Two years ago, in the lively atmosphere of Tallinn’s Banana Conf — a quirky NFT conference that drew crypto enthusiasts from across the globe — I had an unforgettable encounter with Ben Armstrong, better known as BitBoy Crypto. This wasn’t the main stage chaos of NFT pitches and digital banana auctions, but a quieter side-event meet-up where I saw a different side of the crypto influencer: kind, approachable, and surprisingly down-to-earth. Little did I know, this moment came just months before his life would spiral into public scandals.
The Banana Conf in 2023 was a whirlwind of NFT hype, with attendees buzzing about blockchain art and collectibles. Held in Tallinn, Estonia, it was equal parts educational and eccentric, with booths showcasing everything from pixelated fruit to million-dollar digital apes. I was there looking for connections, investment opportunities, and trying to learn more about NFTs (I’m not too much into them, as I mostly invest in cryptocurrencies and utility tokens). So there I was soaking in the scene and trying to understand the NFT craze. The real highlight, though, was a low-key side-event: a small meet-up organized for the subscribers of BitBoy's YouTube channel to meet the man, the myth, the legend himself.
Meeting BitBoy: A Genuine Connection
The side-event was held in a cozy Tallinn café, a stark contrast to the conference’s neon-lit frenzy. I was nervous as I walked in — BitBoy was a big name, after all, with his YouTube channel pumping out daily crypto content to millions. I expected a larger-than-life figure, maybe a bit untouchable. Instead, I met Ben, a guy who greeted everyone with a warm smile and a firm handshake.
He spent the next hour mingling with us, cracking jokes, and even sharing stories about his family and his early days in the crypto space. He asked about my experience with crypto, listened intently, and even congratulated me on my upcoming wedding (it was to be held just weeks later). It was the kind of moment that made you feel seen, like the crypto world wasn’t just for the big players.
A Bittersweet Reflection
Looking back, that meet-up feels bittersweet. Just months later, in late 2023, Ben’s life took a turbulent turn. News broke of his separation from his wife, followed by reports of losing his business, his iconic Lambo, and even his YouTube channel amid a storm of controversies. The BitBoy I met — kind, open, and grounded — seemed so far from the headlines that would soon engulf him. It’s a reminder that behind the online personas, these are real people navigating real struggles.
Why It Sticks With Me
That evening in Tallinn showed me a side of crypto culture that’s easy to miss amid the hype: the human side. Ben wasn’t just BitBoy Crypto that night; he was a guy who took time to connect with fans, share knowledge, and make a shy introvert like me feel welcome. The Banana Conf may have been a wild ride, but that meet-up was a quiet moment of authenticity in a world often driven by flash.
Have you ever met a crypto figure who surprised you with their kindness? Share your story below!
See y'all tomorrow! 😉
