The VeeFam Sessions: Recent Episodes
Rob Messer
The VeeFam Sessions hosted by Rob Messer (@mistirmesser) dives deep into the stories behind the people that have helped shape and contribute to making the Veefriends a truly special community.
The roles, origin stories, philosophies, and alpha may all be unique, but as the episodes unfold, you will find out why this special community is referred to as the VeeFam.
For ep. #057, we chat with former long-time moderator for the VeeFriends Discord and Community Lead for 'World of Women,' Kashvi. Throughout our conversation, Kashvi and I chat about her journey to web3, her memories and thoughts on the VeeFriends community, her journey into World of Women, and what it was like when her two worlds came together when she was a speaker on the community stage at Veecon 2023.Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Kashvi on X: https://x.com/kashviETHWorld of Women: https://www.worldofwomen.art/Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlosl
For ep. #056, we chat with former moderator for the VeeFriends Discord and long-time community member, Burge. Throughout our conversation, Burge and I chat about his journey into finding VeeFriends, what it was like being one of the first moderators hired, and his perspective on all of the ups and downs throughout the first three years of VeeFriends. Burge also shares a super memorable moment from the inaugural VeeCon in '22.Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Burge on X: https://x.com/BurgeUKHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlosl
For ep. #055, we chat with author, mom, and Hangout Hawk, Laura “ Laptop Laura” Petersen. Laura and I discuss her journey which weaves in and out of education and business, how she overcame her fear of public speaking and ended up on the VeeCon Community Stage in 2023, and what it’s like being a Hangout Hawk. Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Laura on X: https://twitter.com/LaptopLauraHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
For ep. #054, we chat with dietician, dad, VeeFriend, and one of the hosts of of the VeeDads podcast, Ryan Turner. Ryan and I discuss his journey into VeeFriends and his career, the significance of sharing the ups and downs of parenthood under the umbrella of the VeeFriends community, and much more. Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Ryan on X: https://twitter.com/foodisfuelNYC
VeeDads Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6cLkJZlCdNDbeXSh7RInOB?si=7ae63a1f9f614f28Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
For ep. #053, we chat with community builder, social media marketer & content creator, NFT project founder, artist, and one of the first people on the VeeFriends team, Zain Gaziani. In our episode, Zain discusses how found Gary and ultimately had a viral moment where he landed a job on the spot. We also discuss his time working for Vayner, how and why he pivoted into joining the VeeFriends team prior to launch, and why he ultimately ended up walking away. Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Zain on X: https://twitter.com/zaingazianiHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
For ep. #052, we chat with VeeFriends OG, Liza Lopez. Liza and I chat about her origins into finding Web3 & VeeFriends, how the community could be a launching point for finding deeper relationships, and how she uses her knowledge of Web3 & NFTs to help onboard Spanish speakers.Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Liza on X: https://twitter.com/LizaFLopezHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
For ep. #051, we chat with entrpreneur and @veefriendscards collector, Rahul Brahmbatt. Rahul shares about his journey through different career paths, his venture at Day One which partnered with @veefriends in 2022, and what it was like to win the first ever Compete & Collect Alpha Playtest Tournament in July 2023.Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Rahul on X: https://twitter.com/RahulBTweetsHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
In episode #050, I chat with professional dancer, tech enthusiast, and educator, Peg Moore. Throughout our conversation, Peg talks about how she began teaching technology to older adults & how she found Gary Vee & VeeFriends. She also reflects on how she found her close knit community in the early days of VeeFriends, and some special moments she shared with Gary at VeeCon '22 & the NYC Halloween Parade in October of '23. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.
Follow VeeFam Sessions:https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Peg's Website: https://www.pegmoore.com/
Peg on X: https://twitter.com/_Peg_Moore
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlosl
In episode #049 we chat with VeeFriends marketing manager and Optimistic Otter, Tyler Dowdle. Tyler, who was also on ep. #009, has a fascinating origin story of getting scammed and losing his Series 1 NFTs, before buying back in a flipping all the way up to a Gift Goat. His content and perspective he exemplified throughout that event helped him land a job in the VeeFriends ecosystem and he hasn't looked back.
On this episode, Tyler and I look back and reflect on the last two years of VeeFriends collaborations, events, and memories.
Follow VeeFam Sessions:https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Tyler's Origin Story: https://youtu.be/FtX11t7WX_8
Tyler on X: https://twitter.com/TylerDowdle
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlosl
In episode #048 we chat with educator, artist, founder, creator, and VeeFriends OG, Tim Livingston. Tim is an artist and founder of Living Bots, formerly Vector Bots, a project that collaborated with VeeFriends through their Mint Mink program. Tim and I talk about being an educator in the classroom, the VeeFriends community, what the process was like collaborating with VeeFriends, and much more.
