My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Undercover Research Methodology
Why It Works
People more willing to speak candidly when they think the conversation is about something else, allows natural capture of unguarded moments.
Prerequisites
How to Execute
Approach subjects with broader, non-threatening research topic
Build rapport through multiple interactions over time
Gradually introduce real investigation questions
Capture reactions to unexpected revelations
Maintain documentation of entire process for credibility
When It Fails
When subjects become suspicious, when cover story doesn't hold up to scrutiny, when legal/ethical boundaries are crossed
Real Example
“HBO filmmaker told Bitcoin pioneers he was making general Bitcoin documentary, then surprised them with Satoshi identity questions to capture authentic reactions.”
Related Knowledge
Crypto Crime Documentary Production
Crypto space generates fascinating stories mixing technology, crime, and human drama, but lacks quality investigative media coverage that makes complex topics accessible.
Three-Stage Currency Adoption Framework
A currency must pass through three distinct stages to become truly functional: store of value, medium of exchange, and unit of account.
Launch a potentially system-threatening technology while avoiding personal targeting
Technology achieves widespread adoption while founder remains unknown and safe from retaliation by threatened institutions.
High-Profile Criminal Capture Through Minor Mistakes
Sophisticated criminals with otherwise perfect operational security are frequently caught through small, seemingly unrelated errors rather than major investigative breakthroughs.
Anonymous founders are strategically superior for system-threatening technologies
Builders of technologies that challenge power structures should prioritize anonymity over personal recognition
You can't be the guy behind it because you have too much power
Being a known founder of system-threatening technology makes you a target for institutional retaliation