The Progressive Bitcoiner

Our guest today is Ian Calderon. Ian is a former California State Assembly member and the youngest Majority Leader in state history. During his eight years in office, he focused on strengthening California’s economy and fostering innovation, including helping establish the state’s Blockchain Working Group. After leaving the legislature to focus on family and business, he’s now running for governor of California. *Disclaimer* - The Progressive Bitcoiner Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit. As such we do not endorse candidates or parties - we lead with our values and mission to promote Bitcoin education, and focus on Bitcoin for social good and adjacent topics relevant to current events today, including the realm of society and politics. In this conversation, Ian discusses with Trey his journey from a professional surfer to the California State Assembly to a political candidate running for governor of California. He emphasizes the importance of homeownership, affordability, and the need for innovative solutions in government. Calderon advocates for the use of technology, particularly Bitcoin, as a means to provide financial security and improve government services and fiscal responsibility. This conversation focuses on the need for discussions around Bitcoin to move beyond political partisanship, and Ian’s hope that democrats can lead on issues of technology, including Bitcoin. This show is brought to you by you, our listeners! We rely on grassroots donations to support our media and education work. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner please donate to our nonprofit today: https://progressivebitcoiner.org/donate/ Follow Trey on X: https://x.com/ktreywalsh Follow Ian on X: https://x.com/IanCalderon and learn more at https://www.ianforgovernor.com/ To learn more about the Progressive Bitcoiner, head to our website: progressivebitcoiner.org This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

Margot and Patrick return after a hiatus, discussing their absence and the evolution of the podcast discussing these topics:Bitcoin's Cultural Shift - A deep dive into the changing narrative of Bitcoin, from a peer-to-peer cash system to a store of value for the wealthy. Stablecoin Legislation - An exploration of the recent stablecoin bill, its implications for private money, and the potential risks of corporate-controlled currencies. Libertarianism vs. Cooperation - A discussion on the balance between individual freedom and societal cooperation, and the potential pitfalls of extreme libertarian views. The Progressive Bitcoiner, Inc. is the 501c3 nonprofit progressive think tank and education hub exploring Bitcoin's social good use-cases, from human rights to economic empowerment and beyond. You can support our efforts by donating today: https://progressivebitcoiner.org/donate/To learn more, visit our websiteGET IN TOUCH:Follow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!OUR TEAM:Margot Paez: @jyn_urso | Patrick Linus: @LL3einS | Evan: @EvanPrim | Trey: @ktreywalsh This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

Join us as The Wise Rabbit shares his powerful journey from economics to activism, exploring the urgent need for climate action. In this thought-provoking discussion, we dive deep into the evolving role of Bitcoin in protest culture, the power of performance art in activism, and the importance of community in driving social change. 🌱 Discover the connection between decentralized activism, sustainability, and the Esperanto language as a tool for global cooperation. It's a conversation that blends economic systems, protest movements, and cutting-edge solutions for a better future! 🌎💬EXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s our favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. Head to bitbox.swiss/tpb and use code ‘TPB’ at checkout to get 5% off your purchase.You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner please donate to our nonprofit today: https://progressivebitcoiner.org/donate/To learn more, visit our websiteGET IN TOUCH:Follow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!OUR TEAM:Margot Paez: @jyn_urso | Patrick Linus: @LL3einS | Evan: @EvanPrim | Trey: @ktreywalsh This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

Catch up with Margot and Trey as they discuss their evolving roles in the podcast and their ambitious vision for the Progressive Bitcoiner nonprofit. Discover how Bitcoin can empower marginalized communities and drive positive change. From personal recovery insights to building a robust progressive movement, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and community-driven goals. EXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s our favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. Head to bitbox.swiss/tpb and use code ‘TPB’ at checkout to get 5% off your purchase.You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner please donate to our nonprofit today: https://progressivebitcoiner.org/donate/To learn more, visit our websiteGET IN TOUCH:Follow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!OUR TEAM:Margot Paez: @jyn_urso | Patrick Linus: @LL3einS | Evan: @EvanPrim | Trey: @ktreywalsh This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

In this conversation, Anjan Sundaram, a journalist and author, discusses his experiences in Rwanda, exploring themes of authoritarianism, the role of Western powers, and the personal narratives that shape journalism. He reflects on the complexities of living under a dictatorship, the normalization of fear, and the impact of international organizations on local governance. The discussion highlights the challenges of truth-telling in oppressive regimes and the importance of personal experience in understanding broader societal issues. In this conversation, Anjan discusses the complexities of public health initiatives in authoritarian regimes, the challenges faced by independent journalism, and innovative approaches to making journalism more sustainable and engaging. He emphasizes the importance of accountability in governance and the potential of technology, particularly Nostr, to reshape the media landscape and empower journalists. In this conversation, Anjan discusses the challenges faced by indigenous communities in their fight for environmental protection against industrial exploitation. He emphasizes the need for trust and understanding in communicating with these communities, who have a deep connection to their land. The discussion also touches on the ethical dilemmas surrounding resource extraction, the disconnect between modern society and nature, and the potential future of journalism in highlighting these issues. Anjan reflects on the evolutionary aspects of human behavior and the urgent need for a shift in perspective to address the ongoing environmental crisis.CHAPTERS:00:00:00 - Intro00:08:00 - Introduction of Journalist Anjan Sundaram00:13:07 - The Illusion of Democracy in Rwanda00:23:42 - Cultural Normalization of Fear00:47:07 - The Role of Journalism01:14:18 - The Disconnect Between Society and Nature01:26:37 - The Future of Journalism and Indigenous RightsEXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s our favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. Head to bitbox.swiss/tpb and use code ‘TPB’ at checkout to get 5% off your purchase.You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner and access rewards, including our new TPB merch, head to our geyser page: https://geyser.fund/project/tpbpodTo learn more, visit our websiteGET IN TOUCH:Follow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Threads | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!OUR TEAM:Margot Paez: @jyn_urso | Patrick Linus: @LL3einS | Damien: @DamienSomerset | Daniel: @Daniel | Evan: @EvanPrim | Trey: @ktreywalsh This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

In this conversation with Jason Brett, we discuss the implications of the recent election on Bitcoin and the cryptocurrency industry, focusing on the partisan dynamics that have emerged. They explore the role of key figures like Gary Gensler, the influence of super PACs, and the complexities of corporate involvement in politics. The discussion also touches on missed opportunities for political engagement and the need for a new strategy to educate and involve Democrats in the cryptocurrency conversation. In this conversation, the speaker reflects on the intersection of Bitcoin and politics, particularly in the context of recent events and conferences. They express concerns about the politicization of Bitcoin, the role of charisma in political leadership, and the regulatory landscape affecting cryptocurrency. The discussion also touches on the future of Bitcoin under a Trump administration and emphasizes the need to return to Bitcoin's core values as a nonpartisan technology that serves everyone.CHAPTERS:(00:00) Partisan Politics and Bitcoin & Gary Gensler(16:37) Super PACs & The Future of Crypto Politics (28:26) Political Engagement & Reflections on Crypto for Harris (44:52) The Nashville Conference Experience (48:22) Politics and Bitcoin: A Dangerous Intersection (60:10) Regulatory Landscape for Bitcoin (01:20:15) Returning to Bitcoin's Core ValuesEXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s our favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. Head to bitbox.swiss/tpb and use code ‘TPB’ at checkout to get 5% off your purchase. You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner and access rewards, including our new TPB merch, head to our geyser page: https://geyser.fund/project/tpbpodTo learn more, visit our websiteGET IN TOUCH:Follow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Threads | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!OUR TEAM:Margot Paez: @jyn_urso | Patrick Linus: @LL3einS | Damien: @DamienSomerset | Daniel: @Daniel | Evan: @EvanPrim | Trey: @ktreywalsh This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

In this episode of the Progressive Bitcoiner podcast, host Margot Paez engages with Alan Minsky, the executive director of the Progressive Democrats of America, to discuss the upcoming presidential election and the evolving political landscape in the U.S. They reflect on the impact of the Occupy Wall Street movement, the role of progressive politics within the Democratic Party, and the challenges faced by candidates like Kamala Harris. The conversation also touches on the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel and Palestine, and the disillusionment among voters with the two-party system. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the emotional impact of genocide, the political choices facing voters, and the implications of different administrations on civil liberties and protests. They discuss the rise of right-wing ideologies, the influence of Silicon Valley on politics, and the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party. The conversation highlights the appeal of right-wing populism and the challenges facing progressive politics in the current landscape.EXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s our favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. Head to bitbox.swiss/tpb and use code ‘TPB’ at checkout to get 5% off your purchase.You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner and access rewards, including our new TPB merch, head to our geyser page: https://geyser.fund/project/tpbpodTo learn more, visit our websiteGET IN TOUCH:Follow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Threads | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!OUR TEAM:Margot Paez: @jyn_urso | Patrick Linus: @LL3einS | Damien: @DamienSomerset | Daniel: @Daniel | Evan: @EvanPrim | Trey: @ktreywalsh This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

