Solfate Podcast - Interviews with blockchain founders/builders on Solana

A conversation with Robin, CEO of Raiku, about Raiku's approach to guaranteed transaction includion on Solana.

📝 Notes from the show

In this episode of the Solfate Podcast, hosts James and Nick welcome Robin, founder of Raiku, to discuss Raiku's approach to guaranteed Solana transaction inclusion using validator sidecars, a decentralized coordination layer, and ahead-of-time block auctions. The conversation covers why L1s hit physical latency limits, how inclusion signals and pre-reserved blockspace reduce dropped transactions and retry spam, and where Raiku differs from existing infrastructure like Jito bundles. Robin shares his background from Ethereum and Hyperledger, why he chose Solana, what’s shipping in Raiku's testnet v1 vs v2, and how validator incentives, pricing modules, and oracle speed factor into high-performance DeFi applications.

  - 00:00 Intro and elevator pitch for Raiku

  - 03:20 Robin’s background, Ethereum years, and lessons from L2s

  - 06:34 Why Solana: tech maturity, dev mindshare, edge compute interest

  - 10:24 Problems to solve: predictability, fragmentation, validator alignment

  - 13:44 Architecture: validator sidecar, coordination node, block auctions

  - 16:27 Raiku vs Jito bundles and mempool latency

  - 18:58 Inclusion signals cadence and “up to 60s ahead” planning

  - 20:12 Differentiated blockspace, plugins, discounted lanes for oracles

  - 22:26 Reliability at scale, reducing retries during congestion

  - 26:06 How auctions work with blockhash TTL, SDK and endpoints

  - 27:26 Pricing modules, open market for searchers, fee split design

  - 29:36 Testnet v1 today, v2 decentralization and load testing

  - 31:32 Not an L2: limited node set, “good actors,” incentive design

  - 33:06 Extending Solana without classic L2 tradeoffs

  - 37:14 Transaction flow: app → Raiku node → validator

  - 38:28 First users: DeFi, perps, HFT, solver flows

  - 40:42 Faster confirmation needs faster oracles and price feeds

  - 43:04 Alpenglow outlook and finality targets

  - 43:46 Hiring, roles needed, closing

🔗 Find Robin and Raiku online

Follow Robin on Twitter/X: @degenroot

Follow Raiku on Twitter/X: @raikucom

Check out Raiku at their website: raiku.com

A conversation with Dave Taylor, CEO of Etherfuse, about Etherfuse's stablebonds as an essential blockchain primitive for foreign exchange.

📝 Notes from the show

In this episode of the Solfate Podcast, hosts James and Nick welcome Dave Taylor, CEO of Etherfuse, to discuss their groundbreaking approach to bringing real-world assets on-chain through tokenized government bonds called "stablebonds." The conversation explores how Etherfuse has navigated complex regulatory frameworks across Mexico, Switzerland, and other countries to create a new primitive for foreign exchange that could revolutionize how people access and trade international currencies. Dave shares insights on building in the RWA space, the technical challenges of tokenizing government debt, and how stablebonds are already outcompeting traditional remittance solutions by 200,000x in daily volume while making foreign exchange more accessible and affordable for everyone.

00:00 Introduction and Dave's Background
04:32 The Genesis of Etherfuse and Regulatory Journey
16:14 Technical Implementation on Solana
23:07 Stablebonds as DeFi Primitives
28:32 The Moral Imperative: Bringing FX On-Chain
36:05 Why DeFi Creates Superior Markets
41:02 Current Markets and Yield Opportunities
43:55 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts

🔗 Find Dave and Etherfuse online

Follow Dave on Twitter/X: @EtherfuseDave
Follow Etherfuse on Twitter/X: @etherfuse
Check out Etherfuse at their website: https://www.etherfuse.com

👋 Follow the co-hosts online

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af
  
  

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13
• website: https://beunboxed.com
  
  

Follow Solfate Podcast on Twitter/X for updates: @solfatepod

Thanks for watching frens :) 💖

A conversation with Edison Chen, CEO of Cudis, about Cudis's longevity protocol that leverages blockchain incentives.

Ready to start tracking your health on-chain? Get $60 off your Cudis ring and 500 bonus reward points by visiting their website via this link: https://www.cudis.xyz/join?code=Solfate
and using code "Solfate" at checkout 

📝 Notes from the show

In this episode of the Solfate Podcast, hosts James and Nick welcome Edison Chen, CEO of Cudis, to discuss their revolutionary blockchain-based longevity protocol. Cudis creates wellness rings that track health and fitness data, storing it on-chain so users own their data. The conversation explores how Web3 technology can transform healthcare through personalized incentives, data ownership, and creating a health data economy. Edison shares insights on building hardware in the crypto space, tokenization of health data as assets, and Cudis's vision for personalized longevity solutions for everyone.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 
00:34 Meet Edison Chen from Cudis 
01:06 Why Web3 for Wellness? 
07:08 Deep Dive into Cudis Concept 
12:14 Sustainable Incentive Design 
18:20 Health Data as Assets 
27:05 Use Cases and Market Potential 
34:26 Hardware Manufacturing Journey 
42:10 Why Build on Solana? 
46:02 Token Strategy and Design 
48:51 Grand Vision for Longevity 
53:13 Closing Thoughts

🔗 Find Edison and Cudis online

Follow Edison on Twitter/X: @Edcbeatbit
Follow Cudis on Twitter/X @CudisWellness
Check out Cudis at their website: https://cudis.xyz

Ready to start tracking your health on-chain? Get $60 off your Cudis ring and 500 bonus reward points by visiting their website via this link: https://www.cudis.xyz/join?code=Solfate
and using code "Solfate" at checkout 

👋 Follow the co-hosts online

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13
• website: https://beunboxed.com

Follow Solfate Podcast on Twitter/X for updates: @solfatepod 

Thanks for watching frens :) 💖

A conversation with Yiwen (aka @oceanicursula), founder of Nitro Labs, the team behind @Terminaxyz.

Full notes for this episode at: https://solfate.com/podcast/73

Solfate Podcast

• Follow us on twitter and turn the notifs on: @SolfatePod
• Discover all our podcast episodes on our website: solfate.com/podcast
• Collect our episodes as NFTs on DRiP: drip.haus/solfate

Summary

In this episode of the Solfate Podcast, hosts James and Nick return after a brief hiatus to discuss groundbreaking innovations with Yiwen from Nitro Labs. The conversation dives deep into Nitro Labs’ product, Termina, which offers modular network extensions for the Solana ecosystem. They explore the concept of deconstructed rollups and how specific modules like the zkSVM prover, SVM engine, and Data Module allow for more efficient and targeted solutions. The discussion covers applications in DeFi, bridging, and the advantages of offloading high-compute tasks off-chain while ensuring on-chain security and verification. The episode also touches on the challenges and strategies for monetizing these advanced technical solutions.

00:00 Introduction to On-Chain Proof Verification

00:31 Welcome Back to the Podcast

00:54 Introducing Yiwen from Nitro Labs

01:03 Exploring Network Extensions and Deconstructed Rollups

05:04 Deep Dive into Solana and SVM

07:17 Shifting Focus to Solana Native Development

15:39 Understanding Asynchronous Settlement in DeFi

22:51 Beyond Rollups: The Future of Network Extensions

24:37 User Feedback and Modular Roll-Up Stack

25:01 Introducing the EZKS VM Improver

25:23 Challenges and Solutions in ZK VM Implementation

26:54 Proving Solana Transactions with ZK Prover

27:44 Bridging and Cross-Chain Transactions

31:18 Trustless Computation and Cryptographic Proofs

34:36 Real-World Applications and Use Cases

40:05 Monetizing ZK Prover and Developer Insights

45:56 Future of Network Extensions and Infrastructure

48:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Find Yiwen and Termina online

Follow Yiwen on Twitter/X: @oceanicursula

Follow Termina on Twitter/X: @Terminaxyz

Check out Termina at their website

Follow us around

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13

A conversation with Dana (aka @TheSoftwareJedi), Lead Backend Developer at @StepFinance_

Full notes for this episode at: https://solfate.com/podcast/71

Solfate Podcast

• Follow us on twitter and turn the notifs on: @SolfatePod
• Discover all our podcast episodes on our website: solfate.com/podcast
• Collect our episodes as NFTs on DRiP: drip.haus/solfate

Summary

In this conversation, Dana shares his journey of discovering Bitcoin from a homeless shelter and what he’s building now at Step Finance. The discussion covers his initial discovery of Bitcoin, his eventual embrace of Solana, the engineering challenges faced in data aggregation, and the innovations being implemented by Step Finance for real-time Solana data processing. The conversation wraps up with valuable advice for those looking to enter the field.

Takeaways

• Dana's journey into crypto began during a challenging time in his life.
• He discovered Bitcoin while in a homeless shelter, leading to a passion for crypto.
• His entry into Solana was sparked by a friend's recommendation.
• Being helpful in the Solana Discord community opened doors for Dana.
• Step Finance's mission resonated with Dana's passion for DeFi products.
• Providing value to the ecosystem builds trust and credibility.
• Dana highlights the importance of community in the crypto space.
• Step Finance is involved in various initiatives, including education in underbanked countries.
• Real-time data processing is essential for modern applications.
• Understanding the account model in Solana is vital for developers.
• Low-level programming knowledge is beneficial in blockchain development.
• Documentation is key to mastering new technologies.
• Engineers must adapt to evolving data structures and requirements.
• Maintaining performance while scaling is a common challenge.
• Hands-on experience with constrained environments can aid in blockchain development.

Follow us around

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13

A conversation with Daniel (aka @nicechute), co-founder and CEO @Lulo

Full notes for this episode at: https://solfate.com/podcast/70

Solfate Podcast

• Follow us on twitter and turn the notifs on: @SolfatePod
• Discover all our podcast episodes on our website: solfate.com/podcast
• Collect our episodes as NFTs on DRiP: drip.haus/solfate

Summary

In this episode, we welcome Daniel on the podcast, co-founder and CEO of Lulo, to discuss the birth and evolution of Lulo, a platform that simplifies DeFi. We explore the challenges faced in the DeFi space, the pivot from their original product to FlexLend, and the importance of user experience. The discussion also covers upcoming features, including a native app and an insurance product aimed at mitigating smart contract risks, ultimately positioning Lulo as a competitive player in the personal finance space.

We talk about the innovative features of Lulo, a DeFi platform designed to enhance user experience and safety in digital asset management. The discussion covers the importance of risk management in DeFi, the introduction of an insurance-like product to protect users' deposits, and the vision for Lulo as a comprehensive financial tool that simplifies crypto investments. We also discuss regulatory challenges and the future of Lulo as a leading crypto app, highlighting the platform's potential to attract a broader audience to DeFi.

Takeaways

• DeFi is perceived as hard to use, which hinders adoption.
• The original idea for Lulo was an order book for lending.
• The pivot to FlexLend was driven by user needs for simplicity. 
• Lulo's model allows for diversified risk management similar to traditional insurance.
• The future of Lulo includes features like debit cards and fiat onboarding.
• Lulo seeks to create a risk-free standard in the DeFi space.
• A simple UI can significantly enhance user experience.
• Launching a product early allows for easier iteration and feedback.
• Marketing strategies should align with product complexity.
• Lulo aims to compete with traditional finance apps like Robinhood. Safety is the number one concern for users in DeFi.
• The new insurance product helps manage risks associated with underlying protocols.
• Users will choose their risk level instead of specific apps in the new UX.
• Lulo aims to be the go-to crypto app for personal finance.
• The platform's efficiency improves as more DeFi pools are integrated.

Follow us around

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13

A conversation with Craig Mahoney (aka @Njord614), Founder @SuperPhoenixDAO

Full notes for this episode at: https://solfate.com/podcast/69

Solfate Podcast

• Follow us on twitter and turn the notifs on: @SolfatePod
• Discover all our podcast episodes on our website: solfate.com/podcast
• Collect our episodes as NFTs on DRiP: drip.haus/solfate

Summary

In this episode, we welcome Craig on the podcast to discuss the innovative concept of SuperPhoenixDAO, a project centered around acquiring and tokenizing in-game assets within the Star Atlas universe. They explore the economic implications of such investments, the social dynamics of gaming, and the potential for community engagement through decentralized governance. The discussion also touches on the development timeline of Star Atlas and the exciting possibilities of cross-game integration within the Solana ecosystem.

We discuss the role of SuperPhoenixDAO in connecting various ecosystems within the Web3 space, emphasizing the importance of creating unique user experiences. Our guest shares insights on current initiatives, future plans, and the challenges of fundraising in both Web2 and Web3 environments. The discussion highlights the symbiotic relationships between different projects and the maturation of the blockchain space, focusing on long-term investments and community engagement.

Takeaways

• SuperPhoenixDAO aims to build a social hub in Star Atlas.
• Tokenizing in-game assets can democratize ownership.
• Investing in virtual venues can yield real-world returns.
• The gaming economy is evolving with Web3 technologies.
• Community engagement is crucial for game development.
• Cross-game integration can enhance player experiences.
• The future of gaming lies in decentralized ecosystems. Creating a functional bond between different NFT communities is essential.
• SuperPhoenixDAO aims to be the connective tissue between isolated ecosystems.
• The focus on experiential design sets SuperPhoenixDAO apart from traditional blockchain projects.
• The upcoming token launch is a significant milestone for SuperPhoenixDAO.
• Gaming is a key area for onboarding new users to the crypto space.
• Long-term investments in Web3 projects are becoming more common.
• The mutually beneficial relationship between SuperPhoenixDAO and Star Atlas.

Follow us around

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13

Behind DSCVR: Building a Decentralized Social Network for the Web3 Era

A conversation with Rick Porter (aka @rckprtr), CEO @ DSCVR

Full notes for this episode at: https://solfate.com/podcast/68

Solfate Podcast

• Follow us on twitter and turn the notifs on: @SolfatePod
• Discover all our podcast episodes on our website: solfate.com/podcast
• Collect our episodes as NFTs on DRiP: drip.haus/solfate

Summary

In this conversation, Rick Porter, CEO and co-founder of DSCVR (pronounced Discover), discusses the evolution of his platform, a Web3 social network aimed at unlocking monetization, distribution, and ownership for users. He shares his background in crypto, the transition from previous projects to DSCVR, and the technical architecture that supports the platform. The discussion also delves into the complexities of the feed engine and user engagement strategies, highlighting the challenges and innovations in building a decentralized social network.

Rick Porter discusses the infrastructure and cost efficiency of data analytics on Solana vs Ethereum, the value of blockchain in social media, and the importance of transparency and accessibility for creators. He explores the philosophical implications of treating data as a utility and presents DSCVR as a new social platform for Web3 users. The discussion concludes with insights for builders in the ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of experimentation and self-belief.

Takeaways

• DSCVR aims to unlock monetization, distribution, and ownership for users.
• Blockchain provides decentralization and verifiability for social media. 
• DSCVR 's initial concept was to create a Reddit-like platform on-chain.
• User engagement is driven by a complex feed engine that customizes content for each user.
• The move to Solana was a significant step for DSCVR's development. Infrastructure costs for data analytics can be managed effectively.
• Rust offers significant cost savings compared to TypeScript systems.
• Transparency in social media empowers creators and users alike.
• Data should be accessible to everyone, akin to a utility.
• DSCVR offers a unique social experience for Web3 users.
• Building in the ecosystem requires experimentation and resilience.
• Don't underestimate your capabilities as a builder.

Find Rick and DSCVR online

• Follow Rick on twitter - @rckprtr
• Follow DSCVR on twitter - @dscvr1

Follow us around

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13

Mobile dev chat: Focus on DRiP app & Solana mobile, discussing cross-platform tools, security, UX & community. Key: protect secrets & prioritize performance.

Full notes for this episode at: https://solfate.com/podcast/67
Follow @SolfatePod on Twitter for updates: https://twitter.com/SolfatePod

PS: We are happy to announce the launch of our Solfate Drip channel where you can collect Solfate Podcast episodes as digital collectibles! Subscribe to our Drip channel today: drip.haus/solfate (we have some fun experiments planned)

Notes from the show

• Solana is the only place where mobile is a part of the conversation.
• You have to build an API to protect your secrets.
• Mobile apps are client side apps so developers should not trust the environment. Do not put secrets in your mobile apps.
• You can co-sign transactions and have them executed on the backend.
• DRiP is a mobile company, even if they don't realize it.
• You need to be way more active on Twitter. Web development skills are increasingly relevant for mobile developers.
• React Native is convenient but has performance limitations.
• Kotlin Compose offer a promising alternative for mobile development.
• Understanding UX differences is crucial in cross-platform development.
• Community feedback is essential for app improvement.
• Prototyping in mobile apps can help clarify ideas for product development.
• Performance is a key factor in user satisfaction with mobile apps.
• Developers should focus on building compelling features to retain users.
• Engaging with developer communities can provide valuable support and resources.

Find Andrew and DRiP online

• Follow Andrew on twitter - @creativedrewy
• Follow @drip_haus on twitter - @drip_haus

Follow us around

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13

Solfate Podcast

• twitter: @SolfatePod
• more podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast
• collect episodes on Drip: drip.haus/solfate

Building Web3 communities that matter: Inside Superteam Germany's strategy for sustainable growth in Solana.

Full notes for this episode at: https://solfate.com/podcast/66
Follow @SolfatePod on Twitter for updates: https://twitter.com/SolfatePod

PS: We are happy to announce the launch of our Solfate Drip channel where you can collect Solfate Podcast episodes as digital collectibles! Subscribe to our Drip channel today: drip.haus/solfate (we have some fun experiments planned)

Notes from the show

• Bekka moved to Germany for cultural opportunities and language learning.
• Superteam Germany was founded to support the Solana ecosystem.
• Community membership is capped at 150 to maintain meaningful connections.
• Germany's Superteam focuses on builders and technical development.
• Regional Superteams have unique strengths and focuses.
• Collaboration among Superteams enhances overall community growth.
• Bekka's artistic background influences her approach to Web3.
• Digital asset ownership revolutionizes creator relationships.
• Challenges in the NFT space can lead to personal growth.
• In-person events significantly impact community connections.
• Collaboration has changed lives in the Web3 space.
• Diversity of skills is essential for impactful projects.
• Communication is key to conveying vision and ideas.
• The ecosystem is evolving to include more non-technical roles.
• Creativity and collaboration can lead to innovative solutions.
• NFTs have potential beyond current applications.
• The importance of fostering a supportive community.
• Embracing the unknown can lead to exciting opportunities.

Find Bekka and SuperteamDE online

• Follow Bekka on twitter - @DrRebekkaRevel
• Follow SuperteamDE on twitter - @SuperteamDE

Follow us around

Nick

• twitter: @nickfrosty
• github: github.com/nickfrosty
• website: https://nick.af

James

• twitter: @jamesrp13
• github: github.com/jamesrp13

Solfate Podcast

• twitter: @SolfatePod
• more podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast
• collect episodes on Drip: drip.haus/solfate