May 18, 2021

Li Jin on The Passion Economy & Its Hidden Currency

44 minutes

In this episode, James Currier and guest Li Jin delve into the passion economy, discussing its social implications and the role of self-promotion. They explore the involvement of Gen Z, investment dynamics, and examine case studies such as Mirror and Maven. The conversation also touches on the evolution of digital transactions, challenges in the passion economy, the impact of remote work, personal branding, and the arrival of Web 3.0.

The "Passion Economy" as coined by Li Jin makes it easier for people to monetize their individuality through unique, creative work. This comes with a host of benefits, not the least of which is the emergence of new markets, a feeling of autonomy, and intrinsic satisfaction.

To work through this and more, James Currier is joined by Li Jin herself -- former investment partner at A16Z, now Founder and Managing Partner at Atelier. They discuss how NFTs are changing the economics of the Creator Economy, what happens when everyone has to be a marketer, and how they look for ways to make platform participants into platform owners.

Read the NFX Essay here - https://www.nfx.com/post/li-jin-passion-attention-economy/

(0:00) Introduction and discussion on the passion economy with guest Lee Jin

(7:19) Activism and social implications in the passion economy

(10:47) The role of self-promotion and marketing in the digital age

(13:50) Role of Gen Z and the dynamics of investment in the passion economy

(19:15) Sponsor: NFX

(20:27) Case studies: Passion economy companies Mirror and Maven

(26:02) Evolution of digital transactions and key elements in passion economy businesses

(31:50) Challenges and societal implications of the passion economy

(35:58) The influence of remote work and personal branding in the digital age

(40:01) The arrival of Web 3.0, misconceptions, and its future implications

(43:29) Conclusion: Wrapping up the conversation with Li Jin