This is a deep and somewhat technical conversation with Josh (Bitpunk.fm), where we talk about the implications of the imminent “Albycalypse” in the value4value (podcasting 2.0 and Nostr) ecosystems. We discuss the transition happening with various podcasting apps as they move away from using Alby, a Lightning wallet API, which has become instrumental for Lightning payments by many podcasting apps. We explore the reasons behind this shift, particularly the regulatory and custodial pressures that necessitate a migration to alternative payment solutions.

We start by unpacking the current state of podcasting payments, emphasizing the two primary types of Lightning payments: Keysend and Bolt-11 + Bolt-12 invoices. We share insights into the mechanics of Keysend, a preferred method for podcasters, and the complications that arise. We then talk about Bolt11 invoices, explaining how they work and the challenges they bring due to their need for persistent connectivity and the requirement for platforms to support them.

As we move into Bolt12, we detail its advantages, including enhanced privacy features and the ability to communicate solely through the Lightning Network itself, thereby bypassing traditionally cumbersome domain name system and web infrastructure. This lays the groundwork for discussions around the adoption hurdles this protocol faces and how it compares to solutions like Cashu, which serves as a hybrid model aiming for both ease of use and control over funds.

We touch on the Uncle Jim model, where one individual could run a node to serve multiple family members or peers, lowering the barriers for those less technically inclined.

Links:

• Bitpunk.fm and Bitpunk.fm unwound podcasts (Josh)

The internet is broken. We want free stuff, so we are the product. The datacenters are not free. Our identities, our social graphs, our channels and often our revenue are either owned or passed through intermediaries, who can flip the switch – and we’re gone. There are ways to take our online lives back, but it needs a bit of a cypherpunk mindset, and willingness to experiment.

Reticulum is a low-level mesh network when the basic Internet infrastructure fails. We can run it in cities over radio. Nostr is a protocol for publishing content, building social graphs and building replacement for Twitter/X, Instagram, but also Meetup, maps-based apps and many other things. And most of it (somehow) works today. If you are a bit cypherpunk and not a normie, come over!

Swallowing the orange pill is only the beginning. What comes next has very little to do with the exchange rate or your wealth. What Bitcoin gives you is new outlook on life, through experience.

Suddenly, you notice hierarchies are not required for most relationships. A decentralized networks works – tick tock next block – without the need of central planner. And by the way, it’s the 6th largest reserve currency of the world.

How does this day to day experience with Bitcoin impact you and how you can participate in this revolution by letting it change your life?

How do you enter – not only financially, but fully – to the orange Bitcoin world?

Links:

• Cryptocurrencies – Hack your way to a better life – book

A look into cypherpunk’s history, goals, current status, and possible futures. Cypherpunks are individuals who build the technologies for the strategy of cryptoanarchy. This strategy involves using cryptographic tools to enhance personal liberty in everyday life, without waiting for systemic changes. I explain how cypherpunks have worked on cryptographic primitives to enable private communication, censorship resistance, anonymity, electronic cash, decentralized file sharing, permissionless social networks, and more.

I talk about the importance of anonymity in increasing personal freedom by detaching physical actions from identities that can be targeted. We celebrate the progress made in utilizing cypherpunk technologies and acknowledge the revolutionary impact of projects like Bitcoin. Bitcoin has become a significant reserve asset globally (number 6!).

I discuss the remaining challenges facing the cypherpunk movement, such as the need for truly private peer-to-peer markets, improved reputation mechanisms, better coordination, and a shift towards prioritizing anonymity over mere privacy. Additionally, building “pipes” between different cypherpunk technologies, like the old school unix pipe.

Links:

• Cypherpunk visions and trends 2023-2025 – Amazon, my e-shop

We are Bitcoiners. We HODL. But what then? Do well sell our Bitcoin? Hell no! This is a podcast about Bitcoin-backed finance and our options after the proverbial moon.

This podcast is a recording of a Twitter Space on the topic of Bitcoin finance. I explain my book and course How to harness the value of Bitcoin without having to sell it, Martin and Chairman explain Bitcoin-native lending protocol Firefish and Richard and Science Genial (who also organized this space, thanks!) explain 10101.

Links:

• How to harness the value of Bitcoin without having to sell it – course and ebook

A demo of Reticulum, Cashu and my project Nutband that combines them, in order to use a Cashu mint over Reticulum mesh network – in this case over long range radio, and without internet.

I recommend watching video this time, but audio explanation should be ok too.

