Show cover of Block by Block: A Show on Web3 Growth Marketing

Block by Block: A Show on Web3 Growth Marketing

Each week, I sit down with the innovators and builders shaping the future of crypto and web3.Growth isn’t a sprint; it’s a process—built gradually, step by step, block by block.Let’s build something incredible, together. All onchain.

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SummaryIn this episode, Clouted from ETH Strategy speaks with Peter Abilla and breaks down how they are trying to build an autonomous, on-chain “investment bank” for Ethereum. He walks through how Michael Saylor’s use of convertible notes inspired their structure, why volatility is the raw material for the strategy, and how the protocol aims to grow a large ETH-denominated treasury over time. We talk about execution risk, product market fit, and why everything has to be transparent and market driven. Clouted also shares his core bet that ETH will trend up over the long run and how ETH Strategy wants to package that view into a set of on-chain products powered by volatility, leverage, and clear governance.Takeaways— ETH Strategy’s goal is to become a decentralized investment bank built around Ethereum.— The design borrows ideas from Michael Saylor’s convertible notes playbook and applies them on-chain.— Volatility is not a bug, it is the core input the protocol tries to monetize.— The protocol wants to open up volatility and treasury-style strategies to regular DeFi users.— Execution risk, both technical and organizational, is one of the biggest challenges.— The core thesis is that ETH appreciates over time and the system is built around that long-term trend.— Radical transparency is required so depositors can see and judge every move the strategy makes.— ETH Strategy aims to keep shipping new on-chain financial products around ETH and volatility.— The long-term vision is a large ETH treasury and growing earnings per share for the STRAT token.— Market signals, not committees, should guide how the protocol evolves and allocates capital.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to ETH Strategy(01:18) Understanding the protocol’s foundation(06:04) TradFi playbooks versus DeFi-native design(09:50) Mechanics of ETH Strategy’s treasury(15:15) The vision behind ETH Strategy(19:45) Current treasury holdings and future outlook(21:37) Governance, control, and strategy shifts(24:10) Finding product market fit in crypto(27:30) Why transparency matters in vault strategies(27:54) Core assumptions behind ETH Strategy(30:34) Understanding execution risks in DeFi(32:29) The role of volatility in ETH strategies(34:40) Evaluating Ethereum Layer 2 environments(38:47) ETH as a long-term store of value(40:59) Innovating ETH strategies for better yield(46:53) Vision for ETH Strategy over the next 12–24 monthsFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

2/2/26 • 53:44

SummaryIn this conversation, Alex Miller from Stacks Labs discusses with Peter Abilla the evolution of Bitcoin and the Stacks ecosystem. He shares his journey into Bitcoin, emphasizing its role as a competitive force against fiat currencies and the importance of decentralizing trust. The discussion covers the unique features of Stacks as a Layer 2 solution, its growing developer ecosystem, and innovative applications like dual stacking that allow users to earn Bitcoin. Miller also highlights the importance of user experience and institutional participation in the Stacks ecosystem, concluding with the vision of Stacks Labs to activate the Bitcoin economy. In this conversation, Alex Miller discusses his approach to leadership as a CEO, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing tasks and fostering a collaborative work environment. He explores the balance between professionalism and maintaining a unique culture within the crypto space, particularly in relation to Bitcoin and Stacks. The discussion also covers key performance indicators for measuring success, the role of Stacks Labs in supporting developers, and the significance of framing crypto projects as small businesses. Miller shares insights from his experience testifying in Congress and outlines his vision for the future of the Stacks ecosystem, highlighting the need to unlock Bitcoin liquidity for decentralized finance.TakeawaysBitcoin serves as a competitive force against government fiat systems.Decentralizing trust is the true innovation of Bitcoin.Stacks aims to enhance Bitcoin's capabilities without compromising its security.The Stacks ecosystem has a rapidly growing developer base.Dual stacking allows users to earn Bitcoin while participating in DeFi.Stacks is unique in its mining process, linking it directly to Bitcoin.The Stacks ecosystem supports a diverse range of applications.User experience is crucial for the adoption of decentralized systems.Institutional participation is growing in the Stacks ecosystem.The vision of Stacks Labs is to activate the Bitcoin economy. Try and not let other people prioritize my day.Fast cycle times are important for iteration.You're like a bus driver, keep the bus pointed in the right direction.Be obsessed about the strategy and top level stuff.Professionalizing is a good thing, but avoid being corporate.We need a market structure bill to support good projects.It's a mixture of competition and collaboration among Layer 2s.Our main role is to build the blockchain and support developers.Testifying in front of Congress was a crazy experience.We have more small businesses in Bitcoin than any other ecosystem.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bitcoin and Stacks Ecosystem03:04 The Appeal of Bitcoin and Decentralized Trust05:52 Understanding Stacks: A Layer 2 Solution for Bitcoin09:07 Comparing Stacks with Other Bitcoin Layer 2 Solutions11:52 Building a Developer Ecosystem on Stacks15:06 Innovative Applications in the Stacks Ecosystem17:59 Dual Stacking: A New Approach to Bitcoin Yield21:02 User Experience and Institutional Participation in Stacks24:05 The Vision and Growth Strategy of Stacks Labs25:44 Prioritizing the Day: A CEO's Approach27:54 Professionalism vs. Corporate Culture in Crypto31:08 MeasuringFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/28/26 • 49:32

SummaryIn this conversation, Peter Abilla interviews Alex Shevchenko, head of Aurora Labs and a key developer of NEAR Protocol. They discuss the impressive growth of NEAR Intents, its innovative approach to cross-chain interoperability, and the importance of user experience in crypto transactions. Alex explains how NEAR Intents differentiates itself from traditional bridges and centralized exchanges, emphasizing the need for a seamless user experience. The conversation also touches on NEAR's market share growth and distribution strategies, highlighting partnerships with wallets and other platforms. In this conversation, Peter Abilla and Alex Shevchenko delve into the complexities of the crypto landscape, focusing on security risks, user experience, and the evolving role of technology in the industry. They discuss the importance of simplifying communication for broader adoption, the dynamics of wallet providers, and the future of Near Intents in expanding financial use cases. The integration of AI with blockchain is also highlighted as a significant trend shaping the future of commerce and technology.TakeawaysNEAR Protocol has achieved significant market share in cross-chain infrastructure.Chain signatures are a key innovation for NEAR's interoperability.User experience in crypto is crucial for adoption.NEAR Intents operates like a decentralized exchange.The complexity of blockchain transactions should be hidden from users.Partnerships with wallets are essential for distribution.The growth of NEAR Intents has been organic and consistent.Decentralization offers security that centralized exchanges cannot guarantee.The biggest assets in crypto are often not wrapped assets.User stickiness to wallets can drive transaction volume.  Security risks in crypto transactions are significant and must be addressed.User experience is paramount in the crypto space, focusing on peace of mind.The crypto industry needs to shift from technology jargon to user-centric messaging.Simplifying complex concepts can lead to broader adoption of crypto technologies.Wallet providers often prioritize fees over user choice, impacting user experience.Business development agreements can influence user decisions in crypto transactions.The future of Near Intents includes expanding financial use cases beyond spot trading.AI integration with blockchain presents new opportunities for decentralized applications.Decentralized Confidential Machine Learning (DCML) is a promising development in AI.The synergy between AI and blockchain can lead to innovative solutions in the market.Chapters00:00 Introduction to NEAR Protocol and NEAR Intents05:06 Understanding Cross-Chain Interoperability10:55 User Experience in Crypto Transactions16:41 NEAR Intents vs. Traditional Bridges22:38 Market Share Growth and Distribution Strategies29:39 Navigating Security Risks in Crypto Transactions31:14 The Importance of User Experience in Crypto32:34 The Shift from Technology to User-Centric Messaging34:06 Simplifying Complex Concepts for Broader Adoption35:44 Understanding Wallet Provider Dynamics38:24 Business Development Agreements in Crypto41:10 Future Directions for Near Intents43:57 Expanding Financial Use Cases in Crypto46:51 AI and Blockchain: A SynergisticFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/26/26 • 53:26

