s the July ’25 issue of Modern Rodding (MR) hits your hands, we invite you to join us in celebrating a significant milestone: our fifth anniversary. For those who might not know the story, MR began its journey as a bimonthly publication, with just three issues gracing the stands before transitioning to monthly editions in January 2021. Time flies when you’re having fun; indeed, it has been quite the ride.

Reflecting on the tumultuous landscape we entered during the “rockiest of times,” it’s hard to ignore our challenges. For many of us, our old employer, automotive magazines, which were often cast aside, were treated with indifference as the world grappled with economic uncertainties and the pandemic. Amidst the chaos of a toilet paper shortage and the looming threat of COVID-19, we forged ahead, driven by the steadfast enthusiasm of our hot rod community. We continued to be hot rodders, trying to bring some moments of comfort during uncomfortable times.

As I keystroke this from mid-year 2025, we stand on the brink of uncertainty again, feeling the ripples of tariffs and their possible ramifications on our beloved hobby. Yet, history has taught us resilience; while there may be stories of heartache, we also anticipate the triumphs that lie ahead.

On a lighter note, one silver lining during the pandemic was the unprecedented emptiness of the roads … save for the occasional highway patrol officer zipping by without a care in his world! Taking the roadster or my classic Corvette for a leisurely 30-mile cruise felt like a hidden treasure, an opportunity to feel the wind through my receding hairline and bugs in my teeth, the beauty of driving without interruption. During these reflective drives, the essence of magazine life shifted forever.

So, what’s changed in our hobby these past five years? Locally, grassroots events are thriving, perhaps even multiplying, while traditional national gatherings seem to be losing traction—travel expenses weighing heavily on many pockets. Yet, the spirit of building and enjoying hot rods remains as vital as ever. How do we keep that spirit alive for you, our fellow MR readers?

Previously, our content focused heavily on tech articles, car features, and event coverage. However, the surge of social media and platforms like YouTube have revolutionized how we engage with our passions. With event coverage now just a click away, it’s becoming a challenge for print to keep pace. Yet, we believe magazines can still offer in-depth narratives and elevated storytelling that sets us apart from the fleeting glimpses online. Proudly and presumptuously, I think we do a better job covering our hobby in print than many do in other arenas.

While the Internet is awash with tech stories, we have decided to take a more deeply enthusiastic approach. We strive to present accurate, comprehensive content that hot rodders can rely on. YouTube plays a crucial role in the future of our hobby, and at MR we’re excited to expand our own video offerings. With intriguing events captured and compelling car features already seen on the MR YouTube or viewed through QR codes in print, we aim to blend traditional storytelling with modern audiovisual experiences.

Despite the rise of digital platforms, the magazine you hold, rolled up in your back pocket, tucked in your toolbox, or displayed proudly on your coffee table, remains a treasured source of information within the hot rod community.

As we tuck five years of memories and achievements onto our “bookshelf,” we look eagerly to the future, envisioning another five decades of passion, innovation, and camaraderie. You can count on us for a steady flow of tech articles, stunning car features, and the year’s most notable events. With ever-advancing tools, materials, and products available for the at-home garage builder, we’re excited to showcase how the at-home hot rodder can now create ever more sophisticated and technologically advanced hot rods.

So, stay connected and keep an eye on your mailbox each month. Together, we will continue to explore the full-throttle journey that is Modern Rodding. Cheers to the past five years and many more filled with the thrill of hot rodding!