Joe Quirk, president of the Seasteading Institute, discusses the innovative concept of seasteading, which proposes creating floating societies on the ocean as a solution to the limitations of land-based governance. Quirk shares his personal journey into the world of seasteading, drawing parallels between cruise ships, Burning Man, and the potential for self-governing communities at sea. He explores the practicalities of building seasteads, the challenges faced, and the legal frameworks necessary for their success. The conversation also touches on sustainability, food production, and the economic viability of living on the ocean. He emphasizes the ecological benefits of building structures at sea, the innovative business models that can emerge, and the need for political autonomy. He also highlights the importance of material science and competition in developing sustainable structures that can withstand ocean conditions.

Takeaways

• Seasteading offers a solution to the governance monopoly problem.

• Cruise ships exemplify successful self-governing societies.

• Variation and selection in governance can lead to progress.

• Experiences at Burning Man illustrate innovative social structures.

• Seasteads can be built using various materials and technologies.

• Legal frameworks are essential for the establishment of seasteads.

• Safety and sustainability are key considerations for ocean living.

• Food production on seasteads can include seaweed and seafood farming.

• Economic viability is crucial for the future of seasteading.

• Seasteading represents a new frontier for human innovation and governance. The ocean can support diverse life when solid structures are introduced.

• Seasteads require political autonomy to be truly effective.

• The future may see a proliferation of small, innovative nations at sea.

• Cruise ships serve as a model for future floating cities.

• Innovative business models can thrive in marine environments.

• Sustainable farming and biotech research can be more effective at sea.

• Material science is crucial for building durable seasteads.

•  The ocean's diversity offers opportunities for new governance models.

• Seasteading can provide alternatives to traditional land governance.

• Support for seasteading initiatives is essential for their success.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(01:04) - What is Seasteading?

(04:08) - How did Joe's experience at Burning Man inspire him to pursue Seasteading?

(09:36) - The evolution of Governance and Social structures

(14:53) - Challenges & innovations in Seasteading

(18:16) - What are the legal & regulatory aspects of Seasteading?

(22:46) - How safe is it to live on the ocean? 

(25:05) - Sponsors

(27:22) - How does one produce or source food on Seasteads?

(31:22) - How much does a Seastead cost?

(34:00) - Aquatic life and its role in Seasteads 

(35:35) - Future of Seasteading

(40:57) - Innovative business models viable at Sea

(45:41) - Sponsors(51:08) - Building sustainable structures at Sea

(57:28) - What’s next for Seasteading?

Links: 

• https://x.com/joequirkexults 

• https://x.com/seasteading 

• https://www.seasteading.org/ 

• https://oceanbuilders.com/
  

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

• Nomadcapitalist.com/apply

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Steve and Lyn delve into the complexities of Bitcoin consensus, discussing the motivations behind their project analyzing consensus risks in protocol upgrades. They explore the technical and economic aspects of Bitcoin, the evolution of its consensus mechanisms, and the various stakeholder groups involved in decision-making processes. 

The discussion also highlights the importance of awareness among Bitcoin users regarding potential changes and the historical context of contentious changes in Bitcoin's past.

They explore the challenges of gaining adoption for alternative clients, the implications of activation methods for protocol changes, and the overall robustness of the Bitcoin network. The discussion also emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding of these dynamics to foster better decision-making within the Bitcoin community.

Takeaways

• Understanding Bitcoin consensus is crucial for all stakeholders.

• Bitcoin's growth changes the dynamics of consensus.

• Different philosophies exist regarding Bitcoin's evolution.

• Investors need to be aware of consensus changes.

• Knowledge empowers Bitcoin users to make informed decisions.

• Stakeholder groups have varying powers and incentives.

• The Bitcoin community is evolving and requires ongoing education.

• Historical changes in Bitcoin provide lessons for the future.

• Soft forks present different challenges compared to hard forks.

• The project aims to be a living document for ongoing contributions. The Bitcoin network must have the option for alternative clients to ensure a healthy ecosystem.

• Gaining adoption for alternative clients is challenging and can lead to a fragile network.

• Investors hold significant power in determining the future of Bitcoin, especially during contentious changes.

