

The Bitcoin Frontier
Unchained Capital, Inc
Explore how bitcoin as a monetary tool is transforming lives and perspectives. Through Joe Burnett’s conversations, uncover stories of innovation, disruption, and growth as we chart the ever-evolving bitcoin frontier. Whether you're a bitcoin veteran or just curious, The Bitcoin Frontier is your guide to the future of money.
Episodes
Mentioned books

13 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 53min
Zombie companies should front run nations with Eric Semler
In this engaging discussion, Eric Semler, Chairman of Semler Scientific and founder of TCS Capital, dives into the future of Bitcoin and its potential to surpass gold. Eric shares his initial experiences with Bitcoin and highlights the hurdles corporate adoption faces. He examines how banks might evolve their custody services and the impact of global trade on Bitcoin's rise. The conversation also touches on the risks posed by quantum computing and the potential for a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve, emphasizing the generational shift in investment perspectives.

48 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 56min
Tariffs and Plaza Accord 2.0 could send bitcoin soaring with Jeff Park
In this discussion, Jeff Park, Head of Alpha Strategies at Bitwise and former derivatives trader at Morgan Stanley, dives deep into bitcoin's role as a form of communication rather than just currency. He highlights how its volatility presents both risks and opportunities. Jeff elaborates on the implications of the U.S. dollar's weaknesses and discusses the potential for a Plaza Accord 2.0. He also touches on the growing corporate embrace of bitcoin, predicting that companies like Meta might join the trend. The conversation is filled with insights on bitcoin's future and its competitive edge over gold.

Feb 4, 2025 • 51min
Is bitcoin the singularity? with big tech engineer Radu
Radu, a big tech engineer, reveals his exciting journey from skepticism to a fervent belief in Bitcoin's potential. He presents a unique thermodynamic perspective, arguing for Bitcoin as perfected digital energy. Discussions highlight how Bitcoin anchors its value through proof of work, driving innovations in energy efficiency. Radu also explores the philosophical implications of a Bitcoin standard and its transformative power on global capital flows, nation-states, and even human consciousness. A fascinating dive into Bitcoin's future impact and technological synergy awaits!

4 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 56min
Could open-source mining further decentralize bitcoin? with Skot instigator of Bitaxe
In this discussion, Skot, an electrical engineer and the creator of Bitaxe, dives into the potential of open-source Bitcoin mining. He illustrates his journey from IoT engineering to creating accessible mining hardware. Skot debates the risks of centralization in the mining sector, arguing that decentralization is crucial for Bitcoin's future resilience. He also shares insights on integrating mining into household devices and highlights the importance of community collaboration in fostering innovation within the Bitcoin ecosystem.

31 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 56min
Could bitcoin make Michael Saylor the richest man alive? with NYU Stern adjunct professor Tad Smith
Tad Smith, founder of Durable Money and former CEO of Sotheby’s and Madison Square Garden, delves into the world of Bitcoin and investment strategies. He discusses his innovative teaching methods at NYU Stern, sharing captivating case studies like Amazon. Tad sheds light on the volatile nature of Bitcoin and MicroStrategy, highlighting the challenges of asset valuation. He also explores the concept of a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve and emphasizes the need for careful risk assessment as Bitcoin reshapes capital allocation globally.

Jan 14, 2025 • 60min
Fighting for 21,000,000 bitcoin with Kenny Florian
Kenny Florian, a former UFC fighter and broadcaster, shares his journey from the octagon to the world of bitcoin. He discusses the discipline of fighting and how it parallels the principles of bitcoin. Kenny reflects on his initial skepticism and eventual embrace of cryptocurrency, emphasizing its potential as a global reserve asset. The conversation touches on misconceptions about volatility, the importance of self-custody, and the community aspect of bitcoin. He urges listeners to understand bitcoin's transformative power before its value skyrockets.

6 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 56min
Should the U.S. build a national strategic bitcoin reserve?
Join George Selgin, a monetary economics expert and former Director at the Cato Institute, as he delves into the complexities of bitcoin’s role in today’s economy. He shares his journey from marine biology to economics, defines money’s shifting landscape, and argues why bitcoin may not qualify as money. Selgin critically assesses the idea of a national bitcoin reserve, discussing its potential risks and costs to the U.S. dollar and highlighting the tension between bitcoin as an investment versus a viable currency.

10 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 52min
Top 5 episodes of 2024
Reflecting on 2024, the discussion delves into key themes like bitcoin ETFs, mining, and the philosophical debates influencing its future. A standout moment is when the hosts celebrate 1.5 million views and 17 years of watch time. They tackle pressing issues such as bitcoin's role as a reserve asset, the impact of quantum computing, and insights from MicroStrategy's aggressive accumulation strategies. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive engagement in cryptocurrency, education, and a thoughtful approach to navigating its complexities.

18 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 52min
A bitcoin super cycle powered by nation states with Daniel Batten
In this conversation, Daniel Batten, an expert on Bitcoin megatrends, discusses the converging forces transforming the Bitcoin landscape. He highlights that sovereign wealth and pension funds are stepping into the Bitcoin arena, hinting at future market stability. Batten reveals how miners have shifted to becoming net buyers, suggesting a new phase in mining dynamics. The potential impact of Bitcoin ETFs is examined as a pivotal development in traditional finance, while questions arise about breaking the cycle of diminishing returns and the accelerating adoption of Bitcoin.

17 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 4min
Will quantum computers kill bitcoin?
Hunter Beast, a Bitcoin developer specializing in quantum resistance, discusses his journey from discovering Bitcoin to enhancing its security against quantum threats. He highlights how quantum computers could breach elliptic curve cryptography and endanger P2PK coins. Hunter introduces a proposed pay-to-quantum-resistant hash solution and discusses the challenges of implementing post-quantum cryptography. The conversation emphasizes community collaboration for upgrades and preparing Bitcoin for a secure future amidst evolving technology.