NorCal and Shill

Send us Fan MailKlutch takes us behind the scenes of his transformation from skeptical observer to passionate NFT collector, sharing the pivotal moments that shaped his Web3 journey. As an accomplished Web2 founder with over $500 million in retail sales and one million satisfied customers, Klutch brings a unique business perspective to digital collecting.The conversation reveals how a profound life lesson from his father's final days fundamentally changed his approach to challenges. "Promise me you're going to finish school," his father asked, a simple request that flipped a switch in Klutch's mind and transformed him from a struggling student to an achiever overnight. This transformative experience taught him the power of commitment and focus—principles he now applies to his collecting strategy.Klutch articulates why he believes digital art will become "the number one collectible in the world," highlighting the frictionless nature of blockchain-based trading compared to traditional collectibles. "You want to buy a car, you're probably buying a car in your local region," he explains, contrasting this with the global reach of NFT markets. This worldwide connectivity not only facilitates commerce but fosters human connection across borders, leading to his observation that "we're all so much more alike than we are different."Most revealing is Klutch's evolution from quick flips to strategic collecting. "Less degen behavior and more of a long-term view," he advocates, describing his transformation from chasing quick profits to dollar cost averaging into artists whose work and values resonate with him. This maturation mirrors the broader evolution occurring within the NFT space as it moves from speculation toward sustainable collecting practices.Whether you're curious about NFTs, interested in collecting strategies, or simply enjoy stories of personal growth, this conversation offers valuable insights into how digital ownership is reshaping our relationship with art and commerce. Subscribe to hear more conversations with collectors and creators who are building the future of digital culture.Support the show

Send us Fan MailVenture into the dynamic world of crypto art and NFTs with Eli Scheinman, whose journey from skepticism to passionate advocate offers fresh perspectives on digital ownership and creativity.Eli's story begins with healthy doubt – finding NFTs both "crazy" and "absurd" – yet these very qualities sparked a curiosity that led him deep into the blockchain art ecosystem. Unlike traditional collectors with lifelong habits, Eli approached the space with fresh eyes, drawn not to collectability but to the revolutionary creative canvas blockchain technology offers artists and creators.The conversation takes a particularly meaningful turn when discussing the human element of Web3. "The best things in Web3 for me are the relationships," Eli shares, highlighting an intriguing paradox where digital objects become the connective tissue for profound real-world connections. For adults who typically struggle to form diverse new friendships, the Web3 community has facilitated connections across geographical, professional, and cultural boundaries in ways traditional social structures rarely achieve.Looking toward the future, Eli offers a measured perspective on adoption timelines, suggesting that while five years might not show dramatic shifts in the collector landscape, the 10-20 year horizon will likely reveal substantial evolution as digital-native generations gain purchasing power. His market insights cut through typical hype cycles with practical wisdom: "Demand matters more than supply," he notes, explaining why established artists can expand their output while emerging creators must be more strategic.Beyond crypto discourse, Eli's fascinating life experiences enrich the discussion – from a solo bicycle journey from Vancouver to Mexico followed by months working on a Hawaiian farm, to meaningful time spent with seed savers of heirloom rice in rural South India. These adventures have shaped his minimalist collecting philosophy, where meaningful connection trumps accumulation.Whether you're a seasoned collector, curious creator, or simply interested in how technology shapes culture and community, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the human connections forming at the intersection of art and technology.https://x.com/eli_scheinSupport the show

Send us Fan MailArt has always been about storytelling, but what happens when collecting digital art becomes a way to document your own life journey? In this deeply personal conversation, Boona opens up about how a single NFT purchase captured the 10-year anniversary of his path to sobriety – a pivotal decision that changed everything.Boona's perspective as both a podcaster and collector gives him unique insights into the world of digital art. He shares the lightning-bolt moment when he first discovered NFTs during the 2021 Clubhouse boom, comparing it to the feeling he had when Steve Jobs unveiled the first iPhone. For a lifelong gamer who had spent thousands on digital assets he never truly owned, blockchain ownership just made sense.What keeps him passionate about web3 is the community built on authenticity. "It's the first community centered around something that incentivizes people to be authentic," he explains, noting how on-chain reputation creates natural accountability. Yet he doesn't shy away from addressing challenges, particularly what he calls the "dead zone" – art priced between 1-9 ETH that struggles during market downturns, leaving