
The Block Reward | Real Stories. Real Impact. All Powered by Real Money - Bitcoin
Welcome to The Block Reward Podcast, where real stories meet real impact, all powered by real money—Bitcoin. Each week, we dive into the transformative world of Bitcoin through in-depth interviews with thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers shaping the future of decentralized finance.
Your host, Scott Dedels, also shares solo episodes where he reflects on his journey as a conscious CEO, offering insights into leadership, personal growth, and the evolving role of Bitcoin in creating a more intentional and purpose-driven economy.
Whether you're a seasoned Bitcoiner or just starting to explore its potential, The Block Reward Podcast delivers thought-provoking conversations and actionable takeaways to inspire your own financial freedom and conscious living.
Join us as we uncover the stories and strategies that fuel the Bitcoin revolution—one block at a time.
New episodes released every Tuesday!
Latest episodes

Dec 3, 2024 • 51min
62: Ryan Macleod ON: The Synergy Of Bitcoin Mining and Nuclear Power
Ryan MacLeod is a nuclear industry professional and Bitcoin enthusiast operating under the handle "Nuclear Bitcoiner."In this episode, you're going to learn how nuclear power can address energy needs for bitcoin mining, why combining bitcoin mining with nuclear energy is beneficial for power grids, the challenges and opportunities of integrating nuclear and bitcoin technologies, what countries like Canada and China are doing with nuclear development, and how bitcoin mining is transforming waste energy into value across industries.Ryan MacLeod is an experienced Laboratory Technologist at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, specializing in analytical and process chemistry. A graduate of Cambrian College, he oversees gas analysis mass spectroscopy facilities focused on reactor safety and materials research.In 2021, Ryan led a team that won the North American Young Generation in Nuclear - Innovation 4 Nuclear contest with a proposal to integrate Proof-of-Work Digital Asset Mining into Canada’s Small Modular Reactor Action Plan. He has since developed expertise in monetary systems and electrical infrastructure.Ryan aims to deepen his understanding of electrical systems to support the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and build Proof-of-Work infrastructure in Canada and beyond, positioning himself at the intersection of nuclear energy and digital technology. Timestamps:[04:14] How nuclear power complements bitcoin mining. [05:52] The current state of nuclear power and its public perception. [07:47] Challenges faced by the nuclear industry. [08:26] Why nuclear power is the densest energy source. [10:48] Challenges of overbuilding power grids. [11:58] How nuclear power supports baseload generation. [13:14] Synergy between Bitcoin mining and nuclear power. [15:42] Bitcoin miners monetizing underused hydroelectric power. [16:21] Using Bitcoin miners for district heating projects. [18:55] How Bitcoin enables global energy monetization. [19:44] Turning agricultural waste into Bitcoin. [21:05] BRICS nations building hash rate to challenge SWIFT. [23:33] Long-term impacts of bureaucracy on nuclear projects. [24:31] How fiat money impacts nuclear project financing. [26:18] Positive outcomes of Canada’s reactor refurbishments. [27:13] Small modular reactors and their applications. [28:12] The potential for using weapons-grade uranium as fuel. [30:41] How incentives impact nuclear and bitcoin game theory. [33:03] Growth of bitcoin hash rate and future predictions. [35:17] Why AI’s energy needs intersect with Bitcoin and nuclear. [36:59] Challenges of data centers using nuclear energy off-grid. [38:53] How Bitcoin miners participate in grid stabilization. [40:13] Conflict between Bitcoin miners and peaker plants. [42:10] Changing behaviours with Bitcoin’s monetary system. [44:44] Comparing fiat systems to Bitcoin’s efficiency. Check out Ryan’s X and LinkedIn.Resources Mentioned:BTC Sessions by Ben Perrin | Spotify or Apple PodcastsMr. Obnoxious by Peter McCormack | Spotify or Apple PodcastsMax Keiser | XJason Lowery | XFind More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn

Nov 26, 2024 • 40min
61: Cory Timmons ON: The Social Layer of Bitcoin
In this discussion, Cory Timmons, an economist and host of the Ottawa Bitcoin meetup group, shares his passion for building the Bitcoin community. He emphasizes the transformative power of in-person meetups during the pandemic, revealing how they deepen understanding and engagement with Bitcoin. Cory discusses Canada's vibrant Bitcoin culture, the significance of local meetups for newcomers, and the vital role these connections play in education. He also reflects on memorable experiences from conferences and the unique dynamics of face-to-face Bitcoin interactions.