Follow VeeFam Sessions:https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Tim's Project: https://www.livingbots.io/
Tim on X: https://twitter.com/T1MLivingston
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlosl
In episode #047 we chat with VeeFam day one OGs & power couple, Alissa & Ron Jordan. Alissa is an attorney (not yours), speaker, and ambassador for ethics while Ron is a web3 creator, podcaster, collector, and host of the VeeFriends Cards podcast, “Ron’s Roundtable.” . Ron and Alissa share their stories about finding web3 and the VeeFriends ecosystem, their stories of the community in the early days prior to mint, and how it has evolved throughout its short history. It was a pleasure talking with this dynamic duo.
Follow VeeFam Sessions:https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Ron’s Links:https://linktr.ee/RonJordan
Ron on X: https://twitter.com/TheStarsPodcast
Alissa on X: https://twitter.com/schmupergirl
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlosl
In episode #046, we chat with the artist, storyteller, and comic artist for VeeFriends, D.J. Coffman. After being drawn to creating cartoons and comics at a young age, D.J. has been living his passion for over 25 years. In January 2024, he started working for @veefriends as a comic creator where he creates daily comics for the IP. Throughout our conversation, D.J. and I talk about how much of an important outlet drawing was for him growing up, how he got the job working for VeeFriends, and what it is like helping mold the characters within the universe of VeeFriends at such an early stage, and much more.
Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions D.J. on X: https://twitter.com/djcoffmanHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
In episode #045, we chat with the lifelong collector, VeeFriends maxi, and head of Collectibles at VeeFriends, Adam Ripps. After building an impressive sports card collection at young age, Adam found his way to a Gary Vee tweet inviting those interested in the hobby to get into a sports card group chat. It wasn't before long before Adam was scouring the internet looking for top tier cards that was on Gary's wish list. Throughout our conversation, Ripps and I talk about his transition from being a fan to one of Gary's right hand men, how and when the VeeFriends Series 1 & 2 cards were planned, and much more. Adam has fingerprints all over the VeeFriends card and collectible landscape. It was real fun getting to hear the stories from his perspective.Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Ripps on X: https://twitter.com/adamrippsHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)VeeFriends Card: https://veefriends.com/cardsPodcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
In episode #044, we chat with the Executive Vice President of the Gary Vaynerchuk brand, Head of Team GaryVee, and VeeFriend, Sid Astir. Throughout our conversation, Sid and I talk about how he serendipitously got his start at Vayner Media as intern and then worked his way up to running Garys brand. We also chat about the origin of VeeFriends from behind the scenes, his perspective of VeeCon and the community, and the unprecedented 12.5 Book Sale & Book Games execution. I sincerely enjoyed chatting with Sid and I hope you enjoy our conversation.Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Sid on X: https://twitter.com/astirSIDHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
In episode #043, we chat with the founder of Women & Weapons, artist, VeeFriend, and champion of doing good, Sara Baumann. Throughout our conversation, Sara and I talk about her path as an artist, overcoming fear and anxiety to become a public speaker, and what is was like to have Gary Vee be the first buyer of her heart in the web3 landscape. I loved chatting with Sara and I hope you enjoy our conversation.Sara's Linktree: https://t.co/04Wu2SUmENFollow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions Sara on X: https://twitter.com/SaraSBaumannHost: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
In episode #042, we chat with VeeFriend, content creator, community detective, Dalton Tice. In our chat, Dalton and I talk about his origins into finding Gary Vee and the VeeFriends, his thoughts about bringing kindness to the world, and how the VeeFriends community fits the bill to do the same.
Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Dalton: https://twitter.com/TheDaltonTice
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
In episode #041 we chat with Author, Community Leader, Web3 Ambassador, and VeeFriends OG, Steve "NFTbark" Kaczynski. After leaving his corporate job and going "all in" on Web3, Steve landed a position co-hosting "Coffee with Captain," an awarding-winning daily Twitter Space and a position serving as the community lead for the Starbucks Odyssey program. Most recently, Steve co-authored a book, "The Everything Token," which demystifies NFTs and illustrates how they will transform our world. Steve and I chat about how he found Gary Vee, why the VeeFriends community is different, and what his experience was like speaking on the VeeCon community stage.
Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Steve Links: https://twitter.com/NFTbark
stevekaczynski.com
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode #040, I chat with comedian and content creator, Sean Millea. Throughout our conversation, Sean and I chat about his time working with GaryVee, why he left, life as a stand-up comedian, and about the time he pranked Beeple at Veecon in 2022. Sean is a genuinely funny and great dude. I hope you enjoy the conversation.
