Blockcast

Hosted by Blockhead.co

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Jun 2026

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Blockcast delivers unfiltered analysis of crypto's most compelling narratives. Each week, seasoned industry insider Takatoshi Shibayama sits down with founders, CEOs, and key players shaping the blockchain landscape to dissect emerging projects, market dynamics, and institutional moves. From trending protocols to strategic industry shifts, get an insider's take on the forces driving decentralized innovation and the decisions that matter. No fluff, no hype—just deep dives into what's really happening in crypto.

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60 recent

June 11, 202633 min

Licensed to Shill : The Future of DeFi – Tokenized Yield and Institutional Integration (Ben Nadareski, Solstice) | Blockcast 89

Stablecoins were phase one. Tokenized RWAs were phase two. Ben Nadareski, CEO and founder of Solstice, joins Taka and Lisa to make the case for phase three: tokenized yield – professional-grade yield strategies, on chain, accessible to institutions and retail investors through the same infrastructure.Ben breaks down how Solstice built a $500 million liquidity protocol on Solana, why they run their delta-neutral strategy on centralised exchanges instead of DeFi protocols, and what a four-and-a-half year trading track record actually looks like when you bring it on chain.The conversation also covers the recent wave of DeFi exploits – including the Drift hack and Kelp DAO – and why Ben thinks the problem isn't DeFi itself, but protocols that treat security as a tech problem rather than a financial management one. He walks through the three due diligence checks every DeFi investor should run before depositing capital, from proof-of-reserves attestations to multi-sig configurations.Plus: why Solstice launched its SLX governance token only after the business was already profitable, what Lisa looks for when advising early-stage protocols, and Ben's take on why the Solana Foundation is outperforming its L1 peers right now.More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

May 8, 2026Episode 8838 min

Licensed to Shill: Banks Aren't Here for Blockchain — Their Infrastructure Is Just Broken (Jeff Ko, CoinEx) | Blockcast 88

CoinEx's Jeff Ko joins the Licensed to Shill panel to discuss the current state of crypto, institutional adoption, cybersecurity, and infrastructural challenges. THe panel shares their insights on how traditional finance is converging with crypto, the importance of fixing industry vulnerabilities, and the role of Web2 in driving Web3 adoption.More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

April 22, 2026Episode 8739 min

Licensed to Shill: The Future of Crypto Payments & Settlement Layers (Colin Goltra, Morph) | Blockcast 87

Colin Goltra, CEO of Morph, joins hosts Takatoshi Shibayama and Lisa JY Tan, alongside co-host Nikhil Joshi (CEO, Emurgo), to discuss agentic commerce, stablecoin payment infrastructure, and what it means for an AI agent to transact independently of its human creator.More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

March 3, 2026Episode 8635 min

Licensed to Shill: Designing Decentralization: Governance, Power, and the Validator Problem (Tanisha Katara) | Blockcast 86

This episode digs into what actually happens after a protocol says it’s “decentralized.” Not the whitepaper version. The operational version.Tanisha Katara joins Taka, Lisa J.Y. Tan, and Nikhil Joshi to unpack how governance works once real money, real validators, and real incentives are involved. The conversation moves from academic theory to validator wealth concentration, then into AI agents negotiating with each other inside governance systems.Connect with Tanisha Katara:LinkedInTwitterMore at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

February 13, 2026Episode 8557 min

Licensed to Shill: How Energy and Geopolitics Are Unintentionally Building a Bitcoin-Driven World (Lara Eggimann & Jeff Gorman, Bitcoin Arabia) | Blockcast 85

The Middle East is poised to become a pivotal hub in the global cryptocurrency ecosystem. Countries within the region are increasingly recognizing the strategic importance of integrating blockchain technology into their economic frameworks, energy markets, and geopolitical strategies, according to Lara Eggimann and Jeff Gorman, co-founders of Bitcoin Arabia, a strategic Bitcoin advisory and ecosystem builder that connects the global Bitcoin industry with the Middle East’s most powerful stakeholders.From the regulatory shifts in Bahrain and the UAE to the energy-driven mining initiatives in Saudi Arabia and Oman, regional leadership seems committed to exploring blockchain's potential. As sovereigns and private players align their visions, expect the Middle East to be at the forefront of decentralizing power, safeguarding national assets, and pioneering new financial paradigms.The panel also explores the regulatory environment in various GCC countries, the potential for Bitcoin mining, and the implications of a multipolar world on global economics. The conversation highlights the unique challenges and opportunities within the region, emphasizing the importance of energy and regulatory frameworks in shaping the future of digital assets.More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

January 30, 2026Episode 841 hr 23 min

Licensed to Shill: What's in Store for 2026 – Stablecoins, the Future of DeFi.. and a Return of NFTs? | Blockcast 84

