Shane Mac, founder of XMTP, joins Kris to explore how the largest decentralized messaging protocol is reshaping online communication. From testnet launches and encryption standards to AI, agents, and global privacy, Shane shares why messaging is the next frontier for Web3 and how open protocols are unlocking a wave of innovation for developers.

0:24 – What’s exciting at XMTP right now
1:15 – Why decentralization matters more than ever
2:20 – How XMTP handles regulation & backdoor demands
4:15 – Encryption vs ownership: who holds the key
5:50 – How apps built on XMTP can work with local laws
7:12 – Unique use cases emerging from XMTP
8:43 – Messaging meets global money
10:28 – Why messaging has been closed for 15 years
11:40 – The shift: from group chats to messaging economies
13:00 – UX breakthrough: passkeys, privacy & identity
14:30 – The moment builders have been waiting for

🔗 Connect with Shane / XMTP
Website: https://xmtp.org
Twitter/X: https://x.com/shanemac

🎙️ Connect with Kris
Warpcast: https://warpcast.com/thekris
LinkedIn: / thekrispartner

💼 For sponsorships and collaborations:
Email: pod@optimism.show

DISCLAIMER
This episode does not constitute financial advice. Web3, DAOs, and decentralized tools carry risk. Always do your own research (DYOR).