

Unchained
Laura Shin
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 9, 2024 • 36min
How Crypto Markets Are Reacting Post-Selloff, With Election/Fed Uncertainty Ahead - Ep. 685
In this insightful discussion, Jason Pagoulatos, Head of Markets at Delphi Digital, dives into the complexities of the current crypto landscape. He highlights the recent selloff triggered by macroeconomic factors and Jump Trading's role in Ethereum's struggles. Jason predicts how slowing outflows from Grayscale’s ETHE could influence Ethereum's future. He also tackles the impact of Bitcoin ETFs and why investment advisors are likely to keep promoting Bitcoin to clients despite current uncertainties in the market.

10 snips
Aug 6, 2024 • 59min
Crypto Prices Are Way Down. Is It Time to Buy the Dip? - Ep. 684
Jeff Dorman, Chief Investment Officer at Arca, shares his insights into the recent crypto market crash and the macroeconomic factors influencing it. He dives into Ethereum’s unexpected downturn, the significant impact of the Japanese yen carry trade, and why he remains optimistic by 'buying the dip.' Dorman discusses the evolving dynamics of crypto policy, and how political shifts could affect the landscape. He also tackles the role of Bitcoin as a hedge against market volatility and the implications of government proposals for cryptocurrency reserves.

Aug 2, 2024 • 39min
Is It a Good Idea for the US Government to Stockpile Bitcoin? - Ep. 683
George Selgin, a Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute and an expert in monetary alternatives, dives into intriguing proposals for the U.S. government to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve. He contrasts the varying approaches of Donald Trump and Senator Cynthia Lummis, expressing skepticism about government involvement in Bitcoin. Selgin argues that such investments are risky and primarily symbolic. He also discusses the potential implications of stockpiling Bitcoin, emphasizing the need for caution in these high-stakes financial decisions.

Aug 1, 2024 • 1h 1min
Compound Finance Governance, Strategic Bitcoin Reserves, & BitClout's Legal Woes- The Chopping Block - Ep. 682
The podcast dives into the implications of a proposed U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve, discussing its potential impact on institutional adoption and global crypto policies. It explores the controversial governance issues surrounding Compound Finance, particularly the influence of activist investors on decision-making. Additionally, the legal troubles of BitClout's founder highlight the importance of ethical governance in the crypto space. They also reflect on the evolving political attitudes towards cryptocurrency, showcasing a shift in bipartisan support.

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 12min
Bits + Bips With Nic Carter: Trump’s Promises, Kamala’s Shift & ETH’s ‘Narrative Problem’ - Ep. 681
Nic Carter, a general partner at Castle Island Ventures with a surprising background in amateur fighting, discusses the impact of political figures on crypto. He delves into Trump’s promises regarding crypto at the Bitcoin Nashville conference and Kamala Harris’s policy shifts. Nic shares insights on Ethereum's narrative struggles and the rise of Solana, highlighting the competition between the two ecosystems. He also reflects on the implications of regulatory proposals and the Biden administration's evolving stance towards cryptocurrencies.

Jul 30, 2024 • 1h 33min
Why Gary Gensler Will Likely Be Out as SEC Chair No Matter Who Wins the Election - Ep. 680
In this discussion, Sheila Warren, CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation, and Justin Slaughter, Policy Director at Paradigm, dive into the evolving landscape of crypto politics. They analyze Trump's surprising pro-Bitcoin stance and the Democrats' shift towards a crypto-friendly agenda. The duo also explores the potential ramifications of a changing SEC leadership and Gary Gensler's uncertain future. They highlight the crucial role crypto voters could play in the upcoming elections and decode the significance of the proposed Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Bill.

Jul 26, 2024 • 30min
Why Congressman Ro Khanna Is Hopeful the Democratic Party Will Embrace Crypto - Ep. 679
Ro Khanna, a U.S. Representative from California, is on a mission to reshape the Democratic Party's stance on cryptocurrency. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in the current regulatory environment, emphasizing the need for a crypto-inclusive platform. Khanna shares his thoughts on the Supreme Court's recent decision, how to regain trust from disillusioned crypto voters, and his upcoming speech at the Nashville Bitcoin conference. He believes that younger voices within the party are crucial for fostering a positive, innovative approach to crypto policy.

Jul 23, 2024 • 1h 9min
Apps on the TON Blockchain Have Become Extremely Popular. Is It Sustainable? - Ep. 678
In this discussion, Alena Shmalko, Ecosystem Lead at the TON Foundation, and Jack Booth, Director of Marketing, dive into the explosive growth of the TON blockchain. They share insights on its impressive rise in Total Value Locked, fueled by innovative mini apps like Hamster Kombat. They also discuss the evolution of TON from its early days with Telegram to current market success, the scalability features that enhance its performance, and the community engagement strategies driving user interest in games and decentralized applications.

Jul 19, 2024 • 40min
Congressman French Hill on Crypto and His Top Pick for the Next SEC Chair- Ep. 677
Congressman French Hill, a key figure in crypto legislation and vice chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, dives into the current state of crypto regulation. He passionately discusses the FIT21 bill and who he believes should succeed Gary Gensler as SEC chair. Hill also emphasizes the CFTC's pivotal role and how the Chevron doctrine's potential overturning could impact the crypto landscape. Additionally, he shares insights on Trump's evolving crypto stance and provides an update on the detained Binance executive in Nigeria.

Jul 18, 2024 • 1h 7min
The Chopping Block: Trump's VP Pick, SEC's Future, and Congress' Crypto Legislation - Ep 676
The podcast dives into the intriguing intersection of politics and cryptocurrency. It examines the implications of JD Vance as Trump's new running mate, analyzing how this partnership might affect crypto policies. Discussion expands to Trump's evolving approach to the industry and potential SEC changes if he returns to office. The involvement of crypto PACs in engaging with lawmakers signals a growing political clout. Recent political events are scrutinized for their effects on the crypto market and the future landscape of regulation in the United States.