

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

4 snips
Jan 10, 2023 • 58min
What Does Mango Markets Exploiter Avi Eisenberg's Arrest in Puerto Rico Mean for DeFi? - Ep. 441
Gabriel Shapiro, general counsel at Delphi Labs, and Collins Belton, managing partner at Brookwood P.C., dissect the arrest of Avi Eisenberg, implicated in market manipulation. They engage in a heated debate about the implications for DeFi governance and the principle of 'code is law.' The discussion navigates whether utilizing DeFi code smartly constitutes fraud, the role of DAOs in governance, and the liability of those involved in Mango Markets. They also ponder the legal future of crypto amidst increasing scrutiny.

Jan 6, 2023 • 41min
Gemini vs. DCG Is Heating Up. Could Gemini Force Genesis Into Bankruptcy? - Ep. 440
Ram Ahluwalia, CEO and co-founder of Lumida, dives deep into the heated dispute between Gemini and Digital Currency Group (DCG). He discusses the implications of potential asset commingling and what could happen if Gemini pushes for Genesis to file for bankruptcy. Ram highlights how Cameron Winklevoss's tweets aim to tarnish Barry Silbert's reputation, while questioning the accuracy of DCG’s financial claims. He also explores the possible fallout for Grayscale if DCG falters and the emerging roles of firms like Valkyrie amid this unfolding drama.

Jan 3, 2023 • 1h 18min
Could the Crypto Markets Revive in 2023? Two Researchers Discuss - Ep. 439
Lucas Nuzzi, Head of R&D at CoinMetrics, shares insights on the future of the crypto market alongside Larry Cermak, VP of Research at The Block. They dissect the aftermath of the FTX collapse and potential contagion risks. Discussions include the challenges facing Bitcoin mining, why Miner Extractable Value (MEV) poses a threat to Ethereum, and the evolving role of stablecoin issuers in the current interest rate climate. They also examine market dynamics, calling for a shift towards long-term projects amid investor skepticism.

Dec 30, 2022 • 1h 18min
Why Martin Shkreli Thinks SBF's New Judge Could Still Be Lenient - Ep. 438
Martin Shkreli, a controversial entrepreneur and investor, shares his thoughts on the recent developments in Sam Bankman-Fried's case. He discusses the implications of the new judge, Lewis Kaplan, and why he might be lenient. Shkreli speculates on the likelihood of a guilty plea, the potential impact of SBF's family involvement, and courtroom strategies that might unfold. He even touches on how his own prison experience shaped his view of cryptocurrency and running a business behind bars. It’s a riveting dive into high-stakes legal maneuvering!

5 snips
Dec 28, 2022 • 1h 31min
The Chopping Block Recaps 2022: Crypto's Biggest Winners and Losers and Best Memes - Ep. 437
The hosts dive into the biggest winners and losers in the crypto world of 2022. They dissect the impressive rise of stablecoins and the industry's rocky reputation. Solana's struggles, the complexities of Miner Extractable Value (MEV), and the flaws in proof of reserves are explored. The podcast also highlights the surprising relationship between inflation and Bitcoin’s performance, alongside entertaining discussions about the year’s best memes. Predictions for 2023 include a possible Ethereum resurgence and evolving innovations in DeFi.

Dec 27, 2022 • 49min
Collapses, Bankruptcies, and Fraud: How 2022 Became the Year of Crypto Carnage - Ep.436
Chris Burniske, a crypto optimist, discusses finding hope amid the chaos of 2022's market turmoil. Tarun Chitra analyzes the Wintermute hacks, shedding light on crypto vulnerabilities. Haseeb Qureshi shares insights into the dramatic collapse of Terra/Luna and its ripple effects on investors. Kevin Zhou reflects on the FTX downfall, revealing warning signs he observed. Together, they explore the lessons learned from these significant crises in the crypto landscape, emphasizing the need for stronger risk management and resilience.

Dec 23, 2022 • 1h 23min
Martin Shkreli Explains Why Sam Bankman-Fried Got Lucky With His Judge - Ep. 435
Martin Shkreli, a controversial entrepreneur and former hedge fund manager, shares his insights on Sam Bankman-Fried's legal troubles. He discusses the unique challenges of federal sentencing and the prison environment, drawing from his own experiences. Shkreli analyzes why he believes Bankman-Fried's judge could be favorable and outlines potential prison dynamics he might face. He also reflects on the implications of plea deals and the societal perceptions surrounding white-collar crimes, making for a fascinating dive into the world of high-stakes legal drama.

6 snips
Dec 20, 2022 • 1h 22min
2022 in Review + How Cobie and Chris Burniske Are Playing the New Year - Ep. 434
Cobie, a prominent crypto investor and host of UpOnly, teams up with Chris Burniske, a partner at Placeholder Ventures, to dissect the tumultuous year of 2022 in the crypto world. They discuss the fallout from significant collapses, including FTX, and the lessons learned. Cobie hopes for justice against SBF, while Chris reflects on his own regrets. Despite the chaos, they remain optimistic about decentralized protocols and share strategies for surviving a bear market. Tune in for their insights on the evolving landscape and opportunities ahead.

5 snips
Dec 17, 2022 • 1h 10min
The Chopping Block: Was FTX a Scam From the Very Beginning? - Ep. 433
The podcast dives into the legal turmoil around FTX and its founder's arrest. It discusses the alarming SEC and CFTC complaints that expose mismanagement of funds. Insiders dissect Alameda's controversial practices and the potential fraud that many suspected. There's a spotlight on how SBF's political connections and risky decisions contributed to massive losses. The conversation also raises concerns about potential misleading financial reports and the implications for the future of Binance amid investigations, questioning the resilience of the crypto landscape.

Dec 16, 2022 • 42min
How Much Prison Time Is FTX's Sam Bankman-Fried Facing? - Ep. 432
Ari Redbord, Head of Legal and Government Affairs at TRM Labs, dives into the tumultuous legal situation surrounding Sam Bankman-Fried, former CEO of FTX. He explains the significance of the criminal indictment and the various charges SBF faces. Redbord discusses how Bankman-Fried's potential cooperation with authorities might impact his sentence and the complexities of his extradition from The Bahamas. The conversation reveals how unprecedented the speed of legal proceedings is in this case, likening it to other major corporate frauds.