Flirting With Bitcoin

The Roman Calendar is Dead: NextBlock's Bitcoin Time Revolution How We're Opting Out of Arbitrary Time and Embracing Bitcoin's Natural Rhythm [Block # 901651][S04X21] In this season finale of Flirting with Bitcoin, Ian and Mandana reveal NextBlock's first offering: The Observatory - a timekeeping system that uncovers Bitcoin's hidden connection to ancient lunar cycles. Ian shares his groundbreaking discovery that Bitcoin's blockchain is actually a "pseudo-programmatic lunar calendar" with 26 difficulty adjustments per year, creating exactly 13 moons annually. This revelation transforms how we understand Bitcoin's fundamental rhythm and opens the door to a completely new way of experiencing time. The couple explores how this lunar-solar system creates natural seasons within Bitcoin's ecosystem, with the halving cycle (every 210,000 blocks) acting as the "sun" that creates four distinct quarters. Each quarter contains exactly 13 moons, creating a perfect harmony between Bitcoin's mathematical precision and humanity's oldest timekeeping mechanism. But this isn't just about time - it's about freedom. The Observatory represents NextBlock's first offering to the world, demonstrating how Bitcoin enables us to "opt out" of the Roman calendar's arbitrary constraints and embrace a time system that's both mathematically precise and naturally aligned with cosmic cycles. From the technical architecture that powers this system to the philosophical implications of choosing your own time, this episode reveals how NextBlock is building more than just a platform - they're creating an entirely new way of experiencing reality itself. As Mandana says, "By changing your money, you completely separate yourself from the government." The Observatory shows us that by changing our time, we can separate ourselves from the entire system that's been imposed upon us. Key Topics: Bitcoin's hidden lunar calendar structure The 13-moon system and 26 difficulty adjustments NextBlock Observatory's launch Opting out of the Roman calendar Bitcoin's natural seasonal cycles The connection between time, money, and freedom This episode marks the beginning of NextBlock's journey to change not just how we think about money, but how we think about time itself. Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

The Gentrification of Bitcoin How language, power, and new money are reshaping Bitcoin’s culture. In this episode the hosts dive deep into the heated debate over whether Bitcoin’s smallest unit should be transformed as it goes mainstream. From the heated “bits vs SATs” debate to the influx of politicians, Wall Street, and corporate interests, they examine what’s gained and what’s lost when new money and new voices enter the space. With personal stories, sharp insights, and plenty of humor, this episode unpacks the tensions between old-school Bitcoiners and newcomers, the power of language, and what the future holds for the world’s most disruptive technology. Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at partnerships@joinnextblock.com Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

The Cost of Ignoring Bitcoin What price are you paying by waiting? The perfect episode to share with friends and family who've dismissed Bitcoin in the past but might be ready to reconsider. Ian and Manana return to their roots, explaining why Bitcoin is the solution to our broken money system in accessible, compelling terms. With inflation rising and economic uncertainty growing, the hosts provide a timely and convincing case for Bitcoin adoption through real-world examples—including how they both quit their jobs while maintaining their lifestyle. They address common objections and questions skeptics have: from "What exactly is Bitcoin?" to "How do you actually live using it?" The episode serves as both a primer for beginners and a powerful reminder that Bitcoin offers financial freedom in an increasingly restricted world. As the hosts cleverly note, "You get Bitcoin at the price you deserve"—is today finally the day your skeptical friends deserve it? Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Attention Theft to Viewer's Choice What if advertising actually respected you? Mandana and Ian explore how the Bitcoin-powered Nostr protocol is revolutionizing digital advertising by testing ways to pay people viewing ads. They discuss projects like Zapertising, Buzzbot, and SIGs for SATs that are experimenting with paying users directly for their attention, rather than exploiting it. The couple examines how these alternatives contrast with their own project NextBlock and traditional social media platforms like BlueSky. They argue that by changing the financial incentives around attention, we can create a more equitable internet where both creators and audience members receive fair compensation, ultimately concluding that your attention might be worth significantly more than current systems suggest. Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Staying Sovereign While Engineering Can 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 Beyond New Tools for the Decentralized Digital World In 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.com In 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 Advice 05:45 The Role of KYC in Bitcoin Transactions 17:52 Decentralized Verification and Risk Management 22:23 Mitigating Risks in a Fraudulent World 24:14 The Role of KYC in Modern Platforms 25:33 Engaging with Critics 28:50 Historical Parallels: Facebook and Early Internet 30:21 Conspiracy Theories: Google Plus and Media Control 35:37 Proton Email: A Secure Alternative 37:57 Balancing Sovereignty and Realism 42:24 The Path to Sovereignty and Revolution Create Your Strike Account Today Sign up For NextBlock generated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com In 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 Advice 05:45 The Role of KYC in Bitcoin Transactions 17:52 Decentralized Verification and Risk Management 22:23 Mitigating Risks in a Fraudulent World 24:14 The Role of KYC in Modern Platforms 25:33 Engaging with Critics 28:50 Historical Parallels: Facebook and Early Internet 30:21 Conspiracy Theories: Google Plus and Media Control 35:37 Proton Email: A Secure Alternative 37:57 Balancing Sovereignty and Realism 42:24 The Path to Sovereignty and Revolution Create Your Strike Account Today Sign up For NextBlock generated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com In 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 Advice 05:45 The Role of KYC in Bitcoin Transactions 17:52 Decentralized Verification and Risk Management 22:23 Mitigating Risks in a Fraudulent World 24:14 The Role of KYC in Modern Platforms 25:33 Engaging with Critics 28:50 Historical Parallels: Facebook and Early Internet 30:21 Conspiracy Theories: Google Plus and Media Control 35:37 Proton Email: A Secure Alternative 37:57 Balancing Sovereignty and Realism 42:24 The Path to Sovereignty and RevolutionCreate Your Strike Account Today Sign up For NextBlock generated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com In 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 Media 08:33 The Future of Advertising with NextBlock 20:39 NextBlock's Attention Marketplace Concept 22:51 Building the Proof of Concept: Billboard 27:31 The Vision for NextBlock 33:34 Family Businesses and Job Security Create Your Strike Account Today Sign up For NextBlock generated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com In 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 Today Sign up For NextBlock generated by underlord Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Interested in advertising on Billboard? Email us at adrevolution@joinnextblock.com In 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 Experiences 08:43 Bitcoin Company Dynamics 14:22 The False Promise of Social Media Profits 15:33 Bitcoin Skepticism from Family 18:34 Challenges of Explaining Bitcoin 22:25 Family Support and Bitcoin Advocacy 25:10 The Future of Wealth and Bitcoin Create Your Strike Account Today generated 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.com 01:44 Introducing NextBlock Billboard 11:38 The Million Dollar Homepage Inspiration 15:56 Building NextBlock: Challenges and Insights 19:50 Emotional Reactions in Business Decisions 20:18 The Power of Self-Reflection 22:09 NextBlock's Suite of Tools 24:29 The Attention Marketplace and Bitcoin 31:08 Mission Statements and Core Values 36:59 Transparency and Future Plans generated 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 Zapping 03:06 Financial Technology in Freedom Tech 10:32 TikTok Ban and Algorithm Discussion 12:52 Connecting People on NextBlock 17:45 Challenges of Indexing Nostr 18:14 Pay Per Search: A Viable Model? 19:39 Issues with Zaps and Wallets 22:29 Strike Integration and Benefits 25:41 NextBlock's Unique Approach 28:01 User Experience and Participation 32:26 Excitement for the Future Generated 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 Strategy 06:12 The Steve Jobs Persona in Silicon Valley 08:38 Open Source Projects vs. Companies 16:04 The Value of Open Source in Bitcoin 23:16 IBM and the Open Source Revolution 25:25 Challenges with OpenSats and Funding 28:35 Venture Capital and the Tech Industry 29:47 Building NextBlock: A New Business Model 31:36 The Role of Developers in Startups 34:59 Decentralization and Bitcoin Companies 43:17 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 Nostr 00:27 Moving to Nostr City 01:29 Adopting Bitcoin Conference Announcement 02:55 The Attention Marketplace Concept 03:58 Understanding Attention as a Commodity 05:15 Comparing Attention and Inflation 06:27 The Future of Advertising with Nextblock 14:18 Opting In and Out of Ads 24:46 Respect in Advertising 27:49 Good vs. Bad Actors in Advertising 28:20 The Attention Marketplace and Its Impact 28:59 The Cost of Unwanted Ads 29:42 Ads in Everyday Life 31:14 Product Placement in Media 34:02 The Future of Advertising and Attention 39:21 Capitalism and Market Choices 45:14 The Role of Bitcoin and Nostr 52:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

