Mr Obnoxious

Ben Arc is an open-source developer and an advocate in the Bitcoin and Nostr ecosystems.

In this episode, we discuss the shift from centralised platforms like Twitter to decentralized systems, discussing how Nostr allows users to control their data and build communities without corporate interference. We get into Bitcoin’s evolution, synthesizing libertarian and socialist ideologies, the future of soft currencies, and the role of CBDCs in global economies. We also talk about the cultural significance of local currencies like the Welsh pound, the importance of free speech in a digital age, and how AI is transforming both daily life.

Ian Birrell is a renowned British journalist, columnist, and foreign correspondent, known for his work on global conflicts, social justice, and political reform.

In this episode, we discuss the failures of the prison system, whether it's true purpose is punishment or rehabilitation, and how countries like Norway and Texas are tackling recidivism with innovative approaches. We also get into Bitcoin’s role in empowering activists, the impact of social media on political tribalism, and Elon Musk’s controversial approach to free speech as well as the rise of political extremism, the decline of critical thinking, and the challenges of addressing the war on drugs and reforming criminal justice systems.

Fernando Nikolić, Director of Marketing and Communications at Blockstream and a passionate Bitcoin advocate, offers a unique perspective on Argentina's economic turmoil and the libertarian revolution unfolding today.

In this episode, we discuss the history of Argentina, exploring the impact of hyperinflation, political corruption, and the rise of populism. Fernando shares his thoughts on the impact of Juan Perón’s legacy, the devastation caused by decades of mismanagement, and the cultural factors that shaped the country’s economic collapse. We also discuss the rise of Javier Milei, the new libertarian leader, his drastic reforms, and the potential for Argentina to become a global libertarian test case.

Maajid Nawaz is a prominent counter-extremism activist, author, and former Islamist who has dedicated his life to combating radicalization. 

In this episode, we discuss the complexities of modern Britain, the rise of extremism, the impact of divisive rhetoric, and the urgent need to rebuild societal trust. Maajid shares his insights on the weaponization of free speech, the failures of political leadership, and the challenges of integration and identity in a rapidly changing UK. We also get into his personal journey from radicalism to reform, the importance of shared values, and his vision for a new Britain.

Dominic Frisby is a financial writer, comedian, and commentator known for his takes on economics, tax reform, and freedom. Dominic is a vocal advocate for liberty, self-governance, and the importance of sound money.

In this episode, we dive into the state of personal freedom in the modern world and the battle for free speech. We explore the realities of high taxes, the lessons from Argentina’s economic chaos, and how libertarianism offers a path forward. We also look at the erosion of freedoms, the dangers of big government, and why taking control of your own life has never been more critical.

Silkie Carlo is the Director of Big Brother Watch, where she leads efforts to defend civil liberties and protect privacy rights against state surveillance. She is at the forefront of challenging the UK's invasive surveillance laws and advocating for the protection of free speech and personal freedoms. 

In this episode, we dive into the growing government panopticon, the implications of mass surveillance on privacy and democracy, and the battles being fought to protect individual rights in a digital age. We explore the expansion of state power, the impact of technologies like facial recognition, and the threats posed by new laws, as Silkie provides an eye-opening account of the fight against a surveillance state determined to monitor and control.

Allen Farrington is a writer and investor. He co-wrote Bitcoin Is Venice and he’s a co-founder of Axiom, a Bitcoin-focused venture firm.

In this episode, we discuss the distortions caused by fiat money, the consequences of misallocated capital, and the philosophical underpinnings of a Bitcoin standard. We get into how these issues impact both individuals and economies, dissect the flaws of modern capitalism, and discuss how Bitcoin offers a path toward financial sovereignty and a more equitable economic future, as Allen provides a compelling case for why the current system is unsustainable and what can be done to change it.

Anna Chekhovich serves as the Financial Director at Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, where she plays a key role in exposing corruption within Putin's regime and promoting transparency and justice in Russia. She also works as the Nonprofit Bitcoin Adoption Lead at The Human Rights Foundation.

In this episode, we discuss the challenges of fighting corruption inside Russia, the personal risks faced by opposition activists, and the state of civil liberties under Putin's rule. We explore Navalny’s impact, the internal dynamics of Russian politics, and the ongoing struggle for freedom, as Anna offers a first-hand account of life inside a system designed to suppress dissent and maintain control.

Gavin Sathianathan is the CEO of Research Smart and an advocate for medical cannabis and alternative therapies.

In this episode, we dive into the role of cannabis as a treatment for various health conditions, exploring the therapeutic potential of drugs in modern medicine. We discuss the challenges facing patients and practitioners in the current healthcare system and examine how alternative therapies are pushing the boundaries of conventional treatment.

Matthew Pines is the Director of Intelligence at SentinelOne and a National Security Fellow at the Bitcoin Policy Institute.

In this episode, we explore UAPs, simulation theory, remote viewing, and human consciousness. We discuss the potential implications of knowing that aliens are real and what this could mean for humanity - exploring the nature of reality and challenging our understanding of existence, as we discuss the intersection of advanced phenomena and human perception.