Proof of Coverage

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor welcomes back Alireza Ghods, co-founder of Natix, to discuss a major milestone for the company. Alireza announces a game-changing partnership with Grab, Southeast Asia's leading super app—a strategic alliance that positions Grab as a key data customer for Natix's VX360 product while granting Natix access to Grab's advanced mapping technology. This marks a significant leap forward in Natix's mission to build the world's largest camera infrastructure without owning any cameras. Since December 2024, the company has grown rapidly, with nearly 250,000 registered drivers and over 170 million kilometers mapped across 171 countries. With VX360—an innovative 360-degree video plugin for Tesla vehicles—now shipping ahead of schedule, Alireza offers an inside look at how this partnership will unlock new revenue streams, accelerate autonomous mapmaking, and reshape the future of mobility.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:25 - Introduction to Natix and VX36001:35 - State of the Network: Growth and Updates02:12 - Shipping and User Experience of VX36003:41 - Announcement of Partnership with Grab04:58 - Details of the Partnership and Its Benefits08:04 - Economic Aspects of the Partnership10:22 - Focus on Data Collection and Monetization Strategy13:35 - Future Plans and Excitement for Autonomous Driving14:39 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action for Tesla DriversDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor and Sal spoke with Michael Cho about the future of robotics and AI, highlighting his projects FrodoBots and the new BitRobot network. Michael explained the challenges of testing embodied AI in the real world and introduced the idea of cross-embodiment—training models using data from diverse robots. He also shared how BitRobot uses crypto incentives to crowdsource data and how the meme coin SAM helps build community in a low-pressure way. The conversation offered a fun and thoughtful look into where robotics is headed.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:47 - Intersection of Robotics and AI02:50 - Real-World Evaluation vs. Digital AI06:00 - The Importance of Real-World Testing07:07 - Mapping and Navigation in Robotics08:12 - Value of Real-World Data for AI09:38 - Differences in Data Utility13:07 - Exploring Different Robotic Form Factors14:04 - Cross-Embodiment in Robotics16:35 - Introduction to BitRobot17:30 - Transition from Frotobots to BitRobot20:08 - Collaboration with Researchers and Competitions22:05 - Future Plans for BitRobot24:27 - The Role of Meme Coins in Community Building27:46 - Conclusion Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor sits down with Anna Kazlauskas, co-founder of Vana, to explore the intersection of AI and user-owned data. They discuss the resurgence of the crypto scene in San Francisco, fueled by advancements in AI, and the impact of DeepSeek on model training efficiency and data privacy. Anna shares her journey from MIT to co-founding Vana, a layer one blockchain enabling programmable data rights for AI. She introduces the concept of data DAOs—user-owned data collectives that negotiate better terms with platforms—highlighting the shift toward self-sovereign digital identities. The conversation also covers Vana's tokenomics and its mission to address AI's data shortage by empowering users with control and incentives.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:45 - Impact of DeepSeek on AI and User Privacy04:22 - User Awareness and Data Storage Concerns06:28 - The Shift in AI Narrative07:14 - Anna's Journey into User-Owned Data10:45 - Vana's Technical Framework and Privacy12:20 - The Need for Data Sovereignty in AI13:27 - Building a Layer 1 Blockchain15:51 - Data DAOs: A New Approach to Data Ownership17:15 - Understanding Data DAOs and Their Function22:47 - The Role of Data Ownership in Social Platforms24:51 - Negotiating Better Terms for Data Ownership26:40 - Bringing Data to Vana and AI Applications28:09 - Privacy-Preserving Compute Solutions29:22 - Tokenomics of Vana30:55 - Data DAO Specific Tokens and Their Role31:22 - Final Thoughts on Vana's Vision32:30 - Where to Find More InformationDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

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Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor speaks with Anirudh Pai, partner at Dragonfly Capital, about what it takes to build a successful crypto project and attract top investors. Anirudh highlights the importance of long-term demand strategies, demonstrating real customer engagement, and standing out in a competitive market. They explore the evolution of decentralized technologies, particularly in the energy sector, and the concept of commodity currencies like electrodollars, emphasizing the role of clean energy in technological progress. Anirudh also shares his insights on balancing learning, founder meetings, and supporting portfolio companies, along with his involvement in the Praxis project, which focuses on creating innovative living environments rooted in community and shared values. This conversation offers a wealth of insights into the crypto space, decentralized technologies, and the future of innovation.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction01:09 - Getting on the Radar of Investors02:59 - Preferred Communication Channels for Founders04:08 - Balancing Workload and Learning06:21 - Embracing Serendipity in Investing08:13 - Avoiding Pattern Matching in Investment Decisions09:34 - The Evolution of DePIN15:13 - Commodity Currencies and Their Future18:09 - The Role of Energy in Economic Growth19:53 - Challenges in Decentralized Energy Markets22:33 - Roadblocks to DePIN Advancement26:04 - Innovations in the Medallion System27:05 - The Future of Energy and Wireless DePIN's29:44 - Updates on Praxis and Community Living32:37 - Closing ThoughtsDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor is joined by Sal Gala (EV3), Florian Fournier (Threefold), and Jose Aycart (Share) to announce the DePIN Summit 2025 in Africa and discuss its significance. They explore the region's potential for technological disruption, the importance of local engagement and government collaboration, and the role of decentralized internet networks in driving innovation. With Africa already leading in digital payments and primed for new advancements, the Summit aims to connect global and local tech communities at a crucial moment for growth. The conversation highlights DePIN as a framework for new business models and the transformative opportunities ahead.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction 03:01 - DePIN: A Global Perspective05:55 - The Significance of Africa in the DePIN Movement08:49 - Building Infrastructure: Local Engagement and Government Relations12:11 - Innovations in Internet Connectivity in Africa15:09 - The Future of DePIN: Vision for the Summit18:02 - Excitement for the Upcoming DePIN Summit20:51 - ConclusionDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor and co-host James Lovely, an expert in structured financial products, welcome Brandon Goh, CEO and Co-founder of Treehouse Finance, to explore the intersection of traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi). Goh shares his journey from Morgan Stanley to crypto, discussing how innovations like Uniswap reshaped his perspective. The conversation covers risk and return in borrowing rates, Ethereum's proof-of-stake system as a crypto equivalent to the risk-free rate, and the differences between Ethereum and Bitcoin. Goh introduces Treehouse's T-Asset product, which enhances liquid staking yields through arbitrage strategies, and highlights the importance of decentralized benchmark rates like the Decentralized Offered Rate (D.O.R). They also examine risks such as rehypothecation and the need for reliable data in DeFi, concluding with a discussion on institutional adoption and the infrastructure required for its growth.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction03:09 - Brandon's Transition from TradFi to Crypto05:12 - Core Concepts of Borrowing Rates in TradFi07:59 - On-Chain Rates and Their Implications09:05 - Comparing Bitcoin and Ethereum as Risk-Free Rates12:22 - Staking Yield as a Risk-Free Rate Analogy14:08 - Liquid Staking Explained21:34 - Treehouse's T-Asset Product Overview23:46 - Decentralized Finance and Risk Considerations29:30 - Institutional Involvement in DeFi31:12 - Expanding to Other Chains and Market Strategy32:34 - Introduction to Decentralized Offered Rates (DOR)41:34 - Building a Decentralized Benchmark Rate48:09 - Incentives and Accuracy in the DOR FrameworkDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor and Mahesh welcomed Vinny Lingham, a prominent figure in crypto and tech. Vinny discussed his latest ventures, including Animal, a film exploring the benefits of the carnivore diet, and shared his personal health transformation. He reflected on the challenges of the 2018-2019 crypto winter, the evolving regulatory landscape, and his work with Civic, a decentralized identity protocol aimed at enhancing trust in digital transactions. The conversation also covered AI and decentralized computing, with Vinny highlighting projects like Render and Vast.ai as potential disruptors to traditional data centers. Throughout the discussion, he encouraged listeners to challenge conventional narratives in both health and technology, wrapping up with an invitation to connect with him on Twitter for further insights.