Object Subject Form

• All In: Betting Everything on Bitcoin’s Future

  Bitcoin has dominated headlines, sparked political debates, and divided opinions. Through all the noise, one fact remains: it’s been one of the best-performing asset classes of the past decade—but for many, the real significance of this technology is still just starting to sink in. In this episode of Object Subject Form, Simon sits down with Valko, friend, fellow CryptoPunk, and newly appointed Chief of Staff at World Liberty Financial—a decentralized finance platform launched in 2024 to simplify access to digital assets and crypto-backed financial tools. Known for his unwavering conviction in blockchain technology, Valko has gone all in on crypto—an investment stance most financial advisors would call extreme. But what drives this level of conviction? And what lessons can be drawn from it as Bitcoin continues to outperform nearly every traditional asset class over the past decade? Together, they break down the fundamental reasons why Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies matter, why these technologies remain central to conversations about financial sovereignty and technological evolution, and how they may play a pivotal role in shaping the next decade of global economics. Whether listeners are crypto-curious or already deep in the space, this conversation offers perspective on why it’s no longer a question if they should pay attention. Disclaimer: This episode was recorded prior to Valko’s current role. The views expressed are his own and do not represent the views of his employer. Topics discussed are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research before making investment decisions. — Chapters 00:00 Bitcoin as the New Reserve Asset   01:10 Introduction 02:19 Why Bitcoin and Crypto Matter Now   04:19 Valko’s All In Crypto Philosophy   06:10 Bitcoin as the Future of Digital Ownership   09:24 Ethereum, NFTs, and Programmable Money   13:14 Transparency, Trustlessness, and Privacy in Crypto   16:16 Should You Stay Anonymous in the Space?   19:22 Reputation: Online vs. Real Life   22:13 Valko’s First Crypto Transactions and Early Days   25:34 CryptoPunks and the Birth of Digital Identity   31:15 Staying Informed in a Fast-Moving Space   34:36 The Political Landscape of Crypto   41:19 Is It Too Late to Get In? Advice for Newcomers   45:50 Risk Management and Building Wealth   50:10 The Rise of Meme Coins and Internet Culture   54:34 Imagining a Future of Widespread Crypto Adoption   58:30 The Impact of Crypto on Traditional Finance   1:03:10 Bitcoin, AI, and Exponential Technologies   1:05:40 CryptoPunks: Identity, Art, and Community   1:12:13 What It Means to be a voice of leadership in Crypto   1:18:01 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Valko     — Connect with Valko on X: https://x.com/valko — Specs News (On pause due to Valko’s new position at World Liberty Financial): https://www.specs.news/ — World Liberty Financial: https://www.worldlibertyfinancial.com/ — @Punk6529 TAP Thread https://x.com/punk6529/status/1701623475725533524?s=46 — CryptoPunks: https://cryptopunks.app/ — Learn more about CryptoPunks on the Brand Hub: https://hub.cryptopunks.app/ — Follow CryptoPunks on X: https://x.com/cryptopunksnfts — Connect with simon: https://zaap.bio/simonclowes

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  1:20:21
• Special Episode: Creative Leadership in a Changing World

  As creative industries continue to evolve, the ways we approach leadership, identity, mentorship, and growth are being reexamined and reimagined. How do creative leaders adapt to an increasingly complex world? What does it mean to nurture human-centered creativity while navigating rapid technological change? In this special episode of Object Subject Form, host Simon Clowes steps into the guest seat for a live dialogue hosted by Swim Creative. He joins Maria Barbirotto and Stephanie Dunaiski to explore how creative leadership is shifting, the importance of mentorship in building resilient teams, and how identity shapes creative expression in times of uncertainty. Drawing from his personal journey across design, film, and technology, Simon shares insights on leading with empathy, promoting human-centered creative processes, and navigating change without losing sight of purpose. This conversation is a reflection on the ever changing creative landscape—and how staying rooted in empathy, adaptability, and human connection is essential for supporting meaningful work. — Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariabarbirotto/ — Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-dunaiski-ab28a486/ — Swim Creative: https://swimcreative.com/ — Connect with simon: https://zaap.bio/simonclowes

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  1:25:48
• URL to IRL: The Art of Creative Connection

