The Brave Technologist

Elizabeth Hansson is the Michigan President of Stand With Crypto and Founder of the Detroit Blockchain Collective. In this episode she discusses the importance of grassroots activism in shaping digital asset policy, the challenges of educating lawmakers, and how community engagement is driving innovation and regulatory clarity. She also reflects on America's lag in cryptocurrency innovation and the critical need for market structure and state-level legislation. Key Takeaways: How Stand With Crypto is helping to bridge the gap between lawmakers and the crypto industry Current regulatory gaps and need for clear frameworks to foster innovation and protect users in the digital asset space. Why educating policymakers about crypto is essential to dispel misconceptions and encourage informed decision-making (and how communities can help do this). The importance of grassroots advocacy in shaping clear regulatory frameworks that foster innovation. State-level initiatives that are addressing unique local needs and driving progress in digital asset adoption. Guest Bio: Elizabeth Hansson is the Michigan President of Stand With Crypto and the founder of the Detroit Blockchain Collective. With a background in engineering and decentralized systems, she now works at the intersection of technology and policy, leading grassroots advocacy for digital assets across Michigan. Elizabeth has been instrumental in mobilizing communities, building coalitions, and advancing federal legislation to support innovation in the digital asset space.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and no w powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte

Austin Campbell, Managing Partner at Zero Knowledge Consulting, and Adam Zarazinski, CEO at Inca Digital, explore the Genius Bill and its potential to revolutionize the stablecoin landscape. They discuss the many changes with the current government, including regulations and compliance, along with how this new legislative proposal could drive innovation and widespread adoption of stablecoins. Key Takeaways:  Why the Genius Bill matters, and its potential impact on stablecoin adoption New compliance experiments and why the traditional approach is dead The brain drain of crypto experts within banking The need for innovation and technological transformation in traditional finance Guest Bio: Austin Campbell is the managing partner and founder of Zero Knowledge Consulting, and an adjunct professor at Columbia Business School. Previously, he ran the stablecoin platform and portfolio management at Paxos, and was the chief risk officer of Paxos National Trust. Austin has managed fixed income trading desks at JP Morgan and Citi covering >$100B of cash derivatives, and has been a portfolio manager and structurer at Stone Ridge, the parent of NYDIG. He holds a BS in Mathematics from CSU Chico, and an MBA from NYU Stern. Adam Zarazinski is the CEO of Inca Digital, a fintech company that provides data and analytics on the digital asset ecosystem to government agencies and financial institutions using natural language processing and LLMs. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Ryan Rugg, Global Head of Digital Assets for Citibank’s Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS), discusses their approach to integrating Web 2.0 and 3.0. She shares insights on Citi Token Service, a new solution designed to provide 24/7 liquidity and borderless transactions, and explains how it simplifies user experience by obfuscating blockchain complexity. Key Takeaways:  The future potential of digital assets and blockchain technology in transforming financial services and enabling faster, more efficient transactions globally The importance of regulatory compliance and collaboration with regulators to ensure responsible innovation The value of daily standups in driving agile development Mutual learning opportunities between traditional finance institutions and Web 3.0 projects Guest Bio: Ryan Hugg is the Global Head of Digital Assets for Citibank’s Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS), helping clients streamline treasury, payments, and commerce. She recently led the launch of Citi Token Services, a blockchain-based solution enabling 24/7 liquidity transfers and integrating tokenized deposits and smart contracts into Citi’s global network. Previously, Ryan led IBM’s Americas blockchain team, advising clients on tokenization, identity, and sustainability strategies. Her team helped launch New York’s Excelsior Pass, a digital health wallet used by millions, now serving as a model for other credential systems. A passionate advocate for diversity in leadership, she has led multiple initiatives to advance female representation, and mentors emerging leaders toward executive roles. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Marc Vanlerberghe is the Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at The Algorand Foundation. In this episode, Marc discusses how Algorand is driving mainstream adoption of blockchain technology, decentralizing its network at record speed, and preparing for a future where billions of users—and AI agents—interact seamlessly on-chain. He also explains why a user-first approach is the key to scaling Web3 beyond speculation into real-world applications. Key Takeaways: What makes Algorand different from other Layer 1s Agentic commerce and how could it reshape how we interact online Strategies for achieving mainstream adoption of crypto How Algorand is preparing for a post-quantum world Guest Bio: Marc Vanlerberghe is the Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at The Algorand Foundation. Algorand has a goal of fostering partnerships that help contribute to the advancement of the overall blockchain industry, and to drive adoption of the Algorand blockchain. Since stepping into the role in early 2024, Marc has been leading the charge to elevate Algorand’s global brand and strategy. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Wendy O, cryptocurrency analyst and host of The O Show, discusses how one careless click can jeopardize your financial security. She shares practical advice for starting your journey in crypto, earning BAT, and protecting your wealth from digital risks. Key Takeaways: The critical importance of privacy once you begin accumulating wealth in crypto Flaws with current accredited investor laws Actionable steps to protect your wealth and digital identity in a Web3 world Advice for women entering the crypto space The role of creators in the future of crypto adoption Guest Bio: Wendy O is a cryptocurrency analyst and entrepreneur based in Los Angeles. She is the host and founder of The O Show, an influential YouTube channel focused on Bitcoin, cryptocurrency, and blockchain technology, with a global audience of more than 1 million followers. Wendy has been contributing to the crypto community through her content and analysis since 2017 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte

Hester M. Peirce, Commissioner at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, discusses the SEC’s new approach to regulation under the Crypto Task Force. She details the commission's efforts to foster a healthy, regulated crypto market and the importance of cross-border cooperation in enforcement. Key Takeaways:  How the SEC is providing input for lawmakers on new regulations, and taking feedback from businesses in the industry Shifting from an enforcement-focused mindset to providing regulatory clarity The importance of regulatory frameworks that protect investors while still allowing innovation Ways to collaborate with the U.S. Congress on legislation Guest Bio: Hester M. Peirce was appointed by President Donald J. Trump to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and was sworn in on January 11, 2018. Earlier this year, Commissioner Peirce was designated as the leader of the SEC's Crypto Task Force. Prior to joining the SEC, Commissioner Peirce conducted research on the regulation of financial markets, and was a Senior Counsel on the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Commissioner Peirce earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from Case Western Reserve University, and her JD from Yale Law School. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Assaf Kipnis, AI safety (intel and investigation) at ElevenLabs, discusses the evolving landscape of online safety, the sophisticated tactics of threat actors, and the role of regulation in shaping tech company responses. He also discusses the need for accountability in both tech companies and regulatory bodies to enhance safety and security in the digital space. Key Takeaways:  New tactics and scams threat actors are using, and the effectiveness of measures like age verification and red teaming Limitations faced by tech companies in combating online safety issues, and the challenges of maintaining online safety at scale The role of law enforcement and regulation in pressuring companies, platforms, and teams to improve online safety Guest Bio: Assaf Kipnis is an AI safety investigator with over a decade of experience at companies like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Google. Now at ElevenLabs, he builds systems to uncover and respond to emerging threats in generative AI, focusing on the intersection of security, abuse prevention, and human impact. Assaf is known for making sense of complex, messy problems, combining deep investigation with storytelling to drive action. He’s guided by values like curiosity, care, and doing the right thing, and is passionate about reclaiming technology as a force for good. He strives to create environments where people feel safe, seen, and valued. Outside of work, he’s a parent, systems thinker, and mentor who believes the best solutions start with asking the right questions—and remembering to stay human. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Angel Menendez, Staff Developer Advocate at n8n, discusses how AI is revolutionizing automation within enterprises, especially in the cybersecurity sector. He also shares the significance of self-hosting solutions like n8n for maintaining data privacy, lowering costs, and reducing operational noise. Key Takeaways:  How AI is reshaping enterprise-level automation and tackling cybersecurity threats Ways that AI can empower creative right-brain thinkers Practical implications of new AI technologies in enhancing enterprise workflows while maintaining data security The evolving landscape of threat intelligence and importance of standards in automation Guest Bio: Angel Menendez is a cybersecurity and AI automation expert—currently at n8n—helping enterprises scale their AI-driven workflows and integrate intelligent automation into traditionally manual processes. With a deep background in threat intelligence, digital privacy, and process orchestration, he brings a unique perspective on the evolving intersection of cybersecurity, automation, and responsible AI adoption. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Jonathan Mann, aka the Song a Day Guy, is a songwriter and Internet icon who has been writing and sharing an original song every day since 2009. We discuss his artistic journey, his experiences with NFTs, and the future of digital art and music on blockchain. He also opens up about his legal battle with the SEC, and the challenges he has faced in the crypto space. Key Takeaways:  His transition from an unemployed, aspiring artist to a full-time musician who leverages Web3 and creates digital collectibles The impact of AI on music creation, and advice for aspiring creators working at the intersection of music and cryptocurrency The freedom and empowerment he feels from being able to mint a song a day to his community through NFTs without being restricted by any other party His experience suing the SEC and what he was fighting for Guest Bio:  Jonathan Mann is a songwriter, performer, and Internet icon best known for writing and sharing an original song every single day for the last 17 years—a streak that has earned him millions of views and a devoted following. As The Conference Troubadour, he creates custom songs live at events for companies like Apple, TEDMED, and Novartis. His work sits at the intersection of creativity, technology, and culture—and he's now exploring how crypto and AI are reshaping the future of artistic expression. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte

Luke Mulks, Vice President of Business Operations at Brave Software, discusses the tokenization of finance, exploring how cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology are reshaping the financial landscape. He also discusses the significance of stablecoins and their growing adoption in emerging markets. Key Takeaways:  The basics of stablecoins and their role in bringing stability to crypto markets How tokenized equities are removing barriers to global investment access The potential of blockchain to empower emerging markets and under-banked populations Key regulatory advancements shaping the adoption of stablecoins in the U.S. Guest Bio: Luke Mulks is the Vice President of Business Operations at Brave Software, where he helps lead the company’s privacy-focused advertising and Web3 initiatives. Since joining in 2016, he’s played a key role in launching Brave Ads and expanding the Basic Attention Token (BAT) ecosystem. A former ad tech executive and media producer, Luke also hosts The Brave Technologist podcast, which helps make emerging tech like AI and blockchain more accessible for all. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Diego Pareschi, Global Product Line Manager for EV chargers at ABB, discusses the rapidly evolving field of EV charging technology, focusing on the intersection of user experience, data analytics, and AI. He highlights the role of AI and machine learning in enhancing charging solutions, and the importance of collaboration with local governments to facilitate infrastructure development. Key Takeaways:  The current challenges of EV adoption and the need for accessibility and standardization Insights from his work developing the racing technology used by all teams in the Formula E racing series Bold predictions for the future of seamless, intelligent charging solutions Guest Bio: Diego Preschi is the Global Product Line Manager for EV fast chargers at ABB eMobility. With a background in automation and control engineering—what we might now call industrial AI—Diego has spent the last 15 years designing cutting-edge products for the energy and e-mobility sector. He’s passionate about accelerating EV adoption through innovative, user-centered charging solutions, powered by data and AI insights. One of his standout creations, the Terra 360, was named one of TIME magazine’s Best Automotive Technologies of 2022. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte

Scott Mann, Ret. U.S. Army Green Beret and Founder of Task Force Pineapple, shares his journey from a Special Forces soldier to a storyteller and actor. He detailed his time as a Green Beret who helped form Task Force Pineapple,  a group of veterans who used technology to coordinate the evacuation of Afghan allies during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. Key Takeaways:  The role of biometric data collection in US Army missions and the Global War on Terror How their unprecedented use of the consumer app, Signal, became a go-to resource for natural disaster management and special operations The critical role of technology and veteran networks in crisis situations His new creative venture: Last Out - an award winning play his touring on stages across the country to provide healing to Veterans and their Families Guest Bio: Scott Mann is a former U.S. Army Green Beret with tours in Colombia, Peru, and Afghanistan. He’s the founder of Task Force Pineapple, a 501(c)(3) supporting Veterans and Afghan Allies, and the author of Operation Pineapple Express, a New York Times Best Seller. Scott also wrote Nobody is Coming to Save You, a guide to building trust and human connection in divided times. He also hosts The Scott Mann Podcast and is the playwright and star of Last Out: Elegy of a Green Beret, an award-winning play honoring the sacrifices of our military community. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

