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Greetings, I am Jenna Montgomery, and perhaps you’re familiar with some of my news articles published here previously, or have spotted me on the Bitcoin Magazine TikTok. However, today, I aim to offer you a unique perspective on the Bitcoin 2025 Conference in Las Vegas from my viewpoint as an intern, having been brought on board only a month prior to the event, with minimal familiarity regarding Bitcoin and no previous experience at such gatherings.
This piece is penned to provide an authentic, unfiltered account of my journey throughout the three-day event, and to express why I firmly believe you should certainly participate in the next Bitcoin conference. I want you all to understand what unfolds, what to anticipate, and to acknowledge how transformative I perceive this event truly is. Bitcoin 2025 left a profound mark on me and my existence, and it feels essential to articulate why, so perhaps your life can be influenced as well.
Upon landing, I tossed my suitcase into my hotel room and set off to explore the convention center as final touches were being applied around the venue. I distinctly recall being struck by the vastness, beauty, and excitement of the expo hall—where I would soon encounter numerous new individuals, forge friendships, and shake hands with those I admired and respected.
I will always remember my initial entry into the main conference area, The Nakamoto Stage. Observing that enormous space laid out with a symphony and endless rows of chairs, poised to be filled with thousands of ardent Bitcoin enthusiasts, truly emphasized to me that Bitcoin 2025 was not merely a conference; it felt like something far grander. I recognized it as a genuine community and a hub of infinite possibilities.
The conference essentially consisted of three segments: Industry Day, General Admission Day 1, and General Admission Day 2. Industry Day primarily targeted professionals, investors, founders, and others involved in Bitcoin enterprises. The general admission days, however, were more suited for the casual Bitcoiner, and during those days, I genuinely felt the exuberance radiating around the convention center.
Entering the expo hall early on Industry Day, I was astounded by all the vendors and companies arranging their tables, booths, stages, and even a rock climbing wall (thank you CleanSpark). It appeared as if the expo hall stretched for miles, showcasing a lengthy orange carpet that intricately wound through the venue, leading visitors to each booth.
I vividly recall gazing up at the ceiling and spotting a massive UFO in the center of the expo hall, with two Bitcoin-themed Cybertrucks positioned alongside it, and numerous other fascinating booths, including one featuring a talking robot.
As I trailed the long orange carpet throughout the venue, I glanced back and noticed a substantial inflatable Bitcoin Puppet in the art exhibit, showcasing various stunning Bitcoin artwork. Some of these pieces were valued at over one bitcoin—which totally fascinated me, considering that’s above $100,000. Every significant revolution is accompanied by exceptional art, and witnessing all the talented artists immerse themselves into their creations reinforced my belief that Bitcoin represents the future.
Now, it was time to dive into my responsibilities at a spot where I would spend most of my time during the following days. My colleagues and I were stationed directly in front of the Bitcoin Magazine news desk adjacent to the AV (audio-visual) team, providing me with an ideal view of the entire scene. Here, I dedicated my time to transcribing news articles for Bitcoin Magazine based on the speeches, keynotes, and various panels taking place on the Nakamoto stage, in addition to filming TikToks around the expo hall alongside attendees.
Being in front of the news desk became one of my favorite aspects of the conference. Every individual who spoke there live exuded an electrifying personality that captivated my attention, particularly one of the hosts, Pete Rizzo. After each presentation on the Nakamoto Stage concluded, the live stream would transition to the news desk where they would analyze the events, offering viewers expert insights. This made for an incredibly enjoyable experience to witness live and engage in the production process firsthand.
The presentations on Industry Day commenced with an excellent showcase by Dan Edwards from Steak ‘n Shake, who has recently made his chain the first major fast-food establishment in the USA to start accepting Bitcoin Lightning payments. Thus, I was genuinely eager to hear what Edwards had to say and to explore the marvelous Steak ‘n Shake booth, which also showcased an ensemble of lively, dancing cows.
