Unlocked - The Emerge21 Podcast

In 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 how Bitcoin Network Ireland aims to change that. The housing crisis: how financialization and distorted incentives have driven unaffordability. Bitcoin’s store of value role, its adoption trajectory, and Ireland's potential turning point. Why fixing the money fixes much of the economic dysfunction we see today. An insightful, solution-focused discussion for those passionate about Bitcoin, policy, and Ireland’s future. Key Topics Covered: Introduction First guest on the Emerge21 Podcast: Richard O'Hagan, Bitcoin advocate and co-founder of Bitcoin Network Ireland. Richard's Background Military service in Lebanon and Syria shaped his understanding of broken financial systems. Transition from law to Bitcoin advocacy and global perspectives. Bitcoin Network Ireland Why it was founded to bring Bitcoin discussions into mainstream Irish policy and education. Goals: Advocacy, education, and sensible Bitcoin policies. Ireland's Housing Crisis The root cause: Broken fiat incentives, over-financialization, and distorted credit systems. The role of Bitcoin as a solution to fix the base layer of economic problems. Bitcoin Adoption and Future Outlook Why Ireland lags in Bitcoin understanding and adoption. How institutional investments and global policy changes will accelerate Bitcoin’s role. Richard’s optimistic 5-7 year outlook for Bitcoin’s adoption trajectory in Ireland and globally. Closing Thoughts Fixing the money fixes the system. The importance of constructive advocacy and education for policymakers. 🔗 Follow Richard O'Hagan and Bitcoin Network Ireland: Bitcoin Network Ireland: https://bitcoinnetwork.ie/ Rich on X : https://x.com/richohagan Articles by Rich: https://bitcoinnetwork.ie/broken-money-and-irelands-housing-affordability-crisis/ https://richmoney.substack.com/p/the-investors-case-for-bitcoin https://richmoney.substack.com/p/2022-and-the-rise-of-bitcoin-anti https://bitcoinnetwork.ie/a-response-to-the-ecbs-flawed-discourse-on-bitcoin/ 📢 Don't miss future episodes where we discuss Bitcoin’s impact on businesses, policies, and individuals. Subscribe now! Connect with Us: Visit ⁠Emerge21⁠ for resources, events, and consulting services.Learn more about Emerge21: htttps://www.emerge21.com Join the Bitcoin Breakthrough Live Event ⁠https://www.emerge21.com/bitcoinbreak...⁠ Recommended Reading: Why Bitcoin by Chris McLaughlin ⁠https://amzn.to/3MLy29d⁠ Follow Us on Social Media for updates on educational content and events. X - ⁠https://x.com/Emerge_21⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠ / emerge21 ⁠ Instagram: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/emerge.21/ Facebook: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/emerge21official/