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:27 - Upcoming Movie: Animal02:56 - Misconceptions About Diets06:42 - Challenging Established Narratives08:06 - Civic and Decentralized Identity10:42 - Regulatory Challenges in Crypto13:11 - Transparency in Elections14:15 - Bear Market Experience17:15 - Investing in Solana and Filecoin20:27 - AI Video Conferencing Platform: Rumi21:11 - DePIN Strategy and AI Development25:06 - Future of Decentralized GPUs26:44 - Closing Thoughts Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor sits down with Tory Green to discuss how Io.net is revolutionizing AI infrastructure with affordable, decentralized compute power. They explore the challenges of centralized cloud providers, how DeepSeek underscores the need for decentralized AI solutions, and why Solana's speed and community support make it the ideal foundation for Io.net. Tory also breaks down the network's transparency, staking mechanisms, and competitive edge against AWS, GCP, and Azure, along with Io.net's plans for product launches, partnerships, and mainstream adoption.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:50 The Impact of DeepSeek on AI06:04 The Journey to Decentralized AI08:46 Understanding Io.net's Core Problem12:00 Io.net's Solution and Market Position15:09 Overcoming Latency Challenges18:04 Choosing Solana for Io.net's Infrastructure21:03 Token Utility and Community Engagement23:55 Future Aspirations for Io.netDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor and Mahesh welcome Santiago Santos, a prominent figure in the crypto space and co-host of the popular Empire podcast. Santiago shares his vision for the future of private equity and crypto, highlighting the transformative potential of open-source systems and the rapid movement of capital in the crypto world. He discusses his approach to leveraging crypto to drive value in private equity portfolios and emphasizes the importance of integrating stablecoins with decentralized infrastructure networks (DePIN) to accelerate technology adoption. Additionally, he explores the readiness of the tech industry to support large-scale crypto initiatives and stresses the need for the industry to aim higher. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction 01:25 - Santiago's Podcast Experience01:45 - The Need for Crypto Education04:01 - Architecting Society with Crypto06:57 - The Beauty of Open Source Systems07:44 - The Challenges and Opportunities in Crypto09:56 - Investing with a Broader Perspective12:51 - Personal Motivation and Meaning in Work13:36 - The Role of Technology in Daily Life15:17 - Convincing Others About Crypto's Value18:30 - The Shift from Investor to Founder20:34 - Headwinds Facing Traditional Private Equity24:09 - The Future of Private Equity and Crypto25:34 - Onboarding Users into the Crypto Space27:55 - The Vision for Inversion Capital29:11 - The Role of Helium in the Crypto Ecosystem36:09 - The Importance of Consumer Experience37:32 - Assumptions for Inversion's Success39:57 - The Role of Technology in Crypto's Future41:03 - Helium Improvement Proposal and Inversion44:05 - Conclusion and Future OutlookDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor welcomes Miguel from Nillion to discuss the company's latest endeavors. Miguel shares insights into Nillion's motivation for launching an internal podcast designed to provide builders and developers with a platform to showcase their projects. The conversation explores the benefits of open-sourcing AI models, highlighting how Nillion leveraged DeepSeek's R1 model to develop a privacy-preserving "blind guru" chatbot. Additionally, the episode examines the broader implications of DeepSeek's open-source approach and the ongoing challenges surrounding privacy and security in AI development.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction00:40 - Privacy-Preserving AI: The Impact of DeepSeek's Model04:13 - Trust and Privacy in AI Agents10:17 - How Web3 Can Benefit from Seamless Privacy Integration18:31 - The Connection Between Web2, Web3, and Privacy with ZkTLS22:17 - A Look at Privacy Solutions26:00 - Unique Use Cases for Nillion Technology30:54 - Ways to Get Involved with the CommunityDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor speaks with Kevin McCordic, Head of Growth at Meet Monad, about the latest developments in the Monad ecosystem as they prepare for their Testnet launch. They discuss the volatile crypto market, likening it to a high-stakes game similar to Squid Game, where investor sentiment shifts unpredictably. Kevin shares his journey from venture investing to Monad, highlighting his evolving role in marketing, community building, and product strategy. The conversation explores Monad's mission to make blockchain development more accessible through EVM integration, fostering innovation and expanding its developer base. Kevin also emphasizes the importance of community engagement in driving growth and previews exciting projects within the ecosystem. The episode concludes with a call for listeners to follow Monad on Twitter and stay tuned for the Testnet launch, marking a pivotal moment for the platform's future.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:39 - Market Sentiment and Development Challenges in Crypto03:23 - Exploring Monad04:44 - Evolution of Roles at Monad: From Branding to Testnet Launch07:10 - Building the Ecosystem and Preparing for Testnet Launch10:33 - From Security to Opportunity in the Crypto Space11:56 - From Angel Investing to Joining the Team at Monad20:01 - The Impact of Fast Blockchains on Crypto Development25:22 - Leveraging Twitter and Memes for Growth in Crypto36:13 - Monad's Growth Strategies and Community EngagementDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpodConnor sits down with Evan Tong from Monad to discuss the evolving intersection of crypto and AI agents. They explore how agents could become the new websites, democratizing digital interactions much like WordPress did for website creation. Evan highlights Monad's mission to build a high-performance, EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain, enabling smoother experiences for developers and users. The conversation delves into the importance of parallel execution environments for multi-agent systems, predicting a future with billions of on-chain agents before billions of human users. They also discuss the role of ecosystem building, flexibility in adapting to the crypto industry's rapid changes, and supporting founders and innovative projects. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:33 - Exploring AI-Driven User Experiences in Crypto08:19 - Performance and Compatibility in the EVM 11:36 - Lessons in Ecosystem Building in Crypto14:42 - Comparing Early Blockchain Experiences16:13 - Bringing Professional Standards to Crypto18:47 - Building a Founder-Friendly Ecosystem at Monad20:35 - Innovations in DeFi, Consumer Tech, and AI25:26 - Engaging Founders and CommunitiesDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media:https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor and Sal talk with Diego de Tomas, co-founder and CEO of Over the Reality (OVR), about building one of the world's most extensive 3D mapping platforms. Diego shares how OVR has generated over 100,000 3D maps since 2020, accumulating 55 terabytes of data through a community-driven process using their app and advanced AI. He explains the groundbreaking Visual Positioning System (VPS), offering centimeter-level accuracy for AR, robotics, and ride-sharing applications. Diego also discusses OVR's shift beyond crypto into Web2 markets, launching a subscription model for businesses, and the exciting potential of spatial computing to transform how we interact with our environment.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:22 - Meet Diego de Tomas and OVR Overview01:10 - OVR's Ambitious Goals and Achievements02:06 - Comparison with Niantic and Data Quality03:52 - User Experience: Mapping with OVR05:00 - Backend Process of Creating 3D Maps06:47 - The Need for Visual Positioning System (VPS)08:22 - Use Cases for VPS Technology10:38 - VPS vs. GPS: Understanding the Differences14:10 - User Involvement in OVR Mapping15:26 - Factors Influencing Location Value in OVR19:45 - Recent Funding and Future Plans25:21 - Investment Thesis Behind OVR28:10 - Future Directions and Business Model Expansion30:59 - Training Large Geospatial Models35:15 - Open Source Plans for the Model36:24 - Conclusion and Community EngagementDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media:https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor and Mahesh speak with Roy, founder of Up Network, about the evolving landscape of AI, consumer devices, and crypto. Roy shares insights on building user incentives for technologies like the Agentic OS, which simplifies the crypto experience, and explores the competitive dynamics between the U.S. and China in AI, emphasizing market-driven invention and open-source collaboration. Drawing from his background in gaming and advertising, Roy discusses UpNetwork's vision to integrate software and hardware, focusing on device-agnostic solutions that enhance smartphones and smart glasses with Web3 capabilities. He highlights the importance of accessible technology and rewards for user engagement, touching on the potential of a token within the Movement ecosystem to connect users, developers, and manufacturers. Roy's forward-thinking perspective makes this a compelling exploration of the future of AI, crypto, and consumer tech. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:40 - DeepSeek02:59 - AI Innovation and Open Source Trends08:29 - Up Network and the Evolution of Crypto and AI13:46 - Exploring the Shift from Smartphones to Smart Glasses14:22 - The Evolution of Smartphones and AI20:27 - Exploring Device-Agnostic Web3 Integration28:41 - Connecting Users and Data in a Decentralized EcosystemDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media:https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor welcomed back Jeffrey Manner, co-founder of Roam, to discuss their latest advancements in Wi-Fi and decentralized identity. Jeffrey detailed Roam's live pilot program, where users earn points by contributing to the network, validating Wi-Fi connections, and adding public hotspots. They explored the concept of Open Roaming, an initiative under the Wireless Broadband Alliance that aims to create seamless Wi-Fi experiences akin to mobile network roaming, with Roam positioned as a Web3 identity provider enabling secure connections across millions of hotspots. The conversation delved into Roam's hardware strategy, including their Wi-Fi routers and onboarding existing Open Roaming nodes, as well as their unique approach to decentralized identity and verifiable credentials. Jeffrey also shared plans for monetization, potential telco partnerships, and expanding services within their distributed network.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:34 - Pilot Burning Pool and Token Mechanics02:32 - Earning Points in the Roam Network04:28 - Understanding Open Roaming07:34 - Roam's Hardware Strategy10:44 - OpenWRT and Community Upgrades11:48 - Building on Solana13:25 - Decentralized Identity and Verifiable Credentials15:42 - Monetization Strategies and Demand Side18:28 - Future of Telcos and Roam's Role20:24 - Coordination and Incentivization in Open Roaming25:24 - Looking Ahead to 202526:15 - Where to Find Roam OnlineDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageIn this episode, Connor speaks with Doug Petkanics from Livepeer about the evolution of open video infrastructure. They discuss Livepeer's transition to Arbitrum, how it leverages idle GPUs for cost-effective video transcoding, and its expansion into AI-powered video processing, which is driving new revenue. Doug also shares insights on Ethereum's ecosystem, competition from Solana, and Livepeer's growing $7M treasury, fueled by community governance.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:30 - Vitalik Buterin and Ethereum Developments02:46 - Livepeer's Technical Overview03:21 - Understanding Video Processing08:30 - Livepeer's Market Position10:15 - Cost Structure and User Experience11:30 - Success Stories with Livepeer12:30 - Cost Reduction Mechanisms15:42 - Current State of the Livepeer Network20:17 - AI Integration in Livepeer22:12 - Advice for Founders in Crypto25:22 - Go-to-Market Strategy27:29 - AI Video Editing Potential30:51 - Livepeer's Treasury and Funding34:34 - Community Engagement and Call to ActionDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_CoverageConnor sits down with Travis Kling, a prominent crypto hedge fund trader, about the intersection of faith, culture, and cryptocurrency. They discuss the recent surge in Bible sales, which Travis attributes to global instability driving a renewed interest in faith, as well as the decline of religious affiliation in America amid the rise of the internet and challenges like Christian nationalism. Travis shares his views on societal trends, including a potential spiritual resurgence, and explores the concept of spiritual warfare in the context of the 2024 election, linking cultural issues like gender identity and abortion to broader moral struggles. He reflects on his personal faith journey, recounting how challenges and a move to New York City deepened his spirituality. The conversation concludes with Travis's thoughts on the future of cryptocurrency, including the potential for a strategic Bitcoin reserve under a new administration and its implications for the financial landscape.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:04 - Exploring the Decline of Faith in Modern America06:51 - Faith and Science11:31 - Reevaluating New Atheism 16:26 - Political Polarization24:02 - Future of Bitcoin in U.S. Politics 35:26 - Finding Faith and Purpose56:16 - Journey of Faith: Deconstruction and Reconstruction01:24:48 - Exploring Tokenomics and AI Agents in Emerging Technologies01:30:10 - Hybrid Intelligence - The Intersection of Human Oversight and AI01:37:16 - Exploring the Impact of Religion on Human Advancement01:43:37 - Christianity and Human AdvancementDisclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_Coverage Connor speaks with Hal Smith Stevens, CEO of Rilla Network, about their mission to revolutionize live streaming with peer-to-peer technology. Hal shares insights from Rilla's recent $3.5 million seed round and his experiences as a third-time founder, highlighting the importance of building strong networks and finding the right investors. They discuss Rilla's decentralized content delivery network, which leverages unused upstream bandwidth from viewers to reduce costs for broadcasters and transform passive audiences into active contributors. Hal explains how this approach enhances engagement and reduces expenses, offering examples like cost savings for sports broadcasters. The conversation also touches on Rilla's plans for a token to distribute value within their ecosystem, showcasing the potential of blockchain and peer-to-peer technology to shape the future of live streaming. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:35 - Seed Round Experience 01:58 - Advice for First-Time Founders 05:41 - The Importance of Networking 07:24 - Understanding Real Networks 07:36 - Decentralized CDN Concept 08:00 - Core Technology Overview 09:05 - Live Streaming Use Case 12:55 - Transforming Passive Audiences 14:03 - Explaining the Peer-to-Peer Model 19:41 - Concrete Example of Live Streaming 20:59 - Value Attribution and Redistribution 26:25 - Supply Side and Hardware Requirements 29:43 - Blockchain Choice Discussion 30:58 - Future Use Cases Beyond Sports 32:01 - Building a Protocol vs. Application 33:38 - Token Design and Future Plans Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage Media: https://x.com/Proof_Coverage Connor explores the world of cloud gaming and decentralized computing with Jeff from YOM, uncovering how the company transforms idle GPU cycles into revenue for gamers. With cloud gaming user numbers tripling from 2021 to 2023 and projected revenues of $143 billion by 2032, Jeff explains how YOM addresses high costs and latency issues, enabling high-quality gaming without dedicated consoles. They discuss YOM's use of blockchain for payments via a deflationary token model, their strategies to attract gamers and studios, and the potential for AAA titles in crypto gaming. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:42 - The Growth of Cloud Gaming 02:48 - The Future of Gaming Consoles 03:09 - Cloud Gaming vs. Traditional Gaming 05:33 - Seamless Gaming Across Devices 07:12 - Building in the Solana Ecosystem 09:01 - Partnerships and Multi-Chain Strategies 11:24 - Demand and Supply Strategy 13:20 - Market Demand for Cloud Gaming 15:28 - Current Node Signups and Future Plans 16:23 - Attracting GPU Owners to the Network 19:03 - Where to Find More Information Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

