
Empire
Empire features interviews with top crypto founders to get the real stories that aren’t shared elsewhere. Empire is your look behind the curtain of the crypto industry. We release two episodes per week: guest interviews on Monday and a weekly roundup on Friday.
Latest episodes

Jun 21, 2025 • 1h 3min
Supra’s Vision For Automatic DeFi aka AutoFi Featuring Joshua Tobkin
Joshua Tobkin, Co-founder and CEO of Supra, dives into the fascinating world of oracles and automation in blockchain. He reveals how Supra is revolutionizing decentralized finance with its AI-driven AutoFi system. Tobkin discusses the integration of AI and blockchain, emphasizing the need for rapid data updates to ensure DeFi stability. He also introduces the concept of a 'super treasury' for innovative treasury management, aiming for community-focused financial strategies. Tune in for insights on the future of blockchain and the importance of innovative project engagement!

Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 18min
Token Transparency And The Hot Ball of Money (Hyperliquid/Circle) | Weekly Roundup
Yano and Santi dive into the newly launched Token Transparency framework, emphasizing the need for clear investing practices. They discuss Hyperliquid's game-changing potential and unpack the complexities of cryptocurrency market dynamics. The conversation highlights Tron's ambitious plans to go public and the crucial role of stablecoins in shaping market strategies. They also explore innovative hiring practices using AI and wrap up with insights on their recent reading adventures and upcoming events.

22 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 8min
Introducing The Token Transparency Framework With Dan Smith, Louis T and Felipe Montealegre
Join Dan Smith, Head of Data at Blockworks Research, Felipe Montealegre, CIO of Theia Research, and Louis T, Investment Partner at L1D, as they unveil the groundbreaking Token Transparency Framework. They dive into how this framework aims to enhance trust in the crypto market, discussing lemon markets and the risk premiums of tokens versus traditional assets. Insightful anecdotes, including token horror stories and real-world implications, highlight the pressing need for transparency and accountability in the ever-evolving crypto landscape.

Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 19min
The State Of Crypto Derivatives With Shiliang Tang and Josh Lim
Join Josh Lim, Co-founder of Arbelos and Head of Strategy at FalconX, and Shiliang Tang, Co-founder of Arbelos and Head of Trading at FalconX, as they dive into the intriguing world of crypto derivatives. They discuss the significant lessons learned from the chaotic 2022 crypto market and the impact of decentralized finance on market dynamics. Discover their insights on navigating risk and regulatory challenges, the evolving role of Bitcoin, and emerging investment strategies in a rapidly changing landscape.

9 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 3min
Takeaways from the SEC Roundtable and Privy Acquisition | Weekly Roundup
The discussion begins with Stripe's acquisition of Privy, likening it to Instagram’s impact on Facebook. Insights emerge from the SEC Crypto Task Force Roundtable, where the significance of self-custody and DeFi token rallies are highlighted. The evolving landscape of venture capital and the shift towards crypto wallets are also explored. Additionally, the hosts address regulatory changes in Singapore and speculate on potential developments in crypto ETFs, particularly Solana and XRP, while emphasizing the importance of innovation and adaptability in the industry.

7 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 4min
Hivemind: Circle Valuation, Pump.Fun Token & What We’re Bullish
This week's discussion highlights the macro shift towards deficit-driven growth and the frenzy surrounding Circle's IPO. The hosts dive into the disruptive potential of stablecoins on traditional banking, alongside a critical look at Plasma's launch mechanics and the implications of Pump.Fun's token launch for Solana. They also evaluate crypto treasury companies, the prospects for ETFs, and share what they're feeling bullish about in the ever-evolving crypto landscape.

35 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 17min
How Venture Is Navigating Crypto IPOs Featuring Rob Hadick & Diogo Mónica
Diogo Mónica, a partner at Haun Ventures and co-founder of Anchorage, and Rob Hadick, a partner at Dragonfly known for his stablecoin investments, dive into the shifting landscape of crypto venture capital. They discuss the transition from speculative meme coins to serious investments, the challenges of crypto IPOs, and how companies like Circle are navigating this space. With insights on trading strategies and the evolving role of stablecoins, the conversation highlights opportunities and risks in the crypto market for both investors and emerging businesses.

23 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 1h 8min
Don’t Midcurve Circle and PumpFun | Weekly Roundup
Yano and Santi dive into the world of crypto, discussing the implications of Circle's oversubscribed IPO and Robinhood's expanding influence. They explore the excitement around Pump.fun's billion-dollar raise and dissect Coinbase's shifting position in the market. The hosts also touch on the intersection of politics and crypto, with humorous takes on the Trump family's involvement. Plus, they delve into the complexities of stablecoins in global remittances and the latest DeFi innovations, all while cautioning listeners about rising scams.

53 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 17min
Debate: How to Value an L1 Token With Dan Smith and Jonah Weinstein
Jonah Weinstein, a crypto-focused Portfolio Manager at SkyCatcher, joins forces with Dan Smith, Lead Researcher at Blockworks, for a deep dive into valuing L1 tokens. They debate the merits of REV versus RSOV metrics, exploring how these frameworks redefine investment strategies. The duo highlights the unique characteristics of Layer 1 tokens, their potential as monetary instruments, and the dynamic interplay among stakeholders. With insights into user demand and market valuations, they provide a fresh perspective on the evolving crypto landscape.

12 snips
May 31, 2025 • 1h 12min
LIVE Hivemind: Crypto Treasury Companies, Sui Hack & Solana’s New Consensus
The hosts explore the burgeoning trend of crypto treasury plays, spotlighting MicroStrategy's recent moves. They dive into the launch of the stablecoin Plasma and dissect the implications of the Sui hack on security and centralization. A fascinating discussion unfolds on Solana's new consensus model, balancing efficiency and decentralization. Plus, the looming threat of quantum computing on cryptocurrency security raises eyebrows. Tune in for insights that can shape the future of the crypto landscape!