Having access to a bank account is synonymous with human rights.

Stani Kulechov is a pioneer in decentralized finance and blockchain technology. He is the Founder and CEO of Avara, the software development company behind DeFi protocol Aave, stablecoin GHO, SocialFi tech stack Lens Chain and Family, the Ethereum wallet. 

In this episode, he joins Amanda to discuss the evolving dynamics between DeFi, traditional finance, and regulation. They explore Aave’s growth, the decentralization-versus-crentralization debate, and the evolving role of KYC in DeFi. Later, they dive into Ethereum’s technical roadmap in today’s shifting regulatory landscape, the impact of stablecoins, and the urgent need for innovation in crypto. Stani introduces Lens Chain, his latest venture in decentralized social media, and examines how web3 could reshape online interactions. 

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Understanding DeFi: Access and Opportunity

03:13 The Limitations of Traditional Finance

08:50 The Evolution and Future of DeFi

11:59 Aave's Unique Position in the DeFi Landscape

16:39 Building a Profitable DeFi Protocol

21:29 Decentralization vs. Centralization in Finance

24:02 The Future of KYC and Compliance in DeFi

30:26 Ethereum's Technical Roadmap and Community Dynamics

37:19 Expanding Aave Beyond Ethereum

40:20 The Role of Stablecoins in DeFi

45:09 Innovating Wallets for User Experience

47:08 Decentralized Social Media: The Lens Protocol

51:51 Navigating Politics and Regulation in Crypto

RESOURCES:

Stani on X: https://x.com@StaniKulechov 

Subscribe to Endgame: https://www.youtube.com/@endgamepodcast 

Amanda on X:  https://x.com/amandacassatt  

Serotonin on X: https://x.com/serotonin  

Endgame on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6iSvbKOJWoEPiAoGmiulkd   

Endgame on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/endgame-with-amanda-cassatt/id1801809440  

Substack: https://substack.com/@UCInZsV3L1nDGoFjxoNUnPQQ