Thomas Pacchia

Natalie Brunell, a bitcoin educator and journalist, joins Marty Bent, founder of TFTC, and Thomas Pacchia, creator of a bitcoin-themed bar in NYC, for an engaging discussion recorded at Bitcoin Investor Week. They delve into their personal journeys into bitcoin and the balance between adoption and maintaining its core ethos. Topics include Bitcoin's dual identity as currency and asset, its cultural significance, and its potential to impact diverse communities. The conversation also touches on bitcoin's role in a free market and shares thoughts on the broader crypto landscape.

Thomas Pacchia, co-founder of Pubkey, dives into the evolving culture of Bitcoin, emphasizing the vital principles of privacy, self-sovereignty, and freedom. He warns against the overshadowing 'number-go-up' mentality that distracts from Bitcoin's original ethos. The conversation also highlights the mounting influence of institutions and ETFs on Bitcoin, as well as the challenges posed by regulatory frameworks like the Patriot Act that threaten financial privacy. Pacchia shares insights on Pubkey's expansion and community-building efforts in Washington, D.C.

Thomas, the owner of PubKey, discusses the inspiration behind creating a local Bitcoin bar and the importance of community in the Bitcoin space. He explains that the bar provides a space for Bitcoiners to gather and build a sense of community through weekly Bitcoin programming events. Thomas also shares his thoughts on the exodus of Bitcoiners from New York City and the challenges faced by hospitality businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.