I think the in-person sessions is an awesome way to get people into it. I think we forget the power of just sitting down with someone and helping them along! I will keep that in mind for sure for the future when I am interested in getting friends or colleagues into it.
That's great you've hit your HP goals! I think it's important to have goals. I didn't have goals in my first few years here but last year and this year I have set myself some goals and have thankfully achieved these goals. Congrats on getting closer to achieving that!