Staying Sovereign While EngineeringCan AI replace Seed Funding?Mandana and Ian explore AI’s revolutionary role in tech development. They discuss their time in Madeira (a Bitcoin-friendly hub) working on NextBlock, the Sovereign Engineering Program, and how AI tools like LLMs empower creators to buildout more of their product without VC funding. Key themes include decentralized innovation, community-driven adoption, and reclaiming digital sovereignty.Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Zapstore, Cashu, Blossom, and BeyondNew Tools for the Decentralized Digital WorldIn this episode of " Flirting with Bitcoin,” hosts Ian and Mandana explore their experiences at the Sovereign Engineering Program in Madeira, where they are developing NextBlock. They elaborate on the transition from describing the platform as an "advertising network" to referring to it as a "promotional content system," highlighting the need for adaptability beyond conventional advertising methods. The episode features significant decentralized tools that are emerging from the program, such as Zapstore (a censorship-resistant application store), Blossom (decentralized file hosting solutions), DVMCP (which integrates artificial intelligence with Nostr), and Cashu (a Bitcoin-based credit framework). Furthermore, they investigate the challenges associated with designing user-friendly Bitcoin integrations and underscore the critical role of community-driven innovation in transforming our interactions with technology.Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.comIn this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Mandana & Ian explore the contrasting worlds Bitcoiners inhabit and the concept of sovereignty in the context of digital currency. They discuss the idea of living on a Bitcoin standard, the role of KYC (Know Your Customer) in modern financial systems, and the challenges of developing truly sovereign lifestyles. The conversation touches upon Bitcoin as an innovative force, the growth of new technologies like Nostr, and how platforms like Strike are helping bridge the gap between traditional and decentralized worlds. They also delve into the cognitive dissonance among Bitcoiners, who often must navigate a world that doesn't fully understand or accept Bitcoin. The episode wraps up with musings on long-term goals for Bitcoin adoption and the hurdles of achieving complete independence from established systems.03:19 Living with Bitcoin: Practical Advice05:45 The Role of KYC in Bitcoin Transactions17:52 Decentralized Verification and Risk Management22:23 Mitigating Risks in a Fraudulent World24:14 The Role of KYC in Modern Platforms25:33 Engaging with Critics28:50 Historical Parallels: Facebook and Early Internet30:21 Conspiracy Theories: Google Plus and Media Control35:37 Proton Email: A Secure Alternative37:57 Balancing Sovereignty and Realism42:24 The Path to Sovereignty and RevolutionCreate Your Strike Account TodaySign up For NextBlockgenerated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.comIn this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Mandana & Ian explore the contrasting worlds Bitcoiners inhabit and the concept of sovereignty in the context of digital currency. They discuss the idea of living on a Bitcoin standard, the role of KYC (Know Your Customer) in modern financial systems, and the challenges of developing truly sovereign lifestyles. The conversation touches upon Bitcoin as an innovative force, the growth of new technologies like Nostr, and how platforms like Strike are helping bridge the gap between traditional and decentralized worlds. They also delve into the cognitive dissonance among Bitcoiners, who often must navigate a world that doesn't fully understand or accept Bitcoin. The episode wraps up with musings on long-term goals for Bitcoin adoption and the hurdles of achieving complete independence from established systems.03:19 Living with Bitcoin: Practical Advice05:45 The Role of KYC in Bitcoin Transactions17:52 Decentralized Verification and Risk Management22:23 Mitigating Risks in a Fraudulent World24:14 The Role of KYC in Modern Platforms25:33 Engaging with Critics28:50 Historical Parallels: Facebook and Early Internet30:21 Conspiracy Theories: Google Plus and Media Control35:37 Proton Email: A Secure Alternative37:57 Balancing Sovereignty and Realism42:24 The Path to Sovereignty and RevolutionCreate Your Strike Account TodaySign up For NextBlockgenerated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.comIn this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Mandana & Ian explore the contrasting worlds Bitcoiners inhabit and the