
Unchained
Crypto assets and blockchain technology are about to transform every trust-based interaction of our lives, from financial services to identity to the Internet of Things. In this podcast, host Laura Shin, an independent journalist covering all things crypto, talks with industry pioneers about how crypto assets and blockchains will change the way we earn, spend and invest our money. Tune in to find out how Web 3.0, the decentralized web, will revolutionize our world. Disclosure: I'm a nocoiner.
Latest episodes

Oct 10, 2024 • 1h 7min
The Chopping Block w/ Stani Kulechov: Operation Chokepoint 2.0, Ethereum Innovation Push, & Polymarket Whales - Ep. 717
In this conversation, Stani Kulechov, Founder and CEO of Avara and Aave innovator, dives into thrilling crypto debates. The group speculates on Satoshi Nakamoto's identity, fueled by a new HBO documentary. They discuss Ethereum's potential block time reduction and blob storage expansion to maintain competitiveness. The talk heats up with insights on a Trump whale on PolyMarket and the implications of Operation Chokepoint 2.0, highlighting regulatory pressures on the crypto space and the role of TikTok in shaping market reactions.

12 snips
Oct 9, 2024 • 1h 21min
Bits + Bips: Why ‘All Assets Will Go Up’ in the Near Future - Ep. 716
Nikos Kargadouris, Chief Investment Officer of a private investment office, joins the discussion about the shifting macro landscape as the PBOC and Fed adjust policies. He shares insights on how increased liquidity may drive all asset classes up, including equities and Bitcoin. The potential mispricing in the oil market due to geopolitical tensions is also highlighted, along with the surprising resilience of the U.S. economy against recession fears. Plus, they ponder whether central banks might embrace Bitcoin ETFs and the future of meme coins.

Oct 8, 2024 • 1h 13min
How North Koreans Infiltrated the Crypto Industry to Fund the Regime - Ep. 715
Sam Kessler, CoinDesk’s deputy managing editor for tech, and Taylor Monahan, co-founder of MyEtherWallet, dive into the alarming infiltration of the crypto industry by North Korean operatives. They discuss how these 'IT' workers use deception to bypass hiring processes and the ethical dilemmas facing companies unknowingly employing them. The conversation highlights security vulnerabilities, red flags to watch for, and personal stories that reveal the unique tactics deployed by these hackers. They also reflect on industry improvements and the ongoing fight to secure crypto protocols.

Oct 6, 2024 • 49min
The Chopping Block: EigenLayer Launch, Celestia Controversy, and Ethereum’s Future - Ep. 714
The podcast dives deep into Ethereum's homestaking crisis as it faces fierce competition from high-throughput chains like Solana. It highlights the drama surrounding EigenLayer's token launch and its impact on Celestia's data availability approach. Ethical debates arise over VC practices in staking rewards, particularly a controversial $82 million sale. The hosts discuss how restaking could enhance Ethereum's long-term value amidst these challenges and explore the changing dynamics of the crypto community and its future trajectory.

Oct 4, 2024 • 40min
Bitcoin's Price Dropped After Iran's Attack on Israel. Is ‘Uptober’ Canceled? - Ep. 713
André Dragosch, European Head of Research at Bitwise, dives into Bitcoin's relationship with geopolitical turmoil, particularly following the Iran-Israel conflict. He discusses how these events create volatility yet also offer buying opportunities, emphasizing Bitcoin's potential as a safe-haven asset. André analyzes Bitcoin's historical trends and its evolving reputation, underlining the impact of institutional investments and upcoming U.S. elections on price dynamics. Is ‘Uptober’ still on the table? Tune in to find out!

18 snips
Oct 1, 2024 • 1h 20min
Could Bittensor End Up Being the Only Crypto/AI Project That Matters? - Ep. 712
Joseph Jacks, founder of OSS Capital, and Sami Kassab, partner at OSS Capital, dive into Bittensor, a revolutionary decentralized AI network. They discuss how Bittensor challenges traditional AI models and why they are enthusiastic about its TAO token. The duo explores the intricacies of subnet creation, its potential to democratize AI, and the importance of open-source collaboration. They also touch on the dangers AI poses and whether Bittensor could mitigate these risks, showing that this project could reshape both the AI and crypto landscapes.

Sep 27, 2024 • 44min
Why Bitcoin ETF Options Could Unlock Massive Amounts of Capital for Crypto - Ep. 711
Joshua Lim, co-founder and CEO of Arbelos Markets, joins the conversation to unpack the potential impact of Bitcoin ETF options on the crypto landscape. He discusses how these options could unlock significant capital and perhaps fuel an altcoin boom. Joshua explores the implications for Bitcoin volatility and DeFi lending, along with the expected changes in the options markets. Additionally, he speculates on how the upcoming U.S. presidential election might influence Bitcoin's trajectory, shedding light on strategic market dynamics.

5 snips
Sep 26, 2024 • 1h 18min
Bits + Bips: Why Bitcoin Is a Leveraged Bet on Global Liquidity - Ep. 710
In a captivating discussion, Sam Callahan, a macroeconomics analyst at The NewsBlock, unpacks the intricate relationship between Bitcoin and global liquidity. He explores how the Federal Reserve's recent rate cuts affect Bitcoin’s price and highlights the implications of Solana's token unlocks. The conversation raises critical questions about Bitcoin’s dependence on M2 money supply and examines fears surrounding BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF. Can Bitcoin serve as a leveraged bet on macro conditions? Tune in to find out!

Sep 24, 2024 • 1h 22min
With Rate Cuts and Upcoming Elections, What’s the Best Play in Crypto? - Ep. 709
Quinn Thompson, CIO of Lekker Capital, and Travis Kling, Founder of Ikigai Asset Management, dive into the impact of the Fed's recent rate cut on the crypto market. They discuss Bitcoin's underperformance against traditional finance, potential catalysts tied to the 2024 elections, and what it means for various crypto assets. The duo explores the risks of Japan's yen carry trade on crypto and the future of Ethereum amidst regulatory changes. Insightful investment strategies emerge, especially regarding SOL and the significance of Bitcoin ETF approvals.

Sep 23, 2024 • 45min
The Chopping Block: World Liberty Financial, Liquidity Risks, and Global Crypto Adoption - Ep. 708
Arthur Hayes, CIO at Maelstrom and a macroeconomics expert, joins the lively discussion that unfolds at Token2049 in Singapore. They tackle logistical challenges posed by the F1 weekend and dive into the controversies surrounding celebrity coins, including a canceled debate with Iggy Azalea. The team explores the potential impact of Fed rate cuts on market liquidity and the evolving dialogue around global crypto adoption. With humor and insight, they unravel the complex interplay between fame and finance in the crypto landscape.