• Ep28 - Charlie K & James Coombes - Block Earner redefining crypto-backed home ownership & AFR success
    Aug 25 2025

    Redefining Home Ownership with Bitcoin: Block Earner's Revolutionary Crypto-backed Loans | IR Podcast Ep28In episode 28 of the Independent Reserve Bitcoin & Crypto Podcast, host Lee Eaton welcomes Charlie Karaboga, CEO and co-founder of Block Earner, and James Coombes, Director and CCO of Block Earner. They discuss Block Earner's recent successful Series A funding round, raising $75 million with industry heavyweights like CMCC leading the charge. The conversation covers the revolutionary shift to crypto-backed loans, especially Bitcoin-backed loans, and their unique advantages over traditional lending methods. Charlie and James share their personal journeys into the crypto space, their challenges, and triumphant milestones. They also delve into how Block Earner plans to disrupt the mortgage industry by accepting Bitcoin as a home deposit, making the Australian dream of property ownership achievable for new generations of investors. Finally, they explore the wider crypto adoption, global trends, and the evolving status of financial services in different markets, including Turkey.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:42 Big News: Series A Funding02:28 Crypto-Backed Loans: A Game Changer06:35 Charlie's Journey from Turkey to Australia11:02 James' Background and Startup Ventures13:30 The Birth of Block Earner20:45 Challenges and Lessons Learned36:24 The Australian Crypto Ecosystem40:51 Introduction to Turkey's Financial Struggles41:24 Personal Anecdotes of Inflation in Turkey42:19 Global Impact of Financial Mismanagement43:06 Crypto Adoption in Turkey43:20 Comparing Financial Systems: Australia vs. Turkey47:06 Decentralised Finance: A Global Solution57:50 Innovations in Crypto-Backed Home Loans01:04:39 Future of Crypto and Traditional Finance Integration01:11:13 Conclusion and Contact Information

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • #27. Joe Shew - CEO of the Crypto Consulting Institute on personal development & expanding the mind
    Aug 4 2025

    Exploring Crypto's Deep Impact on Personal Growth and Financial Freedom with Joe Shew | IR Podcast Ep27


    Brought to you by Independent ReserveIn episode 27 of the Independent Reserve Bitcoin & Crypto Podcast, host Lee Eaton welcomes Joe Shew from the Crypto Consulting Institute. They delve into Joe's journey in the crypto world, the founding and growth of the Crypto Consulting Institute, and the transformative power of crypto on personal finance. The discussion explores the interplay between crypto investments and personal development, the challenges of the current financial system, and the spiritual aspects of decentralised finance. Joe also shares his insights on current market trends, the evaluation of altcoins, and the future of crypto investing. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the holistic impact of crypto on both financial and personal growth.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:14 Guest Introduction: Joe Shew from Crypto Consulting Institute01:22 Joe Shew's Journey into Crypto05:46 Founding the Crypto Consulting Institute06:51 Educating Investors: CCI's Approach08:59 Psychology and Motivation in Crypto Investing33:11 Challenges and Scams in the Crypto World42:40 The True Motivation Behind Wealth43:02 Exploring DMT Experiences43:31 Transcending Limiting Beliefs46:43 Spirituality and Personal Growth47:39 Crypto and Personal Transformation52:52 Understanding Human Design55:07 Holistic Approach to Crypto Success01:04:28 The Role of AI in Crypto01:07:43 The Future of Crypto Regulation01:21:34 Current Market Insights and Strategies

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    1 hr and 28 mins
  • #26. Shane Brunette - CEO of CTC Australia. The rising complexity of calculating crypto tax for ATO
    Jul 21 2025

    Deep dive into crypto tax and blockchain innovations with Shane Brunette | IR Podcast Ep26


    Brought to you by Independent ReserveIn episode 26 of the Independent Reserve Podcast, host Lee Eaton welcomes Shane Brunette, the CEO of Crypto Tax Calculator (CTC). They discuss the inception and growth of CTC since its founding in 2018, and the complexities of crypto taxation, especially with emerging technologies like NFTs and decentralised finance. Shane shares insights into the evolving landscape of crypto tax compliance, the challenges businesses face, and the future of blockchain technology in accounting and beyond. Their conversation also touches on personal journeys, from Shane’s early career in AI and psychology to the impact of regulation on innovation. The episode is both informative and engaging for anyone interested in the intersection of crypto, tax, and technology.Please note: Lee incorrectly names this the 27th episode of the IR podcast; it is actually Episode 26!00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:52 The Journey of Crypto Tax Calculator01:31 Crypto Tax Challenges and Developments04:13 Complexities of Crypto Transactions08:40 Real-World Crypto Tax Scenarios12:02 The Future of Crypto Tax and Accounting25:38 Growth and Expansion of the Business32:49 Innovations and Future Directions42:43 Crypto's Popularity and AI's Fundamental Challenges43:19 Associative vs. Structural Intelligence in AI45:50 Transition from Psychology to AI and Software47:01 Journey into Crypto Tax50:11 Balancing Work and Personal Life52:30 Global Expansion and Market Leadership58:42 Personal Journey in Crypto01:00:48 Company Culture and Future Plans01:08:00 Concluding Thoughts and Shameless Plug

