Hey y’all! It’s JC

If you told me in 2017 that I’d be trying to build a career in crypto—messaging founders, freelancing across time zones, and hunting down business roles like a man on a mission—I probably would’ve laughed. Back then, I was just swapping coins, curious about what this space could be. Now? It’s personal. It’s purposeful. And honestly? It’s hard—but I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything.

A Job That Doesn’t Exist (Until You Make It)

Let’s get one thing straight: trying to land a Business Development or Account Executive role in crypto isn’t like applying for a normal job. To grow projects, companies, dApps in crypto you need network, you need to understand the landscape, you need to understand what moves the market and what gathers engagement.

But that’s what makes it exciting.

The past few months, I’ve been freelancing here and there, short-term contract work that keeps me inside the space. Whether it’s content, strategy, or helping a project shape their messaging, it’s not always glamorous, but it’s real. It’s helped me stay close to the builders, and more importantly, learn how this space actually runs behind the scenes.

Connecting with the People Who Make Crypto Tick

What’s kept me going? The people.

I’ve had calls with founders, growth leads, devs and even a BDM from Crypto.com (my dream role) —people I never would’ve crossed paths with outside of Web3. Everyone’s got their own story, how they fell into crypto, what they’re building, what they believe is possible. Some are riding high and others are in the trenches. But there’s one thing they all have in common... conviction.

And that rubs off.

Every call, every DM, every random voice memo from someone I met on Warpcast reminds me why I want in. Not just as a fan. Not just as a user. But as someone who helps projects grow, scale, and communicate their value to the world. That’s the AE/BDM itch I’m trying to scratch.

It’s Harder Than I Thought

Let’s not sugarcoat it, breaking in hasn’t been easy.

I’ve sent cold emails that never got a reply. Jumped on calls that went nowhere. Seen roles pop up and vanish before I could finish my coffee. Some days, I wonder if I’m close… or if I’m still at the starting line.

But what keeps me going is the clarity. I know this is what I want to do. I’ve got the skills from my Telstra days with five years of sales, negotiation, and partner management and I’m sharpening the rest every day through the work I can get.

Crypto moves fast. Teams scale and shrink on a dime. I’m not waiting for someone to give me permission anymore, I’m proving I’m already doing the work.

Sharing the Journey (Even When It’s Messy)

One of the best things I’ve done lately? Just started talking.

I’ve been sharing insights from conversations I’ve had, thoughts on projects I’m watching, and the real stuff, like how hard it can be sometimes to land a job in this space. Not to go viral, not to get clout, but because I know someone else out there is trying to do the same thing and wondering if they’re alone.

And honestly? That openness has brought in more connections than any polished resume ever could. It’s how I’ve ended up freelancing for teams that saw my posts and reached out to have a conversation. It’s how I’ve met other folks chasing similar roles, swapping advice, intros, and encouragement. That’s the power of showing up, even when it’s rough around the edges.

The Long Game

This journey’s teaching me something valuable: if you’re trying to break into crypto, especially on the business side, you’re not just applying, you’re building.

You’re building trust. Relationships. Reps. Proof. I might not have a full-time AE or BDM title (yet), but I’m getting closer. Every call, every project, every blog post, this one included is part of the path.

If you’re on a similar journey, my advice? Keep showing up. Stay curious. Reach out to people. Do small things well. And don’t wait for someone to hand you the dream. Start living like you already work in the space, and you’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes real.

Wrap-Up

Maybe chasing a crypto career is less about waiting for the right role and more about creating your own lane. I’m still on the road, but I know where I’m headed. What about you? If you’re trying to carve out a place in this wild space too, drop me a line—I’d love to hear your story.

Let’s build this thing together.

Cover Image x LearnFi