The Block Reward | Real Stories. Real Impact. All Powered by Real Money - Bitcoin

In this thrilling episode of The Block Reward, host Scott Dedels sits down with Dr. James Wong to explore a radical paradigm: Bitcoin's potential to overhaul healthcare economics. With the rising costs of prescriptions and the daunting prospect of inflation, discover how Dr. Wong's revolutionary Bitcoin rebates through his startup, NiHowdy, offer a lifeline. Tune in to this episode and learn how a Bitcoin standard could lead to groundbreaking business models, affordability in healthcare, and combat the financial crises threatening our purchasing power—only on The Block Reward | Bitcoin For Beginners.James Wong is the founder of NiHowdy, a prescription savings card that offers drug rebates in Bitcoin. He is a licensed pharmacist with experience in managing and operating skilled nursing facilities.Topics Discussed:Fiat economics and its negative impact on healthcare outcomesCurrent economic conditions and the diminishing purchasing powerBitcoin's usefulness in reducing out-of-pocket prescription costsInflated drug costs due to middlemen and complex money distribution, as well as the potential to reduce costs in industries like travel by eliminating middleman commissionsThe lifecycle of drug pricing changes and impact on consumersIndustry pressure on pharmaceutical companies to raise drug pricesInfluence of the inflation reduction act on drug pricing and rebatesPricing discrepancies for medications across countriesImpact of inflated drug costs on US versus other countriesBroken money system and its influence on healthcare sustainabilityTimestamps:04:25 Bitcoin's role in healthcare delivery and challenges.08:36 Middleman charges significant portion of pharmacy revenue.11:30 Congress passes Inflation Reduction Act impacting drug costs.15:05 Government-led grocery price fixing raises economic concerns.17:21 Bitcoin's deflationary design offers long-term potential.23:38 Fiat food degrades due to economic pressures.27:16 Canadians facing suicide and depression linked to economics.28:57 Drug rebates benefit all except the vulnerable.35:12 Different drug prices by country, bitcoin's impact.38:03 Middleman commissions could be replaced by bitcoin.Episode Resources:NiHowdy | WebsiteNiHowdy | YouTubeDr. James Wong | LinkedIn

Step into the world of Bitcoin with Julian Figueroa, a content maven turning heads with his unique twist on cryptocurrency education. In Episode 21 of The Block Reward | Bitcoin For Beginners, Scott chats with Julian, who's notched over 18 million views with his punchy, meme-infused Bitcoin explainer videos. We delve into Julian's journey to a Bitcoin-reliant lifestyle and his knack for crafting bite-sized, potent content that's reshaping the financial landscape. Gear up for a compelling episode that fuses humor and insight with a dash of disruption. It's Bitcoin made viral, and it's an episode you won't want to miss!Julian Figueroa is a filmmaker and host of Kinetic Finance - a multi-platform video channel providing educational and historical explainers on money & markets, as wel as a cutting-edge look into the world of Bitcoin. Since 2020, his content has amassed over 18 million views across YouTube, Twitter, Tik Tok and Instagram. In addition to appreciating the self-sovereign movement that Bitcoin promotes, Julian also shares a passion for off-grid living - consistently learning about and engaging in carpentry, permaculture, and survivalism.Topics Discussed:Julian’s YouTube Channel and Financial StrategiesJulian’s Approach to Bitcoin Content CreationJulian's Videography and his Creative ProcessJulian’s Personal Bitcoin Adoption and LifestyleTechnical Aspects and Tools for Bitcoin TransactionsSociocultural Perspective on Bitcoin AdoptionGlobal Bitcoin Documentary ProjectsTimestamps:08:54 Transition from game design to bitcoin advocacy.13:47 Improving content by integrating humor and memes.17:05 Family business teaches kids about bitcoin through games.19:24 Financial literacy promotes self-sufficiency and informed decisions.22:36 The one collaboration that changed Julian’s video perspective.25:26 Two documentaries about bitcoin you must see.33:01 Transition to using bitcoin for all transactions.37:39 Transitioning from cheaper to high-quality purchases, investment.38:45 Early bitcoin purchases were risky but essential.44:04 Media and internet shape opinions in Canada.45:04 Community influences beliefs more than the internet.Episode Resources:Kinetic Finance | YouTubeKinetic Finance | X (formerly Twitter)Kinetic Finance | TikTok

