038 - takes.
hot takes! get your hot takes here! tomorrow on the ok banger show!! (current hot take: the idea of takes needs reframing from the conventional meaning, something more collaborative and inviting instead of declaring a specific position)
The Chopping Block: DeSci Critiques, Hyperliquid's No-VC Model, and Freysa’s AI Games
Welcome to The Chopping Block – where crypto insiders Haseeb Qureshi, Tom Schmidt, Tarun Chitra, and Robert Leshner get together and give the industry insider’s perspective on crypto. This week, special guest Casey Caruso from Topology joins the crew to tackle the latest in crypto and tech. They explore the rise of AI memecoins like Freysa, blending gamified AI agents with blockchain mechanics, and the fallout from a major hack. The discussion also highlights Hyperliquid’s $1.9 billion airdrop and its no-VC funding model, signaling new trends in token launches. The crew critiques decentralized science (DeSci), questioning its accountability and funding models, with a spotlight on Pump.Science’s tokenized longevity experiments. Finally, they examine the success of Base’s incentive-light approach and the impact of frameworks like Eliza on crypto’s evolution. Tune in for a dynamic take on innovation, trends, and challenges shaping the crypto world.
Creating an Onchain Luxury Fashion Brand: 9dcc ft. gmoney
gmoney is an influencer, NFT collector, and founder of 9dcc, a pioneering crypto-based luxury brand. Before breaking into the Web 3 space, gmoney was an investor and trader. In today’s episode, we discuss: gmoney's Background (00:00:00) gmoney discusses his background in equities and his entry into the crypto space in 2017. Starting 9DCC (00:04:12) gmoney explains the inspiration behind starting 9DCC, a luxury fashion brand linked with NFTs, and his interest in merging fashion with blockchain technology. Collaboration with Adidas (00:10:26) gmoney talks about his collaboration with Adidas and how it influenced his decision to create 9dcc. Physical Stores and Community Engagement (00:17:13) gmoney shares his thoughts on physical stores and community engagement, including the concept of airdrops and their impact on the community. Global Presence vs. Local Focus (00:20:46) The discussion about the global reach of 9DCC and the comparison to a local approach, referencing the success of the streetwear brand, The Hundreds. Celebrity Influence and Adoption (00:22:31) gmoney shares insights on celebrity involvement in the crypto space and the importance of genuine passion in adoption efforts. State of the Industry (00:26:26) The discussion shifts to the current state of the industry, with a focus on mainstream adoption and the role of experiences and utility in attracting more users. Managing Risks and Financial Literacy (00:29:19) The importance of making crypto onboarding easier and empowering individuals with financial literacy and self-custody options. Banking System Risks (00:30:22) gmoney discusses the risks associated with traditional banking systems and the advantages of self-custody in crypto. Financial Education and Freedom (00:33:19) The discussion highlights the transformative power of crypto in providing financial education and freedom, as well as the broader implications for artists and collectors. Artists: Snowfro, Jack Butcher, die with the most likes. Mentioned: 9dcc, Adidas, Bradley Cooper, Chance the Rapper, FTX, FDIC insurance, Drakula, Farcaster, NFT NYC, Adam’s Bomb, Degen, Art Blocks. Until next time, - Kaloh