Recording Date: 6/23/23
Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Sean: https://twitter.com/MilleaSean
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
In episode #039, we chat with VeeFriends OG, and Co-Founder of "To The Moon Cards," Jason "IJayRob" Roberts. After its release in 2022, Jay was the first person to collect a full set of 235 Series 1 VeeFriends Zerocool cards. Jay is a loyal, generous, and active community member who is constantly educating the community on VeeFriends cards in the VeeFriends Discord and on his livestreams with To The Moon Cards.
Follow VeeFam Sessions: https://linktr.ee/veefamsessions
Jay Rob: https://twitter.com/iJayRob
To The Moon Cards
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode #038, I chat with JJ "Saugy" Saugstad, also known as "Saugy." After following Gary for years and feeling the positive impact of the flip life, Saugy stumbled into a Fanatics Live stream in October 2023. Not knowing a thing about VeeFriends, Saugy bought his first Series 2 box on Ebay on positive energy, intuition, and conviction in Gary. Roughly a month later, Saugy purchased a Series 1 box and pulled a 1/1 Bubble Gum Very, Very, Very, Very Lucky Black Cat card on a livestream in front of the community. It was the first time a spectacular card of the official VeeFriends logo was seen publicly and it sent shockwaves through the VeeFriends card community. Since then, Saugy has become an supportive pillar for many of the independent streamers within the community and a poster boy for how to the VeeFam supports each other. It was a pleasure jamming with Saugy and learning more about the 'legend of Saugy Waffles.'
Saugy's Twitter: https://twitter.com/saugyywaffles3
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode #37, I chat with the Head of Community for VeeFriends, the one and only Mr. Daniel Donayre. During our conversation, we chat about Daniel’s origin into crypto and VeeFriends, and how consuming Gary’s content brought him closer to his father. What it was like winning a GOO (GO) Gratitude Gorilla in the Discord, why he chose to apply for VeeFriends from the hospital after the birth of his first child in 2021. The California native also shares what the experience has been like leading all but 1 Hangout Hawks calls, and the special things he sees in the VeeFriends community as he sits at the top of it. Daniel spends so much time behind the scenes, it was so great to chat with him and give him a stage to share more about his story and so more of us can learn how great of a guy he is.
Daniel's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Behindthekit
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode #36, I chat with VeeFriends content creator, writer, AI enthusiast, and day one minter, Ezra Fuller. During our conversation, the BC/GG holder and I chat about how an unsuspecting co-worker jump started his journey into crypto, content creation, and the Garyverse, What it was like to achieve the ultimate goal of working for GaryVee after only a handful of years after seeing the mission, why he went all-in on VeeFriends, and what it takes to have success working under the Gary umbrella. We also jam on the state of the union of VeeFriends Instagram, why he told his high school class he was going to be rich and famous, and of course, White Claws.
Twitter: @ezrawithacamera
Bleeding Edge Newsletter:
https://bleedingedge.substack.com/p/byoc-bring-your-own-cheer
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
In episode #035, I chat with brothers, VeeFriends, and business owners, Ben & Sam Harbuck (@ibenkind & @wh1skyjak.) Throughout our conversation we chat about being homeschooled, who got who into @GaryVee, which ultimately landed them both deep in the @VeeFriends community. We also chat about why they ended up creating @VeeFriendsCards content and the unique way they handled getting scammed in early 2023.
Twitter: @iBenKind / @wh1skyjak
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode 34, I chat with commercial real estate agent, content creator, and VeeFriend, Aviva Sonenreich. Throughout the course of our deep dive, the Gift Goat holder and I chat about her content creation journey and how she reached 1 million followers on TikTok. She also shares how Gary's content changed the course of her business and life, why she was so quick to jump into VeeFriends on Day 1, and why she has so much conviction in access tokens after they’re used. The newest podcast panther also shares a really cool story of how she was able to thoughtfully provide Gary value by getting an Academy Award nominated A-list actor on Gary’s podcast. It was super awesome meeting Aviva in real life recently and getting to know her. There’s a lot of great nuggets of inspiration here. Hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did.
Links:
Twitter: @AvivaRealEstate
Aviva's Linktree: linktr.ee/avivarealestate
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode 33, I chat with one of the most recognizable people in the Veefriends community, the Brave Bison himself, Mr. Josh Courage. Josh is an OG holder of the Bison and this past year, he paved his way into becoming one of the pillars of the VeeFriends cards community by greenlighting his own Twitch stream he calls, the Courage Show. The stream which began as a place to highlight Veefriends community members and showcase all that you can do with Veefriends Cards quickly became a hub of the community. The full time dad and fitness coach and I get deep in this episode as we chat about the emotional needs of the youth and how we think VeeFriends could fill that void, why he chose the Bison, how impactful VeeFriends cards have been for the community, the VeeFit movement, and so much more.
