42 and Still Rocking the 90s Beat: A Tech-Savvy Dad's Journey Through Decades

Turning 42 hasn’t brought the slowdown I expected in my teenage years. Instead, it’s a surprising blend of youthful curiosity and modern wisdom. Growing up, I imagined middle age as some distant, “serious” period of life, yet here I am—more energized, tech-obsessed, and, honestly, more in sync with my kids than I’d ever anticipated. My days aren’t marked by “settling down,” but by riding the relentless wave of technology that’s reshaping how we live, connect, and communicate.

Growing up in the 90s gave me a foundation of curiosity and creativity, and even as the world speeds into new digital territory, I’m fueled by that same sense of wonder. Whether I’m showing my kids Mario and Sonic classics or diving into the latest wearable tech, my journey is about bridging worlds—holding onto the freedom of my teenage years while staying sharp, agile, and connected in today’s tech-driven reality.

From 90s Grunge to Dad Life: A Tech-Savvy Dad's Journey

Looking Back: The Unfading 90s Vibe

I’m still rooted in the 90s. Back then, it was grunge and hip-hop, chat rooms, and the hum of a dial-up modem—each was a window into something big, unknown, and exciting. AOL chat rooms offered a new world of anonymous connection, where anyone could join in, exchange ideas, and connect from across the world. It’s wild to think how those early internet days, filled with pixelated avatars and endless possibility, laid the foundation for today’s hyper-connected digital world.

That initial spark hasn’t faded. I’ve kept it alive, moving from dial-up days to the world of smart home tech, AI, and virtual reality. And when I introduce these things to my kids, I’m not just a “dad explaining tech”—I’m part of it, standing beside them as a fellow explorer. The 90s weren’t just a decade; they were my start, and they keep me grounded even as the future unfolds faster than ever.

Growing Older, Staying Younger

As much as I enjoy the modern tech world, I’m not leaving my 90s mindset behind. On the contrary, it fuels me. I still have the same excitement I felt as a teenager, only now I’m blending it with the experience and perspective that comes from two decades of life and work. It’s about finding that perfect balance—using my past to navigate the future, taking what I’ve learned and turning it into something new.

My career in tech lets me see this every day. Take a recent project, for instance, where a young co-worker was struggling to come up with a solution. As I helped out, I couldn’t help but share the thrill of the early internet days—back when every digital step was a leap into something unknown. Those moments remind me that, even though the technology has changed, the feeling of discovery remains the same. The best work comes when we bring together the wisdom of experience with the energy of fresh perspectives.

Navigating Modern Life with a “Classic” Edge

Being a tech-savvy dad in 2023 feels like having a cheat code for life. Today’s challenges—whether it’s balancing remote work or understanding new social media trends—aren’t all that different from those old-school struggles, like recording your favorite songs off the radio without catching the DJ’s commentary. The 90s taught me to be flexible, curious, and ready for change, and I try to pass that mindset to my kids. It’s about being open to the new while staying true to what really matters.

Staying young at heart isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about using the 90s mindset as a tool for living fully today. I’m not interested in keeping up with every social media trend, but when I hear that old dial-up tone in a throwback clip, it still sparks that timeless thrill of possibility. The 90s were more than just a memory—they’re a part of me, one that helps me evolve rather than fade into some “old school” dad stereotype.

So, for anyone out there who grew up with dial-up and now finds themselves raising kids in the age of AI, remember that it’s not about keeping up or staying young. It’s about living with the energy of discovery and the wisdom of experience. For me, that’s the secret to staying connected and relevant, no matter where the tech or trends take us.

Do you have a similar story? What moments from your younger years shaped who you are today? Share in the comments or tag me—I’d love to hear your journey.