Start Here

If you’re new, this is the best place to begin.

Brandon Himpfen is a publication of essays, research, and projects focused on systems, technology, travel, and open knowledge. The work centers on understanding how things function, how they are structured, and how they evolve over time.

There are several ways to explore the work depending on how you prefer to read, learn, and follow along.

Writing

The core of the site is a growing body of writing, including essays, articles, and structured resources. These explore ideas, systems, and real-world applications across different domains.

If you prefer to browse and read at your own pace, this is the best place to start.

Newsletters

Newsletters are a core part of how the work is published and organized.

Alongside a broader network of topic-specific newsletters, there are three member-only publications that serve a distinct role within the overall system: The Desk, The Waypoint, and The Signal. These provide a more direct, sustained, and in-depth way to follow the work over time.

The wider newsletter network includes focused publications across travel, digital nomadism, blogging, digital systems, community, and programming. Together, these provide an ongoing layer of writing and curated updates across key subjects.

If you want a structured starting point, begin with the core member newsletters. If you prefer topic-based reading, explore the broader newsletter collection.

Projects

Projects are a central part of the work, covering open source software, datasets, tools, and independent initiatives.

These range from technical systems and research initiatives to learning resources, civic technology, and creator-focused platforms. Each project is designed to be useful on its own while contributing to a broader, structured body of work.

If you want to explore applied work and systems in practice, start here.

Research

Research focuses on deeper analysis, frameworks, and structured exploration of complex topics.

This includes work on artificial intelligence, digital systems, governance, infrastructure, and public-interest technology. Research is often connected to both writing and projects, providing a more analytical and methodical layer.

If you’re looking for more detailed thinking and structured analysis, this is the best place to go deeper.

Labs

Labs are used for experimentation, prototyping, and early-stage ideas.

This includes testing concepts, building small tools, and exploring new approaches before they become more formalized projects or research. Labs provide a space for iteration and exploration.

If you’re interested in works in progress or experimental systems, explore here.

Domains

Domains organize the different names, brands, and publishing surfaces connected to the work.

This includes both active destinations and structured naming used across projects, resources, and initiatives. The goal is to provide clarity on how everything is organized and connected.

If you want to understand how the broader ecosystem is structured, this is the place to look.

Resources

Resources provide structured, practical materials designed to support learning, building, and exploration.

This includes guides, references, curated collections, and reusable materials across programming, technology, travel, and digital systems.

If you’re looking for tools, references, or curated knowledge, start here.

Membership

Membership supports the work and provides full access to deeper writing and the member-only newsletters.

This includes The Desk, The Waypoint, and The Signal, along with long-form essays and more deliberate analysis developed over time.

Membership is designed for readers who want to stay closely connected to how ideas, systems, and projects evolve.

Where to Start

Start with Writing if you want to explore ideas.
Start with Newsletters if you want ongoing updates.
Start with Projects if you want to see applied work.
Start with Research if you want deeper analysis.