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

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.

Norbert Vadas, Head of Product at ZkCloud, has a rich background working with UNICEF and FAO before diving into Web3. He discusses how Zero-Knowledge (ZK) proving is transforming blockchain scalability and privacy, paving the way for a fairer internet. Norbert emphasizes the humanitarian applications of ZK proofs, from identity verification to decentralized voting. He also shares insights on the economic potential within Web3 and the future of decentralized cloud computing in enhancing security and sustainability.

In episode 193, we’re excited to welcome Sunny Lu, Founder of Vechain, a pioneering blockchain ecosystem that has been demonstrating the power of crypto to drive sustainability efforts since 2015.In this episode, you will learn:How blockchain can eliminate greenwashing and build trust in ESG & environmental initiatives.How Web3 empowers individuals, organizations, and businesses to create real world climate impact through VeBetterDAO.Lessons from Sunny Lu’s journey building a multi-billion-dollar, sustainability-focused cryptocurrency ecosystem.--Key Takeaways--Transforming Small Actions into Collective Impact with Blockchain: Web3 enables the digitization of positive actions, bringing them onchain to showcase collective impact. This creates a powerful marginal effect, where even small individual efforts contribute to a larger, verifiable movement toward sustainability.Fixing the Trust Deficit in Sustainability with Web3: A major issue in ESG initiatives is the lack of trust. Blockchain solves this by ensuring transparency—bringing sustainability data onchain, making it accessible, verifiable, and resistant to greenwashing.Ignore the Noise - Stay True to Your Vision: Web3’s fast-moving nature is both inspiring and overwhelming. Many founders get caught up chasing trends instead of sticking to their mission and making sure they have a solid product. Success comes from staying focused on your long-term vision, and user-growth, rather than jumping from fad to fad.2025 - The Year of Enterprise Adoption in Web3: Sunny predicts 2025 will be a breakout year for enterprise blockchain adoption. Expect to see more major partnerships between corporations and Web3 projects, as well as increased use of crypto rails for ESG initiatives and sustainability efforts.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-193-vechain-from-greenwashing-to-proof-tokenizing-esg-and-real-world-impact-with-blockchainThank 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 (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then 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, 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.

In episode 192, we’re excited to welcome Sandra Uwantege Hart, Humanitarian Lab Lead at Mercy Corps Ventures, to explore how blockchain, AI, and innovative funding models are helping to get aid to the right people—before disaster strikes.In this episode, you'll learnWhy the humanitarian aid sector is due for a fundamental shift, and how Anticipatory Action is flipping the script on disaster response.How blockchain and Web3 technology are transforming the speed, transparency, and efficiency of aid delivery.The role of Mercy Corps Ventures' Anticipatory Action Accelerator in funding groundbreaking solutions to build climate resilient communities.--Key Takeaways--Traditional humanitarian aid is reactive and inefficient – Most aid is deployed after disasters strike, leading to delays, high costs, and logistical challenges. A system designed around rapid response often fails to prevent suffering before it happens.Anticipatory Action + Web3 = Gamechanger – By using predictive analytics, data oracles, smart contracts, and decentralized funding, anticipatory action enables aid to be pre-positioned and deployed before disasters occur. Blockchain enhances efficiency, transparency, and trust in these life-saving interventions.The biggest barrier is mindset, not technology – Despite the clear benefits, anticipatory action struggles with adoption due to its complexity and the global tendency to prioritize reaction over prevention. Web3 can shift this dynamic by creating automated, transparent funding models that incentivize proactive aid.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-192-mercy-corps-ventures-how-web3-and-ai-are-transforming-humanitarian-aid-with-anticipatory-actionThank 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 (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then 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, 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.