• Self-custody investors have a unique advantage in navigating potential forks in the network.

• The method of activation for protocol changes is a contentious topic with no clear best practice.

• Bitcoin's governance is complex, and no single group has unilateral power over decisions.

• Awareness of governance dynamics can lead to better collective decision-making in the Bitcoin community.

• The separation of the consensus engine from the Bitcoin Core could facilitate alternative clients.

• The future of Bitcoin's consensus mechanism is uncertain and requires careful monitoring of stakeholder dynamics.

• The project discussed is an open-source initiative, inviting community engagement and improvements.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(00:40) - What is the objective of Bitcoin Consensus Analysis (BCAP)? 

(06:55) - What are the technical aspects of the Bitcoin Consensus?

(11:29) - Examples of consensus changes

(16:15) - What are the stakeholder groups in Bitcoin?

(22:57) - Sponsors

(25:34) - What are the various ‘States of Mind’ regarding changes in the Bitcoin Consensus?

(31:00) - Historical context of changes in Bitcoin

(38:56) - The importance of alternative clients in Bitcoin

(47:06) - What power do bitcoin investors have?

(49:31) - Sponsors

(54:33) - Implications of various Activation methods

(1:00:02) - Why is Bitcoin not a democracy of miners?

(1:06:01) - The future of Bitcoin's consensus changes

(1:14:16) - Closing thoughts 

Links: 

• https://github.com/bitcoin-cap/bcap  

• https://x.com/LynAldenContact 

• https://x.com/moneyball 

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Roman Martinez, Lexi & Stephan discuss the evolving real estate landscape in El Salvador, particularly in the context of Bitcoin adoption. They explore the motivations of various buyers, the impact of recent changes in infrastructure and regulations, and the unique challenges and opportunities present in the market. The conversation also touches on the importance of trust in real estate transactions and the varying expectations of foreign buyers regarding property quality and development. Lexi and Roman also discuss the experience of moving to El Salvador, highlighting cultural adjustments, healthcare quality, language integration, and the real estate market. They emphasize the importance of understanding local customs, the benefits of private healthcare, and the growing expat community. 

The podcast also covers the real estate landscape, including prices, investment opportunities, and the significance of discovery trips for potential expats. They conclude by addressing the risks associated with real estate investments and the importance of due diligence.

Takeaways

• El Salvador's real estate market is evolving rapidly.

• Many buyers are looking for a 'plan B' due to safety concerns.

• Bitcoin adoption is influencing real estate investments.

• There are no property taxes in El Salvador, attracting investors.

• Bitcoin Beach is a key area for Bitcoin enthusiasts.

• Real estate transactions require trust and local knowledge.

• Expectations of property quality vary among foreign buyers.

• Pre-construction projects are gaining popularity.

• Education on Bitcoin is crucial for local adoption.

• Location is a critical factor in real estate investment decisions. Cultural understanding is crucial for expats in El Salvador.

• Healthcare in El Salvador can be better than in the US.

• Learning Spanish enhances the experience of living in El Salvador.

• Real estate prices have increased significantly in recent years.

• El Salvador offers a unique lifestyle that differs from Western norms.

• Discovery trips provide valuable insights for potential expats.

• The private healthcare system in El Salvador is highly accessible.

• Real estate investment requires careful consideration and due diligence.

• The expat community in El Salvador is growing and vibrant.

• El Salvador is seen as a country with potential for growth and opportunity.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(00:54) - What is Goodlife El Salvador?; El Salvador’s Real Estate landscape

(04:05) - What is the Real Estate buyer persona in El Salvador?

(05:52) - What motivates people to move to El Salvador?

(10:35) - Bitcoin education, adoption and spending in El Salvador

(15:30) - Living in Bitcoin Hubs & adjacent localities 

(20:18) - What are the Real Estate investment trends? 

