The Peer to Peer Policy Podcast

The Peer to Peer Policy Podcast

Live from the Washington, D.C., and Austin, TX, policy experts discuss the intersection of Bitcoin, energy, politics, business, and more. Brian Morgenstern is SVP of public policy for Riot Platforms, one of the world's leading Bitcoin mining companies. He previously served as White House deputy press secretary and deputy communications director for President Trump. He was also senior advisor and deputy assistant secretary of the U.S. Treasury Department. Zach Whiting is manager of public policy at Riot Platforms. He previously served as policy director and senior fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, state senator from Iowa, and policy advisor to a member of Congress. Subscribe and follow us on all platforms! Rumble YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcast Index iHeartRadio Podcast Addict Podchaser Deezer PlayerFM Castbox Goodpods TrueFans

Episodes

August 22, 2025 41 mins

In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed two questionable crypto bills. 
  • The politics of bad crypto policies can alienate potential voters. 
  • Wyoming's stablecoin aims to establish the state as a leader in digital assets. 
  • Tether's new hire, Bo Hines, signals a push for a stronger U.S. presence in the crypto market. 
  • AI adoption could lead to significant savings and increased producti...
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From June 17, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • Trump's support for bitcoin marks a significant political shift. 
  • The Bitcoin mining industry is gaining mainstream recognition. 
  • Criticism of Trump's bitcoin stance reflects deeper political divides. 
  • The Bitcoin Voter Project aims to mobilize bitcoin supporters in elections. 
  • Biden's political viability is increasingly questioned. 
  • The Democratic Party may ...
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In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • BREAKING NEWS: The U.S. government will not be buying more Bitcoin, which has disappointed many in the crypto community. 
  • The executive order on retirement accounts aims to democratize access to alternative assets for investors. 
  • Debanking practices have been criticized as un-American and now banks will be held accountable. 
  • AI is creating efficiencies in the justice system, potentially dem...
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From June 4, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • Trump's conviction has paradoxically increased his popularity. 
  • The backlash from the conviction has radicalized new supporters for Trump. 
  • Democrats may be miscalculating the political fallout from the conviction. 
  • The case against Trump is seen as politically motivated by many. 
  • Billionaires are increasingly supporting Trump, signaling a shift in elite opinion. 
  • The c...
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From May 30, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • The future of crypto and bitcoin is seen as being made in the USA. 
  • There are 50 million Americans holding digital assets, influencing political decisions. 
  • Voters are increasingly concerned about the implications of a central bank digital currency (CBDC). 
  • Supporting bitcoin is a politically astute strategy for candidates. 
  • Trump's endorsement of bitcoin has sparked a...
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From May 20, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • SAB 121 is a significant bill affecting crypto custody by banks. 
  • The bipartisan support against SAB 121 indicates a shift in crypto politics. 
  • Elizabeth Warren's anti-crypto stance is losing traction among lawmakers. 
  • FIT 21 aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets. 
  • The crypto community is becoming more politically engaged and influen...
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In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • The White House report on digital assets marks a significant shift in policy. 
  • The administration emphasizes the need for American leadership in AI and energy. 
  • Operation Choke Point 2.0 is officially declared dead by the Trump administration. 
  • The digital asset report opposes retail CBDCs due to risks to individual rights. 
  • Bitcoin miners are recognized for their role in energy stability an...
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From May 14, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • Trump's recent endorsement of crypto could sway voters in the upcoming election. 
  • There are over 52 million Americans holding digital assets, with Bitcoin being the most popular. 
  • The Biden administration's stance on crypto has created a clear political divide. 
  • Voters are increasingly looking for candidates who support self-sovereignty and individual empowerment...
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In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • Crypto Week was a significant success with strong bipartisan support. 
  • The AI Action Plan focuses on innovation and American values. 
  • The NASDAQ and S&P 500 are experiencing record highs. 
  • Crypto-backed loans are becoming a reality in the lending market. 
  • Legislative efforts are underway to address bitcoin tax issues. 
  • There is a growing optimism about the future of the economy. 
  • The impor...
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From May 6, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • Bitcoin ETF has seen a wild ride with significant price fluctuations. 
  • Institutional interest in Bitcoin is growing, indicating a bright future. 
  • The metaphor of Bitcoin as digital gold may limit its perception. 
  • Inflation is a pressing concern for many Americans today. 
  • Bitcoin offers a decentralized alternative to traditional banking systems. 
  • The political landscape in D.C...
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In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • The US government may not hold as much Bitcoin as previously thought. 
  • The price of Bitcoin has recently surged past $122,000. 
  • Owning Bitcoin directly differs significantly from owning it through ETFs. 
  • There is a strong push against central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). 
  • Bitcoin mining taxation should align with commodity taxation principles. 
  • Pennsylvania is politically appealing for si...
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From April 30, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • The world is facing significant challenges, including protests and violence.
  • Recent government actions indicate a growing war on cryptocurrency wallets. 
  • Self-custody of assets is becoming increasingly difficult due to regulations. 
  • Privacy rights are essential for individuals, especially in non-democratic countries. 
  • Bitcoin serves as a tool for human rights activists gl...
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In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill, but there was significant political drama on the floor and behind the scenes. 
  • Tax cuts in the bill primarily benefit lower and middle-class Americans. 
  • The narrative that tax cuts favor the wealthy is misleading. 
  • Tax certainty is essential for fostering business development in the U.S. 
  • Energy independence is a critical component of the bi...
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From April 23, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • The recent foreign aid package highlights a disconnect between Congress and the American people. 
  • The national debt continues to rise, raising concerns about misplaced priorities in government spending. 
  • The Repo Act could set a dangerous precedent for asset seizure without due process. 
  • Seizing assets from one country to give to another could undermine trust in the US d...
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From April 16, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • Bitcoin's volatility is influenced by global events and market maturity. 
  • Gold's historical stability contrasts with bitcoin's current price fluctuations. 
  • The U.S. debt crisis raises questions about the dollar's future as a reserve currency. 
  • Taxation and inflation are perceived as burdens by many Americans. 
  • Bitcoin is seen as a potential solution to...
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From April 3, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • The US government holds over 200,000 Bitcoin, making it a significant player in the market. 
  • Recent movements of Bitcoin by the government are likely related to auctioning seized assets. 
  • The Bitcoin halving on April 20 will cut mining rewards in half, potentially impacting price. 
  • Institutional interest in Bitcoin is growing, with ETFs attracting billions in investment. 
  • ...
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In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • Middle East tensions and the impact on oil prices and markets. 
  • Bitcoin's market has matured, showing resilience during geopolitical crises. 
  • The Bitcoin Policy Summit highlighted the growing interest and involvement in bitcoin policy. 
  • Bitcoin voters represent a diverse demographic that influence elections. 
  • Bitcoin serves as a tool for freedom in oppressive regimes worldwide. 
  • Texas Go...
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From March 21, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • Bitcoin's price volatility is normal and part of its cycle. 
  • Long-term trends show Bitcoin as a store of value. 
  • Energy abundance is crucial for future economic growth. 
  • The Biden administration's energy policies may hinder progress. 
  • Compute power will be essential for future technologies. 
  • Political allegiances among crypto voters are shifting towards Trump. 
  • Gr...
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In this episode, Brian and Zach discuss: 

  • The Trump Media ETF 
  • Altcoin founders dumping their coins to buy bitcoin 
  • Bitcoin, markets, and Middle Eastern conflict 
  • U.S. Senate passes the Genius Act 
  • The pace of innovation 
  • Bitcoin, AI, HPC, and energy 
  • 2025 Bitcoin Policy Summit 
  • Kimi Antonelli's first F1 podium 
  • The Pope joins White Sox chants at the Vatican 
  • And more! 

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From March 14, 2024. 

In this episode, Brian and Sam discuss: 

  • Bitcoin's price surge is driven by institutional adoption and ETF inflows.
  • The upcoming Bitcoin halving will further tighten supply, potentially increasing demand.
  • Bitcoin serves as a hedge against inflation and a check on monetary policy.
  • Governments are beginning to recognize Bitcoin's value as a stable asset.
  • Cultural shifts are leading to a broader acceptanc...
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