The Brave Technologist

Ken Liu (Computer Science PhD at the Stanford AI Lab) and Erik Chi (CS PhD at UMich) are the Creators of the Open Anonymity Project, which lets people prove things about themselves online without revealing their identity. In this episode we explore what it means for AI systems to "know" you; why today's so-called privacy modes fall short; and how the next generation of AI systems could be built with privacy as a default, rather than an afterthought. Key Takeaways: What "unlinkable inference" means and why it changes the privacy model of AI chat tools What actually happens to your data the moment you hit "send" in a typical AI system Why incognito mode in AI tools is largely a UI illusion, rather than a real privacy protection The role of metadata in identifying and profiling users, and how "secretary models" could enable personalization without sacrificing privacy How anti-censorship and privacy intersect in a future dominated by agentic AI systems Why now is the time to rethink assumptions about privacy in…

Ed Gaudet, CEO and founder of Censinet, shares how cybersecurity threats have evolved from data breaches to full-scale operational disruptions, and why modern resilience strategies must go beyond prevention. He explains why ransomware has fundamentally changed the stakes, how AI is rapidly expanding the attack surface, and what organizations are getting wrong about risk. He also highlights the human and cultural factors that remain the weakest link in security and why leadership is critical to driving real change. Key Takeaways How ransomware has raised the stakes from financial loss to real-world consequences, including risks to human life The overlooked ways AI is entering organizations through existing tools, and how this is creating new vulnerabilities Why organizations must shift from prevention-only strategies to prioritizing response and recovery capabilities How human behavior and organizational culture continue to be the biggest risk factors in cybersecurity What a modern, holistic resilience…

Jourdan Hathaway, Chief Business Officer at General Assembly, discusses her experience integrating AI agents into her admissions team, including stories of real-world complexities, edge cases, and unexpected messiness of the implementation. We also explore the evolving AI skills gap and how companies have now shifted from expecting basic AI literacy to prioritizing skills like AI workflow design, critical thinking, and the ability to build AI-driven business solutions. Key Takeaways: Which new human roles are emerging around AI optimization and oversight, even as repetitive tasks are automated How human strengths like judgment and ambiguity navigation remain critical as AI takes over first drafts, pattern recognition, and execution speed What implementing AI agents actually looks like in practice, and why edge cases and human psychology matter more than expected The evolving role of mentorship and how being specific, proactive, and action-oriented makes people far more likely to invest in your growth Guest…

Andy Maskin, Director of AI Creative Technology at Publicis Sapient, explains why brands are shifting from SEO to "AI visibility," where success is no longer about ranking on search engines but instead showing up in tools like ChatGPT. He also explains how agentic AI fails without clean data and modernized systems. How MCP (Model Context Protocol) enables AI agents to communicate and coordinate tasks using natural language across systems Why the most transformative AI use cases won't come from prototypes, and how technical debt is a hidden blocker Ways AI is pushing companies to rethink customer experience, such as eliminating friction from chatbots Examples of AI transformation features from companies layering agentic systems on top of legacy infrastructure and unclean data Guest Bio: Andy Maskin is Director of AI Creative Technology at Publicis Sapient. He's a Generative AI SME in both theory and practice, with a current focus on agentic marketing applications. Across his career he's focused on the way…

Dr. Maha Hosain Aziz, an international relations professor at NYU and Global Foresight Advisor at the World Economic Forum, highlights the often-overlooked societal, economic, and psychological impacts of AI adoption. She explores the growing anxiety around job displacement and the emerging "occupational identity crisis" occurring as AI reshapes industries and how people define purpose and stability in their careers. She also reveals how shifts in world order, the rise of tech companies as powerful global actors, and increasing mental health concerns are all interconnected in the age of AI. Key Takeaways: Mental health challenges linked to AI-driven uncertainty The Rising reliance on AI for emotional support How global power dynamics are shifting as BigTech gains influence The "occupational identity crisis" as AI reshapes our relationship with work Guest Bio: Dr Maha Hosain Aziz has crafted a portfolio career in global risk and future trends based at NYU's MA International Relations Program: She is a…

Or Eshed, co-founder and CEO of LayerX Security, shares why the browser has become the most critical (and overlooked) security layer in modern work. He explains key browser risk areas including phishing, cookie theft, compromised extensions, and data exfiltration, and how AI now increases the urgency around these risks. He also provides examples of real-world breaches that are reshaping how organizations think about risk. Key Takeaways: Security risks that are unique to the browser along with simple habits you can adopt to reduce browser-based risk How extensions like Grammarly use browser APIs to learn from user interaction behind the scenes Why most existing security tools fail to detect browser-based threats and the rising costs of account takeovers How AI-powered copilots could ultimately become a key defensive layer by reducing human error in real time Guest Bio: Or Eshed is co-founder and CEO of LayerX Security. Or has over 15 years of cybersecurity experience as an ML developer, security and…

