

Gen C
CoinDesk
Generation Crypto is focused on how brands and marketers are exploring and building in the Web3 ecosystem to experiment in and potentially transform their businesses. Each week, our hosts Avery Akkineni of Vayner 3 and Sam Ewen from CoinDesk, will dive into how Fortune 500 brands and new start-ups alike are coming to the blockchain and utilizing new technologies, the creator economy and rewriting fandom/ownership to generate attention, gain customers and create value for their bottom line and those of their communities.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 10, 2024 • 35min
Live from Consensus: Memes & Money
From the Consensus stage, we explore the rise of meme coins and the financialization of cultural ideas through blockchain technology.In this episode, we feature a panel from Consensus moderated by Camilla McFarland with artist Rhett Mankind, marketer Liz Hagelthorn, talent representative Chris Jacquemin, and investor Derek Edwards to discuss the emergence of meme coins, the tokenization of cultural concepts and the potential impact of this trend on art, celebrity and the monetization of ideas. This episode was recorded live at Consensus 2024 in Austin, TX.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Derek on Twitter
Liz on Twitter
Rhett on Twitter
Chris on Twitter
Camilla on Twitter
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
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Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jun 3, 2024 • 28min
Live from Consensus: How Digital Assets and Virtual Economies Will Fuel Global Cultural Immersion with Ian Rogers of Ledger
Ian Rogers, the Chief Experience Officer at Ledger, is a digital pioneer with a rich history in music and technological innovation. He discusses the launch of Ledger Stacks and the vital role of digital ownership amid rising AI and security concerns. Ian highlights how luxury goods are moving towards digital purchases and the growing significance of user-friendly technology. He also explores the evolution of digital music and warns about the implications of synthetic data on trust and identity in an increasingly digital world.

May 28, 2024 • 25min
Hamster Kombat and Hollywood Controversies: A Peek into Emerging Tech Trends
Avery and Sam tackle the hot topic of Scarlett Johansson's clash with OpenAI over voice usage, raising ethical questions about AI. They dive into the trendy Hamster Combat game on Telegram, showcasing its viral potential and marketing chops. Additionally, they explore the surge of online scams in the tech world and introduce initiatives aimed at tackling these frauds. The duo also shares insights on leveraging social media for business growth, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and authenticity in today's fast-paced digital landscape.