  What if the most meaningful creative work begins not with what we make, but with how we connect? In this episode of Object Subject Form, recorded live in Mérida, Yucatán, Simon sits down with Héctor Ayuso — founder of OFFF and Paradiso — to explore the deeper layers of what it means to gather with intention, and be fully immersed in creative expression. Héctor reflects on his journey from growing a globally recognized festival (OFFF) to creating Paradiso, a five-day immersive retreat rooted in joy, presence, and meaningful connection. He opens up about his childhood, how therapy reshaped his life and why being uncomfortable is necessary for growth.  This is a conversation about realigning with purpose. The importance of building spaces that invite vulnerability and how real-life gatherings are becoming more vital in an increasingly digital world. It’s about staying true to what matters, even through discomfort. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your work or uncertain about your path, this conversation is a reminder that creativity isn’t just about what we make — it’s about how we live, who we connect with, and the courage it takes to stay true to what matters. — Connect with Héctor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hector-ayuso/ — Connect with Héctor on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hectorayuso/ — Learn about Paradiso: https://home.paradisofest.com/ — Follow Paradiso: https://www.instagram.com/paradisofest_/ — Learn about OFFF: https://www.offf.barcelona/ — Connect with Simon: https://zaap.bio/simonclowes

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  1:07:39
• Bridging the Gap: CryptoPunks & the Convergence of Digital & Traditional Art

  How can digital art cement its place in contemporary culture? Can NFTs and blockchain technology continue to bridge the gap between artists and major institutions? As dialogue around digital art continues to evolve, questions of legitimacy, value, and long-term impact remain central to the conversation. In this episode of Object Subject Form, we examine how digital art is gaining recognition in major institutions and how emerging technologies are reshaping the art world. Currently the GM of CryptoPunks, Natalie Stone leads the iconic collection that ignited a contemporary digital art movement, with pieces in the permanent collections of institutions such as the Centre Pompidou, LACMA, and ICA Miami. She played a key role in CryptoPunks: Free to Claim, a Phaidon-published project with Zak Group that chronicles the rise of CryptoPunks and their cultural significance. Formerly at Google, she led Google I/O, crafted VR/AR experiences with artists like Childish Gambino and LCD Soundsystem, and developed an experimental new media program for artists working in AI.   With a deep understanding of both traditional and digital art ecosystems, Natalie offers a unique perspective on the evolving dynamics of curation, collection, and creative innovation. In this conversation, we discuss the challenges and opportunities facing digital artists today, the role of traditional art institutions in Web3, and how blockchain technology is redefining provenance, ownership, and artistic value. Launched by Larva Labs in 2017, CryptoPunks consists of 10,000 unique pixel-art characters that became a symbol of digital ownership and the CryptoArt movement. Stored on the Ethereum blockchain, CryptoPunks are more than just collectibles—they’ve played a pivotal role in shaping conversations around provenance, value, and the integration of blockchain technology in the art world. — Connect with Natalie on X: https://x.com/naughtaliestone — Natalie’s website: https://nataliestone.co/ — Connect with Natalie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stonenatalie/ — CryptoPunks: https://cryptopunks.app/ — Learn more about CryptoPunks on the Brand Hub: https://hub.cryptopunks.app/ — Follow CryptoPunks on X: https://x.com/cryptopunksnfts — CryptoPunks Book @ Phaidon: https://www.phaidon.com/store/fashion-and-pop-culture/cryptopunks-free-to-claim-9781838669300/ — Connect with simon: https://zaap.bio/simonclowes  

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  1:12:16
• Hybrid Workflows: The Human–AI Creative Partnership

  How do we ensure AI enhances creativity rather than diminishes it? Can designers integrate AI into their workflows without losing the essence of human-driven craft? As AI continues to reshape creative industries, designers face a critical choice—resist, or adapt and find a way to collaborate. This episode of Object Subject Form explores the evolving relationship between human creativity and machine intelligence, highlighting the role of hybrid workflows in shaping the future of design. Simon Dixon, co-founder of DixonBaxi, has spent over two decades at the intersection of creativity, design, and technology. His studio is known for its bold philosophy—“Be Brave”—a mindset that extends to adapting to emerging technologies.  Driven by the enduring power of creativity, DixonBaxi collaborates with some of the world’s most iconic brands across sports, entertainment, media, the new economy, and technology to design a better future. Their clients—Netflix, Google, Samsung, Warner Bros Discovery, AC Milan, Hulu, and more—trust them to help prepare for what’s next. In this conversation, Simon explores the Human–AI Creative Partnership—how AI can be a tool for expansion rather than replacement, the challenges of maintaining originality in an era of automation, and why adaptability is the most important skill for designers today. This episode sets the tone for Object Subject Form's second season, focusing on the technologies and ideas that will shape creative practice over the next 5 to 10 years. — Connect with Simon on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonsdixon/ — DixonBaxi Website: https://www.dixonbaxi.com/ — Connect with me: https://zaap.bio/simonclowes

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  1:11:46

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