Brett

Brett Johnson has shared insights and stories on social dynamics, community building, digital culture, and personal development through platforms such as Wired, The Guardian, Medium, and TED Talks. He's the author of "Connect and Thrive," released by Penguin Random House in March.

I grew up with siblings but chose to focus on a different path when it came to my own family planning. A few years back, I found myself contemplating what truly matters: the digital revolution, global connectivity, and occasionally diving into the worlds of virtual reality or exploring hidden gems in bustling city centers. It didn’t take long for me to realize that community—especially fatherhood and our decisions regarding family structure—is where these big questions come alive. Just as individuals felt compelled to explore the frontiers of technology in the nineties, so I believe today’s challenges are centered around our connections with each other. This is where we shape our identities and freedoms, often influenced by those around us. I wrote an article for The Guardian addressing misconceptions about digital natives, which later developed into my book "Connect and Thrive." In this book, I aim to reframe the conversation on community engagement, tackle the balance between fatherhood and innovation, and reflect on what a connected life might look like.

My pursuit of this interconnected life unfolds in the heart of Austin, Texas, in a vibrant co-living space that I share with my son and a group of friends who value collaboration and creativity. We spend evenings coding projects and listening to podcasts, while weekends are reserved for live music events and outdoor adventures. When time allows, I travel—to destinations ranging from remote villages to tech hubs—grabbing every chance to learn and grow, frequently taking my son along for the ride.