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Bell Curve

Blockworksblockworks.co
Bell Curve breaks down the most important themes in crypto for people who, like us, are confined to the middle of the bell curve. Each season explores a different thesis that we'll test and refine through debate with crypto's best. If you're a crypto native, degen or investooor, this podcast is for you. Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3R1D1D9 Subscribe on Apple: https://apple.co/3pQTfmD Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3cpKZXH Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/ Join the Bell Curve Telegram group: https://t.me/+nzyxAvQ0Xxc3YTEx
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Episodes

Delta: Breaking Tradeoffs in Blockchain Architectures | Myles O’Neil & Ole Spjeldnæs

In this episode, Ole Spjeldnæs and Myles O’Neil from Delta joined us to discuss the vision behind Delta’s design, Delta’s state model, and ZK settlement and State Diff Lists. They also dive into how Delta’s leaderless consensus functions. Finally, Ole and Myles gave their thoughts on token value accrual, token supply dynamics, and governance. Thanks for tuning in! -- Index Coop's Leverage Suite provides streamlined access to leverage, with built-in liquidation protection and low fees. Non-US use...

Oct 22, 20241 hr 17 min

Deep Dive: Token Design | Guy Young & Kain Warwick

In this episode, Guy Young, Founder of Ethena Labs, and Kain Warwick, Founder of Infinex, joined us to discuss token design! Are tokens the product? When does it make sense to return capital to holders? Is regulatory scrutiny keeping founders out of the US? They answered all of these questions, and also dove into topics such as utility tokens vs pure plays, methods of returning value to holders, BNB’s token design, and the impact regulations have on token design. Finally, they closed out the epi...

Oct 15, 20241 hr 26 min

Unichain’s Launch, Election Season’s Influence on Crypto, and Unveiling Satoshi’s Identity | Roundup

In this episode, Michael Anderson joined us at Permissionless to discuss the launch of Unichain, UNI token value accrual, the app to general purpose chain cycle, and Unichain’s impact on the Uniswap protocol. Additionally, they unpack the US presidential race's impact on the crypto markets. Finally, they dive into the recent claims made about the true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Uniswap Announces Unichain: https://x.com/Uniswap/status/1844363396382408774 -- L...

Oct 12, 202442 min

L1 & L2 Token Value Capture | Jon Charbonneau

In this episode, we’re joined by Jon Charbonneau, Co-Founder of DBA to discuss L1 & L2 token value capture! We discussed measuring profitability of tokens, PoS vs PoW value accrual, and whether or not issuance is a cost. Additionally, we unpacked the economics of L2s, and compared them to L1 economics. Finally, we asked ourselves - can anything flip BTC as money? Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources L1 & L2 Token Value Capture: https://dba.xyz/l1-l2-token-value-capture/ Uncommon Core 2.0 -...

Oct 09, 20242 hr 10 min

The Continued Institutional Adoption of Crypto | Roundup

In this episode, Mippo, Vance, and Michael discuss their reactions to the US Vice Presidential debate, and their views on meaningful crypto legislation. Additionally, they dive into the advancements in the crypto lending markets. They also unpack the current state of vesting schedules in crypto. Finally, they give their thoughts on the potential impact of Visa’s recently announced tokenized asset platform, and the continued institutional adoption of crypto. Thanks for tuning in! -- L2s and L3s a...

Oct 05, 202454 min

Sky Aave Force and the DeFi Renaissance | Stani Kulechov & Rune Christensen

In this episode, DeFi legends Stani Kulechov and Rune Christensen joined us to discuss the growth of DeFi! We discussed Sky Aave Force, DeFi’s convergence on product offerings, and the impact of brand and culture in DeFi. Additionally, we dove into the growing institutional interest in crypto. Finally, we concluded the interview with Stani and Rune’s thoughts on the “DeFi Renaissance”. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Read More About Sky Aave Force: https://x.com/SkyEcosystem/status/1830788183...

Oct 02, 20241 hr 16 min

What's Next For Crypto After the Fed Rate Cut? | Roundup

In this episode, Mippo, Michael, and Vance discuss sentiment at Token2049 and Solana Breakpoint, the total addressable market of memecoins, and bullish shifts in the market. They also discuss what impact the US election will have on the crypto markets, and the industry as a whole. Finally, they closed the episode by diving into the impact AI is having on the B2B SaaS business model. Thanks for tuning in! -- L2s and L3s are history. Supra Containers give you dedicated, customizable AppSpace on Su...

