Episode
Natalie Smolenski: "We're In Dark Times" — The Rise of Counter-Elites & the Bank-State War Machine
- Published
- Apr 21, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2615
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Summary
Natalie Smolenski is an anthropologist, software executive, editor of the Satoshi Papers, and one of the most original thinkers in the Bitcoin space. We explore America's national identity crisis, the bank-state relationship that funds war and destroys purchasing power, and why individual financial sovereignty is the only meaningful response to systems that can't be voted away. Topics include: Why you can't vote your way out of the bank-state nexus — and what you can do instead The erosion of free speech, privacy, and individual rights in the digital age How the financialization of everything destroyed community, care, and trust The rise of counter-elites and what it means for ordinary Americans Why Bitcoin self-custody is the most powerful political act available today ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a busine…