

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

Mar 25, 2024 • 55min
Future-Proofing Beauty Brands: Dina Fierro of Shiseido on Web3, AI and What's Next
From Digital Collectibles to AI influencers, Dina Fierro of Shiseido Americas discusses beauty's boundaries in virtual realms.Dina Fierro, SVP Web3/Metaverse at Shiseido Americas, shares her journey from fashion to PR and marketing, becoming an early participant of online communities and influencer marketing. She delves into brands' exploration of Web3, metaverse, AI and gaming platforms like Roblox, balancing innovation with brand safety and measurable business objectives. Dina also highlights successful campaigns she’s executed like the NARS Color Quest experience on Roblox and Shiseido's Future Reflections generative NFT project.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Why Did Starbucks' Web3 Project Fail? | First Mover Clips
Pepe, Dogwifhat Could Lead Next Round of Meme Coin Surge, Traders Say
Dina on Twitter
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
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Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-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.

Mar 18, 2024 • 40min
Authenticating Content in the Generative AI Era With Vivendi’s Fabien Aufrechter
In this episode of “Gen C”, VP of Vivendi, Fabien Aufrechter, discusses how a major media conglomerate is embracing Web3 and generative AI for content authentication, tokenization and more.Sam interviews Fabien Aufrechter, VP at Vivendi, about the company's initiatives around Web3 and generative AI. They discuss using NFTs and blockchain for content provenance and fighting misinformation, tokenizing media for decentralized CRMs and the opportunities and risks that generative AI presents for creative industries. Fabien also shares his unique perspective as the mayor of a French town, Verneuil-sur-Seine.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Farcaster Loses 60% of Users In One Month As Interest In SocialFi Wanes
Fabien on Twitter
Vivendi Website
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
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Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-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.-Want to get three years of access to Consensus with the Microcosms NFT? For just 1ETH, you will gain entry to the conference and be eligible to receive randomized rewards including gift cards to local Austin spots, a hotel stay and VIP access to supercharge your event experience! In addition to three years of access to Consensus, you will also be the holder of a unique generative artwork, the Microcosms NFT, created by artist Fahad Karim. Mint now until March 14th at coindesk.com/consensusnft.-"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.

Mar 11, 2024 • 42min
Pouring Passion Into Brands: Diageo's Julie Yufe on Marketing Iconic Spirits
SVP of Vodka and Rum at Diageo, Julie Yufie, joins the pod to share how she keeps iconic spirits brands culturally relevant in this episode of “Gen C.”Julie Yufe, SVP of Vodka and Rum at Diageo, joins “Gen C” to discuss how the beverage giant balances global brand strategy with localized activations. She shares her approach to tapping into cultural moments like the Super Bowl through innovation and creator partnerships. Julie also explains why brand purpose is essential and how she stays inspired by trends across industries.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Binance made crypto perfume in a baffling attempt to woo women
Public trust in AI is sinking across the board
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
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Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-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.-Want to get three years of access to Consensus with the Microcosms NFT? For just 1ETH, you will gain entry to the conference and be eligible to receive randomized rewards including gift cards to local Austin spots, a hotel stay and VIP access to supercharge your event experience! In addition to three years of access to Consensus, you will also be the holder of a unique generative artwork, the Microcosms NFT, created by artist Fahad Karim. Mint now until March 14th at coindesk.com/consensusnft.-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong, with additional production assistance from Eleanor Pahl. 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.

Mar 4, 2024 • 45min
Culture, Commerce and Code With Nelly Mensah, VP of Digital Innovation at LVMH
In this week’s episode, LVMH's Nelly Mensah shares her insight on the luxury giant's foray into Web3, metaverse and immersive tech.Nelly Mensah, VP of Digital Innovation at LVMH joins "Gen C" to discuss their approach to Web3, metaverse and immersive technologies. She discusses LVMH's early embrace of NFTs and the metaverse, the role of digital fashion and virtual worlds in enhancing customer experiences, and how AI is shaping the future of luxury branding.Links mentioned from the podcast:
The Rebooting Newsletter on the state of publishers
Gab’s Racist AI Chatbots Have Been Instructed to Deny the Holocaust
Roblox Game Developers Earned a Record $741 Million Last Year
Nelly’s Twitter
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-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.-Want to get three years of access to Consensus with the Microcosms NFT? For just 1ETH, you will gain entry to the conference and be eligible to receive randomized rewards including gift cards to local Austin spots, a hotel stay and VIP access to supercharge your event experience! In addition to three years of access to Consensus, you will also be the holder of a unique generative artwork, the Microcosms NFT, created by artist Fahad Karim. Mint now until March 14th at coindesk.com/consensusnft. -"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong, with additional production assistance from Eleanor Pahl. 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.

