Let Ethereum Cook: The Foundation’s Push for ZK, Privacy, and Tokenization

Nov 12, 2025

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James Smith is Head of Ecosystem at the Ethereum Foundation.

In this episode, we unpack everything Ethereum is building right now, some of it driven by initiatives at the Ethereum Foundation. From breakthroughs in zk technology and privacy to a growing wave of real-world asset tokenization poised to bring trillions onchain, this conversation highlights why we remain laser-focused on Ethereum. Our guest, James, is among the best at bridging the gap between builders and listeners, breaking down what’s being built across the Ethereum ecosystem in simple, relatable terms.

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Timestamps

0:00 - Intro
6:37 - James's background
10:06 - Philosophical differences that make Ethereum different
18:37 - Ethereum Foundation’s new focus vs legacy EF
24:31 - The incentives just make sense on Ethereum
27:55 - Sponsor break
29:11 - “The internet has no CEO," understanding decentralization
37:14 - All the ways Ethereum is cooking
39:30 - Building products for Wall St’s backend
40:24 - Why zk is an enormous breakthrough
44:20 - Sponsor break
45:40 - Privacy will be a feature for many on Ethereum
50:33 - Tokenization of RWAs on Ethereum is up only
52:22 - What the Fusaka upgrade means for all of us
54:12 - Future surprises coming from EF
57:40 - The most misunderstood thing about the EF
58:58 - Closing

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🔗 Guest Links 🔗

► EF website: https://ethereum.foundation/
► EF on X: https://x.com/ethereumfndn
► James Smith on X: https://x.com/james_gaps

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All opinions expressed by hosts and podcast guests are solely their own opinions. Podcast guests and hosts may have positions in the assets or other matters discussed in this podcast. DeFi Dad and Nomatic both are long term ETH holders. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a basis for investment decisions. Do your own research. This is not a recommendation or endorsement to buy any token(s) related to any platform(s) discussed.