Todd’s Eight Rules of the Road: Lessons for Leadership and Lifelong Learning

 

                                                                  © 2025 Scott Freiberger

This article is dedicated to my youngest brother Todd "Fantastic,” who lived life the way most of us can only dream, full of adventure, joy, kindness, and an unrelenting desire to leave the world better than he found it.

Todd believed that learning was not only something to be done in classrooms or on paper, but it was also a lifelong pursuit, an attitude, and a way of being. He embraced the world with open arms, eager to share what he learned and inspire others to do the same. His philosophy was simple yet profound: “As long as you're always learning, you're always winning.”

Todd wasn’t afraid to take risks. He believed in “jumping off of cliffs and growing your wings on the way down,” a testament to his courage, his ability to embrace uncertainty, and his trust in life's unfolding opportunities. These were not only words to him, but they were also a way of life.

His legacy is not just in the places he traveled, the people he met, or the adventures he led and pursued, it is in the way he inspired others to lead with curiosity and heart. Todd’s leadership style was one of inclusion, respect, and relentless optimism. Whether through a conversation on a bustling street corner or a quiet moment with a friend in need, he led by example, showing that true leadership is about lifting others up, embracing differences, and making space for growth.

Todd’s Eight Rules of the Road

Todd lived by eight principles that defined his approach to life, leadership, and learning. They were simple, profound, and transformative, offering guidance for anyone willing to embrace them.

  1. Any situation can be improved with music! Whether lifting spirits or setting the tone for an unforgettable moment, Todd understood that music has the power to connect people and transform life experiences.

  2. Try and leave every place better than how you found it. This was Todd’s way of saying that we all have the power to impact the world around us, whether by picking up litter, sharing knowledge, or offering all living creatures kindness.

  3. Anytime something is someone's favorite, it is worth looking into. His deep curiosity meant that he never dismissed others’ passions; instead, he explored them, expanding his own understanding in the process, and always with a willingness to learn.

  4. There is always room for more good people in life. Todd welcomed connections, believing that the richness of life was in the people we meet and the relationships we nurture.

  5. Work with what you have; start from where you are. Todd knew that perfection was an illusion and that real growth comes from embracing the present and making the most of what’s available.

  6. Accept each person on his or her own terms; meet people where they are. Judgment was never his way; instead, he continually practiced empathy and understanding, meeting people in their own realities with compassion and kindness.

  7. Take care of the things that take care of you; always take care of your people. Whether it was helping communities, nurturing relationships, or offering resources, Todd understood the importance of reciprocity and responsibility. He was an ardent advocate for artists and local musicians, and a friendly, familiar face at art and music festivals, particularly Burning Man, where he supported artists, staffers, and attendees as a Black Rock Ranger known by the name "Ranger Fantastic;" according to Todd, you could always find him "navigating the edge of chaos, always there to help, [and] disappearing into the dust when no longer needed."

  8. Leave room for error. Life isn’t perfect, and neither are we. Todd understood that mistakes are not failures, and that life is rife with opportunities for growth and learning.

Continuing the Journey

Todd’s wisdom is not just a reflection of the life he lived, but a roadmap for all of us who remain. His lessons challenge us to embrace lifelong learning, lead with generosity, and approach the world with a heart wide open. His compassionate philosophy reminds us that leadership isn’t about accolades or titles, it’s about the ways we uplift others, embrace challenges, and continually seek understanding.

Todd “Fantastic” left this world too soon, but his spirit lives on in the lessons he taught and the lives he touched. If we honor his Eight Rules of the Road, we will ensure that his legacy continues, not only as a memory, but also as an enduring force that shapes how we lead, learn, and love.

Todd, my dear youngest brother and phenomenal friend, I will continue to pursue my passions the way that you continually inspired me and others to overcome obstacles and achieve goals. You are missed beyond words, but your light continues to guide us.

Offering others encouragement and support is a tribute to your kindness. Exploring nature and respecting our planet is a welcome nod to your compassion. Every success, a quiet celebration of your legacy. Lessons learned: pursue your passions, live with purpose, cultivate kindness, and love life, because it is both fleeting and precious.

Until we meet again, Todd, on the next trail, in the next sunrise, know that your unrelenting spirit will continue to inspire. 

Toddspeed. Fantastic, indeed. 

Todd loved animals.
If you would like to, you may make a donation to one of the following organizations
or plant a tree anywhere in Todd’s memory.

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, UT 84741

                                                                      Elmira Wildlife Sanctuary

13910 Seminole Trail, Wimauma, FL 33598

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