Crypto payments are quietly reshaping how money moves, making transfers faster, cheaper, and more accessible for everyday people around the world. This episode focuses on the real value behind crypto and why payments may be the place where it matters most.

In this episode of Crypto, Explained, we sit down with May Zabaneh, Vice President of Product for Blockchain, Crypto, and Digital Currencies at PayPal, to unpack how crypto is moving beyond trading and into real world payments. We break down why cross border transfers are still inefficient, how stablecoins create economic stability, how people are using crypto for shopping and gifting, and what recent data reveals about growing adoption.

We also explore how trusted platforms, familiar apps, and a focus on real world utility over technical complexity are helping crypto feel simpler, safer, and more usable in everyday life.

May Zabaneh leads PayPal's blockchain, crypto, and digital currency initiatives, working at the intersection of traditional finance and emerging technology to improve how money moves globally for consumers and merchants.

What's Discussed:

• (01:10) How Global Payments Still Break Today

• (04:02) Why Crypto Solves Speed and Cost Problems

• (07:18) Growing Up With Currency Instability

• (11:45) Sending Money Instantly Across Borders

• (16:30) Why Value Matters More Than Technology

• (22:05) Stablecoins and Economic Stability

• (28:40) Crypto Gifting and Everyday Use

• (34:15) How Merchants Benefit From Crypto Payments

• (41:50) What Mainstream Adoption Really Looks Like

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA): Website: https://nca.org

X: @natcryptoassoc

Instagram: @natcryptoassoc

TikTok: @natcryptoassoc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natcryptoassoc/

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.

Crypto jargon creates confusion fast and keeps beginners from feeling confident in the space. This episode simplifies the core terms that shape the crypto world so listeners can finally understand the language without getting lost in complexity. We break everything down into plain English so the concepts feel familiar and usable.

In this episode of Crypto Explained, we sit down with Gabby from NCA, a leading educator at the National Cryptocurrency Association, to unpack the crypto vocabulary every beginner hears but rarely gets explained clearly. We cover what crypto actually is, how DeFi works in everyday terms, the difference between coins and tokens, why stablecoins stay steady, what makes meme coins unpredictable, and how private keys, seed phrases, gas fees, and DYOR fit into safe navigation of the digital economy.

We also explore how relatable analogies, simple definitions, and real examples help beginners learn faster and start using crypto with clarity and confidence.

What's Discussed:

• (00:56) What Crypto Actually Means in Plain English

• (03:24) The Difference Between Crypto and DeFi

• (05:35) Coins vs Tokens and Why It Matters

• (08:11) Private Keys Explained Simply and How to Protect Them

• (10:39) Seed Phrases and Why They Act as Your Backup

• (16:04) Stablecoins, Meme Coins, and Real Utility

• (25:00) What DYOR Really Means for Beginners

• (30:29) Gas Fees and Why Some Networks Cost More

• (34:20) How Learning the Vocabulary Builds True Crypto Confidence

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA): Website: https://nca.org

X: @natcryptoassoc

Instagram: @natcryptoassoc

TikTok: @natcryptoassoc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natcryptoassoc/

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.

Crypto scams show up in more places than people expect, and knowing how to spot them helps you stay safe online. In this episode, we break down the five major scams that target beginners and explain the simple habits that protect your digital assets.

In this episode of Crypto Explained, we sit down with the National Cryptocurrency Association team to unpack how relationship scams build trust before asking for money, why pump and dumps rely on hype, how fake giveaways spread through deepfakes, what impersonation scams look like, and how phishing links attempt to steal sensitive information.

We also explore how quick checks like verifying URLs, slowing down when something feels urgent, and avoiding surprise messages can help you stay secure every time you go online.

The National Cryptocurrency Association provides education and real-world guidance to help everyday people understand crypto safely and confidently, empowering listeners to use digital money with clarity and control.

What's Discussed:

• (1:12) Why Scammers Target New Crypto Users

• (4:55) Relationship Scams and Emotional Manipulation

• (8:27) Pump and Dumps: How Hype Turns Into Losses

• (10:58) Fake Giveaways and Deepfakes Explained

• (13:45) Impersonation Scams That Look Legit

• (16:22) Phishing Tactics and How They Steal Info

• (18:40) The Simple Habits That Keep You Safe

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA): Website: https://nca.org

X: @natcryptoassoc

Instagram: @natcryptoassoc

TikTok: @natcryptoassoc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natcryptoassoc/

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.

Crypto can feel confusing when headlines and hype overshadow the simple ideas that make the technology useful. In this episode, we bring everything back to basics so beginners can finally understand how crypto shows up in everyday life. Everything stays clear, practical, and easy to follow.