During his presentation, Edwards stated, “Bitcoin transacts faster than credit cards, and when customers opt to pay in Bitcoin, we save 50% in processing fees.” Just take a moment to reflect on that—saving a whole 50% on every transaction? This revelation truly opened my eyes to the advantages of accepting Bitcoin as a form of payment and what it could mean for merchants who embrace it.
Given everything I absorbed from that talk, I believe Steak ‘n Shake may set off a new wave of other major companies accepting Bitcoin. If they acknowledge the benefits of Bitcoin, it’s merely a question of time before other franchises join in as well.
Another significant moment from this day was hearing Senator Cynthia Lummis affirm that President Donald Trump endorses her Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act. Numerous remarks were made during the conference that I will elaborate on later, indicating that the United States is supportive of Bitcoin and we aim to be the global leader in it. Senator Marsha Blackburn also weighed in, asserting, “Many of our allies observe our actions. If we take the lead, others will follow. This is crucial for our economic future.”
At this juncture of the day, I detached to partake in the Women of Bitcoin Brunch. As a female in the sector, I truly appreciated the chance to join this gathering and urge any woman in the field to participate in future events, as it was the highlight of the conference for me personally. I encountered many incredible individuals and was embraced warmly. So if you’re hesitant about attending future events or don’t have a companion to join you, don’t be! I entered the brunch, and it felt as though all these people I hadn’t met were anticipating my arrival and were delighted I was present.
During the brunch, I had the pleasure of mingling and conversing with numerous delightful women in a stunning ballroom adorned with orange and pink feathers and balloons everywhere, which suited my taste perfectly. Then we were all seated as showgirls entered and performed, and we all engaged, laughed, and enjoyed ourselves immensely.
Lyn Ulbricht, Calli Bailey, Natalie Brunell, and Michaela Navarro, a 14-year-old Bitcoin advocate, expressed her views on the influence of Bitcoin.
Lyn Ulbricht, the mother of Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht, launched her new nonprofit “Mothers Against Cruel Sentencing” and delivered an extraordinary speech about her journey and her cause. “Several thousand individuals, many of whom are nonviolent like Ross, are enduring excessive sentences,” she remarked. “We are advocating for families.” Her words evoked a strong emotional reaction, and the Women of Bitcoin Brunch emerged as one of the most impactful side events of the day.
Calli Bailey, co-founder of BTC Inc., the parent organization of Bitcoin Magazine, reflected on all the progress she has witnessed at the company over the years and the significance of the community to her. The brunch genuinely stirred my emotions—but in a wonderful way. Bailey, in particular, has a way with her words that always brings me to tears. I can sense that her son, David Bailey, and Bitcoin are her entire world, and every word she utters truly comes from the heart. The energy in the room was incredibly uplifting. Surrounded by many strong women who undeniably possessed considerable knowledge about Bitcoin, I felt inspired as I left the brunch, feeling at home.
As Industry Day progressed, I observed and contemplated everything I had absorbed thus far. Yet, this was merely the outset.
Next, Donald Trump Jr. took the stage alongside Chris Pavloski, the CEO of Rumble, and disclosed that Trump Media Group (TMTG) and Truth Social are supporting Bitcoin with a $2.5 billion reserve. Trump Jr. elaborated, “We’re entirely committed to Bitcoin. This isn’t just a trend. This is essential for the future.” Chris Pavlovski concurred, asserting, “The floodgates are opening. Bitcoin is no longer just an idea—it’s a strategy.”
Hearing such distinguished individuals with abundant experience fortified my belief in Bitcoin, for if influential figures like Donald Trump Jr. are investing this level of financial resources, time, and effort into Bitcoin, then perhaps I and others should regard this with the seriousness it deserves.
Bo Hines, White House Executive Director, supported this viewpoint while speaking on the Nakamoto stage, stating, “We are well on our path to becoming the Bitcoin superpower of the globe. This transcends partisanship. It’s a revolution in our financial landscape.” He concluded his speech emphatically by declaring, “Bitcoin is truly the golden standard. We want as much of it as we can possibly obtain.”
Concluding Industry Day on that note marked an outstanding initiation to the conference and established a solid groundwork for the impending general admission days. I cannot express this strongly enough: when you have officials from the White House taking the time from their already hectic schedules to attend this event and emphasize the significance of Bitcoin, considering their vast knowledge, I feel that others should heed their message.
As Industry Day concluded, I was prepared to relax and recharge for the first day of general admission scheduled for the following morning. Because the early riser catches the worm—and the worm on General Admission Day One was none other than JD Vance.
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On that Wednesday morning, I awoke at 4:00am and made my way from my hotel room to the expo hall, already spotting the Secret Service patrolling the venue as attendees began to gather in line to enter. That morning, I assisted as a volunteer at registration, guiding individuals to their respective locations, ensuring everything proceeded as effortlessly as possible for the over 35,000 arriving attendees. This was also a personal highlight as it was fascinating to witness the diverse array of individuals from various backgrounds coming together for this Bitcoin conference.
The atmosphere was electric all around, as everyone recognized that the Vice President was present. As the time approached for Vance to step onto the Nakamoto stage, I eagerly settled in front of the live news desk, prepared to document everything Vance articulated for a news report.
Then JD Vance took the stage and the audience erupted from the Nakamoto stage.
“It’s fantastic to be here with Bitcoin valued at $108k and to be Vice President of the United States,” he proclaimed. “This isn’t merely a conference of individuals. This is a movement.”
Vance emphasized that Bitcoin is integral to the future of the United States, asserting he is the first Vice President to possess Bitcoin. He continued, “We’re done with uncertainty. We’re here to establish a regulatory framework that allows Bitcoin to flourish.”
He clarified that Bitcoin resides in the hands of the American populace and that we warrant recognition and backing from our government, free from anyone attempting to undermine us. His speech was powerful, asserting that we possess the capacity to transform the world we inhabit and dictate our approach to Bitcoin.
After Vance spoke, the energy in the expo hall and Nakamoto Stage—it was truly beyond description. There were people everywhere, lively music, DJs, refreshments and food being served, ample laughter, astonishing exhibits, and a variety of individuals.
This day was also record-breaking for Bitcoin, as on General Admission Day One, there was a bid to surpass the Guinness World Record for the highest number of Bitcoin & payments within one day. The Bitcoin Magazine store truck was present, selling a plethora of merchandise, allowing payment via Bitcoin through the Lightning Network. All completed transactions contributed to the record attempt!
Moreover, the events at the Nakamoto Stage were nothing less than astounding. Ryan Cohen, the CEO of GameStop, announced a significant treasury strategy, revealing, “We currently possess 4,710 Bitcoin,” as he clarified the company’s rationale for acquiring BTC as a reserve asset.
He further stated that GameStop follows the GameStop strategy—not anyone else’s—confirming that GameStop utilizes Bitcoin as a genuine asset for its own interests, completely overlooking any societal expectations.
Next, Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City, revealed his intention to create a BitBond, accept Bitcoin payments for taxes, and utilize blockchain technology for birth certificate verifications. This realization was incredibly mind-blowing for me, as it marks a significant stride toward Bitcoin adoption—and I’m genuinely supportive of it.
Eric Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Mike Ho, and Matt Prusak followed up with comments. “Everyone desires Bitcoin. Everyone is purchasing Bitcoin,” Eric stated. Prusak added, “We’re stacking sats like mad.”
As the day drew to a close, it became evident that we were nearing the goal of breaking the Guinness World Record—and at that moment, I felt confident we would succeed.
Then, I recall glancing up at the screen and seeing that the record had indeed been shattered. More than 4,160 Bitcoin payments processed within just 8 hours, making a significant impact and highlighting Bitcoin’s role as money—and how Bitcoin can function as currency.
I took part in this world record attempt myself and had a fantastic time using Bitcoin for payments. It was incredibly thrilling to register a count on the board and contribute to setting an official world record.
Throughout this period, I was also moving around conducting TikTok interviews for Bitcoin Magazine.
Engaging with participants to inquire about their price forecasts amidst the expo hall’s vibrant lights, entertaining props, and other fascinating items provided me a unique platform to generate enjoyable content. With speakers addressing audiences from various stages throughout the locale, lively music echoing, forging new friendships, and darting about to film TikTok interviews—this gathering was precisely what I envisioned. I recognized I was in the perfect setting. In that moment, I felt overwhelmingly fulfilled. It just felt right.