SummaryIn this episode of the Block by Block show, Peter Abilla interviews Dom Ryder, the founder of Alvara.xyz, a decentralized finance protocol that aims to revolutionize crypto asset management. Dom shares his journey from traditional finance to the world of DeFi, highlighting the injustices he faced in the industry that inspired him to create Alvara.xyz. The conversation delves into the unique features of Alvara.xyz, including the ERC-7621 token standard, which allows for active management of crypto assets, and the platform's focus on meritocracy. Dom explains the customer journey, the marketplace dynamics for money managers, and the potential for institutions and DAOs to utilize Alvara.xyz for asset management. The episode concludes with insights into the future of Alvara.xyz and its upcoming mainnet launch. In this conversation, Dominic Ryder discusses the complexities of venture capital investments in the crypto space, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of market behavior and the challenges faced by projects that may not be trendy but still hold value. He outlines the go-to-market strategies for Alvara, focusing on the importance of psychological marketing and the need for a strong community. The discussion also covers the fee structures and incentives for money managers on the platform, as well as the potential for institutional adoption. Finally, Ryder critiques the theatrical nature of token launches in the crypto industry, highlighting the need for a shift in how projects are rewarded.TakeawaysAlvara.xyz was created in response to nepotism in traditional finance.The ERC-7621 token standard allows for decentralized asset management.Alvara.xyz empowers individuals to manage their own funds without traditional barriers.The platform provides a marketplace for money managers to showcase their performance.It's designed to be a meritocracy with no glass ceilings for success.Users can mint, manage, and even sell their funds on Alvara.xyz.Alvara.xyz is currently in public testnet, preparing for mainnet launch.The platform aims to attract institutions for liquidity and scalability.DAOs can use Alvara.xyz to de-risk their treasury holdings.Alvara.xyz's unique approach sets it apart from other DeFi protocols. Utility doesn't always reward good behavior.VCs can still believe in projects despite market downturns.Marketing in crypto requires a psychological approach.People need to feel clever about their purchases.The importance of community in crypto marketing.Alvara's fee structure incentivizes managers and contributors.Institutional capital can drive market dynamics.Token launches often resemble theater rather than genuine value.The crypto market rewards risky behavior over good practices.There's a need for better risk management in crypto investments.Chapters00:00 The Genesis of Alvara.xyz05:28 Understanding Alvara.xyz's Unique Approach10:04 The ERC-7621 Token Standard Explained12:41 Customer Journey and User Experience21:34 Marketplace Dynamics and Performance Metrics30:42 Target Audience: Institutions and Beyond31:35 The Fickle Nature of VC Investments35:35 Go-to-Market Strategies in Crypto40:03 Navigating Risks and Responsibilities44:21 Fee Structures and Incentives47:44 Institutional Adoption and Market Dynamics53:11 Theatrical Nature of Token LaunchesFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/21/26 • 59:19

SummaryIn this conversation, Erick Ho, co-founder of Function Network, shares his journey from creating a RuneScape bot to developing a managed AI cloud platform. He discusses the challenges of sustainability in open source models, the role of blockchain in coordinating AI transactions, and the importance of personalization in AI agents. The conversation also touches on the competitive landscape of AI and crypto, as well as the future plans for Function Network.TakeawaysErick's journey into technology began with creating a RuneScape bot.Bots are an early iteration of AI agents.Open source model sustainability is a pressing issue.Function Network aims to coordinate developers, model creators, and infrastructure providers.Blockchain facilitates seamless payments in the AI ecosystem.AI agents can be hyper-specialized for specific industries.The Function Network is currently attracting developers to its platform.Transaction fees in traditional systems are a barrier to scalability.Personalization enhances the effectiveness of AI models.The AI and crypto landscape is still evolving with many opportunities.Chapters00:00 The Genesis of a Tech Enthusiast02:55 From Gaming to AI: The Evolution of Function Network05:59 Understanding Managed AI Cloud Services09:05 The Sustainability Challenge of Open Source Models12:08 Function Network: Bridging Gaps in AI Development15:02 Targeting Developers: The Function Network Approach18:01 Hyper-Specialized AI Agents in Various Industries20:57 Defining AI Models and Agents24:01 The Intersection of AI and Crypto28:11 Understanding Function Network and Crypto Integration30:47 Traction and Development Progress of Function Network32:34 Target Users and Incentives in Testnet34:12 Challenges in Attracting Model Developers36:30 Navigating Competition in the AI and Crypto Landscape40:30 Differentiating Models in a Crowded Market48:12 Final Thoughts on Overrated Ideas and Influential BuildersFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/19/26 • 53:24

SummaryIn this conversation, Simon Jones, co-founder of Reya, discusses the innovative architecture of their decentralized exchange (DEX) that achieves both speed and decentralization. He explains the target audiences for Reya, including hobbyist and institutional traders, and how the platform is designed to meet their needs. The discussion also covers Reya's unique revenue models, marketing strategies, competitive positioning in the market, and future innovations aimed at enhancing user experience and attracting new traders. In this conversation, Simon Jones discusses the future of decentralized exchanges (DEXs), the importance of trading without fees, and the innovative features of Reya, including its unique incentive mechanisms and community-building strategies. The discussion also covers the role of oracles in DeFi and the vision for Reya to become a leading DEX in the market.TakeawaysReya is a next-generation perp DEX that achieves speed and decentralization.The architecture allows for millisecond-level execution without sacrificing decentralization.Most traders prioritize execution speed over the technical details of the platform.High-frequency trading firms are a significant target audience for Reya.Removing trading fees has proven effective in attracting degen users.Reya's volume has doubled every month since its launch.The platform's long-term strategy includes integrating with Ethereum's DeFi ecosystem.Community engagement and word-of-mouth marketing are key to Reya's growth.Reya is exploring partnerships to enhance its offerings for new traders.Copy trading and vault structures are potential features for less sophisticated traders. Trading without fees is a significant advantage.Enshrining functionality into Ethereum enhances its capabilities.Oracles play a crucial role in providing real-time data for DeFi applications.Reya aims to be the number one DEX in the market.The DEX market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.Incentive mechanisms like points and staking are vital for user engagement.Community involvement is essential for the growth of Reya.Reya's unique features set it apart from other DEXs.The future of trading includes more efficient capital use and liquidity.It's never too late to join the Reya platform.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Reya and Its Purpose03:12 The Architecture of Reya: Speed and Decentralization06:08 Target Audiences: Traders and Their Needs09:10 Innovative Revenue Models and Fee Structures12:07 Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement15:09 Competitive Positioning in the Perp DEX Market18:01 Future Innovations and Developer Education20:55 Building for New Traders and Partnerships27:22 Trading Without Fees: A Game Changer28:40 Enshrining Functionality in Ethereum31:22 The Role of Oracles in DeFi33:20 Aiming for the Top: Future of DEXs39:10 Incentive Mechanisms: Points and Staking44:40 Building a Thriving CommunityFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/14/26 • 48:51

SummaryIn this conversation, Nick Emmons, founder and CEO of Allora Labs, discusses the Allora Network with Peter Abilla, a decentralized platform aimed at improving machine learning through collaboration among various AI models. He explains the structure of the network, the roles of different participants, and the importance of data in AI model development. Emmons also highlights the incentives for network participants, the go-to-market strategy, and the potential impact of Allora on the AI and crypto industries. The discussion emphasizes the need for community involvement and the future of decentralized AI.TakeawaysAllora Network aims to decentralize AI model coordination.The transition from the information age to the intelligence age is crucial.Decentralized AI can serve as a public good.The network allows for collaboration among various AI models.Incentives are based on performance and accuracy of predictions.Application developers can focus on objectives rather than models.The go-to-market strategy targets the DeFi sector.Abstraction of crypto complexities is essential for AI developers.Community involvement is vital for the growth of Allora.Non-developers can contribute to the Allora community in various ways.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Allora Network02:47 The Philosophy Behind Allora06:02 Understanding the Model Coordination Network08:55 Roles Within the Allora Network12:06 The Importance of Feedback Loops15:01 Topics vs. Domains in AI18:01 Nick Emmons' Background and Journey20:52 Data Sources for Inference Workers24:00 Optimizing Efficiency in Data Systems26:03 Incentives in the Allora Network27:06 The Role of Application Developers29:03 Innovative Use Cases in DeFi32:06 Exploring Perpetual Exchanges36:02 Go-to-Market Strategy for Allora39:58 Abstracting Crypto for Model Developers43:09 Current Status and Future Roadmap45:00 Disruption in the AI Model Market46:53 Community Engagement Beyond DevelopersFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/12/26 • 50:55