(22:11) - Common pitfalls for new buyers

(27:41) - Sponsors

(29:55) - Quality of development & matching the expectations of expats 

(31:49) - Cultural norms & Healthcare in El Salvador

(38:32) - Overcoming language barriers 

(41:17) - Real Estate prices & trends in El Salvador

(43:33) - Sponsors

(50:47) - What to expect in El Salvador?; Discovery trips for expats

(57:42) - Navigating Real Estate risks

Links: 

• https://x.com/goodlife_sv 

• https://x.com/romanmartinezc 

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

In this conversation, Freddie New, general counsel at The Little Car and Head of Policy at Bitcoin Policy UK, discusses the evolution of Bitcoin regulation in the UK. He highlights the historical context of regulatory attitudes, the role of the Law Commission in recognizing Bitcoin as property, and the challenges posed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). 

The conversation also touches on banking access issues, the impact of fraud concerns, and the future of Bitcoin custodianship. They also discuss the strategic reserve held by the UK government, regulatory challenges faced by Bitcoin exchanges, and the broader policy goals for Bitcoin advocacy. Freddie sheds light on the political landscape and the need for engagement with politicians to promote Bitcoin-friendly policies. Additionally, they address the ECB's recent criticisms of Bitcoin and contrast the regulatory approaches of the UK and EU.

Takeaways

• Freddie New advocates for Bitcoin policy in the UK.

• The UK has a history of misunderstanding Bitcoin.

• The Law Commission has recognized Bitcoin as property.

• The FCA has restricted access to Bitcoin products.

• Fraud concerns impact banking access for Bitcoin users.

• Bitcoin is seen as a unique form of money.

• The government is becoming more positive about Bitcoin.

• Banks are primarily concerned with self-preservation.

• The FCA's stance is a significant barrier to adoption.

• Bitcoin is for both individuals and institutions. The UK holds 61,000 Bitcoin, making it the third largest holder.

• There is a need for the UK to capitalize on its Bitcoin holdings.

• Self-custody of Bitcoin must remain legal in the UK.

• Access to exchanges and banking services is crucial for Bitcoin adoption.

• The UK should explore the potential of Bitcoin mining using renewable energy.

• Political engagement is essential for Bitcoin advocacy in the UK.

• The ECB's criticisms of Bitcoin are fundamentally flawed.

• The UK and EU have different regulatory approaches to Bitcoin.

• Pension funds are beginning to allocate assets to Bitcoin.

• Support for Bitcoin Policy UK can help influence positive change.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(01:00) - Who is Freddie New?

(03:26) - An overview of Bitcoin regulatory scenario in the UK

(08:00) - The shift in perception: From criminality to legitimacy

(17:23) - Are banking onramps/offramps to Bitcoin a hurdle in the UK?

(21:13) - AML regulations & their Implications for Bitcoin

(26:21) - Sponsors

(32:08) - The FCA's resistance to Bitcoin adoption in the UK; Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

(40:43) - Sponsors

(44:02) - Answering a questionnaire to buy Bitcoin in the UK?

(47:51) - What are the Policy Goals for Bitcoin in the UK?; Bitcoin Developer community 

(53:06) - Politicians & their stance on Bitcoin advocacy

(1:06:27) - Contrasting UK & EU Regulatory approaches

(1:12:00) - How to support Bitcoin Policy UK?

Links: 

• https://x.com/freddienew 

• Bill on digital property that's currently going through Parliament: https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3766 

• Exchange walkthroughs:  https://x.com/freddienew/status/1743644557441470496

• https://uk.bitcoinpolicy.net/ 

• http://www.bitcoinpolicy.uk/

• Steve Baker speaking on Bitcoin in Parliament in 2014: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXQpXYvUB98 

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

• Nomadcapitalist.com/apply

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack
  

Eric Yakes & Tyler Stevens join me to discuss their efforts to build a Bitcoin-focused community in Denver through various events, educational initiatives, and sustainable financial practices. 

Summary

In this episode, Stephan Livera hosts Eric Yakes and Tyler Stevens to discuss the burgeoning Bitcoin community in Denver and their initiative to establish a dedicated Bitcoin space. They explore the dynamics of the local Bitcoin scene, the vision behind creating a community-driven hub, and the importance of governance and member engagement. The conversation also touches on the philosophy of creating a 'third place' for Bitcoin enthusiasts, comparing their efforts to similar initiatives like Bitcoin Park in Nashville, and outlining plans for coworking and events in their new space. In this conversation, Tyler and Eric emphasize the importance of documentation for leadership transitions, the need for financial sustainability, and the engagement of the developer community. They also share insights on creating educational opportunities and offer advice for others looking to establish similar community spaces.

