I haven't contacted any of them directly actually, but that's a great idea! I imagine I wasn't the only one who they inspired.

I'm doing mostly frontend stuff (React recently) at a startup here called ResearchGate. I really enjoy it, but I do still have to make a conscious effort to not let the job take over my life—moving to Germany wasn't a cure-all in that sense. I've certainly learned more here than at any other job though. Same goes for my life outside of work, for that matter. =)