Summary
In this episode of the ATX DAO Podcast, Luke and Ash welcome Michael J. Kelly, better known as The Bitstorian. A professor of religious studies and founder of the first Bitcoin research lab on a U.S. campus, Michael bridges theology, history, and technology in surprising ways. From “render unto Caesar” as a prophecy for sound money to building miners that double as heated toilet seats, he shows how Bitcoin reshapes everything from faith to engineering.
The conversation dives into decentralizing mining, educating Gen Z on Bitcoin, and reimagining higher education through proof-of-work systems. Expect thought-provoking insights, humor, and bold ideas, including what it means to write history on-chain. Whether you’re crypto-curious or a longtime Bitcoiner, this episode will challenge how you think about money, meaning, and the future of innovation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bitcoin and Theology00:39 The Intersection of Bitcoin and Religious Studies04:45 Establishing a Bitcoin Research Lab08:16 Decentralization and Financial Literacy10:21 Challenges of Decentralized Mining13:03 Engaging the Next Generation with Bitcoin16:58 Innovative Mining Solutions and Education22:14 The Role of History in Bitcoin27:10 Empowering Students through Bitcoin Education34:46 Future of Education and Bitcoin
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