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Bitcoin and Me
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Bitcoin and Me

Author: Gary Smith

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A podcast exploring the personal stories behind discoveries of Bitcoin; money mindset, emotional and psychological impact of volatility and considerations for the ‘end game’.
54 Episodes
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Pizza Day 22 May 2026 - info and tickets ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.bsebtc.co.uk/event-details/the-pizza-day-thing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode, I speak with Jason Deane from Renewablox about the intersection of Bitcoin, energy and infrastructure.Jason begins by reflecting on his early experiences with money, the impact of education and student debt, and how those shaped his financial habits. He then shares his journey into Bitcoin and the thinking that led him to focus on mining as a practical application.We explore his work with Renewablox, looking at how Bitcoin mining can be used to address energy wastage, grid constraints and inefficiencies in energy markets. Jason explains how mining can act as a flexible load, the challenges of navigating energy contracts, and how these systems are evolving.The conversation also covers the economics of mining, including costs, revenue models, treasury strategies and payback periods, as well as innovative approaches such as using mining for heat generation in commercial settings. Throughout, Jason shares his perspective on how Bitcoin mining could play a growing role in energy optimisation and future infrastructure. I could have spoken to him for hours - a genuinely fascinating conversation, I hope you enjoy it too!
Pizza Day 22 May 2026 - info and tickets ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.bsebtc.co.uk/event-details/the-pizza-day-thing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode, I chat with Rebel Money to explore the intersection of art, money and Bitcoin.We begin with his early memories of money and how his teenage years combined entrepreneurship with creative pursuits. He reflects on art as something that provided direction and meaning, particularly in contrast to what he describes as the “treadmill” of modern life.The conversation expands into the cultural impact of social media, the importance of human interaction, and how emerging technologies like AI may shape the future of creativity. From there, we move into Bitcoin but not just as a financial tool, but as a cultural and philosophical shift.Rebel Money shares his perspective on Bitcoin as a medium of exchange, the idea of value-for-value from an artist’s standpoint, and the challenges of operating within a fiat system while trying to live and create differently. We also explore Bitcoin as an act of rebellion, the importance of time and trust, and how artists can begin integrating Bitcoin into their work and livelihoods.
Nick will be at Pizza Day!Pizza Day 22 May 2026 - info and tickets ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.bsebtc.co.uk/event-details/the-pizza-day-thing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode I speak with Nick Malster, co-founder of Fountain, about how Bitcoin is reshaping the podcasting and creator economy.Nick begins by reflecting on his early memories of money and how his background shaped his understanding of financial systems. He then shares his journey into the Bitcoin space and the path that ultimately led him to build Fountain; a podcast platform that integrates Bitcoin and the Lightning Network to enable instant payments between listeners and creators.We discuss the origins of Fountain, the idea of value-for-value podcasting, and how streaming sats while listening changes the relationship between audiences and creators. Nick explains how Fountain is experimenting with new forms of podcast interaction, including community features, live streaming and group chats, while also tackling the practical challenges of Bitcoin adoption and user experience.The conversation also explores the philosophy behind spending Bitcoin, the evolution of podcast monetisation beyond advertising, and how platforms like Fountain could help build stronger communities around independent media.
Vijay will be at Pizza Day!Pizza Day 22 May 2025 - info and tickets ⁠⁠⁠https://www.bsebtc.co.uk/event-details/the-pizza-day-thing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode I speak with Vijay Selvam, author of Principles of Bitcoin, to explore the deeper ideas behind money, Bitcoin and the economic shifts shaping our future.Vijay begins by reflecting on his early memories of money and how those experiences influenced his thinking about value, savings and financial systems. From there, we examine the historical evolution of money, from commodity money and Gold to modern fiat systems and why he sees Bitcoin as the natural next step in that progression.We discuss the challenges of Bitcoin adoption, including why many people struggle to understand its value, and the kinds of economic shocks that might accelerate global awareness. Vijay also shares his perspective on how emerging technologies like AI could reshape employment and economic structures, and why hard assets such as Bitcoin and gold may become increasingly important in an uncertain future.The conversation also explores the rise of Bitcoin treasury companies, market psychology, and the potential role of regulation as Bitcoin continues to mature. Throughout, Vijay offers a thoughtful framework for understanding Bitcoin not just as a technology, but as a new monetary system.