SummaryIn this conversation, Varun, co-founder of Hibachi.xyz, discusses with Peter Abilla the innovative features and technical aspects of their decentralized trading platform. He emphasizes the importance of privacy in trading, the unique technical stack that supports Hibachi, and the strategies for community engagement and liquidity. Varun also shares insights on the competitive landscape of perpetual trading exchanges and the future roadmap for Hibachi, including user engagement initiatives like the Sparks program.TakeawaysHibachi is a privacy-first decentralized trading platform.The platform uses zero-knowledge proofs for transaction integrity.User feedback is central to Hibachi's product development.Hibachi aims to differentiate itself through speed and privacy.The platform is currently in public beta and iterating based on user feedback.Liquidity is driven by community demand and partnerships with market makers.Innovative user engagement strategies include the Sparks program.Hibachi plans to expand its asset listings based on community requests.The trading experience is designed to be intuitive for both traders and non-traders.Varun believes in healthy competition within the DEX market to drive innovation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hibachi and Varun01:45 Understanding Hibachi's Unique Features05:58 The Technical Stack Behind Hibachi08:20 The Importance of Privacy in Trading12:45 Hibachi's Market Position and Differentiation16:01 Liquidity and Asset Listing Strategies20:10 Marketing Strategies for Trader Engagement22:54 Innovative Features: Sparks and User Engagement25:27 Current Stage and Future Plans for Hibachi26:53 Trader Personas and Market CompetitionFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/7/26 • 37:45

SummaryIn this conversation, Peter Abilla interviews Kevin Kap, co-founder of WCM, a capital-efficient trading venue. They discuss the origin of WCM, the identification of market inefficiencies, and the importance of capital efficiency in trading. Kevin explains the role of their unique risk engine, the integration of spot, perps, and lending, and how WCM aims to educate users and simplify trading strategies. They also touch on the significance of building on MegaETH and the collaboration with RedStone Oracle, as well as the current stage of WCM and future plans for user engagement.TakeawaysWCM aims to create a capital-efficient trading venue for users.The risk engine is designed to minimize liquidation risks.User education is crucial for understanding new trading strategies.WCM integrates spot, perps, and lending into one platform.The team is focused on gathering user feedback through interviews.Building on MegaETH allows for lower gas costs and faster transactions.WCM is positioned as a new category in trading, combining exchange and prime brokerage features.The platform is currently in a private alpha stage, with plans for user onboarding.RedStone Oracle plays a vital role in the functionality of WCM.The goal is to make trading accessible and profitable for all users.Sound bites"It's like a new category.""We need to do user interviews.""We're always looking for feedback."Chapters00:00 Introduction to WCM and Its Origins06:53 Identifying Market Inefficiencies10:28 Understanding Capital Efficiency15:02 The Role of the Risk Engine18:10 WCM: A New Category in Trading21:48 Target Audience and User Experience24:40 The Early Days of Omi and Its Impact25:01 Understanding WCM's Unique Value Proposition27:04 The Journey of Building on MegaEath28:12 Choosing the Right Blockchain: L1 vs L234:13 The Role of Redstone Oracle in WCM36:17 User Interviews: A Key to Product Development40:06 Educating Users on New Trading Concepts41:58 Current Stage of WCM and Future Plans44:51 Engaging with the Community and Getting InvolvedFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

1/5/26 • 48:29

SummaryIn this conversation, Justin from Zeus Network discusses the innovative solutions being developed to bridge Bitcoin and Solana through their programmable library. He highlights the technical challenges faced in cross-chain messaging, the current state of the Zeus Network, and the future plans for expanding into other cryptocurrencies like Litecoin and Dogecoin. The discussion also covers community support, institutional adoption, and the importance of sustainable incentives in building a robust ecosystem.TakeawaysZeus's programmable library abstracts SPD verification from Bitcoin to Solana.Bitcoin's design limitations pose challenges for programmability.The current version of Zeus Network reduces deposit times significantly.Zeus aims to support developers building on its platform.Unlocking idle liquidity from other networks is a key focus.Institutional interest in Bitcoin yield generation is growing.Zeus does not rely on point systems for user incentives.The community's support is crucial for Zeus's growth.Future plans include launching a Bitcoin DEX on Solana.Justin's journey into crypto began with a VPN business in 2015.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zulu's Programmable Library (ZPLS)02:49 Technical Challenges in Cross-Chain Messaging05:17 Current State and Future of Zeus Network08:23 Expanding Beyond Bitcoin: Future Networks10:33 Unlocking Idle Liquidity in DeFi12:29 Institutional Adoption and Custody Solutions19:15 Engagement with Bitcoin Miners and Whales21:16 Technical Challenges with Doge and Litecoin23:08 Sustainable Community Engagement and Incentives25:13 Future Roadmap and Innovations for Zeus NetworkFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/29/25 • 32:18

SummaryIn this conversation, Asaf Nadler, co-founder of Addressable, discusses his journey from military service in the IDF to entrepreneurship in the Web3 marketing space. He highlights the unique challenges of marketing in a blockchain environment, particularly the issue of user anonymity and the need for effective user acquisition strategies. Addressable's innovative approach, including the introduction of the 'cost per wallet' metric, aims to empower marketers by providing actionable insights into user engagement and conversion. Asaf emphasizes the importance of quantifying marketing efforts to secure resources and support within organizations, especially during challenging market conditions. In this conversation, Asaf Nadler discusses the challenges and strategies of marketing in the Web3 space, focusing on user acquisition, the importance of data-driven marketing, and the role of Addressable in helping marketers effectively reach their target audiences. He highlights the complexities of finding Web3 gamers, the significance of understanding user acquisition costs, and the need for awareness and education in crypto marketing. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of marketing narratives and the importance of real user engagement over speculative trends.TakeawaysMilitary service provided a strong network and diverse tech experience.Entrepreneurs from the military often seek a higher purpose in their work.Web3 marketing faces unique challenges due to user anonymity.Addressable aims to solve user acquisition problems in the blockchain space.The 'cost per wallet' metric helps assess the quality of traffic.Marketers need to quantify their impact to secure resources.Understanding user behavior is crucial for effective marketing strategies.The blockchain offers transparency that can be leveraged for marketing insights.Many projects are still in the awareness phase, complicating attribution.Marketers must adapt to the evolving landscape of Web3 marketing. Marketers need to effectively communicate budget allocation for campaigns.Understanding the target audience is crucial for successful marketing.Web3 gaming presents unique challenges in user acquisition.Addressable helps marketers build targeted campaigns using data.Data-driven insights can alleviate marketer's shame about strategy.Awareness of available marketing tools is lacking in the crypto space.User acquisition costs need to be clearly defined and understood.The bias towards organic growth can hinder effective marketing strategies.Mindshare and narrative play a significant role in crypto marketing.Addressable aims to connect real users with meaningful products.Chapters00:00 From Military Service to Entrepreneurship08:47 Addressable's Unique Approach to User Acquisition17:51 Understanding Cost Per Wallet Metric23:00 Empowering Marketers in the Crypto Space30:11 Case Study: Immutable and Web3 Gaming40:56 Awareness and Education in Crypto Marketing46:09 Mindshare and Narrative in Marketing52:15 Addressable's Role in Real User EngagementFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/22/25 • 54:35

SummaryIn this conversation, Emanuele Franciani, founder of Dusk, shares his journey into the world of crypto and blockchain, detailing his background in avionics and how it influenced his approach to developing Dusk. He discusses the vision behind Dusk, focusing on the importance of privacy and compliance in blockchain technology, and how Dusk aims to create a financial market infrastructure that addresses these needs. Emanuele also highlights the unique transaction model of Dusk and the partnerships formed to navigate regulatory landscapes, emphasizing the importance of education in compliance. In this conversation, Emanuele discusses the advancements and regulatory compliance of Dusk Network, emphasizing its unique position in the blockchain space. He highlights the importance of building relationships with regulated entities and the challenges faced by other protocols. Emanuele also explains how the Dusk token can accrue value through its integration with financial market infrastructure and partnerships, paving the way for future growth and opportunities.TakeawaysEmanuele's journey into crypto began with skepticism but evolved into a passion.Dusk was founded to address privacy and compliance in blockchain.The financial market infrastructure is crucial for trading and settlement processes.Lessons from avionics taught Emanuele about consensus and reliability.Dusk's unique transaction model enhances privacy and compliance.Compliance in blockchain requires understanding specific regulations.Partnerships with regulated entities are vital for Dusk's success.Education is key when engaging with regulators and acquiring licenses.Dusk aims to be a general-purpose, privacy-friendly layer one blockchain.The future of Dusk includes further innovations and regulatory compliance. Dusk has received regulatory clearance to operate a stock exchange.Emanuele serves as both CEO of Dusk and CTO of MPEX.Dusk aims to integrate financial market infrastructure on the blockchain.Regulatory compliance is crucial for partnerships with financial institutions.User retention is a challenge for crypto protocols due to market volatility.Dusk's relationship with MPEX enhances its credibility and access to institutions.The Dusk token will accrue value through transaction fees and network participation.Dusk aims to decentralize financial market infrastructure for broader access.Partnerships with regulated entities are key to Dusk's strategy.Dusk is positioned to lead in the tokenization of real-world assets.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Emanuele Franciani and Dusk06:02 The Birth of Dusk and Its Vision11:50 Lessons from Avionics Applied to Blockchain18:01 Privacy and Compliance in Dusk23:48 Dusk's Unique Transaction Model30:14 Future Prospects and Innovations for Dusk35:50 The Importance of User Base and Institutional Relationships51:32 Value Accrual of the Dusk Token and Future ProspectsFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/17/25 • 65:27

