Thanksgiving is a time for connection, sharing, and sometimes persuading your loved ones to see the world a little more like you do. If you’re a crypto enthusiast, this might be the perfect moment to bring up digital assets at the dinner table—but it’s essential to approach the topic in a way that resonates with your audience.
Too often, crypto fans dive headfirst into complex technical explanations about blockchain, mining, and decentralization, only to lose their audience before the mashed potatoes make it around the table. The key to a meaningful conversation is to stay high-level and focus on relatable aspects, particularly the predictability of crypto’s four-year cycle and the opportunities presented during bull runs.
Start with Common Ground
Begin by framing crypto as an emerging investment opportunity. Ask your family members questions they can relate to:
- “Have you heard about how Bitcoin has been one of the best-performing assets of the last decade?”
- “Are you familiar with how inflation impacts traditional savings accounts?”
Most people are more willing to listen when they feel the conversation is relevant to their lives. Relate crypto to familiar topics like the stock market, real estate cycles, or savings growth.
Explain the Four-Year Cycle in Simple Terms
The crypto market follows a pattern, driven largely by Bitcoin’s halving events (when the reward for mining Bitcoin is cut in half). This cycle typically includes:
- A bear market (prices drop, creating buying opportunities).
- A recovery phase (prices stabilize and begin climbing).
- A bull run (massive price increases, attracting media and investor attention).
Highlight the historical consistency of this pattern. For example:
- In 2017, Bitcoin surged from under $1,000 to nearly $20,000 during a bull run.
- In 2021, Bitcoin climbed again to nearly $69,000 after the 2020 halving.
With the Bitcoin Halving that happened earlier this year in 2024, the bull run has shown to be already in full effect. History doesn’t guarantee the future, but it’s a trend worth noticing.
Focus on Gains, Not the Tech
You don’t need to explain how blockchain works or what Ethereum gas fees are. Instead, discuss the potential for gains during bull runs:
- Share relatable examples, like how a small investment in Bitcoin or Ethereum a few years ago could have grown substantially.
- Emphasize that crypto can be a small, speculative part of an overall investment portfolio, not an all-or-nothing gamble.
For instance:
- “If you had invested $1,000 in Bitcoin five years ago, it would be worth [X] today.”
Address Risks Responsibly
Crypto isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Be upfront about the volatility and risks, but frame it as part of the opportunity:
- “Crypto is still a new and growing market, so prices can go up and down dramatically. That’s why it’s important to only invest what you’re willing to lose and think long-term.”
This approach makes you sound reasonable and helps avoid the “crypto cultist” label.
Offer a Simple Way to Start
If your family is interested, suggest easy ways to dip their toes into crypto:
- Use beginner-friendly apps like Coinbase or Cash App.
- Start small—just $10 or $20 to get a feel for it.
- Focus on major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum rather than chasing obscure altcoins.
Leave the Door Open for Future Conversations
Even if your family doesn’t rush to set up wallets after dessert, you’ve planted a seed. End the conversation with an invitation:
- “If you’re ever curious about crypto or want help getting started, let me know.”
Over time, as the market evolves and headlines roll in, they might just come back to you for advice.
Closing Thought
Talking about crypto at the Thanksgiving table doesn’t have to turn into a heated debate. By keeping the conversation simple, relatable, and focused on the investment potential rather than the technology, you can spark genuine interest. Who knows—your aunt might be thanking you during next year’s Thanksgiving toast for helping her make a life-changing investment.