TPB76 - What is Bitcoin? with Ben de Waal

TPB76 - What is Bitcoin? with Ben de Waal

Author: Bitcoin is for Everyone February 27, 2024 Duration: 1:37:07

"Bitcoin is money, but specifically Bitcoin is a form of money that isn't controlled by any kind of centralized entity." - Ben

My guest today is Ben de Waal. Ben is an engineer, technologist, and Bitcoin consultant, having previously led various engineering projects including as Vice President of Engineering at Swan. Ben also advocates for decentralized solutions and is always interested in discussing philosophy and human affairs through his lens as a libertarian socialist/anarchist.

As we anticipate further price action and interest in Bitcoin, Ben was the perfect guest to have on to discuss Bitcoin fundamentals for those that wonder, what is Bitcoin anyway? In this episode we cover how Bitcoin works as decentralized digital money without centralized control. Topics covered include Bitcoin mining, transactions, fees, private keys, seed phrases, the Lightning Network, differences between proof of work vs proof of stake, why Bitcoin has value, and more.

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The Team: Producer/Editor: @DamienSomerset | Branding/Art: @Daniel | Website: @EvanPrim



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit progressivebitcoiner.substack.com

There’s a common story told about Bitcoin, one focused on speculation and a certain type of enthusiast. The Progressive Bitcoiner exists to tell the rest of the story. This podcast moves past the headlines to explore how this technology is being used in tangible, human ways around the world. You’ll hear from organizers, developers, and everyday people who are applying Bitcoin as a practical tool for financial inclusion and personal autonomy. Each conversation focuses on real-world impact, whether that’s supporting human rights work, providing an economic lifeline in unstable regions, or simply offering a new way to think about value and community. Hosted by Bitcoin is for Everyone, the discussions are grounded in education and firsthand narratives, linking the technical foundations to broader cultural and societal shifts. The aim isn’t to hype an asset, but to document a movement. Tune in for a perspective that is often missing from the mainstream conversation-one that finds the progressive potential within a protocol and amplifies the voices already building a more accessible future with it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Progressive Bitcoiner
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