Best POD256 Podcasts (2026)

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100. Dismantling the Black Box: Hydra Pool, Libre Board, and a Fully Open Miner Demo 1:36:57

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7d ago1:36:57

1:36:57

In our 100th episode, we celebrate three years of POD256 and almost two years of building the open-source Bitcoin mining stack. We share behind‑the‑scenes stories from our first Telehash block find and chart what’s coming for 2026. We walk through how the 256 Foundation allocated over $400k in grants across Ember One (open hashboard design), Libre …

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Code Is Not Crime: Samourai Petition, Pool Scams, and Open Mining Tools 2:24:47

21d ago2:24:47

2:24:47

In today’s POD256, we opened with a timely update on the Change.org petition to pardon Samourai Wallet developers Bill and Keonne. We dug into confusing verification flows, the low conversion rate from views to valid signatures, why pseudonyms and disposable emails are allowed, and why donations on Change.org don’t reach the families; direct suppor…

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098. From Mauritius to Modular Miners: Open-Source Bitcoin Mining, Direct-DC Solar, and Hydra Pool 1:58:56

25d ago1:58:56

1:58:56

In this episode, eco & Tyler welcome back Skot who was at the African Bitcoin Conference, this year hosted in Mauritius, where he spoke on open-source Bitcoin mining. We swap travel tales (including Scott’s chaotic Paris layover) and impressions of Mauritius, the conference venue, and side events focused on Bitcoin education. We dig into mining hea…

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097. From Lab to Hash: Ember One, Libre Board, and an Open-Source Mining Future 1:38:06

1M ago1:38:06

1:38:06

In this episode of POD256, Tyler and eco catch up on winter in Colorado, project trucks, and then dive deep into the latest in Bitcoin mining and freedom tech. We recap last week’s conversation with Keonne Rodriguez of Samourai Wallet, the urgent push for signatures on the pardon petition, and practical ways to support; while clarifying privacy-fri…

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096. From Open Source to Federal Sentence: The Government vs. Samourai Wallet 2:08:38

1M ago2:08:38

2:08:38

In this urgent and heartfelt conversation, we sit down with Keonne Rodriguez, cofounder of Samourai Wallet, to unpack his prosecution and five-year federal sentence for building noncustodial Bitcoin privacy software. From the government’s shifting theory of “unlicensed money transmission” to conspiracy charges built on out-of-context tweets and sli…

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095. Open-Source or Bust: Mujina, Miner Firmware Wars, and the Future of Trustless Hashing 1:32:25

2M ago1:32:25

1:32:25

In this episode, we go deep on the shifting landscape of Bitcoin mining hardware, open-source firmware, and why trustless stacks matter for miners big and small. Fresh off the local Bitcoin++ in Durham, we recap the vibe: a developer-heavy crowd, real collaboration between devs and miners, and our announcement of the Mujina developer preview—an ope…

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094. PPLNS, Pick-and-Place, and Pardon: A Deep Dive into Mining and Freedom Tech 1:17:54

2M ago1:17:54

1:17:54

In episode 94 of POD256, we cover a full slate of Bitcoin mining and freedom tech updates from Nashville to Denver. We recap the Bitcoin Veterans telehash fundraiser that briefly peaked near 98.5 PH, discuss PPLNS dynamics at Ocean and Slush/Brains, and explore Square’s new Lightning payments rollout. We share a field report from installing an imme…

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093. Decentralize or Die: Open Miners, Pool Payouts, and the Certification Gauntlet 2:00:22

2M ago2:00:22

2:00:22

In this episode, we dive into Canaan’s surprising GitHub drop and what it could mean for open-source mining, license tangles and all. We unpack the inclusion of CGMiner, the BSD-3 vs GPLv3 conflict, and Canaan’s RISC-V K230 SDK. We also explore the Nano 3/Nano 3S design, home-mining momentum, and the practical realities of certification (FCC/UL/CE/…

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092. Hashrate at Home: Zigbee Thermostats, Bitaxe Wins, and Dockerized Pools 2:15:16

2M ago2:15:16

2:15:16

In this episode, we range from ice-cold mornings and sunny Colorado skies to a deep dive on home mining, heat reuse, open hardware, and sovereign home automation. We recap getting featured in Forbes on Heat Punk projects and how mainstream coverage is finally grokking mining-as-heat, Canon’s heating-first designs, and Bitmain’s market dominance ris…

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091. Hash, Heat, and Hardware: LibreBoard, Mujina, and the BitAxe Battle 1:41:51

3M ago1:41:51

1:41:51

In this episode, we go deep on two fronts: protecting open-source projects from trademark hijacking and advancing real-world hash rate heating. We share the ongoing battle to oppose fraudulent USPTO filings on the BitAxe mark, why “TM” vs. registered matters, and how we’re navigating opposition, Madrid Protocol options, and the broader goal of keep…

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090. Make Every Meetup a Pool: Stratum v2, Hole Punching, and Open Mining 1:22:16

3M ago1:22:16

1:22:16

In this episode of POD256, we go deep on open-source Bitcoin mining with live updates from TabConf. We kick off with some tax-day banter and quickly shift into the real meat: the imminent release of Mujina; an open-source, Rust-based, modular mining firmware designed for flexibility (think hot-swappable hashboards, per-chip capability-aware work as…

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089. Copyleft and Cold Rooms: Open Hardware, Passive Heat, and Economic Nodes 1:09:02

3M ago1:09:02

1:09:02

In this episode, I host a deep dive on open-source Bitcoin mining hardware and network policy. We kick off with updates on the Ember One v5 hashboard design: a modern, smarter voltage regulator with digital telemetry and over-temp safeguards, header breakouts for optional fan-control daughterboards, and the tradeoff of dropping 24V input in favor o…

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088. Freedom Tech in Action: Open Miners, Sovereign Homes, and the Post-ImagineIF Debrief 55:04

4M ago55:04

55:04

In this episode, the crew reunites post-ImagineIF to debrief an energizing week across Bitcoin, AI, energy, and Freedom Tech. Rod thanks the team and presenters for delivering high-signal talks within tight constraints, and we reflect on why keeping events intimate translates into more action at the community level. We hit the State of the Network,…

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087. Heat, Hash, and Hardware Freedom: Live at Bitcoin Park 1:29:09

4M ago1:29:09

1:29:09

Live from Bitcoin Park in Nashville during the Bitcoin Custody & Treasury Summit week, we sat down with Skot, Ryan, and Tyler for a deeply technical, candid, and fun conversation about open-source Bitcoin mining. We covered the buzz around the Park, the upcoming ImagineIF conference, and why decentralizing mining hardware, firmware, and pools matte…

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086. Open Source vs. Closed Source: The Future of Bitcoin Mining 1:49:34

4M ago1:49:34

1:49:34

In this episode of POD256, we dive into the intricacies of Bitcoin mining, focusing on the controversial topic of developer fees in third-party miner firmware. We explore the pros and cons of these fees, discussing how they serve as a monetization strategy for developers who enhance firmware with features like auto-tuning and better efficiency. The…

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085. Proto Launch Party Live: Night 2 33:29

4M ago33:29

33:29

In this episode, we broadcast live on August 14, 2025 from Dalton, Georgia at the second evening of the Proto Mining Rig launch event, where we dive into an exciting event focused on Bitcoin mining innovations. Our hosts, joined by guests like Marty Bent & Brad Cuddy, discuss the advancements in Bitcoin mining technology, particularly the new hardw…

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084. Proto Launch Party Live: Night 1 42:44

4M ago42:44

42:44

In this lively episode recorded live on August 13, 2025 during the first night of the Proto Mining Rig launch event, we gather at an undisclosed location with a group of passionate Bitcoin enthusiasts, including Steven Wilson of Wilson Mining and Tyler Stevens. The conversation kicks off with the excitement of meeting online friends in person and t…

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083. Breaking New Ground: The Arrival of Intel BZM2 Chips 1:12:26

4M ago1:12:26

1:12:26

In this episode, we dive into the exciting developments in the Bitcoin mining industry, focusing on the recent arrival of Intel BZM2 chips at the 256 Foundation. Our hosts discuss the logistics of receiving and distributing these chips, the challenges of reverse engineering without documentation, and the potential for open-source hardware projects.…

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082. Decentralizing Bitcoin Mining: Challenges and Opportunities 1:13:58

4M ago1:13:58

1:13:58

In this episode of Pod 256, hosts Skot, eco, and Tyler dive into the world of Bitcoin mining, exploring the intricacies of chip communication and reverse engineering. Skot shares his recent adventures with some new Antminer S23 chips, detailing his attempts to configure them for optimal mining performance despite lacking official documentation. The…

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081. Revamping Bitcoin Mining: From Cool Runnings to Cutting-Edge Tech 47:16

5M ago47:16

47:16

In this lively episode of Pod 256, the hosts dive into a variety of topics, starting with a nostalgic discussion about the classic movie "Cool Runnings" and the evolution of in-car entertainment systems. The conversation then shifts to welcome Tyler, a new addition to the podcast, who shares his passion for bringing Bitcoin mining back home through…

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080. The Chilling Effect: Legal Risks in Privacy Software Development 43:19

5M ago43:19

43:19

Keywords: Samourai Wallet, legal implications, plea bargain, conspiracy charges, Bitcoin, privacy software, chilling effects, sentencing, industry response, political implications, open source Summary: The conversation delves into the legal challenges faced by the developers of Samourai Wallet, focusing on the implications of their plea bargain, th…

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079. Hydrapool Testnet Launch Nears as Miners Prep 43:41

6M ago43:41

43:41

Keywords: Bitcoin, mining, 256 Foundation, Hydrapool, custody, treasury, research, family travel, London, cultural experiences Summary: In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss their recent family trip to London, sharing experiences from cultural attractions to food adventures. They transition into updates on the 256 Foundation and the Bitc…

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078. Devs on Trial. Privacy on the Line 48:48

6M ago48:48

48:48

Keywords Bitcoin, network, user experience, node technology, custody strategies, legal challenges, infrastructure, mining, privacy Summary The conversation delves into the current state of the Bitcoin network, discussing user experience challenges, innovations in node technology, custody strategies, and the legal landscape surrounding cryptocurrenc…

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077. Battle of the Minehackers with Stephen DeLorme 1:20:04

6M ago1:20:04

1:20:04

Keywords Bitcoin, ATL BitLab, Bitcoin mining, regulation, self-custody, community, innovation, hackathon, design, technology, Bitcoin mining, cooling solutions, open source, decentralization, hackathons, zeolite clay, hardware innovation, miner efficiency, UTXO, embedded systems Takeaways Stephen DeLorme is a product designer at Voltage and runs AT…

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076. Keeping Open Source Channels Open 52:49

6M ago52:49

52:49

Keywords Bitcoin, mining, 256 Foundation, open source, technology, community, ASIC, market dynamics, predictions, education Summary In this episode of Pod 256, the hosts discuss various aspects of the Bitcoin mining community, including updates on the 256 Foundation, experiences from a recent meetup in Belgrade, and innovations in mining technology…

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075. Sourcing Chips and Building Bitaxes 52:08

7M ago52:08

52:08

Keywords: Bitcoin, mining, technology, donor advised funds, health, community, hackathons, decentralization, open source, market trends Summary: In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to Bitcoin mining, including the impact of donor advised funds, recent developments in mining technology, health and wellness practices within…

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074. Europe has no Air Conditioning 50:45

7M ago50:45

50:45

Keywords London, travel, nicotine, Bitcoin, community, mining, Stratum V2, open source, efficiency, business models Takeaways Rod shares his experiences in London, highlighting cultural differences. Traveling with kids can be challenging, especially with daylight issues. Nicotine use and its effects are discussed in a personal context. The state of…

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073. The AI Panopticon and Las Vegas 1:03:16

7M ago1:03:16

1:03:16

Keywords N8n, AI workflows, data privacy, Bitcoin mining, cryptocurrency, LLMs, dystopian futures, AI implications, blockchain technology, community in crypto Summary This conversation delves into the intersection of AI and cryptocurrency, particularly focusing on the use of N8n for AI workflows, the implications of AI on society, and the future of…

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072. The Gift of Community in the FOSS Space 53:17

8M ago53:17

53:17

Keywords Bitcoin, Samurai Wallet, legal updates, community support, Bitcoin mining, technology, hackathon, network state, innovation Summary The conversation covers a range of topics related to Bitcoin, including legal updates on the Samurai Wallet case, community engagement, reflections on Bitcoin culture, innovations in mining technology, and upc…

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071. Reviewing the First Ever Texas Energy and Mining Summit 55:12

8M ago55:12

55:12

Keywords Bitcoin, Texas, OSMU, 256 Foundation, BTC++, open source mining, community trust, Bitcoin network, Telehash, transparency Summary In this engaging conversation, the hosts reflect on their recent experiences in Texas, discussing the significance of local history, the success of the BTC++ conference, and the dynamics within the OSMU and 256 …

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070. Hydrapool is Live and the Texas Energy and Mining Summit is Almost Here 1:05:43

8M ago1:05:43

1:05:43

Keywords Bitcoin, HydroPool, TeleHash, Ember One, OpReturn, Samurai Wallet, mining, fundraising, community, technology Summary In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to Bitcoin mining, including the launch of HydroPool, updates on the Ember One project, the upcoming TeleHash event, and the ongoing Samurai Wallet case. They d…

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069. The Nonce is a Myth and Bitcoin Social Scalability 1:05:22

9M ago1:05:22

1:05:22

Keywords Bitcoin, mining, nonce, decentralization, open source, UTXO Live, Freedom Tech, SHA-256, mining hardware, community engagement Summary In this episode, the hosts delve into the complexities of Bitcoin mining, discussing the myth of the nonce, the efficiency of mining strategies, and the importance of open-source solutions. They explore rec…

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068. The Wordpress of Mining Pools with @Jungly 1:00:08

9M ago1:00:08

1:00:08

Keywords Bitcoin, Hydro Pool, mining, decentralization, community, payouts, innovation, education, consensus, technology Takeaways Jungly's background in distributed systems enhances the Hydro Pool project. Community engagement is crucial for Bitcoin's growth and innovation. Bitcoin serves as a solution for those distrustful of traditional financia…

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067. Meet Ryan, Open Source Mujina Firmware Developer 48:10

9M ago48:10

48:10

Keywords Bitcoin, Mugenia Firmware, Open Source, Mining, Community, Technology, Innovation, Grassroots, Firmware Development, Bitcoin Park Summary In this engaging conversation, the hosts welcome Ryan to discuss the Mugenia Firmware Project, a significant initiative aimed at dismantling the proprietary mining empire in Bitcoin. They explore the imp…

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066. Bitcoin Mining is the Killer App with Michael Schmid 1:21:15

9M ago1:21:15

1:21:15

Keywords lot lizards, Schnitzel, Libre Board, Bitcoin mining, decentralized mining, home heating, control systems, open source hardware, mining stack, business opportunities, Bitcoin, mining, air conditioning, absorption chilling, network state, hash rate, technology, community, innovation, efficiency Summary In this conversation, the hosts discuss…

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065. How Bad Chainalysis Data Hurts Freedom Technology 1:10:07

10M ago1:10:07

1:10:07

Keywords Bitcoin, open source, community, veterans, mining, regulation, privacy, Samurai Wallet, memes, technology Summary In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore a variety of themes surrounding Bitcoin, community, and the impact of technology on society. They discuss the significance of stickers and memes in communication, the role of mil…

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064. The Power of Donor Advised Funds in Supporting Mining Innovation 1:28:05

10M ago1:28:05

1:28:05

Keywords: Bitcoin, Donor Advised Funds, DAF, Philanthropy, Tax Benefits, Bitcoin Donations, Charitable Giving, Financial Planning, Cryptocurrency, Non-Profit, Bitcoin, mining, technology, health, projects, community, innovation, funding, network, updates Summary In this conversation, the hosts discuss the concept of Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) with …

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063. Solo Mining--What the Heck is Even That? 1:10:03

10M ago1:10:03

1:10:03

Keywords: Bitcoin, mining, Bidax, solo mining, CK pool, open source, mining technology, efficiency, community, cryptocurrency Summary In this conversation, the hosts discuss the latest updates in Bitcoin mining, focusing on Bidax's recent achievements and the operational expertise required for successful mining. They delve into the differences betw…

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062. How Community Supported Bitcoin Mining Works in Practice. 1:11:34

10M ago1:11:34

1:11:34

Keywords: Bitcoin, Bitcoin Park, home mining, community, Intel chips, grants, events, hash rate, media coverage, mining strategies Summary The conversation covers various aspects of the Bitcoin community, including the importance of physical spaces like Bitcoin Park, influential figures in the Bitcoin space, the home mining revolution, and the need…

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061. Open Sourcing Everything: From Chip to Firmware, Software and More 1:33:54

10M ago1:33:54

1:33:54

Keywords Bitcoin mining, Adit board, modular systems, open source, community collaboration, heat reuse, project management, market insights, future of mining, Bitcoin, market trends, investment strategies, privacy, KYC, regulatory challenges, Bitcoin mining, community support, education Summary This conversation explores the intersection of fitness…

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060. WE HIT A BLOCK (Behind the Scenes) 1:04:54

11M ago1:04:54

1:04:54

In this episode of Pod 256, the hosts discuss their journey leading up to the Telehash event, the challenges faced during solo mining, and the excitement of hitting a block. They delve into the future projects of the 256 Foundation, the importance of open-source mining, and the support they are receiving from the community. The conversation highlig…

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058. From Nairobi to Nashville, Rise of Open-Source Bitcoin Mining, Telehash, and More 49:17

1y ago49:17

49:17

In this episode, we dive into our experiences at the Africa Bitcoin Conference, where Skot and Eco were treated like rock stars, especially Eco with his beard, which became a sensation among the locals. We share amusing anecdotes from our travels, including encounters with the Maasai Mara tribesmen and the seamless use of Bitcoin through the Tando …

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057. From Sweden to Silicon: Bitcoin's Global Journey 58:57

1y ago58:57

58:57

Summary: This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at Bitcoin Park on November 4, 2024. In this episode, we dive into a lively discussion with our guests who have traveled from far and wide, including a memorable visit from Calle from Sweden, who shared his insightful books on Bitcoin. We also engage in a humorous debate about the price…

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056. From Grilling to Mining: The Birth of a Bitcoin Meetup 49:31

1+ y ago49:31

49:31

Summary: In this lively episode, we dive into the spontaneous and community-driven spirit of Bitcoin Park, where the idea of hosting a monthly mining meetup was born. The episode kicks off with a humorous recount of how a simple message about grilling burgers led to acquiring a high-end griddle, setting the tone for the casual yet passionate discus…

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055. Ditching Shampoo and Embracing Raw Milk: A Journey to Natural Living 52:04

1+ y ago52:04

52:04

Summary: In this episode, we dive into personal preferences and lifestyle choices, starting with a discussion on the use of lotion and hair products. We explore the benefits of natural skincare products, like those from Farrow, and the decision to stop using shampoo. The conversation shifts to water quality and the importance of filtering out toxin…

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054. Lighting Up the Studio and the Bitcoin Network with Rob Warren 1:32:30

1+ y ago1:32:30

1:32:30

Summary: In this episode, we kick things off by discussing the new studio setup, including a major lighting upgrade that frees up floor space and enhances the overall environment. This change is especially timely as we welcome our first guest, Rob Warren, back to the show. Rob has been busy since his last appearance, having published a book and att…

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053. From Ice Cream to Encryption: Navigating Temptations and Privacy Concerns 57:10

1+ y ago57:10

57:10

Summary: In this episode, we dive into the challenges of willpower and temptation, particularly around the irresistible allure of ice cream. We share personal anecdotes about the struggle to resist indulgent treats and the humorous consequences that follow. The conversation then shifts to the benefits of removing temptations and creating friction t…

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052. From Owls on Cocaine to Bitcoin Mining: A Wild Ride 57:37

1+ y ago57:37

57:37

Summary: In this episode, we dive into a myriad of topics ranging from the addictive nature of social media to the highs and lows of drug use. We discuss the surprising revelation that Donald Trump has never consumed alcohol and his appearance on Theo Vonn's podcast. The conversation takes a humorous turn with anecdotes about feeling like an owl on…

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051. Mining Mondays and Making Bitcoin Mining Free and Open 45:00

1+ y ago45:00

45:00

Summary: Welcome back to Pod 256! In this episode, Eco and Rod discuss the exciting upgrades to their recording studio, courtesy of Bitcoin Park. They express their gratitude to ODELL for allowing them to launch the new setup before his next recording. The hosts delve into the importance of consistency in podcasting and how their new equipment will…

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050. Building a Bitcoin-Powered Homestead with Rev Hodl 1:02:38

1+ y ago1:02:38

1:02:38

Summary: In this episode of Pod256, we are joined by the innovative and resourceful Rev Hodl, who shares his journey from the film industry in Los Angeles to becoming a homesteader in Michigan. Rev Hodl discusses his transition to a self-sufficient lifestyle, integrating Bitcoin mining into his homestead projects, and the principles of home mining.…