SummaryIn this conversation, Harry Horsfall, co-founder and CEO of Flight3, shares his insights on the current state of the crypto market, the challenges and opportunities in African crypto markets, and the regulatory landscape affecting the industry. He discusses his journey into crypto, the importance of community building, and how Flight3 serves various crypto projects through marketing and support. The conversation highlights the contrast between market sentiment and regulatory progress, as well as the innovative Super Team model for developer engagement in the Solana ecosystem. In this conversation, Harry discusses the evolving landscape of Web3 marketing, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, the challenges of navigating various social media channels, and the significance of building strong ambassador programs. He highlights the need for a clear understanding of the Web3 funnel and product market fit, while sharing insights from successful case studies in the industry. The conversation concludes with advice on authenticity in marketing strategies.TakeawaysThe crypto market is currently experiencing irrational negativity despite positive growth.Banking the unbanked presents significant opportunities in Africa.Capital controls in African countries hinder financial freedom.The SEC's loss against Ripple is a bullish sign for the industry.Mainstream mentions of Bitcoin are at an all-time low despite its price increase.Community building in crypto requires genuine engagement and reciprocity.The Super Team model is effective for fostering developer communities in Solana.Agencies can provide valuable expertise, but in-house teams are essential for success.The regulatory landscape is evolving positively for crypto in the US.Understanding local markets is crucial for successful crypto projects.  Engaging communities is crucial in Web3 marketing.Different channels require tailored content strategies.Building ambassador programs takes time and effort.Understanding the Web3 funnel is complex but essential.Product market fit is about solving real problems.Successful projects often come with an MVP or prototype.Sports sponsorships can effectively reach crypto-curious audiences.Authenticity in marketing is key to success.Re-engagement strategies are vital for retaining users.Community feedback is essential for product development.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Harry Horsfall and Flight301:00 Harry's Journey into Crypto and Market Insights05:31 Challenges and Opportunities in African Crypto Markets09:59 Regulatory Landscape and Market Sentiment in Crypto15:41 Overview of Flight3 and Its Services19:38 Building Developer Communities: The Super Team Model27:26 Engaging Communities in Web330:36 Navigating Marketing Channels32:33 Building Strong Ambassador Programs35:57 Understanding the Web3 Funnel40:35 Defining Product Market Fit43:17 Case Studies: Success Stories in Web3Follow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/15/25 • 52:55

SummaryIn this conversation, Jay Kurahashi-Sofue, CMO of Eco Protocol, shares his journey from the music industry to the world of crypto marketing. He discusses his experiences at Ogilvy, the challenges of scaling marketing teams in the crypto space, and the importance of emotional messaging in technical industries. Jay also highlights the brand strategy behind Avalanche and introduces Eco Protocol, emphasizing its role in the stablecoin market. In this conversation, Jay Kurahashi-Sofue discusses the integration of middleware in enhancing user experience, the evolution and challenges faced by stablecoins, and the strategic development of the Eco Protocol. He emphasizes the importance of digital marketing and community engagement in building a successful brand, while also addressing the critical need for robust infrastructure to support stablecoin adoption. The conversation concludes with insights on community building and developer engagement as essential components for the future of Eco.Takeaways— Jay's journey into crypto began with a music publication.  — He found passion in digital marketing through trial and error.  — At Ogilvy, he learned the importance of brand strategy.  — Emotional messaging is often overlooked in crypto marketing.  — Avalanche's brand strategy focused on transaction finality.  — Eco Protocol acts as middleware for stablecoin integration.  — The stablecoin market is vast with clear product market fit.  — Building a brand requires understanding the target audience.  — Marketing teams in crypto need to scale efficiently.  — Jay emphasizes the need for distinct strategies for each vertical.  — User experience is crucial for the adoption of blockchain applications.  — Middleware can simplify the integration process for developers.  — Stablecoins have evolved significantly since their inception.  — The Eco Protocol aims to streamline transactions on-chain.  — Building a strong brand strategy is essential for market success.  — Digital marketing strategies should focus on optimizing content for search engines.  — Community engagement is vital for attracting developers and users.  — Infrastructure must be prioritized to support stablecoin growth.  — Testing copy and messaging is important for effective communication.  — The Eco team is focused on creating a vibrant developer community.Chapters(00:00) Jay Kurahashi-Sofue's Journey into Crypto  (04:11) Scaling Marketing Teams in Crypto  (08:48) Lessons from Ogilvy: Messaging and Brand Strategy  (12:42) Emotional Messaging in Technical Industries  (16:18) Building the Avalanche Brand  (24:44) Introducing Eco Protocol and Its Market Positioning  (27:49) User Experience and Middleware Integration  (30:00) The Evolution and Challenges of Stablecoins  (33:06) Building the Eco Protocol and Brand Strategy  (39:34) Digital Marketing Strategy and Community Engagement  (46:57) The Importance of Infrastructure in Stablecoin Adoption  (52:20) Community Building and Developer EngagementFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/10/25 • 57:17

SummaryIn this conversation, Jim discusses his journey with Catalyst Systems, the challenges of interoperability in the crypto space, and the importance of customer development. He reflects on the ease of launching Layer 2 solutions, the need for differentiation, and the pivot towards focusing on alternative virtual machines (VMs) to better serve the market. Jim emphasizes the significance of understanding user needs and building products that cater to a broader audience rather than just the crypto enthusiasts. In this conversation, Jim discusses the evolution of Catalyst and its rebranding to focus on alt-VMs, the importance of storytelling in product development, and the personal journey of vulnerability as a founder. He shares insights on the acquisition of Catalyst by LiFi, the dynamics of customer segments in interoperability protocols, and the future directions for both Catalyst and LiFi.TakeawaysJim's journey with Catalyst Systems began with a focus on interoperability.The ease of launching Layer 2 solutions has led to market noise.Customer development is crucial for understanding user needs.Building for the lay person can lead to significant market opportunities.The pivot towards alternative VMs was driven by market research.Interoperability is often perceived as a solved problem in EVM chains.Differentiation in the crypto space is challenging due to similar offerings.Jim emphasizes the importance of self-reflection in entrepreneurship.The Karen and Darrell effect highlights the gap between enthusiasts and general users.Understanding the broader market context is essential for product development. The rebranding of Catalyst was essential for market differentiation.The journey to alt-VMs involved significant learning and adaptation.Storytelling is a critical component in product marketing and growth.Vulnerability as a founder can enhance personal and brand authenticity.The acquisition by LiFi was a strategic move that leveraged Catalyst's strengths.Understanding customer segments is vital for product success in interoperability.The future of Catalyst involves innovative solutions for cross-chain connections.Jim's mindset evolved from a purely intellectual founder to a more pragmatic one.The importance of community in transitioning to a new brand.The integration of Catalyst into LiFi aims to solve significant industry challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jim and LiFi Protocol01:55 The Journey of Catalyst Systems05:46 Differentiation in Interoperability09:54 Market Insights on Layer 2 Launches13:56 The Shift in Focus for Catalyst18:08 Customer Development and Market Research22:13 Building for the Lay Person25:53 The Pivot to Alt VMs32:30 Rebranding and Market Positioning34:49 The Journey to Alt-VMs39:00 The Importance of Storytelling in Product Development43:40 Navigating Vulnerability as a Founder44:10 The Acquisition of Catalyst by LiFi50:15 Understanding Customer Segments in Interoperability57:54 Future Directions for Catalyst and LiFiFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/8/25 • 62:23

