On The Brink with Castle Island Walt Smith (Standard Crypto) on VC Investing in Bitcoin (EP.666)
21 snips
Sep 16, 2025 
Walt Smith, a notable investor and thought leader in the Bitcoin and crypto space, shares his insights on the current state of Bitcoin and its ecosystem. He discusses the relationship between Bitcoin and Austrian economics, emphasizing personal sovereignty and the challenges of traditional banking. The conversation highlights Bitcoin's potential in finance, its role in network states, and the complexities of using it as a payment method versus an investment. Smith also examines innovation in Bitcoin technology and the growing interest in Bitcoin ETFs.
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From Pre-Med To Bitcoin
- Walt traces his path from pre-med to economics after a provocative Econ 101 professor challenged his assumptions.
- He credits Grove City College and exposure to Austrian economics for pulling him into Bitcoin and startups.
Bitcoin As Financial Sovereignty
- Walt connects Bitcoin to personal financial sovereignty and control over savings outside Fed protections.
- He frames Bitcoin as a tool for radical personal accountability over net worth.
Money Emerges From Features And Networks
- Walt ties Bitcoin to Austrian and Hayekian ideas about denationalized money and network effects.
- He argues the best money wins by having the right features and broad adoption.