Joseph Ng, Chief Strategy Officer of GeneGenius and author of The Hybrid Mind, discusses how institutions must redesign decision architectures as humans and intelligent machines operate together. His vision for the "hybrid mind" is one with supervised intelligence where humans set mission, values, and boundaries while AI participates in operational decisions. He also discusses his work at GeneGenius to transform raw genetic data into "biological intelligence" that can support precision medicine, early disease detection, and personalized treatments. Key Takeaways: His work in AI-driven genomics systems and data for early detection and better prediction in medical systems How governance—when designed correctly—can accelerate adoption rather than slowing innovation Why the biggest risk in AI isn't technical failure, but a lack of institutional readiness to govern it How human judgment is evolving in an AI-driven world, shifting from execution to supervision and interpretation Guest Bio: Joseph X Ng is a…

Anna Yuan, founder of Perena and former head of stablecoins at the Solana Foundation, discusses how Perena is designing new on-chain financial products, including USD*, a liquid yield token that earns continuously while remaining spendable. We also explore why trust remains one of crypto's biggest challenges, how decentralized and traditional finance are converging, and what role AI agents may play in the future of payments and financial automation. Key Takeaways: How Perena's USD* token allows users to earn continuous yield while still being able to spend their assets Why stablecoins could become a foundational layer for global financial coordination and programmable money Why people still don't trust blockchain, and what Web3 companies should do about it Why many financial services beyond payments remain largely untapped opportunities in crypto How agents and stablecoins will interact over time Guest Bio: Anna Yuan is the founder of Perena, a stablecoin fintech and asset manager. Perena's team embraces AI…

Elise Neel, Global Head of Strategy & Strategic Partnerships at Panasonic Go, shares lessons from leading innovation within large legacy companies and the cultural challenges of driving transformation. She explains how organizations should rethink AI governance and talent, and why roles like the CHRO may become central in the AI era. Key Takeaways: Why leaders must move from simply using AI tools to actively collaborating with them to drive meaningful transformation How access to AI is leveling the playing field, making critical thinking the key differentiator for talent Ways that non-technical professionals can quickly become powerful contributors with the right AI tools and training Why the CHRO role may become one of the most influential positions as organizations integrate AI agents into their workforce How AI could transform product ownership and customer support through intelligent systems that predict maintenance, optimize usage, and improve the overall customer experience Guest Bio: Elise Neel is the…

Bri Teresi, host of 'Free The Money' and a prominent crypto influencer, shares the biggest misunderstandings about cryptocurrency in mainstream media and consumer behavior, along with the biggest challenges faced by content creators today. Topics include: the risks of platform dependency and censorship; the importance of self-custody and owning one's own crypto keys; financial sovereignty and freedom from banks; and the need for better education in crypto to reduce scams and speculative investments. Key Takeaways: Emerging laws in California, and how they'll affect crypto asset custody Why we can't have a free society without cash and distributed systems The role of privacy coins and privacy tech in empowering users Creator horror stories: shadow banning, censorship, and deleted accounts How AI is transforming content creation, and the risks involved Gender dynamics and increasing female participation in crypto The potential of decentralized social media networks Guest Bio: Bri Teresi is the host of Free The…

Maggie Love, Founder and CEO of SheFi, discusses the critical role of the community in managing decentralized spaces and making crypto accessible and relatable for all. She delves into the importance of building technology that works for everyone (not just early insiders), and details the urgent mission she's on with SheFi: to ensure women aren't left behind in the next era of the Internet. Key Takeaways: SheFi's collaboration with Brave, including scholarships offered for their next cohort What real crypto onboarding should look like: education beyond buzzwords Why community is the missing layer in crypto adoption, and current friction points holding Web3 back How AI and crypto may collide at both the application and infrastructure layers What the future of the internet could look like for women+ builders if their mission succeeds What it takes to build technology that works for everyone (not just the early insiders) Guest Bio: Maggie Love is an educator, entrepreneur, and the founder of SheFi, a platform…

Manoj Saxena, Founder and CEO of Trustwise, explains why agentic AI represents a major shift inside organizations: from AI as a tool to AI as an active participant. He addresses the operational challenges that organizations face today, including AI-to-AI interactions, opaque decision-making, regulatory pressure, and the growing need for continuous oversight as AI systems gain autonomy. Key Takeaways: The ways AI agents are already taking on roles once owned by humans How leaders should prepare for AI systems that negotiate, decide, and act independently The emerging risks of AI acting without visibility, guardrails, or accountability Why trust, safety, and governance must operate in real time, not retroactively The organizational and cultural implications of humans managing AI agents Guest Bio: Manoj Saxena is the Founder, CEO, and Chairman of Trustwise—an award-winning AI safety company focused on securing and governing agentic AI systems—and the Founder and Chairman of the Responsible AI Institute. Widely…

Kapil Gupta, former Enterprise AI Product & Platform Leader at Cigna, shares insights from more than two decades of turning cutting-edge technology into enterprise-ready products. He unpacks the difference between generative AI and agentic AI, and why governance, user choice, and thoughtful design matter just as much as innovation. Learn how enterprises can scale responsibly and why the best technology often feels invisible to the people using it. Key Takeaways: The tangible difference between generative AI and agent-based workflows Why adoption depends on fitting into existing workflows, rather than forcing behavior change The challenge of legacy systems and disconnected data How companies can innovate quickly without introducing unnecessary risk How pushing back, probing, and questioning AI can unlock more value Why listening to users matters more than building flashy features Guest Bio: Kapil Gupta is an executive product leader specializing in leveraging emerging technologies to solve complex business…