John Kiriakou, former CIA officer and whistleblower against the agency’s  torture program, discusses his extensive background in intelligence, the evolving role of technology and AI in intelligence operations, and the balance between privacy and national security. John details his experience with the CIA’s torture program post-9/11, and the consequences he’s faced for exposing these practices. Key Takeaways: How targeted intelligence can succeed without mass surveillance, and how national security doesn’t need to mean sacrificing individual privacy The evolution of drone warfare in military options, and how its crossed moral lines The dangers posed by AI in intelligence, and the need for ethical considerations in the application of AI The current state of the US Patriot Act, and the implications of technology in media Guest Bio: John Kiriakou is a former CIA officer, former senior investigator for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and former counterterrorism consultant for ABC News. He was responsible for the capture in Pakistan in 2002 of Abu Zubaydah, believed to be the third-ranking official in al-Qaeda. In 2007, Kiriakou exposed the CIA’s torture program, saying that the CIA tortured prisoners, had become official U.S. government policy, and that this policy had been approved by then-President George W. Bush. He became the sixth whistleblower indicted by the Obama administration under the Espionage Act—a law designed to punish spies—and served 23 months in prison as a result. Kiriakou is the author of eight books, including The Reluctant Spy: My Secret Life in the CIA’s War on Terror; Doing Time Like a Spy: How the CIA Taught Me to Survive and Thrive in Prison; and The Convenient Terrorist: Abu Zubaydah and the Weird Wonderland of America’s Secret Wars. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte

Sandy Carter, COO and Head of GTM at Unstoppable Domains, discusses the potential of on-chain and digitized identities, including real-world examples that highlight shortcomings of current systems. She also reveals details of the new .BRAVE domain and its significance for the Brave community. Key Takeaways:  How Unstoppable domains allows users to store verified digital identity information securely The convergence of AI and blockchain technology, including the potential of AI agents within crypto wallets The launch of the new.BRAVE domain and why this is such an exciting announcement for the Brave community Guest Bio: Sandy Carter is a globally recognized expert and innovator in AI and blockchain, having led groundbreaking advancements in AI and blockchain. Currently, as COO of Unstoppable Domains—a leading digital identity platform—she is revolutionizing how users manage and own their online identities. Formerly COO, CPO, and CSO at AWS and IBM, Sandy has successfully driven billions in revenue growth and spearheaded transformative technology adoption at scale. Sandy is author of the bestselling book “AI First, Human Always”, and has been recognized as a Microsoft MSN Top 10 AI Entrepreneur. She has been featured in Adweek’s AI Power 100, and honored by Constellation Research as a Top AI Business Leader. She has delivered keynote addresses at global forums such as CES, SXSW, Davos, and more, and has been consistently rated among the top speakers. An accomplished global speaker, she has captivated audiences of up to 50,000 attendees in over 89 countries (and has proudly sampled McDonald’s in each one). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Debbie Reynolds, Chief Data Privacy Officer and host of “The Data Diva Talks Privacy” podcast, discusses the challenges parents face in protecting their children online, and simple habits users can adopt to take back control of their privacy. She also discusses the growing recognition among companies that excessive data collection poses significant risks. Key Takeaways:  How consumer expectations for data are privacy changing The asymmetrical relationship between consumers and companies regarding data privacy How companies can scale a human‑centric approach to privacy The importance of decentralization in future data management Guest Bio: Debbie Reynolds—aka “The Data Diva”—is a globally recognized technologist, thought leader, and advisor in data privacy and emerging technology. With over 20 years of experience, she has delivered keynote talks for major organizations like Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson, PayPal, TikTok, and Uber. Her insights have been featured in leading media outlets, including The New York Times, Forbes, Bloomberg, and Wired. Debbie hosts the #1 global award-winning podcast, “The Data Diva Talks Privacy,” which reaches listeners in over 120 countries. Identity Review has named her one of the Global Top Eight Privacy Experts, and the European Risk Policy Institute has named her a Top 30 CyberRisk Communicator. She also chairs the IEEE Cyber Security Committee for the Next Generation Connectivity Systems Privacy Labeling Project. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte

Rob Viglione, Co-Founder and CEO of Horizen Labs and zkVerify, shares his transition from military intelligence in Afghanistan to co-founding a blockchain company. He discusses the role of zero-knowledge (ZK) technology in enabling private transactions, the need for integration of crypto with traditional finance, and the vision to bring off-chain information on chain. Key Takeaways: Zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs): what they are, and why they’re so important in today’s digital landscape The utility of cryptocurrencies for individuals in poorly governed jurisdictions The convergence of AI and blockchain, and how ZKPs can verify AI outputs without compromising privacy The real-world applications of ZK technology, such as private transactions, digital identity verification, and connecting traditional finance with blockchain Guest Bio: Rob Viglione is the co-founder and CEO of Horizen Labs, the development studio behind several leading Web3 projects, including zkVerify and Horizen. Rob served in the U.S. Air Force and was deployed to Afghanistan, where he supported Special Operations Task Force intelligence efforts. During this time, he developed an early interest in Bitcoin, recognizing its potential benefits for countries with unstable economies. Today, Rob’s work focuses on Web3 scalability, blockchain efficiency, and zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs). With the growing convergence of AI and blockchain, Horizen Labs is also exploring how ZKPs can be used to help verify AI model outputs without compromising privacy. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Shafik Quoraishee, Senior Mobile/AI Game Developer at the New York Times, discusses the development process behind popular New York Times games such as Crosswords and Connections, along with what they learned about consumer behavior from the highly addictive and viral success of Wordle. Key Takeaways:  How to balance innovation with the legacy of traditional games The importance of user engagement and testing in game development The future potential of AI in creating immersive gaming experiences Guest Bio: Shafik Quoraishee who is a Senior Mobile/AI Game Developer at the New York Times. He works on popular games such as The New York Times Crosswords, Connections, Strands, and Wordle, and is deeply interested in the intersection of AI and accessibility. Previously Shafik was a Senior Android Engineer for the National Basketball Association, and a Senior Data Engineer at Business Insider. Connect with Shafik: Website: https://www.shafikquoraishee.com   YouTube: https://youtube.com/@squoraishee   Medium: https://squoraishee.medium.com/   X: https://x.com/SQuoraishee ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Luke Mulks, Vice President of Business Operations at Brave Software, discusses how AI and crypto regulations have evolved in 2025, including new opportunities and regulatory reversals. He also shares updates about Brave's achievements and the movement towards a private world. Key Takeaways:  Brave's growth in user privacy and engagement The impact of user feedback and community involvement for Brave Ongoing developments with the Basic Attention Token (BAT), and new initiatives like the Rewards Partner Program How shifting to a “user first” podcast theme has impacted the success of the show Guest Bio: Luke Mulks is the Vice President of Business Operations at Brave Software, where he helps lead the company’s privacy-focused advertising and Web3 initiatives. Since joining in 2016, he’s played a key role in launching Brave Ads and expanding the Basic Attention Token (BAT) ecosystem. A former ad tech executive and media producer, Luke also hosts The Brave Technologist podcast, making emerging tech like AI and blockchain more accessible. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte  

Anton Kraminkin, Founder of Sleepagotchi, shares insights on the importance of sleep, the cultural shifts towards valuing sleep, and how Sleepagotchi rewards users for maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Key Takeaways:  The surprising sleep habits Sleepagotchi has learned about their users The ethics of gamifying health habits and working with sensitive data Combating bots and bad actors attracted to the financial incentives Sleepagotchi provides The use of Telegram as a tool for marketing and low-friction user acquisition Monetization and ways to generate revenue in the Web3/health space Guest Bio: Anton Kraminkin is the founder and CEO of Sleepagotchi, a sleep app that uses gamification and AI to  incentivize users to sleep better. Sleepagotchi raised investments from 6th Man Ventures, Collab+Currency, 1kx and Alliance, and angels including the CPO of Duolingo, among others. Previously, Anton worked on product at Duolingo. He started Sleepagotchi while completing his studies at Harvard Business School. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte

Yemel Jardi, Co-Founder & Executive Director of the Decentraland Foundation, discusses the evolution of Decentraland from an experimental project to a thriving virtual social world. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities within the metaverse, and the importance of community and human connection. Key Takeaways:  How Decentraland is providing more opportunity for human connection through socially rooted, virtual worlds Unique use cases for creators and businesses to leverage online worlds Balancing decentralization with the need for governance and moderation Ethical concerns with AI in social virtual worlds The importance of decentralization and community-driven content Guest Bio: Yemel Jardi is a co-founder of Decentraland, and the Executive Director of the Decentraland Foundation. With a passion for blockchain technology, Yemel began building open source tools for Bitcoin development in 2014, and later co-founded Casa Voltaire, which has incubated significant blockchain projects such as Decentraland, OpenZeppelin, HardHat, and Muun. Currently, Yemel leads the Decentraland Foundation’s efforts to build a decentralized virtual world in the open metaverse. In his free time, Yemel enjoys playing football, kiteboarding, and FPV drone racing. He is also keenly focused on the evolving AI revolution, and the development of machines or software systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence—such as problem-solving, learning, and adaptation—and how this will impact work, culture, and the social dynamic of social virtual worlds. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About this Show: The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all! Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together. The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API. Music by: Ari Dvorin Produced by: Sam Laliberte