Episodit
-
What does the future of finance look like built on Bitcoin? In this episode of The Index, Alex Kehaya talks with Jacob Phillips, co-founder of Lombard, a leading player in the liquid staking space. Jacob shares his unique journey from aspiring political debater to crypto entrepreneur, and how that unconventional path led him to the forefront of Bitcoin innovation.
We dive deep into the world of non-custodial protocols, focusing on Lombard's Squads protocol, which empowers businesses to operate confidently on-chain while sidestepping the limitations of traditional banking systems.
The conversation also explores Bitcoin's evolving role beyond a mere store of value, spotlighting fresh use cases and innovative opportunities for yield generation that are challenging the status quo. We examine the intersection of Bitcoin and the Solana ecosystem, focusing on groundbreaking platforms like Babylon and the potential of LBTC to unlock unprecedented flexibility for Bitcoin holders.
This is a must-listen for founders, developers, and anyone interested in the cutting-edge of Bitcoin and DeFi.
Lombard: https://www.lombard.finance/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What does the future of agentic AI look like, and how close are we to building systems that truly mimic and enhance human reasoning? In this episode of Everything Bagel, Alex Kehaya joins Bidhan Roy, founder of Bagel, to explore the cutting edge of open-source AI and its transformative potential.
The conversation unpacks the concept of agentic AI—systems capable of reasoning, planning, and executing tasks with minimal human intervention—and the revolutionary infrastructure Bagel is building to enable collaborative development of open-source foundation models. Bidhan shares insights into groundbreaking AI research, including fine-tuning techniques, adapters, and cryptographic ownership models that empower developers and communities to monetize their AI contributions.
The episode also takes an in-depth look at large language models (LLMs): Do they genuinely understand the data they process, or are they merely "stochastic parrots" mimicking human reasoning? We delve into the mysterious "black box" nature of neural networks and the concerns surrounding AI models potentially feigning alignment with human goals.
From the challenges of reasoning in neural networks to the implications of quantum computing in AI development, this episode offers a deep dive into the evolving landscape of AI and its significance for developers, researchers, and the future of innovation.
Tune in to discover how Bagel is shaping the next wave of decentralized, community-driven AI.
The future of monetizable open-source AI begins now.
Bagel: https://blog.bagel.net/
X: https://x.com/BagelOpenAIShow Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
Puuttuva jakso?
-
Can Blockchain Truly Revolutionize Telecommunications?
In this episode of The Index, Alex Kehaya chats with Coco Tang, General Manager of Helium Mobile, about how blockchain is transforming the telecom industry. From Helium’s origins as an IoT network to its ambitious leap into mobile, Coco dives into the challenges, milestones, and practical blockchain applications.
Helium Mobile stands out as the world’s first crypto carrier built on Solana, a high-performance blockchain. After migrating to Solana in April 2023, the Helium Network became faster, more affordable, and more stable. Solana now powers Helium Mobile’s token storage, demonstrating how blockchain can redefine connectivity.
As a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Helium Mobile blends its decentralized network with T-Mobile’s infrastructure. This unique model allows users to earn tokens and even offset their phone bills—a game-changer in telecom.
Tune in to hear how Helium Mobile is disrupting the telecom landscape with its community-driven approach, proving that blockchain technology can empower individuals and redefine the way we stay connected.
Helium Mobile: https://hellohelium.com/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
Have you ever considered how many frontier models could exist if open source AI was monetizable? This is the core problem that Bagel solves, and co-founder Bidhan Roy is creating a way to make open source AI monetizable. In this episode of Everything Bagel, Alex Kehaya, and Bidhan dive into this groundbreaking vision and discuss a recent blog article highlighting innovative research from the Bagel team.
Founders and developers will gain insight into a significant breakthrough in verifiable inference spearheaded by Bagel. The episode details how verification times were reduced from 200 hours to just a minute through advanced fingerprinting and watermarking technologies—a decentralized AI model management milestone.
The discussion also navigates the trade-offs between scalability and accuracy, comparing probabilistic and deterministic systems. For developers working in fields like high-frequency trading or any area reliant on precision, understanding these trade-offs is crucial.