In this electrifying episode of The Block Reward | Bitcoin For Beginners, Lisa Hough sheds light on bitcoin's potential to reshape the energy sector and our financial future. Discover how “monetizing molecules” can turn excess energy into profit, why energy companies are buzzing about bitcoin, and the pressing issue of energy poverty. Lisa discusses the ties of bitcoin to national security and reveals groundbreaking work at Custodia Bank. Press play and join host Scott Dedels for a future-charged discussion that's about more than just price—it's about power, freedom, and innovation.Lisa's extensive knowledge of Bitcoin mining and leadership qualities have earned her the respect of fellow professionals in the field, and she was recently acknowledged as a leader in Bitcoin by FORBES. With a background as a Commodities Trader, Lisa brings a unique perspective and expertise that drives the convergence of Energy and Bitcoin. Energy companies, high-net-worth individuals (HNWI), wealth managers, family offices, universities, and industry symposiums frequently call on Lisa for guidance. Topics Discussed:The Global Impact of Bitcoin Bitcoin MiningMonetizing Energy: From Natural Gas to BitcoinThe Power of Bitcoin in Energy Efficiency and Poverty ReductionTurning Stranded Energy into Bitcoin GoldReimagining Energy Economics: Bitcoin Mining's PotentialFrom Excess Gas to Bitcoin CashTimestamps:03:19 Global property rights disparities and confiscation risks.10:31 How Bitcoin mining affects natural gas market value.14:12 Innovative energy solutions to alleviate global poverty.18:26 Unused energy is now used to mine bitcoin.22:25 Hoax of oil being sold for dollars.28:36 Government being hacked, national security at risk.31:38 Conflict between energy demand and Berkshire investment. 36:04 Debate on financing and readiness for war.37:19 Bitcoin's impact and divisiveness in US politics.46:52 Understanding that bitcoin goes beyond its price.47:56 Bitcoin = secure ledger, energy-intensive, pushes innovation.Episode Resources:Lisa Hough | WebsiteLisa Hough | X (formerly Twitter)Lisa Hough | LinkedIn

Brace yourself for a financial revolution! Join us on The Block Reward | Bitcoin For Beginners as I sit down with Wall Street veteran and CEO of CYBER HORNET ETFs, Mike Willis. In this episode, Mike unveils the groundbreaking collaboration between Bitcoin and the S&P 500, as his team launches an innovative ETF. Discover the strategy merging S&P 500 stability with Bitcoin's potential, offering investors a traditional pathway into the crypto space. Mike shares his journey from skepticism to staunch "bitcoiner" and delves into the future impact of Bitcoin ETFs on the market. Don't miss this episode—it's a ride through the intersection of Wall Street and Bitcoin! Mike has worked in the Wall Street industry for the past 25 years. He is the CEO, Co-Founder, and Lead Portfolio Manager for CYBER HORNET ETFs. He previously worked for UBS, Paine Webber, & Smith Barney. Mike enjoys turning big ideas into reality.Topics Discussed:Bitcoin ETFs and the S&P 500 CollaborationMaking Bitcoin-Like Returns AccessibleBitcoin's Place on Wall StreetUnderstanding Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)Bitcoin Investment Strategy via ETFsFuturistic Outlook on Bitcoin ETFsThe Regulatory Landscape and Future of Bitcoin ETFsThe Significance of ETFs and Index FundsBitcoin's Market Implications and HyperbitcoinizationChallenges in Bitcoin Ownership and InvestmentBenefits and Risks of Bitcoin in Different FormsTimestamps:07:45 Exploring alternative coins for better investment options.10:15 Stockbrokers held power as the information source.15:38 Bitcoin is the ultimate asset, S&P 500 suffices.22:06 Decentralized bitcoin ownership is a cold storage.24:00 ETFs for beginners, bitcoin for purity enthusiasts.34:05 Bitcoin's strong performance attracts investors to ETFs.36:19 Hyperbitcoinization: Swallowing financial assets, cool conversation, Cyber Hornet ETFs.41:11 Nasdaq reserves ticker symbols for new ETFs.42:17 Gradual shift to spot, high-risk asset class.45:10 Is S&P 500 a safer option than Bitcoin?56:23 Blockrewards facilitates bitcoin integration for Canadian employers.Episode Resources:Cyber Hornet EFTs  | WebsiteMike Willis | LinkedIn

