The one person who influenced me the most was Joe Cossman. His book, "How I Made $1,000,000 In Mail Order" is a great step by step here's how you do it text book for anyone wanting to start their own business. I also purchased his audio tapes which were also quite good. Anyhoo, this is the guy who got me off the mark and caused me to take action toward starting my own business. I still use his techniques to this day. Mr. Cossman has a web site at; www.cossman.com
Another guy is Mark Nolan. I purchased his book, "Instant Cash-Flow" which deals with free press probably 6 years ago and it can still be found on my desk since I refer to it often. If anyone is looking to promote their business/products by using free press, they need this book! Period. . . There's alot out there regarding this subject but Mark, in his conversational style of writing makes it very easy to understand. The examples he gives in the book are also very inspirational. He also has a newsletter which is very good. And there it is, my 2¢ worth!
Gary
P.S. By the way, I'm also pleased to see your board activity pick up. Keep up the good work, Klaus!