Shows
The Emerge21 ShowIs the Bitcoin 4-Year Cycle Broken? + Our Bitcoin-Only Lightning Project (21Stacker) | Ep.27In Episode 27 of The Emerge21 Show, Alan and Chris review the Bitcoin landscape heading into 2026—from institutional adoption and dampening volatility, to the question many are asking: is the 4-year cycle broken?They also reveal what’s been taking up most of their time: the launch of 21Stacker—a Bitcoin-only, Lightning-native competition platform designed to help people experience Bitcoin (not just hear about it). The goal is simple: reduce friction, strip out fiat rails where possible, and create a hands-on Lightning moment that sparks curiosity and learning.You’ll also hear how the provably-fair draw mechanic...
2026-01-0955 min
The Emerge21 ShowHow BitVault Is Revolutionising Bitcoin Self-Custody | with Francesco MadonnaEmerge21 Ep 26 — with Francesco Madonna, Founder & CEO of BitVaultThis episode dives deep into the next evolution of Bitcoin self-custody.Host Chris (Emerge21) speaks with Francesco Madonna about how BitVault is re-imagining wallet security using on-chain time-locks, Miniscript, and multi-sig, to defend against both cyber and physical attacks.Francesco shares his journey from discovering Bitcoin in 2017 to building BitVault in Lugano’s Plan B city, plus how European Bitcoiners are quietly building the next wave of infrastructure.They discuss:Highlights from Lugano Plan B 2024 and Europe’s Bitcoin “renaissance”How quantum-resistant tech (BIP 360) and Miniscript are changing custodyWhy self-custody is a human vu...
2025-11-0652 min
The Emerge21 ShowFrom Baker to Bitcoiner: The Bitcoin Chef’s Recipe for Low Time Preference Living | Emerge21 Ep.25In Episode 25 of The Emerge21 Show, Alan speaks with Henry Herbert — The Bitcoin Chef — about his transition from TV baker to Bitcoin entrepreneur. Together, they explore how Bitcoin principles mirror craftsmanship, health, and sustainability in business.Henry discusses:Growing up in a legacy bakery and rediscovering meaning through BitcoinCreating Feast with Henry and accepting Bitcoin payments via LightningThe realities of “fiat food” and how inflation erodes qualityHis new venture, The Healthy Bit Podcast, connecting Bitcoin philosophy with physical wellbeingThis episode perfectly blends food, finance...
2025-10-2147 min
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin Cycles, Treasury Plays & CBDCs – Why the Next Few Months Matter | Emerge21 Ep.24After a short summer break, Alan and Chris are back with Episode 24 of the Emerge21 podcast.In this episode, they dive deep into:The current state of the Bitcoin market and why cycles may or may not play out differently this timeThe role of corporate and small business Treasury strategies in accelerating adoptionThe growing influence of institutional players like BlackRock — and how retail investors may be shaken outWhy small businesses have an advantage when adopting BitcoinThe looming rollout of CBDCs in Europe and why Bitcoin is the antidote to centralised controlBuilding in the bear market: tools, Nostr, Lightning, and wh...
2025-09-0542 min
On the Record by Bitcoin Policy UKEmerge21 Interview: The Future of Bitcoin in the UKThis podcast episode was originally published on the Emerge21 Show on 25 February 2025.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EObokMqVXcYIn Episode 15 of the Emerge21 Show, we’re joined by Freddie New, Chief Policy Officer and Co-Founder of Bitcoin Policy UK. Freddie has extensive experience in private equity, law, and financial policy, and is actively working to shape Bitcoin-friendly policies in the UK.We discuss Bitcoin adoption in the UK, the challenges of navigating government regulations, and how grassroots adoption can drive real change. Freddie shares insights into the FCA’s restrictive stance on Bitc...
