The Get Down: Beyond Bitcoin

In this episode of The Get Down, host Ritzy P. sits down with Tiffany J. Smith to discuss the importance of understanding the intersection between old rules and new technologies in the regulatory and compliance space and the need to focus on financial inclusion rather than political affiliations. They also discuss the success of the inaugural Blockchain Brain Trust Retreat at Martha’s Vineyard and what the event will look like this year.  Also, Cleve Mesidor talks about what the current political landscape can mean for the future of crypto policy and regulation here in the US.

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Tiffany J. Smith is a partner at WilmerHale and Co-Chair of the Firm’s Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Working Group. She has over a decade of experience advising and representing broker-dealers, financial institutions, and technology companies (including crypto companies) on cutting-edge regulatory and compliance matters. She has a broad client base including traditional financial institutions, crypto exchanges, NFT issuers and platforms, Web3 companies, and payment platforms.

We discuss:

• Understanding the intersection between old rules and new technologies is crucial in the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry.
• Bringing Web3 to Martha's Vineyard provides an opportunity to educate political leaders and policymakers in a relaxed setting.
• The success of the inaugural Blockchain Brain Trust Retreat by bringing together Black leaders in the industry and facilitating networking and knowledge sharing.
• How the changing policy landscape in the crypto industry should focus on financial inclusion and understanding the impact on daily lives.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

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In this episode of The Get Down, host Ritzy P sits down with Corey “Jayohcee” Jocko to discuss how he has utilized blockchain and NFTs to showcase his art and music, and how it has provided new opportunities for indigenous artists. Corey also highlights the significance of archiving Indigenous culture and land rights on the blockchain, as well as the potential for physical-digital hybrid experiences in the future... Also, Cleve Mesidor talks about butterscotch media’s focus on policy, not partisan politics.

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Corey Jocko, known as Jayohcee, is an artist, activist, and performer from Akwesasne/Turtle Island. He is a First Nations Mohawk Warrior who is also a hip-hop artist from the Akwesasne Mohawk Reserve which is straddled in between what is now the US and Canadian border. Naturally driven and motivated, Jayohcee created and headlined his “For The Love of Music Tour” Summer 2016 and did 'Wake Up the World Tour' early 2017 with his brothers after their time at Standing Rock.  Jayohcee has performed, presented workshops, and shared his story all throughout North America, leading to a family and fan base that expands globally. 

We discuss:

• How representation is crucial for marginalized communities in the web3 space.
• Archiving Indigenous culture and land rights on the blockchain is important for preserving history and identity.
• The potential for physical-digital hybrid experiences in the future, where physical artworks can be paired with digital NFTs.
• Policies should prioritize the well-being of people and the planet over monetary interests.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

CONNECT WITH JAYOHCEE:

X (formerly Twitter)Instagram

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FinTech TV Network: https://fintech.tv/category/the-get-down-podcast-series/

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This episode of The Get Down podcast is all about the future of work and life in the digital age! Special Guest Damu Winston, the global head of Web3 Innovation at Amazon, shares his career journey and insights on the future of work in the digital age. He emphasizes the importance of including marginalized communities, such as Black and Brown individuals, in the conversation and opportunities of emerging technologies. Additionally, Ritzy P and Cleve Mesidor discuss bringing butterscotch Media to the Democratic National Convention in August.

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Damu Winston is the global head of Web3 Innovation at Amazon and two-time best-selling author, notably with his 2019 work ‘I Don’t Trust You, But Blockchain and Bitcoin Will Help’. A global thought leader recognized for pioneering advancements in emerging technologies at Amazon and other Fortune 50 corporations, Damu has a proven track record across the Aviation, Travel, Real Estate, Financial Services, Nuclear Energy, Healthcare & Public Health, Public Sector, and Information Technology sectors.

We discuss:

• Damu’s nonlinear career path that led him to working with emerging technologies.
• How emerging technologies like blockchain, AI and spatial computing lack diversity and inclusion of marginalized groups.
• Digital identity and assets and their growing importance as technology changes rapidly.
• The importance of maintaining curiosity and following where it leads you.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

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On this episode of The Get Down, Cleve Mesidor sits down with Joshua Rivera, Operating Partner and General Counsel at blockchain investment firm Blockchain Capital, to discuss blockchain startups, entrepreneurship, and the evolving regulatory landscape. Joshua shares his journey from lawyer to blockchain advocate and insights from his work investing in innovative crypto projects. 

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Joshua Rivera is the General Counsel of Blockchain Capital. He is an expert in the legal and regulatory issues attending various aspects of the crypto industry including token protocols, DeFi, DAOs, NFTs and digital asset commodities and securities, and he has extensive experience analyzing the blockchain industry’s rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. Before joining Blockchain Capital, Joshua worked as a senior associate at Cooley LLP where he was part of the firm’s cryptocurrency and blockchain practice counseling exchanges, investors and blockchain developers.

We discuss:

• Blockchain Capital’s history and investment in crypto startups.
• The role of the Blockchain Association in educating lawmakers and shaping policy.
• The importance of regulatory clarity for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
• Advice for young founders in the blockchain and crypto space.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

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FinTech TV Network: https://fintech.tv/category/the-get-down-podcast-series/

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This episode of The Get Down podcast features an insightful conversation on financial inclusion and the potential of emerging technologies like blockchain and AI. Special guest Betsabe Botaitis shares her unique career journey from traditional banking to entrepreneurship in FinTech and web3, and how her diverse experiences have fueled her passion for impacting underserved communities. Plus, host Ritzy P and Cleve Mesidor discuss the direction of butterscotch Media now that the podcast has launched!

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Betsabe Botaitis serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Hedera, a trusted blockchain layer for enterprises, where she is responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting activities, including token economics and strategy. Prior to joining Hedera, Betsabe held senior finance positions at various high-growth companies including Uplift, Kueski, LendingClub, and Citigroup. Betsabe is on the advisory board of the NASDAQ Entrepreneurial Center and is a member of the Fortune Most Powerful Women.

This episode discusses:

• Betsabe’s nonlinear career path from large financial institutions to startups and her role as CFO of Hedera.
• How blockchain technologies like stablecoins can revolutionize access to financial services globally.
• The importance of finance professionals having an understanding of both traditional and newer digital assets.
• Potential for blockchain to improve data integrity and decision-making in healthcare and longevity.

Blockchain has the ability to solve long-standing problems of trust and efficiency across multiple industries. By leveraging the emerging technologies like blockchain and AI, we can create more inclusive and equitable financial systems worldwide. We hope you walk away feeling inspired by Betsabe’s commitment to using her skills and experiences to empower underserved communities.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

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Hedera

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NOTE: The views expressed are Schonda's own, not those of Coin Metrics. Her views are not investment advice.

In this episode of The Get Down podcast, host Ritzy P discusses the importance of inclusivity and bipartisanship in crypto policymaking with Cleve Mesidor of Butterscotch Media. They are joined by special guest Shonda Fields of Coin Metrics, who shares her experience bridging traditional finance and digital assets.

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Schonda Fields is the Director of Products for Indexing at Coin Metrics, which is a data warehouse for digital assets. She's based in Brooklyn NYC and has an extensive background in finance, including the London Stock Exchange group, attempting to bridge the gap between traditional finance and web three.

This episode discusses:

• How bipartisanship is crucial for advancing meaningful crypto policy and regulation.
• What indexing is and how it impacts digital assets.
• Bridging traditional finance knowledge with crypto helps increase understanding across sectors.
• How authentic relationships built over time are important for learning and career progression.

While still early, the merging of traditional finance and cryptocurrency holds great potential for innovation and inclusion. By getting involved, building connections, and maintaining an open mind, you can be a part of shaping this evolving industry for the better. The insights shared in this discussion offer a starting point for your own journey at the intersection of these worlds.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

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On this episode of the Butterscotch podcast, The Get Down, Cleve Mesidor and Ritzy P discuss their mission to amplify diverse voices in the emerging tech space. As the founder of Butterscotch Media and a former Obama administration staffer, Cleve shares her journey from politics into crypto and why decentralization was her calling.

Ritzy P, founder of Ritzy Periwinkle, dives into her work promoting creative innovation, community impact, and inclusive metaverse experiences. She also previews her new podcast focusing on underrepresented communities building in Web3.

Cleve and Ritzy reflect on their experience at Consensus 2024, including thought-provoking panels on digital identity and investing for social good. They emphasize the need for more educational resources and stories that help newcomers see themselves in crypto.

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We discuss:

• Launch of Butterscotch media and its impact
• Inclusivity and diversity in the Web3 and DeFi space
• Insights into the Consensus Conference and its significance
• The intersection of politics and crypto
• Personal journeys and experiences shared by the speakers

Tune in for insights on Butterscotch's newsletter, podcast and events and how they spotlight inclusion through interviews with leaders like Judy Mann and Lule. Cleve and Ritzy also discuss the importance of amplifying diverse voices to democratize change in this new digital revolution.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, ensure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

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CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA:

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FinTech TV Network: https://fintech.tv/category/the-get-down-podcast-series/

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In this special bonus episode of The Get Down, Cleve Mesidor interviews Rashan Colbert, Head of Policy at dYdX Trading, live at Consensus by CoinDesk. They discuss the current regulatory landscape of crypto and the challenges of achieving bipartisanship in the industry. He emphasizes the need for education and a shift in the narrative beyond just store of value. 

Rashan also delves into the role of DeFi and the need for a workable regulatory framework that aligns with the unique nature of decentralized finance. He shares his personal journey into the crypto industry and highlights the importance of understanding the blind spots and motivations of policymakers.

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Rashan Colbert is the Head of Policy at dYdX Trading, where he leads the company’s legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and beyond. dYdX Trading’s mission is to democratize access to financial opportunity through DeFi. Before joining dYdX Trading, Rashan worked on Capitol Hill in the office of New Jersey Senator Cory Booker (D). Rashan concentrated on the Senator’s work in the Senate Commerce Committee, including Technology and Telecommunications, as well as efforts on the Senate Agriculture Committee, specifically on Digital Assets. Rashan also has campaigning experience as a previous staffer for Gov. Martin O'Malley's PAC, O'Say Can You See, as well as in congressional races and two presidential campaigns–the Cory Booker (2020) and Martin O'Malley (2016) campaigns.

We discuss:

• The current regulatory landscape of crypto is evolving, and achieving bipartisanship in the industry is a challenge.
• Education and a shift in the narrative beyond just store of value are essential for policymakers to understand the broader implications of blockchain technology.
• DeFi requires a workable regulatory framework that aligns with its unique nature, and a thoughtful approach is necessary to address the risks and tradeoffs involved.
• Understanding the blind spots and motivations of policymakers is crucial for advocating for a fair and balanced regulatory and policy framework in the crypto industry.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

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In this episode, Elena Giralt shares about being at the forefront of increasing diversity and inclusion in the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry since the early days. As the founder of Blockchain Latinx and a senior product manager, she has played a pivotal role in empowering underrepresented communities through education and advocacy.

In a recent conversation, Elena shared her journey of getting involved in digital currencies back in 2016 through a transformative college course. This sparked a passion that led her to help establish one of the first communities focused on the Latinx perspective - Blockchain Latinx. Now entering its fifth year, the organization has provided an ongoing safe space for discussions exploring both opportunities and limitations of the emerging technology.

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Elena Sofia Giralt is the Founder of Blockchain Latinx & Senior Product marketing manager at Hiro systems. She designs workshops, hosts meetups, and enjoys volunteering. She is interested in blockchain technology, journalism, and privacy. In the past, she has interned at NBC, worked for the Electric Coin Company (Zcash), and Future Today Institute.

We discuss:

• Communities like Blockchain Latinx play an important role in creating safe spaces for underrepresented groups to learn and engage with blockchain/crypto.
• The Latino community involved in the industry has grown significantly in terms of both size and diversity of interest groups since 2018.
• Ensuring more equitable funding and media coverage for communities of color is important to foster greater diversity, inclusion, and opportunity for success in web3.
• Digital privacy is an underexplored use case that Elena believes will be transformative for the industry.
• Meeting with policymakers through the annual Women of Color in Blockchain delegation facilitates important discussions around regulatory frameworks.
• There are many talented Latino founders and projects in the space doing impactful work that deserve more visibility.
• Elena prioritizes community building and is an accessible resource for others looking to learn and get involved in web3.

Beyond her professional contributions, Elena's passion for community radio revealed another layer of her personality. For anyone looking to get involved, she remains an accessible online resource through Twitter to learn more about exciting projects and talented founders of color shaping the future of this burgeoning technology.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

CONNECT WITH ELENA GIRALT:

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

Twitter: @elenita_tweets

Website: https://www.elenagiralt.com/

Company website: https://www.hiro.so/

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Lule Demmissie, the US CEO of eToro, discusses the transformation of the 21st century retail investor. She emphasizes the importance of democratizing finance and giving people access to capital markets. Lule highlights the changing profile of retail investors, who are now more diverse and perceive investing as accessible to them. 

She also discusses the role of risk in investing and the need for retail investors to have a range of investment options. Lule encourages individuals to lean into the intellectual aspect of investing, build a community, and explore different investment strategies.

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Lule Demmissie has a passion for the study of consumer behavior and addressing the financial needs of everyday investors. Lule Demmissie is a champion of regular folks having easy access to capital markets and digital assets as a means of wealth creation and driving more ways capital formation and inclusion. Lover of all things lean and product innovation. A deep appreciation of design thinking in shaping user-centric solutions. Lule Demmissie launched many successful products and services that have raised billions of dollars. Bottomline, a battle-tested business leader, executor, and thought leader. A forever aspiring servant leader.

We discuss:

• The profile of retail investors has become more diverse, and investing is no longer seen as exclusive to the wealthy.
• Risk is an important aspect of investing, and retail investors should have access to a range of investment options to diversify their portfolios.
• Retail investors should lean into the intellectual aspect of investing, build a community, and explore different investment strategies.
• Investing can empower individuals and have an antidote effect on their mindset, even with small amounts of money.

Through thought leadership, advocacy and platforms like eToro, Lule Demmissie is transforming retail investing for the 21st century. Her efforts aim to achieve true financial inclusion and equitable wealth-building opportunities for all.

Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space.

CONNECT WITH LULE DEMMISSIE:

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X (formerly Twitter) @luledemmissie

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FinTech TV Network: https://fintech.tv/category/the-get-down-podcast-series/

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