Takeaways

• The Bitcoin community in Denver is rapidly growing.

• Creating a Bitcoin space aims to bridge social and technical meetups.

• Community-driven governance fosters member engagement and influence.

• The 'third place' philosophy emphasizes a balanced community environment.

• The Denver Bitcoin space seeks to attract talent from the broader crypto community.

• The governance structure allows for member representation and influence.

• The space is designed to be a hub for education and events.

• The initiative aims to positively influence the local culture and economy. 

• You need to motivate your local community.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro 

(01:21) - The vibrant Bitcoin community in Denver; BitDevs

(04:48) - What is Bitcoin Space? 

(09:21) - ‘The Third Place’ Philosophy in Bitcoin

(14:45) - Similarities & differences between Bitcoin Space, Denver & Bitcoin Park, Nashville

(15:54) - Community growth & member engagement in Bitcoin Space

(18:57) - Sponsors

(21:39) - Building community through Coworking & Events at Bitcoin Space

(27:00) - Self-sustaining nature of leadership & importance of documentation

(29:32) - Financial sustainability and Treasury management

(32:36) - FOSS Developer community in Denver; Creating Educational initiatives 

(33:44) - Sponsors

(42:15) - Advice for aspiring Community Builders

(45:28) - Outro

Includes Paid Partnerships

Links: 

• Eric Yakes: https://x.com/ericyakes 

• Tyler Stevens: https://x.com/tylerkstevens 

• The Space: https://x.com/SpaceDenver 

• https://denver.space/ 

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Here are some short interviews I did while at Lugano Plan B on a range of topics, from bitcoin ossification to block size, government regulation, the latest state of wallets, and mining decentralization with:

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro 

(01:01) - Jimmy Song, Bitcoin Expert

(07:30) - John Carvalho, CEO at Synonym

(12:51) - Sponsors

(15:05) - Dennis Porter, CEO & Co-Founder Satoshi Action Fund

(24:58) - Ben, Host of BTCsessions

(31:54) - Sponsor

(32:50) - Luke Dashjr, CTO OCEAN Mining

(37:53) - Jameson Lopp, Co-founder & Chief Security Officer Cas

(47:22) - Outro

Links: 

• https://x.com/LuganoPlanB 

• https://x.com/jimmysong 

• https://x.com/BitcoinErrorLog 

• https://x.com/Dennis_Porter_ 

• https://x.com/BTCsessions 

• https://x.com/LukeDashjr 

• https://x.com/lopp 

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Fabian Jahr and Gloria Zhao rejoin me to discuss whether big projects can be done inside Bitcoin core. We delve into AssumeUTXO, ASMap, developer funding, and meritocracy in the developer community.

Summary

In this episode, Stephan discusses the upcoming Bitcoin Core version 28, its new features, and the ongoing development efforts with Fabian and Gloria. They delve into the pace of change within Bitcoin Core, the importance of communication and collaboration in software development, and the challenges faced by developers in getting projects approved. The conversation also covers the AssumeUTXO project, its implications for node operation, and the significance of funding and competing implementations in the Bitcoin ecosystem. The episode concludes with insights into future projects and the collaborative nature of Bitcoin development.

Takeaways

• Bitcoin Core version 28 introduces exciting new features.

• The development process involves both small bug fixes and significant changes.

• Communication and collaboration are essential for project success.

• AssumeUTXO allows for quicker node synchronization.

• The decentralized nature of Bitcoin development presents unique challenges.

• Funding can influence project focus but should not dictate it.

• Competing implementations can complicate backward compatibility.

• Iterative development is crucial for large projects.

• Engaging the community early can lead to better outcomes.

• Future projects like ASMap and Cluster Mempool are on the horizon.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(00:32) - What to expect from Bitcoin Core V28.0?

(05:10) - What should be the pace of change for Bitcoin Core?