Twitter: @JCourageNFT
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
There's a very select group of people in the VeeFriends community that are instantly recognized when you say their first name. For episode 29, I chat with one a very special person is in that group. Katie aka Teacher96 is an OG Faithful Pheasant and is likely your favorite VeeFriend's, favorite VeeFriend. This episode, recorded back in June of 2023 is a true relaxed informal conversation. Throughout the conversation, Katie shares about how she found Gary's retail arbitrage content when she was flipping after leaving her teaching career, how she became instantly hooked on VF and the community, and her thoughts on all things from the past 2.5 years. If you've had the privilege of meeting Katie, you love her, and I was so happy to be able to have her on the show to chat. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.
Links:
Twitter: @Teacher96_Katie
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode 32 , I chat with Veefriends Designer, Mikey Caloca. Mikey is responsible for many of the graphics and assets that we’ve seen at Veecon, on apparel, in social media, and most recently, the wildly popular Halloween Pin boxes. After getting into designing back in 2020, Mikey hustled working for content creators for free which helped him land a job at One37pm. In 2022, Mikey left his post at 137 to work with the Memphis Grizzlies, only to return to the Vaynerverse a few short months later to work with the team at Veefriends. In this episode, Mikey and I chat about how he serendipitiously got his job at VeeFriends, what it was like getting thrown into the team during the launch of Series 2, why he left the NBA, and what he did to make Gary want to fire him the day after Veecon 1. I had a blast chatting with Mikey for this one- he is a fantastic dude and a great storyteller. It was a privilege to talk to him and I hope you enjoy getting to know him as much as I did. Here we go.
Links:
Twitter: @MikeyCaloca
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode 31, I chat with all-time reseller & YouTube creator, Mike Rezendes, better known as Reezy Resells. Reezy started hustling and flipping from an early age to make it and then one day he came across a book called, CRUSH IT by a Gary Vaynerchuk. After initially dismissing it, Reezy not only consumed the book in a day, but executed on the books premise. Now, hundreds of videos and 470k YouTube subscribers later, Reezy is one of the most successful resellers out there and makes content for a living after simply following Gary's advice. Throughout the conversation, Reezy shares the trials and tribulations of his journey, how he strategically hacked the attention of Team Gary and ultimately landed a guest spot on Gary's podcast, his thoughts on the Veefriends community, and what its like going to Veecon has a well known influencer. Reezy is a stand up guy and is living proof that you can crush it by doing what you love and creating content around it.
Links:
Twitter: @ReezyResells
Reezy's YouTube & Other Socials
Credits:
Host:Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode 30, I bring back one of the pillars of our community and one of the hardest working Wombats behind the scenes at Veefriends, Mr. Nick Corso. This conversation was recorded back in July 2023, just as Veefriends Cards "Cardboard Summer" was really starting to heat up. During our chat, the Legendary Lemur and I discuss Veecon 2023, the card community, how he and the team handle negativity in the community, both proactively and after the fact, and he confirms the exact number of autographed Corso cards floating around. It's always awesome talking to Corso, not only because of his very unique vantage point of being so deep in the community while also being on the team, but because of his genuine kindness and humility. This was the first time someone came on for a second round, but I have a feeling there will be plenty others with him as the years go on. Thanks for listening and thank you for those who have taken the time to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review. It means so much to me. Without further ado, here's Corso. Links: Twitter: @corso52Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 28, I chat with Twitch streamer, card collector, entrepreneur, and OG Veefriend, Mr. Tom TGer. In the spring of 2023, Tom started the TGer Collector's Corner Twitch Channel for members of the Veefriends Card Community to gather for box breaks, battles, and conversation. Now only a few months into Tom hosting the party, his stream has become a pivotal part of the Veefriends Cards ecosystem & a fixture in the VF community. Throughout our conversation Tom talks about his journey to buying his own business, his Veefriends origin story, what it was like for Gary to blast out his stream and come on to razz him, and what his future plans are for the Collector's Corner. Not only does Tom have an amazing story but he is a really amazing dude and is one that I am proud to align myself with. It was a pleasure to chat with him 1-1 and I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
Links:
Twitter: @TGer_01
Twitch: twitch.tv/tgercollectorc…
Credits:
Host:Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode 27, I chat with business powerhouse, advisor, founder, community member, and mom, Seema Alexander. After spending years as a brand strategist and advisor, Seema founded her own company, Disruptive CEO in 2014 to help founders and CEOs better strategize their plans and brands using her own UNIQUE method. Seema has been a holder and active community member since Day 1. She has been a pillar of Leaders on Chain community and and was an organizer of the uber successful Veefriends Takeover team in November of 2022. In May of 2023, Seema was selected as a speaker to share her business expertise on the Veecon community stage. It was a pleasure chatting with Seema to hear her story and to talk about the future of Veefriends and Veecon from her perspective.
