The Brutal Truth about Government Bitcoin Adoption No One Wants to Hear

Dec 23, 2025

In this engaging discussion, John Dennehy, the founder of My First Bitcoin and a global Bitcoin educator, explores the dark side of government Bitcoin adoption, arguing it may threaten true freedom. He emphasizes grassroots education as vital for real Bitcoin empowerment, while criticizing the IMF's oppressive practices. John shares his personal journey, including sobering lessons from his arrests and insights from El Salvador's Bitcoin experiment, highlighting self-custody as key to individual sovereignty and urging listeners to take proactive steps toward financial liberation.

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INSIGHT

Government Adoption Isn’t A Guaranteed Win

Government or corporate adoption alone risks co-opting Bitcoin and removing freedom benefits.
Grassroots initiatives and alternatives are required to preserve self-custody and true decentralization.

ADVICE

Teach By Doing: Give Newcomers Sats

Do teach people and let them use Bitcoin to make the concept click.
Walk newcomers through their first transaction and show permissionless, private value transfer.

INSIGHT

Money, Power, And Time Preference

Controlling your money equates to controlling your power and future options.
Bitcoin's predictability reduces uncertainty and encourages long-term planning and social trust.

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