(11:15) - How does one decide which is a worthwhile project to work on?

(14:15) - Why did it take so long for AssumeUTXO to go live?

(20:38) - AssumeUTXO explained

(22:04) - Sponsors

(25:40) - BtcpayServer ‘s Fast Sync 

(27:36) - Developer funding landscape in Bitcoin; Working on FOSS 

(31:27) - What are the effects of having various implementations of Bitcoin Core?

(35:05) - What does it take to successfully merge a PR?

(37:31) - What is the ASMap project?

(48:34) - Sponsor

(49:58) - Importance of soft skills & meritocracy in Bitcoin’s developer community

(1:00:13) - Upcoming projects; Closing thoughts 

Previous Episodes: 

`

• SLP214 Pierre Rochard & Fabian Jahr – Where Are All The Bitcoins?:  https://youtu.be/PQWy_UR9PzY 

• SLP216 Gloria Zhao Learning Bitcoin Core Contribution & Hosting PR Review Club: https://youtu.be/O-Q-SmuXjS4 

• SLP404 Gloria Zhao - What Do Bitcoin Core Maintainers Do?: https://youtu.be/a61lUwlOF80 

• v3 Transactions and Package Relay with Glozow (SLP511): https://youtu.be/H1o7TgTCMjk 

Links: 

• Bitcoin Core v28.0: https://bitcoincore.org/en/download/

• ASMap: https://delvingbitcoin.org/t/asmap-creation-process/548

• AssumeUTXO tracking: https://github.com/bitcoin/bitcoin/issues/29616

• https://bitcoinops.org/en/topics/assumeutxo/ 

• TRUC / v3 topic: https://bitcoinops.org/en/topics/version-3-transaction-relay/

• Package relay topic: https://bitcoinops.org/en/topics/package-relay/

• Package relay tracking: https://github.com/bitcoin/bitcoin/issues/27463

• https://brink.dev

• Testnet 4 PR: https://github.com/bitcoin/bitcoin/pull/29775

• BIP94: https://github.com/bitcoin/bips/pull/1601

• CISA website: https://cisaresearch.org

• CISA fellowship: https://x.com/ck_SNARKs/status/1817928417184203162 

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Summary

In this conversation, Keith Gardner from Branta, discusses the importance of security in Bitcoin transactions. Keith shares his background in engineering and how he became involved in Bitcoin after recognizing the complexities and risks associated with traditional finance. 

The discussion covers common phishing and address replacement attacks, the innovative solutions offered by Branta to enhance transaction security, and the future of Bitcoin in relation to mobile integration and privacy concerns. Keith emphasizes the need for user-friendly tools that can help prevent scams and ensure safe transactions in the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency. 

The discussion also covers long-term strategies for Bitcoin custody, innovations in software security, and key takeaways for individuals to safeguard their investments.

Takeaways

• Keith Gardner transitioned from engineering to Bitcoin due to complexities in traditional finance.

• Branta was created to address the fear of losing Bitcoin through phishing attacks.

• Phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks are significant threats in Bitcoin transactions.

• Branta aims to provide a solution that verifies Bitcoin addresses before transactions.

• Mobile integration is a future goal for Branta, focusing on QR code technology.

• Branta operates as an invisible layer alongside existing wallets to enhance security.

• Privacy is a critical concern, and Branta ensures user data is protected.

• The software does not handle private keys or expose user Xpubs.

• Branta's future developments will include support for the Lightning Network.

• The goal is to make Bitcoin transactions safer and more user-friendly. Ensure secure transactions by verifying addresses before sending funds.

• Phishing attacks are prevalent; always guard your inbox.

• Education on security practices is crucial for crypto users.

• Creating friction in transactions can prevent impulsive decisions.

• Long-term strategies for Bitcoin custody are essential for security.

• Utilize multi-sig and cold storage for larger amounts of Bitcoin.

• Be cautious of urgency in requests for sensitive information.

• Nostra's web of trust can enhance security in transactions.

• Regularly check the authenticity of software before downloading.

• Treat your Bitcoin as if it were worth significantly more.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(00:36) - Keith’s background; What is Branta?