In the first episode of our new podcast, Connor and Nic Carter explore the implications of the upcoming Trump presidency and recent political shifts on the crypto industry. Nic shares insights from his recent trip to Washington, where he met with key members of Congress to discuss their legislative priorities with respect to crypto and technology broadly. The episode explores the implications of ending "Chokepoint 2.0," the potential for a stablecoin bill, and the need for crypto-friendly legislation. Nic also touches on challenges with the SEC, the Strategic National Bitcoin Reserve, and the future of Bitcoin and the broader crypto market. They discuss the role of corporate investments, the evolution of CoinMetrics, the founding of Castle Island Venture along with Nic's personal journey in faith and combat sports. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 05:43 - Key Priorities for Crypto Regulation and Banking Access 08:52 - Critique of the Hagerty Bill and Discussion on Financial Thresholds 13:57 - Assessing Bitcoin's Future Amid Political Discourse 16:14 - Future of Crypto Regulation and Priorities 18:27 - Shifting Sentiments in Crypto Regulations 20:13 - Tax Incentives and Global Bitcoin Mining Dynamics 23:07 - Bitcoin Mining and Sovereign Nations' Strategies 24:53 - Startups, Bitcoin, and Market Dynamics: Insights on Crypto Trends 34:28 - Building Crypto Infrastructure: The Genesis of Castle Island 38:48 - Startups and Wiffio Moments 39:45 - Evolution of Coinmetrics: From Small Funds to Institutional Focus 41:36 - Finding Purpose Through Bitcoin and Venture Capital 43:15 - Maintaining Focus with a Small Team in VC 46:39 - Supporting Founders: The Evolving Role of Venture Capitalists 50:58 - Building a Career Through Media and Writing 53:18 - Finding Your Voice in the Digital Age: The Power of Content Creation 55:42 - Specialization and Evolution in Crypto Investing 01:00:06 - Impact of Real-Time Payments on Stablecoin Adoption 01:16:10 - From Fanboy Moments to Faith and Future Ventures Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Connor and Sal sit down with Luis Ramirez, founder of Mawari, to explore the future of augmented and virtual reality. Luis shares how Mawari is shaping AR as a tool for immersive, social experiences rather than dystopian futures, emphasizing the importance of presence in AR interactions. They discuss advancements like Meta's Orion AR glasses, Mawari's focus on content delivery over hardware, and the integration of AR and VR into multifunctional devices. Luis also shares insights on distributed computing networks for immersive experiences and Mawari's shift into Web3, leveraging underutilized hardware for decentralized 3D rendering. The conversation dives into challenges, opportunities, and monetization paths for developers, offering a compelling look at how Mawari is paving the way for the 3D internet. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:34 - Online Presence 01:43 - Meta's Orion AR Glasses 02:46 - The Future of AR and VR Hardware 03:43 - Haptic Feedback Suits: A Niche Technology 06:30 - Power of Vision in Immersive Experiences 09:04 - Opportunities in XR Development 10:30 - Compute Needs for XR Experiences 12:51 - The Role of Edge Computing in XR 15:11 - Content Creation in XR 16:37 - Transitioning from Web2 to Web3 18:43 - Building a Decentralized Network 21:22 - AR/VR and AI Cloud Architectures 23:32 - Go-to-Market Strategy 25:50 - Utilizing Existing Hardware for XR 27:14 - Current Revenue Model 32:47 - Call to Action Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Connor and Sal sit down with Sandeep Nailwal of Polygon. Sandeep reflects on challenges faced by founders, including tough decisions around layoffs, project management, and preserving company culture during rapid growth, emphasizing the importance of character-building in difficult times. The conversation explores the Polygon ecosystem's evolution, addressing regulatory hurdles, market shifts, and the critical role of the AggLayer in enabling a trustless internet with up to a million interconnected chains. Sandeep also shares insights on the potential of decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN) and their place within Polygon's strategy, expressing optimism about their future despite industry challenges. This episode offers an in-depth look at blockchain's dynamic landscape, adaptability in leadership, and Polygon's vision for a decentralized future. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:14 - Reflections on Building Character Through Adversity 01:45 - The Impact of Regulatory Changes on the Crypto Ecosystem 03:40 - Polygon's Journey and Internal Challenges 05:46 - Leadership Transition: Finding the Right CEO 12:13 - Focusing on Growth: The Role of the Chairman 13:44 - The Evolution of Polygon's Product Strategy 19:09 - Understanding Polygon's Core Products 29:29 - The Vision for a Trustless Internet 36:37 - Competition Landscape: Who is Polygon Up Against? 41:24 - The Future of DePIN and Its Importance to Polygon Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Mahesh and John Wu, President of Ava Labs, are joined by J. Paul Meyer, founder of Collar Network, to explore innovative solutions in decentralized finance (DeFi). J. Paul shares how Collar Network, a smart contract-based lending protocol, helps crypto investors borrow against their holdings in a hedged, non-liquidatable manner—addressing challenges like tax implications and liquidity. Drawing from his Goldman Sachs background, J. Paul discusses the need for financial services tailored to crypto's emerging wealthy class and the risks of replicating traditional finance's mistakes. They also touch on regulation, market behavior, and the future of Bitcoin, AI in finance, and Web3 value capture. Check out Collar's beta platform at beta.collarprotocol.xyz  Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:16 - The Role of ETFs in Tokenization 03:10 - Discussion on Goldman Sachs and Its Relevance 06:35 - The Impact of Technology on Financial Services 08:51 - The Consolidation of the Banking Sector 10:19 - Competing with Large Financial Institutions 13:27 - Weaknesses of Large Financial Institutions 17:02 - Overview of Collar Networks and Its Mission 20:32 - Comparison with Traditional Margin-Based Borrowing 22:44 - User Experience in Financial Products 24:51 - Future Product Development at Collar 26:20 - Finding Liquidity in DeFi Markets 28:10 - Working with Major Financial Institutions 30:57 - Concerns About Repeating Past Financial Mistakes 33:02 - Future Strategies for Collar Network 36:54 - Political and Regulatory Considerations 38:27 - Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions 41:02 - Closing Remarks  Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Mahesh welcomed back Ash Ahmed, founder of Axal, to discuss exciting developments at his company and the broader implications of AI agents in crypto. Ash highlighted Axal's rapid growth, the launch of their new product, Gekko—a virtual agent for trading—and its integration with the Autopilot platform to simplify crypto portfolio management. He emphasized the importance of a "fair launch" for the Gekko token, with no team allocation, to build trust and align value with functionality. The conversation also explored AI agents as a new asset class, the role of community engagement in Axal's growth, and Ash's advice for founders to act boldly and prioritize transparency. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:11 - Overview of Axal's Vision and Team Growth 02:49 - Diverse Team and Guerrilla Marketing Strategies 03:41 - Podcasting and Content Creation Efforts 05:25 - Introduction of Gecko and Its Purpose 08:34 - Understanding the Value of Agents 09:22 - Fair Launch Concept Explained 10:16 - Community Engagement and Investor Reactions 12:15 - Utility and Future Plans for Gecko 14:21 - The Future of Agent Tokens in the Market 17:06 - Launching Gekko: Technical Insights 20:28 - Advice for Founders Considering Token Launches 22:46 - Navigating Investor Relations and Legalities 25:50 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Connor spoke with Harry Dewhirst, CEO and co-founder of 375ai, formerly known as Zeppelin, about his journey from founding a data company sold to Singtel to leading 375ai's efforts in building decentralized networks for data collection. Harry shared insights into the company's ambitious goal of identifying over 10 million vehicles daily through their AI-powered hardware, the 375 Edge, and their partnership with Outfront Media. They also discussed the launch of 375ai's incentivized testnet, allowing users to earn tokens through the 375Go app by contributing passive data. Harry explained the significance of the company's name, linked to Nevada's extraterrestrial highway, and how the data could be used by hedge funds for market analysis. Additionally, they explored 375ai's decision to build on the Solana blockchain and their tokenomics. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - Harry's Background and Entrepreneurial Journey 02:40 - Transition from Zeppelin to 375ai 04:20 - Zeppelin's Initial Mission and Partnerships 06:30 - Deployment Strategies and Learning Experiences 08:40 - Significance of the Name 375ai 09:50 - Testnet and Community Engagement 12:00 - 375 Edge Devices and Their Functionality 15:00 - Future Plans for 375 Street Devices 17:00 - Real-World Applications of Collected Data 19:00 - Building on the Solana Ecosystem 21:00 - Tokenomics and Incentive Structures 24:00 - Quality Control and Data Demand Strategies 25:30 - Call to Action and Community Engagement Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Connor and Sal spoke with Robin from Wingbits, a company revolutionizing the aviation and drone industries with advanced flight data solutions. Robin discussed the $22 billion ADS-B market, Wingbits' innovative hardware for tracking flights and drones, and plans for a token-incentivized model to enhance data quality. With 2,000 live stations globally and an upcoming mainnet launch, the conversation also highlighted their partnership with Geodnet to improve location data and their vision of integrating Web3 principles into a sustainable business model. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:38 - Exploring Productivity with Wearable Tech 02:28 - Winter Sports Brand and VC Discussions 04:54 - Understanding Wingbits Impact on Aviation Data 07:40 - Advanced Flight Data Technologies 11:09 - Incentivizing Flight Data Contributions 15:40 - Targeting the Web3 Community in Flight Tracking 21:47 - Future of ADS-B Technology in Aviation 26:00 - The Wingbits Network Expansion 27:12 - Update on Wingbits Network and Upcoming Launch Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Mahesh and guest host John Wu sit down with Austin King, CEO of Omni Labs, to explore the future of cryptocurrency and decentralized finance (DeFi). Austin shares his journey from Harvard College to building and selling his first company to Ripple, reflecting on the lessons from the 2017 crypto boom that shaped his vision for blockchain interoperability. He discusses innovative design trends like "intents and solvers," which simplify cross-chain transactions for users, and Omni Labs' mission to abstract blockchain complexities, enabling seamless participation in the on-chain economy. Austin also opens up about leadership challenges, including pivoting after significant fundraising, and emphasizes the value of transparency, collaboration, and a strong support network. The conversation concludes with insights into the evolving crypto landscape and Austin's vision for a neutral and open economic system. Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 00:31 - Introduction to Omni and Solvernet 01:30 - Austin King's Journey from Harvard to Crypto 03:02 - Identifying the Need for Interoperability 05:20 - The Ripple Acquisition Story 06:43 - Understanding the XRP Community 10:19 - Misunderstandings About XRP and Ripple 14:24 - Cults and Communities in Crypto 16:21 - Building Omni and Its Vision 20:56 - The Importance of Interoperability 23:24 - Pivoting After Fundraising 28:01 - Support Networks for Founders 30:33 - Conviction in Decision-Making 33:37 - Overview of the Omni Token and Network 39:04 - Defining Success in the Crypto Space 41:34 - Long-Term Vision for Crypto Development Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Sal sits down with Alexandra from Staex, a company redefining IoT through a trusted, decentralized network. They discuss the inefficiencies of traditional network protocols for modern IoT and how Staex's approach re-architects infrastructure to reduce overhead and enhance security. Alexandra highlights Staex's impact, including saving a U.S. client with 2,000 charging stations $100,000 annually by optimizing data transmission. She also shares use cases like anchoring battery data on-chain for regulatory compliance and using drones to measure electromagnetic fields. The conversation reveals Staex's shift from a decentralization-first pitch to a focus on efficiency and cost savings, and Alexandra invites builders to join the evolution of DePIN and the machine economy. This episode offers a compelling look at how IoT, blockchain, and regulatory compliance are converging to reshape industries. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:31 - Overview of Staex and IoT Challenges 01:40 - Alexandra's Background in IoT Networking 05:26 - The Monolithic Approach of Staex 08:09 - Evolving the Pitch to Enterprises 10:33 - Understanding Cost Savings in IoT 12:12 - Industrial Use Cases for Staex 15:19 - Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities 17:19 - Current Stage and Future Plans for Staex 20:16 - Alexandra's Aspirations Beyond Staex 21:47 - Call to Action for Builders and Collaborators Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Connor welcomes Sami, former co-host of the Building in Public podcast, to explore Bittensor, a decentralized AI platform revolutionizing how intelligence is developed and shared. They discuss Bittensor's potential to challenge centralized AI models like OpenAI, its unique decentralized approach with specialized subnets, and the importance of financial incentives for open-source innovation. Sami highlights the challenges of emission distribution and the community's dedication to improving the protocol, expressing optimism about Bittensor's future. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:19 - Recap of Previous Bittensor Episode 02:05 - Sami's Experience with Bittensor 03:03 - What Bittensor Means for the Average Person 05:17 - Importance of Decentralized AI 06:36 - Open Source and Financial Incentives 08:43 - The Power of Open Source Innovation 10:07 - Crowdsourcing Intelligence in AI 12:33 - Comparing Kaggle and Bittensor 14:32 - Incentives for Contributors in Bittensor 15:14 - Challenges and Improvements in Bittensor 18:00 - Community Commitment to Bittensor 20:16 - The Future of Bittensor and AI 21:11 - Sami's Journey and Conviction in Bittensor 25:47 - Closing Remarks and Resources Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Sal sits down with Nils, founder and CEO of Auki Labs, to explore the future of spatial intelligence, machine perception, and augmented reality. Nils shares how his journey began with a vision for AR overlays in tabletop games like Warhammer, ultimately leading to breakthroughs in spatial computing. They discuss the potential of DePIN to make AI more accessible, drawing parallels between AR's evolution and human language. Nils addresses the limitations of current AR tech, such as battery life and processing power, and proposes new types of wearable devices as a solution. The conversation also delves into Auki's token system, which incentivizes contributions to a decentralized machine perception network. This episode offers a compelling look at the future of AR, robotics, and human-machine interaction. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:37 - Sponsor Message: Polygon 01:00 - Introduction to Nils and Auki Labs 02:02 - Inspiration Behind Auki and Spatial Computing 05:36 - DePIN: AI and Its Resources 06:52 - Terence McKenna and the Evolution of Language 09:58 - Augmented Reality as Humanity's Oldest Project 10:50 - The Future of Robotics and Human Language 14:32 - Decentralized Mapping and Positioning 15:57 - The Inevitable Global Movement of DePIN 16:27 - Memetic Engineering: A Career Overview 20:27 - The Concept of Memes and Their Impact 25:41 - Auki's Business Model and Go-to-Market Strategy 27:30 - AR Notes and Communication in Retail 30:53 - AI's Role in Retail Efficiency 33:44 - Form Factors for Spatial Computing 40:03 - Decentralized Collaborative Spatial Computing 41:51 - Auki's Token and Crypto Strategy Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Sal talks to Al, the founder of Koii, about their platform that lets users run decentralized apps on personal computers. They discuss Koii's new feature allowing token staking and rewards, creating an open marketplace for developers and users. Al shares his journey from blockchain education to building Koii, driven by a passion for technology's impact, particularly in medicine. The conversation highlights how Koii simplifies decentralization, making it accessible even to those with little technical knowledge. Al emphasizes Koii's mission to lower barriers for developers and promote community-driven projects. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:15 - Background and Journey to Koii 06:07 - User Experience and Node Installation 08:55 - Financial Incentives vs. Community Engagement 12:57 - Developer Token Integration and Ecosystem 13:36 - Comparison with Other Crypto Projects 18:57 - Decentralization and Node Sales Discussion 24:52 - Closing Thoughts and Future of Decentralized Products Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Sal sat down with Alireza and Ulrich from Natix to explore their groundbreaking work with VX360, a 360-degree camera system designed to generate near-miss driving scenarios for autonomous vehicle testing. With over 190,000 registered drivers and 100 million kilometers of road covered, Natix focuses on dynamic, real-time data rather than static mapping. Alireza shared insights on AI, deep learning, and the growing importance of real-world data in autonomous driving, while Ulrich detailed how VX360 captures critical video data for scenario generation and object detection. The conversation also covered Natix's first paying client, collaborations within the autonomous driving space, and a call-to-action for Tesla owners to become early adopters of VX360. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:34 - Sponsor Message: Polygon Labs 00:55 - AI and DePIN: A New Frontier 02:07 - Dash Cam Footage: Use Cases and Applications 04:22 - Current Status: Drivers and Road Coverage 05:55 - Dynamic Data vs. Unique Kilometers 06:48 - Collaboration with Other Mapping Companies 08:52 - Overview of VX360 Product and Its Purpose 09:22 - Scenario Generation for Autonomous Vehicles 11:24 - Importance of 360 Video Data 12:22 - Tesla's Role and Compatibility with VX360 14:22 - Monetization and Target Customers 16:30 - Messari Copilot Ad 17:23 - Token Economics and Revenue Accrual 20:11 - Scenario Focus Over Kilometers Driven 21:35 - Monetizing Street Level Imagery 22:13 - First Paying Client and Future Prospects 25:28 - Scaling Demand and Product Development 28:00 - Revenue Accrual to the Token 29:52 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod This episode features Reffo, co-founder of Puffpaw, a project blending vaping with blockchain technology to create a "vape-to-earn" model that helps users monitor nicotine intake and incentivizes quitting through rewards. Reffo discusses Puffpaw's smart vaporizers, which track puff count and nicotine levels via a Bluetooth-connected app, promoting healthier habits and community engagement. The conversation covers Puffpaw's team expertise, their choice to build on Berachain, and their $6 million seed round. Reffo also shares insights on fundraising and the potential impact of Puffpaw's health data on vaping research, emphasizing user privacy and control. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:26 - The Problem with Current Vaping Practices 02:00 - Founders' Background and Inspiration 04:00 - Overview of Genesis Pods and Smart Vape 05:30 - Features of the Smart Vape Device 08:00 - Social Engagement and Gamification 10:00 - Challenges in the Vape Industry 11:00 - Token Utility and Revenue Model 14:00 - Health Data and Research Opportunities 17:00 - Advertising Potential on Vape Screens 19:00 - Building on Berachain 22:00 - Fundraising Experience and Investor Reactions 25:00 - Advice for First Movers in Fundraising 28:00 - The Role of Angel Investors 30:00 - Closing Thoughts and Invitation for Discussion Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

We were joined by Deniz from Soarchain, a company revolutionizing the mobility industry through innovative data solutions. Deniz discusses the oligopolistic nature of the automotive sector, challenges with data ownership, and how Soarchain empowers car owners to reclaim and monetize their vehicle data using a secure hardware device connected to the OBD2 port. He highlights the importance of decentralized data management, Soarchain's progress with nearly 20,000 cars on their testnet, partnerships with major companies, and the upcoming transition to the Solana blockchain. This conversation showcases how Soarchain is transforming mobility with blockchain technology. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:26 - Sponsor Message: Polygon Labs 00:54 - Challenges in Mobility and Connectivity 04:19 - Data Ownership and Siloing Issues 06:10 - Soarchain's Approach to Data Utilization 09:14 - User Empowerment and Data Monetization 12:13 - Connecting Cars to the Network 14:07 - Comparison with DIMO 18:38 - Data Privacy and User Experience 19:45 - Current Scale and Testnet Success 21:05 - Revenue Potential and Customer Profiles 23:10 - Innovative Use Cases and Applications 25:47 - Transition to Solana and Token Launch 29:55 - Community Engagement Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod In this episode of Building in Public, Rich and Shaan from XNET discussed their progress as a decentralized neutral host mobile operator. They explored the XIP-10 proposal to reduce token supply and its benefits for the community. Rich highlighted XNET's demand-side GTM, enabling millions to connect via existing carriers, with growth potential in the U.S. market. They covered MNOs vs. MVNOs, international expansion, and the Solana ecosystem's supportive culture. Updates included funding milestones, Sphere Pay and Kamino integrations, and plans to onboard millions of users to Solana, showcasing XNET's vision for decentralized mobile networks. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:41 - Discussion on XIP-10 and Token Burns 03:56 - Understanding XNET's Business Model 06:25 - Customer Segments: MNOs vs. MVNOs 10:09 - International Expansion and Roaming Opportunities 12:29 - Wi-Fi and Cellular Spectrum in Global Deployments 14:05 - Transition from Polygon to Solana 16:50 - Community Growth and Social Engagement 18:31 - Exciting Developments with XNET Foundation 20:49 - Meme Coins and Retail Engagement 22:31 - Scaling Supply Side through Brownfield Deployments 28:37 - Upcoming Features and Integrations 30:18 - Where to Find More Information on XNET Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod In this episode, Kai Wawrzinek, co-founder of Impossible Cloud Network, shared his vision for decentralized cloud services. Drawing on his experience building $B+ Goodgame Studios, he highlighted the demand for scalable cloud solutions. Kai discussed the challenges of competing with AWS and emphasized decentralization's benefits, like lower latency and resilience. He detailed Impossible Cloud's enterprise-grade object storage, already serving 1,000+ customers, and the success of their testnet with 100,000 users. With a token launch planned for Q1 2025, Kai stressed building a collaborative ecosystem for decentralized cloud innovation. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:32 - Sponsor Message: Polygon Labs 01:06 - Goodgame Studios and Goodgame Empire 01:29 - Building a Gaming Studio: Lessons Learned 04:18 - Transitioning to Cloud Services in Gaming 04:42 - The Need for Decentralized Cloud Services 08:29 - Benefits of a Decentralized Network 10:43 - Impossible Cloud Network's Vision 12:43 - Focus on Demand Side and Initial Use Case 14:54 - Testnet Results and Community Engagement 15:43 - B2B Approach and Compliance Requirements 20:07 - Revenue Pipeline and Growth of Object Storage Product 22:10 - Token Launch Plans and Chain Selection 24:11 - Tokenomics and Utility in the Network 29:34 - Conclusion and How to Get Involved Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod In this episode, Aldo de Pape, the founder of GenomesDAO, discussed the challenges facing the genetic testing industry and how his organization is addressing them. He highlighted concerns around privacy and security, particularly in light of the increasing number of healthcare data breaches. GenomesDAO's approach prioritizes the safety and ownership of genomic data, contrasting their model with companies like 23andMe by ensuring individuals retain control over their biological samples and data via blockchain technology and partnerships with companies like AMD. Aldo also explained how GenomesDAO's consent protocol allows individuals to be compensated for sharing their data with research partners, such as pharmaceutical companies. He discussed the value of genomic data and the ways users can engage with the platform, either by ordering a genetic testing kit or transferring data from other platforms. The episode also covered the demand side of GenomesDAO's business model, where the platform serves as secure infrastructure for genomic research, with growing interest from pharmaceutical companies. Through its focus on data ownership, security, and user empowerment, GenomesDAO is reshaping the genetic testing landscape. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:32 - Genomic Data and Privacy Concerns 02:20 - Challenges in the Genetic Testing Industry 03:58 - GenomesDAO's Mission and Approach 04:18 - Security Measures Compared to Traditional Companies 07:39 - Monetization and Data Ownership Issues 08:27 - Consent and User Engagement 10:42 - Getting Involved with GenomesDAO 12:21 - Point System and Health Reports 18:13 - Token Launch and Blockchain Details 19:13 - Building on BASE and Ecosystem Synergies 20:58 - Demand Side and Research Partnerships 25:08 - Conclusion Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod In this episode, Connor and Greg Osuri (Founder of Akash Network) explore the changing landscape of American governance, focusing on the generational shift towards crypto and decentralized technologies. The guest highlights recent legislative changes, such as the passing of Bill 521, which reclassifies crypto as a commodity and shifts jurisdiction from the SEC to the CFTC, marking a significant moment for the industry. The conversation touches on the pro-crypto stance of the incoming administration and the potential for decentralized technologies to improve government efficiency, including through the proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Attention is also given to challenges in the AI space, especially energy consumption, and the role of Akash in providing decentralized cloud computing resources to meet growing demand. The episode wraps up with insights into Akash's onboarding process for data centers and the company's growth, driven by the need for affordable, accessible computing power in AI development. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:39 - Sponsor Message 00:58 - Regulatory Clarity in Crypto 03:41 - Crypto as a Commodity vs. Security 05:41 - Pro-Crypto Administration 07:38 - Impact of Government Adoption of Crypto 12:02 - Decentralized Tech in Government 14:01 - AI Regulation Perspectives 20:06 - Countermeasures for AI Threats 28:10 - Trends in AI and Energy Consumption 30:23 - Akash's Role in Decentralized AI 35:40 - Supply Constraints and Incentives 46:20 - Onboarding Process for Data Centers 48:33 - Customer Profiles and Use Cases Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

