Growing up I didn't give my grandfather's photography a second thought. I wasn't involved in his work except that I helped my dad print his negatives.

I am lucky to have had an attentive curious and loving dad and heart-smart down-to-earth gifted mother. They changed the outlooks of their own lives and have never forgotten the people and organizations that helped them dream bigger than their circumstances should have allowed.

I think my dad has helped me tremendously.

From 1965 to 1967 my dad Jack Gilligan served in Congress and helped pass landmark laws like the Voting Rights Act.

The 'Bird's Nest' National Stadium which I helped to conceive is designed to embody the Olympic spirit of 'fair competition.' It tells people that freedom is possible but needs fairness courage and strength.

THE GODS was my first professional band and I learned a lot during that time. It was very cool playing with so many great musicians as it helped me to learn.

I've helped create over 400 jobs in the worst economy of my lifetime. That's cool.

The low points I had all helped make up my character so I probably wouldn't want to do away with them because I like being flawed and I like having them help me grow and change and become better and stronger.

I wasn't one to go out and buy a new car and stereo system and expensive clothes. My mom helped keep me grounded.

On Memorial Day I was out floating on Lake Norman and came across Denny Hamlin. We struck up a conversation and one of the first things we were talking about was how much it helped him when he started racing the Cup car and how much it helped his Nationwide program.