strength that still inspires me.
Eric Serrano
Mentor, Second Father, Pioneer
Since my first year of medical school, Eric has been like a second father. He introduced me to what was once considered “alternative” medicine—now more commonly known as lifestyle medicine. From nutrition and exercise to hormone therapy and the art of generosity. He has shaped the way I care for patients. He taught me the importance of lifelong learning and modeled what it means to truly care about someones wellbeing.
Mark Watts
Coach, Connector, Builder of People
Coach Watts was my college strength and conditioning coach. A true Pittsburgh character. He created opportunities for others and lives with unmatched passion. I had the privilege of learning from him for four years, and I’m grateful to also have been coached by other greats—like Rocky Pentello and Ed Calo. But Watts stands out for his ability to connect people and ignite possibility.
Dan John
Coach, Philosopher, Everyday Wisdom
Dan John is one of the most interesting people I’ve ever met. I read his writing over 20 years ago and, by some miracle, he started coming to Denison every summer for a throwing camp. Meeting him was like meeting a celebrity. He simplified complex ideas in strength training, parenting, and life. One principle of his that I return to constantly: “Little and often over the long haul.” Dan reframed how I think about values, goal setting, and daily practice: If it’s important, do it every day.
Paul Chek
Holistic Thinker, Health Philosopher, Deep Diver
I’ve followed Paul Chek’s work for over 15 years. His frameworks—especially the “Four Doctors” (Diet, Quiet, Happiness, Movement)—have shaped how I approach patient care. He challenges me to think deeper about health, disease, and healing. His course, The 1-2-3-4 of Disease, Obesity, and Addiction, remains the most profound course I’ve taken. It blends science, spirituality, and love in a way that gets to the root of healing.
Dr. Jim Dahle (The White Coat Investor)
Financial Guide, Life Planner, Stewardship Advocate
I’ve been reading The White Coat Investor for nearly a decade. It has helped me master not just personal finance, but life design. Jim’s philosophy goes beyond wealth—it’s about purpose. He asks the real questions: Why build financial security? How can you live more generously? What does an intentional life look like? His message: Building anything worthwhile takes time—and years.
LJ Hackett
Friend, Mentor, Training Partner
I met LJ when I was a freshman and he was a senior. He’s been ahead of me ever since—in life, lifting, and wisdom. He became a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training partner five years ago, and he’s been a sounding board and guide ever since. LJ gives perspective. He’s a great father, a humble man, a hard worker, and a lifelong learner. He makes me feel a little more balanced just by being around.
John Payne
Accountability Partner, Loyal Friend, Mirror
Payne has always been willing to tell me the truth—even when it’s hard. He’s shown me the value of honesty in friendship, and that people can evolve dramatically while staying true to their core. He’s taught me that good friendship doesn’t mean constant agreement—it means loyalty, openness, and shared growth.
Final Thoughts
This list is incomplete. I've had so many wonderful people in my life and that still come into my life it's amazing. The perspectives that they all bring is completely different and wonderful.
The people on this list have shaped me in different seasons of my life. Some are family, others mentors or friends. All of them challenged me, supported me, and made me better. Their lessons are woven into who I am and who I continue striving to become.
Many of them are mentors and none of them are perfect. Their imperfections are perhaps the greatest gift they've given me. They teach me that imperfect people make the world a better place. As an imperfect person, this gives me hope to positively impact others as they have done for me, despite my flaws.
