Crypto Altruists: Real-World Stories of Social & Environmental Impact with Web3

For episode 200, we’re excited to share the recording from our special live episode in celebration of episode 200. We hosted a live space with our community, past guests, and friends to reflect on the journey so far, the powerful themes we’ve explored, and the stories that have inspired us along the way.This episode is a celebration of what makes Web3 so special: the people building it, the communities driving it forward, and the collective vision of using decentralized tools to create real-world impact.You’ll hear stories, laughter, reflections, and even a few surprises—because that’s what happens when you go live! Which brings me to a quick note: since this was recorded live, the audio quality isn’t quite up to our usual standards, and we didn’t do our usual post-production editing. But that’s also part of the charm of a live conversation—raw, authentic, and full of heart.In this episode we explore:What it’s like behind the mic of 200 episodes of the Crypto Altruists podcast, and key lessons I’ve learned along the wayReflections from past guests and community members on how Web3 is powering real-world impactWhat’s next for the podcast and our journey to show the world the good of Web3--Key Takeaways--🌐 Community is the Heart of Web3: The strength of Web3 lies in its people. From builders to listeners, it's clear that community is not just part of the journey—it is the journey. The collaborative spirit, support, and shared purpose are what set this ecosystem apart.💡 We’re Learning Together: Web3 is a rapidly evolving space, and nobody has all the answers. This episode was a powerful reminder that we’re co-creating the future through experimentation, humility, and shared knowledge.🌱 It’s Still Early: After 200 episodes, it’s clear we’ve only scratched the surface. The potential of Web3 for social and environmental impact is massive, and there are countless untold stories still waiting to be explored.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-200-celebrating-200-stories-of-impact-and-innovation-powered-by-web3Thank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, do not take any of this as investment advice and make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org/disclaimer.

For episode 199, we’ve put together a special episode to celebrate as we near episode 200! This episode is a bit of a “starter pack” for Web3 social impact, highlighting 10 inspiring use cases leveraging blockchain to build a better world - from humanitarian aid and remittances, to regenerative finance and decentralized science.This episode serves as a great overview of the many ways crypto rails can serve as the building blocks for a new era of social and environmental impact, while recognizing it is only the beginning!You’ll learn:How blockchain is powering humanitarian efforts, from emergency remittances to anticipatory action.Why public goods, scientific research, open-source software, and even forests are being funded and protected onchain.And how Web3 builders are rewriting the rules of what’s possible when it comes to social and environmental impact. JOIN US FOR THE LIVE RECORDING OF EPISODE 200 ON APRIL 22ND! 🥳🗓️ RSVP 🗓️--Key Takeaways--✅ Simplicity Drives Adoption: The most impactful Web3 projects are those that abstract away complexity. Whether it’s sending remittances or funding open-source software, success hinges on creating intuitive, user-friendly experiences that meet people where they are.❤️ Doing Good, Made Easy (and Fun): From AutoPGF to gamified science and cost-saving remittances, blockchain is making it easier—and more enjoyable—for people to drive real-world impact. Web3 is unlocking new models that empower individuals to be part of the solution.🌱 We’re Just Getting Started: This episode is only a small snapshot of what’s possible. The use cases we explored show that we’re still in the early days of blockchain for good—and the most exciting innovations are likely still to come.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-199-real-world-impact-with-web3-10-inspiring-blockchain-use-cases-driving-global-changeThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, do not take any of this as investment advice and make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org/disclaimer.

