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I guess I have some responsibility for that. John Joseph Mathews was a fascinating and complex individual who authored nonfiction and fiction works on Osage history and culture, and he also happened to be my great-grandfather. His writing continues to be an inspiration for me. His perspective on Osage history and culture has deeply influenced my understanding of my own heritage and cultural identity.
Getting back to my workspace, you may notice a few other unique objects in the space. I have a Flipper Zero and a Beepy, both of which reflect my aspirations as a tinkerer and someone with a greater knowledge of computer engineering than I actually possess. Additionally, tucked away somewhere there’s a Raspberry Pi and an “intro to electronics” kit in a drawer, waiting for me to find the time to explore my interests in this area.
I also have a Home Assistant Green that I’ve been meaning to set up. As someone deeply interested in the possibilities of smart home technology, I’ve found that Home Assistant is my preferred platform as it gives me the flexibility to truly customize my smart home setup. Although, at times, I’m also tempted by the simplicity and reliability of a “dumb” home.
As for the other unique items in my office, the timer on my desk is used for pomodoros when I remember to utilize it. Its presence serves as a reminder for me to take regular breaks throughout the workday. The painting on my workspace is actually done by my sister, Naomi, and the postcards on the wall are from my friend, Steve Schaberg, who has a unique subscription service where he sends out screenprinted postcards for a nominal fee every month.
In terms of the books you may see in my workspace, I have a collection of Field Notes notebooks hanging around. These serve as a handy way for me to jot down ideas and notes as they occur to me. They are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Finally, there’s an interesting 1950s AZERTY-layout Hermes 3000 typewriter that I inherited from my wife’s grandparents. It’s a fantastic piece of history, and although it’s in need of a new ribbon and a good cleaning, it’s still functional and serves as a piece of functional art in my workspace.
In conclusion, my workspace is a reflection of my personal and professional interests and is a comfortable, inspiring environment that allows me to be productive and creative. Whether it’s the collection of mechanical keyboards, the assortment of tech gadgets, or the meaningful family heirlooms, each item in my workspace plays a role in motivating and inspiring me in my work at The Verge.
