
Lightspeed
Lightspeed is a podcast for those interested in how crypto can solve real problems and create products users love. It's a callback to the garage days of Silicon Valley, where builders pushed the limits of hardware and software to build world-changing products. We interview the projects and founders that will make this same impact today.
Latest episodes

Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 11min
Solana's Path To Decentralized Nasdaq | Max Resnick
Max Resnick, lead economist at Anza and former Ethereum researcher, dives into Solana's mission to create a decentralized Nasdaq. He discusses Anza's contributions to the Alpenglow upgrade and how it aims to revolutionize TradFi. Resnick sheds light on the evolution of decentralized exchanges, tackling challenges like liquidity and trading efficiency. He also addresses concerns regarding Solana's inflation and the pressing need for transparent trading mechanisms to enhance user experiences and retain stakers amidst competitive dynamics.

Jun 20, 2025 • 56min
The Rise Of Crypto's App Ecosystem Mike Dudas
Mike Dudas, managing partner at Six Man Ventures and a savvy commentator in crypto and venture capital, dives into the evolving landscape of crypto investment. He shares the origin story of 6MV while contrasting liquid and venture investing strategies. The discussion touches on Solana's growing app ecosystem, the implications of market manipulation, and the challenges faced by venture capitalists in the crypto space. Dudas also explores the successes of platforms like Hyperliquid, illustrating the competitive dynamics shaping the future of decentralized finance.

Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 8min
Empire | Introducing The Token Transparency Framework
Dan Smith, Head of Data at Blockworks, and Louis, Investment Partner at L1D, discuss the revolutionary Token Transparency Framework aimed at clarifying the crypto landscape. They dive into challenges in the token market, comparing it to a 'market for lemons' due to information gaps. The importance of standardized communication and trust among investors is highlighted. They also tackle systemic risks and the need for regulatory measures, emphasizing the framework's potential to elevate industry integrity and improve investor confidence.

Jun 17, 2025 • 44min
Solana ETFs Are Coming With Carlos Gonzalez Campo
Carlos Gonzalez Campo from BlockWorks Research joins to discuss exciting developments in the world of Solana ETFs. He shares insights on how these filings might affect SOL in 2025 and compares Treasury companies with ETFs. The conversation dives into the competitive landscape of decentralized finance, exploring CLOBs versus AMMs and the impact on trading strategies. Additionally, Carlos weighs in on whether Solana DEXs can hold their ground against competitors like Hyperliquid. It's a must-listen for crypto enthusiasts!

Jun 13, 2025 • 50min
Standard Chartered: The Bull Case For Solana | Geoff Kendrick
Geoff Kendrick, Head of Digital Asset Research at Standard Chartered, shares his insights on Solana's investment potential. He explores the bullish and bearish cases for SOL and discusses how to value Layer 1 blockchains. Kendrick also delves into the future scenarios for Solana, noting its potential impact in decentralized finance and the meme coin space. He compares Solana's growth prospects with Bitcoin and Ethereum, addressing institutional interest and scalability challenges that shape their roles in the crypto market.

Jun 10, 2025 • 54min
Crypto's Fastest Payments App, Only Possible On Solana | Ted Livingston
Ted Livingston, the founder and CEO of Flipcash and former creator of Kik, delves into the transformative potential of his new Solana payments app. He discusses how Flipcash simplifies the digital cash experience, allowing users to seamlessly turn physical money into digital transactions. The conversation highlights innovative features like the use of USDC for instant payments, a focus on privacy, and the exciting possibilities of micropayments in various industries. Ted also shares insights on navigating the crypto landscape and the evolution of payment technologies.

4 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 60min
How Will Pump Fun's Token Impact Solana? | Weekly Roundup
Ryan Connor, a Blockworks employee and staunch advocate for Pump Fun, dives into the ambitious plans surrounding the new token launch aimed at raising $1 billion. He discusses the potential impacts on the Solana ecosystem and explores market dynamics defining this venture. The conversation highlights strategies for navigating airdrops and the complexities of either launching a new blockchain or exchange. Additionally, Connor elaborates on the challenges of scaling within Solana, making it a must-listen for crypto enthusiasts!

Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 17min
Alpenglow: Solana's Largest Protocol Upgrade Ever | Brennan Watt, Anza
Brennan Watt, VP of Core Engineering at Anza, discusses the Alpenglow upgrade, which aims to enhance transaction speed and network security for Solana. He shares insights on Anza's role in improving Solana’s scalability and the technical shifts from Tower BFT to innovative solutions. The conversation also delves into strategies for reducing malicious MEV and the changing economics surrounding decentralized transactions. Brennan's expertise sheds light on the future of Solana and the importance of continuous improvement in blockchain technology.

May 30, 2025 • 60min
The Solana Incubator: Finding Crypto's Next Breakthrough App | Emon Motamedi
Emon Motamedi, Head of Solana Incubator, shares insights on fostering innovation in the crypto space. He discusses how to discover breakthrough ideas and emphasizes the significance of product-market fit in crypto startups. Emon provides valuable advice for founders navigating the evolving landscape, including the balance between launching tokens and achieving sustainable models. The conversation also highlights real-world applications of blockchain technology and the importance of community collaboration in launching impactful projects.

14 snips
May 27, 2025 • 42min
The State Of Solana DeFi With Kyle Samani & Chris Heaney
Kyle Samani, Managing Partner at Multicoin Capital, and Chris Heaney, Co-founder of Drift, dive into the vibrant world of Solana DeFi. They discuss the competitive landscape and innovative dynamics reshaping the ecosystem. Topics include advancements in consensus models, market making strategies, and the potential of Bitcoin integration for yield generation. They'll explore the significance of projects like Axiom and Drift, alongside concerns about quantum computing's impact on Bitcoin security. Tune in for insights on the future of decentralized finance!