ReFi Podcast

Hosted by Tereza Bízková, Maya Z. Dentzel

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Latest episode

Apr 2025

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EN-US

About the show

The regenerative finance (ReFi) movement in web3 offers hope to both the climate conscious and the crypto-curious. At the intersection of these two unlikely worlds lies an ecosystem of innovation answering "How do we redesign money and heal the earth?"

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60 recent

April 14, 20251 hr 1 min

Reflecting on Regeneration Nexus with Tereza Bízková and Maya Dentzel | S4 Bonus

In this bonus episode of the ReFi Podcast, Tereza and Maya look back on Season 4, 'The Regeneration Nexus,' and discuss their key learnings and favorite moments. They delve into the conceptual foundation and structure of the season, explore the intersection of personal mindfulness practices with the broader themes of regeneration, and discuss the importance of measurable case studies in the ReFi space. The hosts also tackle the role of technology, specifically AI, and its impact on environmental stewardship. They emphasize the importance of storytelling and communication in advancing regenerative finance, and share personal reflections and practices that help them stay grounded. Finally, they offer a call to action for listeners to share their thoughts and favorite moments from the season as they look forward to future explorations in the ReFi movement.👉 ReFi Podcast: https://x.com/ReFiPodcast👉 ReFi DAO: https://x.com/refidaoist👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Tereza's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tereza-bizkova/👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel👉 Tereza's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayazdentzel/00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:47 Season Four Finale: The Regeneration Nexus01:08 Reflecting on Season Four02:41 The Genesis of the Regeneration Nexus03:35 Exploring the Miniseries: Vision, Practice, and Tools07:13 Key Moments and Personal Highlights12:48 Rose, Bud, and Thorn Reflections25:21 Personal Journeys in Refi32:56 Metaphors and Case Studies in Content Creation34:16 The Role of AI and Human-Centric Approaches34:58 Language and Communication in Regenerative Movements36:08 Interdisciplinary Challenges and Web338:01 Inner Regeneration and Mindfulness43:03 Yoga and ReFi Values46:38 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights56:40 Future of ReFi and Community Collaboration01:00:24 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

April 7, 202554 min

From Green Rush to ReFi Realism with David Fortson and Sandra Ponce De Leon | S4 Bonus

In this bonus episode of the ReFi podcast, hosted by Maya Dentzel, guests David Fortson and Sandra Ponce De Leon delve into the evolution of the regenerative finance space, transitioning from the initial excitement of the 'green rush' to a more grounded realism. They discuss creating sustainable business models, building regenerative communities, and the importance of trust and collaboration. The conversation also touches on the recent proposal for a region brand commons to ensure the integrity of regenerative efforts and avoid greenwashing. The episode concludes with practical advice and inspiration for the community to keep shipping and staying creative.👉 ReFi Podcast: https://x.com/ReFiPodcast👉 ReFi DAO: https://x.com/refidaoist👉 David's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fortson-19692715/👉 Sandra's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandraponcedeleon/👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Tereza's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tereza-bizkova/👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel👉 Tereza's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayazdentzel/00:00 Introduction to Regenerative Finance00:28 Meet the Guests: David Fortson and Sandra Ponce De Leon02:17 Big Picture: Trends and Future of Regenerative Finance02:39 Personal Journeys into Regenerative Finance09:13 Communicating ReFi to the Wider Audience11:25 Challenges and Realities of the ReFi Space18:18 Future Directions and Optimism in ReFi27:59 The Importance of Patience in Regeneration28:12 Creativity and Fun in Environmental Efforts29:06 Challenges and Solutions in Community Engagement29:38 Onboarding and Economic Systems in Crypto30:56 Building Trust in Global Communities32:39 Overcoming Obstacles in Web3 Adoption36:16 The Role of Delight in Product Development40:10 The Regen Commons Debate51:11 Rapid Fire Questions52:42 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