Pizza Day 22 May 2025 - info and tickets ⁠⁠https://www.bsebtc.co.uk/event-details/the-pizza-day-thing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode, Molly Spiers reflects on her early memories of money and how she joined Coincorner over 11 years ago (despite having no knowledge of Bitcoin at the time). She explains how discovering Bitcoin shifted her understanding of fiat currency, value and long-term economic thinking.We discuss the evolution of Bitcoin businesses, the challenges of marketing Bitcoin in a changing landscape, and the role mainstream media has played in shaping public perception. Molly highlights the urgent need for stronger financial education and why understanding money itself is foundational to Bitcoin adoption.The conversation explores practical education initiatives, including teaching financial literacy to young people and engaging communities at a grassroots level. Molly also shares her perspective on women in Bitcoin, representation in the space, and how the industry may evolve in the years ahead.
Pizza Day 22 May 2025 - info and tickets ⁠https://www.bsebtc.co.uk/event-details/the-pizza-day-thing⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode, I sit down with my mate Myles to explore his journey from early memories of money to building (and eventually exiting) a successful plumbing business. He reflects on how his family and teenage influences shaped his approach to money management, and how cultural attitudes toward property investment informed his early financial philosophy.We discussed his transition into Bitcoin, how it reshaped his investment mindset, and how his conviction grew along the way. He shared candid iThe conversation went deeper than Bitcoin price and utility. We explored the rapid evolution of AI alongside Bitcoin, and how faith, morality, and Christianity intersect with his understanding of money and sovereignty. He offered thoughtful reflections on Bitcoin as a tool for refugees, the future role of churches in a Bitcoin world, and how his beliefs about work, purpose, and life balance have evolved through this journey.By the end, this episode became less about price and more about principles, examining how Bitcoin can influence not just wealth, but worldview, faith, and the way we live.
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode, I sat down with Dunc from Solo Mining Co to explore the world of Bitcoin mining from the ground up — from early memories of money to the realities of home mining today. Dunc explains how mining has evolved, starting from the days of solo mining to the rise of mining pools, breaking down the process in a way that makes it accessible to anyone.We dug into topics like the 51% attack, the differences between altruistic solo miners and pooling resources, and the unique challenges and opportunities facing miners in the UK. He shared innovative, practical approaches for mining at home, along with insights into how mining technology is changing and what the future may look like.We also talked about mining strategies, market dynamics, the economics behind mining, and why running your own node remains essential. Toward the end, we reflected on how Bitcoin — and especially mining — has the power to shift beliefs and reshape how people understand money, energy, and sovereignty.
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn my conversation with Selale, we explored her deeply personal journey with money, growth, and finding authenticity through Bitcoin. She reflected on her early memories of money and what it meant to experience financial poverty but mental richness; a mindset that shaped her perspective on value and resilience.Selale spoke about how Bitcoin became a tool for personal transformation, helping her connect with her values and define her own path of contribution within the space. We discussed the fragility of wealth, why spending Bitcoin matters, and the process of moving from fiat work to earning and building entirely in Bitcoin.She shared how her understanding of Bitcoin’s layers evolved, and how that technical learning mirrored her own growth journey; full of mistakes, risks, and self-discovery. We also touched on mental health, the importance of staying authentic amid external pressures, and her views on emerging Bitcoin career paths and projects driving real-world impact.By the end, Selale’s story became a reflection not just on Bitcoin, but on what it means to live honestly, take risks, and align your life with your principles.
In my conversation with Kaitlyn Prince, I had the chance to explore her unique journey growing up in a Bitcoin family and how that early exposure shaped her worldview. She shared what money meant to her as a child travelling abroad, how a nomadic upbringing influenced her independence, and what it was like navigating teenage rebellion while surrounded by Bitcoin talk at home.Kaitlyn opened up about learning to communicate Bitcoin concepts to friends and peers who weren’t familiar with it, and how those experiences helped her bridge different perspectives. We discussed how Bitcoin has influenced her career aspirations, her first time teaching others about it, and the nerves and excitement of stepping on stage for the first time at BSE Conf in September.She also reflected on the importance of having diverse voices in the Bitcoin space, the role of younger generations in shaping the movement, and how creating content and co hosting the BPUK podcast have helped her find community and purpose. Toward the end, we explored how her beliefs about Bitcoin have evolved and what she envisions for the future as the next generation takes the reins.
