Gm! In this episode, Jack and Ian Unsworth from Kairos Research discuss Solana Mobile’s latest device, Seeker, and its potential impact on Solana’s growth. Additionally, they dive into the value proposition for Non-Bitcoin ETFs, and Trump’s upcoming DeFi project. They close out by asking - will Solana restaking be successful? Enjoy! Resources Helius Funding Announcement: https://x.com/0xMert_/status/1836578165977915858 Drift Funding Announcement: https://x.com/DriftProtocol/status/18367521366146...
Sep 21, 2024•1 hr 7 min
Gm! In this episode, MacBrennan, Co-founder of MarginFi, joined us to discuss the state of Solana DeFi, crypto founder exhaustion, and crypto’s image problem. We also asked ourselves, where are the new users? Finally, told us how MarginFi has navigated 2024, and what he is optimistic about in crypto today. Enjoy! Resources MacBrennan’s Take on Founder Exhaustion: https://x.com/macbrennan_cc/status/1824203471656194259 -- Follow MacBrennan: https://x.com/macbrennan_cc Follow Mert: https://x.com/0x...
Sep 17, 2024•54 min
Gm! In this episode, Jack and Mert discuss the state of SocialFi, the lack of bold bets in crypto, and what it means for crypto to succeed. They also dove into how Proof of Stake systems should work, and how sandwich attacks can be reduced onchain. Finally, they covered new DePIN projects coming to market. Enjoy! -- Follow Mert: https://x.com/0xMert_ Follow Jack: https://x.com/whosknave Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq Subscribe to the Lightspeed Newsletter: https://blockwo...
Sep 13, 2024•1 hr 3 min
Gm! In this episode, Dan Smith from Blockworks Research joined us to discuss L2 MEV extraction, Blockworks Research’s Solana Dashboard, and Total Economic Value on Solana! Additionally, we discussed how validators earn revenue from MEV, and supporting small validators. Finally, we unpacked Sanctum's recent LST partnerships, and speculated on whether or not NFTs will ever make a comeback. Enjoy! Resources Blockworks Research Solana Dashboard: https://solana.blockworksresearch.com/ Dan Checks the ...
Sep 10, 2024•1 hr 8 min
Gm! In this episode, we’re joined by Emon Motamedi, the Head of Solana Incubator! We discussed Solana Incubator’s selection process, the first cohort of projects, and synergies with Solana Mobile. We also dove into the stories behind Sanctum and Meme Royale! Finally, Emon gave his thoughts on evaluating startups on Solana. Enjoy! Grow your company alongside Solana Labs: https://incubator.solanalabs.com/ -- Follow Emon: https://x.com/EmonMotamedi Follow Mert: https://x.com/0xMert_ Follow Jack: ht...
Sep 05, 2024•57 min
Gm! In this episode, Jack and Mert discuss the recent arrest of Pavel Durov, and its repercussions. They also ask themselves, who does the responsibility of content moderation fall on? Additionally, they unpack the internal debate heating up within the Ethereum Community. Finally, they talk about how they view narratives, and what Solana’s next narrative might be. Enjoy! -- Follow Mert: https://x.com/0xMert_ Follow Jack: https://x.com/whosknave Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpo...
Aug 31, 2024•1 hr 7 min
Gm! In this episode, Kyle, the CEO of Hedgehog Markets, and Nigel, the CEO of BetHog, joined us to discuss a burning question: will prediction markets survive? We covered the UI improvements prediction markets have made, how these markets are useful for surveying public opinion, and solutions for resolving gray area outcomes. Additionally, we talked about Hedgehog Markets usage of Blinks for prediction markets. Finally, Kyle told us what success looks like for Hedgehog Markets. Enjoy! Resources ...
Aug 29, 2024•1 hr 11 min
Gm! In this episode, Ben Mills, the Co-founder of Meso, joined us to discuss peer-to-peer payments! We looked back on the early days of P2P payment apps, how crypto can improve upon these web2 systems, and building trust with users. Additionally, we discussed his journey from Venmo to Solana, and how Venmo was able to stand out amongst its peers. Finally, we talked about the unique challenges crypto founders face, and how mainstream adoption is a meme. Enjoy! -- Follow Ben: https://x.com/benemil...
Aug 27, 2024•1 hr 5 min
Gm! In this episode, Jack and Mert discuss how betting rebranded to prediction markets, and potential SocialFi and prediction market crossovers! They also dove into the EigenLayer airdrop controversy, and the conflicts of interest associated with it. Additionally, they asked - do we need fewer tokens? Are current crypto incentive models broken? Finally, they discussed the pros and cons of crypto payment systems. Enjoy! Resources Unpacking a potential Polymarket ‘ban’: https://blockworks.co/news/...
