Proof of Work - An interview with Michel (Nodl)

## Proof of Work Podcast Interview with Michel (Nodl) - Summary

1. Narrative Summary:

This episode of the Proof of Work podcast features an engaging interview with Michel, the founder of Nodl, recorded at a Bitcoin conference in Malta. The conversation begins with a nostalgic look back at Michel's early computing experiences, highlighting the stark contrast between the resourcefulness required in the 1980s and the ease of access to technology today. He recounts dismissing Bitcoin in its infancy, regretting missing out on early mining opportunities. The discussion then transitions to Nodl, a full node in a box designed to simplify Bitcoin and Lightning Network adoption. Michel emphasizes the overwhelmingly positive community response to Nodl, its global reach, and the importance of broader adoption by everyday people to ensure Bitcoin’s long-term resilience. Drawing parallels to the early days of email, he encourages listeners to actively engage with Bitcoin now to prepare for its inevitable future integration into everyday life.

2. Main Topics Discussed:

• Early Computing & Programming: Michel's experiences with early computers (CPC 6128, 286 PC), programming on paper, and the value of hands-on tinkering.
• Bitcoin's Early Days: Initial skepticism towards Bitcoin, regret over not mining earlier, and the missed opportunity to leverage server farm CPU time.
• Hardware Wallet Concept: The failed attempt to create a credit card-sized hardware wallet in the early 2010s due to cost and Bitcoin's low price.
• Nodl Product Overview: Introduction of Nodl as a full node in a box with integrated Lightning Network capabilities, BTC Pay Server, and easy wallet integration.
• Community Feedback & Adoption: The exceptionally positive community response to Nodl and the importance of broader adoption by non-technical users.
• Global Supply Chain & Reach: Nodl's efforts to establish a global supply chain and shipping to diverse locations.
• Future Concerns & Learning from History: Concerns about institutional investors dominating Bitcoin and the importance of learning from the early days of email to prepare for Bitcoin's future.
• Future Development: Planned features like Electron Personal Server and Sea Lightning.

3. Key Quotes:

• "Technically the first computer I ever taught was a CPC 6128, Armstrong.”
• "For me, it was just some internet game money."
• "It's a network utility rather than like a wallet."
• "You have no one to pay right now. No one wants to pay you. But you learn how you get a wall and move a little ten bucks around. And three years from now, somebody wants to pay you for a graphic design job. And they'll only send Bitcoin."

4. People Mentioned:

• Michel (Nodl): Interviewee, Founder of Nodl (@KetoMinor on Twitter)
• Thomas Hunt: Podcast Host
• Peter Todd: Referenced for shared early computing experiences.
• Max: (Unspecified role)
• Slush: (Unspecified role)
• A remote family member: Electronics teacher who influenced Michel's early interest in technology.
• A colleague: Collaborator on the failed hardware wallet project.
• Christian Decker: Related to the popularity of Sea Lightning in Germany.

5. Bitcoin Prices Mentioned:

• $0.01 (Initial Bitcoin price)
• $200 (Bitcoin price when the hardware wallet idea was conceived)

Resources:

• Nodl: https://nodl.it/
• Nodl (Twitter): @Noodle_IT