Coming to you straight from the lively halls of the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, this episode of the on-site podcast features a vibrant and inspiring guest: Alexandra Overgaag, the Founder and CEO of Thrilld Labs. Hosted by the ever-curious Sebastian Grube, the conversation flows with warmth, laughter, and some seriously refreshing insights about what it means to build a more inclusive Web3 world.

Alexandra’s journey into blockchain is anything but ordinary. With a background in law and political science, she pivoted from legacy institutions into the world of Web3, driven by a desire to create meaningful change from the ground up. That desire took shape in Thrilld Labs, a platform that’s on a mission to make professional networking in the blockchain space free, accessible, and genuinely useful for everyone—regardless of where they’re from or how well-connected they are.

As the official networking partner of this year’s summit, Thrilld Labs is already playing a key role in fostering global collaboration. Alexandra talks about what drew her to Blockchain Ireland in the first place (spoiler: it involved a warm introduction and a lot of community spirit) and shares her excitement about the people and ideas that make the summit so special.

She also highlights a standout talk about El Salvador’s adoption of Bitcoin and how blockchain is helping rebuild societies. It’s a moment that reflects her wider passion for using tech to create real-world impact. Alexandra doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff either. She opens up about the challenges women face in the Web3 space and makes a compelling case for more inclusive investment practices.

From decentralised ticketing tools to a new Thrill token on the horizon, Thrilld Labs is clearly on an exciting path—and Alexandra brings us along for the ride with honesty, heart, and humour. Whether you’re a builder, a believer, or just blockchain-curious, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, hopeful, and maybe just a little more Thrilld.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Name: Alexandra Overgaag - Founder & CEO, Thrilld Labs

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-overgaag/

https://www.thrilldlabs.io

https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrilld-labs/

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About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025 on-site podcast, where we bring you the conversations that matter most in the world of blockchain and digital finance. In this episode, host Sebastian Grube sits down for an engaging chat with Previn Singh, Executive in Residence at Global Digital Finance (GDF), and someone who knows a thing or two about how to bridge gaps between traditional finance and the fast-moving world of crypto and blockchain.

Previn kicks things off by sharing what brought him to the summit this year—spoiler alert: it wasn’t just for the coffee. He talks about the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone and your own industry bubble to really listen and learn from other sectors, something that’s become a bit of a mission for him. And with his career spanning big-name banks like Credit Suisse and Deutsche Bank, Previn’s got a unique perspective on how the old guard and the new wave can—and should—work together.

At the heart of this episode is the conversation about tokenisation of real-world assets. Previn gives us a peek behind the curtain of GDF’s work to standardise data, create clear frameworks, and bring industry participants together. He explains how tokenising things like equities and bonds can remove friction in financial transactions, speeding up settlement times and freeing up capital. And while that might sound like serious finance talk, Previn keeps it relatable, showing us the very real opportunities that blockchain can unlock when applied thoughtfully.

The chat also dives into the broader ecosystem that makes all this possible. Previn highlights that it’s not just banks and exchanges involved, but also fund managers, regulators, fintech innovators, and yes, the DeFi natives who bring fresh ideas to the table. He shares his vision for the next year—where small blockchain pilots grow into large-scale ecosystems powered by real network effects, delivering value far beyond what any single organisation could achieve alone.

This episode is a warm, insightful, and forward-looking conversation about the future of finance. Whether you’re a blockchain beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of where the industry is heading and the collaborative spirit that’s driving it forward. Grab your headphones and enjoy this inspiring discussion straight from the heart of the Blockchain Ireland Summit.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Guest: Previn Singh - Executive in Residence, Global Digital Finance

https://www.linkedin.com/in/previn-singh-a68878b/

https://gdf.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-digital-finance/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode recorded live at the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, host Sebastian Grube welcomes a very special guest from across the Atlantic — Victor Cabral, Head of Partnerships at Blockchain Rio and founding team member of Regdoor. What follows is a fast-paced, insightful, and thoroughly enjoyable conversation about all things blockchain, South America, and the power of international collaboration.

