Celebrating 28 Years: Reflecting on the Journey.

Ciceron’s “Curious Fruit” mural

After 28 years in this industry, one might assume we have the exact start date etched in stone. The truth is, the inception of our journey, whether it was September 1st, 1995, or October 1st, 1995, remains a delightful mystery. We’ve leaned towards the latter, but to confirm, I’d need to delve into the Articles of Incorporation, a task I’ve yet to undertake.

A momentous 28 years. To put it in perspective, we’ve surpassed the precarious age of 27, infamous for claiming the lives of rock legends like Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain. We’ve outlived the luminaries of that era. It’s a humbling realization.

So, what’s next? A tour? In a sense, we’re embarking on one. It’s astonishing not only how long we’ve been on this journey but how akin our stories remain.

Recently, I had the privilege of speaking at two distinct conferences centered around Artificial Intelligence (AI). The attendees, one group comprised of technologists from Twin Cities Startup Week, and the other, small business owners from the Midway Chamber of Commerce, all left the sessions markedly wiser than when they entered.

The chasm between being informed about a subject and being an expert in it has narrowed significantly. It’s a phenomenon worth noting. As I addressed these diverse audiences, I couldn’t help but feel a nostalgic echo. It was akin to being 26 again, fervently discussing this revolutionary entity known as the internet, met with intrigued gazes and a hint of skepticism. They knew it held promise, but the path to full comprehension was yet uncharted.

AI, like the internet in its early days, elicits a similar mix of wonder and uncertainty. Personal exposure to this realm is still limited. Demonstrating technologies like Chat GPT, I watched as epiphanies lit up the room.

As I reflect on these 28 years, gratitude and honor wash over me. I’m privileged to embark on this journey anew, armed with experience and a renewed sense of purpose.

Here’s to the next chapter!

Full video post available here.