Nutband project

Learn more about cypherpunk stuff, tech and Bitcoin in my books:

Cypherpunk visions and trends 2023-2025

Cryptocurrencies – Hack your way to a better life (also available in Spanish and Slovak).

In this episode, I want to show you where are we going – what is the alternative, or rather parallel system. Does it already exist, or is it a hallucination of dreamers? How do we enter it – do we wish it into existence or is there another pathway? How big is it?

It is a recording from the 10th Hackers Congress Paralelní Polis – Resistance. I hope you enjoy this quite positive episode. I believe we already have a working solution in case world collapses. We have an out!

In this episode, I introduce my short ebook titled “Cypherpunk Visions and Trends 2023 to 2025.”. A lot of people talk about cypherpunk history. But what is our future? What technologies matter? Does Bitcoin need technological upgrades and if yes, on which level? What about related technologies? Nostr as a bitcoin-friendly social network, open-source AI that knows the answer to who would build the roads without the state. How do we react to regulatory pressure and where do we go from here?

Links:

• Ebook Cypherpunk visions and trends 2023-2025

In this episode, I take listeners on a deep dive into the world of peer-to-peer over-the-counter trading, referencing the historical veksláks of former Czechoslovakia. Delving into the mounting regulatory pressures faced by cryptocurrency users, I shed light on politically sensitive questions popping up even in ordinary transactions. Instead of lobbying, I put forward a peer-to-peer approach, underscoring the significance of proxy merchants and the revival of veksláks to facilitate transactions sans personal information disclosure.

I underline that to genuinely uphold privacy and sovereignty – two core values of cryptocurrencies like Monero and a basic value of cypherpunks – users need to focus on private and secure acquisition methods, not just transactional security. Taking inspiration from the structure of pot dealers, who operate effectively even in highly regulated spaces, I offer insights into how the same peer-to-peer structure can be beneficial for the crypto community.

For those keen on establishing their trading groups, I recommend secure messaging platforms. The episode also touches on the unique opportunities arising from demand and supply imbalances in crypto groups. I delve into hedging techniques with futures and stablecoins, highlighting their respective risks and rewards.

Throughout the episode, I stress the essential role of crypto as a societal backup memory of good deeds of society, and the pivotal role veksláks play in guarding against overreaching regulations.

Finally, I introduce listeners to valuable resources like the Vexl app and some recommended reading. Don’t forget to check out my book, “Cryptocurrencies Hack Your Way to a Better Life” – use the discount code provided in the episode!

Links:

• How to find someone to buy cryptocurrencies from and how to create your own crypto trading group – a blog about starting your peer to peer trading group

There is a lot of talk about using technologies to increase our freedom. But how does this work? How does some encryption software or anonymous cryptocurrency actually increase my freedom.

In this episode of the Option Plus podcast, I delve into the world of cypherpunk technologies and cryptoanarchy. Using insights from my book “Cryptocurrencies: Hack Your Way to a Better Life,” I demystify how these innovative technologies can bolster our personal freedoms.

Focusing on the immense possibilities, I touch upon the essence of freedom and the non-aggression principle, emphasizing personal responsibility. I discuss strategies to combat surveillance and dismantle the power that hierarchical structures have over us, which is essential for truly embracing freedom. Beyond social media debates and manifestos, I introduce the OODA loop, highlighting its role in conflict navigation and especially conflict prevention.

I explore the differences between reform movements and cryptoanarchy, which has the ability to obscure actions for swift conflict resolution. Cryptoanarchy offers the power of selective visibility, letting us decide what parts of ourselves we reveal.

Drawing from James Scott’s works, I underscore the freedom of not being bound by land or state. Venturing into the “cyphersphere,” I suggest the benefits of a nomadic persona in maintaining privacy.

Recognizing the intricate power dynamics, I urge listeners to focus on their positions and situations rather than the motives of the powerful. I champion peer-to-peer communities, like Bitcoin, and stress the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships within the cyphersphere and pursuing a purpose-driven life, away from politics and power plays.

Join me as we chart a path towards genuine freedom and empowerment.

Links:

• My books Cryptocurrencies – Hack your way to a better life and Cypherpunk visions and trends 2023-2025 talk about ways to use crypto/cypher technologies to increase your freedom. Get yours with a discount by using the code OPTIONPLUS. Start with Cryptocurrencies – it has very actionable content that you have probably not seen before anywhere else. Also available in Spanish and Slovak.