many talented artists in limbo.Looking toward the future, Boona offers a bold prediction: within five years, all significant art will incorporate code components. "We're not even in a renaissance yet," he argues, suggesting that truly revolutionary art requires embracing technological mediums rather than simply digitizing traditional forms. His call for more honest criticism in the space comes from a place of genuine care – seeing the potential for something truly transformative if we're willing to have difficult conversations.Beyond collecting, Boona shares exciting developments with his company Schiller, including their upcoming third season of media programming and the launch of Merch, a neo-couture fashion brand blending physical luxury with NFTs. This integration of technology with fashion exemplifies exactly the kind of thoughtful innovation he advocates for throughout our conversation.Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the space, this episode offers valuable insights on finding meaning in digital collecting and the courage to voice constructive criticism. Follow us for more conversations that explore both the art and heart of web3.https://x.com/BoonaETHSupport the show

Send us Fan MailGabe Weis entered the world of NFTs in January 2021 with the same intuitive excitement he regrettably ignored when first encountering Bitcoin years earlier. This time, he wasn't going to miss the revolution.After a 20-year career in politics and community organizing—working for the Senate, unions, and education associations—Gabe's transition to full-time artist surprised nearly everyone in his circle. What they didn't know was that he'd been quietly painting almost every day since high school, using art as both meditation and a way to engage more deeply during the countless meetings his political career demanded. Those doodles, often gifted to meeting participants, were the foundation of a practice that would eventually lead him to the forefront of the NFT movement.What makes Gabe's perspective particularly valuable is how he bridges these seemingly disparate worlds. His community organizing skills transferred seamlessly to building collector communities, while his political understanding helps him navigate the complex social dynamics of Web3. Rather than chasing astronomical prices for one-of-ones, Gabe envisions a future where digital art creates a sustainable middle class of artists through more accessible pricing and innovative models like weekly limited editions or subscription approaches.Our conversation delves into practical insights about pricing strategy (including what Gabe calls the "dead zone" between 3-15 ETH), the advantages of low reserve auctions versus maintaining artificial floor prices, and the evolution of editions versus one-of-ones. But perhaps most compelling is his call for greater forgiveness in a space that can sometimes rush to judgment, and his emphasis on building genuine connections through simple practices like showing warmth and excitement when greeting others.Whether you're an artist looking to navigate the Web3 landscape, a collector interested in supporting creators sustainably, or simply fascinated by the intersection of technology and creative expression, Gabe's journey from corn fields to crypto offers a refreshing perspective on building community around digital art. Listen now to discover why thick skin, trusted advisors, and authentic excitement might be the most valuable assets in the evolving NFT space.https://x.com/GabrielJWeisSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when life's unexpected twists lead you down an entirely new creative path? In this captivating conversation with photographer Billy Dinh, we explore how a stolen camera became the catalyst for abandoning his successful illustration career and embracing photography—eventually leading him into the world of NFTs and Web3.Billy shares the fascinating story of his artistic evolution, from doodling as a child to freelancing for Marvel Comics, before finding his true calling behind the lens. After discovering NFTs through Instagram in March 2021, he initially approached the space as a collector before realizing the potential for authenticating and selling his own photographic work. Unlike many NFT origin stories that focus solely on financial gains, Billy was drawn by the technology's ability to provide verifiable attribution—addressing a longstanding concern for creators whose work is frequently appropriated without permission or compensation.What makes Billy's perspective particularly valuable is his balanced approach to creative entrepreneurship. While maintaining a successful career as a product manager in the tech industry, he's built a significant presence as a photographer in the NFT space. Drawing wisdom from Elizabeth Gilbert's book "Big Magic," Billy challenges the notion that legitimacy as an artist requires abandoning financial stability. This refreshing viewpoint offers encouragement to creators feeling pressured to "go all in" before they're ready.For artists navigating or considering entry into NFTs, Billy offers three essential pieces of advice: don't make digital assets your entire identity or financial strategy; practice patience as finding your audience may take time; and be prepared to develop promotion and community-building skills alongside your creative practice. His journey illustrates how Web3 empowers artists by removing traditional gatekeepers while simultaneously requiring them to take on new responsibilities.Ready to gain insights from someone who's successfully