Welcome to Learn with Joel

Twelve years of laughter, creativity, changing hairstyles, and unforgettable memories. As Hudson celebrates his 12th birthday, I look back through the photographs and videos that capture the little boy he was, the young man he's becoming, and everything I hope he never loses along the way.

They might not love the outfits or being told how to pose, but Bennett and Hudson have always been willing to go along with my photography adventures. And honestly, that means more to me than they'll probably ever know.

What started as a spontaneous decision to see Metallica at the Sphere turned into an unforgettable Las Vegas adventure with my three older brothers. From an unexpected Snake Pit upgrade to late-night adventures, laughter, and a few expensive lessons, this trip reminded me why sometimes you just have to book the trip.

Growing up, we'd hop on our bikes and disappear for hours. No GPS, no plans, just the freedom to explore. Now, watching Bennett and Hudson discover that same independence, I'm reminded of what made being a kid so special.

I’ve lived in Minnesota for almost as long as I lived in the place where I grew up. So why do I sometimes still feel like the new guy? A reflection on home, friendship, family, belonging, and the roots we build along the way.

I walked the same sidewalk twice. The first time, I didn't notice a thing. The second time, I discovered messages beneath my feet that reminded me just how much of life we miss when we're too busy thinking about what's next.

After a marriage ended, nearly everything I owned went into boxes and a new house began rising from an empty patch of dirt. This is a personal story about rebuilding my home, faith, health, creativity, and life with my boys—and discovering that we were building far more than a house.