The Network State Podcast

Lily, a tech veteran with experience across the US, China, and Europe, is currently a senior figure at Solana, focusing on tokenizing equity. She dives into Solana's rapid rise in the crypto landscape, exploring how it's creating Internet Capital Markets and enabling micropayments. The conversation covers the fascinating potential of tokenizing equities to democratize ownership and enhance global trading. Lily also discusses the integration of AI in finance, shedding light on the innovative transitions from Web2 to Web3.

Join Hemant Mohapatra, a partner at Lightspeed India, as he unpacks the thriving Indian tech landscape. He discusses how India became the third-largest hub for unicorns and the fastest growing economy from 2015-2025. The conversation covers biotechnology, innovations in drone delivery, and the country's vibrant content creation scene. Hemant also explores India’s struggles and triumphs in digital transformation and entrepreneurial spirit, providing insights into what drives this powerhouse on the global stage.

Jesse Pollak, who leads Coinbase Base, discusses groundbreaking blockchain innovations. He explores the motivation behind enabling ultra-low transaction fees on Ethereum and how Base is revolutionizing product development. The conversation dives into optimistic rollups and their impact on decentralization. Pollak also highlights the potential of blockchain beyond finance, including social networking and education. Lastly, he emphasizes the importance of building resilient tech communities and the evolving relationship between cryptocurrency and network states.

Claire Lehmann, founder and editor-in-chief of Quillette, dives into pressing global issues and cultural insights. She discusses the implications of Australia's AUKUS agreement amidst rising tensions with China. Lehmann explores America's shifting identity and cultural confidence, critiquing Hollywood's stagnation. The conversation touches on the intersection of media consumption and political identity, emphasizing the emergence of countries like India. She also shares visionary ideas for nurturing creativity in tech communities, marrying global talent with innovative education.

Benedict Evans, a tech analyst and former partner at Andreessen Horowitz, dives into the future of technology. He discusses the potential of smart glasses and amplified intelligence, along with the rise of robot dogs. The conversation shifts to the decentralization of media, exploring how AI is reshaping user interfaces. Evans highlights the evolving landscape of newsletters and the intricate balance between technological advancements and human engagement, offering insights into the cultural ramifications of these innovations.

In this engaging discussion, Jeremy Howard, the visionary behind fast.ai and founder of Answer.ai, dives into the democratization of AI education. He shares insights on competing with giants in tech competitions and innovative strategies for teaching image recognition. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy in education and the need for personalized learning experiences. Additionally, Howard talks about building a global community of innovators and how transformative coding practices can empower individuals in the age of AI.

Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of Ethereum and Zuzalu, dives into the cutting-edge world of blockchain technology. He discusses Ethereum's advancements in scalability, the maturation of DeFi, and the rise of stablecoins. The conversation also explores AI's safety and autonomy amidst global tensions, and how communities can drive technological innovation. Vitalik highlights the revolutionary intersection of cryptocurrency and biotech, as well as the potential of startup societies to transform governance and economic structures.

Join Jason Calacanis, co-host of All-In and a prominent angel investor, as he dives into the exciting world of startup societies and Network School. He explores the concept of 'voting with your feet' in search of better governance and democratic rights. Discover the rise of new nations and the impact of cryptocurrencies on global dynamics. With a critical look at America's role on the world stage and the potential of quantum computing for Bitcoin, Jason's insights reveal the future of freedom and innovation in our rapidly changing landscape.

Michael Saylor, Chairman and co-founder of MicroStrategy, dives deep into his pioneering Digital Assets Framework. He outlines how the U.S. can lead in digital assets by establishing clear classifications and legal structures. Saylor discusses the transformative potential of tokenizing traditional assets and the need for innovative, on-chain fundraising methods. He warns against overregulation stifling creativity and champions a streamlined approach to regulations that fosters a more accessible, tokenized economy for all.

Rudyard Lynch, creator of the YouTube channel WhatIfAltHist, dives into counterfactual history and how it can illuminate our understanding of the present. He explores alchemy's historical significance and its parallels with modern technology like cryptocurrency. The conversation touches on the implications of genetics in politics, the moral responsibilities of technology, and the shifting dynamics between states and decentralized networks. Lynch also discusses how the internet is reshaping societal structures and the decline of traditional power in favor of new ideologies.