THE Bitcoin Podcast Fear vs Freedom in Venezuela: Socialism, Hyperinflation & Bitcoin | Mauricio Di Bartolomeo
Jan 19, 2026
Mauricio Di Bartolomeo, a Venezuelan commentator and Bitcoin advocate, shares his firsthand experiences of Venezuela's political and economic collapse. He discusses the devastating impacts of socialism, hyperinflation, and capital controls, emphasizing the destruction of property rights. Mauricio highlights why Bitcoin offers a path to real ownership and financial sovereignty. The conversation also touches on the complexities of removing dictators, public anxiety about freedom, and what lessons can be learned from El Salvador's security turnaround under President Bukele.
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Protest Shooting That Cemented Fear
- Mauricio describes witnessing a protester get shot and die during Venezuela's 2014 crackdowns.
- He uses the story to show how state violence instilled long-lasting fear that suppressed dissent.
Fear Was The Regime's Core Tool
- Mauricio argues Maduro's regime weaponized fear by policing phones and punishing simple online expressions.
- The regime's biggest current fear is Venezuelans losing that conditioned fear and publicly celebrating accountability.
Relative Jailed For Campaign Support
- Mauricio shares how his uncle was jailed for lending vehicles to Maria Corina's campaign.
- He uses the example to show how the regime punished even small acts of political support to deter participation.