In this episode of Crypto, Explained, we sit down with Natalie Rix, Head of Communications at Gemini, to unpack the biggest myths that keep people from feeling comfortable with crypto. We break down why scandals like FTX were driven by old fashioned fraud rather than blockchain, how crypto supports faster global payments, and why small steps like rewards or fifty dollar buys help beginners learn without pressure. We also explain how clear language, simple analogies, and real world examples make crypto feel accessible to anyone.

We also explore how curiosity, small habits, and beginner friendly tools can shift crypto from something intimidating to something practical in daily life.

Natalie Rix is the communications leader at Gemini, known for turning complex ideas into plain language and helping everyday people feel informed, included, and confident as they explore digital money.

Tune in to Crypto, Explained by NCA, Episode 6, to discover how simple conversations can clear the confusion and help you understand crypto with confidence.

What's Discussed:

(00:06) Why crypto myths spread and how they confuse beginners

(03:42) The difference between crypto scams and actual blockchain technology

(06:15) How global payments and remittances work on crypto rails

(08:03) Why crypto can help protect value in high inflation environments

(09:27) How to start small with rewards or fifty dollar buys

(11:14) Why jargon blocks adoption and how simple language fixes it

(13:02) How to think about ownership on chain vs traditional banking

(15:48) Everyday examples of crypto showing up in real life

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA): Website: https://nca.org

X: @natcryptoassoc

Instagram: @natcryptoassoc

TikTok: @natcryptoassoc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natcryptoassoc/

Learn More about Natalie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliearix

X: https://x.com/Natalie_Rix

Crypto feels like it's everywhere, but knowing where you should get started? That's the tricky part.

In this episode of Crypto, Explained, we make the first steps clear and simple. You'll learn what gives crypto its value, how to use it safely, and why understanding the basics can open new doors for your financial future.

We answer real listener questions, break down how crypto works, and show how it's already being used for payments, DeFi, and NFTs in everyday life.

Tune in to Crypto, Explained by the NCA, Episode 5 , to discover how curiosity can turn into confidence in the world of digital money.

What's Discussed:

2:48 – What Actually Gives Crypto Its Value

4:58 – Why You Don't Need a Whole Coin to Start

5:46 – How Crypto Makes Payments Faster and Easier

7:52 – Why It's Not Too Late to Get Started

13:31 – What DeFi Really Means and Why It Matters

17:40 – Real-Life Story: How a Creator Pays His Team in Crypto

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA): Website: https://nca.org

X: @natcryptoassoc

Instagram: @natcryptoassoc

TikTok: @natcryptoassoc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natcryptoassoc/

Your crypto isn't really in your wallet. So where is it? And how do you keep it safe?

In this episode, we break down the role of wallets in the crypto world and why understanding them matters. From how they give you access to your assets to the different levels of security and control they offer, you'll learn how to make smart, confident decisions that fit your needs.

We unpack the five fundamentals of crypto wallets, explain how they work in plain English, and show how real people are using them to build financial independence.

Tune in to Crypto, Explained by the NCA, Episode 4, to learn how wallets are transforming the way people store, protect, and use their money in the digital world.

What's Discussed:

1:22 – Why Crypto Wallets Aren't as Complicated as They Seem

10:30 – Who's Really Using Crypto (The Surprising Stats)

15:35 – How Crypto Wallets Actually Work

17:42 – Choosing the Right Type of Wallet

22:50 – Keys, Addresses, and Recovery Phrases Explained

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA): Website: https://nca.org/learnInstagram: @natcryptoassocYouTube: National Cryptocurrency Association

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.

If you've spent any time online, you've probably noticed everyone seems to have a strong opinion about crypto. Some call it the future of money. Others say it's a scam, a fad, or just fake internet cash. It can be confusing, and it makes sense why so many myths have taken hold.

In this episode, we're unpacking the biggest myths and misconceptions that shape how people view crypto. From claims that it has no real value to the idea that it's too late to get started, we're taking a closer look at what's fact and what's fiction.

Ali is joined by Stu Alderoty, President of the National Cryptocurrency Association and Chief Legal Officer at Ripple. Stu brings years of experience at the intersection of law, finance, and innovation, offering a clear perspective on what crypto is and how it actually works.

🎧 Tune in to Crypto, Explained by the National Cryptocurrency Association for Episode 3 to uncover the truth behind the biggest crypto myths and learn how this technology is already transforming money, trust, and everyday life.