balancing creative passion with practical stability? Listen now and discover why sometimes the best artistic journeys don't follow a straight line.https://x.com/billydeee_https://www.instagram.com/billydeeeSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to transform a teenage fascination with Microsoft Paint into collaborations with global brands like Nike, Apple, and Mercedes-Benz? In this candid conversation, digital artist Rik Oostenbroek pulls back the curtain on his remarkable 19-year creative journey.Rik's story begins in a small Dutch town where his teacher parents emphasized education and sports over artistic pursuits. His creative awakening came during his rebellious teenage years when a friend introduced him to DeviantArt, sparking a self-taught design education that would eventually lead to designing flyers for local events in exchange for free drinks. By age 17, he had landed his first major client—Volkswagen—after his portfolio unexpectedly gained over 100,000 views in a single day.The conversation takes fascinating turns as Rik shares his evolution from freelancer to art director for Cirque du Soleil in Montreal, ultimately returning to independence when he discovered corporate environments stifled his creativity. His philosophy of "always remember why you started" has guided him through the volatile Web3 landscape, where he found both supportive collectors and new possibilities for digital art. Rik's refreshing honesty about the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity while building commercial success offers valuable insights for creators at any stage.Looking ahead, Rik reveals details about his six-month collaboration on a generative art project, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and artistic growth. Whether discussing his dream of living in Japan or LA, his experience getting scammed in the early crypto days, or his obsession with risotto, Rik's authentic passion for creativity shines throughout this conversation.Ready to be inspired? Listen now and discover why remembering your creative roots might be the most powerful tool for navigating an artistic career in today's rapidly changing digital landscape.https://x.com/RikOostenbroekSupport the show

Send us Fan MailDigital artist Efdot takes us on a journey through the evolving landscape of crypto art and his creative process, revealing how he navigated from traditional beginnings to becoming a voice in the Web3 art movement.The conversation opens with Efdot's origin story – how digital tools were already part of his creative workflow before discovering the blockchain, using his iPad to design large-scale murals by drawing over photographs of walls. When he discovered people collecting digital art with the same reverence as physical pieces, he saw an opportunity to share his backlog of digital work with the right audience.Efdot paints a vivid picture of today's Web3 art scene, particularly in New York City where hundreds of artists are forming genuine communities around digital creation. "Before Web3, I didn't fit into the New York art scene," he explains. "Now there's real support and infrastructure being built." Looking forward, he envisions more institutional recognition through museum exhibitions, pointing to Refik Anadol's MoMA installation as a turning point for public perception of digital art.What truly sets Efdot's work apart is his approach to physical editions. Rather than simple reproductions, his screen prints create unique interpretations through layered inks that produce sculptural depth and unexpected color interactions. He treats these physical pieces as a premium tier distinct from digital editions, shipping them with certificates of authenticity.The conversation takes a personal turn as Efdot shares his mantra – "let go" – and his perfect cadence for releasing work: something substantial every 6-8 months, with smaller experiments every 1-2 months. His advice for artists entering the space resonates deeply: find communities you're passionate about and don't try to be everywhere at once.Don't miss Efdot's upcoming exhibition at the Canal Street show as part of the Subjective Art Fair, and watch for his two new collections launching soon. Follow his journey as he continues to bridge physical and digital art worlds with thoughtful creation and community-building.https://x.com/EfdotStudioSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when life's darkest moments lead to unexpected creative awakening? In this engaging conversation with Juicy Julio (JJ), we explore how a simple family trip to Morocco planted the seeds for a passionate journey into photography that would later become his salvation during the isolation of COVID lockdowns.JJ shares the deeply personal story of how photography emerged as his emotional lifeline after losing family members during the pandemic. Unable to attend funerals or say proper goodbyes, he discovered that his camera became the channel through which he could transform grief and negativity into creative expression. This accidental photographer, who is also a chemical engineer by profession, draws fascinating parallels between his scientific work and his artistic pursuits.The conversation takes us through JJ's varied experiences - from flipping burgers at a local restaurant (mainly for the free food!) to his current work in chemistry. His thoughtful approach to Web3 reveals a commitment to security (maintaining two separate hardware wallets) and community building that extends to his creative practice. Despite being relatively new to the NFT space, JJ offers valuable insights for artists entering the ecosystem: take time to understand the technology, build genuine connections beyond simple transactions, and remember the humans behind the profile pictures.What makes this episode special is the vulnerability and authenticity JJ brings to the table. His father's advice - "don't make emotional decisions" - has shaped his approach to both art and investment. Looking ahead, JJ shares his plans for giving back to supporters through special drops and a carefully curated standalone collection, embodying the community-first ethos that makes Web3 a unique space for creators.Whether you're an aspiring photographer, NFT enthusiast, or simply someone looking for inspiration on turning personal challenges into creative opportunities, JJ's journey offers valuable lessons on patience, intentionality, and finding light in unexpected places. Subscribe now and follow along as we continue to spotlight the stories of creators redefining their creative paths through Web3.https://x.com/Julio_tnimSupport the show

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what happens when legal expertise meets digital art collecting? Artie Handz, head of marketing at Verse and founder of Artie Gallery, takes us on a journey through his fascinating transition from courtroom to crypto art.The spark ignited during Christmas 2020 when an article about NBA Top Shot landed in Artie's inbox. Having previously written about asset digitization in his MBA program years earlier, he felt an immediate connection to the concept. "I was all in," Artie explains, describing his transition from childhood sports card collector to owning thousands of NFTs, including prestigious pieces like his CryptoPunk purchased just before the 2021 price surge.What makes Web3 special for Artie is the elimination of traditional barriers between artists and collectors. Unlike the walled-off gallery system, digital art enables direct connections with creators worldwide. "You get to see it being built, made, painted, created, coded," he shares. "You're like a proud parent sometimes when it releases." This democratization represents a fundamental shift in how art is experienced and valued.Looking toward the future, Artie predicts we'll eventually stop using qualifiers like "digital art" or "AI art" – everything will simply be "art" again. He anticipates innovation from unexpected sources, perhaps from "some 17-year-old kid" who will introduce something revolutionary that changes the entire landscape. However, challenges remain, including questions about mass adoption, market volatility, and the long-term accessibility of blockchain-based art.Beyond his digital pursuits, Artie revealed surprising personal dimensions – he's both a private pilot and a fifth-generation cattle rancher with a 37,000-acre family ranch in Wyoming. Now focused on his role at Verse and his personal gallery, he's preparing to launch "The Book of Hope," a basketball-themed collection that bridges his love of sports with meaningful artistic expression.Follow Artie's journey as he continues breaking new ground in the evolving world of digital art collecting and curation. Whether you're a seasoned collector or crypto-curious, his insights offer valuable perspective on navigating this rapidly changing creative frontier.https://x.com/punk7635Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a physician's analytical mind meets the boundless creativity of photography? Tara Workman, a nature photographer from Barbados now living in the Pacific Northwest, joins us to share her extraordinary journey through art, medicine, and the world of NFTs.Tara's path to becoming a celebrated photographer began with a simple challenge from her husband to learn how to properly use her camera before buying a new one. That small nudge ignited a passion that would transform her creative life. Despite her success, Tara describes herself as naturally introverted—more like a watchful cougar than her husband's labrador-like enthusiasm—preferring to observe carefully before engaging.The conversation reveals Tara's initial skepticism toward NFTs during the frenzied market of 2021. She candidly shares how the pressure to constantly promote herself clashed with her authentic nature, leading to a brief hiatus from the space. Upon returning in 2022, she committed to approaching her art with more authenticity, finding her rhythm in the community while staying true to her unique vision.Most compelling is Tara's insight into how the creative process evolves. When facing a creative block, she stepped completely outside her comfort zone by experimenting with acrylic painting. Though initially disappointed with the results, she discovered unexpected beauty by photographing microscopic sections of these "failed" paintings with her macro lens. This serendipitous process birthed "The Art of Letting Go," her new series that has resonated deeply with collectors even in the current market.Throughout our conversation, Tara offers wisdom for fellow artists: remember why you create, resist the temptation to follow trends, and recognize when external validation begins to influence your creative decisions. Her journey reminds us that the most meaningful art often emerges when we embrace uncertainty and remain open to unexpected possibilities.Join us for this thought-provoking conversation about finding your authentic voice in a noisy world. Whether you're an artist, collector, or simply curious about the creative process, Tara's insights will inspire you to see beauty in unexpected places.Support the show