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 business owners, Bitcoin enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the intersection of technology and finance, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and thought-provoking perspectives. Don’t miss their next episode featuring a special guest from Bitcoin Network Ireland! Tune in and be part of the revolution! Key Topics Covered: 1. Why Businesses Need Bitcoin Now The evolving role of Bitcoin as a store of value and why it’s crucial for protecting your business against inflation. Real-world examples of businesses already adopting Bitcoin to secure their financial future. 2. Bitcoin Payments: Is It Worth It? The practical benefits of accepting Bitcoin payments, including reduced fees, cross-border efficiency, and access to a growing community of Bitcoin users. Overcoming the barriers: addressing setup costs, capital gains tax, and customer adoption challenges. 3. Simplifying Bitcoin Payments Solutions for businesses of all sizes: Lightning Network for instant, low-cost transactions. Liquid Network for secure, scalable payments. User-friendly tools like CoinCorner and Zaprite to get started quickly and easily. 4. The Marketing Edge of Bitcoin Adoption How accepting Bitcoin can make your business stand out and attract like-minded, forward-thinking customers. Bitcoin as a talking point to educate and engage your local community. 5. The Five-Year Outlook Predictions for how Bitcoin will integrate into mainstream business operations by 2030. Why businesses that adopt Bitcoin early will gain a competitive edge in the evolving global economy. 6. Challenges to Watch Addressing misconceptions about Bitcoin in the media. Navigating tax complexities and educating your accountant about Bitcoin’s potential. Resources Mentioned: CoinCorner - https://www.coincorner.com/ Bitcoin payment solutions. Zaprite - https://zaprite.com/ Easy invoicing for Bitcoin payments. Musqet - https://musqet.tech/ BTC Map - https://btcmap.org/ Find Bitcoin-accepting businesses worldwide. Connect with Us: Visit ⁠Emerge21⁠ for resources, events, and consulting services.Learn more about Emerge21: htttps://www.emerge21.com Join the Bitcoin Breakthrough Live Event ⁠https://www.emerge21.com/bitcoinbreak...⁠ Recommended Reading: Why Bitcoin by Chris McLaughlin ⁠https://amzn.to/3MLy29d⁠ Follow Us on Social Media for updates on educational content and events. X - ⁠https://x.com/Emerge_21⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠ / emerge21 ⁠ Instagram: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/emerge.21/ Facebook: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/emerge21official/

In 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 reflections on proof-of-work as a guiding principle in life and work. Personal Connections to Proof-of-Work (4:01–10:00): Chris shares insights from post-football exhaustion and how it symbolizes effort and reward. Alan reflects on the mental proof-of-work required in parenting, highlighting how patience and persistence pay off. The Intersection of Bitcoin and Nature (10:01–25:00): Exploring the parallels between Bitcoin’s proof-of-work mechanism and natural systems: Decentralization as a reflection of natural order: decentralized ecosystems thrive by fostering resilience and diversity, just as decentralized finance promotes fairness and accessibility. Practical lessons from nature and Bitcoin for building systems that are sustainable and aligned with long-term growth. Takeaways and Applications (25:01–End): How to apply proof-of-work in personal and professional life: Final reflections on how Bitcoin’s design principles can inspire not just financial systems but also healthier, more sustainable ways of living. Connect with Us: Visit ⁠Emerge21⁠ for resources, events, and consulting services.Learn more about Emerge21: htttps://www.emerge21.com Join the Bitcoin Breakthrough Live Event ⁠https://www.emerge21.com/bitcoinbreak...⁠ Recommended Reading: Why Bitcoin by Chris McLaughlin ⁠https://amzn.to/3MLy29d⁠ Follow Us on Social Media for updates on educational content and events. X - ⁠https://x.com/Emerge_21⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠  / emerge21  ⁠ Instagram: ⁠  / emerge.21  ⁠ Facebook: ⁠  / emerge21official

Episode 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 you're a seasoned investor or just beginning to explore Bitcoin, this conversation offers valuable perspectives to help you find clarity amid chaos. Show Notes: Introduction to the challenges of navigating volatile markets. How Bitcoin adoption can outpace inflation and provide long-term stability. Practical techniques for "cutting through the noise" in financial news and media. The importance of avoiding sensationalism and staying focused on fundamentals. Predictions and key trends to watch in the next financial cycle. Strategies for staying optimistic and informed during market downturns. Resources Mentioned: Emerge21 Bitcoin Breakthrough Summit – Accelerate your understanding of Bitcoin. Insights into managing emotional responses to market fluctuations. Connect with Us: Visit Emerge21 for resources, events, and consulting services. Learn more about Emerge21: htttps://www.emerge21.com Join the Bitcoin Breakthrough Live Event https://www.emerge21.com/bitcoinbreak... Recommended Reading: Why Bitcoin by Chris McLaughlin https://amzn.to/3MLy29d Follow Us on Social Media for updates on educational content and events. X - https://x.com/Emerge_21 LinkedIn:   / emerge21   Instagram:   / emerge.21   Facebook:   / emerge21official