SummaryIn this episode of Block by Block, Peter Abilla sits down with Erbil Karaman, co-founder of Huma Finance, to unpack PayFi, income-backed DeFi, and the broken state of cross-border payments. Erbil explains how PayFi uses blockchain and stablecoins to give merchants instant access to cash flows that today are trapped in legacy rails for days or even weeks. They dig into remittances, trillions of dollars locked in pre-funded bank accounts, and how Huma plugs DeFi liquidity into real-world payment flows. The conversation covers Huma’s partnerships, investor perspective, token design, privacy and compliance, and what it will take to scale PayFi into a global financial network.Takeaways— Huma Finance positions itself as the first PayFi network, focused on income-backed DeFi for real-world payments.— PayFi uses blockchain and stablecoins to accelerate global payments and free up trapped liquidity.— Traditional remittance rails leave trillions of dollars idle in pre-funded accounts and are slow and expensive.— Huma’s model gives merchants and platforms near-instant access to their incoming cash flows.— The team integrates with established partners for cross-border and last-mile payout coverage.— Liquidity is sourced by borrowing from DeFi, then routed into real-world transaction flows.— Building strong local and regional partnerships is core to solving last-mile delivery of funds.— A diverse investor base signals confidence in Huma’s category and long-term vision.— Token design is used to align incentives between liquidity providers, partners, and users.— Privacy, KYC, and regulatory compliance are treated as first-class requirements, not afterthoughts.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction to Huma Finance and PayFi00:04:32 Understanding PayFi and Its Use Cases00:10:20 The Liquidity Challenge in Traditional Systems00:14:52 The Shift from Traditional Banking to DeFi00:20:41 Building Partnerships for Last-Mile Solutions00:25:24 Navigating the Complexities of Huma Finance00:28:25 Scaling Infrastructure and Predictability00:29:02 Go-to-Market Strategy and Partnerships00:32:16 Privacy in Blockchain Transactions00:35:35 KYC and Compliance in Remittance00:37:01 Revenue Models and Liquidity Management00:44:23 Tokenomics and Community Engagement00:51:00 Future Vision for Huma FinanceFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/5/25 • 56:17

In this conversation, Michael Heinrich discusses his journey into the crypto space and the founding of 0G (Zero Gravity), the first AI Layer 1 blockchain. He elaborates on the unique features of 0G, including its developer-friendly ecosystem, key infrastructure components, and the importance of community engagement. Michael also addresses challenges related to data availability and scalability, blockchain marketing with Peter Abilla, as well as strategies for growth and building a vibrant community around 0G. The conversation highlights the significance of verifiability in AI and concludes with insights on the recent Kaito campaign and its impact on brand awareness.TakeawaysMichael Heinrich's journey into crypto began with his interest in Bitcoin during graduate school.Zero G aims to be the first AI Layer 1 blockchain, designed specifically for on-chain AI applications.The team behind Zero G has strong backgrounds in computer science and engineering.Zero G offers a one-stop shop experience for developers transitioning from Web2 to Web3.Community engagement is crucial for the success of Zero G, with a focus on mission alignment.Data availability and scalability are key challenges that Zero G is addressing.The Zero G ecosystem includes a service marketplace for various AI applications.Michael emphasizes the importance of building unique experiences for users on Zero G.The Kaito campaign was a significant success for Zero G, boosting community involvement.Verifiability in AI is a major concern, and Zero G is exploring practical solutions. Timeline00:00 Introduction and Background03:02 The Birth of 0G05:53 Understanding AI Layer 1 and Zero G's Unique Position14:17 Key Components of Zero G's Ecosystem25:16 Growth Strategies and Mainnet Launch27:02 Building on Zero G: Ecosystem and Support29:58 Strategic Approaches to Application Development32:42 Community Engagement and Growth Strategies34:58 The Zero G Panda: A Fun Mascot Story36:53 Community Building: From Curiosity to Engagement39:08 Visionary Thinking: Trust and AI41:09 Data Verifiability: Approaches and Challenges43:47 The Kaito Campaign: Community Rallying and Growth48:03 Future Goals: Leveraging the Kaito LeaderboardFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/4/25 • 45:44

SummaryIn this conversation, Mihir Kulkarni from Spectral Labs discusses his journey in the Web3 space, particularly his experiences at Coinbase and how they shaped his current role. He delves into the concept of AI agents in the crypto industry, emphasizing their utility and potential to enhance user experience. The discussion covers the development of Spectral Labs' products, including the collaborative nature of autonomous agents and the importance of trust in their operations. Kulkarni also explains the distinction between their products, Syntax for retail users and Lux for developers, and the collaborative ecosystem of AI agents. In this conversation, Mihir Kulkarni discusses the evolution of AI workflows, blockchain marketing with Peter Abilla, the importance of community engagement in crypto projects, and the need for self-awareness within the industry. He emphasizes the significance of user experience and the future of multi-agent technology, highlighting how these elements can drive innovation and accessibility in the crypto space.Takeaways— Mihir Kulkarni’s background in crypto began in 2017.— His experience at Coinbase was pivotal for his current role.— AI agents are designed to perform useful tasks in crypto.— The complexity of crypto transactions can be simplified by AI.— Spectral Labs focuses on creating user-friendly AI solutions.— Trust in AI agents is crucial for user adoption.— The future of agents includes ownership and profit-sharing models.— Syntax is aimed at retail users, while Lux targets developers.— Collaboration among AI agents can enhance decision-making.— AI agents are not competitors but collaborators in the ecosystem. Negotiation in AI workflows can enhance collaboration.— Community involvement is crucial for crypto project success.— Self-awareness in the crypto industry can lead to growth.— User experience should be prioritized in product design.— Multi-agent technology will shape the future of crypto applications.— Building for non-technical users is essential for adoption.— The crypto industry often underestimates its potential audience.— Bold decision-making is necessary for innovative product development.— AI can assist in parallel processing of ideas for content creation.— The future of crypto lies in simplifying user interactions.Chapters(00:00) Mihir Kulkarni’s Journey in Web3 and Coinbase(03:03) Introduction to Spectral Labs and AI Agents(06:11) The Utility of AI Agents in Crypto(09:03) Spectral Labs Product Overview and Development(12:01) Building Autonomous Agents and Community Collaboration(15:06) The Future of Agent Ownership and Trust(17:56) Syntax and Lux: Products for Retail and Developers(20:49) Collaboration Among AI Agents(23:49) The Role of Trust in AI Agent Operations(30:44) Negotiation and Collaboration in AI Workflows(34:34) Building Community in Crypto Projects(39:04) Self-Awareness and Industry Growth(43:41) The Future of User Experience in Crypto(47:06) Innovations in Multi-Agent TechnologyFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/3/25 • 54:28

SummaryIn this Block by Block episode, Peter Abilla sits down with Kony, CEO and co-founder of Gaib, to unpack how GPU tokenization can create real yield at the intersection of AI, DeFi and zero-knowledge crypto. Kony explains how his mix of finance, AI engineering and running an actual cloud business led him to see a gap: AI cloud providers have huge demand for GPUs but limited access to private credit, while crypto investors are starved for sustainable, cash flow–backed yield.Gaib steps into that gap by financing enterprise-grade GPU deployments, securing their cash flows, and wrapping both into tokenized products that anyone can buy on-chain. Kony walks through their two-stage due diligence, risk controls, and how they work with cloud partners, OEMs and third-party custodians to verify hardware and revenue. The conversation covers Gaib’s $2B+ pipeline, DeFi integrations like Pendle’s PT/YT structures, and the long-term plan to bridge Web2 capital markets and Web3, starting with GPUs and eventually expanding into other real-world, productive assets.Takeaways— Kony blends finance, AI engineering and cloud-operator experience, which shapes how Gaib designs GPU-backed yield products.— Gaib’s core mission is to deliver real yield in crypto, funded by AI infrastructure revenues instead of token emissions.— The team treats GPUs and their cash flows as a new on-chain asset class that can be structured, financed and traded.— There is a big market gap: many AI cloud providers cannot tap traditional private credit, despite strong demand for their GPUs.— Gaib pre-finances enterprise-grade GPUs, then gets repaid from the cloud provider’s customer revenues over time.— A strict, two-stage due diligence process screens partners on company data, clients, revenues, hardware and security.— Gaib leverages industry networks, OEM/ODM relationships and third-party custodians to verify that GPUs exist and stay where they should.— Current integrations like Pendle let investors split principal and yield, and more DeFi money markets are planned.— The GPU pipeline already exceeds 2 billion dollars in assets, still a tiny share of a rapidly growing AI compute market.— Long term, Gaib wants to bridge TradFi and Web3 and extend the same model to other real-world, revenue-producing assets.KeywordsGaib,GPU tokenization,AI infrastructure,real yield,DeFi,Kony,Block by Block podcast,enterprise GPUs,AI compute,Web3,TradFi,private credit,tokenized real world assets,Pendle Finance,PT YT structure,AI cloud providers,structured finance,cash flow backed tokens,zero knowledge cryptography,AI DeFiChapters00:00:00 Introduction to Gaib, Kony’s Background and the AI x DeFi Opportunity00:05:56 Why Crypto Needs Real Yield and How GPU Tokenization Fills the Gap00:12:02 Financing Models for GPU Acquisition and Gaib’s Credit Structure00:17:52 Due Diligence, Risk Management and the Scale of AI GPU Demand00:23:57 Gaib’s DeFi Integrations, TradFi Bridge and Expansion Beyond GPUsFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/2/25 • 43:08