As I wrapped up filming, I hurried back to the news desk to compose yet another article about someone who transformed my perspective on finance and Bitcoin at large: Saifedean Ammous. Prior to heading to Las Vegas, I had read his book, The Bitcoin Standard, which left a profound impact on me. I was eager to hear his insights due to how extensively I had engaged with his written work.
What left a significant impression on me was his prediction that 1 USDT could soon trade above $1 USD as Bitcoin-backed reserves surpass those of the dollar. This notion reevaluated Bitcoin not merely as a safeguard but as the nucleus of a novel financial system. Ammous’s ultimate forecast indicated that the era of the USD is drawing to a close, and Tether will eventually be redeemable straight in BTC. He concluded almost as if issuing a challenge: to dream bigger, and do it sooner.
The day finally wrapped up, and the Guinness World Record was achieved. I had absorbed an immense amount of new information—I felt like a transformed individual. I departed the conference that day incredibly prepared for what lay ahead, and felt immensely grateful. More than ever.
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General Admission Day 2 also featured an impressive lineup. By this juncture in the conference, I had a couple of days behind me (I was clearly becoming an expert). That morning, I entered the conference filled with anticipation and excitement for all the experiences that awaited me. The event was lively right as the doors opened, and I was eager to jump in.
That morning, Hester Peirce, SEC Commissioner, initiated the conference with the forthrightness we all required. “We cannot overlook it,” she expressed, speaking about regulations concerning digital assets. “Regulatory ambiguity allows bad entities to evade scrutiny and drives good entities away. This must conclude.”
Discussing memecoins, she mentioned, “If you’re hoping to buy a memecoin and become a billionaire—caution advised. Be prudent.” However, regarding Bitcoin? “Individuals merit the opportunity to transfer value on their own conditions,” she articulated. “This needs to be safeguarded.”
Paolo Ardoino’s presentation widened my eyes as he, the CEO of Tether, revealed that Tether possesses over 100,000 Bitcoin. Ardoino stated it’s “extremely plausible” that Tether could evolve into the premier Bitcoin miner globally by year-end—even surpassing all the public mining behemoths.
He even toyed with the notion that one day, an AI agent with a non-custodial wallet holding Bitcoin could operate on your behalf, reinforcing my earlier point that Bitcoin genuinely represents the future—and there’s so much happening beneath the surface that is yet to unfold.
Later, Lyn Alden offered a talk concerning the U.S. economy and how the brakes had been completely dismantled. She substantiated her claims with solid data, illustrating that the fiscal deficit has soared beyond 7% of GDP, even while unemployment remains low.
Her analysis showed that public debt eclipsed private sector debt post-2008, marking the moment the government ceased even feigning the ability to rein things in.
When she stated, “Bitcoin reflects this system—and serves as its finest defense,” I resonated with that. It underscored my reasons for being present, why I care, and why choosing Bitcoin feels like opting out of a flawed system.
By this point in the afternoon, I sensed a surge in momentum. Sitting behind the news desk, hearing Lyn Alden’s recap, the audience at the main stage began to swell.
Jack Mallers, CEO of Strike and Twenty One Capital, soon took the stage to deliver his keynote, asserting that he believed 1913 was the last good moment to purchase eggs using dollars. Then he unveiled significant news: Strike is launching a Bitcoin-backed loan framework with interest rates ranging from 9% to 13%. That’s monumental—especially considering how absurd it is that banks charge 20% on loans secured by Bitcoin.
The way he articulated it, equating Bitcoin’s volatility to Tesla and Apple, made everything click for me. What other asset could possibly surpass Bitcoin?
He concluded his presentation by saying, “Life is brief. Embark on the journey. Yet with Bitcoin, you just get to experience a superior one.” That’s the type of perspective shift I sought at Bitcoin 2025.
At this juncture, the Nakamoto
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The stage area was packed with individuals, spilling into the expo hall. I was aware of the time. My excitement began to build.