From Flirting with Bitcoin to Redefining Attention: The Revolutionary Attention Marketplace In this episode, Ian and Mandana discuss their portable lessons on Bitcoin and the revolutionary concept of the 'Attention Marketplace'. As they gear up for the Adopting Bitcoin Conference in El Salvador, they delve into how Nostr is not just a new form of social media but a foundation for broader Bitcoin adoption. They explore the idea of trading attention for Bitcoin and the implications it has for advertising, social media users, and future marketplaces. They also share insights on the respect-based trade and how it contrasts with the current capitalism-driven exploitation of attention. 00:00 Introduction to Bitcoin and Nostr 00:27 Moving to Nostr City 01:29 Adopting Bitcoin Conference Announcement 02:55 The Attention Marketplace Concept 03:58 Understanding Attention as a Commodity 05:15 Comparing Attention and Inflation 06:27 The Future of Advertising with Nextblock 14:18 Opting In and Out of Ads 24:46 Respect in Advertising 27:49 Good vs. Bad Actors in Advertising 28:20 The Attention Marketplace and Its Impact 28:59 The Cost of Unwanted Ads 29:42 Ads in Everyday Life 31:14 Product Placement in Media 34:02 The Future of Advertising and Attention 39:21 Capitalism and Market Choices 45:14 The Role of Bitcoin and Nostr 52:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

Introducing NextBlock: Revolutionizing Social Media with Bitcoin and Nostr In this episode, join Ian and Mandana as they reveal their groundbreaking new venture, NextBlock, a social media app designed to pay users in Bitcoin for watching ads. They discuss their inspiration for the project, the innovative attention marketplace, and their experience launching the company at Nostradam in Amsterdam and NostraValley in Pennsylvania. Emphasizing decentralization, transparency, and user empowerment, they outline how NextBlock aims to change the social media landscape and drive mass adoption of Bitcoin and Nostr. Learn about their unique development approach, funding strategies, and vision for a fair and efficient social media ecosystem. 00:00 Introduction to the Concept of Nextblock 01:24 Launching the Company at Nostradam 02:45 Publicizing and Building Nextblock 07:32 The Attention Marketplace Explained 20:59 Designing the Nextblock Experience 27:36 Understanding NPUB and Vibrancy 29:06 Neighborhoods and Block Parties 30:34 Exploring the City and the Wilds 33:45 Monetizing Social Media with Nextblock 36:29 Building Nextblock: Funding and Development 43:41 Consensus Driven Development 50:02 Global Advertising and Decentralization 53:28 Nextblock's Vision and Future Get full access to Flirting With Bitcoin at www.flirtingwithbitcoin.com/subscribe

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