2025-08-2950 min
The Emerge21 ShowZaprite, Bitcoin Payments & The Fiat Collapse with John Magill Ep23How fiat money broke everything: healthcare, media, housing, nutrition, critical thinkingThis is a conversation about money, freedom, and waking up.Timestamps & links below. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe.🔗 Learn more at: https://zaprite.com Follow on X @ZapriteApp https://x.com/ZapriteApp📲 Follow John: https://x.com/john_zaprite 🔥 Subscribe for more: https://emerge21.com🗒️ Show Notes (Timestamps & Highlights):0:00 – Intro & madness of modern life: fake food, sunscreen, and lost instincts3:00 – Bitcoin as a lens to question everything4:30 – John’s background: discovering Bitcoin, Bull Bitcoin, & moving to Austin6:40 – The origin of Zaprite: self-custody, invoicing, and merchant freedom10:00 – Who uses Zaprite: eCommerce...
2025-07-101h 06
The Emerge21 ShowFrom Gamestop to Bitcoin with John Waldron Ep22In Episode 22 of The Emerge 21 Show, Chris flies solo to chat with John Waldron https://x.com/johndtwaldron — a passionate Bitcoin advocate whose financial awakening began with Gamestop and evolved into a deep conviction for Bitcoin.We dive into:* John's “first love” with Gamestop and how the 2021 buy button fiasco sparked a deeper look at money, markets, and manipulation.* His full orange-pilling journey, inspired by Michael Saylor and Max Keiser during lockdowns.* The rising relevance of censorship-resistant money in the West, especially in Ireland and the UK.* Why he sees BitVault as the next-level Bitcoin self-custody solution with time delays...
2025-07-0249 min
The Emerge21 ShowWhat’s the Problem? Joe Bryan Breaks Down Why the World Feels Broken - And How Bitcoin Fixes It Ep21In Episode 21 of The Emerge 21 Show, we’re joined by Joe Bryan, creator of the viral Bitcoin explainer "What’s the Problem?"🎯 This episode is for anyone who's ever felt like something’s deeply wrong with the world — but can’t quite explain why.We dive into:Why inflation, broken politics, and struggling small businesses all stem from the same root causeHow Joe’s video is helping millions understand Bitcoin — without ever mentioning it until the endThe power of storytelling to spark lightbulb moments in non-technical mindsThe growing...
2025-06-1040 min
The Emerge21 ShowThe Rise of the Bitcoin Ireland Conference - With Dinny & Lawerence Ep 21In Episode 20 of the Emerge21 Podcast, Alan and Chris sit down with Dinny Collins and Lawrence Stanley, the driving force behind the Bitcoin Ireland Conference, Ireland’s premier Bitcoin-only event.🎟️ Happening Saturday, 24th May, this isn’t just a conference—it’s a community experience. Whether you're a Bitcoin beginner or seasoned OG, you'll get to network with top international speakers, learn from pioneers, and feel the energy that only an in-person event can offer.💬 We dive into:The origin story of the conferenceWhy real-life events matter more than everFull speaker lineup including Knut Svanholm, Daniel Prince, Robin Sayer, Max Hillebrand...
2025-05-1430 min
Ben Wehrman Podcast#111 Chris McLaughlin & Alan Bryden - How Bitcoin Fixes Ireland 🇮🇪🍀🟠SPONTANEOUS RIP TIME!
Over the last few days, Conor McGregor, one of the most recognizable names on Earth, has been buzzing about establishing a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve in Ireland to break the country free from the EU chains. Amidst the tweetstorm (which has garnered tens of millions of views), he retweeted a recent podcast by these 2 fine gentlemen, Chris McLaughlin & Alan Bryden.
I invited them on to dive deep into their case for why Ireland adopting Bitcoin would be a fantastic idea as a means of bringing its people freedom, more affordable real estate, and...
2025-05-1456 min
The Emerge21 ShowSimple, Powerful Bitcoin Adoption for Small & Medium Businesses with Hashley Giles Ep 19In this episode of the Emerge21 Podcast, we’re joined by Jeremy Casey better known on X as Hashley Giles https://x.com/Jcastweet, an independent business owner and the host of the UK Bitcoin Spaces on X - live every Monday at 8:30 PM.Jeremy shares how lockdowns pushed him to reassess everything, eventually discovering Bitcoin via Max Keiser. Always Bitcoin-only, never touching altcoins, Jez has personally onboarded over 40 merchants in South West London to accept Bitcoin.From running grassroots meetups and building real-world payment ecosystems to implementing a 12.5% Bitcoin treasury strategy in his own business, Jeremy offers practical, no...
