In this episode, OG Bitcoiner Alp reflects on Bitcoin’s transformation from a fringe libertarian experiment to a mainstream political tool. They discuss the dilution of early Bitcoin culture, the lingering identity crisis among mid-cycle adopters, the myth of ongoing existential threats, and the shift from cypherpunk ideals to nation-state interests. Alp shares his skepticism of Bitcoin's co-option by U.S. political movements and emphasizes that while Bitcoin is no longer underground, its core functionality and value remain intact. Enjoy!
—
Follow Alp: https://x.com/alpacasw
Follow Rizzo: https://x.com/pete_rizzo_
Follow Supply Shock: https://twitter.com/SupplyShockBW
Follow Blockworks: https://twitter.com/Blockworks_
Supply Shock Telegram: https://t.me/+SpmLg6P_QcgxNDcx
Supply Shock Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/supplyshock
Supply Shock Survey: https://bitcoinhistorynl.beehiiv.com/forms/979475d9-fb4b-4c13-99af-5037dd5718c6
—
Join us at Digital Asset Summit in London October 13-15. Use code SUPPLY100 for $100 OFF
https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-2025-london
—
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.
—
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(06:04) Bitcoin’s Changing Culture
(09:56) Ledger Ad
(10:43) Bitcoin’s Contrarian Mindset
(16:46) Evolution of Bitcoin Upgrades
(20:26) Unpacking Bitcoin Knots
(24:45) Future of Bitcoin & Political Implications
(26:13) Ledger Ad
(27:00) Future of Bitcoin & Political Implications
(28:13) Currency Competition, Tether & Dollarization
(29:55) US Politics & Bitcoin
(32:14) Stablecoins & the Financial System
(36:59) Bitcoin's Role in America's Debt Problem
(48:46) The Cypherpunk Dream & Bitcoin's Future
(52:31) Final Thoughts
—
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.
#Bitcoin #Crypto #SupplyShock