They explore the challenges of monetizing open-source AI, the role of verifiable inference, and how Bagel is building economic incentives to empower developers. Bidhan shares insights into the open-source community's potential to rival closed AI labs and explains how Bagel is shaping the future of decentralized AI networks.
Tune in to learn how Bagel’s work transforms the open-source AI landscape and drives innovation forward.
Bagel website: https://www.bagel.net/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What is the Future of Open Source? In this episode of The Index, host Alex Kehya sits down with his business partner, Brian Fox, Co-founder of ABK Labs and the original author of the GNU Bash Shell. Brian, a pioneering figure in the open-source movement, offers valuable insights into its evolution from academic roots to its profound impact on modern technology, including the crypto and blockchain space.
Brian discusses the critical role of community and collaboration, exploring how open-source principles have driven innovation in fields like AI. He provides a unique perspective on the future of technology, discussing how AI can not only automate tasks but also empower individuals and accelerate progress.
This conversation provides a valuable framework for understanding the enduring power of open source and its potential to shape the future of our digital world. We explore how open-source culture, with its ethos of community-driven progress, has shaped projects like Solana and continues to inspire new technological advancements within the crypto and blockchain ecosystem. Drawing parallels with the evolution of Linux, we imagine a world where AI not only automates tasks but also frees us to pursue personal and global aspirations.
This episode celebrates open source as a catalyst for innovation, embodying the spirit of collaboration and the shared endeavor to build a brighter technological future.
ABK Labs: https://abklabs.com/
Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What if open-source AI Could Be Both Powerful and Profitable?
In the first episode of Everything Bagel, Alex Kehaya sits down with Bidhan Roy, Founder & CEO of Bagel, a groundbreaking AI & Cryptography Research Lab that's making open-source AI monetizable.
Bidhan discusses how Bagel's innovative AI model architecture empowers anyone to contribute to open-source AI development while ensuring fair compensation for their work. Utilizing novel cryptographic techniques, Bagel's fine-tuning technology records the evolution of open-source AI models—tracking every contribution and rewarding every creator automatically.
By leveraging cryptography, Bagel addresses the current imbalance in AI development dominated by tech giants. The company is creating a new economic framework that incentivizes collaboration and fosters a thriving, decentralized AI ecosystem.
Enjoyed the conversation? Like and subscribe for the latest insights on AI & cryptography, and join the Bagel community to be part of the open-source AI revolution!
The future of monetizable open-source AI begins now.
Bagel: https://blog.bagel.net/
X: https://x.com/BagelOpenAIShow Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What if you could move assets seamlessly across multiple chains while prioritizing security and decentralization?
This week on The Index, we join Omar Zaki, CEO of Mantis, for a deep dive into how trust-minimized transactions are reshaping blockchain interactions. This conversation explores how Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) and zero-knowledge (zk) technology are driving the future of interoperable, secure, and efficient blockchain ecosystems.
Omar walks us through the collaborative ethos driving innovation within the SVM ecosystem and the open-source development that supports it. Looking ahead, we also explore the intersection of cryptocurrency, AI, and the self-custody revolution, touching on the growing interest in meme coins like GOAT and the potential for virtual marketplaces for AI agents to flourish.
This episode highlights the potential of crypto off-ramps, such as Bridge and FuseWallet, to transform small business operations through seamless transactions and reduced fees. As we explore these advancements, we are reminded of the exciting opportunities they present for earning yield and promoting crypto adoption in everyday business practices.
Mantis: https://x.com/mantisShow Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What if your watch could predict your next illness before you even felt sick?
This week on The Index, we welcome Jeffrey Schneider, former Program Manager at the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), to discuss the future of wearable technology in defense and healthcare.
Discover how a project originally designed to detect chemical threats evolved into a critical health monitoring tool, capable of predicting illnesses days before symptoms appear. Powered by AI and machine learning, this innovation underscores the game-changing possibilities of data-driven healthcare in both military and civilian contexts.
Jeffrey highlights the role of rapid prototyping and public-private partnerships in adapting commercial technologies for military applications. He also addresses the challenges of securing sensitive health data using advanced solutions like zero-knowledge proofs and homomorphic encryption.
The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on the future of wearable technology and its implications for public health. Jeffrey’s insights illustrate how defense innovations can drive advancements in healthcare, showcasing the transformative impact of cross-sector collaboration.
Learn more about the Defense Innovation Unit: https://www.diu.mil/
Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What is the future of open-source development and AI Superintelligence? This week on The Index, we sit down with Dr. Steven Waterhouse, Founder & CEO of Nazare Ventures, to explore the challenges and opportunities within decentralized AI frameworks.
Join us as we venture into the world of AI infrastructure that’s pushing beyond traditional applications. Dr. Waterhouse will discuss the essential shift towards innovative models that move away from the typical AI tech stack, emphasizing decentralized solutions that merge cost-effectiveness with scalability.
Discover the expansive potential of open-source AI and how it mirrors the monumental shift away from proprietary systems seen during the dot-com era.
As we consider the broader consequences of AI, we examine the societal and ethical dilemmas posed by the rapid advancements in AI technologies. Tune in to gain insights from the frontier of AI innovation and decentralization, a conversation particularly relevant for developers in the open-source community.
Nazare Ventures: https://nazare.io/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What if you could access the power of Ethereum without the hassle of high fees, slow transactions, or rewriting your applications—all while leveraging Solana's blazing speed and efficiency? On this episode of The Index, we’re joined by Andrey Falaleev, CTO of Neon Labs, to explore how the Neon EVM and Solana Signature SDK are reshaping blockchain interoperability.
Andrey shares how Neon Labs enables Ethereum dApps to integrate with the Solana ecosystem. Learn how this game-changing technology lets developers embrace Solana wallets like Phantom, eliminating the need for cumbersome asset bridges and enhancing the user experience.
Listen to the episode to learn the challenges and rewards of connecting two powerful blockchain networks, and how Neon EVM acts as a seamless extension rather than just a bridge. As Ethereum grapples with high costs and scalability issues, Andrey explains why Solana’s unique advantages pave the way for a more efficient and inclusive blockchain future.
Check out Neon Labs: https://neon-labs.org/
Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What if the future of computing power wasn’t centralized but distributed across a global network? This week on The Index, we dive into the cutting-edge world of decentralized infrastructure with Kyle Okamoto, CTO of Aethir. Discover how Aethir’s revolutionary GPU cloud platform is reshaping both the AI and gaming landscapes, making enterprise-grade computing power secure, cost-effective, and accessible to innovators worldwide.
Kyle’s passion for tackling big-picture challenges shines as he unpacks Aethir’s mission to break the monopoly of traditional cloud giants. By empowering a global network of contributors, Aethir is creating more than just a service—it’s building an ecosystem where transparency, collaboration, and community involvement are the driving forces.
We explore how Aethir’s distributed model transforms tier 3 and tier 4 data centers into powerful hubs for applications like cloud gaming, AI training, and beyond—all while slashing costs and ensuring reliability. Kyle also reveals the mechanics behind Aethir’s unique rewards system, checker nodes, and how they provide security and efficiency across the network.
Also for developers, Kyle reveals Aethir’s exciting new $100-million ecosystem fund, aimed at helping builders create the next generation of groundbreaking games.Tune in and discover how Aethir is not just reshaping the future of computing but leveling the playing field for innovators worldwide.
Learn more about Aethir: https://aethir.com/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
Step into the intersection of gaming and cryptocurrency on The Index with Jacob C., the founder of HyperPlay. Ever wondered how gaming dApps are transforming financial systems for the unbanked? Jacob shares his journey from Bitcoin pioneer to Ethereum advocate, reflecting on his impactful role at MetaMask, where he helped grow the user base from 190,000 to over 30 million. Discover how decentralized applications are empowering users in regions with limited access to traditional banking, marking a new era in finance and gaming.
Imagine running your favorite Windows games seamlessly on Mac, Linux, or SteamOS—that’s just the beginning of HyperPlay’s revolutionary approach. Jacob discusses the platform’s commitment to developer autonomy and open-source principles, standing apart from giants like Steam and Apple. This isn’t just gaming; it’s a movement toward decentralization and freedom. HyperPlay is creating a sustainable ecosystem by minimizing intermediaries, giving developers unmatched control over their creations and business models.
With ambitious plans to reshape the gaming industry, HyperPlay’s questing features and wallet integration promise to transform user engagement. Picture an app store where tokens and quests drive interaction, turning gaming on its head. Jacob unveils plans to expand into NFT marketplaces and portfolio management tools, bridging traditional and blockchain gaming to build a decentralized ecosystem that empowers players and developers alike.
Learn more HyperPlay: https://www.hyperplay.xyz/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
How is blockchain transforming financial access? In this episode of The Index, we sit down with Rennick Palley, Founding Partner at Stratos, a leading investment firm.
We examine the current state of blockchain technology, exploring the psychological barriers and market volatility that shape its future. Rennick provides a firsthand look at the complexities of cross-chain transactions, highlighting how platforms like Solana deliver a smoother, faster alternative to traditional banking. We also discuss tools like Portal, which streamline blockchain’s intricate processes, making the technology more secure and accessible for users.
Through a comparison of Ethereum and Solana, this episode reveals why Solana’s user-centered, open-source ecosystem is gaining traction—and why prioritizing user-friendly products is crucial for blockchain’s ongoing growth. A must-listen for anyone curious about the latest shifts in crypto and blockchain’s impact on global financial access.
Stratos: https://www.stratos.xyz/about
Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What does it take to make financial tools truly accessible worldwide? Jackie Bona, CEO of Valora, joins The Index to share her inspiring journey from aspiring UN diplomat to a leader in the crypto space. In this episode, Jackie reveals how her Filipino-American heritage and time at Google shaped her mission to drive global impact through crypto.
Explore how she’s leading Valora to simplify complex technologies for a global audience, especially in emerging markets, and discover the power of stablecoins in regions with devaluing currencies like Nigeria and Argentina. Learn how Valora provides users with USD-denominated stablecoins, offering stability and growth opportunities through DEFI, while balancing user experience with security in self-custodial wallets.
Jackie also shares her approach to launching digital services in diverse markets and the importance of understanding local needs and regulatory conditions. Her journey underscores the potential of inclusive leadership and diverse voices to drive innovation and growth in the crypto space.
Learn more about Valora - https://valora.xyz
Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What is the future of Solana Virtual Machines? In this episode of The Index, SOON Co-founder & CEO Joanna Zeng and Head of Developer Relations Nazreen M. share their entrepreneurial journey and their vision for Web3.
The Solana Optimistic Network (SOON) is revolutionizing blockchain and DeFi with a decentralized platform focused on scalability, security, and interoperability. By offering tools and infrastructure to build a decoupled SVM stack, SOON enhances transaction efficiency for Web3 applications.
Learn how SOON achieved rapid growth, opted for angel investors over traditional VC funding, and launched a DevNet within six months. Joanna and Nazreen also discuss their dedication to sustainable, impactful solutions and their partnership with ABK Labs to power the next wave of decentralized applications. This episode is rich with insights into vision, strategy, and the future of Web3. Tune in to learn more!
Learn more about Soon: https://soo.network/
X: https://x.com/soon_svmShow Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What does it take to build the future of decentralized technologies? In this special episode of Everything SVM on The Index, recorded live at Solana Breakpoint 2024, Alex Kehaya and Omar Zaki dive into the world of building on the Solana ecosystem. Joined by blockchain pioneers Vijay Chetty, CEO of Eclipse Labs, and Joanna Zeng, CEO of Soon, they discuss the transformative role of open-source software in shaping decentralized technologies.
This episode explores strategic integrations and innovations like SVM L2s and roll-up stacks that are redefining the blockchain landscape. Discover the ethos of open-source culture—rooted in transparency, community-driven progress, and the guiding principles set forth by the Solona co-founders.
Learn how production engineering and pioneering research work together to drive blockchain infrastructure toward a future of universal self-custody and scalability. The episode also examines horizontal vs. vertical scaling, the disruptive potential of the decoupled SVM model, and its impact on niche areas like decentralized AI and gaming.
Whether you’re a blockchain enthusiast or simply curious about decentralized systems, join this insightful discussion where community collaboration is the key to Web3’s future.
ABK Labs: https://abklabs.com/
Mantis: https://www.mantis.app/
Eclipse Labs: https://www.eclipse.xyz/
Soon: https://soo.network/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What is the future of Web3 gaming? Join Alex Kehaya on The Index Podcast as he chats with Tyson Loney, COO of Helika, a leading Web3 gaming and NFT analytics platform.
In this episode, we explore Helika's role in Web3 gaming, providing analytics to help developers optimize player behavior and performance across blockchain games. Tyson shares how Helika's tools simplify multi-chain support, enabling studios to create data-driven experiences.
We also dive into standout titles like Proof of Play and Parallel, discussing how decentralized ownership is reshaping gaming by allowing players to own and monetize in-game assets. Tyson offers insights on the future of gaming, NFTs, and overcoming startup challenges.
Website: https://www.helika.io/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What’s the future of real estate investment? This week on The Index, host Alex Kehaya joins Darren Carvalho, co-CEO of MetaWealth, to explore how blockchain—specifically Solana—is reshaping the industry. With his background at Toronto Dominion Bank and Goldman Sachs, Darren shares how MetaWealth is using Solana’s fast, low-cost, and scalable blockchain to offer everyday investors fractional property ownership.
Discover how Solana’s high-performance blockchain enables lightning-fast transactions, minimal fees, and robust security, opening the door for global investors to access real estate markets previously out of reach. Learn how tokenization is transforming the industry by cutting out intermediaries, reducing costs, and making real estate investments more accessible. Plus, get the inside scoop on MetaWealth’s European expansion and the upcoming launch of the AUM token. Perfect for investors looking to diversify through cutting-edge, tokenized assets.
Learn about MetaWealth.
Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What does it take to build a million-strong community with just a four-person team? In this special episode of The Index, featuring the recent live stream interview on Everything SVM, host Alex Kehaya joins Jack Levin, CEO of XEN, to explore the story behind XEN Crypto—a community-driven project designed to educate others about the power of economic freedom and the potential of the XEN token. Rooted in the first principles laid out by Satoshi Nakamoto’s Bitcoin Whitepaper, XEN aims to redefine self-custody, transparency, and decentralization.
Jack shares how X1 is revolutionizing blockchain technology by integrating a hybrid Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS) model. We break down how this unique approach combines the best of both systems, offering unparalleled decentralization, security, and scalability, setting it apart from platforms like Solana, Ethereum, and Bitcoin. Learn about XEN’s mission to empower individuals to mint their tokens, contribute to a collaborative ecosystem, and participate in shaping a future where open-source innovation drives the blockchain industry forward.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on building value from the ground up and the impact of community-led development on the crypto space.
Check out XEN: https://www.xencrypto.io/Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube -
What does it take to build the next generation of DeFi on Solana? In this special episode of the Solana Startup Series, we sit down with Tristan Frizza, Founder of Zeta Markets, to explore the future of crypto trading. Tristan shares his journey from AI to blockchain, participating in Solana’s early hackathons, and the inspiration behind creating Zeta Markets—one of DeFi’s most compelling exchanges.
Tristan takes us through the ins and outs of perpetual futures trading and explains why these instruments are game-changers for traders seeking flexible, non-expiring positions. However, this flexibility comes with risks, especially with high leverage. Tristan provides insights into how volatility can be an advantage, maximizing exchange profitability and offering a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind crypto revenue models.
We also dive into the technical complexities of building on Solana, one of the fastest-growing ecosystems in crypto. Tristan discusses the necessity of Layer 2 solutions to address network congestion and cost management and breaks down advanced concepts like optimistic roll-ups and ZK bridges.
Tune in to learn how Zeta Markets plans to overcome these challenges and build a comprehensive, builder-friendly ecosystem for the next wave of DeFi innovation on Solana.
Zeta Markets: https://www.zeta.markets/
Show Links
The Index
X Channel
YouTube - Näytä enemmän