Feb 26, 2024 • 26min
How to Bring an NFT to the Stars With Micah Johnson, Creator of Aku
Micah Johnson, former pro baseball player, artist and creator of Aku World, joins "Gen C" to discuss art in crypto.Today we have artist and former professional athlete Micah Johnson on the podcast. From being a successful artist to creating Aku, a character reminding children to go after their big dreams which has shown up at the NBA All-Star Game, on Beats Headphones, to the cover of Time Magazine, hear how Micah embodies aspirational creator culture.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Aku World
Micah’s Instagram
Micah on Twitter
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-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, with additional production assistance from Eleanor Pahl. 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.

Feb 20, 2024 • 42min
The Creator Is the Product, With Shopify’s Head of Brand Jess Williams
Jess Williams, head of brand at Shopify, joins “Gen C” to share how they're leveraging creators and gaming for commerce.We’re joined by Jess Williams, head of brand at Shopify, to discuss the brand's work with creators and influencers as the next generation of entrepreneurs, their investment in women's sports sponsorships and their use of platforms like TikTok and gaming for commerce opportunities. Williams also provides insights on marketing trends like leveraging creators for ads and driving commerce through immersive experiences.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Disney Tries Again To Get Game Business Right With Epic, Fortnite Deal
Coinbase’s bouncing QR code Super Bowl ad was so popular it crashed the app
Jess on Twitter
Shopify Website
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-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, with additional production assistance from Eleanor Pahl. 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.

Feb 12, 2024 • 46min
Digital Art and Cultural Acceptance With MoMA's Madeleine Pierpont
Madeleine Pierpont of The Museum of Modern Art shares how the renowned museum is embracing digital art and bringing awareness of the medium to its visitors.In this week’s episode, Madeleine Pierpont from MoMA discusses the museum's initiatives around digital art, exhibiting Refik Anadol’s NFT art physically, launching the Postcard project for collaborative blockchain art creation and their goal of bridging the gap between the traditional art world and Web3. We also discuss the role of museums today, challenges around art financialization and the future of AI art.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Apple Vision Pro review: The infinite desktop
Employee loses $25M of firm’s funds after call with deepfake colleagues
Farcaster's Dan Romero Explains How 'Frames' Did What X (Twitter) Doesn't
Watch this episode on video:
YouTube
CoinDesk
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-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, with additional production assistance from Eleanor Pahl. 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.

Feb 5, 2024 • 43min
Verifying Truth in the Age of Misinformation, With Melody Hildebrandt of FOX
Melody Hildebrandt, CTO of FOX, discusses the impact of AI on the media industry, the importance of verifying content in the age of disinformation, and how blockchain could revolutionize content financing and distribution.

Jan 30, 2024 • 44min
Driving Into the Metaverse With Pia Schörner of BMW
BMW’s Head of Digital Experiential Content, Gaming and the BMW Metaverse shares insights on creating authentic brand experiences in virtual worlds and building relationships with the next generation of drivers.In this episode of “Gen C,” Avery and Sam chat with BMW’s Head of Digital Experiential Content, Gaming and the BMW Metaverse Pia Schörner about the automaker's forward-thinking approach to engaging younger audiences through gaming, the metaverse and emerging technologies like VR and AI. With 17 years driving innovation at BMW, Schörner provides an inside look at everything from the company's presence on Fortnite to its perspectives on digital ownership and the future of driving.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Just Us: Kith Announces Loyalty Program With Exclusive Sneaker Collaborations
Fake Joe Biden robocall tells New Hampshire Democrats not to vote Tuesday
‘Palworld’ video game ignites furor as it becomes an overnight sensation
BMW Group on Twitter
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong, with additional production assistance from Eleanor Pahl. 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.

Jan 22, 2024 • 37min
Getting Unhinged on CES, Snoop x Solo Stoves and, Is Roblox the new Amazon? With Avery and Sam
With Avery back in action, she and Sam get into the latest news and updates like Snoop and Solo Stove and celebrity CMOs in this episode of “Gen C.”Avery shares her experience attending CES, the Consumer Electronics Show, and the key trends and technology that stood out. They also analyze the massive growth of Roblox's user base and discuss how and when the platform should monetize its audience. Other topics include Forbes utilizing connected wallets for subscriber acquisition and the implications of AI in content production and e-commerce.Links mentioned from the podcast:
Inside Solo Stove’s Viral Snoop Dogg Partnership—And How It Almost Didn’t Happen
Roblox Monthly Active Users tweet
Forbes Makes Premium Content Free For Web3 Community Via Digital Wallet Connect
Vayner Morning Brew tweet
Follow us on Twitter:
Sam Ewen, Avery Akkineni, CoinDesk, Vayner3
-"Gen C" features hosts Sam Ewen and Avery Akkineni. Executive produced by Jared Schwartz and produced by Uyen Truong, with additional production assistance from Eleanor Pahl. 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.