concept of sovereignty in the context of digital currency. They discuss the idea of living on a Bitcoin standard, the role of KYC (Know Your Customer) in modern financial systems, and the challenges of developing truly sovereign lifestyles. The conversation touches upon Bitcoin as an innovative force, the growth of new technologies like Nostr, and how platforms like Strike are helping bridge the gap between traditional and decentralized worlds. They also delve into the cognitive dissonance among Bitcoiners, who often must navigate a world that doesn't fully understand or accept Bitcoin. The episode wraps up with musings on long-term goals for Bitcoin adoption and the hurdles of achieving complete independence from established systems.03:19 Living with Bitcoin: Practical Advice05:45 The Role of KYC in Bitcoin Transactions17:52 Decentralized Verification and Risk Management22:23 Mitigating Risks in a Fraudulent World24:14 The Role of KYC in Modern Platforms25:33 Engaging with Critics 28:50 Historical Parallels: Facebook and Early Internet30:21 Conspiracy Theories: Google Plus and Media Control35:37 Proton Email: A Secure Alternative37:57 Balancing Sovereignty and Realism42:24 The Path to Sovereignty and RevolutionCreate Your Strike Account TodaySign up For NextBlockgenerated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.comIn this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Mandana shares the major life decision of quitting her job to join her husband Ian full-time in their new venture, nextblock. The conversation highlights their passion for Bitcoin and the revolutionary potential of their new social media company which aims to create an honest marketplace for attention where users get paid to watch ads. The episode delves into their motivations, the challenges they anticipate, and the innovative business model that integrates Bitcoin and Nostr technology. Mandana and Ian discuss the broader impact they think they will made on Bitcoin adoption, aiming to disrupt legacy social media, and provide a transparent ad experience.01:29 The Big Announcement: Quitting for Bitcoin 04:30 Explaining NextBlock: A Revolutionary Social Media08:33 The Future of Advertising with NextBlock20:39 NextBlock's Attention Marketplace Concept22:51 Building the Proof of Concept: Billboard27:31 The Vision for NextBlock33:34 Family Businesses and Job SecurityCreate Your Strike Account TodaySign up For NextBlockgenerated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.comIn this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Mandana and Ian discuss the impact of Bitcoin on financial independence and its potential to improve the standard of living. They delve into how the Trump administration's policies may influence Bitcoin adoption and the broader cryptocurrency market, including the promised release of Ross Ulbricht. The hosts express concerns about scams and 'meme coins' and emphasize the security and lasting value of Bitcoin. They also explore the implications of a U.S. ban on Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and the importance of reducing living costs to maximize the benefits of Bitcoin. Personal anecdotes and predictions about Bitcoin's future role in financial stability and freedom underscore the episode.01:42 Trump Administration's Impact on Bitcoin03:58 Ross Ulbricht's Pardon18:01 Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)27:08 The Government's Role in Measuring Value33:45 Bitcoin as a Solution for Financial Security35:47 The Cognitive Dissonance of Fiat vs. Bitcoin43:38 Bitcoin's Potential to Save Americans45:09 Educating the Next Generation Create Your Strike Account TodaySign up For NextBlockgenerated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.comIn this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Mandana & Ian discuss the challenges and skepticism they face from family members regarding Bitcoin's future. The couple debates Bitcoin's stability, addresses common misconceptions, and shares their experiences as entrepreneurs starting a Bitcoin-focused company. They highlight the role of Nostr and NextlBock in driving Bitcoin adoption, compare Bitcoin's rise to historical tech trends, and emphasize the transformative power of Bitcoin and Nostr as new financial and social media technologies. Throughout the episode, they explore themes of resilience, gratitude, and the evolving landscape of digital finance.01:37 First Bull Run Experiences08:43 Bitcoin Company Dynamics14:22 The False Promise of Social Media Profits15:33 Bitcoin Skepticism from Family18:34 Challenges of Explaining Bitcoin22:25 Family Support and Bitcoin Advocacy25:10 