2025-05-0849 min
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin vs Chaos: Tariffs, Turmoil. Ep 18As Trump-era tariffs return and global markets shake, Bitcoin stays steady. In this episode of the Emerge 21 podcast, Chris and Alan dive into what’s really happening in the world of macroeconomics, how geopolitical moves like trade wars are impacting small businesses, and why Bitcoin is proving to be the only truly trusted global asset.We unpack the Trump administration's recent tariff rollout, stock market volatility, US debt, capital flows into gold and the Swiss franc, and the growing intersection between AI, CBDCs, and Bitcoin. With global uncertainty rising, is a race for Bitcoin as a reserve asset already un...
2025-04-1427 min
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin in El Salvador - Charlie's Journey from Ireland to Berlin: The Emerge21 Show | Episode 17In Episode 17 of The Emerge21 Show, Chris and Alan sit down with Charlie, an Irish Bitcoiner who has embarked on a transformative journey from Ireland to the heart of Bitcoin adoption in El Salvador. X: @TheNaturalInve1 & @SchellingP21 W: https://schellingpoint.lat/Charlie shares his unique path from studying actuarial science and working at PwC to becoming deeply immersed in Bitcoin education, merchant adoption, and economic independence in the mountainous town of Berlin, El Salvador. Discover how Bitcoin is reshaping communities, influencing local economies, and offering a new vision of financial sovereignty and security. Dive into this inspiring conversation and...
2025-03-281h 08
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin and Ireland’s Energy Future - Ep 16 with Niall BurkeIn this powerful episode of The Emerge21 Show, Chris & Alan sit down with Niall Burke, mechanical engineer, lecturer, renewable energy expert, and Bitcoin educator, to unpack the critical intersection between Bitcoin mining, renewable energy, and proof of work.Follow Niall Burke - @nialljburke on Xhttps://t.co/BlCYuTfphhhttps://t.co/Z8vtCqNdnShttps://t.co/kjegjpPPjWNiall shares his deep insights into how Bitcoin mining can unlock stranded and curtailed energy, especially in Ireland’s growing renewable sector. Together, they explore the misunderstood concept of proof of work, Bitcoin’s role in creating a fair and decentralised monetary system, and why Bitc...
2025-03-121h 04
The Emerge21 ShowThe Future of Bitcoin in the UK | Emerge21 Show Ep. 15 with Freddie NewIn Episode 15 of the Emerge21 Show, we’re joined by Freddie New, Chief Policy Officer and Co-Founder of Bitcoin Policy UK. Freddie has extensive experience in private equity, law, and financial policy, and is actively working to shape Bitcoin-friendly policies in the UK.We discuss Bitcoin adoption in the UK, the challenges of navigating government regulations, and how grassroots adoption can drive real change. Freddie shares insights into the FCA’s restrictive stance on Bitcoin, the UK’s surprising Bitcoin holdings, and what needs to happen for the country to embrace Bitcoin as a legiti...
2025-02-2650 min
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin in The Education System with Ella Hough📢 Bitcoin & Education | How Cornell’s First Bitcoin Major Was Created | EP14 w/ Ella Hough🎙 Welcome back to another episode of Emerge21 Unlocked! In Episode 14, we’re joined by Ella Hough, a trailblazer in Bitcoin education and student advocacy. Ella is a junior at Cornell University, where she created the first Bitcoin-focused study track through the Scholars Degree program. She is the founder of Cornell Bitcoin Club, co-founder of the Bitcoin Students Network, a project lead at Generation Bitcoin, and author of the Bitcoin Quickstart Blog.🚀 In this episode, we dive into:🔹 How Ella discovered Bitcoin and pivoted her studies towards it🔹 The...
2025-02-1440 min
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin, Coffee & The Future of The UK with Simon Johnston Ep 13In this episode of The Emerge21 Show, hosts Chris and Alan welcome entrepreneur and Bitcoin advocate Simon Johnston. Simon, founder of Root & Branch Coffee, shares his fascinating journey from genetic engineering and theology to business ownership and Bitcoin adoption. He discusses how Bitcoin has transformed his coffee business, from payment systems to pensions, and how it has the potential to revolutionise global trade, particularly in developing economies.Simon also dives into his experience co-founding the Bitcoin Northern Ireland meetup, the challenges of Bitcoin education and adoption in the UK and Ireland, and the broader implications of decentralised systems on...