In this episode of The Block Reward, host Scott Dedels sits down with certified financial planner Morgen Rochard to discuss the integration of Bitcoin into financial planning. They explore the evolving perception of Bitcoin, its potential for wealth protection and the impact of inflation on saving strategies. The conversation covers the challenges of educating clients about Bitcoin, the role of financial advisors in a changing digital asset landscape and the implications of Bitcoin ETFs. The speakers highlight the need for ongoing education and adaptation to digital currencies within financial planning and regulatory frameworks. Origin Wealth Advisers LLC is a fee-only, financial planning firm helping bitcoin families live their most fulfilled lives. Origin provides financial advice and does not sell any products. Prior to founding Origin, Morgen started her career trading equity options and later worked for two large private wealth management firms serving ultra high net worth clients. Morgen has two podcasts, “Bitcoin for Advisors” and “Money Owners,” and also wrote the “Personal Finance QuickStart Guide.” In her free time Morgen homeschools her two young children, cooks, and spends time outside with her family. What We Discuss: (00:04:47) The evolving understanding of Bitcoin and the challenges of advising about it. (00:09:19) The changing narrative of inflation and its relevance in financial planning, as well as the difficulties individuals face in saving for retirement, the impact of inflation on financial stability, and the rise of families needing to relocate as a result. (00:24:53) Describing Bitcoin as a savings technology and the challenge of transitioning clients from investment to savings mindset. (00:31:02) Exploration of the potential impact of Bitcoin ETFs on the market, global markets and Bitcoin adoption, as well as the potential role of institutions in promoting these products. (00:37:10) Exploration of the evolving role of Bitcoin in financial planning over the next 15-20 years, including challenges and potential changes. (00:38:44) Discussion of challenges faced by financial planners dealing with clients holding significant amounts of Bitcoin, including storage, risk mitigation and estate planning. Episode Resources: Origin Wealth Advisors | Website Bitcoin Financial Advisors Network | Website Morgen Rochard | X (Formerly Twitter)

In this episode of The Block Reward, Scott Dedels, hosts a conversation with Madex about the detrimental effects of fiat money on the art world and the potential for Bitcoin to enact positive change. They discuss the devaluation of art due to the focus on quick sales and volume over quality, and the manipulation of art prices. Madex criticizes the rise of NFTs as a scam, exploiting people's financial insecurities. They explore the ethical issues surrounding financial scams in the art market and the psychological impact on individuals seeking quick financial wins. The episode also touches on the importance of quality and effort in art production, the need for skilled labor, and the use of Bitcoin to incentivize creativity and craftsmanship. Madex is an artist, mastermind, and revolutionary, as well as the creative director of Bull Bitcoin, the greatest self-custody, Bitcoin-only company on Earth. What We Discuss: (00:03:34) Explanation of how Bull Bitcoin enables Canadians to live without a bank account and transact entirely in Bitcoin. (00:15:30) Bitcoin promotes personal responsibility and accountability which leads to individual sovereignty. (00:18:24) How fiat money devalues art and promotes rushing the creative process which in turn produces low-quality art. (00:22:07) Art's role in reflecting the spirit of society, with a critique of modern art's reflection of culture. (00:23:06) The shift of art as a store of value due to broken money and the resulting impact on demand and creativity. (00:30:16) Discussion on NFTs as scams and the predatory nature of the art world targeting wealth and insecurities. (00:36:49) The influence of financial desperation on investment decisions in art, NFTs, and ICOs, and the exploitation of false hopes. (00:42:03) Discussion on Bitcoin's potential to inspire talented creators to enter the market and produce high-quality work. (00:51:45) The motivation to be part of a change that brings authentic, durable products back into the world and the challenges in finding skilled laborers. (01:00:30) Madex shares insights on planning for the future with Bitcoin and the importance of having a personal plan while being open to Bitcoin's surprises. Episode Resources: Madex | Website Madex | Instagram Madex | X (Formerly Twitter)

In this episode of The Block Reward, host Scott Dedels talks with Peruvian Bull, an expert in global debt markets. They discuss the challenges central banks face with the US dollar's dominance and the growing global debt. Peruvian Bull shares his "Dollar End Game" thesis, examining the implications of the dollar's reserve currency status and the risks of debt expansion. They explore the Federal Reserve's rate hikes, Japan's economic struggles and the abstraction of financial markets. Peruvian Bull also speaks on Bitcoin's potential as a global currency and reserve asset, its adoption, and the role of energy in its growth. Peruvian Bull is a Peruvian-American scholar, researcher, and educator hailing from the Pacific Northwest. Born and raised in Seattle, he attended a local university where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with degrees in Finance, Economics, and Entrepreneurship. He has studied also in South America and plans to complete a Master's degree at the London School of Economics. He currently works at a private equity fintech firm as an analyst and advisor for financial services. What We Discuss: (00:04:40) Peruvian Bull's explanation of the dollar end game thesis, discussing the global reserve system and the potential impact on the US dollar. (00:09:42) Analysis of the growth of indebtedness and its implications for the US, including interest expense and potential consequences. (00:20:35) Explanation of how countries defend their currencies, the impact of carry trades and the challenges they face. (00:21:29) Discussion on Japan's post-World War II economic growth, its 30-year economic malaise, and the Bank of Japan's interventions as well as its attempts to stimulate growth, quantitative easing, and the implementation of yield curve control. (00:35:49) The interconnectedness of global financial systems, the impact of currency crises on various countries and potential solutions. (00:40:36) Discussion on the limitations of manipulating the financial economy, the crash impact on financial derivatives, and the sustainability of the current system. (00:43:32) The layered financial system and the role of the Lightning Network in handling microtransactions. (00:45:23) The importance of Bitcoin adoption and its potential impact on global monetary systems, focusing on energy as a base commodity. Episode Resources: The Dollar Stack | Newsletter Peruvian Bull | YouTube The Dollar Endgame: Hyperinflation Is Coming | Book

In this episode of The Block Reward, host Scott Dedels and guest Kevin Coldiron discuss the complex issue of carry trades and their influence on global financial markets. They explore the role of central bank interventions, the challenges of the current economic climate and the need for a reformed monetary system. Kevin shares his perspective on the potential for a post-carry monetary system and the fragility introduced by excessive carry trades. The conversation also touches upon Bitcoin's relevance in addressing these financial system issues. Kevin Coldiron is a Lecturer in the Financial Engineering Program at U.C. Berkeley’s Haas Business School and host of the Ideas Lab podcast series on the Top Traders Unplugged platform. Prior to joining the Haas faculty he co-founded Algert Coldiron Investors (ACI), a San Francisco-based quantitative hedge fund. He previously headed the hedge fund business at Barclays Global Investors in London and has also worked as a currency market analyst at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Kevin has an MBA from London Business School and a BSc in Finance from the Pennsylvania State University. Kevin is co-author with Tim and Jamie Lee of The Rise Of Carry which was a top-selling investment book on Amazon and awarded the 2020 Globie for Globalization Book of the Year. He has been featured on top podcasts such as Bloomberg’s OddLots and Hidden Forces. He publishes a one-page newsletter called The Ideas Lab: New Ways To Understand Global Markets, which summarizes his writings, interviews and research. His regular articles for Forbes can be found at: Kevin Coldiron's Forbes Articles. What We Discuss: (00:03:55) What does the term "carry trading" mean, and what is the impact on the global financial system? (00:15:12) The impact central bank interventions have on carry trading. (00:26:11) How carry trades increase liquidity in financial markets and promote the money-ness of various assets. (00:29:43) The interconnectedness of different central banks and the impact on global markets. (00:34:29) The yen carry trade, its impact on the Japanese currency and the challenges faced by the Bank of Japan. (00:42:29) The necessity and structure of central banking in the modern world and the need for a lender of last resort. (00:48:09) The potential role Bitcoin has to be a solution to the challenges posed by central banking. (00:53:08) The relationship between inflation, asset prices and the sustainability of the current economic system. (00:55:31) Exploring the potential future of the monetary system, the role of central banks and the challenges in designing a post-carry monetary system. Episode Resources: Kevin Coldiron | Newsletter The Rise of Carry | Website Ideas Lab | Podcast

In this podcast episode of The Block Reward, Scott chats with Gen Z economics student, Zac Guignard, to discuss Zac's perspective on Bitcoin. They delve into how Bitcoin is perceived by young people, its potential to solve societal problems and its political implications. Zac shares his journey into Bitcoin and they discuss the importance of education in understanding Bitcoin, the skepticism from faculty members and the potential of Bitcoin to bring about a sustainable energy revolution. Zac helps steer education for Theya Bitcoin, a Y Combinator backed startup providing the world's simplest #bitcoin multisig and self-custody service. He is also a student of Economics at the University of Victoria, and a prolific writer with his own publication "The Bitconomist” on Substack exploring the economic, social, and environmental impacts of Bitcoin. What We Discuss: (00:00:00) Bitcoin is seen as money and a solution to the problems faced by society, such as backward systems. (00:00:32) Young people, like university students, perceive and engage with Bitcoin differently from older generations. (00:07:27) The average university student is open-minded and curious about Bitcoin, but education and awareness are needed to clear misconceptions and provide resources. (00:10:30) How Bitcoin is perceived as politically neutral, and its potential political implications. (00:11:28) Bitcoin has led to a shift in perspective, with individuals taking matters into their own hands rather than relying on elected officials. (00:13:31) Insights into the skepticism and lack of understanding among economics professors regarding Bitcoin, plus the potential impact of Bitcoin on traditional economic theories. (00:21:45) Zac discusses how he approaches Bitcoin conversations with his peers, focusing on meeting people where they're at and addressing the global challenges they care about. (00:23:18) How Bitcoin can address the lack of optimism about the future by bringing about systemic change and creating a new monetary order. (00:26:11) The misconception that Bitcoin is bad for the environment and its ability to promote a sustainable energy revolution and mitigate emissions. (00:33:24) Bitcoin's potential to absorb value from inflated assets like real estate and stocks due to its superior store of value characteristics. (00:35:59) Zac's journey of getting involved in the Bitcoin industry through his passion for Bitcoin and writing, leading to his role in a Bitcoin company. (00:38:33) A simple explanation of multi-sig wallets, their enhanced security compared to single-signature wallets, and the concept of collaborative custody. (00:44:07) The Bitcoin club on campus and the importance of young people taking initiative in the Bitcoin space. (00:45:04) Highlighting the growth and opportunities in the Bitcoin industry for young people interested in finance, economics and technology. Episode Resources: Zac Guignard | Website Zac Guignard | Twitter

In this podcast episode, Scott chats with Adam Soltys & Cole Goodwin from Coinos, a Vancouver-based company. Adam and Cole discuss their mission to expand the use of Bitcoin and the Lightning Network to businesses globally. They share their individual journeys into Bitcoin and how they teamed up to help businesses accept Bitcoin payments. They discuss the benefits of Bitcoin, the functionality of the Lightning Network, and their strategy for convincing businesses to adopt Bitcoin. Adam is a software engineer who believes that the adoption of sound money will drive global prosperity. He lives in North Vancouver with his wife, daughter and son. Cole is a driven individual with a passion for freedom. He came across Bitcoin in 2016 and studied it in depth. Now he wants to introduce the Lightning Network to as many users as possible. What We Discuss: (00:00:27) Discussion about the Lightning Network, its benefits for businesses and its role in expanding Bitcoin adoption worldwide. (00:01:06) Scott's personal experience witnessing a Lightning transaction and the impact it had on his understanding of Bitcoin's innovation and potential. (00:02:20) Adam and Cole share their backgrounds, how they became involved with Coinos, and their goal of expanding the Lightning Network to businesses globally. (00:11:14) How Bitcoin operates on the blockchain and why it is trackable. (00:13:38) What is the Lightning Network? What is the Lightning Network's purpose in making Bitcoin faster and cheaper for transactions? (00:18:02) Adam and Cole discuss their transition from an early interest in Bitcoin to becoming leaders in Lightning Network adoption. (00:21:27) How they approach businesses, guaranteeing more sales by accepting bitcoin, and the steps involved in signing them up. (00:22:56) The setup process for businesses, including providing a QR code, a small printer, and integrating with existing systems like tablets or Shopify. (00:26:08) Common concerns from businesses, such as how to convert Bitcoin to fiat currency and the volatility of Bitcoin. (00:31:57) How the Lightning Network can convert businesses to accept Bitcoin and the potential benefits of avoiding inflation and taxation. (00:33:41) How a group in Brazil set up over 200 businesses with Bitcoin accounts and promoted the use of Bitcoin for everyday transactions. (00:36:50) Highlighting the active Bitcoin community in Vancouver, including regular meetups, events and efforts to promote Bitcoin adoption among merchants and consumers. (00:43:19) Resources for learning about the Lightning Network. (00:45:36) The benefits and process of running a Lightning Node, including taking control of Bitcoin payments and avoiding reliance on third-party payment providers. (00:49:04) The exponential growth of the Lightning Network, its ability to handle a high number of transactions per second and its potential to become as popular as Bitcoin itself. (00:52:43) The need for slow and steady growth of Bitcoin to scale and handle the potential influx of users. (00:53:37) The street videos that Cole is doing where he approaches strangers and asks them about Bitcoin. They discuss how the idea started and the entertaining nature of the videos. Episode Resources: Coinos | Website Coinos Wallet | Twitter