Aug 22, 2024•55 min
Gm! In this episode, Matthew Sigel from VanEck joined us to discuss VanEck’s Solana ETF filing, gauging customer demand for spot crypto ETFs, and an ETFs impact on the Solana network. We also dive into what Solana needs to improve on, determining the value of L1s, and bringing the NASDAQ onchain. Enjoy! Resources Recent Developments With Solana ETF 19b-4s: https://x.com/matthew_sigel/status/1825630561865715912?s=46&t=Bicxk0ccRPkhOv9SfacvBQ -- Follow Matthew: https://x.com/matthew_sigel Follo...
Aug 20, 2024•52 min
Gm! In this episode, Hardhat Chad from Ore joined us to discuss their mission to improve Proof of Work! We discuss Ore’s origin story, differences between Ore v1 vs Ore v2, and how Ore fits into the Store of Value narrative. Additionally, we dive into how Proof of Work concepts can solve the fair launch problem. Finally, Hardhat Chad gives us insight into the upcoming Ore game being developed. Enjoy! -- Follow Ore: https://x.com/OREsupply Follow Hardhat Chad: https://x.com/HardhatChad Follow Mer...
Aug 16, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Gm! In this episode, 0xInfra joined us to discuss all things Raydium! We dove into Raydium’s volume boom, how they deter pool deployment spam, and what led to their rise to the top of the Solana DEX space. Additionally, we looked back on the early days of Raydium, where they are today, and where they are heading next! Finally, discussed Pumpfun’s impact on Solana’s onchain activity. Enjoy! -- Follow Infra: https://x.com/0xINFRA Follow Mert: https://x.com/0xMert_ Follow Jack: https://x.com/whoskn...
Aug 13, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Gm! In this episode, Jack and Mert discuss the recent Solana patch, and how security issues are handled. Additionally, they dive into the decentralization of Solana’s validator set, why client diversity matters, and separating market movements from underlying fundamentals. Finally, they discuss Ore v2 and Proof of Work on Solana, and provide their thoughts on how rumors develop. Enjoy! -- Follow Mert: https://x.com/0xMert_ Follow Jack: https://x.com/whosknave Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.c...
Aug 10, 2024•53 min
We're so back! This week we invite Chris Osborn & Jon Wong to the show to discuss one of the most exciting announcements in recent weeks within crypto... Blinks. We deep dive into what are Blinks, why they're needed for the internet, attracting developers, and the roadmap for the rest of 2024 & beyond. Enjoy! -- Follow Chris: https://x.com/aliquotchris Follow Jon: https://x.com/jnwng Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Jack: https://x.com/whosknave Follow Lightspeed: https://...
Aug 05, 2024•55 min
Gm! In this episode, we explore Infinex’s mission to unlock DeFi by massively improving the onchain user experience. We discuss Kain’s crypto journey to date, the impact fees have on UX, and Infinex’s decision to integrate Solana. Finally, we cover the Craterun yield farming campaign, and how the current token meta could be broken. Enjoy! -- Follow Kain: https://x.com/kaiynne Follow Infinex: https://x.com/infinex_app Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyygu...
Jul 11, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Gm! This week we're joined by Swen Schäferjohann for a discussion on Solana's latest scaling unlock... ZK compression. We deep dive into Light protocols origin story, how does ZK compression work, L1 composability & account construct & the future of Solana's scalability. Enjoy! -- Follow Swen: https://x.com/swen_sjn Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Get 15% off an indoor or outdoor He...
Jul 03, 2024•54 min
Gm! This week we're joined by Mike Dudas & Carl Vogel of 6th Man Ventures for a discussion on the investing landscape in crypto. We deep dive into the Solana ETF application, why crypto needs more applications, the promise of AI & DePin, crypto's airdrop dilemma & much more. Enjoy! -- Follow Mike: https://x.com/mdudas Follow Carl: https://x.com/carlkvogel Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Access is the new way to support...
Jul 02, 2024•55 min
Gm! This week we invite Tristan Frizza to the show to discuss the future of onchain trading as he builds out Zeta markets. We deep dive into Zeta's token launch, why they built an L2, the path ahead for Zeta & much more. Enjoy! -- Follow Tristan: https://x.com/Tristan0x Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy -- Get 15% off an indoor or outdoor Helium Mobile Hotspot using code LIGHTSPEEDHOTSPOT: https://hellohelium.com/hotspot Helium Mobile is a new p...
Jun 27, 2024•53 min
Gm! This week we're joined by Zano Sherwani for a discussion on the future of Solana & Jito in 2024 & beyond. We deep dive into the Jito origin story, why users are being sandwiched, Firedancer's unlock & more. Enjoy! -- Follow Zano: https://x.com/segfaultdoctor Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Access is the new way to support and consume content from your favorite creators. Over...
