
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

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.

16 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 30min
How Trump became a Bitcoiner | David Bailey
David Bailey, Founder of Bitcoin Magazine and a key figure in the Bitcoin community, shares his insights into the future of Bitcoin. He discusses the evolution of the Bitcoin market, the significance of establishing a strategic reserve, and the potential for Bitcoin to become part of national reserves. Bailey reflects on the challenges faced in the cryptocurrency space, including navigating political influences and the impact of ETFs on Bitcoin accessibility. He also delves into innovative strategies for global investors and the fascinating concept of hyperbitcoinization.

7 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 1h 16min
Hivemind: Fate of ETH, Initia with Zon, & OpenAI's Deep Research
Zon, Co-founder and CSO of Initia, discusses the project's promising evolution in the competitive crypto landscape. The conversation dives into whether Ethereum can bounce back from its challenges while highlighting Solana's position. Zon and the hosts analyze user behavior, the significance of app chains, and how blockchain standards are adapting. They also reflect on the market's mood and potential opportunities in decentralized finance, alongside OpenAI's transformative AI role in enhancing productivity. It's a lively exploration of tech, innovation, and market dynamics!