Margot Paez on her return to independent journalism. Will this upset people inside and outside the world of bitcoin equally? Will The Progressive Bitcoiner's social media burst? Let's find out together!EXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s my favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner and access rewards, including our new TPB merch, head to our geyser page: https://geyser.fund/project/tpbpodTo learn more, visit our websiteFollow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Threads | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!OUR TEAM:Margot Paez: @jyn_urso | Patrick Linus: @LL3einS | Damien: @DamienSomerset | Daniel: @Daniel | Evan: @EvanPrim This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

"This is a call to action to the listeners. Only you can do it, the power is within you. That's how this works. It takes everybody—takes a village.” - MargotMy guest today is Margot Paez. Margot is a climate change physicist and PhD candidate at the Georgia Institute of Technology, focusing on research relating to climate change statistical based modeling, bitcoin mining, and combating misinformation regarding bitcoin mining and the environment. She is also a Fellow at the Bitcoin Policy Institute. In this final episode of The Progressive Bitcoiner, we discuss the evolution of Bitcoin, the death of the traditional progressive movement, the future of political movements, and the future of left grassroots movements and why more people from the left should care about Bitcoin. We explore how Bitcoin transcends partisan lines and challenges conventional political thinking, while also reflecting on the progressive bitcoiner movement over the last several years. Follow Margot on XYou can find Trey on nostr and via the pod’s social channelsEXCLUSIVE SPONSORS:BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s my favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. Use promo-code TPB during checkout at https://bitbox.swiss/tpb to get 5% off your purchase.You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner and access rewards, including our new TPB merch, head to our geyser page: https://geyser.fund/project/tpbpodPROMO CODES:Sazmining: Hosted Bitcoin mining made easy, using 100% cheap and renewable energy. Get $50 off the purchase of a miner using the following link: https://app.sazmining.com/purchase?ref=byyhN2mCGXluLightning Store: Head to https://lightning.store/ and use promo-code ‘TPB’ to get 20% off all products.To learn more, visit our websiteFollow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Threads | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTokJoin in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!The Team: Producer/Editor: @DamienSomerset | Branding/Art: @Daniel | Website: @EvanPrim This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

"Bitcoin calls upon all of us to act in some way, in some manner. You know, just because you bought it is the most basic thing that you can do." - Dr. Mark StephanyMy guest today is Dr. Mark Stephany. Mark is the former host of The Progressive Bitcoiner, author and board-certified internal medicine physician. In this episode we discuss the challenges of promoting Bitcoin to progressives, the need for political engagement in Bitcoin, what taking action in the face of adversity may look like and living an examined life. We explore the tensions between idealism and pragmatism in the Bitcoin community, the importance of questioning one's beliefs, and persevering through hardship. Purchase Mark’s book, “SOVEREIGN HEALTH: Reclaim Your Health and Your Life” here Follow Mark on X and nostrYou can find Trey on nostr and via the pod’s social channels. You can also connect with him in the pod’s public telegram group or via the contact form on our website.BitBox: Get the open-source Bitbox02 Bitcoin only edition. It’s my favorite bitcoin hardware wallet for you to take self-custody of your bitcoin and keep your private keys safe in cold storage. Use promo-code ‘TPB’ during checkout at bitbox.swiss/tpb to get 5% off your purchase, including accessories and merch!You, our listener! Thank you to our supporters. To support The Progressive Bitcoiner and access rewards, including our new TPB merch, head to our geyser page: https://geyser.fund/project/tpbpod. You can also now support our work via Patreon.PROMO CODES:Sazmining: Hosted Bitcoin mining made easy, using and 100% renewable energy. Get $50 off the purchase of a miner using the following link: https://app.sazmining.com/purchase?ref=byyhN2mCGXluFold App: Fold is the best way to earn bitcoin back on everything you do. Use the Fold Visa debit card, and purchase gift cards from the Fold Store, to earn bitcoin on everyday purchases. Get 20,000 sats with your first Fold Card purchase using our referral link - https://use.foldapp.com/r/CKVX3C4CLightning Store: Head to https://lightning.store/ and use promo-code ‘TPB’ to get 20% off all products.To learn more, visit our websiteFollow the pod on X | Nostr | Bluesky | Instagram | Threads | Facebook | LinkedIn |Join in on the conversation at our Progressive Bitcoiner Community telegram group!The Team: Producer/Editor: @DamienSomerset | Branding/Art: @Daniel | Website: @EvanPrim This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com