SummaryIn this conversation, Naruto, a Developer Relations professional at Avail, discusses the challenges and strategies of marketing to developers in the crypto space. He shares insights on how he transitioned from a software engineer to a DevRel role, the importance of understanding different types of developers, and the effectiveness of hackathons and hacker houses in attracting serious talent. Naruto emphasizes the need for a strong personal brand and collaborative marketing efforts with partners to reach the right audience. In this conversation, Naruto discusses the importance of building relationships with developers through individual conversations and the support provided to them in their projects. He emphasizes the cautious approach to funding and grants, focusing on genuine builders rather than grant seekers. The conversation also highlights the significance of vetting developers through due diligence, the competitive landscape of developer solutions, and the critical role of customer service in retaining developers. Naruto shares insights on the structure of developer relations within his organization and the strategies for creating content that resonates with developers.TakeawaysNaruto got into crypto in 2017 and became a software engineer.Avail is a data availability layer that aims to improve UX and liquidity.Attracting developers is challenging due to the technical nature of Avail's products.Hackathons are not the best way to find serious developers.Hacker houses provide focused environments for developers to build.Building a personal brand on Twitter is crucial for DevRel.Collaborating with partners helps in reaching a wider developer audience.Due diligence is essential when selecting participants for hacker houses.Identifying long-term builders is more valuable than short-term bounty hunters.Engaging with developers through Discord and direct feedback is important. Building relationships with developers is crucial for success.Cautious funding strategies are essential to avoid grant seekers.Vetting developers requires a mix of subjective and objective assessments.Customer service plays a vital role in developer retention.Developer relations should ideally sit under product or engineering.Creating timely and relevant content attracts developers.Support for developers includes operational logistics and introductions to investors.The developer experience is critical for ecosystem loyalty.Engaging with the developer community fosters trust and collaboration.The current market presents opportunities for builders to innovate.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Developer Relations in Crypto03:03 Understanding Avail and Its Products05:58 Attracting Developers to Avail08:47 The Role of Hackathons and Hacker Houses11:59 Identifying Serious Developers14:53 Marketing Strategies for Hacker Houses17:55 Building a Personal Brand in Developer Relations27:59 Building Relationships Through Individual Conversations28:54 Funding and Support for Developer Projects30:29 The Importance of Developer Support31:40 Vetting Developers: The Due Diligence Process36:50 Differentiating Avail in a Competitive Market41:11 The Role of Customer Service in Developer Retention43:27 The Structure of Developer RelatiFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

12/1/25 • 55:45

SummaryShad from Rare Minds walks through how crypto marketing has changed and why most teams are still stuck in old playbooks. He explains the Giga Method as a way to connect Web2-style rigor with Web3-native mechanics, so campaigns are built on real incentives and game design, not just hype. Throughout the conversation he pushes on three pillars: smart mechanism design, serious distribution, and ongoing education for both founders and marketers. He also calls out how noisy the market has become, why pure attention metrics are a trap, and how the industry is shifting toward revenue, business ownership, and long-term thinking instead of short-lived pump cycles.Takeaways— The Giga Method is a framework for connecting proven Web2 tactics with Web3-native mechanics.— Mechanism design, not just messaging, often decides whether a crypto project works or fails.— Distribution should be treated as table stakes, built into the product and strategy from day one.— Chasing attention for its own sake is misleading; durable value and outcomes matter more.— Marketers coming into crypto need structured education to understand mechanisms, not only narratives.— Long time horizons and patience are critical for building anything meaningful in crypto.— The space is maturing from “eyeballs and impressions” to a revenue and P&L-focused mindset.— Building real relationships with talent creates an alumni network that compounds over time.— Knowing the history of crypto cycles helps you avoid repeating old mistakes and fads.— The next wave of crypto marketing will center on owning real businesses and cash flows, not just tokens.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Crypto Marketing and Rare Minds(02:34) The Evolution of Rare Minds and the Giga Method(05:28) The Importance of Education in Crypto Marketing(08:11) Building Relationships and Alumni Networks(11:09) Understanding the Giga Method(13:59) Mechanisms, Narratives, and Distribution in Crypto(17:04) Attention vs Value in Crypto Marketing(19:44) The Role of Community and Hidden Gems(22:38) Conclusion and Future of Crypto Marketing(24:01) Founders’ Growth Strategies(24:38) Research and Feedback in Web3(25:58) Long-Term Growth and Patience in Crypto(28:32) Learning from Crypto History(29:36) The Importance of Mechanism Design(32:19) Critique of Attention Metrics in Crypto(39:20) Kaito’s Business Model and Market Dynamics(43:26) The Revenue Meta and Industry MaturityFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/26/25 • 52:34

SummaryIn this conversation, Luis Bezenberger discusses Shutter Network, an encryption as a service mechanism designed to provide decentralized encryption and decryption. He explains the importance of Shutter Network in protecting against MEV (maximal extractable value) and the challenges faced in the Ethereum transaction supply chain. The discussion covers the integration of Shutter Network with various chains, web3 Marketing with Peter Abilla, the customer journey, and potential applications in gaming. Luis also addresses marketing challenges and the need for better user education regarding the benefits of Shutter Network.TakeawaysShutter Network provides encryption as a service for decentralized applications.The primary use case is to protect against MEV and front-running.Integration with layer 2 chains is essential for Shutter's functionality.The Ethereum transaction supply chain has centralization issues that Shutter aims to address.User education is crucial for understanding the value of Shutter Network.Shutter Network can enhance user experience in gaming applications.The marketing challenge lies in reaching end users who benefit from Shutter's services.MEV is a significant issue in crypto that can lead to financial losses for users.The sealed envelope analogy helps explain Shutter's value proposition.Shutter Network aims to level the playing field in crypto transactions.Sound bites"Shutter Network is an encryption as a service mechanism.""The Ethereum transaction supply chain is broken.""Mempool encryption could offer an alternative to this.""We can only prevent front running MEV.""MEV is maximal extractable value.""Front running is bad because people lose money.""The sealed envelope visual is relatable.""We need more simple educational materials.""Thank you for identifying our challenges."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Luis Bezenberger and Shutter Network01:44 Understanding Shutter Network: Encryption as a Service04:34 Customer Journey: How Shutter Fits in Transactions06:30 Integration with Layer 2 Chains and Applications12:37 The Broken Ethereum Transaction Supply Chain16:22 Feedback from Integrated Chains18:18 Marketing Challenges and User Awareness25:38 Potential Applications in Gaming31:07 Branding and Target Audience of Shutter Network35:35 Explaining MEV and Shutter's Role in Mitigation41:35 The Sealed Envelope: Visualizing Shutter's Value PropositionFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/25/25 • 46:32