May 21, 2024 • 52min
Spatial Computing and the Convergence of AI, Blockchain, and Virtual Worlds with Evan Helda of Amazon
Evan Helda, Principal Specialist in Spatial Computing at Amazon Web Services, joins this episode to discuss the future of spatial computing and its potential impacts.In this episode, Evan Helda, a leading expert in spatial computing at Amazon Web Services (AWS) sits down with Avery and Sam. Evan shares his insights on the recent release of Apple's Vision Pro and the challenges and opportunities in the development of immersive digital experiences. They delve into the convergence of spatial computing, AI and blockchain technology and how these advancements could revolutionize e-commerce, education, and entertainment.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Introducing GPT-4o and more tools to ChatGPT free users
GetBadNews App
Upfronts 2024: Where & When They’re Happening
Evan Helda on Twitter
Evan’s Newsletter — Medium Energy
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-Consensus is where experts convene to talk about the ideas shaping our digital future. Join developers, investors, founders, brands, policymakers and more in Austin, Texas from May 29-31. The tenth annual Consensus is curated by CoinDesk to feature the industry’s most sought-after speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Take 15% off registration with the code GENC15. Register now at consensus.coindesk.com.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 14, 2024 • 44min
Beauty Meets Blockchain with the Co-Founder of KIKI, Jana Bobosikova
Jana Bobosikova, Co-Founder of KIKI, discusses how her beauty platform empowers customers to co-create and co-own products through blockchain technology and community involvement.In this episode, Avery and Sam interview Jana Bobosikova, the co-founder of KIKI. KIKI is a beauty platform that rewards customers for participating in the product development process through voting, sharing ideas and providing feedback, using blockchain technology and NFTs to facilitate co-creation and co-ownership. We explore KIKI's innovative approach, the importance of community involvement and the future of decentralized product development.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Tubi Launches Stubios, A Fan Fueled Studio for Aspiring Filmmakers
OpenAI licenses Financial Times’ content for ChatGPT
Thanks To Hits Like Wordle, The New York Times Is Now A Gaming Company
KIKI Website
KIKI on Twitter
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-Consensus is where experts convene to talk about the ideas shaping our digital future. Join developers, investors, founders, brands, policymakers and more in Austin, Texas from May 29-31. The tenth annual Consensus is curated by CoinDesk to feature the industry’s most sought-after speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Take 15% off registration with the code GENC15. Register now at consensus.coindesk.com.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 7, 2024 • 41min
Driving Innovation: Mercedes-Benz's Roadmap for Web3 and NFTs
In this episode, the Co-Founder of Mercedes' Web3 arm 0xNXT shares insights on their multi-year roadmap to reach both crypto natives and loyal customers.Max Orgeldinger, Co-Founder of Mercedes-Benz's Web3 initiative 0xNXT, joins the show to discuss the luxury automaker's approach to entering the NFT space. He shares insights into their multi-year plan for releasing NFT collections targeting different audiences, from crypto natives to their most loyal customers. We also discuss how Mercedes is exploring emerging technologies like AI and decentralized social platforms for their Web3 strategy.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Instagram Creator Update
TikTok Tells Advertisers: ‘We Are Not Backing Down’
Mercedes NXT Website
Mercedes NXT Twitter
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-Consensus is where experts convene to talk about the ideas shaping our digital future. Join developers, investors, founders, brands, policymakers and more in Austin, Texas from May 29-31. The tenth annual Consensus is curated by CoinDesk to feature the industry’s most sought-after speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Take 15% off registration with the code GENC15. Register now at consensus.coindesk.com.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 29, 2024 • 28min
Building a Billion-Dollar Business for Creators With Kajabi’s Sean Kim
In this episode, learn the secrets to building a lucrative creator business from the ground up, straight from Sean Kim, President and CPO of the creator-first platform, Kajabi.Sean Kim, President and Chief Product Officer at Kajabi, discusses the challenges creators face in earning a sustainable income from their work. He explains how Kajabi's all-in-one platform has enabled over 63,000 creators and earned over $7 billion gross by providing them with the tools and resources to build and monetize their online businesses. Sean also shares his predictions for the future growth of the creator economy and Kajabi's roadmap for expanding opportunities for creators.Links mentioned from the podcast:
AI Deep Realities
What a TikTok ban in the US could mean for you
Sean’s Twitter
Kajabi Website
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-Consensus is where experts convene to talk about the ideas shaping our digital future. Join developers, investors, founders, brands, policymakers and more in Austin, Texas from May 29-31. The tenth annual Consensus is curated by CoinDesk to feature the industry’s most sought-after speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Take 15% off registration with the code GENC15. Register now at consensus.coindesk.com.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 24, 2024 • 28min
Sponsored Episode: Revolutionizing Digital Ownership: How Safe’s Smart Accounts Empower Brands
In this bonus episode of ‘Gen C’, discover how Safe is revolutionizing digital asset management with programmable smart accounts.Lukas Schor, Co-Founder of Safe, joins Sam to explain how the platform enables users to create programmable smart accounts for securely managing their digital assets. He discusses how Safe's smart contracts provide more flexibility and security than traditional private key wallets, and how it is being utilized by companies like WorldCoin, Reddit, and Budweiser for managing digital assets and NFTs. Lukas also shares insights on building Web3 native brands and the future of crypto as a payment method.Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 22, 2024 • 40min
Dapper Labs' Playbook: Ridhima Kahn on NBA Top Shot and Virtual Influencers
Ridhima Kahn, VP at Dapper Labs, shares insights on virtual influencers, digital collectibles, and major brand partnerships.Ridhima Kahn, VP at Dapper Labs, joins Avery and Sam to discuss the company's journey, from CryptoKitties to NBA Top Shot and beyond. She dives into the world of virtual influencers, detailing the evolution of virtual personality Miquela and the role of synthetic personalities. Ridhima also explores Dapper's digital collectibles strategy, partnerships with brands like Disney, the NFL and the NBA and the future potential of this emerging space.Links mentioned from the podcast:
AI-Generated Bond Movie Trailer
How Tech Giants Cut Corners to Harvest Data for A.I.
Dapper Labs Website
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-Consensus is where experts convene to talk about the ideas shaping our digital future. Join developers, investors, founders, brands, policymakers and more in Austin, Texas from May 29-31. The tenth annual Consensus is curated by CoinDesk to feature the industry’s most sought-after speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Take 15% off registration with the code GENC15. Register now at consensus.coindesk.com.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 16, 2024 • 42min
The Future is Mixed: Shaping Next-Gen Connectivity With Shachar Scott of Meta Reality Labs
From the Quest headset to the innovative Ray-Ban Stories smart glasses, Shachar joins the podcast to share Meta's strategy to integrate cutting-edge technologies into our everyday lives.In this episode, Shachar Scott, the VP of Marketing at Meta Reality Labs shares insights on how Meta is aiming to democratize access to mixed reality experiences through products like the Quest headset and Ray-Ban Smart Glasses. She discusses the potential for these technologies to enhance everything from fitness and entertainment to productivity and social interaction, as well as Meta's approach to building an open ecosystem of partnerships to drive innovation.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Google unveils Vids, an AI-powered video creation app for work
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses
Meta Quest VR Headsets
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) is the ownership layer of web3 with the most battle tested smart accounts. Trusted to secure over $100 billion, Safe offers unparalleled usability and security for individuals, DAOs, and institutions. Experience true digital ownership with Safe's flagship web and mobile wallet and its leading account abstraction infrastructure. Get started today at safe.global.-Consensus is where experts convene to talk about the ideas shaping our digital future. Join developers, investors, founders, brands, policymakers and more in Austin, Texas from May 29-31. The tenth annual Consensus is curated by CoinDesk to feature the industry’s most sought-after speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Take 15% off registration with the code GENC15. Register now at consensus.coindesk.com.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong. Our theme music is "1882” by omgkirby x Channel Tres with editing by Doc Blust. Artwork by Nicole Marie Rincon.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.