Links:
Twitter: @SeemaAlexander
https://www.disruptive.ceo/
Seema's Linktree
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 26, I chat with Mike Hampton & Luke Fraser, founders of Bartbridge Clothing. After meeting Gary and getting a hat into his hands at Veecon 1 in May of 2022, less than one year later they are the first Veefriends collab to stem from the community. This past March, Series 1 holders of the 6 characters featured in the exclusive hat drop were given free hats, while Series 2 holders of the same characters got the opportunity to purchase at discount. Throughout our conversation, Mike and Luke talk about the origin of their friendship and business, how they caught a break making hats for the Golden State Warriors, and how they went about planning to get Gary’s attention and securing an official Veefriends collaboration.
Links:
Twitter: @bart_bridge
bartbridge.com
VeeFriends BTS Video
VeeFriends Blog Post Announcement
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 25, I chat with one of the members of the original Veefriends Tech team, Cam Stewart. During our conversation, Cam shares the cool story of how tagging his friend Erik Zettersten in a Gary tweet started the domino effect of both of them working on the original Veefriends team, what they quoted Andy and the team to make the initial Veefriends website, Cam's biggest "oh shit" moment behind the scenes, and how Gary interacts with the team. Cam is a true legend; one of the nicest guys around. It was a pleasure speaking with him and getting to know him more. FYI This conversation was recorded back in Nov '22. The content was lost & thankfully re-discovered. Thanks for being a Patient Panda, Cam.
Links:
Twitter: @cameronstew Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions) Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 24, I chat with marketer, founder, and web3 personality, Ashley DCan. In our conversation, Ashley shares her journey into web3 and crypto, and the story of how she became the known as the "Titty Queen" of Twitter. Ashley also opens up about how her experience at Veecon has helped inspire her to rethink the content she puts out.
Links:
Twitter: @AshleyDCan
Credits:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos
For episode 23, I chat with the one and only D-Rock. Mr. David Rock has been working for Gary Vaynerchuk since 2014 and in his time he was responsible for creating and executing some of your favorite GaryVee shows and videos including, but certainly not limited to, "Monday Morning Rant," "Clouds & Dirt," "Overrated, Underrated, and of course, "Daily Vee." Over the last 9 years, "DRock" the person and "Drock" the noun have become a mainstay in content creation culture as he has paved the way with the blueprint for creators to work and grind their way to the job or business of their dreams. I am extremely grateful that the Executive Creative Director for GaryVee and Video Creator for Veefriends took some time to chat. Throughout our conversation, we chat about how persistence and serendipity helped him break through Gary's dms to ultimately land a job working directly with him, what Gary said to him on his first day that took him years to overcome, the story behind the beginning of DailyVee, what it would take for you to get hired by him right now, and of course the alpha from the Malibu trip when all of the original Veefriends were created.The only thing that trumps DRock's legendary work ethic and hustle is his status as a legendary person that is genuinely kind and selfless. I had the best time jamming with him in this session, and I hope you get as much out of it as I did.Links: Twitter: @davidrocknycCredit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 22, I chat with someone who is a former assistant to both AJ & Gary Vaynerchuk. Currently he's the Office of the CEO at VaynerMedia, co-host of the CardTalkPod, and General Manager of ONE37pm. He is the one and only Tyler Schmitt. Tyler, who entered the Vayner universe more than 9 years ago as a community manager, shares about his early days at VaynerMedia, how he woke up at 4:30am to play in a weekly pickup basketball game with Gary's inner circle which ultimately was a factor in his career trajectory. The Penn State alum also shares his perspective on what it was like being in the Malibu house for the creation of Veefriends back in 2021, the 2018 project he headed up that was "almost" Veefriends. I had a fantastic time chopping it up with Tyler. I hope you enjoy this conversation like I did.