Chastity Murphy, former Senior Advisor at the U.S.Treasury and Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Manchester, shares her experiences working on digital money legislation, including the Stable Act. She reflects on the transition from cash to digital payments along with her current research developing offline, anonymous public interest payment systems. Key Takeaways: How early stablecoin legislation shaped our understanding of digital money, privacy, and consumer protection The gap between technologists and policymakers in understanding digital money Real-world risks of surveillance and data visibility in financial transactions The potential for new cryptographic capabilities like selective disclosure and zero-knowledge proofs Practical approaches for creating offline, anonymous, and interoperable digital payment systems that don't sacrifice usability Guest Bio: Chastity Murphy is a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Manchester's Law & Technology Initiative, and one of the leading…

Evin McMullen, co-founder and CEO of Billions Network, explores how identity for agents is going to unlock the next era of the Internet. She shares outcomes from collaborations with regulatory bodies and major companies (like HSBC and TikTok), along with their use of Zero Knowledge Proofs in proving you're human without giving up privacy. Key Takeaways: How Billions Network plans to save the Internet, starting first with scaling trust (while balancing convenience and privacy) The critical importance of identity verification in an increasingly AI-dominated digital landscape, and the biggest challenges to solving for this The risks for humanity if we don't achieve decentralized identity before AI and agents becomes ubiquitous Guest Bio: Evin McMullen is the CEO and co-founder of Billions Network, the first universal human and AI network. Billions Network is pioneering a mobile-first identity layer that verifies both humans and AI agents—proving uniqueness, KYC/AML status, location, age, or even machine…

Charles Hoskinson is a co-founder of Ethereum, and the CEO and Founder of Input | Output (the company behind the Cardano blockchain). In this episode he shares his journey into the world of cryptocurrencies and his early influences. He also explains the conception and operational details of the Midnight Network (a privacy-focused, layer-two solution), and discusses his ambitious efforts in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. Key Takeaways: Trillion dollar disruption ideas and a vision for how users will interact with the Internet in 2035 Why regulation is the single most exciting opportunity for DeFi Ways we can bring the world together in 2026 by working more cooperatively and combatting polarization How regenerative species force us to rethink how humans should approach longevity Cutting-edge research involving exosomes, electrical fields and hyperbarics Guest Bio: Charles Hoskinson is a co-founder of Ethereum, and the CEO & Founder of Input | Output (the company behind the Cardano blockchain). He also…

Dave Chatterjee, Adjunct Associate Professor at Duke University, explains how scale, speed, and surprise are reshaping cyber threats and why many organizations remain dangerously reactive. He shares his Commitment-Preparedness-Discipline (CPD) framework along with ways that leaders can move beyond checkbox compliance by treating cybersecurity as a strategic business priority. Key Takeaways: The three underestimated AI risks that leaders often overlook, and how AI must be used to defend against AI-driven cyber threats Why deepfake attacks represent a systemic risk at both the individual and organizational levels Practical steps individuals can take to reduce exposure to fraud, impersonation, and data loss How better cybersecurity hygiene creates trust, resilience, and competitive advantage Guest Bio: Dave Chatterjee, Ph.D., is a leading authority on cybersecurity strategy, governance, and AI security. As the creator of the Commitment-Preparedness-Discipline (CPD) framework, he helps organizations worldwide…

Leah Price, Vice President of Tinman AI Platform at better.com, breaks down why traditional subscription-based pricing no longer works and how outcome-driven AI can unlock real value for enterprises. She also shares how embedded AI, avatars, and automation are transforming the mortgage experience for both lenders and borrowers, and what the future of AI-powered financial infrastructure could look like. Key Takeaways: How Tinman AI embeds generative AI across an entire mortgage tech stack The limitations of traditional ROI models in enterprise AI adoption, and Tinman's vision for outcome-based pricing How AI avatars and bots reduce borrower friction and improve trust What the future of mortgage lending could look like with AI as infrastructure Guest Bio: Leah Price serves as Vice President leading the Tinman® AI Platform at Better, the AI-powered homeownership company. Under her leadership, the Tinman AI Platform will be offered to lenders and brokers across the country as an API-accessible platform.…

Bhavesh Mehta and Mahesh Kumar—senior technology leaders at Uber and co-authors of the practical guide AI-First Leader—discuss the lessons learned from Nova Bridge's collapse, and share best practices for mitigating hidden risks that can derail ambitious AI projects. They also share specific ways that small businesses and Fortune 500 companies can embrace AI from a place of empowerment rather than fear. Key Takeaways: Ways to align C-suite leaders and engineering teams around a unified AI roadmap The most underestimated human factor that determines whether an AI transformation succeeds How overlooked vulnerabilities, insufficient oversight, and the rush to deploy led to unexpected fallout of the Nova Bridge Chat The unforeseen dangers lurking within AI systems Guest Bio: Bhavesh Mehta is a technology leader and co-author of AI-First Leader, a practical guide for executives navigating enterprise AI adoption. With over 20 years of experience across Cisco, Uber, and VMware, Bhavesh has architected large-scale…