March 17, 20251 hr 6 min

Incubating New Societies with Timour Kosters | S4Bonus: Regeneration Nexus

In this bonus episode of The ReFi Podcast, Timour Kosters, co-founder of Edge City, discusses the emerging trend of month-long pop-up cities where technology, science, and culture pioneers collaborate to envision a better future. He delves into the organizational philosophy of Edge City, emphasizing a generative, emergent, and regenerative approach. Timour charts his professional journey from a background in math and economics to organizing these unique social experiments. He shares inspiring stories, challenges faced, and the overarching vision for scaling these temporary cities into a global network, with the potential for permanent solutions that drive systemic change and human flourishing.👉 ReFi Podcast: https://x.com/ReFiPodcast👉 ReFi DAO: https://x.com/refidaoist👉 Edge City Website: https://www.edgecity.live/👉 Zulalu Website: https://www.zuzalu.city/👉 Timour Kosters LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timkosters/👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel00:00 Introduction to Generative and Emergent Events00:23 Welcome to the ReFi Podcast00:24 Exploring Pop-Up Cities with Timour Kosters01:59 Timour's Journey and Background04:45 The Concept of Pop-Up Communities07:57 The Birth of Edge City12:23 Addressing Criticisms and Inclusivity20:11 Innovative Experiments and Community Currency26:28 Governance Mechanisms and Public Goods31:47 Regeneration and Systemic Change35:49 Surprising Sessions and Overlapping Theories of Change36:56 Planning Future Pop-Up Cities: Key Lessons and Challenges42:47 Navigating Collaboration and Competition Among Pop-Up Cities46:39 Ideal Participants and Handling Difficult Situations51:54 Overcoming Unexpected Challenges: The Flood in Chiang Mai56:41 The Future of Pop-Up Cities: A Sneak Peek into the Master Plan01:04:05 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

December 23, 2024Episode 1254 min

Web3 for Climate Action with Wes Geisenberger | S4E12: Regeneration Nexus

In this concluding episode of the ReFi podcast's fourth season, Maya and Tereza dive into sustainable technology with Wes Geisenberger, Vice President of Sustainability and ESG at the HBAR Foundation. The discussion spans various topics including the essential role of blockchain in addressing climate issues, insights from COP events, and Hedera's strategies for promoting sustainability. Wes highlights the significance of focusing on impact over financialization, the need for robust systems, and the promising potential of open-source technologies to facilitate large-scale sustainable initiatives. Practical advice for new entrants into the climate and Web3 intersection is also shared. Links 👉 ReFi Podcast: twitter.com/ReFiPodcast 👉 ReFi DAO: twitter.com/refidaoist 👉 Wes’s LinkedIn profile: linkedin.com/in/wesgeisenberger/ 👉 The HBAR Foundation’s Website: hbarfoundation.org/ 👉 Regenerative Finance Forum: youtube.com/watch?v=GQNnjJbsAb8 👉 Hedera grants: hbarfoundation.org/apply 👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel Timestamps [00:00] Introduction to Technology and Its Role [00:48] Guest Introduction: Wes Gisenberger [01:09] Reflections on ReFi and Technology [02:00] Interview with Wes: COP Takeaways [02:35] Blockchain and Carbon Markets [04:02] Challenges and Opportunities in Carbon Markets [04:50] The Role of Blockchain in Climate Finance [06:04] Hedera's Mission and Vision [06:28] Digitizing Methodologies and Open Source [07:07] Building Capacity for Carbon Markets [17:27] Hedera's Ecosystem and Sustainable Impact Fund [28:43] State-Based Smart Contracts and Logging Technology [29:28] Tokenization and Carbon Markets on Hedera [30:58] Personal Journey into Climate Sustainability [32:46] Challenges and Solutions in Environmental Data Management [38:12] Interoperability in Blockchain and Climate Standards [41:01] The Role of Technology in Climate Action [45:50] Scaling the ReFi Space and Community Engagement [49:18] Advice for Aspiring Change Makers [51:47] Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

December 9, 2024Episode 1141 min

Nature as Technology with Anna Lerner | S4E11: Regeneration Nexus

In this episode of the ReFi podcast, we speak with Anna Lerner, CEO of the Climate Collective, about her journey in using technology to combat climate change. Anna discusses the importance of product market fit for climate tech entrepreneurs, the potential of AI and blockchain in driving environmental accountability, and the crucial role of engaging local communities in climate projects. She emphasizes the need to shift focus from blaming countries for past damages to redirecting harmful subsidies towards climate and biodiversity goals. The conversation also highlights successful projects leveraging AI and blockchain for measurable environmental impact. 👉 ReFi Podcast: twitter.com/ReFiPodcast 👉 ReFi DAO: twitter.com/refidaoist 👉 Anna's LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-lerner-nesbitt-0569111 👉 Climate Collective: climatecollective.org/ 👉Nature Tech Report: www.naturetechreport.com/ 👉Climate Collective's Report: climatecollective.org/indigenous-shareholdership 👉 Tereza's X profile: x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel 00:00 Introduction to Nature Impact in Business 00:34 Welcome to the Refi Podcast 00:35 Interview with Kennedy Nana 01:20 Introducing Anna, CEO of Climate Collective 01:35 Anna's Journey in Climate Innovation 02:43 Early Career and First Job in Mozambique 04:09 Challenges and Equity in Climate Action 05:44 Biggest Challenges in Climate Finance 09:35 Technological Solutions for Climate Action 10:10 The Role of Nature and Technology 14:40 Blockchain and Climate Finance 18:13 The Evolution of Refi and Blockchain 19:50 Biodiversity Credit Markets 33:40 Successful Climate Tech Founders 37:24 Funding and Practical Tips for Climate Tech 38:52 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