(03:10) - Recent attack vectors on Bitcoin (Phishing and Address Replacement)

(08:13) - Is Branta mobile friendly? 

(12:12) - Is Branta for personal use or businesses?

(17:09) - Integrating Lightning & other Layer 2 solutions 

(18:24) - Sponsors

(26:01) - Privacy concerns and User Data Protection

(31:36) - Guarding against Phishing & Spoofing attacks

(34:37) - Why is friction important in financial transactions?

(38:50) - Bitcoin custody is a long-term responsibility 

(39:15) - Sponsors

(44:45) - What are the possible risks with Branta?

(53:14) - Key takeaways for protecting your Bitcoin

Links: 

• https://x.com/unfakekeith 

• https://x.com/BrantaOps 

• https://www.branta.pro/ 

• https://github.com/BrantaOps 

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

• Nomadcapitalist.com/apply

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Harris Irfan, CEO Cordoba Capital Markets & Advisor at @OnrampMENA joins me to discuss challenges and opportunities within Islamic finance, ethics of finance in business and the intersection of Islamic finance and Bitcoin. Harris highlights building a financial system focused on real economy transactions, sharing insights on finance, custody, and Bitcoin investment. 

Summary

In this conversation, Harris Irfan discusses his journey from conventional finance to Islamic finance and Bitcoin. He explores the challenges and opportunities within Islamic finance, particularly in relation to ethical finance and risk-sharing principles. The discussion delves into the intersection of Islamic finance and Bitcoin, highlighting the potential for Bitcoin to serve as a sound monetary system that aligns with Islamic principles. Harris emphasizes the importance of creating a financial system that prioritizes real economy transactions over speculative practices, and he shares insights on the future of finance, custody, and investment decisions in a Bitcoin standard.

Takeaways

• Harris Irfan transitioned from conventional finance to Islamic finance and Bitcoin.

• Islamic finance emphasizes ethical finance and risk-sharing principles.

• Bitcoin is viewed as a modern form of sound money, potentially more Islamic than gold.

• The challenges of Islamic finance are exacerbated by the fiat banking system.

• Custody solutions for Bitcoin are evolving, with a focus on self-custody.

• Cultural perspectives on money influence the adoption of Bitcoin in Muslim communities.

• Trade finance can be structured to align incentives between investors and businesses.

• The VC industry may need to adapt to a sound money standard.

• Hurdle rates for investments will change in a Bitcoin economy.

• Optimism about the future of Bitcoin is essential for its growth.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro 

(01:04) - Harris’s background with finance & Islamic banking

(07:44) - Comparing Fiat banking with Islamic finance 

(12:06) - The intersection of Islamic finance and Bitcoin

(18:21) - Custodying Bitcoin - Individuals vs. Trusted custodians

(25:51) - What are misconceptions about Bitcoin among muslims?

(30:20) - What are the cultural differences when operating on a Fiat Standard vs Sound Money Standard?

(33:27) - What does it mean to share risk in finance?

(39:12) - The viability of different financial models

(45:35) - What would finance look like in a Full Reserve Bitcoin banking world?

(54:17) - How does one navigate with morality & ethics in the current Fiat world?

(59:00) - Bitcoin compared to hurdle rates in investment decisions

(1:02:11) - Outro

Includes Paid Partnerships

(16:04) - Sponsors

(38:11) - Sponsor

Links: 

• https://x.com/harris_irfan 

• https://www.ccmkts.com/

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Summary

In this episode, Kenji Tateiwa, CEO of Agile Energy X, discusses his extensive background in nuclear engineering and the impact of the Fukushima disaster on public perception of nuclear energy. He explains the innovative concept behind Agile Energy X, which leverages wasted renewable energy through Bitcoin mining to address curtailment and grid congestion issues in Japan. Kenji elaborates on the unique flexibility of Bitcoin mining as an energy buyer and its potential role in the future energy landscape, including the integration of circular economy principles. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities in Japan's energy production, particularly regarding nuclear energy and the need for a diverse energy portfolio.

Takeaways

• Kenji Tateiwa has a strong background in nuclear engineering.

• The Fukushima disaster significantly impacted public perception of nuclear energy.