2025-02-0649 min
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin Destroys All Other Assets EP 12Bitcoin Destroys All Other Assets – Why It’s the Ultimate Store of Value | Emerge21 Podcast Ep. 12
🔥 In this episode of the Emerge21 Podcast, Alan and Chris break down why Bitcoin outperforms every traditional asset class. From real estate and stocks to gold and bonds, we examine how Bitcoin is revolutionizing the financial system and why it’s becoming the superior store of value.
🔑 Topics Covered:
Why people invest and how money should work
The broken fiat system and why people chase alternative assets
Bitcoin vs. Gold: The digital revolution of sound money
Why Bitcoin is eating real estate, bonds, and stocks
M...
2025-01-301h 22
The Emerge21 ShowEp 11 Staying Focused: Bitcoin Only Amidst the NoiseIn this episode - Proof of Change, Chris and Alan cut through the noise of the crypto space, focusing on why Bitcoin stands alone as the most transformative financial technology. They discuss the recent Trump coin frenzy, the lessons learned from altcoins and meme coins, and how these distractions pull focus from Bitcoin's long-term potential. This episode is a rallying call to stay centered on Bitcoin’s signal while the world grapples with fleeting trends and opportunistic ventures.
Show Notes:
[0:00] Introduction: How Bitcoin is the key signal in a market full of distractions.
[5:10] The Trump coin distraction: The frenzy ar...
2025-01-2241 min
The Emerge21 ShowEp 10 Currency Collapse! - Bitcoin Fixes This.In this episode of the Emerge21 podcast, Alan Bryden and Chris McLaughlin dive into the second part of their Bullish Bitcoin Series, tackling the pressing issue of fiat currency collapse. From the history of money and the flaws in the current monetary system to Bitcoin's role as a solution, this episode unpacks complex economic systems with clarity and insight. Discover why inflation, wealth inequality, and centralised control are symptoms of a broken system—and why Bitcoin offers a path forward.
Show Notes:
Introduction (00:00-03:30):
Alan discusses his journey of quitting caffeine and draws parallels between caffeine addiction and the go...
2025-01-151h 26
The Emerge21 ShowEp9: The Bullish Bitcoin Series - Bitcoin Is UnstoppableIn this episode of the Emerge21 Podcast, Alan Bryden and Chris McLaughlin kick off a special series on The Bullish Case for Bitcoin. Diving deep into the fundamentals, they explain why Bitcoin is unstoppable and how its decentralised, transparent, and predictable nature positions it as the ultimate form of money for the digital age. From the flaws of fiat and gold to the genius of Bitcoin's proof-of-work system, this episode unpacks why Bitcoin represents a paradigm shift in global finance.
If you're looking to solidify your understanding of Bitcoin or you're curious about its long-term potential, this episode is...
2024-12-311h 12
The Emerge21 ShowEp8 Bitcoin: Rising Optimism vs. Recycled FUD – What’s Next?In this episode of the Emerge21 podcast, Chris and Alan explore Bitcoin’s rising optimism amidst familiar pushbacks and recycled FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt). They dive into the misconceptions surrounding Bitcoin’s value, energy use, and security, addressing concerns like "it's not physical" and quantum computing threats.
Real-world examples highlight how traditional investors are shifting from assets like real estate to Bitcoin as its adoption accelerates. The hosts also discuss Bitcoin’s market cycles, S-curve adoption, and its transformative potential in the global financial system.
Whether you’re a Bitcoin advocate, skeptic, or newcomer, this epi...
2024-12-2355 min
The Emerge21 ShowEP 7 The Housing Crisis, Bitcoin, and Ireland's Economic Future With Richard O'HaganIn Episode 7 of the Emerge21 Podcast, Rich O'Hagan, co-founder of Bitcoin Network Ireland, joins us to explore Ireland's economic challenges, the housing crisis, and Bitcoin's role as a solution.
Richard shares his unique journey, from serving as an officer in the Irish Army to becoming a vocal Bitcoin advocate. We dive deep into the perverse financial incentives underpinning Ireland's housing market, how fiat systems exacerbate inequality, and why Bitcoin offers hope for a fairer, decentralized future.
Topics include:
Richard’s experiences in Lebanon and Syria and how they shaped his Bitcoin journey.
Why Ireland lags in Bitcoin adoption and ho...
2024-12-1752 min
The Emerge21 ShowEp6 Bitcoin for Your Business: The Opportunity You Can't Afford to Miss!Join Chris and Alan as they dive into the transformative role of Bitcoin in the business world. From balancing Bitcoin on your company’s balance sheet to leveraging cutting-edge payment systems like the Lightning Network and Liquid, this episode unpacks the practical steps and challenges of integrating Bitcoin into small and medium-sized businesses.
With a wealth of experience and insights, the hosts explore real-world use cases, discuss the growing adoption trends, and debate the hurdles of mainstream acceptance. Plus, hear about the exciting future of decentralized finance and how Bitcoin is poised to reshape the global economy.
Perfect for bu...
2024-12-091h 07
The Emerge21 ShowBitcoin - A Phenomenon in Nature & The Failure of The Financial SystemIn this episode of the Emerge21 Podcast, hosts Chris McLaughlin and Alan Bryden celebrate a milestone—Episode 5—and dive deep into the concept of “proof of work.”
They explore how this Bitcoin principle mirrors the rhythms and resilience found in nature and how decentralized systems can teach us valuable lessons about balance, growth, and sustainability.
Drawing parallels between Bitcoin’s design and natural ecosystems, the hosts discuss how embracing decentralized principles can inspire a more grounded, intentional approach to both business and life.
Introduction (0:00–4:00):
Milestones in podcasting and why Episode 5 feels significant.
Personal ref...
2024-11-2958 min
The Emerge21 ShowEp 4 Finding Signal In All The NoiseEpisode Description:In this episode, Chris McLaughlin and Alan Bryden dive deep into the complexities of navigating today's financial landscape. They discuss strategies for cutting through market noise, understanding the broader implications of Bitcoin adoption, and making informed decisions during both bull and bear markets. With insights into current market trends, practical techniques, and a no-hype approach, this episode is perfect for anyone looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.
Chris and Alan emphasize the importance of staying grounded, making sense of sensationalist narratives, and focusing on the long-term potential of decentralized technologies. Whether...
2024-11-2146 min
The Emerge21 ShowEp 3 Bitcoin Market Cycles and MindsetIn this episode of the Emerge21 podcast, hosts Chris and Alan delve into the psychological aspects of Bitcoin market cycles. They explore how price fluctuations impact investor behavior, the importance of a long-term mindset, and why knowledge is key for enduring market volatility. This discussion is essential for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Bitcoin's market dynamics and to build resilience in their financial journey.
Show Notes:
Introduction
Overview of current Bitcoin market conditions.
Discussion on market psychology and common reactions to price surges.
Main Segment
Analysis of the 2017 Bitcoin market...
2024-11-1435 min
The Emerge21 ShowEp 2 Is The Emerge21 Bitcoin Breakthrough For You?In this episode, Alan and Chris dive into Emerge21’s flagship program, the Bitcoin Breakthrough, a live monthly event designed to accelerate your understanding of Bitcoin.
They explore the structure and core components of the program, discussing the value it provides to both individuals and businesses looking to grasp Bitcoin's fundamentals.
Alan and Chris share insights from their combined 15+ years of study and emphasise the importance of making Bitcoin approachable, even for newcomers.
Tune in to learn how this program aims to build a strong foundation for your continued journey with Bitcoin.
...
2024-11-0829 minThe Emerge21 ShowEpisode1 - Why Emerge21Welcome to the first episode of Unlocked: The Emerge21 Podcast! Hosts Alan Bryden and Chris McLaughlin introduce themselves, share their journeys into Bitcoin, and discuss the driving mission behind Emerge21. In this episode, Alan and Chris dive into how they discovered Bitcoin, the challenges they faced along the way, and why they believe Bitcoin and decentralisation are vital for a brighter future. They explore Emerge21’s mission to bring Bitcoin education to a wider audience, helping people navigate the complexities of our financial system. Join us as we set the stage for an exciting journey into Bitcoin and decentralised fi...
2024-11-0249 min