Victor shares why he made the trip from Brazil to Dublin, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Blockchain Rio — a powerhouse platform that’s doing far more than just hosting conferences. From uniting regulators and innovators across Latin America to building global partnerships that extend from El Salvador to Singapore, Blockchain Rio is on a mission to make South America a central player in the blockchain world. And with nearly 18,000 attendees at last year’s main event, it’s safe to say they’re doing something right.

Sebastian and Victor also dive into some hot-button topics in the blockchain space, including the supposed rivalry between stablecoins and CBDCs. Victor clears the air with a thoughtful take: it’s not a competition — both can coexist and support different needs within a broader financial ecosystem. He also touches on exciting developments in Brazil around the tokenization of real-world assets, especially in the real estate sector, where blockchain is beginning to have a real impact.

We also get a sneak peek into Regdoor, Victor’s new startup designed to support regulatory and policy teams in the digital asset space. With its launch coming this August, Regdoor aims to simplify complex workflows and make navigating compliance a lot smoother for blockchain companies everywhere.

This episode is a warm reminder that the blockchain revolution isn’t happening in silos — it’s happening through conversations like this, across borders and across perspectives. So, grab a coffee, tune in, and enjoy this vibrant exchange between two passionate advocates for a more open, innovative, and connected blockchain future.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Guest: Victor Cabral - Head of Partnerships, Blockchain RIO

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-cabral-legal/

https://blockchainrio.com.br/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-rio/

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About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025 podcast, we’re joined by the insightful and ever-passionate Alison McMurtrie, Founder of iDunn Consulting and co-founder of Equisscore Emerging VC. Alison brings a refreshingly human perspective to the world of blockchain, sharing her journey from discovering the technology nearly a decade ago to now helping startups and innovators turn big ideas into practical, impactful solutions. With her deep experience and no-nonsense approach, Alison talks about why the blockchain community needs to move beyond buzzwords and focus on trust, usability, and — most importantly — real-world use cases.

During our conversation, Alison unpacks the ways blockchain is quietly reshaping our lives through innovations like stablecoins, decentralized finance, and digital identity. She’s a big believer that the true value of blockchain will shine when it becomes so normal, we don’t even talk about it — like having a website or using AI. She also highlights how trust was damaged in the crypto frenzy, and why clear communication, better user experiences, and smart regulation are key to rebuilding it.

We also dive into Alison’s work with Equisscore Emerging VC, where she champions “tech for good” and impact-driven startups. With climate challenges looming and outdated financial systems still in place, Alison makes a powerful case for why it’s time to fund the changemakers — the people building technologies that will actually move the needle.

And of course, we couldn’t finish without touching on her advocacy with AWIC. From pushing for gender-balanced panels to creating welcoming spaces for newcomers, Alison reminds us that the Web3 space is better when it’s inclusive and collaborative.

So whether you’re a blockchain newbie or a seasoned builder, this episode offers a warm, thoughtful, and forward-looking conversation that just might reignite your excitement for what blockchain can become. Tune in and be inspired by one of the ecosystem’s most grounded and visionary voices.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Guest: Alison McMurtrie - Founder and CEO, iDunn Consulting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonmcmurtrie/

https://www.idunn.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/idunnconsulting/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, this special episode brings you a front-row seat to one of the most exciting conversations happening in Ireland’s Web3 space. Host Sebastian Grube chats with Alejandro Gutierrez — Director of Blockchain Ireland and lead of the newly launched Solana Superteam Ireland — about the future of blockchain, grassroots innovation, and why Ireland is quietly becoming a powerhouse in the decentralised world.

Alejandro shares his journey of helping grow the Solana Superteam from scratch into a thriving accelerator for developers, builders, and entrepreneurs in Ireland. With regular meetups, deep community engagement, and a strong focus on long-term business sustainability, the Superteam is already making waves. From hackathons to pitch mentoring, Alejandro and his team are proving that when you invest in local talent, big things happen.

In this heartwarming and insightful chat, you’ll hear about why diversity, collaboration, and education are key pillars of a strong ecosystem. Alejandro gets candid about the challenges and opportunities in bringing non-technical people into the fold, why DeFi still excites him, and how blockchain could find new applications in pharma, biotech, and health sciences — all industries deeply rooted in Ireland’s economy.

There’s also plenty of optimism about the future. Alejandro talks about the upcoming Build Station event, the goal of getting Irish projects funded on the European stage, and what he hopes to see change by 2026 — including more grassroots support and government engagement.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build a blockchain community from the ground up, this episode is full of passion, purpose, and plenty of laughs along the way. Tune in for an honest and energising look at Ireland’s growing Web3 movement and the people making it happen.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Guest: Alejandro Gutierrez – Lead, SuperTeam Ireland

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandro-gutierrez-98979b43/

https://bento.me/superteamie

https://www.linkedin.com/company/superteam-ireland/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode recorded live at the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, host Sebastian Grube catches up with the always-energetic Fran Meggs — Co-Founder and CEO of Crypto Cracker, proud member of the Blockchain Ireland Communications Working Group, and the official MC for this year’s summit. If you’ve been at the event, chances are you’ve seen Fran in action, keeping the crowd engaged, the schedule on track, and the energy buzzing.

Fran shares how his journey into the world of blockchain began back in 2021 when he and his team launched Crypto Cracker, a fun and friendly platform created to make sense of cryptocurrency and blockchain for everyday people. What started as a post-COVID project quickly turned into something much bigger — a gateway into Ireland’s growing Web3 community. It didn’t take long for Fran to get involved with Blockchain Ireland, and now he’s one of the most recognisable and enthusiastic voices helping shape its direction.

Sebastian and Fran chat about some of the standout moments from the summit’s first day, including a powerful talk by Juan Carlos from El Salvador. His story drew fascinating parallels between Irish and Salvadoran history and highlighted how times of crisis can spark innovation and opportunity. They also dive into the fast-moving world of AI, with Fran noting that it’s no longer just a futuristic buzzword — it’s very much here and already changing how we work and live.

Looking to the future, Fran expresses his excitement about how much the Blockchain Ireland ecosystem has grown — 33% by the numbers, and possibly even more in reality. He’s hopeful that by next year, the community will be even bigger, better, and more connected, with the message of blockchain reaching further into the mainstream.

This episode is a heartwarming reminder that behind every buzzy bit of tech jargon are real people, meaningful stories, and communities built on collaboration and shared curiosity. Whether you’re already deep in the blockchain game or just peeking in, you’ll enjoy this fun, insightful chat.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Guest: Fran Meggs - Co-Founder and CEO, Crypto Cracker

https://www.linkedin.com/in/franmeggs/

https://crypto-cracker.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/cryptocracker/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special on-site episode from the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, host Sebastian Grube chats with Colin Banville, Solutions Architect at Stripe, about how blockchain and stablecoins are reshaping global financial access—and why Ireland’s Web3 scene is on the rise.

Colin joins the podcast fresh from years in Australia and APAC, where he helped launch Salesforce’s Web3 studio. Now back in Ireland, he’s got a front-row seat to how the local blockchain ecosystem is evolving, and he’s here to share some big insights. From the rise of digital assets to the role Stripe is playing in expanding financial infrastructure through stablecoins, Colin gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how Stripe’s acquisition of Bridge is already opening doors in over 100 new markets, especially in emerging economies.

With real-world examples like freelancers in Nigeria getting paid in stablecoins or startups using tokens to access AI models, this conversation shines a light on how blockchain is being used practically—not just talked about. Of course, there’s also room for some cautious optimism. Colin points out that while stablecoins are showing huge promise, some parts of the ecosystem, like staking rewards, are still in early, maybe even slightly hyped-up territory.

The episode also touches on regulation, policy, and the importance of companies like Stripe engaging with governments to build trust and security around stablecoin adoption. Colin shares his hopes for Europe to embrace a more open, progressive approach—without simply copying the U.S.—and to create an environment where innovation and consumer protection can go hand in hand.

This warm and insightful chat is full of real talk, future thinking, and a touch of Irish optimism. Whether you're deep in the Web3 space or just curious about what’s next in fintech, this episode is a great listen. So sit back, hit play, and enjoy this grounded but hopeful conversation about where blockchain is going—and who it’s helping along the way.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Name: Colin Banville - Solutions Architect, Stripe

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbanville/

https://stripe.com/ie

https://www.linkedin.com/company/stripe/

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About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode recorded live at the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, host Sebastian Grube sits down with Dirk Hermans, Innovation and Blockchain Lead at KBC Bank & Insurance, for a warm and insightful chat about where blockchain is heading in the world of traditional finance. With nearly a decade of hands-on experience in blockchain, Dirk brings a thoughtful, no-nonsense perspective on what’s real, what’s hype, and how a major European bank is navigating the shifting tides of digital innovation.

Dirk reflects on his return to the Irish blockchain scene and shares why he sees Ireland as a standout hub for innovation. Spoiler: it’s all about collaboration. From regulators to startups to universities, the Irish ecosystem has something special going on—and Dirk isn’t shy about giving it credit. He also highlights his favourite speaker from the day, Jón Egilsson of Monerium, and discusses how Europe can do more to own its digital future.

The conversation explores how traditional finance and decentralised finance are no longer on opposite sides of the room. According to Dirk, they’re not married yet, but they’re definitely flirting. Topics range from the rise of stablecoins and real-world asset tokenisation to whether banks like KBC should offer their own crypto wallets. It’s not just about innovation for innovation’s sake—it’s about real use cases, regulatory readiness, and customer needs.

Dirk also shares KBC’s blockchain journey so far, including their own private blockchain initiative and the lessons learned along the way (yes, some experiments didn’t go quite as planned, and he’s totally cool talking about that). Looking ahead to the rest of 2025, KBC will be exploring whether it’s time to move from private to public blockchain infrastructure—and what role a trusted bank can play in that transition.

With a mix of humour, honesty, and genuine curiosity, this episode captures a moment of reflection and forward-thinking from one of Europe’s leading financial institutions. Whether you're a blockchain enthusiast or just blockchain-curious, Dirk’s grounded perspective is a breath of fresh air in a space that’s often high on hype and low on clarity.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Name: Dirk Hermans - Blockchain Lead, KBC Bank & Insurance

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirkhermans/

https://www.kbc.be/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kbc-bank-en-verzekering/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode recorded live at the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, host Sebastian Grube sits down with one of the brightest minds in Web3 — Stani Kulechov, founder of Aave, Avara, and Lens Protocol. If you’ve ever wondered where DeFi is heading or how blockchain could actually improve your everyday life (without needing to be a crypto wizard), this episode is for you.

Stani brings his signature down-to-earth clarity as he chats about Aave Labs’ exciting new launch in Ireland — the Family Wallet. Designed to make crypto more accessible to everyone, this wallet features a zero-fee on-ramp for users in Ireland, making it easier than ever to go from euros to stablecoins and back again. It's a big move that reflects Stani’s wider vision: bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralized systems, all while keeping things user-friendly.

The conversation flows naturally from local innovation to global impact, as Stani explains why Ireland isn’t just a picturesque destination — it’s a key hub for product testing, regulatory clarity, and exceptional tech talent. With a strong regulatory foothold as a VASP and a team on the ground, Aave Labs sees Ireland as the perfect place to incubate bold ideas before rolling them out to the rest of the world.

Of course, we couldn’t have Stani on without talking about the bigger picture. With Aave currently securing over $43 billion in deposits, it’s clear that DeFi is no longer just an experiment. Stani shares his insights into the rise of stablecoins, the promise of tokenizing real-world assets, and why he believes the next wave of adoption will be both institutional and consumer-driven.

This episode may be short, but it’s packed with optimism, innovation, and practical vision. Whether you’re a developer, a founder, or just someone curious about the future of finance, Stani’s outlook is both inspiring and refreshingly realistic. So grab your headphones, get comfy, and enjoy this thought-provoking chat from the heart of Dublin’s blockchain scene.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Name: Stani Kulechov - Founder & CEO

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stani-kulechov-361284132/

https://avara.xyz/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/avaraxyz/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode recorded live at the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, we’re joined by the ever-inspiring Dr. Lisa Cameron—President of The Financial Club and former UK MP—for a truly eye-opening and energising chat. From debating legislation in Parliament to leading global conversations on crypto regulation, Lisa has been at the heart of the blockchain conversation from the very start. And she brings that same passion and insight to our conversation on the podcast stage.

Lisa talks about her current work bringing together regulators, innovators, and lawmakers from around the world to help shape a future where blockchain can thrive. She shares stories from the summit floor, from conversations with founders forced to set up abroad due to red tape, to her ongoing mission to make the UK and EU more attractive for blockchain startups. With her work through The Financial Club and the UK-US Crypto Alliance, Lisa is leading the charge to create more open, collaborative, and future-focused regulatory environments.

But it’s not all policy talk—Lisa also lights up when talking about the real-world, human side of blockchain. From ensuring the authenticity of life-saving medicine, to giving people ownership of their health records, to helping MPs understand what tokenising property actually means (no, the houses don’t disappear), she makes a strong case for why this technology matters beyond the headlines. And through her efforts to educate lawmakers—literally taking them “back to school” at blockchain academies—she’s making sure decisions about the future are informed by real knowledge, not just buzzwords.

This episode is packed with heart, humour, and hope for what blockchain can be when the right people are in the room. If you care about where innovation meets impact, and how we can build bridges between visionaries and policymakers, this one’s not to be missed. Join us for a conversation that’s as insightful as it is inspiring.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Name: Dr Lisa Cameron – President, The Financial Club

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lisa-cameron-a8ba8a49/

https://www.financialclub.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/financialclub/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode recorded live at the buzzing Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, our host Sebastian Grube sits down with Andrew Mulvenny, General Manager of the Trading Platform at Kraken, for a lively and insightful conversation that captures the spirit of innovation and momentum in the crypto world right now.

Andrew joins us fresh from the stage and dives straight into what brought Kraken to this year’s summit, from its commitment to supporting the growing Irish and European blockchain community, to its excitement about the regulatory clarity brought by MiCA. There’s a real sense that 2025 is a turning point for the industry—and Kraken is leading from the front.

Throughout the episode, Andrew shares Kraken’s big moves this year, including the launch of Kraken Embed in partnership with Bunq, the acquisition of NinjaTrader in the U.S., and the rollout of tokenised equities for global markets. It’s all part of Kraken’s mission to break down the barriers between traditional finance and crypto, creating a more accessible, open financial future for everyone.

Sebastian and Andrew also reflect on what’s changed in the past year and where things are heading. With stablecoins gaining serious traction, tokenisation moving from hype to reality, and big-name partnerships like Kraken x MasterCard making waves, the conversation paints a picture of a sector that’s no longer just building—but delivering.

Looking ahead, Andrew shares his hopes for 2026, including mass adoption of tokenised assets and a new generation of users engaging with crypto in everyday life. If you’re interested in the real-world evolution of blockchain, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

So grab your headphones and tune in to hear how Kraken is shaping the future—one innovation at a time—from the heart of Dublin’s premier blockchain gathering.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Name: Andrew Mulvenny - General Manager

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-mulvenny/

https://www.kraken.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/krakenfx/

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About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special live episode from the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, recorded at the vibrant Trinity Business School, we sit down with Jón Egilsson, co-founder of Monerium and former Chairperson of the Central Bank of Iceland. Jón brings a rare mix of central banking experience and blockchain innovation to the table, and trust us—he doesn’t disappoint.

From the moment the conversation kicks off, Jón dives into why Ireland, why now, and what makes the Irish ecosystem such an exciting part of the EU’s blockchain evolution—especially with MiCA regulations coming into play. He walks us through Monerium’s journey, from being the first company licensed to issue euro-backed stablecoins, to integrating with the European payment system, making digital euros more accessible than ever.

But this isn’t just a story about financial infrastructure. Jón brings warmth, clarity, and even a bit of humor to the conversation as he explains how he uses his own crypto wallet in everyday life. From getting paid in euros to sending dollars to his son in the US, Jón’s life without a traditional bank sounds surprisingly smooth and incredibly efficient.

We also explore the explosive rise in stablecoin usage—over $33.5 trillion in the past year alone, surpassing Visa and MasterCard combined. With big players like Stripe, Meta, and BlackRock entering the arena, Jón shares why 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for real-world blockchain adoption.

If you're curious about how digital money is actually being used today, how Europe is positioning itself on the global crypto stage, or what the future holds for traditional banks, you’ll love this episode. It’s smart, it’s accessible, and it’s filled with insights that will leave you thinking long after the outro.

So grab your headphones, find a comfy spot, and join us for a warm and forward-thinking chat on the future of finance—with a healthy dose of real-world perspective.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Jón Egilsson - Co-founder at Monerium / Former Chairman of Central Bank of Iceland

https://www.linkedin.com/in/egilsson/

https://monerium.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/monerium/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode recorded live at the Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025, we’re joined by one of the most passionate voices in global blockchain regulation—Juan Carlos Reyes, President and Executive Director of El Salvador’s National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD). If you think “regulator” sounds like a dry job title, prepare to have that idea turned on its head. Juan Carlos brings energy, clarity, and a deep commitment to innovation as he shares El Salvador’s journey from legalising Bitcoin to creating a bold, tailor-made regulatory framework for digital assets.

Juan Carlos sits down with host Sebastian for a warm and insightful chat about what inspired his visit to Ireland, how CNAD came to be, and why traditional financial rules just don’t work when it comes to blockchain. He explains how El Salvador has taken a fresh approach, building regulation that fits the unique nature of digital assets rather than trying to squeeze them into outdated systems. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his real-world experience gives the conversation depth without losing the human touch.

We hear about the Center of Innovation for Digital Assets—CNAD’s initiative to create a safe space for startups and innovators to test their technology without the fear of falling foul of unclear rules. Juan Carlos makes it clear that most innovators don’t want to break the rules—they just need to know what the rules are. He also shares his strong belief in the power of tokenisation to transform access to financial markets, and why the future of blockchain is all about transparency, collaboration, and sensible regulation.

From Bitcoin to global partnerships, from regulation nightmares to hopeful futures, this episode is packed with stories, insights, and a few laughs along the way. It’s a conversation that proves you can talk about law, finance, and innovation—and still keep things real. Tune in for a thoughtful and uplifting conversation that shows what’s possible when leadership meets vision in the world of digital assets.

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Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/

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Host: Sebastian Grube - Co-Chair of Events and Communication Working Group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastiangrube/

Guests: Juan Carlos Reyes - President and Executive Director

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcreyes/

https://cnad.gob.sv/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/comision-nacional-de-activos-digitales/

_______________

About Blockchain Ireland

Blockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.

The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.

Follow us:

https://www.blockchainireland.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-ireland

https://twitter.com/blockchainireland/

https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/

https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.