In this episode, Co-Founder of StarkWare Eli Ben-Sasson joins the show to explore the philosophical and technical crossroads between Bitcoin and Ethereum. He recounts the early hopes of building zk-tech on Bitcoin, the cultural rift that pushed innovation elsewhere, and why Bitcoin’s potential remains limited without soft forks. Eli argues for a future where Bitcoin’s principles—decentralization, verifiability, and self-custody—can scale globally through new cryptographic tools like ZK proofs and Layer 2s. He reflects on governance, protocol ossification, and the critical need for experimentation to preserve Bitcoin’s revolutionary promise. Enjoy!
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Ledger, the global leader in digital asset security, proudly sponsors Supply Shock. As Bitcoin adoption grows, Ledger celebrates 10 years of securing over 20% of the world’s crypto. Buy a LEDGER™ device now for true self-custody and peace of mind in securing your Bitcoin. Devices are also available in Bitcoin orange. For every device ordered in BTC Orange, we’ll donate $5 to brink.dev. Buy now at https://Ledger.com.
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Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:41) Early Bitcoin Development
(02:48) Privacy & Alternative Cryptocurrencies
(05:56) Bitcoin: The Asset vs. Tech
(10:03) Ledger Ad
(10:51) Bitcoin: The Asset vs. Tech
(13:48) Ethereum's Emergence & Impact
(20:53) Experimentation & Innovation in Crypto
(31:54) The Cultural Impact of Bitcoin's Development
(34:03) Historical Perspective on Bitcoin's Adoption
(34:55) The Necessity of Experimentation in Crypto
(35:54) Bitcoin's Global Product Market Fit
(37:12) Ledger Ad
(37:59) Challenges in Bitcoin's Consensus Process
(39:18) Governance Issues in Decentralized Blockchains
(41:33) The Future of Bitcoin & Global Economics
(43:34) The Role of Decentralization in Blockchain
(54:51) ZK Technology & Its Applications
(01:01:32) Living on Bitcoin
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Disclaimer: Nothing said on Supply Shock is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are opinions, not financial advice. Hosts and guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.
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