What we discuss:

• 16:02 – Why Crypto Is Here to Stay

• 22:03 – Too Late? Why the Best Time Is Now

• 33:33 – The One Key That Unlocks Everything

• 38:56 – Blockchain: The Tech That Can't Be Broken

• 47:40 – The Top Crypto Myths Crushed

Find more from Stuart Alderoty: Website: https://ripple.com/company/leadership/stuart-alderoty/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stuartalderoty X (Twitter): @s_alderoty

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA):

Website: https://nca.org X: https://twitter.com/@natcryptoassoc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@natcryptoassoc TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@natcryptoassoc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natcryptoassoc/ Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.

Almost half of people in the U.S. who don't own or use crypto say they don't understand how it all works. Nearly 70% say they'd want more information before they'd even consider getting involved. And about a third are open to learning, but the truth is… overall confidence in understanding the tech is still pretty low.

That's a huge number of people basically saying, 'I've heard the word blockchain, but I couldn't explain it even if my life depended on it.' And honestly? We get it. The word itself sounds complicated, the headlines make it feel intimidating, and the crypto hype doesn't exactly make it easier to trust. But, as crypto is becoming more mainstream, it's time that someone clearly explains what it is.

So in today's episode, we're stripping it all down. No jargon, no tech headaches, just 7 simple things you need to know about blockchain. By the end of this,hopefully you'll be able to explain it in plain English for yourself. We promise: you'll walk away from this episode with a clear, no-BS understanding of what this is all is and why it matters.

What's Discussed:

03:45 – The Biggest Myth About Blockchain, Debunked

07:10 – Blockchain Explained: The Giant Digital Notebook

12:25 – What "Decentralized" Really Means (In Plain English)

17:40 – The Google Doc Analogy That Makes Blockchain Click

22:55 – Every Transaction Is a Lego Brick That Locks in Forever

28:30 – How Blockchain Balances Privacy and Transparency

33:45 – Real-World Blockchain: How Crypto Is Modernizing Ranching

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA):

Website: https://nca.org/

Twitter: https://x.com/natcryptoassoc?lang=en

Instagram: @natcryptoassoc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7_uritgUHlXQyVC3HKqJOQ

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natcryptoassoc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc/?viewAsMember=true

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.

If you've ever wondered what crypto actually is, why it matters, and why everyone has an opinion about it—this episode is for you.

With expert guest Stuart Alderoty, President of the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) and Chief Legal Officer at Ripple, we break down what crypto is, how blockchain works, and why it's becoming part of everyday life.

You'll learn how to explain crypto to your grandma, what gives crypto its value, how it cuts out middlemen to make transactions faster and cheaper, and hear real stories of people using it for freedom, security, and opportunity.

Whether you're curious, skeptical, or starting from zero, this episode will finally make crypto make sense with this Crypto 101 crash course — no jargon, charts, or hype.

What's Discussed:

03:10 – From Wall Street to Blockchain: A Big Shift

08:25 – Quickfire Myths, Mistakes, and Must-Knows

12:10 – Explaining Crypto So Even Your Grandma Gets It

18:45 – What Actually Gives Crypto Its Value

25:30 – 5 Surprising Ways People Use Crypto Every Day

33:15 – "Trustless" Sounds Bad… Until You Hear This

39:40 – The Future of Money Is Already Here

Find more from Stuart Alderoty: Website: https://ripple.com/company/leadership/stuart-alderoty/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stuartalderoty X (Twitter): @s_alderoty

Learn more about the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA): Website: https://nca.org/learnInstagram: @natcryptoassocYouTube: National Cryptocurrency Association

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.

Let's be real — most people feel lost when it comes to crypto. The language sounds like another planet, the research feels overwhelming, and the loudest voices often make it seem like you need to be in finance or deep in the tech world just to keep up.

But here's the truth: Crypto isn't just for experts or insiders — it's for you. Whether you're crypto-curious, crypto-confused, or somewhere in between, this is your space to see how crypto can actually fit into your everyday life.

The National Cryptocurrency Association was created to help Americans make sense of crypto by sharing real stories of how it benefits your everyday life and supporting the communities with the most to gain. It's our goal to provide educational resources to help you navigate the jargon and complexity and to make sure you stay informed with what happens next.

On this show, we'll tackle the questions you've always had but maybe felt too embarrassed to ask. We'll bust the big myths, like "crypto is just a scam," break down the headlines so they actually make sense, and show you the practical ways crypto and blockchain are already showing up in everyday life.

So whether you're just dipping your toes in or you've been curious for years but never knew where to start, this podcast is your guide. Each week we'll break it down, keep it simple, and help you become crypto confident.

New episodes drop every week — so hit follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and together we will discover how crypto fits into your money, your world, and your future.

Find more from the NCA:

Website: https://nca.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natcryptoassoc/

X: https://x.com/NatCryptoAssoc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natcryptoassoc/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7_uritgUHlXQyVC3HKqJOQ

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.