Why subscribe?

Welcome! I’m glad you’re here.

​This space is a collection of personal reflections, local insights, and honest takes on navigating public service, running an independent business, and intentional living.

​I’m a lifelong resident of Hiawatha, Iowa, and last November, I took a step from the sidelines to the dais when I was sworn into the Hiawatha City Council. Serving our community has given me a profound shift in perspective on how local government works, the importance of free speech, and what it truly means to show up for the people around you.

​Beyond public service, I recently took the leap into being 100% self-employed. When I’m not at a council meeting, you can usually find me teaching community education courses at Kirkwood, managing a local rental duplex, or deep in a project involving open-source software, retro tech, or local history.

​What to Expect

​This Substack is an independent, ad-free project. I write simply to share ideas, document the journey, and spark meaningful conversations. When you subscribe, you’ll get:

​Behind-the-Scenes of Public Service: Honest observations on local government, community growth, and civic duty.

​The Self-Employment Journey: Real talk on building an independent business, digital minimalism, and working on your own terms.

​Local & Practical Perspectives: Occasional thoughts on everything from house hacking to tech repairability and the history around us.

​No Tiers, No Pledges

​This publication is entirely free. I am not looking to sell subscriptions or gatekeep information. My goal is simply to share perspective and stay connected with neighbors, peers, and anyone interested in practical, community-minded thinking.

​Thanks for reading, and I hope you’ll join the conversation.