So many great thoughts on this post I don't know where to start... So lets start with this one.

Instead of complaining about them, you should thank them instead

Drop the mic, then pick it back up because the rest of your post is money. Like you said, you spent time getting to know these heavy hitters before starting out.

You took the time to network and LEARN, which is key to success. Plus, I often wonder: how much have these newbies invested in the process instead of asking for pity? Thanks for the share always a pleasure reading!