December 2, 2024Episode 1049 min

Embedding Culture into Tech with Constanza Gomez Mont | S4E10: Regeneration Nexus

In this episode of the ReFi Podcast, we welcome Constanza Gomez Mont, a renowned social entrepreneur and founder of C Mind and AI for Climate. Mont shares her extensive experience in leveraging AI and emerging technologies to address environmental challenges, particularly in Latin America. She discusses the significance of integrating cultural and traditional knowledge with modern tech, emphasizing a shift towards regenerative and inclusive solutions. Tune in to hear Mont's inspirational journey from founding an action tank to pioneering groundbreaking conservation projects, including AI-driven biodiversity credits and biodiversity credits for protection of jaguars. This episode offers valuable insights into ethical AI, sustainable development, and the imperative roles of governments and local communities in fostering transformational change.👉 ReFi Podcast: https://twitter.com/ReFiPodcast 👉 ReFi DAO: https://twitter.com/refidaoist 👉 Constanza’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/constanzagomezmont👉 CMinds Website: https://www.cminds.co/ 👉 For Climate AI: https://www.forclimate.ai/ 👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel 00:00 Introduction to AI and Cultural Relevance 00:38 Meet Constanza Gomez Mont 02:01 Constanza's Journey and Vision 03:19 The Role of AI in Conservation 18:32 Challenges in Tech Adoption 25:40 Engaging Indigenous Communities 38:59 The Role of Governments and Policies 46:12 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions

November 25, 20241 hr 13 min

Regenerative Technology with Jessica Groopman & Danielle Lanyard | S4E9: Regeneration Nexus

In this episode of the ReFi podcast, hosts Maya and Tereza sit down with Jessica Groopman and Danielle Lanyard, the visionary co-founders of the Regenerative Technology Project. Together, they explore the transformative potential of regenerative technology across various domains. Jessica’s journey from archaeology to Silicon Valley and Danielle’s holistic approach provide a well-rounded view of how technology can serve living systems. Key topics discussed include integrating regenerative principles into the tech sector, the convergence of technology and sustainability, and the roles of blockchain and AI in fostering regenerative systems. The episode also delves into practical implementations, featuring case studies on Materiom, Ecosia, and Fairbnb, and assesses the cultural and financial barriers to scaling emerging technologies. 👉 ReFi Podcast: https://twitter.com/ReFiPodcast 👉 ReFi DAO: https://twitter.com/refidaoist 👉 Regenerative Technology Project’s website: https://www.regentech.co/about/👉 Jessica’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicagroopman/ 👉 Danielle’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlanyard/ 👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel 00:00 Introduction to Regenerative Technology 00:47 Meet the Guests: Jessica Groopman and Danielle Lanyard 02:25 Jessica's Journey: From Archaeology to Regenerative Tech 07:49 Danielle's Path: From Meditation to Tech Innovation 19:16 Defining Regenerative Technology 23:00 Research Insights and Challenges 37:00 The Importance of a Holistic Approach 38:36 Challenges in Implementing Regenerative Technology 40:46 Examples of Regenerative Technology Projects 55:57 The Role of Blockchain in Regeneration 01:01:31 The Impact and Potential of AI 01:08:32 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

November 11, 20241 hr 9 min

Building Bridges with Azeem Khan | S4E8: Regeneration Nexus

In this episode of the ReFi podcast, co-hosts interview Azeem Khan, a serial entrepreneur and leading figure in decentralized finance and crypto philanthropy. Azeem discusses his pragmatic approach to integrating traditional industry practices with the world of crypto to maximize social impact and financial sustainability. The conversation covers Azeem's career journey, including his work with Gitcoin, UNICEF, and various crypto philanthropy initiatives. Reflecting on key sustainability practices, he stresses the importance of fostering long-term partnerships and investing in community-driven projects. Azeem also shares insights on the controversial Shell deal with Gitcoin, expressing the need to balance ESG commitments with practical funding solutions. Additionally, the episode explores the current state and future of Web3, emphasizing the criticality of bridging Eastern and Western crypto cultures for broader adoption and impact. 👉 ReFi Podcast: https://twitter.com/ReFiPodcast 👉 ReFi DAO: https://twitter.com/refidaoist 👉 Azeem’s X profile: https://x.com/azeemk_ 👉 Azeem’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theazeemkhan/ 👉 Azeem’s project: https://www.morphl2.io/ 👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel 00:00 Introduction to Parallel Thinking in Crypto 02:03 Guest Introduction: Azeem Khan 02:56 Azeem's Journey into Crypto 06:22 Crypto Philanthropy and Public Goods 09:15 Challenges and Innovations in Web3 19:59 The Future of Blockchain Ecosystems 29:54 Conference Culture and Predictions for DevCon 34:09 VC Money and Crypto's Event Industry 34:26 Bridging Eastern and Western Crypto Cultures 38:46 Philanthropy in Web3: Real-World Impact 47:05 Challenges and Solutions in Crypto Philanthropy 52:57 The Shell Deal Controversy 58:06 Degen vs. Regen: A Balanced Perspective 01:03:16 Global Crypto Adoption: A Pragmatic Approach 01:07:17 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

