Want to Know The Secret Behind Pudgy Penguin’s Viral Brand?

Welcome back to Talking Tokens.

Today we’re sharing two episodes. Yes, one is our normal scheduled programming - but the second one has me in the passenger seat as a guest on another podcast!

More details below.

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The latest Talking Tokens podcast 🎙️

For this week’s Thursday episode, I interviewed Luca Netz, CEO of Pudgy Penguins.

We discuss why he diversified Pudgy Penguins into a business bigger than NFTs, the recent launch of Abstract Chain and how it wants to make consumer apps fun, creating brand awareness in a crowded market, the ROI and more.

Talking Tokens episodes are released on Spotify and Apple Podcasts at 6AM EST or YouTube at 8AM EST every Tuesday and Thursday. Listen in!

Make sure to subscribe to keep up with the latest episodes. Feel free to leave a review and tell us your thoughts.

Extra fun: My guest appearance!

This week we’re shouting out to The Tales of Web3 podcast - you all have really great taste. I jokingly say this because while Ricky is a great host, he also had me on the show as a guest — and I really enjoyed it.

We dive into my cofounder journey, my take on hot topics like KOLs, AI agents, the proliferation of L1s and L2s, advice for listeners as a former reporter and more.

Give it a listen here via Pods or on YouTube below:

Money and people moves

The biggest updates regarding startups that raised capital, moved money or did a little bit of both as well as market players who have left their web3 job or are starting something new.

1. A16z’s Crypto Policy Head Brian Quintenz has been chosen to lead the CFTC

2. Trump picks former Bitfury exec Jonathan Gould to lead the OCC, signaling ongoing shift to crypto-friendly regulators (The Block)

3. Crypto Custody Firm BitGo Said to Weigh IPO as Soon as This Year (Bloomberg)

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Please note that this content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Any views shared should not be considered financial advice, nor should it be used to make investment decisions. Cryptocurrencies are high risk and you should consult a financial professional before making any financial decisions. Make sure you do your own research. We may have a direct or indirect financial interest in content mentioned in this newsletter.