

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

Nov 18, 2022 • 41min
Did the Bahamian Government Direct SBF and Gary Wang to Hack FTX? - Ep. 422
Wassielawyer, a lawyer specializing in restructuring and insolvency, provides a deep dive into the chaotic FTX bankruptcy. He discusses the complete failure of corporate controls within FTX, the troubling mingling of funds between Alameda and FTX, and the complicated legal battles between U.S. and Bahamian jurisdictions. The implications for FTX US customers seeking asset recovery are explored, alongside troubling revelations about former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried's attempts to save the company amidst an unraveling situation.

5 snips
Nov 16, 2022 • 1h 52min
The Chopping Block: Why Lenders Didn't Liquidate Alameda When It Was Underwater - Ep. 421
Explore the shocking collapse of FTX and the questionable actions of its leader, Sam Bankman-Fried. Delve into allegations of fraud, financial mismanagement, and the media's role in shaping public perception. The conversation also tackles the moral dilemmas of effective altruism in the crypto world, revealing a stark contrast between philanthropic intentions and personal extravagance. Lastly, consider the potential impact of this debacle on the future of the cryptocurrency industry and the pressing need for greater accountability.

Nov 15, 2022 • 1h 43min
Will FTX Customers Ever Recover Their Assets? Two Insolvency Experts Weigh In - Ep. 420
Wassielawyer, a restructuring and insolvency lawyer, and Thomas Braziel, founder of 507 Capital, dive deep into the chaotic bankruptcy of FTX. They discuss the potential recovery of assets for affected customers and the convoluted nature of FTX's balance sheet. Wassielawyer argues that Alameda is effectively dead and explores the legal intricacies of FTX's international bankruptcy. The conversation also touches on the impact of the recent $600 million hack and creative recovery solutions like tokenizing liabilities.

Nov 11, 2022 • 1h 7min
Erik Voorhees and Cobie on Why FTX Loaned Out Customers’ Assets - Ep. 419
Erik Voorhees, founder of ShapeShift, and Cobie, a crypto investor and host of UpOnly, dive deep into the shocking collapse of FTX. They discuss the alarming relationship between FTX and Alameda, highlighting the $10 billion deficit and why they view Sam Bankman-Fried's actions as sociopathic. The conversation touches on the implications of regulatory failures, the importance of blockchain transparency, and the risks of keeping assets in centralized exchanges. Their insights also explore how this event may reshape the future of crypto custodianship.

Nov 9, 2022 • 1h 4min
The Chopping Block: FTX: The Biggest Collapse in the History of Crypto? - Ep. 418
Nic Carter, a reformed Bitcoin maximalist, shares his insights on the seismic collapse of FTX and its implications for the crypto landscape. He discusses Binance's potential acquisition and the crisis triggered by Alameda's financial mismanagement. Nic addresses the looming regulatory repercussions and whether criminal charges could arise. The duo also reflects on the future of Solana without Sam Bankman-Fried's support, emphasizing the crucial need for transparency in the industry to restore trust and prevent further chaos.

Nov 8, 2022 • 1h 31min
Does Maximalism Help or Hurt Bitcoin? Lyn Alden and Udi Wertheimer Debate - Ep. 417
Lyn Alden, founder of Lyn Alden Investment Strategy, joins Udi Wertheimer, a former Bitcoin maximalist and crypto commentator, for a lively debate on Bitcoin maximalism. They define what it means to be a maximalist and discuss its potential toxicity within the community. Lyn argues that Bitcoin’s reputation has faced attacks from the media, while Udi highlights the complexities of being a 'Bitcoiner.' They explore Bitcoin's evolving security model, the importance of permissionless transactions, and the ongoing narratives competing against Ethereum in the quest for sound money.

Nov 5, 2022 • 59min
The Chopping Block: Can Exchange CEOs Like SBF Be Crypto True Believers? - Ep. 416
The hosts dive into Elon Musk's Twitter acquisition and its impact on Dogecoin, sparking debate on centralized versus decentralized social media. They examine Binance Pay's promise, the complexities of Twitter's verification changes, and the rise of emerging crypto networks. The discussion turns to the ethical dilemmas faced by crypto leaders like Sam Bankman-Fried and the controversies around regulations in the space. Additionally, they analyze Reddit's NFT strategy and the need for rebranding in the digital collectible market.

Nov 4, 2022 • 36min
Bitcoin Miners Going Bankrupt? Here's How Crypto Winter Is Impacting the Industry - Ep. 415
Nick Hansen, cofounder and CEO of Luxor Technologies, shares his insights on the state of Bitcoin mining during these challenging times. He discusses why many miners are facing a historic low in profitability, with numerous rigs left unused. The conversation covers the implications of potential bankruptcies in the sector, exploring how some companies adapt and thrive despite financial pressures. Hansen also highlights the prospect of integrating renewable energy into mining practices as the industry evolves.

Nov 1, 2022 • 1h 10min
Are NFT Royalties the Way? How to Build a Sustainable Creator Economy - Ep. 414
Sterling Crispin, an innovative artist and software developer, teams up with Holly Herndon, a renowned musician and host, to tackle the challenges creators face in the evolving landscape of NFTs and royalties. They explore how Holly utilized her Holly Plus Project for royalty payments and discuss the complexities of creator compensation in digital economics. The duo debates whether NFT royalties benefit larger creators more than smaller ones and suggests alternative profit-sharing models that could revolutionize how artists monetize their work.

Oct 28, 2022 • 34min
The Mango Markets Attacker on Whether His 'Trade' Was Ethical or Not - Ep. 413
Avraham Eisenberg, known as the Mango Markets attacker and blogger at DeepFi Value, dives into the controversial world of DeFi exploits and trading ethics. He shares his personal journey, discussing the decision to return part of the funds from his exploit and the misconceptions surrounding bad debt in Mango Markets. Avi explores the fine line between arbitrage and exploitation, reflecting on why lucrative traders often face public disdain. He also touches on the complexities of running non-zero-sum games and comments on Compound's strategy regarding illiquid assets.