Today is my birthday. And this one hits a little different.
Because today, as I sit back on this big ol’ wave of gratitude, cold plunges, raw fish, and heartwarming chaos, I realize: I’ve made something beautiful. And not just out of my life, but out of this newsletter. Out of a streak. Out of the lessons, the laughter, the oversharing, and the deep dives into what it means to just be—flawed, funny, fired-up, and fully human.
This is newsletter number twenty-seven, baby. That’s twenty-seven weeks of showing up, writing from the heart, and sometimes from my gut (especially when I eat weird ingredients). It’s a streak that started with an idea and turned into a lifestyle—something between therapy and stand-up comedy. And the best part? You’ve been along for the ride.
So what’s today look like?
It started at 6:00 AM, just me and my two favorite troublemakers—Pinkie and Einstein—staring at me like, “Bro, where’s breakfast?” I fed the little legends and strolled the beach with my actual favorite human (you know who you are), soaking in that early golden light. Then came some gym time, a round of heat therapy in the sauna, and a polar bear baptism in the cold plunge. And tonight? Sushi so big, it needs its own zip code.
Oh—and the messages? Hundreds. I’ve heard from billionaires and big names, mentors and family, old friends and new souls. But my favorites? My mom, my dad, and my sister. The people who’ve seen me barefoot and bloated, not just buff and beaming. You all have shown up for me in ways I can’t explain, and it’s humbling. Thank you for making this world feel less wild and more wonderful.
Some things I’ve learned this year, in no particular order:
Being colorblind and short doesn’t make you any less of a badass. It makes you creative. And great at concerts.
You don’t need all the supplements. You just need peanut butter and sleep.
Small wins matter. Make your bed. Hug your dog. Text your sister.
Let go. Of vices. Of people who drain you. Of the thought that you should be anywhere other than exactly where you are.
You are enough. Even if you don’t have it all figured out. Especially if you don’t.
And today, I’m adding something new to that list:
Dinner tastes better when life feels aligned.
I’m proud of my life. Not because it’s perfect—but because it’s mine. Built with beach walks, belly laughs, bite-sized sushi rolls, and brave, beautiful people like you.
Thank you for reading. For replying. For telling me when I made you laugh or cry or think. This bonus birthday edition isn’t just a celebration of me—it’s a toast to us.
Now go eat something delicious and tell someone you love them.
With deep gratitude (and soy sauce on my shirt),
Todd
Still short. Still colorblind. Still loving every minute of it.
