The Bitcoin Standard Podcast

Saifedean Ammous, author of The Bitcoin Standard, joins Ben Wehrman to discuss how Bitcoin can help defund global warfare, drawing from his personal journey from Palestine to a notable economics advocate. They delve into the transformative power of Bitcoin on financial systems and critique central banking practices that fuel inflation and moral decay. Saifedean argues that a shift to Bitcoin could lead to more ethical economic behavior and reduce warfare by imposing financial constraints on government actions.

Robert Breedlove, an entrepreneur and freedom maximalist, engages in a compelling dialogue on the intersections of Austrian economics, morality, and civilization at the Bitcoin Las Vegas 2025 conference. They explore time preference's role in decision-making and the importance of private property rights in sustaining societal integrity. Breedlove discusses the devastating impacts of hyperinflation on trust and how Bitcoin could potentially revive moral frameworks. The dynamic contrasts between Austrian and Keynesian economics are also examined, highlighting the narrative conflicts within modern economic thought.

Dive into the potential of Tether in shaping the future of the U.S. dollar and public debt. Examine how Tether could pivot from a dollar-backed stablecoin to one backed by Bitcoin. Discover the institutional shift in Bitcoin as Wall Street firms embrace it, alongside the evolution of Bitcoin culture from grassroots to mainstream. Reflect on wealth inequality and how Bitcoin’s divisibility can influence economic transactions. An insightful discussion that tackles the psychological barriers to Bitcoin adoption and the impact on future monetary systems.

Khalil Sayegh, founder of the Agora Initiative, shares his compelling insights as a Gazan deeply affected by the ongoing conflict. He discusses the personal toll of violence and loss, shedding light on generational trauma within Palestinian families. The podcast delves into the historical injustices faced by Palestinians since 1948, highlights the misrepresentation of Christian narratives in U.S. foreign policy, and critiques the roles of U.S. military aid in the Israeli-Palestinian dynamic. Sayegh also emphasizes the importance of education in fostering understanding and hope amid turmoil.

Lyn Alden, author of Broken Money and expert in macroeconomic analysis, dives into the current U.S. fiscal situation and the relevance of Bitcoin. She highlights the lasting impact of pandemic-era deficits and their inflationary effects. The discussion also covers rising interest rates and their implications for the aging population's economic influence. Alden examines Tether's role in global finance and Bitcoin's potential as an alternative currency amidst geopolitical tensions, urging a reevaluation of traditional economic strategies.

Jack Mallers, CEO of Strike and XXI, is on a mission to make Bitcoin financial services accessible to everyone while promoting ethical principles in startups. He discusses Bitcoin's latest price trends, innovative lending services, and the impressive organic growth of his company without heavy marketing. Jack emphasizes the importance of profitability and customer feedback in a venture-driven world. He also explores Tether's role as a stable alternative in unbanked markets, the necessity of financial innovations, and Bitcoin's potential to reshape the global monetary landscape.

Ricardo Salinas Pliego, a Mexican billionaire and staunch advocate for Bitcoin, joins Pascal Hügli, a Swiss economist and crypto journalist, to discuss their new book, The Bitcoin Enlightenment. They delve into the pitfalls of fiat currency and inflated economic systems, highlighting the history of sound money. The conversation also explores how Bitcoin empowers individuals, the detrimental effects of the bond market, and the need for financial education in navigating today’s monetary landscape. Their insights promise to enlighten and inspire anyone curious about the future of finance.

Odey Qemal, Founder of Zawda—a Bitcoin startup in the Middle East—shares his personal journey through Lebanon’s hyperinflation and how Bitcoin transformed his life. He discusses the struggles of navigating financial crises and the societal barriers to adopting decentralized finance. Odey highlights the potential of Bitcoin-backed loans for empowering small businesses and provides insight into sustainable growth strategies in the Bitcoin sector. He also emphasizes the need for education and collaboration in expanding Bitcoin adoption across the region.

Aleks Svetski, author of 'The Bushido of Bitcoin' and entrepreneur, dives into the ethical implications of Bitcoin wealth, likening it to the samurai's moral code. He explores how Bitcoin can shape tomorrow's leaders while warning against the pitfalls of wealth excess. Svetski discusses alternative healthcare solutions grounded in Bitcoin philosophy and the evolving nature of ownership in this new economy. Finally, he engages in a thought-provoking analysis of freedom, responsibility, and governance, advocating for a society built on virtue.

Tom DiLorenzo, President of the Mises Institute and an economist known for his critiques of government overreach, delves into intriguing topics. He challenges popular narratives around antitrust laws and the so-called 'robber barons,' suggesting government intervention isn’t necessary to break up monopolies. DiLorenzo also critiques the Federal Reserve and historical perspectives on the 2008 financial crisis, urging listeners to question accepted accounts. He emphasizes the Mises Institute's mission to promote Austrian economics and the importance of understanding ethics in economic policies.