In today's episode Dylan G. Bane, an analyst at Messari, shared his insights on the evolving crypto landscape, focusing on decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN). He discussed the potential for institutional stigma around crypto to fade, unlocking investment in projects with real utility, especially those with tangible business models and cash flows. Dylan highlighted DePIN as a frontier for innovation, particularly in energy and wireless sectors, and emphasized the opportunities for entrepreneurs in these areas. He also reflected on his journey into crypto and offered advice for newcomers, stressing the importance of research, networking, and reputation-building. In a lightning round, he shared candid thoughts on crypto's political future and the potential of projects like Glow. Follow Building in Public Podcast: https://x.com/builtnpublicpod Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:36 - Sponsor Message 00:58 - Introduction to Dylan 01:26 - DePIN as the Frontier 02:54 - Saturation of Traditional VC Markets 04:04 - Dylan's Journey into DePIN 07:21 - Transitioning from RWA to DePIN 08:18 - Impact of Political Changes on Crypto 09:31 - Institutional Investment in DePIN 10:45 - Meme Coins vs. Utility Coins 12:55 - Valuations and Market Dynamics 14:05 - Identifying Promising DePIN Projects 16:40 - Evaluating Founders and Markets 18:32 - Tokenomics and Go-to-Market Strategies 20:00 - Challenges in DePIN Data 21:14 - Researching DePIN Investments 23:06 - Breaking into Crypto 25:35 - Lightning Round 27:01 - Closing Remarks Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Follow Proof of Coverage: ⁠⁠https://x.com/coverageproved⁠⁠ Today we're breaking DePIN news about a partnership between Daylight and Natix, with founders Jason Badeaux and Alireza Ghods joining the show to share the news. Jason explains how Daylight transforms homes and buildings into power plants, creating a clean and resilient energy system, while Alireza highlights Natix's AI-driven camera infrastructure, which supports autonomous driving and dynamic mapping. Together, they aim to integrate electric vehicles (EVs) into the energy grid, enabling users to share energy from their homes and cars. This episode showcases the innovative strides both companies are making in decentralized energy and mobility and the transformative potential of their collaboration. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:19 - Overview of Daylight's Mission 00:51 - Introduction to Natix and Its Vision 02:39 - Details of the Partnership Between Daylight and Natix 03:20 - How Daylight Integrates with Existing Energy Devices 05:02 - The Importance of Electric Vehicles in the Energy Market 06:05 - Call to Action for Listeners 07:20 - Closing Remarks Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Connor and Sal sat down with Cynthia Huang, founder of DTravel, a peer-to-peer vacation rental platform that offers a low 3% fee structure compared to the 20-30% typically charged by traditional platforms. Cynthia explained DTravel's three key products: DTravel Direct, for host-managed direct bookings; DTravel Search, a listing discovery platform; and the Night Protocol, a decentralized data layer standardizing rental data. She shared insights into her journey into Web3 and the value of tokenization in fostering community and engagement. The discussion also covered DTravel's role in decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN) and announced a $150 million TRVL token program to incentivize community growth. Follow Proof of Coverage: ⁠⁠https://x.com/coverageproved⁠⁠ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:33 - Overview of DTravel Ecosystem 03:03 - Cynthia's Founder Journey 08:22 - Connecting the Dots in Web3 10:59 - DePIN Ecosystem and Market Dynamics 15:18 - Tokenization and Community Focus 18:50 - Data Ownership and Migration 23:38 - Future Plans and Partnerships 24:44 - Building Through Market Cycles 27:47 - Community Growth Incentive Program Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

In today's episode, Mahesh sat down with Neuratic, COO of Anyone, to discuss internet privacy and how current solutions lag behind growing awareness. Neuratic explained "privacy washing," where companies claim to protect data while exploiting it for profit, with Google as an example. We explored how the Anyone Network tackles these issues through decentralization, fragmenting user data across relay operators for enhanced privacy, unlike traditional VPNs. The team also shared insights into their unique pseudonymous structure, their rebranding from ATOR after tensions with the Tor Project, and plans for the Anyone Router hardware. We wrapped up with thoughts on tokenomics, Bittensor, OpenAI, and the cultural impact of The Matrix, highlighting Anyone's commitment to a safer online world. Follow Proof of Coverage: ⁠https://x.com/coverageproved⁠ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:30 - Sponsor Message 01:00 - Guest Introduction 01:40 - Importance of Privacy 05:30 - Privacy Washing 06:30 - Global Privacy Rights 07:30 - Founders' Qualifications 08:30 - Anonymity in the Team 09:30 - Anyone Network Overview 11:40 - Protocol and VPN Use 13:30 - Emerging Applications 15:30 - Relationship with Tor 18:30 - Rebranding to Anyone 20:30 - Community and Trust 22:30 - Token Utility 24:30 - Fair Launch Concept 26:30 - Hardware Introduction 36:00 - Lightning Round Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

In this episode, Sal interviews Leonard from Peaq, a layer-1 blockchain aimed at revolutionizing global infrastructure through decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN). Leonard shares Peaq's journey from a Berlin-based IoT consultancy in 2017 to a vast ecosystem with millions of onchain devices and $25 million in tokenized machines. They discuss Peaq's appeal to DePIN builders, driven by its scalable architecture, enterprise connections, and a robust toolbox supporting machine IDs, data access, payments, rewards, and more. With over 50 projects on Peaq, Leonard envisions a community that emphasizes real-world applications over speculative projects, tackling trillion-dollar industries like energy, mobility, and robotics. Key timestamps cover topics such as Peaq's DePIN toolbox, modular architecture, and an upcoming token launch. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:35 - Origins of Peaq 05:25 - Why DePIN Builders Choose Peaq 08:23 - Peaq's DePIN Toolbox 10:40 - Modular vs Monolithic Architecture 12:50 - DePIN vs RWAs 17:20 - Machine DeFi 18:10 - Peaq's Upcoming Token Launch 21:00 - DePIN Energy Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

In this podcast, Sal interviewed Carlos Herrera, co-founder of Petastic. They discussed how Petastic's decentralized identity network for pets aims to transform the pet care industry through a tokenized ecosystem. He highlights the platform's ability to predict pet owners' needs, streamline customer engagement, and support shelters with sustainable revenue models, ultimately benefiting pets and their owners. Carlos also shares his vision for expanding personalized pet care and enhancing animal welfare worldwide. Follow Proof of Coverage: https://x.com/coverageproved Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:32 - Introduction to Petastic and Market Overview 02:05 - Petastic's Vision and Unique Approach 07:17 - Building Relationships with Shelters and Rescues 11:00 - Understanding Customer Needs and Predictive Analytics 14:41 - Future Goals and Expansion Plans 17:27 - Upcoming Initiatives and Community Engagement Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

In this podcast, Connor and Sal spoke with David Vorick, co-founder of Glow, about the company's innovative model for funding new solar infrastructure using donations to build solar farms that generate revenue for further projects. Focused on large-scale solar installations in cost-effective regions like India, Glow emphasizes the additionality of carbon credits, ensuring contributions actively reduce emissions. David also highlighted Glow's robust audit system for carbon credits and discussed its growth trajectory, hinting at future government interest in Glow's decentralized, sustainable energy approach. Follow Proof of Coverage: https://x.com/coverageproved Follow Connor: https://x.com/richhomiecon Follow Sal: https://x.com/DAnconia_Crypto Follow David Vorick: https://x.com/davidvorick Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Glow and Its Mission 00:30 - Explaining Glow to the Unfamiliar 02:11 - Focus on Large-Scale Solar Farms 03:51 - The Shift from Residential to Industrial Solar 04:41 - Cost Efficiency and Competitive Advantage 05:45 - New Solar vs. Existing Solar 06:27 - The Importance of Additionality in Carbon Credits 08:30 - Carbon Credits as a Revenue Model 10:42 - Why Solar is a Good Fit for Crypto 12:18 - Low Operational Costs of Solar Farms 13:23 - DePIN Verification and Audit Process 20:18 - Scaling the Supply Side and Incentives 24:14 - Demand Side and Revenue Insights 26:30 - Revenue Accrual to Token Holders Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