November 4, 202444 min

dMRV Innovation for Climate Resilience with Kennedy Ng'ang'a | S4E7: Regeneration Nexus

In this episode of the ReFi Podcast, join Kennedy Ng'ang'a, founder and CEO of Shamba Network, as he shares his pioneering journey into Web3 since 2017 and how he leverages blockchain technology and satellite data to empower smallholder farmers in Africa. Kennedy delves into the mission of Shamba Network, which aims to bring ecological and climate data on-chain, addressing challenges like handling large datasets and pioneering solutions such as the ecological data oracle. The discussion explores the role of Digital Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) in ecological projects, emphasizing financial and technological hurdles and the significance of institutional collaborations. With stories from pilot projects in Kenya and successful initiatives such as the ReFi Kenya Festival, learn how Shamba Network is driving climate resilience, community engagement, and overcoming skepticism towards Web3 solutions. Discover how technology and community actions are fostering sustainable development and environmental impact across Africa. 👉 ReFi Podcast: https://twitter.com/ReFiPodcast 👉 ReFi DAO: https://twitter.com/refidaoist 👉 Shamba Website: https://shamba.network/ 👉 Kennedy's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedynganga/ 👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel 00:00 Introduction to dMRV and Digital Tools 00:26 Welcome Kennedy Ng'ang'a 01:37 Kennedy's Journey into Web3 and Climate Resilience 03:57 Founding Shamba Network 05:22 Challenges and Innovations in Climate Data 07:50 The Role of dMRV in Climate Action 10:44 Empowering Smallholder Farmers 17:59 Institutional Collaborations and Pilot Projects 22:18 Successful Project and Future Prospects 22:54 Pilot Results and Tech Stack 25:19 Community Engagement and Digital Literacy 30:05 Challenges and Criticisms of Web3 32:42 Impactful Applications of Web3 in Africa 35:45 Future of ReFi Projects in Kenya 40:01 Personal Reflections and Success Stories 42:38 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

October 28, 202453 min

Regenerative Investing with Ebru Kaya | S4E6: Regeneration Nexus

In this episode of the ReFi Podcast, the hosts sit down with Ebru Kaya, CEO of Atreyu Investments and co-founder of the Regenerative Investing Institute. Ebru shares her journey into impact and regenerative investing, highlighting the importance of creating a thriving business ecosystem, much like nurturing a flower's environment. She explores her philosophy of investing not just for impact but by focusing on how businesses achieve this through interconnections within communities and ecosystems. Ebru touches on transformative projects, particularly in education and women's health, and discusses Atreyu’s approach to treating businesses as living systems. The conversation covers the evolving landscape of regenerative finance, emphasizing more holistic and inclusive models, and concludes with Ebru's reflections on the critical role of commitment in driving meaningful change. 👉 ReFi Podcast: https://twitter.com/ReFiPodcast 👉 ReFi DAO: https://twitter.com/refidaoist 👉 Atreyu Investments Website: https://www.atreyu.global/ 👉 Regenerative Investing Institute Website: https://www.regenerativeinvestinginstitute.org/ 👉 Ebru's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebru-kaya-9741432/ 👉 Tereza's X profile: https://x.com/TerezaBizkova 👉 Maya's X: https://x.com/mayazdentzel 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of a Healthy Ecosystem 00:35 Meet Ebru Kaya: A Journey into Impact Investing 01:49 Ebru's Personal Journey and Early Career 05:57 The Birth of Regenerative Investing 06:54 Challenges and Philosophies in Impact Investing 11:21 Defining Impact vs. Regenerative Investing 21:19 Business as a Living System 27:16 The Art of Business Self-Actualization 27:40 Impact Investing: The How Matters 29:28 Healthy Planet, Healthy People, Empowered Communities 30:19 Learn Life: A Case Study in Regenerative Education 34:11 Regenerating Women’s Health 38:53 Community Engagement and Regenerative Principles 45:24 Measuring Success in Regenerative Investments 49:13 The Role of Technology in Regenerative Investing 51:13 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts