In this unique episode, Andrew and Fahad speak with Kristin Smith, Executive Director from the Blockchain Association in Washington D.C. They dive into blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and how policymakers are addressing emerging technologies. Blockchain Association’s mission is to change public policy in Washington so that crypto and blockchain technology has the clarity needed to thrive. Kristin is passionate about advancing blockchain with the support of Washington D.C. She brings expert knowledge to this space and we are so excited to have her on our show today

Hosts: Fahad Shoukat and Andrew Wolfe

Today's Guest: Kristin Smith, Executive Director of Blockchain Association

Kristin runs the Blockchain Association, where she leads the crypto industry’s development of a strategic roadmap for public policy. She is an experienced policy professional, with senior-level experience in both House and Senate offices as well as private sector experience advocating for companies in the telecommunications, Internet, and other tech-focused industries. Kristin holds an MBA in Finance from NYU’s Stern School of Business and a graduate degree from Georgetown University.

The Blockchain Association is a trade association representing the interests of the open blockchain and cryptocurrency industry before Congress and policymakers in Washington D.C. 

Our guest in this episode is the Executive Director of the Blockchain Association, Kristin Smith. Interacting between public policy and disruptive technology, such as cryptocurrency, is an exciting place to be because the policies haven't been built yet and the dynamic is continuously changing. 

The work that the Blockchain Association is doing is so important because this technology is really complicated. When dealing with non-tech background policymakers, it's important to have a voice in the room who is able to communicate the key ideas in a way that people understand. If we want to get a better public policy that supports the development of this technology, you have to show up, present ideas and ask for help. Having a trade association here on the ground is important for the companies that came together to launch it. 

Concerns about Blockchain in the Public and Private Sector

• When it comes to Blockchain itself, it's got a good reputation. However, when you get into open blockchain networks fueled by cryptocurrencies that flags are raised.
• Before Facebook announced Libra back in the summer, there weren't many policymakers taking the technology seriously. After that, they realized that big companies that we trust or don't trust are getting into the arena. All of a sudden it was real and they realized they would have to address it. Some have concerns and are addressing them through legacy policy ideas, others are approaching it through a fresh lens.
• There's been a shift this past year where people are realizing the potential of technology and even though it's not figured out, they're ready to dialog about it to ensure that consumers are protected, but the US is staying competitive.
• Blockchain is well received in the private sector, but there are concerns especially when it comes to regulations. There is faith in the technology, but they are running into this roadblock of not knowing when or what regulations apply.

Politics and Blockchain

• Emerging technology doesn't come up too often on the campaign trail. The