Welcome back to AutoPGF: Funding Impact with Glo Dollar—a special podcast mini-series from Crypto Altruists that explores the future of Automatic Public Goods Funding, or AutoPGF for short, and the incredible organizations leveraging this new mechanism to scale their impact.For Episode 3, we welcome Jon Ruth, Co-Founder of Climate Coordination Network—a Web3-native climate impact collective that has distributed over $4 million in funding to climate solutions—and Lana Dingwall, Partnerships Lead at Glo Dollar and an OG in the Regen & Web3 public goods funding space.In this episode, we explore how AutoPGF can help climate organizations escape endless grant cycles, lessons from building in Web3, and how the future could look if climate finance scaled with the power of crypto and community.We discuss:Why traditional climate funding models are falling short—and how Web3 public goods funding mechanisms like AutoPGF could unlock sustainable, scalable climate finance.How Climate Coordination Network has distributed over $4 million to Web3-enabled climate projects and what they’ve learned along the way.And how holding a stablecoin like Glo Dollar can help fund real-world climate solutions—without donors needing to spend a dime or their time.--Key Takeaways--💡 From Grant Chasing to Impact Creation: Traditional funding models often force impact organizations to focus more on chasing grants than creating impact. AutoPGF flips the script—offering a path to sustainable, unrestricted funding that empowers teams to spend less time finding money, and more time putting it to work.🤝 Web3 Is About People, Not Protocols: In the regenerative space, collaboration is everything. This episode highlights the shift from competition to community, reminding us that Web3 isn’t a zero-sum game—and when we build together, everyone wins.💸 Reclaiming the Stablecoin Narrative: Despite the turbulence of the past, stablecoins remain one of Web3’s most powerful tools. Glo Dollar shows how, when done right, they can offer a secure and frictionless way to store value and fund public goods—restoring trust and driving real-world impact.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-autopgf-episode-3-funding-climate-action-with-crypto-how-stablecoins-are-powering-a-greener-futureThank you to Glo for their support in bringing this series to life! 🙏--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org.

For episode 198, we’re excited to welcome Eric Alsop, Chief Technology Officer at Pesabase—a blockchain-based remittance platform making it faster, cheaper, and more secure to send money to South Sudan, with over $8.5 million transacted to date.From mobile agents to full-service banks, and from smart contracts to stablecoins, Pesabase is a masterclass on accessible UX & meeting users where they are—without compromising on security or speed.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why traditional remittance systems are failing those who need them most—and how one startup is using crypto rails to deliver $8.5 million in remittances to last-mile communities.How Pesabase has cracked the code on Web3 user experience by abstracting blockchain complexity for seamless, real-world adoption.And how stablecoins and smart contracts are reshaping the future of cross-border payments and financial inclusion.--Key Takeaways--💸 Remittances Are Broken: In many parts of the world, sending money home comes with painful costs—averaging around 10% and sometimes reaching as high as 30%—and delays that can stretch for days. This burden is especially heavy in places like South Sudan, which has the lowest GDP in Africa and limited financial infrastructure.🤝 Web3 That Works Without Saying 'Web3': Users shouldn't have to know they’re using blockchain. By blending familiar tools like mobile agents and local banks with crypto, they’ve created a seamless user experience that meets people where they are.⚙️ Smart Contracts + Stablecoins = Instant, Low-Cost Transfers: Pesabase has harnessed the power of crypto rails to make cross-border transactions nearly instant and far more affordable. Their smart contract system automates every step—from fiat conversion to stablecoin transfer to local currency withdrawal—creating an efficient end-to-end flow.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-198-pesabase-revolutionizing-remittances-delivering-8-5m-to-last-mile-communities-with-stablecoinsThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, do not take any of this as investment advice and make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org/disclaimer.

Welcome back for episode 2 of AutoPGF: Funding Impact with Glo Dollar—a special podcast mini-series from Crypto Altruists that explores the future of Automatic Public Goods Funding and the incredible organizations leveraging this mechanism to scale their impact.Today we welcome Ilan Wallentin from GiveDirectly and Garm Lucassen from Glo. GiveDirectly was the first-ever cause supported by Glo’s AutoPGF model—and for good reason. With over $800 million delivered directly into the hands of people living in poverty, GiveDirectly is proving what’s possible when we lead with trust and dignity.In this inspiring conversation, we explore:How one of the world’s most innovative nonprofits is transforming humanitarian aid by giving people cash directly— with no strings attachedHow Glo Dollar’s AutoPGF model, at scale, can help these organizations like GiveDirectly maximize their impact while building trust with donorsAnd how new models of automatic public goods funding could offer hope for the global aid sector amidst deep funding cuts--Key Takeaways--❤️ Cash with Dignity - Direct cash transfers give people in poverty the power to choose what they need most—whether that’s food, education, medicine, or starting a business. Backed by numerous studies, cash transfers are the most researched—and misunderstood—form of aid, consistently proving that people use the money wisely and impactfully.🔎 Trust Through Transparency - In a world where donor skepticism is rising, transparency is everything. From tracking every Glo Dollar to showcasing the real-world outcomes of GiveDirectly’s work, building transparency and trust ensures donors know exactly how and where their money is making a difference. Blockchain can be a key tool in making this a reality.💸 Passive Giving, Massive Potential - AutoPGF flips traditional philanthropy on its head by making impact effortless. Just by holding stablecoins like Glo Dollar, users can passively fund life-changing causes. And with the stablecoin market booming, the potential to scale this model—and fund the future of humanitarian aid—is enormous.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-autopgf-episode-2-can-stablecoins-end-extreme-poverty-inside-glos-partnership-with-givedirectlyThank you to Glo for their support in bringing this series to life! 🙏--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org.

José Ignacio Trajtenberg, CEO and Co-Founder of Xcapit, leads a pioneering Web3 R&D firm focused on blockchain and AI for social impact. He discusses tokenizing renewable energy in Argentina to promote sustainability and financial inclusion. José emphasizes designing tech solutions that prioritize real-world problems, making blockchain accessible for users in low-connectivity areas. He explores how decentralized tech can enhance financial systems, and shares insights on the future of asset tokenization and its potential to drive sustainable development.

In this engaging discussion, LauNaMu, Founder of MetricsGarden and trailblazer in Web3 public goods funding, shares her insights on Automatic Public Goods Funding (AutoPGF). She explains how Glo Dollar's model is revolutionizing impact funding by utilizing stablecoin yields for sustainable financing. The conversation dives into the necessity of pluralistic funding approaches as well as trends like deep funding, which aims to optimize resource allocation through data-driven methods. LauNaMu highlights the potential of Web3 to automate funding and support impactful initiatives.

For episode 196, we’re excited to welcome Debbie Soon, Co-Founder & Chief Growth Officer (prev.) at HUG, and author of Digital Mavericks. Debbie is a true pioneer, helping bridge Web2 and Web3, empower creatives, and make digital ownership more accessible.As an investor, entrepreneur, Web3 expert, and Founder, Debbie has played a pivotal role in building one of the most inclusive digital communities in Web3, securing partnerships with massive brands like the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers, DIOR, and even the United Nations. She’s also the author of Digital Mavericks, her recently released book that breaks down how blockchain and crypto are empowering a new generation of creators.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Web3 is revolutionizing creative entrepreneurship and digital ownershipThe secrets to building an inclusive and thriving Web3 communityWhat it truly means to be a Digital Maverick & build a successful career in Web3--Key Takeaways--❤️ Building Strong Community Based on Values, not Hype: Great communities take time to build. The key to long-term success is engaging and incentivizing members authentically, staying true to the original vision, and prioritizing "true believers" over those just riding the hype.🌐 Solving Web3’s Biggest Problem: A Lack of Go-to-Market Strategy: Crypto keeps preaching to the choir instead of expanding its reach. The focus should be on meeting people where they are, blending Web2 and Web3 seamlessly, and delivering real value—because users care about solutions, not backend technology.💻 What It Means to Be a Digital Maverick: A true Digital Maverick embraces risk, challenges assumptions, and stays adaptable. Success in Web3 requires curiosity, a learner’s mindset, and a willingness to experiment with emerging technology in a rapidly evolving space.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-196-building-for-everyone-how-web3-is-empowering-entrepreneurs-and-redefining-digital-communitiesThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, do not take any of this as investment advice and make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org/disclaimer.

Today, we’re doing something a little different, and breaking from our regular production schedule to release a special live bonus episode. This episode is a recording of a live twitter space, where we wrapped up our Trailblazers of Octant series with an open discussion, community reflections, and ecosystem updates.Since it was recorded live, the audio quality might not be what you're used to from our usual episodes, and there were limited editing and production options. But you know what, that’s part of the fun of a live conversation—it’s raw, unfiltered, and community-driven.For this conversation, we were joined by folks from Octant, Climate Coordination Network, Protocol Guild, Greenpill Dev Guild, CryptoConexión, and friends from the community. In the community discussion we reflect on key themes and highlights from the Trailblazers of Octant podcast, some of the most exciting aspects of Octant’s approach to Public Goods Funding, and what’s next for Epoch 7 and Octant V2.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-bonus-live-episode-exploring-the-octant-ecosystem-community-space--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, do not take any of this as investment advice and make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org/disclaimer.

Benji Leibowitz, COO at Molecule and co-founder of pump.science, is revolutionizing the Decentralized Science (DeSci) movement by leveraging blockchain to democratize research funding. He discusses how traditional funding models are failing, especially amid NIH cuts, and highlights the potential of IP tokens and crypto to foster independent research. The conversation also reveals how DeSci enhances transparency and engagement in scientific discovery, and introduces innovative funding mechanisms that invite broader community participation.