The one and only, Michael Saylor, CEO of Strategy, was about to step onto the stage. This was my most-anticipated presentation of the entire conference. Michael Saylor has an exceptional ability to convey his message in a manner that makes Bitcoin comprehensible for many, including me; his enthusiasm radiates from one person to another.
I don’t know about you, but listening to Michael Saylor delve into his belief in humanity and how Bitcoin can empower us to make improved decisions in life makes me realize that not everything is as perplexing as it appears—and I have supporters beside me.
Michael Saylor shared his 21 Ways to Wealth, articulating it in straightforward terms. The moment Saylor took the stage, the audience erupted in excitement. He beamed as he announced:
“This talk is for you. I’ve roamed the globe, informing nations, institutional investors, and even the ethereal spirits of our descendants about the necessity of Bitcoin. This is for every individual, every family, every small enterprise. It’s for everyone.”
As a student striving to reach my utmost potential, this address held great significance for me. Sometimes wealth transcends monetary value; you need the support and affection of your family, as even a small token of support can mean everything.
His transparency and directness throughout the talk makes a compelling argument for Bitcoin, which I believe resonates with a multitude—including myself.
In his tenth point, he warned, “Just because you can do something doesn’t imply that you should.” He added, “If you invest in Bitcoin, there’s a 90% likelihood of success over five years. Don’t confuse desire with achievement. Develop a strategy—and adhere to it.”
The audience grew louder when the concluding speaker of Bitcoin 2025, Ross Ulbricht, was about to take the platform.
Ross Ulbricht’s speech was poignant, impactful, and honestly sent chills down my spine. Listening to him speak after spending over ten years in confinement was a stark reminder of what this movement signifies.
When he declared, “We are all on equal standing with Bitcoin.” Bitcoin disregards your identity, location, or past experiences—it offers everyone the same opportunity for autonomy.
What resonated most with me was Ross discussing the support he received while imprisoned. “When I was muted, you raised your voices,” he remarked, reminding me that Bitcoin is not solely about figures and graphs—it’s about individuals supporting one another.
His plea to remain united, even amidst disagreements, felt more critical than ever in a world that can seem fractured. “Those opposing decentralization and freedom thrive on our division,” he noted.
Ross’ narrative illustrates the stakes involved, highlighting why we advocate for a system that cannot be silenced or controlled. Bitcoin signifies freedom. Ross concluded the conference with a sense of love and resilience. His address was deeply moving, and I felt truly privileged to be present.
Shortly after, everyone began to exit the convention center, and all the stalls were being dismantled. Honestly, I couldn’t resist standing by and observing. All the elements that brought me immense joy, all the individuals who made this event a reality, were taking it apart.
I witnessed the Cybertrucks, decorations, and displays vanishing as teams engaged in their tasks. In that moment, I realized I was sold. Bitcoin 2025 captivated me, and there was no turning back.
As I stood there, I also experienced a feeling of calm. A sense of fulfillment. I had fulfilled all the objectives I wished to achieve. I composed my news articles, recorded some entertaining TikToks, and mingled to my satisfaction. I felt, well, content.
So, the following day, I departed Vegas. And I truly didn’t want to. I felt as though I had entered an alternate reality, one that was unstoppable. As I sat on the plane, I thought to myself, “I must return,” and that’s precisely what I intend to do. At the Bitcoin conference, you will encounter authentic individuals, who care for you, and for the future of the world. You’ll enjoy yourself, dance, laugh, and even exchange farewell hugs while saying, “Same time next year?”
If you are a student or intern like I am, regardless of age, status, or wealth, make it your objective to attend The Bitcoin Conference. I assure you, you won’t regret it. Whether you’re knowledgeable about Bitcoin or not, it’s irrelevant. That’s what the conference is intended for—to educate you, and to provide you with a glimpse.
You will discover your community, and you will uncover the truth. The truth that Bitcoin is currency, and Bitcoin is the future. You’ll awaken, and realize the future is imminent—and Bitcoin is part of it.
Come join us for Bitcoin 2026 and immerse yourself in the event firsthand.
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