Licensed to Shill opens 2026 with a forward-looking conversation on the forces shaping the next phase of digital assets.Takatoshi Shibayama (Head of APAC, Ledger), Nikhil Joshi (COO, Emurgo), and Lisa JY Tan (Founder & Managing Director, Economics Design) share their expectations for the year ahead – where crypto infrastructure is maturing, where speculation is giving way to utility, and where new risks are emerging.They dig into the rise of stablecoins, AI-driven payments and customer service, and how personalization is reshaping consumer expectations. The discussion moves through regulation and compliance across jurisdictions, the impact of US policy shifts, and the growing importance of financial literacy as financial services become increasingly retail and software-driven.Real-world assets, prediction markets, NFTs beyond the hype cycle, and the role of SMEs in pushing practical adoption all feature as the panel weighs what’s likely to matter – and what’s likely to fade – in 2026.Chapters04:49 – Geopolitical Implications of Stablecoins12:45 – The Role of Money in a Tech-Driven World17:13 – Taxation and Non-Fiat Currency22:37 – Service Differentiation in a Tech-Driven Market31:06 – Financial Literacy and Education37:11 – Regulatory Challenges in Asset Tokenization50:17 – The Future of Prediction Markets01:00:30 – The Clarity Act and Its Implications01:11:38 – The Future of NFTs: Comeback and Utility?More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

January 16, 2026Episode 8336 min

Jito Foundation's Marc Liew on Why Institutions Are Turning to Solana | Blockcast 83

In this episode of Blockcast, Takatoshi Shibayama interviews Marc Liu, the head of APAC for Jito Foundation. They discuss Mark's career journey from working at Ripple to his current role at Jito Foundation, exploring the evolution of payment systems and the transformative impact of blockchain technology. Key topics include the role of stablecoins, the challenges of cross-border payments, and the future of decentralized finance.Chapters:Introduction to Mark LiuCareer Journey from Ripple to JitoBlockchain's Impact on PaymentsThe Role of StablecoinsChallenges in Cross-Border PaymentsDecentralized Finance and the FutureJito Foundation's Contributions to SolanaMore at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

December 12, 2025Episode 8237 min

Decentralization and Privacy: Insights from TEN Protocol's Cais Manai | Blockcast 82

In this episode of Blockcast, host Takatoshi Shibayama sits down with Cais Manai, co-founder of TEN Protocol, to delve into the intricacies of blockchain privacy and decentralization. Cais shares his journey from discovering Bitcoin in 2012 to co-founding TEN Protocol, a project focused on integrating privacy into Ethereum's Layer 2 solutions.More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

November 28, 2025Episode 8143 min

Licensed to Shill: Why Central Asia; Why Now? ft. Anthony Howe (GFTN) | Blockcast 81

The Licensed to Shill panel dives into the dynamic world of Central Asia, a region rapidly emerging as a pivotal hub for trade and innovation. Anthony Howe from the Global Finance Technology Network (GFTN) joins us to explore the untapped potential of this region, particularly focusing on Georgia's strategic role in the middle corridor.TakeawaysCentral Asia is a key hub for trade and innovation.Georgia's strategic location enhances its importance in the middle corridor.GFTN focuses on bridging policy, capital, and technology.Decentralized networks are crucial for regional development.Fintech is rapidly growing in Central Asia.Geopolitical influences shape the region's economic landscape.Digital transformation is a priority for Central Asian countries.Stablecoins and tokenization are emerging financial tools.Collaboration with central banks is essential for progress.The region's growth is driven by a young, tech-savvy population.More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.

November 14, 2025Episode 8039 min

Kaia's Path to Mass Adoption: Blockchain in Everyday Apps | Blockcast 80

Takatoshi Shibayama hosts Dr Sangmin "Sam" Seo and John Cho from the Kaia DLT Foundation. They discuss the merger of Kakao and Line to create the Kaia blockchain, the integration of stablecoins and DeFi into their messaging apps, and the strategies for attracting Web2 users to Web3. The conversation also covers the potential of stablecoins in cross-border remittance and the user journey from fiat to digital assets.TakeawaysKaia's merger of Japanese and Korean super apps aims to leverage blockchain technology for mass adoption.The integration of blockchain into messaging apps like Line and KakaoTalk is a key focus for Kaia.Kaia's strategy includes developing stablecoins and DeFi products with user-friendly interfaces.Kaia's focus is on quality over quantity in launching mini dApps, particularly in gaming.The potential of stablecoins for cross-border remittance in Asia is a significant opportunity.Kaia's FX engine aims to revolutionize on-chain FX trading with efficiency and cost-effectiveness.Kaia's approach to DeFi involves introducing intuitive, simple products to bridge Web2 and Web3 users.More at Blockhead.co and join us on Telegram to stay up to date with the latest news.🎙️ Hey there, Blockcast listeners! 🎙️ This podcast provides commentary and discussion on cryptocurrency and related topics. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Guests appearing on this podcast may discuss companies or strategies, but these discussions are not recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any particular asset or pursue any specific strategy. The hosts and guests are not financial advisors, and listeners are urged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Investments in cryptocurrency are inherently risky, and you could lose money.Reach us at hello@blockhead.co.