Easter egg! Be one of the first 5 to subscribe to us on our new Youtube channel & comment with Tyler's favorite episode of DailyVee and receive a free VeeFam Sessions t-shirt: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeIUFWDntyAZ4pCY3yxEv2A
Links: Twitter: @tyschmitt5
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 21, I chat with Cypto Attorney and VeeFriends community member, Nicolle LaFosse. I met Nicolle in Miami during this past Art Basel Week and loved her passion, energy, and kindness. During our convo, Nicolle shares her journey in becoming an attorney specializing in the web3 space and how she ended up in Veefriends land. She is full of light, full of legal alpha, and someone that is well worth a follow on all of the social platforms. Without further ado, let's get to that conversation.Links: Twitter: @blackswanesqCredit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 20, I chat with the host of the daily Web3Stoop Twitter Space, Ian Tyszka. Ian and I talk about his origin story into the space, what inspired him to start the #veefriends helping #veefriends Twitter Space which has now known as the Web3Stoop, as well as many other topics. It was sincerely awesome getting to know him more throughout the session. He is one of those genuine Veefriends that the community should be proud to have. Without further ado, let's get to that conversation.Links: Twitter: @web3stoopCredit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 19, I chat with the Community Success Lead of Veefriends, Nick Corso. Having prior experience in Discord, Corso found himself as one of the earliest volunteer mods in the Veefriends ecosystem in May of 2021 and eventually worked his way up the ladder becoming one of the most beloved and recognizable household names in the Veefam. During our conversation, Corso shares how he navigates being both a member on the team as well as a community member, what the earliest days of the Veefriends discord was like, and shares why he thinks Gary Vee gifted him a Series 1 Gift Goat in May of 2021. If you listen to the end, there is also a teaser for what could be the biggest GaryVee branded show in 2023. I had the opportunity to get more facetime with Corso in Miami and getting to know him even more during this session. He is an absolute stand up guy that I encourage you all to get to know. If you enjoy this half as much as I did, please consider writing a review and sharing your thoughts. Without further ado, here's Corso.
Links: Twitter: @corso52
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 18, I chat with the President of VeeFriends, Andy Krainak. Andy who entered the Vayner universe back in 2013, where after tweeting at Gary, he ended up landing an internship at Vayner Media, and after working his way up to Brand Director for Gary, he eventually became Executive Vice President of Team GaryVee in 2021, before transitioning into his current role. The Forever Phoenix holder and I talk about what it was like being in charge of social media for a guy who built his career on social media, what it was like mapping out the VeeFriends project, how & why he ended up in his current role, and what it is that the President of VeeFriends actually does. It was a pleasure getting the time and I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did.
Links: Twitter: @krainak
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 17, I chat with NFT writer and fellow Veefriend, Alex Gomez. Alex runs a blog, CyberScrilla, where he develops hefty, yet digestible content on how to better understand the web3 and NFT space and is also writes for 137pm. Alex's in-depth and value driven written content caught my eye and it was a pleasure getting to know him more. In our convo we chat about how he took a leap of faith from his secure job in the marijuana industry to write full-time, his experience at Veecon, and his journey into this VeeFriends community. Hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did.
Links:
https://cyberscrilla.com/
Twitter: @alexwgomezz
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 16, I chat with 16-year-old Benjamin Wong. Ben, not old enough to check into his Veecon hotel is an entrepreneur, podcaster, public speaker, and humanitarian. I had a fantastic time getting to know and chatting with Ben. During our episode, the Hungry Hammerhead fan shares about his early days as entrepreneur, his unique Veecon experience which including getting a really one of a kind autograph from Beeple, and the circumstances which he would turn down a job at Veefriends, and gets exposed to names such as Carl Winslow and Joey Gladstone. Not only is Ben an awesome guy with a great sense of humor, he is a role model for everyone in the community no matter they're age
Links:
Twitter: @b3nwong
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
For episode 15, I chat with an unbelievably kind and thoughtful, Jaydev. Jay is a filmmaker, collector, and a fantastic ambassador for the Veefriends community and the web3 community at large. I had a wonderful time chatting with Jay about how he was in the hospitalized the day he minted his VF1, Veecon, the film3 movement, how he got into creating Twitter spaces, soccer, and who he likes more Woody or Buzz. Check out his Twitter Spaces, "3 Things I Learned in NFTs" this week" on Sundays at 10pm EST .