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets⁠ - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this session, we turn to one of the most significant developments in the Bitcoin space here in the UK right now; the arrival of Bitcoin ETNs, or Exchange Traded Notes.For many, these instruments represent the bridge between traditional finance and the Bitcoin world — a way for institutions and retail investors to gain exposure within the existing regulatory framework.The discussion begins with a look at how UK regulation has evolved, what differentiates ETNs, ETFs, and ETPs, and how these products actually work under the hood.Ray from Bitwise talks through the mechanics of their Bitcoin ETNs; why physical backing matters and how they’re structured. From there, the conversation widens into tax implications, regulatory hurdles, and what institutional adoption really looks like in practice.It’s a fascinating look at how Bitcoin is moving from the fringes into mainstream investment portfolios not just as a speculative asset, but as a credible, regulated product.Plenty of discussion about the pros, cons and considerations of self custody versus buying 'paper Bitcoin' within and ISA or a SIPP.
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Prague tickets - use code GARYBTC for 10% offIn this episode, I speak with Matyas, one half of the sibling driving force behind BTC Prague — Europe’s largest Bitcoin-only conference — to uncover how a small local idea exploded into a global phenomenon. We dive into how Bitcoin culture in Europe has evolved, what it takes to build a true Bitcoin community, and the behind the scenes challenges of pulling off a world class event without compromising on the mission.Matyas shares the unique vibe of BTC Prague; why it’s not just another conference, but a meeting ground for ideas, innovation, and connection. We talk about the Czech Republic’s role as a Bitcoin hub, including its no capital gains tax law, a regulatory environment that’s empowering adoption. We also touch on the philosophical side of Bitcoin: is it a store of value, a medium of exchange, or both?From attracting big names and sponsors to sparking mindset shifts across Europe, this conversation is about how grassroots passion meets global impact. By the end, we explore the future of Bitcoin in Europe and how each of us can play a part in driving change; one block, one connection, one story at a time. Plus some exclusive spoilers for BTC Prague 2026!
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.Two more sessions - the final two! - with the first one being a panel session on 'Bitcoin for Creatives' and the final session on TAKING ACTION - a rallying call for all UK Bitcoiners.I do hope you've enjoyed listening to these discussions - either reliving the day if you were there, or giving you a glimpse into the event if you didn't come. DATE FOR THE DIARY - 12 September 2026 for the second BSE Conference; Bitcoin, Sovereignty, Economics. Tickets aren't on sale yet, but save the date and keep your eyes peeled for news on X at @BSEConf
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.Two more sessions - one around the future of Layer 2 (Lightning network, NOSTR), and a 'statement session' for 'Paper Bitcoin is Bad for Bitcoin'.Enjoy!
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.Two more sessions - the 'statement session' for Bitcoiners Live in an Echo Chamber and a panel discussion on the future of Bitcoin Mining.Enjoy!
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.This was the heavyweight panel of the day with a pretty much full ballroom - Bitcoin Treasury Companies. Enjoy!
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.These are back to back 'Ask Me Anything' sessions that took place just before and just after lunch. Enjoy!
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.The first session is a panel discussion exploring whether Bitcoin really is 'inevitable'. This is followed by a 'statement session' where the statement in question is 'Politics is good for Bitcoin'. Two panellists take the 'yes' stance, two 'no'.Enjoy!
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.The first session is 'Bitcoin in Personal Finance', followed by 'Bitcoin for Future Generations'. Both amazing conversations that I'm sure you'll enjoy!
⁠⁠YouTube Channel - Bitcoin & Me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on X⁠A series of recordings from the stage at BSE conference - the first Bitcoin conference in East Anglia which took place at The Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds on 20 Sep 2025.This first episode features the opening talk from Henry Herbert then the panel discussion covering the 'State of Our Nation'.
In my conversation with Freddie New, we explored both his personal journey and his work with Bitcoin Policy UK. Freddie began by sharing vivid childhood memories of growing up in Zimbabwe during a period of high inflation, and how those experiences shaped his views on money, frugality, and financial resilience. We then moved into his reflections on student debt, the impact of government policies, and the tension between personal responsibility and systemic disincentives.On a more personal level, Freddie opened up about balancing his Bitcoin advocacy with his personal life, and he gave some insight into his position as CEO of BHODL, a new company about to list on the UK stock market. We wrapped up by discussing what the future of Bitcoin might look like in the UK, and how his work aims to guide that development.This conversation was a long time in coming, but it was well worth the wait!
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