Emad Mostaque, founder and CEO of Intelligent Internet, discusses his vision for an open and intelligent internet, along with the impact it can have on everyday users. He acknowledges the risks of AI surpassing human capabilities, but shares an optimistic view of where the true strength of a society lies. He also discusses the ways communities can withstand these disruptions and thrive in a changing world. Key Takeaways: What problems AI agents are ready to solve today, and when we can expect future unlocks The future of low-cost intellectual work, and how specialized AI agents can be designed to safely reduce cognitive friction The implications of AI on a nation's gross domestic product (GDP), and the importance of measuring community intelligence Advice for parents raising the next generation of users Guest Bio: Emad Mostaque is the founder of Intelligent Internet, and is dedicated to advancing distributed and accessible artificial intelligence systems. As founder of Stability AI, he influenced the…

Arjun Khemani, memetic warlord at Zcash, shares his journey from questioning conventional thinking to becoming an advocate for rational optimism and privacy in the digital age. He discusses the importance of fighting for freedom, why memes are powerful tools for spreading ideas, and why users should remain skeptical of authority. Key Takeaways: Why privacy is fundamental to freedom and how Zcash is helping us get closer to that ideal The role of shielded transactions in increasing your anonymity What's at stake if we don't transact privately, including broader implications for personal and financial autonomy How memes shape culture and technology, along with the dangers and opportunities they present The increasing need for independent and critical thinking in the digital world Guest Bio: Arjun Khemani is an author, podcaster, and memetic warlord, helping spread rationally optimistic memes to create a better world. He's currently working on the Zcash mission—a privacy-focused cryptocurrency which features an…

Thorsten Jaeckel, Head of Product at 0x and Matcha, discusses the biggest hurdles facing DeFi adoption—including regulatory uncertainty, user experience challenges, security concerns, and the need for better education. Discover what it will take for decentralized finance to reach the masses and get a glimpse of the path forward for DeFi. Key Takeaways: How the rise of Layer 2 solutions are shaping (and complicating) the next phase of DeFi. What's holding back tokenized equities, and what it'll take to overcome regulatory hurdles. The significance of execution transparency in building user trust. The importance of creating DeFi products that feel as seamless as Web2 applications. How Matcha is making it easier for newcomers to start trading in DeFi. Guest Bio: Thorsten Jaeckel is the Head of Product at 0x and Matcha, where he leads product development for one of the top decentralized exchange aggregators in Web3. He's been building in crypto since 2017 and previously held product leadership roles at Coinbase…

Sean Hehir, CEO of BrainChip, discusses their innovative neuromorphic technology, which mimics the way the human brain processes information to enable smarter, more efficient edge computing. We explore the real-world impact of bringing AI directly to devices, from wearables to smart home products, and what this means for speed, privacy, and energy efficiency. Tune in to learn how BrainChip is paving the way for a new generation of intelligent electronics and what's next for brain-inspired artificial intelligence. Key Takeaways: How BrainChip is working across health tech, automotive, and consumer electronics to make brain-inspired AI a reality in the products we use every day. How BrainChip worked with Onsor Technologies to unveil AI-powered wearable glasses that predict epileptic seizures before they happen. Neuromorphic computing: what it is, why it's important, and how Brainchip is innovating in this area. Why energy efficiency is the hidden frontier we need in AI's next big leap. How Edge and Cloud AI…

Jay Chrawnna, director of The Kus, dives into the subtle ways people are already using Web3 in everyday transactions (often without realizing it) and what this means for the future of consumer Web3. He explores how gaming projects like FIFA Rivals are redefining digital asset ownership, and highlights how entities like the Indonesian government are leveraging blockchain to improve transparency, efficiency, and mainstream accessibility. Key Takeaways: How the next wave of Web3 could be completely invisible to users. Why Polkadot may be the only platform capable of scaling Web3 at full potential. What "Consumer Web3" really means, and why it's about more than wallets and tokens. How blockchain is being used to reimagine institutions at a massive scale. Guest Bio: Jay Chrawnna is the director of The Kus, a media broadcaster for Polkadot. On the Space Monkeys Podcast and weekly Attempts at Governance liveshows, the DOT eco's top movers and doers drive discourse and shape the second age of Polkadot. Jay…

Juan Leon, Senior Investment Strategist at Bitwise Asset Management, unpacks the rapid institutional adoption of Bitcoin and Ethereum, fueled by ETFs, regulatory clarity, and the rise of tokenization. He shares key trends shaping the next phase of crypto, including the integration of traditional finance and DeFi, and how this evolution could redefine corporate treasuries and real-world asset investing. Key Takeaways How major financial institutions are embracing stablecoins and blockchain infrastructure What the surge in tokenization means for the $500T real-world asset opportunity How Ethereum treasuries could unlock new income streams for traditional investors Why the convergence of Wall Street and DeFi may be closer than ever Guest Bio: Juan Leon is the Senior Investment Strategist at Bitwise Asset Management, where over the past 4 years he has helped lead research, product strategy, fund management, and sales engagements. He is a CFA charter holder, and prior to Bitwise Juan was a Portfolio Manager of…