The Future of Wealth and BitcoinCreate Your Strike Account Todaygenerated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Announcing NextBlock Billboard! Earn Bitcoin for your attention, support innovative projects, and explore a new era of social interaction. May 1st (…ish) mark your calendars! Interested in advertising on Billboard?Email us at adrevolution@nextblock.com01:44 Introducing NextBlock Billboard11:38 The Million Dollar Homepage Inspiration15:56 Building NextBlock: Challenges and Insights19:50 Emotional Reactions in Business Decisions20:18 The Power of Self-Reflection22:09 NextBlock's Suite of Tools24:29 The Attention Marketplace and Bitcoin31:08 Mission Statements and Core Values36:59 Transparency and Future Plansgenerated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

What Are The Tradeoffs of Requiring KYC On Social Media?In this episode we delve into the dynamic and ever-evolving world of Bitcoin and Nostr. Explore the impact of integrating Strike, as we discuss innovative solutions to common challenges faced by Bitcoin app developers. From the upcoming ban on TikTok in the U.S. to the intricacies of creating seamless financial transactions, this episode covers it all. Our journey takes us through the potential of Nostr as the next big social and economic platform. Get ready for an insightful and light-hearted conversation on how integrating with platforms like Strike can transform the Bitcoin user experience.01:25 Challenges with Nostr and Zapping03:06 Financial Technology in Freedom Tech10:32 TikTok Ban and Algorithm Discussion12:52 Connecting People on NextBlock17:45 Challenges of Indexing Nostr18:14 Pay Per Search: A Viable Model?19:39 Issues with Zaps and Wallets22:29 Strike Integration and Benefits25:41 NextBlock's Unique Approach28:01 User Experience and Participation32:26 Excitement for the FutureGenerated By Underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Why VC Fund When You Can BTC Fund?In this episode of 'Flirting with Bitcoin,' Ian and Mandana discuss the intricacies of tech startups, funding in Silicon Valley, and the Bitcoin and Nostr ecosystem. They explore the challenges and strategies behind building their own company, nextblock, without relying on traditional VC funding. Emphasizing the importance of patience, technical leadership, and the unique dynamics of open-source projects, they delve into how Bitcoin's principles can redefine the approach to tech innovation. As they transition into the festive season, they also reflect on their personal experiences and the evolving journey of integrating Bitcoin into their daily lives.01:19 Holiday Season and The Bitcoin Gift-Giving Strategy06:12 The Steve Jobs Persona in Silicon Valley08:38 Open Source Projects vs. Companies16:04 The Value of Open Source in Bitcoin23:16 IBM and the Open Source Revolution25:25 Challenges with OpenSats and Funding28:35 Venture Capital and the Tech Industry29:47 Building NextBlock: A New Business Model31:36 The Role of Developers in Startups34:59 Decentralization and Bitcoin Companies43:17 The Future of NextBlock Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Join us on an electrifying journey as we take our groundbreaking social media app from an idea to the global stage at the Adopting Bitcoin Conference in El Salvador. We delve into the current state of Bitcoin and its integration with social media, emphasizing the potential of Nostr as the 'new internet' driving Bitcoin adoption. The episode features discussions on the innovative business model behind their new company, NextBlock, which enables users to earn Bitcoin by watching advertisements. The hosts share personal stories, highlight the importance of meeting like-minded people at conferences, and explore the challenges and future of integrating Bitcoin and social media. The episode also touches on their unique approach to refining their presentation and the supportive, collaborative nature of the Bitcoin community.00:00 Introduction to Bitcoin and Nostr00:27 Moving to Nostr City01:29 Adopting Bitcoin Conference Announcement02:55 The Attention Marketplace Concept03:58 Understanding Attention as a Commodity05:15 Comparing Attention and Inflation06:27 The Future of Advertising with Nextblock14:18 Opting In and Out of Ads24:46 Respect in Advertising27:49 Good vs. Bad Actors in Advertising28:20 The Attention Marketplace and Its Impact28:59 The Cost of Unwanted Ads29:42 Ads in Everyday Life31:14 Product Placement in Media34:02 The Future of Advertising and Attention39:21 Capitalism and Market Choices45:14 The Role of Bitcoin and Nostr52:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe