The What Bitcoin Did Podcast is a tri-weekly show where Peter McCormack interviews experts in the world of Bitcoin development, privacy, investment and adoption. Rated 4.8/5 on Apple Podcasts.
Pete Rizzo is the editor of Bitcoin Magazine, and one of Bitcoin’s leading journalists. In this interview, we discuss the role of Ordinals, Inscriptions and BRC20 tokens, whether they are a positive or negative for Bitcoin and the growing divide in Bitcoin culture.
Read MoreDave Smith is a comedian and host of ‘Part Of The Problem Podcast’. In this interview, we discuss libertarianism, government responses to COVID and the political climate in the UK and US. We also reflect on economic challenges facing individuals, particularly the younger generation's struggle with housing affordability, whilst critiquing government control over money and how Bitcoin limits this power. The episode also covers the role of comedians in defending free speech.
Read MoreHunter Horsley is the Co-founder and CEO of Bitwise. In this interview, we discuss the launch of the Bitcoin ETFs, including the impact on investors and the investment market, and the broader implications for the monetary system and the future of Bitcoin. We talk about regulatory challenges and the importance of educating financial advisors on Bitcoin. The conversation also covers the mechanics of ETFs, the role of authorized participants and the services Bitwise provide.
Read MoreLyn Alden is a macroeconomist and investment strategist. In this interview, we discuss the challenges of promoting Bitcoin and its growing acceptance in mainstream media and finance. We delve into Bitcoin scaling, the trade-offs between self-sovereignty and convenience, and the need for education to onboard new users. The episode also covers Bitcoin's role in countries with economic challenges, the empowerment it offers individuals and its transformative potential in society.
Read MoreJames Seyffart is an analyst for Bloomberg Intelligence covering ETFs, and Alex Thorn is the Head of Firmwide Research at Galaxy. In this interview, we explore the implications of the recently launched Bitcoin ETFs. We delve into the mechanics of ETF trading, analyse how ETFs might reduce Bitcoin's volatility, and speculate on the future introduction of Ethereum ETFs and their potential effects.
Read MoreAaron Van Wirdum is a Bitcoin journalist and author of ‘The Genesis Book’. In this interview, we discuss the history of Bitcoin, including the importance of consensus algorithms and public key cryptography, early scepticism towards Bitcoin from cypherpunks, Satoshi's decision to remain anonymous, and its fixed monetary policy. We also talk about the influence of Austrian economics on Bitcoin's foundation, and the significance of privacy in digital transactions.
Read MoreGiacomo Zucco is a Bitcoin educator, John Carvalho is CEO of Synonym, and Matt Corallo is a Bitcoin Core developer and open-source engineer at Block/Spiral. In this interview, we discuss how to scale Bitcoin while maintaining self-sovereignty.
Read MoreRachel Geyer is Head of Education at Terahash, co-founder of Les Femmes Orange and Vice-Chair of the European Bitcoin Energy Association. In this interview, we delve into Bitcoin's role in addressing energy challenges and fostering sustainable mining practices in Europe. We also discuss the formation of the EBEA, the importance of engaging with policymakers to prevent the banning of PoW and the growth of Bitcoin communities in Europe.
Read MoreAllen Farrington is the co-author of ‘Bitcoin Is Venice’ and Eric Yakes is the author of ‘The 7th Property’. In this interview, we do a deep dive into the future of the Bitcoin-centric financial system, focusing on self-sovereignty, scalability, and the future of banking. We also explore the potential of Bitcoin to serve as a superior form of money addressing issues of custody and sovereignty, and the separation of money from state influence.
Read MoreLyn Alden is a macroeconomist and investment strategist. In this interview, we discuss the success of Lyn's book before delving into the complexities of the current economic landscape, including the correlation between global liquidity and asset prices, notably Bitcoin. The conversation covers the bond market, inflation measures, bank insolvency issues, and the impact of fiscal policies on the economy. Lyn also shares insights on Bitcoin's price cycles.
Read MoreFran Finney is the widow of the legendary Hal Finney, who received the first Bitcoin transaction. In this interview, we discuss her husband's impact, their life together, and his battle with ALS. We also talk about the importance of Bitcoin, the challenges Hal and her faced due to harassment, and the concept of cryopreservation. The conversation also touches on the significance of fundraising for ALS research and how the Bitcoin community can contribute to this cause.
Read MorePeter Van Valkenburgh is director of research at Coin Center. In this interview, we discuss Coin Center's role in educating lawmakers, analysing policy proposals, and advocating for reasonable regulations. Peter talks about their current lawsuits against the US Treasury and IRS, challenging the misapplication of tax and sanctions regulations. We also cover the changing dynamics of political support for Bitcoin and the challenges posed by figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren.
Read MoreWhitney Webb is an independent investigative journalist who founded Unlimited Hangout, which covers intelligence, tech, surveillance and civil liberties. In this interview, we discuss the importance of independent journalism, the challenges of media manipulation and the rise of tyranny. We also talk about the risks of AI, the influence of powerful figures like Elon Musk and the need for public scrutiny, and the potential co-opting of Bitcoin by powerful institutions.
Read MoreJeff Booth is the Author of The Price of Tomorrow & CEO/Chairman of Ego Death Capital and Alex Gladstein is Chief Strategy Officer at the Human Rights Foundation. In this interview, we discuss the devastating effects of currency devaluation, the systemic issues of exploitation, debt, and inequality, and the potential of Bitcoin to provide economic hope and empowerment.
Read MorePerianne Boring is the Founder and CEO of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. In this interview, we discuss Senator Elizabeth Warren's stance on crypto, her proposed anti-crypto legislation and the status of Bitcoin ETFs. We talk about the political system, the influence of special interest groups and the need for reform. Perinanne explains why engagement with policymakers is critical, and how she is fighting for the future of Bitcoin and the digital asset industry.
Read MoreErik Hersman is a co-founder of Gridless. In this interview, we discuss Africa, focusing on economic issues like inflation, devaluation and people’s struggles to make a living. We talk about Bitcoin’s potential to create economic opportunities in Africa, the importance of building products that meet the needs of people and provide real value, and the use of mobile money. Finally, we cover Bitcoin mining in Africa and its impact on energy infrastructure.
Read MoreFemi Longe is program director for Btrust Builders, which educates developers in Africa about Bitcoin. In this interview, we discuss societal issues faced by people in different parts of the world, the economic imperialism hampering emerging economies, and the challenges Africans face in accessing the global financial system. We also talk about the impact of external powers on Africa and the potential of Bitcoin to change the global financial conversation.
Read MoreMarty Bent is a Venture Partner at Ten31 and founder of the Bitcoin-focused media company TFTC.io, Thomas Pacchia is a Bitcoin entrepreneur and co-owner of the NY Bitcoin bar Pubkey, and James McAvity is the founder and CEO of the Bitcoin Mining company Cormint. In this interview, we discuss Bitcoin’s potential future, its interaction with financial institutions, the challenges and risks of the Bitcoin mining industry and why Texas is favourable for Bitcoin.
Read MoreBob Burnett is the Chairman and CEO of Barefoot Mining. In this interview, we discuss his transition from the PC industry to Bitcoin and his passion for Bitcoin mining. Bob explains the complexities of mining, its potential future and the role of fees in sustaining the industry. We also talk about the scarcity of block space in the Bitcoin network, the importance of the Lightning Network, the early years of Bitcoin and the public’s current perception of Bitcoin.
Read MoreGary Leland is the founder of the BitBlockBoom Bitcoin conference. In this interview, we discuss the importance of Bitcoin conferences, how to organise, market and run Bitcoin events, and Gary’s path to Bitcoin. We also talk about approaches to Bitcoin investment and spending, our entrepreneurial journeys, travel experiences and approaches to parenting. The conversation concludes with a discussion about football and the offside rule!
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