Nov 19, 2024 • 48min
60: BJ Dichter ON: Honking for Freedom
BJ Dichter is a prominent Canadian Bitcoiner and author.In this episode, you're going to learn how BJ’s experience during the 2022 Ottawa Trucker Convoy protest changed his views on financial freedom, why he believes Bitcoin is essential in today’s world, the challenges he faced with government intervention and why he sees Bitcoin as a tool for safeguarding personal rights. You'll also hear about the practical steps BJ recommends for protecting your assets in uncertain times and what he learned about the power of decentralized finance during one of Canada’s most turbulent political events.BJ Dichter is the author of “Honking For Freedom” and a Podcaster, Speaker, Journalist, 🇨🇦 Trucker Convoy Spokesperson & Media Strategist.Timestamps:[04:51] Why BJ became interested in Bitcoin [05:17] The insurance policy of uncensorable money [06:35] How BJ got involved in politics [08:09] Realizing the true value of Bitcoin during the convoy [09:06] BJ's role in fundraising for the convoy [10:22] The use of Bitcoin to support the convoy [11:49] Challenges with GoFundMe and GiveSendGo [12:25] Ontario government’s injunction on donations [13:22] How Bitcoin donations were managed [14:57] The fear of using Bitcoin among convoy organizers [15:17] Misconceptions about Bitcoin and criminal activity [16:05] Lessons learned from dealing with authorities [17:07] The long-term implications of Bitcoin [17:51] Comparing Bitcoin to the printing press [18:51] How BJ’s brother, a financial analyst, views Bitcoin [19:31] BJ’s emotional journey to understanding Bitcoin [20:03] How the government misunderstood Bitcoin [20:58] Confiscation of Bitcoin during the protest [21:47] Lessons learned about securing Bitcoin [22:03] Importance of having a lawyer when dealing with Bitcoin [23:17] Advice on protecting yourself legally with Bitcoin [23:45] Government escalation during the convoy protest [24:09] How communication with authorities could have de-escalated tensions [25:09] BJ's book 'Honking for Freedom' and its purpose [26:46] Dr. Jordan Peterson’s endorsement of BJ’s book [28:05] How the protest changed BJ’s view on Bitcoin’s value [28:37] Why Bitcoin is a vital tool in uncertain times [29:16] BJ’s family history and why financial freedom matters [30:22] The role of Bitcoin in escaping oppressive regimes [31:40] Currency debasement as a universal problem [32:23] How inflation impacts everyday people [33:19] Inflation triggering fear and curiosity in the public [34:15] The challenge of educating people about Bitcoin [35:03] Using empathy to introduce new people to Bitcoin [36:10] The rise in financial awareness post-2020 [37:32] How BJ’s love of cars revealed inflation issues early [38:42] Using personal interests to understand economics [39:12] Empathy as a tool for Bitcoin adoption [40:00] How Bitcoin can help those in developing countries [40:26] BJ’s advice for storing and saving wealth [41:28] Why BJ prefers Substack over Twitter [42:01] How BJ’s book aims to unite people [43:08] The concept of Enlightenment 2.0 [43:47] How BJ introduced Bitcoin to a research professor [44:29] Michael J. Saylor’s influence on understanding Bitcoin [45:08] How every generation faces perceived turmoil [45:51] Finding unity in real-life conversations [46:17] The positive future BJ envisions with Bitcoin BJ Dichter can be found on X or through Honking for Freedom’s Substack or Website.Resources Mentioned:The Money Masters Documentary by William T. Still | YouTubeConnections Series by James Burke | YouTubeAndreas Antonopoulos | YouTubeExplaining Postmodernism by Stephen Hicks | Book or AudiobookDr. Jordan Peterson | WebsiteFind More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn

Nov 14, 2024 • 1h 4min
59: Michael Dunworth ON: Bitcoin is a Cheat Code
In this episode, you're going to learn why Michael sees Bitcoin as a “cheat code” for fixing global financial systems, the surprising role of energy grids in Bitcoin mining, why companies might face legal pressure if they don’t adopt Bitcoin, how political factors are driving institutional interest in Bitcoin and why Michael believes that embracing Bitcoin could be the fastest way for companies to outperform their competition.Michael Dunworth is a Bitcoin enthusiast and Co-Founder and former CEO of Wyre Payments.Timestamps:[00:04] Why Bitcoin is like a cheat code for money problems [01:34] BlackRock and Microsoft’s Bitcoin moves [02:45] The influence of politics on Bitcoin adoption [03:58] Trump’s proposal on crypto taxation [05:04] MicroStrategy’s massive Bitcoin buying plans [06:16] Understanding the role of ego in executive decisions [07:21] Why CEOs hesitate to follow Bitcoin strategies [08:45] Bitcoin as the lazy path to wealth [11:10] Texas is paying miners to stabilize the energy grid [12:23] Iran’s strategy to mine Bitcoin for national gain [13:36] The importance of accumulating commodities like Bitcoin [14:52] How inflation pushes people into risky investments [16:14] Avoiding financial decisions during chaotic times [17:35] Bitcoin’s impact on mental clarity and decision-making [18:58] Bitcoin’s effect on corporate governance [20:15] CEOs resisting change due to pride and fear [21:45] Why companies may face lawsuits for not adopting Bitcoin [23:04] The concept of a “wartime CEO” for tough times [24:35] Michael J. Saylor’s debt strategy to accumulate Bitcoin [26:02] How predictable Bitcoin’s value is long-term [27:20] The difference between Bitcoin and fiat currency [28:45] Mental health benefits of holding Bitcoin [30:08] Bitcoin’s role in simplifying your financial life [31:29] Setting and achieving long-term accumulation goals [32:50] Why Bitcoin is a powerful recruiting tool [34:12] The challenges legacy companies face with Bitcoin [35:30] Bitcoin’s predictable cycles and their impact [36:48] How Bitcoin resists change and external pressure [38:10] Why change is crucial for corporate survival [39:27] How Bitcoin forces businesses to rethink strategies [41:00] The importance of unity and collaboration [42:26] Inflation’s impact on everyday spending habits [43:50] Bitcoin as a safeguard against economic instability [45:12] Storing time and energy through Bitcoin [46:30] Long-term planning with predictable money [47:55] Resistance to adopting new financial technologies [49:22] Lessons learned from Michael J. Saylor’s success [50:48] Empowering people and businesses with Bitcoin [52:10] Why those who adapt will thrive [53:39] The psychology behind old vs. young investors [55:04] The power of Bitcoin in building future wealth [56:32] How Bitcoin changes your perspective on money [57:59] Using Bitcoin to protect against inflation [59:25] Planning your financial future with Bitcoin [01:00:53] Why Bitcoin adoption is inevitable [01:02:14] The impact of social proof on Bitcoin adoption [01:03:37] Future predictions for Bitcoin and global markets [01:04:50] Why the world is moving towards a Bitcoin standard [01:06:20] How Bitcoin transforms personal finance strategies [01:07:44] Final thoughts on the future of money Connect with Michael Dunworth on X.Resources Mentioned:Michael J. Saylor | WebsiteFind More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn

Nov 5, 2024 • 44min
58: Christian Ander ON: Bitcoin is Freedom Tech
In this episode, you're going to learn the remarkable story of how Bitcoin changed Christian’s life in 2011, the challenges of running a Bitcoin exchange in Sweden, the influence the Wallenberg family had on Sweden's financial system, the importance of privacy in today’s geopolitical landscape and why Christian believes Bitcoin is crucial for financial freedom.Christian Ander is the Founder and CEO of Goobit, an industry-leading crypto services company dedicated to developing innovative solutions that bridge the gap between the traditional financial system and the world of cryptocurrencies. Timestamps:[01:22] Christian Ander’s journey into Bitcoin in 2011 [04:51] Why Swedish banks dislike Bitcoin [06:46] The Wallenberg family’s influence on Sweden’s financial system [11:33] How Sweden's cheap energy benefits Bitcoin miners [16:23] Global trends in restricting cash transactions [19:29] Bitcoin’s transparency and privacy challenges [24:13] Anti-money laundering laws and their true purpose [31:36] Historic inflation and currency devaluation [36:19] Quantum computing and its potential threat to Bitcoin [40:41] Bitcoin’s role in securing financial freedomFollow Christian on X and visit the BTCX website.Find More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn

Oct 29, 2024 • 54min
57: Bob Burnett ON: Blockspace Matters
In this enlightening discussion, Bob Burnett, Founder and CEO of Barefoot Mining, shares his vast expertise in Bitcoin and technology. He argues that the scarcity of blockspace is just as crucial as Bitcoin itself. Bob explores how nation-states might influence Bitcoin mining and its implications for individual users. He emphasizes the need for decentralization in computing and its role in Bitcoin's evolution. Additionally, he discusses how rising blockspace fees could affect transaction dynamics, setting the stage for Bitcoin's future position.

Oct 22, 2024 • 51min
56: Mitchell Askew ON: The Role of Global Liquidity in Bitcoin's Value
Mitchell Askew is the lead analyst at Blockware, a vertically integrated Bitcoin mining company.In this episode, you're going to learn how Bitcoin's halving affects its price, why weaker Bitcoin miners are struggling and leaving the industry, what the difficulty adjustment means for Bitcoin mining, why Mitchell believes Bitcoin is the best way to protect against inflation and how the ongoing expansion of fiat money impacts global markets.Mitchell Askew is the Head Analyst at Blockware and the author of "The Conservative Case for Bitcoin." Mitch has spent the past three years working full-time in the Bitcoin industry. His work focuses on content creation, marketing, and analyzing the Bitcoin & Bitcoin Mining ecosystems.Timestamps:[03:34] How Bitcoin halving impacts price[06:07] Why weaker Bitcoin miners struggle[17:40] How Bitcoin is becoming more widely distributed[19:32] The relationship between global liquidity and bitcoin[23:29] Why Bitcoin is a better choice than traditional assets[36:00] Measuring wealth in Bitcoin vs local currencies[41:09] Fiat money and its impact on family structures[49:36] Where to find more of Mitchell’s workConnect with Mitch on X and get your copy of his book, The Conservative Case for Bitcoin.Find More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn

Oct 15, 2024 • 46min
55: Rajat Soni ON: De-Risk Your Portfolio with Bitcoin
In this episode, Scott interviews Rajat Soni, a chartered financial analyst and Bitcoin enthusiast. Rajat sheds light on Bitcoin's potential to revolutionize wealth preservation and investments. He shares his insights on handling Bitcoin’s volatility, mitigating risks, and the future of various asset classes. Learn how Bitcoin compares to traditional financial tools and why understanding it could be crucial for your financial future. Tune in to grasp why Bitcoin might hit unprecedented highs and what separates it from stocks and real estate.A Bitcoiner with 10+ years of experience in traditional finance, Rajat now focuses his time and energy educating on Bitcoin primarily through his Substack and YouTube channels.Timestamps:5:30 Understand the difference between saving and investing.10:26 Why traditional real estate investments carry more risk today.16:21 Learn how to avoid Bitcoin's most common investment mistakes.22:34 How Bitcoin compares to traditional assets like stocks and real estate.27:40 The risks of lending Bitcoin on exchanges and why you should avoid it.33:25 Why borrowing against Bitcoin might not be the best strategy.38:54 Sell a little Bitcoin when needed, don’t rely on lending.Get in touch with Rajat through X or his YouTube channel.Find More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn

Oct 8, 2024 • 50min
54: Ryan Verra ON: Bitcoin is Spiritual
In this episode, Scott interviews Ryan Verra, a resident of Bitcoin Jungle in Costa Rica and a facilitator of human consciousness through plant medicine. Ryan brings a unique perspective, exploring the spiritual and transformative potential of Bitcoin. He delves into how Bitcoin's stability and decentralization offer financial integrity and personal empowerment. This conversation will shift your views on money and consciousness, providing deep insights into why Bitcoin might just be the catalyst for a global awakening. Don't miss Ryan's compelling ideas that connect finance, spirituality, and future societal transformations.Ryan Verra is a professional race car driver and extreme sport athlete who has expanded his expertise into brain-training, learning techniques and plant medicine. Over the past decade, he has worked with various indigenous tribes and plant-based medicines, such as Iboga, Ayahuasca and Psilocybin, developing protocols for neurogenesis and healing. His unique insights into Psilocybin earned him a speaking spot at Wonderland, the largest psychedelic conference in North America, where his ideas sparked significant controversy. Ryan now coaches high-level professionals and athletes, helping them enhance their mental health, productivity and consciousness through specialized plant medicine protocols.Timestamps:4:45 Understanding how Bitcoin can preserve wealth in an inflating world.12:14 How plant medicine and Bitcoin are connected in consciousness.18:13 Bitcoin as a spiritual tool to align with personal energy and choices.24:17 The benefits of investing in Bitcoin for future generations.32:05 How to stay patient and avoid distractions in the Bitcoin journey.38:42 Taking responsibility for your Bitcoin and holding your own keys.45:10 Building personal responsibility through self-sovereignty tools like Bitcoin.To connect with Ryan check out the Source Code’s Website.Find More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn

Oct 1, 2024 • 44min
53: Ian Major ON: The Future of Customer Rewards
In this episode, Scott interviews Ian Major, co-founder of Joltz and a pioneer in Bitcoin-based loyalty programs. Ian dives into the intricacies of using the lightning network for fast, low-fee transactions and contrasts self-custodial and custodial solutions. He shares insights on why most businesses hesitate to adopt Bitcoin rewards and reveals groundbreaking developments in their wallet technology. Tune in to explore how Joltz is empowering financial self-sovereignty and transforming customer loyalty programs with Bitcoin.Ian is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Joltz, a Bitcoin infrastructure company with a focus on Lightning and Taproot Assets. Prior to Joltz, Ian sold and delivered enterprise analytics software to the largest companies across North America, the Middle East, and Africa, including Walmart and Emirates Airlines. Ian is also the Creator of the All Things Bitcoin YouTube channel and has helped nearly half a million people learn about Bitcoin.Timestamps:7:22 Why Bitcoin rewards outperform traditional loyalty programs. 13:49 How stablecoins enhance Bitcoin adoption for mainstream businesses. 19:46 Steps to create a Bitcoin rewards program for small businesses. 24:33 How taproot assets increase flexibility in Bitcoin rewards systems. 28:54 Why businesses should embrace Bitcoin to attract younger customers. 34:12 Solutions for improving self-custodial Bitcoin payment systems. 39:46 How to build a circular economy using Bitcoin rewards.Check out Joltz and follow Ian on X.Resources Mentioned:Fold App | WebsiteLolli | WebsiteBlockstream | WebsiteLightning Labs | WebsiteRiver Financial Report: The Lightning Network | ArticleFind More From Scott:Scott Dedels | XBlock Rewards | InstagramBlock Rewards | YouTubeBlock Rewards | TikTokBlock Rewards | WebsiteBlock Rewards | LinkedIn