Links:
Twitter: @jaydevh20
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser/@veefamsessions)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
On VeeFam Sessions #14, I chat with father, husband, Veefriend and host of the podcast, Hiped Hour Hour, but most of all an absolute force of positivity. I’m talking about the one and only Gentle Tornado. During our conversation Gentle and I talk about the beginning stages of his web3 journey full of giving, gratitude, and positivity which fittingly starts with being introduced to GaryVee by his best friend, Doughboy 7 years ago. The journey of living by Gary’s words ultimately came full circle in April of 2022 after a viral tear-jerker video of him gifting doughboy with his first Veefriend went viral and took the Veefriends community by storm perhaps serving as a blueprint for how this community operates. Gentle also shares what it was like to have such virality within our community and what it was like to have Gary acknowledge the interaction not only on Twitter, but also in person in their face to face interaction at Veecon. Gentle also shares some other communities he is a part of, how and why he started posting daily gratitude videos everyday since the winter, and about his newest project to spread gratitude and positivity in the world, the Hiped Happy Hour podcast. It was truly an honor to have Gentle on. Dom’s energy is infectious and I know he is going to change the world. I’m happy to call him a friend and am excited for you guys to listen to the one, the only, Gentle Tornado.
Links Links: Gentle's Linktree Twitter: @livehiped
Credit: Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser) Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
On VeeFam Sessions #13, I chat with Veefriend and the host of the Veefriends Late Night Chat, Pat aka Patron the Crypto Ape.
During our conversation Pat shares his journey all the way from how he was introduced to crypto to how and why he got invested in the Veefriends community and ultimately started a daily Spaces, becoming a fixture in the community. VeeFriends Late Night Chat, a daily Twitter Spaces which he runs nightly not only to talk about anything Veefriends, but also to spread positivity and educate people on all of the ins and outs of web3 including wallet security. Pat also shares why it was so important for him to document his first Veecon experience and ultimately edit and release the 1 hour doc, Veecon: The movie. I really enjoyed my conversation with Pat and it was really great to get to know him better and get to know the man behind the microphone. It is easy to understand why the community is the way it is with ambassadors like him.
Links & Credits
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ALPHAisFREE
VEECON: The Movie Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgPhaY6H3WDuJtUOsYYlXLQ
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
On VeeFam Sessions #12, I chat with artist and Veefriend, Alyssa Stevens
During our conversation Alyssa shares her journey as an artist, her inspiration and process for creating, and what the transition has been like since quitting her corporate job and going full-time as an artist in the space. The NFT.NYC featured creator, who also designed the 1st POAP for 137pm at the inaugural Veecon, also shares what drew her to Gary, her surreal first day at Veecon, and the one missing goal that she hopes to achieve since starting out as an artist in this space . It was truly amazing for me to get to chat with and get to know Alyssa better.
Links
Alyssa's Linktree: lynkfire.com/alyssastevens
Twitter: alyssastevens_
Credit:
Host: Rob Messer (@mistirmesser)
Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
On VeeFam Sessions #11, I chat with Book Games guru and creator of the Youtube channel, All things Web3, BizzyNFT During our conversation Bizzy shares the backstory of his Veefriends journey and what inspired him to start a Youtube channel on the project in January 2022. That channel, all things web 3, has gone on to be a staple in the Veefriends community, hitting 500 subscribers in its first 7 weeks. Bizzy shares his process of curating all of Gary’s subtle and not so subtle hints and also shares quite a little bit of alpha not only from Book Games, but his take on Series 2 scenes and collaborations. Bizzy is a true pro, a first class guy that is always delivering value.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BizzyNFT23
Bizzy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9EszY3K5O_JQ0jCXKKprYQ
Credit: Podcast Intro: "VeeFam Sessions" created by @itsjustlos https://twitter.com/its_JustLos
On VeeFam Sessions #10, I chat with Isaiah, perhaps better known as web3newb aka bookgamesnewb in the Twitterverse. During our conversation Isaiah shares his crypto journey and how he ended up getting into the Veefriends universe, how joining and holding Twitter Spaces shaped his view on web3 and the Veefriends community, and what it was like when GaryVee jumped on stage in one of his spaces back in April of 2022. I had a blast talking with Isaiah. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.
Links Twitter: https://twitter.com/notagamblr TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRY2j5A6/
On VeeFam Sessions #9, I chat with social media strategist for Veefriends, Tyler Dowdle. (@tdowds)
During our conversation the Optimistic Otter holder talks about how losing two VF1’s in a 2021discord scam helped motivate him to flip from a core to a Gift Goat and how that process helped him gain deep understanding of the project and is perhaps what helped him land a prominent role on the Veefriends team.
Tyler also shares what it was like transitioning from holder to actually being on the team, his first encounter with Gary Vee after starting his job at Veefriends, and his perspective on some of the notable moments within the first year of Veefriends.
This one was super fun for me. Hope you enjoy it.
In this episode, I chat with husband-wife duo Steph and Manny who started "Veefriends News" on Instagram, a feed that brings you the latest news in the Veefriends universe. Throughout our conversation, we chat about how Gary's advice led them on the journey to start the Veefriends news Instagram page, how they got out of playing rock-paper-scissors to decide which one of them could go to Veecon, and why the You're Going to Die fly is so special to them.