Sep 28, 20241 hr 9 min

How Bitcoin Prepared Us for the Memecoin Era | Murad Mahmudov

In this episode, Murad Mahmudov joined us to bridge the gap between Bitcoin maximalism and memecoins! We dove into the exponential growth of altcoin bubbles, parallels between NFTs and Memecoins, and finding cult-like communities. Additionally, we asked ourselves: how important is revenue? Is Bitcoin a memecoin? Can older altcoins ever come back? Finally, we unpacked the four year crypto cycle. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Murad Mahmudov: The Ultimate Bitcoin Argument: https://podcasts.app...

Sep 25, 20241 hr 12 min

Navigating the Expanding Rollup Landscape | Roundup

In this episode, Mike and Myles discuss Solana’s new mobile phone, Seeker, and the impact it might have on crypto adoption. Additionally, they dove into the L2 landscape today, and asked themselves - when do gas costs stop being a differentiator? What are the most important aspects to consider when building an L2? Finally, they closed the episode with commentary on the rapidly growing number of L2s on the market. Thanks for tuning in! -- Namada is the shielded asset hub rewarding you to protect ...

Sep 20, 20241 hr 8 min

Rethinking Ethereum's Block Building: CommitBoost & Pre-Confirmations | Drew Van der Werff

In this episode, we dive deep into the future of Ethereum's infrastructure with Drew from CommitBoost. We unpack how CommitBoost aims to change Ethereum's block building process, potentially solving long-standing issues of censorship resistance and transaction efficiency. We unpack the concepts of inclusion lists and pre-confirmations, and how they could transform crypto. Thanks for tuning in! -- Follow Drew: https://x.com/drewvdw Follow Rex: https://x.com/LogarithmicRex Follow nosleepjon: https...

Sep 18, 20241 hr 4 min

Atlas: Combining TradFi Performance With DeFi Transparency | Eugene & Frankie

In this episode, we’re joined by Frankie from Paradigm, and Eugene from Ellipsis Labs! We discussed the launch of the Atlas L2 private testnet, why Atlas is utilizing the SVM to build an Ethereum L2, and design decisions made along the way. Additionally, we dove into Atlas’ approach to handling MEV. Finally, we covered what the Atlas application set needs to contain on mainnet launch, and first party vs third party apps Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Atlas Announcement Thread: https://x.com/...

Sep 12, 20241 hr 10 min

Are L2s Parasitic? | Roundup

In this episode, Mike and Myles opened with discussion on crypto’s meme culture, and Near’s recent marketing stunt. They then moved on to one of our industries hottest topics: the L1 value accrual debate. Is a rollup centric roadmap good, or bad, for Ethereum? How should we think about value capture? Additionally, they wondered, how valuable is interoperability? Finally, they closed by diving into community formation around decentralized networks. Thanks for tuning in! -- Namada is the shielded ...

Sep 06, 20241 hr 14 min

Finding Consumer Gems in Crypto | Qiao & Imran

In this episode, Qiao and Imran from AllianceDAO joined us to discuss infrastructure exhaustion in crypto, the Fat App Thesis, and the cultural differences between blockchains. Additionally, we asked ourselves, is there a long term bull case for L1s? Where are the consumer app builders? Finally, we unpacked how TikTok has intersected with crypto, and how crypto can potentially solve the failing business model of traditional media. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Mason Nystrom - The Fat App Th...

Sep 03, 20241 hr 14 min

Why Crypto Founders Are Leaving the West | Roundup

In this episode, we discuss the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov and its potential impact on the TON blockchain. We then explore the SEC's lawsuit against OpenSea and its implications for NFTs as securities. The conversation shifts to the broader regulatory landscape for crypto in the US and globally. Finally, we touch on the current state of the NFT market and its future performance. Thanks for tuning in! - - Namada is the shielded asset hub rewarding you to protect the multichain. Enabli...