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • #25 - Chad Warner. Sydney Swans midfielder talking high performance, elite training & family success
    Jul 10 2025

    Join us for an engaging episode of the Independent Reserve Podcast, episode 25, featuring Chad Warner, the talented midfielder from the Sydney Swans AFL team. Chad shares insights into his journey from East Fremantle to becoming a key player for the Swans, the challenges and highlights of his career, and what it was like to debut during the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dive into the camaraderie and culture within the team, hear about memorable moments like Lance Franklin's 1,000th goal, and get a glimpse into the life of an AFL player both on and off the field. This episode is packed with fascinating stories, advice for aspiring athletes, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in professional football.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:15 Diving into Footy Talk01:26 Chad's Journey to the Sydney Swans02:36 Debut During COVID-1903:37 Growing Up in a Footy Family06:42 Training and Team Culture14:12 Challenges and Goals for the Season16:14 Locker Room Insights and Sledging Stories26:44 Transition in Club Leadership27:24 Memorable Moments in AFL History28:25 Country Footy and Player Payments30:34 Playing Style and Game Day Nerves40:42 Corporate Involvement and Fan Interactions47:47 Advice for Young Players and Parents49:44 Favourite Moments and Player Stories53:16 COVID-19 and AFL Debut54:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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    55 mins
  • #24. Steve Orenstein - CEO of an ASX listed company running Michael Saylor's BTC Strategy playbook
    Jun 12 2025

    In Episode 24 of the Independent Reserve Podcast, Lee Eaton sits down with Steve Orenstein, CEO of Locate Technologies. They discuss the groundbreaking initiative of incorporating Bitcoin into the company's balance sheet, making Locate Technologies the first ASX-listed Australian business to do so. Steve shares insights from his journey starting in 2014 with Zoom2U, and details the strategic shift towards integrating Bitcoin, inspired by Michael Saylor's playbook. The conversation dives into topics such as educating shareholders, overcoming resistance, the role of Bitcoin in long-term business strategy, and the broader global adoption of Bitcoin by businesses. It’s an engaging episode that bridges the world of traditional finance with innovative cryptocurrency strategies.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:23 Meet Steve Ornstein: Background and Business Journey01:01 The Bitcoin Strategy: Inspiration and Implementation02:23 The Journey to Listing and Investor Reactions03:46 Understanding Bitcoin: Personal Experiences and Insights07:01 Challenges and Convincing the Board10:13 Future Plans and Market Reactions12:10 Bitcoin Adoption and Market Dynamics19:37 Personal Bitcoin Strategies and Reflections26:02 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook34:11 Bitcoin's Influence and Public Perception36:37 Bitcoin Adoption and Custody Solutions38:42 Bitcoin in the Corporate World41:58 The Future of Bitcoin and Market Dynamics56:50 Quantum Computing and Bitcoin Security59:43 Personal Bitcoin Journey and Corporate Strategy

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • #23 - Steve Vallas & Richelle Cox from Blockchain APAC - Crypto Events, Politics & Wrestlemania
    Apr 29 2025

    In Episode 23 of the Independent Reserve Podcast, our host, Lee Eaton, is joined by Steve Vallas and Richelle Cox from Blockchain APAC. A discussion that has been planned since the very start of this podcast series, this episode covers a diverse range of topics from the intricacies of organising crypto events worldwide, the dynamic regulatory landscape, to the personal journeys and professional experiences in the blockchain space. Highlights include upcoming travels to key crypto conferences in Dubai and Zurich, the influence of AI in streamlining operations, and the evolution of risk and compliance roles. Steve and Richelle also touch on the cultural differences in the global crypto community, the importance of showing up, and reflections on their impact in fostering meaningful industry connections. There's also a surprising cameo from the Independent Reserve CEO, Adrian Przelozny! Brought to you by Independent Reserve00:00 Welcome to the Independent Reserve Podcast00:22 Special Guest: Steve Joins the Show01:32 Travel Plans and Upcoming Conferences02:28 NFTs and Their Comeback04:01 Blockchain APAC: The Journey and Challenges08:01 The Evolution of Blockchain Events15:55 Global Perspectives and Local Challenges17:32 The Impact of Global Politics on Crypto20:07 Surprising Insights and Personal Stories21:31 Special Guest Appearance: Adrian Joins the Conversation28:10 The Physical Toll of Squash and Jiujitsu28:25 The Humbling Experience of Jiujitsu29:25 The Squash to Crypto Pipeline30:33 The Athleticism of LP31:29 Steve's Wandering and WrestleMania34:44 The Importance of Showing Up39:11 Rochelle's Journey and Dedication47:00 The Future of Crypto Regulation51:44 The Growing Acceptance of Crypto55:03 Predicting the Future: A Flawed Approach55:13 Technology Adoption: Exponential Growth55:59 Resistance to Change: Human Nature56:36 Financial Advice in the Digital Age57:06 The Disconnect in Understanding Consumer Behavior57:29 The Role of Social Media in Modern Communication58:55 The Impact of Aging on Innovation59:58 Adapting to New Consumption Habits01:01:01 The Evolution of Business and Career Paths01:03:17 The Importance of Networking and Exposure01:07:31 The Maturation of the Crypto Industry01:10:41 Exploring Opportunities in Dubai01:12:47 Regulatory Challenges and Global Competition01:18:05 The Importance of Efficient Communication01:19:48 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Reflections01:22:19 A Lighthearted Conclusion

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    1 hr and 25 mins
  • #22 - Jock Haslam & Fletcher Roberts - Hashlock Web3 security audits, crypto start-ups and bad actors
    Apr 3 2025

    In Episode 22 of the Independent Reserve Podcast, Lee Eaton dives into the world of Web3 security with the boys from Hashlock, Jock and Fletcher. This episode explores the dynamic and fast-paced world of Web3, the challenges, and the interesting projects at Hash Lock, a leading Web3 security firm specializing in smart contract auditing and holistic blockchain security. The discussion covers their intriguing journey, the importance of security in blockchain adoption, real-world security challenges, and personal anecdotes from crypto events and travels. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the intersection of technology, security, and the future of decentralized networks.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:22 Early Year Activities and Market Trends01:24 What is Hashlock?02:27 Dubai Token Event and Travel Stories07:01 Hash Lock's Global Team and Operations09:33 Client Projects and Web3 Security11:13 Challenges and Opportunities in Web323:01 The Genesis of Hash Lock36:40 Startup Pace vs. Government Regulation36:53 Karaoke Adventures and Japan Trip37:23 Web3 AI Event and Karaoke in Japan38:30 Karaoke Culture in Korea and Australia39:26 Memorable Karaoke Experiences41:50 Interesting Vulnerability Exploits42:21 Dark Hotel Trojan and Malware Incidents46:54 Personal Impact of Working in Cybersecurity57:05 Family Life and Work Balance01:04:08 Upcoming Events and Team Bonding01:05:34 Conclusion and Contact Information

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • #21 - Amy-Rose Goodey. Head of DECA (Blockchain Australia) and her fight for fair crypto regulations
    Feb 26 2025

    In Episode 21 of the Independent Reserve Podcast, Lee Eaton catches up with Amy Rose Goody, CEO of DECA (formerly Blockchain Australia), about her pivotal role in working behind the scenes with politicians, government, and lawyers on cryptocurrency regulation. In this enthralling chat, we explore the evolution of the industry, progress with parliamentary blockchain initiatives, and challenges around fit-for-purpose legislation. The conversation delves into the economic impact of blockchain, the role of start-ups, and the regulatory environment in Australia, also touching upon the importance of global collaboration and commitment to innovation. Amy also shares insights on the state of the crypto market, scam prevention efforts, and her vision for a transparent political system enabled by blockchain technology.Brought to you by Independent Reserve 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:18 Regulation and Industry Progress01:39 Challenges and Historical Context02:41 Current Industry Landscape05:47 Political Influence and Public Perception06:11 Independent Reserve Crypto Index09:02 Future of Crypto and Technology13:19 DECA and Industry Collaboration17:48 Youth and Technology24:46 Global Perspectives and Innovation32:10 Government and Industry Collaboration33:19 Opportunities Abroad for Start-ups34:26 Challenges in the Australian Start-up Ecosystem36:16 Fragmentation in the Crypto Industry38:10 Scams and Fraud Prevention42:22 The Role of Technology in Scam Prevention45:57 Personal Scam Stories56:11 The Global Nature of Scams59:38 Crypto Industry Trends in Australia01:01:11 Crypto Industry Growth and Participation01:03:12 NFTs Beyond Art: Real-World Applications01:06:21 Government Accountability and Transparency01:08:06 Personal Crypto Investments and Experiences01:11:10 Regulatory Guidance and Industry Consultation01:20:24 Future of Decentralized Systems and Politics01:26:27 Conclusion and Contact Information

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    1 hr and 28 mins