Justin Merrell

Developer

Maker

Dropout

Traveler

Learner

ΦΣΚ

Justin Merrell

Developer

Maker

Dropout

Traveler

Learner

ΦΣΚ

About Me

Welcome to my little corner of the internet, where I share the lessons and experiences from my unconventional journey. My name is Justin Merrell, and I've been on a quest for knowledge, self-discovery, and financial independence.

 

The internet can be a noisy place that fragments who we are. This website serves as a point of origin to bring together my story and insights.

 

From dropping out of college to founding a makerspace that raised a quarter of a million dollars in federal funding and earned me an invitation to the White House, I've learned that there's never a "perfect" time for anything. Taking the road less traveled may be lonely at times, but it has ultimately been rewarding and full of valuable lessons.

 

In recent years, I've embraced a minimalistic lifestyle, which has taught me the importance of simplicity and helped me find balance in my personal and professional life. I aim to inspire and guide individuals of all ages who are working tirelessly to pursue their dreams and to share my insights on navigating the complexities of life and business.

 

With a background in various projects and experiences, I've learned the importance of considering alternative perspectives and giving others the benefit of the doubt. My core values center around not following the masses, seeking happiness outside of the traditional path, and continuously learning and growing.

 

Through this website, I hope to organize my thoughts and experiences into a source of inspiration and guidance for others. Join me as I share the life lessons, adventures, and successes that have shaped who I am today.

Ventures
Recursion.Space
Open-Source, Projects, Startups
brickbox.io
Startups
VCHIP
Open-Source, Projects
Catalyst Space
Startups
Blog
An illustration of a brain split in half. The left side is a complex, glowing circuit of code, and the right side is a calm, organized library.
July 20, 2025 The Documentation Paradox

You’re back in a college lab, excited about the hands-on experiment. Then comes the dreaded phrase from the professor: “And…

A person standing on the edge of a cliff, looking out at the sunrise over the ocean, with a determined expression on their face. The ocean and sunrise represent the unknown and the possibilities that come with taking action.
December 18, 2022 Now.

We’ve all heard the phrase, “there’s never a perfect time.” It’s a common cliché, but it’s also one of the…

An AI generated image of a robot created by a prompt written by AI.
December 5, 2022 A Closer Look at ChatGPT: The AI Language Model That Will Blow Your Mind

As an entrepreneur and developer, I am constantly on the lookout for the latest and greatest in AI technology. Recently,…

November 3, 2022 Dedication | Being an Entrepreneur

When we think of the word entrepreneur, many images come to mind. We think of a person as an entrepreneur…

Synthesized AI Writings

June 11, 2025 Evolve | Navigating AI and Human Consciousness through the Phenomenon of Modern Technology

“Explore the dynamic dance between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and human consciousness as we navigate the evolving ecosystem of technology. Our journey to personal and societal evolution hinges on the seamless integration of these two realms. Discover how the advent of AI is not just about Hollywood-style robots but about real, transformative, everyday changes that help us script our future. Bask in this era where business moguls can be coding enthusiasts, and a knowledge of Excel could revolutionize your problem-solving abilities.”

June 4, 2025 Synthesis | The Odyssey of AI-Powered Self-Revolution in an Unchartered Economic Landscape

Embark on an AI-powered, self-revolutionary odyssey into an unchartered economic landscape where human cognition and artificial intelligence dance in a constantly evolving arena. Witness how courage, complexity, and the tools of AI sculpt not only a new world but transform us as well. This journey isn’t just about innovative strategies and ventures, but an extraordinary personal transformation in a realm powered by AI and human synergy. Brace yourself for a journey worth embarking upon!

Reads
The book cover for "Outliers: The Story of Success" by Malcolm Gladwell.
July 20, 2025 Outliers | Success is Not a Solo Act

Our culture loves the myth of the self-made genius. We picture the brilliant founder in a garage or the prodigy…

The book cover of "Psycho-Cybernetics" by Maxwell Maltz.
July 20, 2025 Psycho-Cybernetics | Your Self-Image is a Legacy System

Why do we get stuck? We read the books, attend the seminars, and set the goals, yet often find ourselves…

The book cover of "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert T. Kiyosaki.
July 20, 2025 Rich Dad Poor Dad | How a Single Book Rewired My Entire Outlook on Life

I was a teenager when I first read “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” and to say it had an impact would…

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