My Journey with the PROOF Collective: Early NFT Adoption, Community Building, and Networking with Industry Leaders
Introduction
In 2021, after years in digital marketing, technology, and early-stage startups, I found myself drawn to the rapidly emerging world of blockchain, NFTs, and Web3. As an early adopter, I’ve always been passionate about discovering trends before they go mainstream—so when I heard about the launch of the PROOF Collective by Kevin Rose, I immediately recognized its potential. Joining PROOF not only significantly boosted my personal network but also validated my strategic insights when PROOF was acquired by blockchain giant Yuga Labs.
Spotting Opportunities Early: My PROOF Origin Story
PROOF Collective Founder’s NFT
Being among the very first members of PROOF Collective was not just lucky timing; it was the result of my deep belief in blockchain’s future and my commitment to getting ahead of emerging digital trends. A pivotal moment early in my PROOF journey came during Grails Season 1, where I minted the Protoglyph by Larva Labs (creators of CryptoPunks and Autoglyphs). This incredible NFT quickly became iconic within the collective. With multiple editions later selling for over $200,000 each, this experience validated my instincts for identifying high-potential digital assets well before the broader market caught on.
Turning Online Communities into IRL Relationships
Thanks to living near PROOF’s headquarters in Los Angeles, I frequently visited their offices, building direct relationships with founders and team members including Kevin Rose and Justin Mezzell (the new CEO of Digg!). Regular in-person interactions allowed me to share insights and feedback, significantly impacting product direction and user experience.
PROOF became a gateway to deeper industry engagement, providing access to exclusive events at key conferences like NFT NYC, ETH Denver, and Art Basel—experiences available only to Collective members. It was also through PROOF that I formed a close friendship with Jordan Lyall, who later created Skylab and invited me to join as a founding member. These relationships and experiences solidified my belief in bridging digital communities with real-world connections.
A PROOF Collective dinner with Kevin Rose & Justin Mezzell (I’m seated across from them in the middle)
https://x.com/akasteveyyy/status/1610850543546806275/photo/1
Networking with Influential Leaders
Joining the PROOF Collective granted me unprecedented access to influential leaders across tech, art, and blockchain. I had meaningful interactions with notable figures such as Alexis Ohanian (an investor in PROOF), Gary Vaynerchuk (GaryVee), Tim Ferriss , Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park), and renowned digital artist Beeple. These discussions expanded my understanding of blockchain innovation, entrepreneurship, and creative strategy, enriching my professional perspective.
My experience highlights how strategic networking within niche communities can dramatically accelerate personal and professional growth.
Connecting and vibing with great people at a PROOF event in Venice Beach, CA (I’m in the middle 👋)
Active Community Engagement & Credibility
Beyond networking, my active involvement helped shape PROOF’s vibrant community culture. From daily conversations on Discord and community moderation, to participation in town halls and major Web3 events, I consistently contributed value, ideas, and insights.
My profile on PROOF’s official platform (proof.xyz/u/rob), along with rare POAPs, clearly demonstrates my deep and sustained participation, documented immutably on-chain.
PROOF Collective Lounge POAP from NFT NYC ‘22
Contributing to NFT Innovation (Moonbirds, Oddities, Grails)
My contributions extended beyond community engagement into strategic discussions around product innovation. I played an active role in providing direct feedback on flagship NFT collections including Moonbirds, Oddities, and Grails. Notably, I advised on a variety of product features, helping refine utility, improve user experience, and increase long-term value.
One innovative highlight was my proposal around community-driven NFT traits and dynamic NFT utility, which contributed directly to Moonbirds’ differentiation in a crowded NFT marketplace.
I proposed the idea for a dynamic NFT background for PROOF Collective members (this was my main PFP)
From Success to Acquisition: PROOF Joins Yuga Labs
My strategic foresight was validated when Yuga Labs—one of the most significant brands in Web3—acquired PROOF. This acquisition underscored the value of our collective’s work and innovation in the Web3 space and served as a personal validation of my early insights and contributions. Being part of a collective acquired by an industry giant demonstrated my ability to recognize and capitalize on high-impact opportunities early.
It was only natural for the Bored Apes to join forces with Moonbirds.
Conclusion: Leveraging My PROOF Experience for What’s Next
My experience with the PROOF Collective sharpened my skills as a strategic thinker, community builder, and innovator in Web3. From spotting early opportunities and driving community engagement, to networking with influential thought leaders and participating in strategic innovation, my journey has solidified my reputation and proven results in the blockchain space.
If you’re looking for someone passionate about Web3 growth, community building, and innovative strategy, I’d love to connect. My door is always open for collaboration, discussions, or career opportunities in digital marketing and Web3 strategy.
About the Author
Rob Iula / @skell / robert.iula@gmail.com
With over 15 years of experience in digital strategy, community building, and blockchain innovation, Rob is a Web3 strategist who thrives on spotting emerging trends and driving growth through strategic foresight. As an early adopter and founding member of influential communities like PROOF Collective and Skylab, Rob has played a key role in shaping NFT projects, fostering dynamic Web3 communities, and connecting blockchain innovators. He is passionate about leveraging the power of decentralized technology to build thriving ecosystems and drive meaningful innovation.
Contact: robert.iula@gmail.com | https://robiu.la | @skell on X | LinkedIn