SummaryLarry Smoove from Drake Exchange breaks down how Drake is positioning itself as the main trading venue on Monad, with a focus on serious traders who still want a smooth, approachable experience. He explains how flexible collateral, smart strategy design, and tight integration with RedStone’s OEV tools help make liquidations fairer, margin more accurate, and trading feel less stressful. Throughout the conversation, he comes back to a simple lens: treat crypto protocols like real businesses that care about revenue, user experience, and long-term sustainability, not just short-term ponzinomics.Takeaways— Drake Exchange wants to become the central clearing house and core perp venue for the Monad ecosystem.— Traders can use a wide range of assets as collateral, which makes capital more efficient and positions easier to manage.— The team is building “packaged” and automated strategies so users can access advanced trades without needing to wire it all together themselves.— Education, clear UX, and sensible defaults are core to onboarding newer or less technical traders.— RedStone integration improves margin calculations and price feeds, especially when both collateral and traded assets are volatile.— Liquidation design is focused on keeping more value inside the protocol, instead of leaking it to external liquidators.— Drake is optimized for advanced traders but intentionally keeps the interface and flows friendly for everyone.— Mainnet launch will lean on deep liquidity and multiple opportunities for users to deploy capital from day one.— Close, responsive collaboration between Drake, RedStone, and other partners is a key part of the product’s speed and quality.— Framing protocols as businesses shifts focus to sustainable revenue, better UX, and long-term product thinking.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction to Drake Exchange00:02:52 Innovative Trading Strategies and User Experience00:07:28 Integration with Redstone and OEV Solutions00:10:05 Building a Business in Crypto00:13:47 Road to Mainnet LaunchFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/24/25 • 16:21

In this conversation, Yannick Schrade, co-founder and CEO of Arcium, discusses the inception of Arcium, its focus on encrypted computing, and the choice of the Solana ecosystem. He elaborates on the unique features of Arcium, including its ability to perform computations on encrypted data without decryption, the advantages of multi-party computation over trusted execution environments, and the diverse applications of Arcium's technology across various industries. Schrade also shares insights on the recent acquisition of Infer and how it enhances Arcium's offerings, crypto marketing with Peter Abilla, emphasizing the importance of privacy in decentralized AI. In this conversation, Yannik Schrade from Arcium discusses the capabilities of their platform, focusing on privacy in AI and healthcare, the importance of decentralized compliance, and the evolution of their brand. He emphasizes the need for user-friendly privacy solutions and the roadmap leading to their public testnet and mainnet launch.Takeaways— Arcium is an encrypted supercomputer enabling secure computations.— The choice of Solana was driven by its composability and developer support.— Hacker houses foster collaboration and rapid development in the Solana ecosystem.— Arcium allows computations on encrypted data, enhancing privacy.— Multi-party computation eliminates single points of failure in data processing.— Arcium targets various customers, including dApps and traditional businesses.— The acquisition of Infer strengthens Arcium’s capabilities in privacy-preserving AI.— Privacy 2.0 represents a shift in how data is processed securely.— Arcium’s technology can monetize data while maintaining confidentiality.— Decentralized AI requires privacy to ensure economic incentives. Arcium supports various applications across different chains.— The platform is designed for confidential computations.— Privacy in AI and healthcare is a growing concern.— Individuals want control over their data.— Privacy 2.0 enhances system capabilities through encrypted computing.— Onboarding developers is crucial for community growth.— The roadmap includes a public testnet and mainnet launch.— Rebranding reflects the evolution of Arcium’s mission.— Decentralized privacy is essential for user trust.— Privacy should be easy and integrated into everyday applications.Timeline(00:00) Introduction to Arcium and Its Founders  (02:57) Choosing the Solana Ecosystem  (06:12) The Power of Solana Hacker Houses  (09:13) Understanding Arcium: The Encrypted Supercomputer  (11:54) Privacy 2.0: Computation on Encrypted Data  (15:06) Trade-offs Between MPC and Trusted Execution Environments  (17:58) Target Customers and Applications of Arcium  (21:14) Acquisition of Infer and Integration into Arcium  (23:57) Future of Arcium and Its Chain Agnosticism  (30:52) Introduction to Arcium's Capabilities  (32:42) Exploring Use Cases: Privacy in AI and Healthcare  (36:33) Privacy 2.0: Enhancing Systems with Encrypted Computing  (39:32) Onboarding Developers and Non-Technical Community Members  (44:26) Arcium's Roadmap: From Testnet to Mainnet  (47:23) The Evolution of Arcium: Rebranding and Future Vision  (53:21) The Importance of Decentralized Privacy and ComplianceFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/24/25 • 57:44

SummarySamantha Yap, founder of Yap Global, walks through how she built one of the first crypto-native PR agencies and what good communications actually looks like in this industry. She explains why storytelling and trust are the real currency in a skeptical, noisy crypto environment, and how to translate complex, technical ideas into narratives that feel human and relatable. Samantha digs into the craft of asking sharp questions, shaping narratives, and using PR to educate rather than just hype.She also breaks down the relationship between PR, media, and influencers, why journalistic integrity matters, and how to manage client expectations when you can never guarantee coverage. Using the Bybit hack as a case study, she shows what effective crisis communication looks like, when teams should bring in a PR agency, and why PR works best as a long-term, relationship-driven game rather than a quick fix, and other interesting takes on crypto marketing public relations with Peter Abilla.Takeaways— Samantha Yap shares her journey building Yap Global as a crypto-native PR agency.— Yap Global focuses on storytelling as the primary way to build trust in a skeptical crypto market.— Trust is fragile in crypto, so clear, honest communication is a competitive advantage.— Storytelling helps technical founders translate complex concepts into something real for normal people.— Asking the right questions is how you uncover the human story behind a protocol or product.— Narratives sit above individual announcements and shape how a project is perceived over time.— PR can significantly influence whether a crypto project is understood, trusted, or ignored.— Effective communication is key to educating audiences on why a technology matters.— Cutting through the noise in crypto requires a strategic, consistent PR approach.— Strong PR work depends on building deep, long-term relationships with clients.— PR and influencer strategies can complement each other when they share the same narrative and guardrails.— Respect for journalistic integrity and ethics is central to sustainable media relationships.— PR agencies should operate as an extension of the internal comms or marketing team, not a bolt-on.— Relationships with journalists are built over years, not through one-off pitches.— Client expectations need to be managed around what PR can and cannot control.— Timing is critical when bringing in a PR agency, especially around launches or crises.— A strong marketing or communications manager helps teams get maximum value from an agency.— PR is a long game that compounds through consistency, credibility, and relationships.— The Bybit hack response shows how thoughtful crisis PR can protect reputation in difficult moments.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Yap Global00:03:03 Building Trust in the Crypto Space00:05:49 Crafting Relatable Stories from Technical Concepts00:09:02 The Art of Asking the Right Questions00:12:01 Understanding Narratives and Their Impact00:14:46 The Importance of PR in Shaping Perceptions00:18:04 Navigating the Noise in Crypto Communications00:30:43 Crafting Compelling News Stories00:31:09 Influencer Collaboration and PR Strategies00:35:29 Understanding the PR Process00:41:26 Managing Client EFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/22/25 • 54:35

SummaryIn this conversation, Josie Leung from Milky Way shares her journey from traditional Web2 roles to the crypto space, discussing her experiences at LinkedIn and Crypto.com. She emphasizes the importance of understanding both technical and business aspects in product development. The discussion also explores the potential of LinkedIn as a marketing channel for crypto, the unique features of Milky Way, and the collaborative nature of the modular ecosystem. In this conversation, crypto marketing with Peter Abilla, Josie discusses the innovative approaches of Milky Way in the blockchain space, focusing on collaborative security, user-centric product development, and the importance of community. She highlights the significance of the modular ecosystem and shares insights on the long-term vision of integrating blockchain technology into real-world applications. The discussion also touches on the brand's fun and engaging identity, as well as the implications of autonomous agents in the future of blockchain interactions.TakeawaysJosie Leung celebrates Lunar New Year and reflects on her background.Transitioning from Web2 to crypto was driven by a desire to build.Experience at LinkedIn provided valuable insights into product development.Understanding both tech and business is crucial for founders.LinkedIn can be an effective marketing channel for crypto projects.Milky Way focuses on providing security in the crypto space.User experience is key to engaging with crypto users.The importance of educating users about risks in staking.Collaboration in the modular ecosystem fosters growth and support.Milky Way aims to connect users with projects they support. Collaborative security allows projects to focus on building their products.User feedback is crucial for product development in the blockchain space.The modular ecosystem offers unique opportunities for innovation.Building during a bear market can lead to unexpected success.Community engagement is essential for long-term growth.A fun brand identity can enhance user experience and engagement.The importance of flexibility in product features to meet market demands.Interoperability is key for the future of blockchain applications.Education is necessary to broaden the understanding of blockchain use cases.Genuine community participation fosters loyalty and trust. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:06 Transitioning to Crypto and Key Learnings06:06 Exploring Marketing Channels: LinkedIn vs. Twitter10:08 Understanding Milky Way: Explaining to Non-Tech Audiences13:54 Milky Way for Web3 Natives: Insights and Comparisons18:03 User Experience and Pain Points in the Ecosystem23:58 Building in the Modular Ecosystem: Collaboration and Growth25:32 Collaborative Security in Blockchain Projects28:13 User-Centric Product Development29:59 Betting on the Modular Ecosystem35:49 Long-Term Vision Beyond Web340:01 Building a Fun and Engaging Brand43:54 Navigating the Future with Autonomous AgentsFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/20/25 • 52:32