In today's episode, Connor is joined by Mark Rydon, a key figure in the decentralized infrastructure space, particularly focusing on Aethir and its innovative approach to DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks). They discussed how Aethir has built a robust revenue-generating model centered around enterprise-grade AI and gaming solutions. Mark shared insights into the growing importance of GPUs in the AI landscape, highlighting the global compute scarcity and how Aethir addresses this challenge by allowing enterprises to reconnect idle compute resources. This model is akin to Airbnb, where companies can monetize their unused GPUs, creating a win-win situation for both suppliers and consumers. They also discussed the recent success of Aethir's checker node sale, which generated nearly $130 million, showcasing the strong community support and the utility of these nodes in maintaining trust within the network. Mark explained how these nodes act as the "police" of the network, ensuring that contributors are providing the resources they claim. Additionally, they explored Aethir's focus on enterprise clients, which has led to impressive revenue growth, with $36 million in annual recurring revenue and a steady month-over-month increase. Mark emphasized the importance of this enterprise focus, contrasting it with the challenges faced by other DePIN projects that target consumer equipment. Timestamps: 00:00 - Building a Revenue-Generating Machine 00:35 - Understanding DePIN 00:57 - The Evolution of DePIN 04:49 - Aethir's Value Proposition 09:15 - Tapping into Latent Supply 10:04 - AethirEdge Devices 14:37 - Checker Node Sale Success 20:13 - Revenue Growth and Customer Profiles 26:56 - Keeping Up with Aethir Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Connor sat down with Alec Wilson, the COO of Spexi Network, a groundbreaking drone mapping company that is revolutionizing the earth imaging space. They spoke about how Spexi is leveraging the vast number of underutilized drones to create an ultra-high-resolution base layer of earth imagery, which is significantly more detailed than what satellites and planes can provide. Alec explained the mechanics of the Spexi Network, where drone pilots can easily capture imagery by using a mobile app that guides them through a hexagon-based system called "Spexagons." This innovative approach not only allows for high-quality data collection but also provides an opportunity for drone enthusiasts to earn money while doing something they love. They discussed the current state of the network, including the onboarding process for pilots and the demand from various sectors, such as municipalities, government agencies, and even metaverse and AI companies. Alec shared insights into how they are currently compensating pilots with cash and points, with plans for a future token distribution. The conversation also touched on the challenges of coordinating a decentralized network of drone pilots and the importance of regulatory clarity as they navigate the evolving landscape of crypto economics. Overall, it was an enlightening discussion about the potential of Spexi Network to create a new data set that can benefit both drone pilots and customers seeking high-resolution earth imagery. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:28 - Sponsor Message 01:02 - Explaining Spexi to the Average Person 01:30 - The Earth Imaging Market 02:43 - The Role of Drones in Earth Imaging 03:48 - How the Spexi Network Works 05:01 - Benefits of Spexi for Drone Pilots 06:17 - Creating New Data Sets 07:32 - Growing the Supply Side 09:13 - Spexi's Pilot Selection Process 10:57 - Payment Structure for Spexi Drone Pilots 12:36 - Integrating Token Economics into the Spexi Network 14:55 - Demand Side Overview 16:00 - Customer Segments Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Connor welcomes back old co-host Sami Kassab (now a Partner at OSS Capital) and guest Josh Benaron, founder of Irys, a next-generation data provenance and storage L1. They delved into the evolution of Irys from its origins as Bundlr, an L2 solution for Arweave, to its current status as a programmable data chain. Josh shared his insights on the importance of storytelling and writing for founders, emphasizing how effective communication can significantly impact hiring, fundraising, and overall success. They explored Josh's unique journey, including his decision to drop out of university to pursue his entrepreneurial ambitions in the crypto space. He discussed the vision behind Irys, which aims to unify data services on-chain and support applications that rely heavily on data. Josh also addressed the differences between Irys and other projects like Filecoin, highlighting how Irys enables programmability at the data level, which he believes is crucial for mass adoption. As they wrapped up, they touched on the future of decentralized applications (dApps) and the potential of DePIN networks. Josh expressed his bullish outlook on the DePIN space, noting its significant market fit despite being less hyped compared to other sectors like AI. They also discussed the upcoming token for Irys, with Josh hinting at a thoughtful approach to tokenomics that prioritizes community strength and sustainability. 00:00 - Introduction 01:23 - The Importance of Writing and Storytelling for Founders 04:11 - Josh's Decision to Drop Out of University 06:54 - Transition from Bundler to Irys 10:04 - Irys vs. Filecoin: Differentiating Approaches 14:05 - Incentivizing Builders on Irys 16:57 - The Future of DeFi and Deepin 19:32 - Unified Layer for Permanent and Non-Permanent Data 21:14 - Tokenomics and Future Plans for Irys Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.

Co-hosts Connor and Mahesh discuss the rapidly evolving world of DePIN and the broader implications for the crypto sector. They discuss whether they should be concerned about the proliferation of projects labeling themselves as DePIN and whether it's time to create more specific subcategories within the sector. Connor shares insights from a recent real-world DePIN event hosted by IoTeX, highlighting the excitement and attendance that reflects the growing interest in this space. They explore the current landscape, noting that while the number of projects is booming, the quality of founders entering the space is becoming more varied. This shift is reminiscent of the early days of DeFi, where the barrier to entry lowered, leading to a surge of new projects. They also touch on the importance of maintaining a big tent approach for the DePIN community, allowing for inclusivity and self-definition among founders. As DePIN transitions from subculture to pop culture, they recognize the need for a unified term like DePIN to attract attention and investment. The conversation shifts to the physical versus digital aspects of DePIN projects, with a debate on the merits of hardware-based solutions versus software-centric models. They agree that both have their advantages and that the future will likely see a blend of both approaches. Finally, they discuss the upcoming election and its potential impact on the crypto landscape. While there are concerns about the political climate, they remain optimistic about the future of DePIN and crypto as a whole, emphasizing the importance of innovation and community support. 00:00 - Introduction 00:26 - Sponsor Message: Polygon Labs 00:45 - The Boom of DePIN 02:08 - Quality and Quantity in DePIN Projects 03:34 - DePIN's Transition from Subculture to Pop Culture 04:05 - IoTeX's Real World DePIN Event 05:30 - DePIN Terminology 07:56 - The Big Tent Philosophy10:03 - Physical vs. Digital DePIN 15:07 - Market Dynamics and Token Launches 16:10 - Election Concerns and Market Impact 17:32 - Political Predictions and Crypto 20:52 - The Future of Governance and Crypto

Connor had the pleasure of speaking with Shaan Chaudhari, his college friend and Chief Growth Officer at XNET. They reminisce about their early days in the DePIN space, particularly during the challenging bear market when investor interest was low and token prices were down. Shaan shared his journey and his pivot from potentially attending dental school to fully committing to the crypto industry, motivated by PoC co-hosts Sal and Mahesh, who encouraged him to take risks while he was young. They discussed the importance of community building in crypto, especially during tough times. Shaan emphasized that showing conviction and leadership is crucial for inspiring others to join you on the journey, regardless of market conditions. He highlighted the sacrifices made by founders and the need for authenticity when reaching out to industry leaders, especially for newcomers looking to break into the space. As they wrapped up, Shaan reflected on the growth of the DePIN community over the past few years and expressed excitement for the future. 00:00 - Introduction 00:36 - Taking Risks in Your Career 01:59 - The Excitement of DePIN 02:51 - Lessons from the Bear Market 03:44 - Building a Convicted Community 04:34 - Advice for Newcomers to Crypto 06:04 - Reflections and Future Outlook Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.