#HCPP17 - Interview with Ryan Taylor (YouTube Livestreamer) & Thomas Hunt

## Podcast Episode #HCPP17: Interview with Ryan Taylor & Thomas Hunt - Summary

1. Narrative Summary:

This episode of the Hacker Congress Podcast features an in-depth interview with Ryan Taylor, a dedicated live streamer known for his coverage of Bitcoin meetups and decentralized technology events. The conversation begins with a look back at the evolution of Ryan's live streaming setup, from rudimentary SD card recordings to a more sophisticated system involving a Canon camera, video encoder, and a constant battle for reliable internet. Ryan’s passion for documenting these events, often at his own expense, is evident, as he details the financial investment and technical challenges involved. He emphasizes his commitment to covering events centered around open-source technology, decentralization, and disruptive innovation, often prioritizing local businesses over ICO sponsorships. The interview also touches on Ryan’s nomadic lifestyle, his desire to build a website to help fund his equipment, and his involvement with projects like Zcash and Ethereum, alongside a spotlight on Crypto Htw Wallets, a sponsor of the Hacker Congress event. Throughout the discussion, Ryan’s unique personality and quirky sense of humor shine through, making for an engaging and insightful conversation about the intersection of cryptocurrency, technology, and community.

2. Main Topics Discussed:

• Live Streaming Evolution: Tracing the progression of live streaming technology and the challenges faced in early attempts.
• Technical Setup & Logistics: Detailing Ryan’s equipment (Canon Vixia G20, Video Encoder) and the ongoing maintenance and upgrades required.
• Nomadic Lifestyle & Travel: Discussing the need for portable equipment and experiences traveling with livestreaming gear.
• Audience Feedback & Criticism: Addressing criticism regarding livestream quality and the difficulties of maintaining good audio in various environments.
• Open Source & Decentralization: Focusing on events centered around open-source technology and decentralized principles.
• Funding & Website Development: Ryan’s desire to build a website and solicit funding for equipment through an Amazon wishlist.
• Sponsorship & Local Business Support: Prioritizing local sponsors like Crypto Htw Wallets over ICOs.
• Crypto Htw Wallets: A detailed discussion of their leather wallet cases for devices like Trezor and Ledger Blue, including reseller opportunities.
• Free Ross Initiative: Promoting the initiative to support Ross Ulbricht and highlighting commemorative silver tokens.
• Upcoming Events: Announcing coverage of the Open WRT Summit in Prague.

3. Key Quotes:

• Ryan: "It's a pain. Your fingers hurt after a while." (referring to the physical demands of live streaming)
• Ryan: "I just want to come to your event. I don't want to make sure that it's our archive. I don't want to make sure it's live stream because I care about you people." (explaining his motivation for livestreaming)
• Ryan: "I have no interest in that [ICOs]." (expressing his preference for supporting local businesses)

4. People Mentioned:

• Ryan Taylor: Live streamer, web developer for Zcash, previously built Ethereum websites.
• Thomas Hunt: Podcast Host.
• Travis: Taking over live streaming duties from Ryan.
• Peter: Speaker at an event.
• Bitcoin Bell: Audience member who made an offer related to audio quality.
• Magnus: Viewer in the chat.
• Tyler: Participant (role unclear).
• Joseph: Representative of Crypto Htw Wallets.
• Kurt Vonnegut: Author of "Breakfast of Champions."
• Killgore Trout: Character in "Breakfast of Champions."
• Ross Ulbricht: Subject of the "Free Ross" initiative.

5. Bitcoin Prices:

• Not mentioned in this episode.

Additional Notes:

• Ryan's YouTube channel name: G leak a DJ why L.E.A.K. (referencing "Breakfast of Champions")
• Ryan was searched by German customs due to carrying numerous USB cables.
• Crypto Htw Wallets offers a 20% discount code (WCN) for listeners.
• The podcast was recorded live on October 8, 2017, at Hacker Congress.