Why VC Fund When You Can BTC Fund? In this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Ian and Mandana discuss the intricacies of tech startups, funding in Silicon Valley, and the Bitcoin and Nostr ecosystem. They explore the challenges and strategies behind building their own company, nextblock, without relying on traditional VC funding. Emphasizing the importance of patience, technical leadership, and the unique dynamics of open-source projects, they delve into how Bitcoin's principles can redefine the approach to tech innovation. As they transition into the festive season, they also reflect on their personal experiences and the evolving journey of integrating Bitcoin into their daily lives. 01:19 Holiday Season and The Bitcoin Gift-Giving Strategy 06:12 The Steve Jobs Persona in Silicon Valley 08:38 Open Source Projects vs. Companies 16:04 The Value of Open Source in Bitcoin 23:16 IBM and the Open Source Revolution 25:25 Challenges with OpenSats and Funding 28:35 Venture Capital and the Tech Industry 29:47 Building NextBlock: A New Business Model 31:36 The Role of Developers in Startups 34:59 Decentralization and Bitcoin Companies 43:17 The Future of NextBlock Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe