
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

7 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 6min
Hivemind: Peak Macro Uncertainty, Hyperliquid Bull Case & the New Era of Programming
The hosts dive into the current macroeconomic uncertainties and their effects on the cryptocurrency market. They explore the future of meme coins and how they might thrive despite volatility. A deep look into Hyperliquid reveals its potential as a leading decentralized exchange. The discussion also highlights Celestia's role in modular blockchain design and the innovative Converge platform. Lastly, concepts like 'vibe coding' and advances in AI spark insights on the new era of programming, enriching the crypto landscape.

33 snips
Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 3min
The State Of Crypto Lending | Membrane Labs
Carson Cook and James Roth, co-founders of Membrane Labs, delve into the current state of crypto lending. They explore the impacts of past failures like Terra/Luna and the lessons learned about risk management. The duo discusses how traditional financial institutions are cautiously eyeing the crypto lending landscape amid regulatory uncertainties. They highlight the differences between decentralized finance and traditional lending, while also predicting a shift towards more secure and efficient practices in the evolving market.

33 snips
Mar 14, 2025 • 55min
Why Is This Cycle Different? | Weekly Roundup
This week, the discussion dives deep into the bearish trends affecting both traditional finance and crypto markets. A major topic is MGX's massive investment in Binance and what it means for valuations in the sector. Insights on current VC dynamics reveal a shifting sentiment among younger professionals. The conversation also tackles the complexity of market timing and how external factors, meme coins, and investor fatigue are shaping the landscape. Lastly, a focus on crypto resilience and innovation sheds light on the industry's evolving nature.

13 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 15min
The Overton Window Is Shifting | Anthony Pompliano
Anthony Pompliano, a prominent entrepreneur and investor in crypto, shares his insights on various pressing topics. He examines the economic divide exacerbated by technological disruptions and the rise of populism in politics. The discussion highlights how tariffs can bolster domestic production rather than aid inflation. Pomp emphasizes the importance of independent thought in today's polarized environment and reflects on shifting investment personas, encouraging entrepreneurs to embrace curiosity and problem-solving for business success.

10 snips
Mar 7, 2025 • 1h 7min
Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, Crime, and the Ethereum Foundation
This week’s discussion dives into the current bearish market sentiments in crypto, while keeping an eye on a hopeful future. The potential for a U.S. strategic cryptocurrency reserve is explored, alongside the challenges it may bring. The Ethereum Foundation's innovative Silviculture Society aims to uphold community values as the ecosystem expands. The necessity for transparency and effective regulations in crypto is emphasized to build trust and integrity in the space.

36 snips
Mar 7, 2025 • 1h 7min
Cycles Don’t End Before They Start | David Kalk & Pranav Kanade
This week features David Kalk, the founder of Reflexive Capital specializing in crypto strategies, and Pranav Kanade, an analyst at VanEck known for his market insights. They dive into the current turmoil of the crypto market, exploring the unwinding of the basis trade and what's next for Bitcoin and altcoins. The duo discusses the psychology behind trading, investor mindsets, and the significance of macroeconomic factors on market dynamics. They also highlight the shift towards a multi-chain future and how specialized chains could reshape investment behaviors.

Mar 6, 2025 • 1h 14min
Hivemind: Macro News Bearish, Crypto News Bullish & What We’re Bidding
This week, the team dives into the impact of crypto scams on market sentiment and debates whether the Trump administration was better for crypto than the current leaders. They unpack the complexities of macroeconomic factors driving markets, emphasizing the shift from speculation to fundamentals in investing. The discussion touches on meme coins, the challenges retail investors face, and the intriguing dynamics between Bitcoin, altcoins, and AI stocks. Plus, they explore emerging trading strategies and innovations in the crypto landscape!

13 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 1h 25min
Why Is Everyone So Bearish? | Weekly Roundup
This episode dives into the current bearish sentiment gripping the cryptocurrency market. Discussion covers the psychological toll on investors facing declines and whether fundamentals still matter. The impact of recent hacks and the challenge of insufficient market inflows are also examined. A look at innovations in digital wallets and the ongoing regulatory landscape around stablecoins adds depth. Throughout, the hosts emphasize maintaining a long-term perspective and adapting strategies in an unpredictable environment.

53 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 3min
Memes are Dead, Long Live the Memes | Nick Tomaino
Nick Tomaino, Founder of One Confirmation and a crypto expert, dives into the evolving world of cryptocurrency. He sheds light on the recent launch of LIBRA and the increasing significance of stablecoins. The discussion explores the ethical dilemmas surrounding meme coins and the need for education in the crypto landscape. Tomaino also emphasizes long-term investment strategies for newcomers and the importance of supporting founders focused on sustainable development. Insights into app chains and the future of decentralized finance make this a must-listen for crypto enthusiasts.

17 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 7min
Crypto’s Momentum Shift, Kaito’s Token Launch, and Bridging UX | Roundup
This discussion dives into the recent momentum shift in crypto, exploring the mixed feelings surrounding Kaito's token launch. Topics include the challenges of centralized operations in a decentralized world and the nuances of blockchain interoperability. The conversation also highlights the emotional impact recent market changes have had on participants. Lastly, they tackle the current state of bridging technology and user experience in crypto exchanges, emphasizing innovative solutions for a more inclusive ecosystem.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.