Links for Steph & Manny:
Instagram: @veefriends_news Twitter: @Veefriendsnews TikTok: webthree_news
Links for the VeeFam Sessions:
Instagram: @mistirmesser
TikTok: @mistirmesser
On this special episode #7, I chat with one of the unofficial leaders of the Veefriends community, the Heart Trooper #7, the one and only Jeremy Hohn. During our episode, Jeremy shares his backstory and what crypto investments enabled him to ape into Veefriends back in May of 2021, why he started the now essential Jeremy Knows podcast, and also offers a little relationship advice. Throughout our conversation Jeremy also shares the stories of the Christie's Auction, the birth of both the VeeFamDao and the VeeDao, how his two access experiences with Gary Vee went, and how his first Veecon as a Veefriends celebrity including getting called out by Gary from the main stage.
This was an amazing conversation with an extraordinary person. Hope you enjoy and make sure to subscribe so you don't miss any coming down the pike! All of Jeremy's links including podcast and NFT. https://y.at/%E2%9C%8C%F0%9F%8F%BC%E2%9D%A4%EF%B8%8F%F0%9F%A4%A1
On episode #5 of the VeeFam Sessions, I chat with long time Gary follower, Vayniac, and Veefriend, Tim F. Tim has been following Gary since his first episode of Wine Library TV back in 2006 and was even a guest on episode #681. Throughout our conversation Tim compares and contrasts the Veefriends community today with the Vayniacs of the mid-late 2000s and talks about the importance of the Oak Monster. He also gives us context to how behind how ended up being the first community guest Wine Library TV back in 2015 as well as why he was referenced on his stage by Gary himself in the closing Veecon keynote in May 2022. Perhaps most notably, Tim speaks on his reasoning for developing and sharing his Book Games Data spreadsheets on his blog and why he wants the community to be able to access it for free. This was an amazing session with Tim. There is an easter egg hidden somewhere in this episode so if you are the first to hear it and respond, you know what to do. Enjoy!
Links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TimF
Episode #681 of Wine Library TV featuring Tim F: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBGSVia-lDY&t=468s
Book Games Stats Blog & Spreadsheets: https://bookgamesstats.blogspot.com/
In Episode #4, I chat with Michael Keen. The co-host of the NFTCatcher podcast, co-founder and creator of NFTCatcher.io, and proud owner of the Keen Kingfisher.
Throughout the course of the interview, Michael talks about how he entered into NFTs, Veefriends, and the similarities and differences between the NFT and ticket industry.
This one was super fun for me as his podcast was the first NFT podcast I listened to and helped inspire this one. Hope you enjoy it.
Links:
Twitter: @ NFTicket
NFTCatcher Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nft-catcher-podcast/id1579358032
NFTCatcher.io: https://nftcatcher.io/
For episode #3, I chat with an OG Tremendous Tiger, Morgan Loewenherz. I have taken notice of Morgan’s contagious positive energy and passion for the community for a while now and it was most definitely evident throughout our time together. During our conversation, we reminisce about the early stages of the Veefriends rollout, talking to people outside the Veefam about what makes Veefriends so special and some of the many anecdotes that make this such a special community. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Thank you for listening to the VeeFam Sessions podcast. It would truly make my day if you took 5 seconds to subscribe to the podcast and if I’m lucky, another 5 to share out the episode on Twitter so that you and the other members of the community will be able to enjoy all of the amazing stories the Veefam will have to offer for the next 55 years. Appreciate you, fam.
“The most important NFT you have is your name. I cannot be Ermine. As much as I love him, I cannot be him.” -Ricky Debler
In Episode #2, I chat with Ricky Debler. The third generation restaurant entrepreneur and the first person in the community to profit a million dollars from flipping Veefriends NFTs. During our conversation Ricky talks about the advice Gary Vaynerchuk him when he first met him back in 2015, how he was able to acquire the liquidity that enabled him to invest heavily into Veefriends 1 back in May 2021, and why he had such a deep connection to a seemingly forgotten character in the Earnest Ermine.
Throughout the course of the interview, I really appreciated how Ricky opens up to share his lessons he learned from both setting and actually achieving his ambitious goals in the space, the emotions when it was time to say goodbye to the NFTS he worked so hard to acquire, and his thoughts about what a real community is.
This one was super fun for me. Hope you enjoy it.
“Come for the money, stay for the community.” Follow @bookgamestool.eth. 50% off coupon code at bookgames.info code: MESSER