• Agile Energy X aims to utilize wasted renewable energy through Bitcoin mining.

• Bitcoin mining can help solve curtailment and grid congestion issues.

• The concept of 'Megawatt to MegaHash' connects energy production to Bitcoin mining.

• Bitcoin mining is flexible and can be turned on and off as needed.

• AI data centers are less flexible compared to Bitcoin mining.

• Agile Energy X has a two-pronged strategy to hedge against market fluctuations.

• The circular economy can be integrated into energy solutions.

• Japan's energy future requires a diverse mix of energy sources.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(00:50) - Who is Kenji Tateiwa and what is TEPCO?

(05:34) - What are the various components of energy markets?

(06:30) - Fukushima and the perception of nuclear energy 

(09:42) - What is Agile Energy X & why was it created?

(14:15) - Convincing TEPCO to mine Bitcoin; Solving the energy issue

(16:14) - Understanding Curtailment and Grid Congestion

(20:06) - Sponsors

(23:10) - Megawatt to MegaHash: Bridging Energy and Bitcoin

(25:42) - Bitcoin Mining vs. AI Data Centers

(29:02) - The competitive landscape of Bitcoin mining

(33:26) - Sponsors 

(37:58) - Challenges and opportunities in Nuclear Energy

(42:12) - Curtailment of renewable energy could reach 42% in Japan by 2050?

(45:41) - Scaling Bitcoin mining in Japan

(47:02) - What is “The Ultimate Circular Economy”?

(51:28) - The future of Japanese energy production

(53:44) - The future of Agile Energy X

Links: 

• https://agileenergyx.co.jp/en/  

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

• Subscribe to Substack

Lawrence Lepard, Managing Partner, Equity Management Associates, joins me to discuss the national debt crisis, inflation, possible price suppression of hard assets and the contrasting roles of gold and Bitcoin as sound money. 

Summary

In this conversation, Stephan Livera and Lawrence Lepard delve into pressing economic issues, including the national debt crisis, inflation, and the contrasting roles of gold and Bitcoin as sound money. They discuss the implications of the upcoming US election on economic policies and the market dynamics of gold and Bitcoin. The conversation also touches on the potential for economic suppression and the future predictions for both gold and Bitcoin in light of current financial trends.

Takeaways

• The national debt is accelerating and poses a significant risk.

• Inflation is likely to rise again due to government policies.

• Gold is currently viewed as a safe haven, but Bitcoin is seen as the future of sound money.

• The upcoming US election could have major implications for Bitcoin and economic policies.

• Gold ETFs have been shrinking while Bitcoin ETFs are growing, indicating a generational shift in investment.

• The suppression of gold prices has been a long-standing issue, but Bitcoin may not face the same challenges yet.

• Future predictions suggest Bitcoin could reach $300,000 and gold could hit $5,000 in the next economic crisis.

• The need for sound money is becoming increasingly urgent as the dollar loses value.

• A monetary reset may be necessary to address the current economic challenges.

• Investors should consider diversifying into sound money assets like Bitcoin and gold.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro

(01:09) - US Govt. debt spiraling out of control

(07:17) - Gold’s reaction to crisis

(10:14) - Is inflation inevitable?; Managing interest rates

(18:24) - CPI & asset inflation; Overvaluation of assets

(24:18) - Sponsors

(26:34) - Who is buying the Gold?; Gold vs. Bitcoin 

(31:10) - Sponsors

(33:12) - What does the US election mean for Bitcoin?

(40:10) - What would cutting the size of the state look like?

(45:58) - The significance of Bitcoin advocacy

(48:43) - Gold & Bitcoin price suppression? 

(55:00) - Possible Executive order on Bitcoin in the future?

(57:07) - Will ‘The Next Big Print’ send Bitcoin to $350K?

Links: 

• https://x.com/LawrenceLepard

• https://ema2.com/  

Sponsors:

• Bold Bitcoin

• CoinKite.com (code LIVERA)

• mempool.space/accelerator 

• Nomadcapitalist.com/apply

Stephan Livera links:

• Follow me on X: @stephanlivera

• Subscribe to the podcast

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