Ben and Ryan Show Episode 11

In this episode, hosts Ben Nadel and Ryan Brown interview Grant Powell, founder of Curios. Grant shares his journey in the Web3 and NFT space, detailing how Curios started as a licensable NFT platform and successfully pivoted after the NFT bubble burst. The discussion dives deep into digital ownership, blockchain challenges, and how Curios is revolutionizing digital content distribution for creators.

Key Points:

• Curios' Evolution – Originally an NFT licensing platform, Curios pivoted to focus on digital content ownership after the market downturn.

• Blockchain & ColdFusion – The role of ColdFusion in building Curios' rapid development and API-driven platform.

• NFTs Beyond Art – Real-world applications for NFTs in digital ownership, including music, books, and event ticketing.

• Decentralization – The benefits and challenges of decentralized platforms compared to centralized ones like Ticketmaster.

• AI in Collectibles – Grant’s work with collectibles.com and AI-driven identification and valuation of collectibles.

Episode Breakdown:

Curios' Origin and Pivot

• Curios started as a platform to help businesses create and manage NFTs.

• The NFT craze led to unrealistic expectations, and as the hype collapsed, Curios pivoted to a broader digital ownership platform.

• ColdFusion played a key role in the flexibility and speed of their platform’s development.

Real Use Cases for NFTs

• NFTs are more than just overpriced JPEGs—they serve as proof of ownership for digital content like eBooks, music, and videos.

• Grant highlights how digital ownership differs from physical ownership and why secondary markets for digital goods are still developing.

• Ticketing is a strong use case, especially for VIP passes and exclusive access to events.

Challenges of Web3 and Blockchain Scalability

• Many blockchains create “walled gardens” that limit interoperability.

• Curios was among the first platforms to support multiple blockchains.

• Scalability issues in blockchain transactions require additional abstraction layers to ensure speed and efficiency.

Digital Rights and Ownership Protection

• Blockchain technology ensures proof of ownership, but enforcement remains an issue.

• The right to access content is separate from hosting the content itself, allowing removal when necessary.

AI and the Future of Collectibles

• Grant discusses collectibles.com and how AI is transforming the world of collecting.

• AI can help identify, grade, and value physical collectibles like coins, comics, and trading cards.

• The future of AI-driven marketplaces and its impact on the secondary market for rare items.

The Balance Between Work, Entrepreneurship, and Life

• Grant and Ben share insights on time management and balancing multiple projects.

• The importance of structuring schedules to maintain productivity without burnout.

• Investors’ perspectives on serial entrepreneurship and the fine line between focus and diversification.