I don't follow John Carmack closely, but I remember him telling in an interview that his wife took care of their newborn child for the most part so he could sleep 8 hours a night, which he needed to be able to work.
Not saying that his accomplishments aren't impressive, but being John Carmack probably helps doing the things John Carmack does.
Not saying that his accomplishments aren't impressive, but being John Carmack probably helps doing the things John Carmack does.