Jun 27, 2024•51 min
Gm! This week we're back with another weekly roundup. We discuss users getting sandwiched, what's next for Solana, Airdrops & how socialFi could be one of crypto's largest opportunities. Enjoy! -- Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Access is the new way to support and consume content from your favorite creators. Over 140 subscriptions to select from, spanning from large crypto media to a l...
Jun 20, 2024•50 min
Gm! This week we invite Kyle Samani to the show for a wide ranging discussion on his current crypto thesis. We deep dive into the L1 vs L2 debate, Stablecoins & DePin as crypto's killer use cases, why Solana will ultimately flip Ethereum & so much more. Enjoy! -- Follow Kyle: https://x.com/KyleSamani Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy -- Get 15% off an indoor or outdoor Helium Mobile Hotspot using code LIGHTSPEEDHOTSPOT: https://hellohelium.c...
Jun 18, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Gm! This week we invite Garrett Harper & Stepan Simkin from Squads to the show after they raised a $10 million Series A round. We deep dive into the Squads origin story, why wallet security matters & how they want to help power Solana's on chain economy. Enjoy! -- Follow Stepan: https://x.com/SimkinStepan Follow Garrett: https://x.com/GarrettHarper_ Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy -- Join us at Permissionles III. Use code LIGHTSPEED10 for ...
Jun 12, 2024•55 min
Gm! This week we invite Austin Federa to the show for a discussion on the current state of Solana & the most exciting developments happening in crypto. We deep dive into the current state of Firedancer, how to build community within crypto & attracting developers to Solana. We then debate is economic security a meme & of course the latest meta... social tokens & meme coins. Enjoy! -- Follow Austin: https://x.com/Austin_Federa Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: h...
Jun 07, 2024•56 min
In this episode, Keone from Monad and Zon from Initia to discuss the spectrum between modular and integrated blockchain designs. They explore the tradeoffs in decentralization, performance and scalability between the two approaches. They explore AppChains, rollups, composability challenges in modular systems, EVM compatibility, and when to scale blockchains horizontally vs vertically. To close out Keone and Zon also share valuable insights on building Web3 communities organically. Thanks for tun...
Jun 05, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Gm! This week we're back with another weekly roundup. We discuss Mert's big takeaways from Consensus 2024, who's building on Solana, crypto payments & why is the latest meta celebrity coins & social tokens? Enjoy! -- Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Try 3 months FREE of Helium Mobile with the code LIGHTSPEEDMOBILE: hellohelium.com Experience a new phone service that uses the Helium N...
Jun 04, 2024•49 min
Gm! This week we welcome Tzvi Wiesel Founder & CEO of Baxus to discuss why they're building on Solana, growing a global marketplace for spirits & of course... how Baxus are bringing whiskey onchain. Enjoy! -- Follow Tzvi Wiesel: https://x.com/web4O Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Use Code: LIGHTSPEED10 for 10% off you ticket to Permissionless III: https://blockworks.co/event/permissionless-iii Get top market insights and t...
May 29, 2024•56 min
Gm! This week we welcome Brandon Millman & Donnie Dinch for a discussion on Phantom's recent acquisition & how they grew to be the largest wallet within the Solana ecosystem! Enjoy! -- Follow Brandon: https://x.com/BChillman Follow Donnie: https://x.com/donnie Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Try 3 months FREE of Helium Mobile with the code LIGHTSPEEDMOBILE: hellohelium.com Experience a new phone service that uses the Heliu...
May 23, 2024•48 min
Gm! This week we're back with another weekly roundup. We discuss the potential Ethereum ETF approval, crypto's low float problem, L1 vs L2 scaling & more. Enjoy! -- Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Try 3 months FREE of Helium Mobile with the code LIGHTSPEEDMOBILE: hellohelium.com Experience a new phone service that uses the Helium Network – a decentralized wireless network built by the p...
May 21, 2024•1 hr 3 min
Gm! This week we welcome Amir Haleem CEO of Nova Labs for a discussion on how Helium is building out DePin infrastructure to capture one of crypto's biggest opportunities. Enjoy! -- Follow Amir: https://twitter.com/amirhaleem Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/43o3Syk Subscribe on Apple: https://apple.co/3OhiXgV Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3OkF7PD Get top market insights and the latest ...
May 15, 2024•46 min
Gm! This week we're back with another weekly roundup. We discuss will Solana flip Ethereum, L1 vs L2 value accrual, Van Eck's meme coin index & the SocialFi hype. Enjoy! -- Follow Mert: https://twitter.com/0xMert_ Follow Dan: https://twitter.com/smyyguy Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq -- Try 3 months FREE of Helium Mobile with the code LIGHTSPEEDMOBILE: hellohelium.com Experience a new phone service that uses the Helium Network – a decentralized wireless network built ...
May 10, 2024•52 min