Jack Pertschuck, former Principal Engineer at Pinecone, discusses what vector databases are and why they matter for AI and search applications. He also discusses the challenges of communicating the value of this technology when the problem isn't widely understood. Key Takeaways: Advice for teams looking to adopt vector search technology The importance of hybrid and cascading retrieval methods The significance of context engineering and evaluation metrics in AI systems How Pinecone is democratizing vector database technology for AI and machine learning applications Guest Bio: Jack Pertschuk is a former Principal Engineer with Pinecone, the market leader in vector databases. As the company's founding engineer and lead for algorithms, applied research, and platform, Jack is responsible for the roadmap and execution across research and engineering for search index efficiency and accuracy. Prior to Pinecone, Jack was a founder of SidekickQA and creator of the NBoost open source neural ranking engine. He is an…

Andrew Pelekis, CEO of Claynosaurz, shares how they're making digital ownership fun, accessible, and frictionless. He also discusses the role of community and fan engagement in the success of digital brands. Key Takeaways: What they've learned from prior cycles about bringing blockchain projects to mainstream communities How audience participation has changed, and what new revenue streams have become possible The challenge of protecting original IP and the new fan intelligence system they're building Evolving acceptance of crypto and the need for regulatory clarity Challenges and opportunities of integrating Web3 technologies into mainstream brand building Guest Bio: Andrew Pelekis is the CEO of Claynosaurz, a leading digital entertainment brand building expansive storytelling worlds through Web3, animation, and community-driven IP. He is also the creator of Nobody Sausage, a viral character phenomenon turned entertainment franchise that blends humor, art, and digital culture into a global fan experience. At…

Liz Zaborowska, Founder & CEO of Bhava Communications and Spring Catalyst, explores the common fears and misconceptions that lead to resistance against AI adoption. She emphasizes the importance of proper training and support, ensuring that team members feel confident and secure in their use of AI tools. Key Takeaways: The business benefits of embracing AI, including practical strategies to overcome fears and successfully adopt artificial intelligence throughout your team How AI tools can complement, rather than replace, human creativity The ongoing importance of fact-checking in the digital age Principles of responsible AI use and the policies that support it Ways to maintain authenticity with AI-generated content Guest Bio: Liz Zaborowska is the founder and CEO of Spring Catalyst, where she helps teams optimize performance and navigate AI adoption. With over 20 years in technology and deep expertise in team dynamics, she empowers organizations to transform how they create, communicate, and collaborate in…

Daniela Barbosa, General Manager of Decentralized Technologies at the Linux Foundation, and Executive Director at LF Decentralized Trust, discusses the most promising open-source projects they've supported so far, and how more builders can get involved. She also emphasizes the importance of community contributions and cross-sector partnerships to accelerate the adoption and impact of decentralized technologies. Key Takeaways: How LF Decentralized Trust fits within the Linux Foundation and why it matters Why open source collaboration is key to interoperable, secure trust frameworks Common misconceptions about open-source blockchain The role of open governance in driving enterprise and government adoption How open-source communities are shaping next-gen secure, privacy-first technologies Guest Bio: Daniela Barbosa serves as General Manager of Decentralized Technologies at the Linux Foundation, and Executive Director of LF Decentralized Trust. She has 20+ years of enterprise technology experience, including…

Gerrit, developer relations at Curve Finance, discusses the unique risks and rewards associated with DeFi stablecoins, and how increased regulatory clarity has fueled the rise of TradFi stablecoins. He also spotlights the crucial role of platforms like Curve in providing essential liquidity and stability, ensuring the continued growth and reliability of the stablecoin sector. Key Takeaways: Key differentiators between TradFi and DeFi stablecoins, including their risk / reward profiles The significance of the Genius Act in transforming the stablecoin landscape How regulatory clarity has spurred the growth of TradFi stablecoins, and why their success often ties to their integration within the DeFi ecosystem How AI could both exacerbate and solve problems in crypto, empowering hackers to find exploits faster and increase phishing risks Why crypto adoption surged in countries like Argentina and created real-world utility that outpaced U.S. adoption Guest Bio: Gerrit has been on-chain since 2014. He joined Curve…

Hrish Lotlikar, Co-founder and CEO at SuperWorld, discusses how they're blending the virtual and physical world to unlock diverse opportunities for brands to reach more customers, unlock new monetization opportunities and build community. Key Takeaways: How IRL event organizers can enhance their physical events by utilizing emerging technologies like AR and VR The impact that the US real estate market downturn has had on the virtual real estate market How to decide whether your brand should buy land in the virtual world Guest Bio: Hrish Lotlikar is the Co-founder and CEO at SuperWorld - a virtual world mapped onto the real world, with plots of virtual real estate available to collect as NFTs. Users can buy or sell properties and create opportunities to monetize their land in the Metaverse. Previously, Hrish co-founded Rogue Initiative Studios, a Hollywood film, TV, gaming, and immersive entertainment studio. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this…

Matt Wurst, Founder of PointSymmetry and Co-Founder of Mint, discusses the role that tokens will play in enabling brands to reward and incentivize participation in their metaverse experiences. He also stresses the importance of making Web3 terms and technologies more clear and consistent for everyday users. Key Takeaways: NFT missteps and the critical flaw so many NFT launches have had Who will lead this next phase of Web2.5 and Web3 adoption Connection between metaverse campaigns and building community How to build Web3 brand experiences for the long-term Guest Bio: Matt Wurst is a strategist, marketer and creator whose consultancy, PointSymmetry, works with emerging Web3 brands and platforms as well as established brands and agencies evolving into the space. He is also the co-founder of Mint, a white-label technology platform for leading global brands to get started with digital tokens and Web3 engagement. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this…

Andrew Klein, SVP, Web3 Brand Strategy & Innovation at Publicis Media, discusses how they're helping brands convert their existing audiences to Web3 without scaring them off by unfamiliar technologies. He also shares his vision of the limitless creative potential that metaverse environments offer. Key Takeaways: Setting goals and being strategic when utilizing these technologies, but also uncovering the revenue potential opportunities for brands in the metaverse Erasing the complexity of wallet setup by allowing people to utilize familiar Web2 credentials in order to participate Revenue opportunities that Web3 and metaverse portals can unlock for brands Guest Bio: Andrew Klein is SVP, Web3 Brand Strategy & Innovation at Publicis Media. In his role, Andrew leads the Web3 brand strategy and ideation for NFT, Digital Collectible and Metaverse experiences. He has developed and launched the first NFT experiences for brands like Campbell's and Macy's. Most recently he co-led the development of the record-breaking…

Hugo Feiler, Co-Founder and CEO of Minima, shares how they've been partnering with their community to stress test their technology, and amplify their brand message through token based gamification. He also shares the role that creators will play in the adoption of Web3, and in educating the masses. Key Takeaways: Empowering their community with marketing materials and resources to attract new users How to evaluate grassroot marketing strategies such as sponsoring podcasts and events The creative meme competitions they're running with their community as a growth marketing tactic Why a mobile native blockchain is so important for Web 3.0. Guest Bio: Hugo Feiler is the Co-Founder and CEO of Minima - the world's only mobile native blockchain. Prior to launching Minima, Hugo spent two decades in marketing communications. He was Co-Founder of London based creative agency Alpha Century, Managing Director at Grey London creating global campaigns for brands including Vodafone, Toshiba and Sony Electronics. He also…

Arjun Bhatnagar, CEO and Abhijay Bhatnagar, Chief Product Officer at Cloaked discuss the role privacy will play in the evolution of the Internet and the transition to Web3. They also share the reasoning behind their surprising decision to build Cloaked off the blockchain. Key Takeaways: Why a consumer-first approach to privacy so important How advertising is changing in a cookieless world Influencer marketing and the impact of celebrity endorsement trends on marketers Guest Bios: Arjun Bhatnagar is the CEO of Cloaked -- a consumer-first privacy startup dedicated to bringing humanity to the internet. At 26, Arjun has successfully started two companies, taught coding at MIT, been a partner at a venture firm, and founded a non-profit dedicated to bringing education to underserved communities. He knows 15 coding languages and has been featured in a range of publications including TechCrunch, Fast Company, Forbes, CNBC and more. Abhijay Bhatnagar is the Chief Product Officer of Cloaked where he guides technical…

Thomas Webb, Founder of Worldwide Webb 3, discusses the real fear of missing out brands are facing if they don't embrace emerging technologies such as Web3 proactively. He also shares how gaming will be the future of entertainment. Key Takeaways: Why Web3 is permissionless and what this means for brands What traits make a game successful in the metaverse The most common mistakes web2 brands are making when entering the metaverse Educational resources for learning about Web3 Guest Bio: Thomas Webb is a contemporary artist, hacker, video game developer, TEDx speaker. His art has been featured in a collection curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist and was later nominated for a Webby Award. Right now, he's building the leading MMORPG on the blockchain, using web3 technology to create a completely unique gaming experience. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Marketer Podcast is hosted by Donny Dvorin, VP, Head of Sales at Brave Software - the…

Justin Hochberg, CEO of the Virtual Brand Group, shares how he's helping brands have an omnichannel metaverse presence including his work with Forever21 and NBC's The Voice. He also discusses how to decide which metaverse platforms are best for your brand to start with, and how to define success when there's limited information available. In this episode we discuss: Justin's approach to converting eyeballs into revenue – helping organizations innovate while remaining fiscally responsible Getting buy-in from leaders across an organization who are unsure about taking a chance with Web3 How their team worked with Roblox to create Forever21's first digital fashion collection in the metaverse Launching the most watched TV Show in the world - The Voice - into the metaverse Guest Bio: Justin Hochberg is the CEO of the Virtual Brand Group, an award-winning metaverse pioneer that transforms global brands into metaverse businesses. They've partnered across 5 sectors fashion, retail, sports, lifestyle and…

Mark van Rijmenam, Strategic Futurist and Founder of the Digital Futures Institute, discusses the many complex and exciting ways the shift from a 2D to a 3D internet will impact our lives. He also urges us to fight for an open metaverse as part of this shift in order to protect our data and future digital selves. In this episode we discuss: How marketers and advertisers will need to shift their approach - think more deeply and strategically - to market in the metaverse effectively Why it's not enough to say your product will make your consumer happy anymore – your advertisement itself needs to create a joyful experience Examples of how augmented reality and a decentralized Web3 Internet will benefit various sectors from manufacturing, sports, gaming and more How he wrote his latest book in 5 days using AI (ChatGPT) Creating brand experiences to effectively engage with Generation Alpha Guest Bio: Dr Mark van Rijmenam is The Digital Speaker. He is a leading future tech strategist who thinks about how emerging…

Quinn Campbell, VP of Growth at Sky Mavis, discusses how they're working with Web3 content creators, and the critical role these partners play in converting the masses to Web3. Quinn also shares how he thinks marketers are missing the mark in Web3 marketing by focusing on tech features over the experiential impact Web3 has on the end user. In this episode, we discuss: The future of Web3 growth tech and resources for your marketing tech stack Advertising payment models: making things people want to buy Why a bear market is a beautiful thing! The biggest existential question in Web3: how do we convert the masses? Guest Bio: Quinn Campbell is the VP of Growth at Sky Mavis, which is a web3 tech company, NFT games publisher, and the developer of Axie Infinity. During his time in web3, Quinn has: negotiated Google Play's first-ever approval for a blockchain-linked & NFT-integrated game, shipped the industry's largest web3 creator program, developed Sky Mavis's conversion rate optimization squad and more!…

Ryan Kumar, Founder and CEO of Mintdropz, explains why we're in the caveman stages of an unexplored metaverse. He shares his predictions for when we can expect to see mainstream adoption of the metaverse and what needs to happen first In this episode we discuss: Making cold outreach personal via Twitter and email marketing The state of the crypto market and mindsets for investor success Why the next phase of the metaverse will be social Guest Bio: Ryan Kumar is the founder of Mintdropz - a Decentralized Social Media platform, built to help creators build, grow, and monetize their communities. With a market cap of over $100m Mintdropz is partnered / backed by the biggest blockchains, Polygon, Algorand, Celo & Avalanche. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Marketer Podcast is hosted by Donny Dvorin, VP, Head of Sales at Brave Software - the makers of the privacy-respecting browser with a built-in ads platform that rewards users for…

Jon Hook, CMO at PlayEmber, discusses their efforts to attract more gamers by removing the blockchain infrastructure as a barrier. He also explains how marketers can apply this across sectors outside of gaming to increase mainstream adoption of their Web3 projects. In this episode we discuss: Creating custom content for unique social media channels and accommodating their algorithms (advertising on Twitter versus marketing on TikTok) Gaming in the metaverse and how the experience is (and is not) changing for players Mental health in Web3 and gaming: why the problem is only getting bigger and the role leaders and companies should play Guest Bio: Jon Hook is the CMO at PlayEmber - a creator monetisation platform to help games studios, brands, web3 artists and NFT collections monetise their products and services. Previously he was CEO at BoomBit Group, CRO at Homa Games, and the co-founder of Odyssey Mobile Jon is also an active angel investor in the gaming sector with investments covering mobile games studios,…

Andrew Milich, CEO of Skiff, discusses their commitment to consumer privacy despite its associated marketing challenges. He explains how their team has gotten creative with their marketing strategies - utilizing privacy preserving forms of marketing to reach their desired audiences. In this episode we discuss: How to balance advertising quality and returns from your ads while still protecting privacy The intersection of crypto and privacy and how Skiff fits How market changes are impacting marketers, including marketing in Web3 channels Predictions for when crypto will finally displace major markets and infrastructure Guest Bio: Andrew Milich is the CEO and Co-founder of Skiff. Andrew grew up in New York City and graduated from Stanford University as the Henry Ford II Scholar. After spending years programming in security and autonomous vehicles - and spending time working around the world - Andrew founded Skiff. Skiff's email and collaboration products are an end-to-end encrypted, privacy-first workspace,…

Michael Liu, SVP, Head of Innovation at Dentsu Media and Kevin Villatoro, Partnerships at Dentsu, share how their agency clients are responding to Web3 marketing opportunities and taking their first (small) steps. They also explain why Web3 isn't the channel to fight for attention, but rather to engage consumers in meaningful ways, embracing innovation while providing real value. Key Takeaways: Trade offs marketers are making when choosing to experiment in the Metaverse Battling red tape and governance when getting your brand into Web3, and the value of getting finance and legal team on board from the get-go How to onboard the masses to Web3 and what's being built now to increase mainstream adoption of blockchain technologies Future predictions for the metaverse and how this will impact marketers Guest Bio: Michael Liu, SVP, Head of Innovation at Dentsu Media Recently Michael has been focused on exploring new forms of incentive structures, consumer connection points, and new business models for brands via…

Avery Akkineni, President of Vayner3, discusses the current state of Web3 adoption and her predictions for its future. She explains how brands are currently experimenting with Web 2.5 – a bridge offering the speed and ease of use from Web2 but with the ownership and self-sovereignty of Web3. Key takeaways: The difference between stunt campaigns and always-on marketing when it comes to the metaverse and what it will take to succeed in Web3 channels Using Tokenproof to distribute NFTs for token-ticketed events Examples of the most meaningful partnerships and activations that have happened in Metaverse so far (e.g. Time, Budweiser, Adidas) Guest Bio: Avery Akkineni is the President of Vayner3 - a consultancy she launched alongside serial entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk.Partnering with dozens of Fortune 500 corporations across industries, Vayner3 has successfully advised organizations on strategic Web3 initiatives across cryptocurrency applications, NFT program development, and immersive digital experiences.…

Brands are navigating the new Web3 world and with it comes an opportunity for experimentation, innovation and engaging consumers in entirely new ways. But where do you start and when? In this new season of The Brave Marketer Podcast, we're talking Web3 Marketing and how to market in the Metaverse. You'll hear from marketers from top brands and agencies who will help us leverage this exciting moment in time, and take our brave marketing moments to the next level. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Marketer Podcast is hosted by Donny Dvorin, VP, Head of Sales at Brave Software - the makers of the privacy-respecting web browser with a built-in ads platform that rewards users for their attention with the Basic Attention Token. Brave is at the forefront of a new online privacy frontier and has unique insights into the future of marketing and advertising in a cookieless world. This podcast will provide a backstage view of how leading marketers are…

Kelly Poquiz Burke, Associate Director of Brand Marketing & Strategy at Avocados From Mexico, discusses many of the brand experiences their team has launched in an effort to create a deep, emotional connection with consumers, despite lacking any marketing ability on their products themselves. She also shares her approach to Web3 marketing: sticking to a strategy instead of chasing shiny objects. Key Takeaways: How to build integrated, omnichannel marketing campaigns for the Superbowl Ways that produce brands can join Web3 and implement activations for the Metaverse Importance of authentic, purpose driven marketing that showcases your brand values Guest Bio: Kelly Burke is the Associate Director of Brand Marketing & Strategy at Avocados from Mexico and leads the brand equity efforts for the number 1 avocado brand in the U.S. For over 11 years, she has been passionate about building brands that touch people's lives every day, and has worked on household names like Frito-Lay, Chick-Fil-A, Central Market,…

Lisa Marie Paul, Head of Content and Partnerships at Talenthouse AG, discusses how millenial and Gen Z mindsets have changed consumer expectations surrounding advertising. We examine how marketers are challenged with creating large amounts of content very quickly, without compromising quality, authenticity or relatability. Key Takeaways: What brand marketers can learn from the "race to space" How brands can evaluate where to spend their marketing dollars to make the biggest impact on their target audience Why the ability to lean into future technologies starts with education and awareness Ways to track ROI and specific metrics for evaluating the success of campaigns Guest Bio: Lisa Marie, Head of Content and Partnerships at Talenthouse AG, is focused on leading dynamic teams to build out world-class strategies, authentic content for diverse audiences and driving revenue from partnerships. Plus, advocating and campaigning for equality and diversity within the workplace, mentoring women across the creative…

Stacy Wakefield, VP of Marketing at Delphia, discusses her biggest new marketing challenge: building a Web3 brand and community. She explains the complexities of managing risk and compliance and how Web3 differs from Web2 marketing tactics. In this episode we discuss: Importance of marketing team building strong working relationships across product and compliance departments Ways to collect direct feedback from your audience including user interviews and platforms like Discord The shift to building community as a tactic for mainstream user adoption Guest Bio: Stacy Wakefield is the VP of Marketing at Delphia, an investment platform that lets you invest your money and your data. Stacy has spent her whole career in digital marketing primarily in Fintech at brands like Credit Karma, Credit Sesame and SoFi. Stacy's biggest new marketing challenge is building a web3 brand at Delphia and learning about the exciting and mysterious world of crypto. ------------------------------------------------------ About this…

Kate Brady, Head of Next Gen D2C Consumer Experience & Direct Digital Marketing Capabilities at PepsiCo, shares how mainstream brands and marketers can utilize Web3 technologies. Kate's team is currently testing a number of next gen initiatives as part of PepsiCo's newly established Web3 & Metaverse Center of Enablement. We also discuss the removal of third-party trackers and moving towards a private internet while still owning the communication with your audience and prioritizing zero first-party data. Key Takeaways: Why marketers need to examine the value exchange they're offering their consumers – how to get smarter and more consumer centric. Ways that mainstream brands like PepsiCo, Starbucks and Walmart are utilizing Web3 technologies like NFTs and the Metaverse to increase loyalty. Resources for marketers wanting to experiment with Web3 and why this is the best time to get started in the space. Kate's brave marketing moment: Combining The Walking Dead, Augmented Reality and the Mountain Dew to motivate…

Sierra Reed, Vice President Director of Social Strategy at Digitas, discusses how she's successfully leaned into brave marketing moments and stood up for her values, even in the early days of her career. She also shares how she's helping brands like Macy's and Crocs act boldly through her agency work. Key Takeaways: Why marketers should think long term and create memorable brand experiences that last Social media trends and how consumers are engaging with each of the social media platforms (TikTok, twitter, Facebook and Instagram) in different ways How brands can work with creators in an empowering way that strengthens the creator economy as a whole Guest Bio: Sierra Reed has over 10 years of experience in Social, Influencer, and Content Strategy. She was the lead social strategist for brands such as Estee Lauder, MAC Cosmetics, and Chime as they expanded into TikTok and worked with Creators across the globe. As a strategist, she is always looking at how the internet's changing landscape provides new…