SummaryStacy Spikes, co-founder and CEO of MoviePass, talks with Peter Abilla (@shmula, @papiofficial) through his path from the music business into film and why he is now building Mogul. Mogul treats movies a bit like fantasy sports, letting fans predict outcomes, compete with each other, and feel real skin in the game around what gets made and how it performs. We get into how a small group of studios still control most of what reaches audiences, and how blockchain and crypto rails could open that up with more transparency, on-chain data, and new ways to fund projects. Stacy also shares what he has learned about humility, persistence, and building community in entertainment as Mogul tries to kick off a new category of “Daily Fantasy Entertainment.”Takeaways— Stacy Spikes moved from music into film and now uses that experience to build Mogul.— Mogul blends fantasy sports mechanics with film predictions so fans can play, compete, and track their calls.— A handful of major studios still gatekeep which stories and creators reach large audiences.— Blockchain can bring transparent, verifiable data to how movies are financed, distributed, and rewarded.— Decentralized finance creates paths for fans to back films directly instead of relying only on studios.— Mogul is framing a new category: Daily Fantasy Entertainment (DFE) for movies and TV.— Stacy stresses humility, consistency, and hard work as the real long-run edge in entertainment.— Competition, leaderboards, and social features can make following films far more engaging.— Mogul’s design leans into peer-to-peer interaction and global participation, not just U.S. box office.— The next wave of cinema could be driven by community-funded and community-validated projects.Chapters(00:00) Stacy Spikes: A Journey Through Entertainment(11:13) Introducing Mogul: The Future of Film Engagement(27:10) Mogul’s Launch and User Engagement(29:32) Market Dynamics and Data Integration(34:26) Blockchain’s Role in Mogul(43:44) Future of Mogul and Film Industry ImpactFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/19/25 • 54:05

SummaryTim Hafner, co-founder and CEO of OpenServe, walks through what they learned running a hackathon at Berlin Blockchain Week and how it shaped the product. He talks about why Telegram is becoming the default home for crypto apps and why most people still find building usable apps way too hard. Tim shares how OpenServe is trying to give builders a simple way to ship agentic apps that feel like real products, not just demos. Along the way, he digs into supporting developers as entrepreneurs, making good product decisions with messy inputs, and where he thinks AI agents and crypto-native apps are heading next.Takeaways— The Berlin hackathon showed how fast builders can ship creative agentic apps when the tooling gets out of their way, crypto marketing with Peter Abilla.— Telegram is turning into a primary surface for crypto, so great apps need to meet users where they already spend time.— OpenServe wants to remove the complexity of agentic app creation so developers can focus on ideas, not infrastructure.— A clean, opinionated user experience is the difference between a cool demo and something people actually keep using.— Treating developers as founders, not just users, means giving them paths to distribution, revenue, and real products.— Simple decision-making frameworks help teams move through vague requirements and still ship with confidence.— Agentic applications can take over the busywork and let users express intent in natural language instead of clicking through tabs.— Tim’s entry point into crypto came from an early fascination with AI and what agents could unlock for real users.— The future of app development looks like democratized access: anyone with a good idea should be able to launch an agentic app.— OpenServe wants to become a launchpad where hackathon projects can grow into production apps used by real communities.Chapters(00:00) OpenServe intro and Berlin hackathon highlights(02:34) Standout projects and creative ideas from the hackathon(05:06) What OpenServe is building and the core mission(07:56) Rethinking app development through agentic backends(10:32) Why Telegram is becoming the front door for crypto apps(12:52) What users and builders learned from the hackathon UX(15:37) Helping builders think like entrepreneurs, not just coders(18:06) Real-world challenges of building agentic applications(21:43) Using frameworks to guide builders through vague goals(24:32) Blending human workflows with automated agent flows(26:00) The rise of creative agents as a new app primitive(28:11) Agents for content creation and social analytics(30:27) Tim’s path from AI curiosity into crypto building(35:48) What’s next for OpenServe and its community launchpadFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/17/25 • 48:20

SummaryAlon Morch, founder and CEO of SSV Labs, talks about how his time in the Israeli military shaped how he thinks about risk, leadership, and building companies. He explains what SSV Labs actually does: an engineering team behind SSV Network that works on Ethereum’s staking and validator infrastructure so validators can be safer, more flexible, and earn more. The conversation moves through the evolution of crypto, why Ethereum still has the tech edge, and how Layer 2s are really businesses that need to grow, not just “ecosystem projects.” Alon shares his view of “Ethereum at war,” why decentralization still matters but needs real-world execution, and how based applications and extended validator functionality open new revenue paths. He closes with where SSV Labs is headed and how builders, validators, and the community can get involved.Takeaways— Military service shaped Alon’s mindset around discipline, risk, and ownership in startups.— SSV Labs builds core Ethereum staking and validator infrastructure as the team behind SSV Network.— Ethereum still has tech supremacy for serious builders, but it needs to compete harder.— Decentralization matters, but it has to be paired with clear incentives and strong execution.— Layer 2s are real businesses, and their incentives need to align with Ethereum’s long-term health.— Cultural shifts are pushing Ethereum from pure ideals toward “Ethereum at war” competitiveness.— Validators can earn more by extending their functionality through based applications and new roles.— A marketplace for validator services changes validators from passive operators into entrepreneurs.— The future of Ethereum involves tighter interaction between validators, L2s, and based applications, crypto marketing with Peter Abilla.— SSV Labs wants to open up advanced staking and validator setups to more builders and the wider community.Chapters00:00 Military service, discipline, and founding a startup02:30 What SSV Labs is building on Ethereum05:18 How crypto, staking, and validators have evolved08:02 Inside SSV Network and distributed validator tech10:38 Why decentralization and validator design actually matter13:15 ETH’s value, tech lead, and market realities15:51 L2s as businesses and their relationship with Ethereum18:43 Based rollups, based applications, and “Ethereum at war”21:28 Cultural shifts the Ethereum community needs to stay competitive23:55 Roadmap and goals for SSV Labs26:37 How builders, validators, and the community can plug into SSV Labs------With support from InfinexFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/13/25 • 38:12

SummaryEvgeny Yurtaev, CEO of Zerion, walks through how Zerion went from a simple way to see your onchain portfolio to a full wallet and developer-facing API. He explains why they always shipped based on real user behavior, how data shaped the roadmap, and why staying flexible matters in a market that keeps changing. He also talks about growth in places like Nigeria and South Korea, crypto marketing with Peter Abilla, and why infra in crypto still has big gaps, and how verticalization can help or hurt depending on the use case. The thread running through it is simple, build what users actually use, then expand.Takeaways— Zerion formally started in 2019.— The first product focused on making portfolio tracking easy.— It later became a full wallet with an API that others can build on.— User-first development is the only way to survive shifting markets.— Product analytics was key to knowing what to ship next.— Growth has to be global, with very different user profiles by region.— The API product fills infra gaps for other crypto apps.— Verticalization creates leverage but also coordination challenges.— Future work is about smoothing UX across chains and devices.— Founders have to keep adapting as the market moves.Chapters(00:00) The journey of Zerion, from tracker to wallet(02:38) Adapting to market cycles and user needs(05:19) User-centric development and analytics(08:11) Global reach and crypto adoption(10:54) Innovations in mobile and user experience(13:28) Experimentation and market strategies(23:14) Navigating performance marketing in crypto(24:51) The crypto boom in Nigeria(26:40) Understanding the South Korean crypto market(30:07) Introducing the Zerion API(34:57) The philosophy of co-opetition in crypto(39:03) Verticalization vs. decentralization in crypto(42:16) Innovations and future directions for Zerion(44:27) Personal growth as a founder in cryptoFollow me @papiofficial on X for upcoming episodes and to get in touch with me. Watch these interviews and subscribe on Youtube Block by Block Show.See other Episodes Here. And thank you to all our crypto and blockchain guests.

11/12/25 • 48:52