Aug 31, 202452 min

The Fed’s Big Decision | Roundup

In this episode, the Roundup Crew discusses the current sentiment among market participants, and how seasonality impacts the markets. Additionally, they covered the Fed’s upcoming Jackson Hole symposium, rate cuts and job number revisions, and Kamala Harris’ potential capital gains tax policies. Finally, they took a look at Tron’s recent success and asked themselves, are centralized chains better at acquiring users? Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources 2xDog Chart on Bitcoin Seasonality: https://x...

Aug 24, 20241 hr 1 min

Sreeram Speaks on the EigenLayer Airdrop Saga

In this episode, Mike and Jason are joined by Sreeram Kannan, the Founder of EigenLayer to discuss the recent Eigen Labs airdrop controversy, why Eigen Labs was not upfront about this list, and what changes they are making internally. Additionally, they dive into EigenLayer’s close relationship with the Ethereum Foundation, avoiding conflicts of interest within the industry, and the need for more disclosures in crypto. Finally, they take a look at how permissionless tokens will impact AVS securi...

Aug 22, 20241 hr 7 min

Who Is Bharat Ramamurti? | Alex Thorn & Nic Carter

In this episode, Alex Thorn from Galaxy Research, and Nic Carter from Castle Island Ventures joined us to discuss Operation Choke Point 2.0! We covered who’s involved in Operation Choke Point 2.0, Bharat Ramamurti’s influence on crypto policy in the United States, and how policy will vary between a Harris presidency and a Trump presidency. Additionally, we dove into the effectiveness of Operation Choke Point 2.0, and how we can advocate for our industry. Finally, we talked about the impact elect...

Aug 20, 20241 hr

The Conflicts of Interest in Crypto | Roundup

In this episode, we’re joined by Jim Parillo from Figment Capital! This week we discuss the success of prediction markets, conflicts of interest in crypto today, and the importance of self policing our industry. Additionally, we question how transparent crypto really is compared to traditional finance. Finally, we dive into the way advisory roles have mutated in crypto, and the pains that come along with rapid growth. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources EigenLayer’s Response to the Coindesk Artic...

Aug 16, 20241 hr 11 min

Aavenomics: Making DeFi Great Again | Marc Zeller

In this episode, Marc Zeller, the founder of Aave-Chan Initiative, joined us to discuss Aave and the state of DeFi today! We dive into Aave’s Umbrella safety module, competition between DeFi protocols, and concerns around WBTC. Additionally, Marc gives his thoughts on revenue distribution models in DeFi, the Minimum Viable Issuance debate, and whether or not DeFi is propping up Ethereum. Finally, we address the speculation around Aave potentially deploying on Solana. Thanks for tuning in! -- Res...

Aug 13, 20241 hr 32 min

Are L1s Converging on the Same Design? | Roundup

In this episode, Mike explores the most relevant topics in crypto today. He dives into Kamala Harris’ cabinet, Ripple’s settlement with the SEC, and Ethereum ETF flows to date. Additionally, he speculates on who might be the next SEC Chair after Gary Gensler. Finally, he closes with coverage of the internal debate happening within the Ethereum community and gives his take on whether or not opportunities in crypto are drying up. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Behind the Curtain: The Harris Ca...

Aug 09, 202446 min

Restaking’s Impact on the Future of Crypto | Season 8 Recap

In this episode, we recap all of the themes and topics from Season 8: Restaking’s Renaissance. We compare the sentiment around restaking between the start of the season to now, discuss the various use cases around restaking, and give our thoughts on pre confirmations. Additionally, we take a look at StakeSure, and the restaking customer base. Finally, we think about what the future has in store for the restaking market. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources StakeSure & EigenLayer: Strong crypto...

Aug 06, 20241 hr 4 min

Can Crypto Survive a Recession? | Roundup

In this episode, the Roundup crew and Myles O’Neil are diving into the hot topics from a volatile week in the markets. They discuss the recent Compound Finance governance attack, the first week of Ethereum ETF trading, and how teams should handle token unlocks. Additionally, they ask if crypto is now a bipartisan issue, and what governance tokens should be classified as. Finally, they speculate on whether or not we are entering a recession. Thanks for tuning in! -- Sei Labs believes the EVM is h...

Aug 03, 20241 hr 2 min

How Jito is Unlocking Restaking for Solana | S8 Finale | Lucas Bruder

In this episode, Lucas Bruder from Jito discusses their newly launched restaking platform for Solana. The conversation covers the history of Jito's products, the design choices behind their restaking solution, and how it differs from Ethereum-based platforms like Eigen Layer. Lucas explains the flexibility of Jito's approach, allowing for various assets including governance tokens, and discusses potential use cases such as oracles and keepers. The episode also explores the broader implications f...

Jul 30, 20241 hr 20 min

Is Crypto Ready for the Big Leagues? | Roundup

In this episode, the Roundup crew discusses Ethereum ETF flows, the Jito restaking announcement and its impact on the Solana Ecosystem, and the recent AAVEnomics update proposal. Additionally, they speculate on when the Fed will finally cut rates, and what Trump might say during his Bitcoin Conference speech. Finally, they dive into what crypto policy might look like during a Harris presidency. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources The DAO Run Lemonade Stand: https://x.com/josephdelong/status/15403...

Jul 27, 202451 min

The Bear Case for Shared Security | S8 E8 | Sunny & Toghrul

In this episode, Sunny, the Co-founder of Osmosis, and Toghrul from Scroll joined us to present the bear case for shared security. We discussed issues with Proof of Stake, the relationship between slashing and enshrining an LST, and the market size for restaking. Finally, we provide our thoughts on the intersubjective work token, and staking’s potential impact on the L1. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Shared Security is a Psyop Speech: https://youtu.be/hdEEl3ixlfo?si=qkk89BaV6Q2krewQ -- Nama...

Jul 23, 20241 hr 22 min

Deep Dive: The CAKE Framework & Building a One Click Experience | Hart Lambur & Stephane Gosselin

In this special episode of Bell Curve, Stephane Gosselin and Hart Lambur joined us live at EthCC to discuss OneBalance and the CAKE Framework! Additionally, we dive into the economics of the solver layer, what effects an HFT dynamic arising in crypto would have, and UX in a OneBalance world. Finally, we speculate on how OneBalance will impact L2 business models. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resource CAKE Framework Breakdown: https://x.com/0xASK/status/1813217270010609990 -- Sei Labs believes the EVM...

Jul 22, 20241 hr 18 min

A New Era: Trump’s Impact on Crypto and Innovation in the U.S.

In this episode, the Roundup crew covers a wild week in crypto and politics. They discuss the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, and how economic policy might look with JD Vance as the Vice President. Additionally, they speculate on whether or not Biden will drop out of the presidential race, and talk about the Fed’s approach to monetary policy leading up to the election. Finally, they wonder where we are in the AI hype cycle, and who benefits the most from L2 innovation. Thanks for tuning i...

Jul 19, 20241 hr 14 min

EthCC Campside Chat: Protocols, Ecosystems, Community & Tokens | Vitalik Buterin & Christopher Goes

In this special episode, Vitalik Buterin and Christopher Goes joined us live from the Intents Discussions conference during EthCC 2024! Key highlights from this campside chat include: Vitalik’s reflections on crypto’s journey thus far and his insights on Ethereum’s inception, unbundling blockchain components, and competing with centralized protocols. The interview concludes with thoughts on social consensus, and the importance of learning from past failures to better navigate future developments...

Jul 16, 20241 hr 8 min

A Fresh Take on Shared Security | S8 E7 | Misha Putiatin

In this episode, Misha, CEO and Co-founder of Symbiotic, delves into the history and evolution of shared security. He discusses shared security’s various implementations over the years, and highlights Symbiotic's vision for the future. The conversation also touches on Symbiotic’s protocol design choices, offering a fresh perspective on shared security's potential to streamline and secure emerging networks. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Ethena + Symbiotic: https://blog.symbiotic.fi/ethena-sy...

Jul 09, 20241 hr 20 min

A New Era for U.S. Regulations | Roundup

In this episode, the Roundup crew discusses the aftermath of the Presidential Debate, and a Trump victory’s potential impact on the markets. Additionally, they dive into what the Chevron Doctrine was, and what the implications of its overruling are. Finally, they provide their views on current sentiment within the crypto markets, and how fresh capital is finding its way into crypto. Thanks for tuning in! -- Sei Labs believes the EVM is here to stay. By providing the fastest time to finality of a...

Jul 05, 20241 hr 8 min
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