S3 E9: Ragnar Lifthasir on Bitcoin and Mental Health

Ragnar Lifthasir has been involved in the Bitcoin space since 2011 and is best known for as an advocate for gun ownership. As a way of defying expectations and generating a fresh discussions, we mutually agreed to have an hour-long conversation which completely avoids the topic of guns – instead, we talked about the reasons why Ragnar got into Bitcoin, the development of the network overtime, and some issues related to the community that Satoshi’s invention can fix.

Most interestingly, we approached the topic of mental health and how there are instances when the hardcore libertarian mindset might be detrimental for an individual’s happiness. Our conclusion is that no matter how much BTC you own or aspire to own, it’s important to have friends and family members with whom you can share experiences and exchange opinions. Sound money is great, saving is an excellent idea, but spending some quality time with people who care about you is also an essential part of living a good life.

When the conversation isn’t so deep, it concerns some technical and ideological aspects regarding the Lightning Network, Blockstream’s Liquid federated sidechain, and the narrative of Bitcoin.

The episode is available on Spotify and iTunes.

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Starting this season, 25% of all donations will go to the Free Ross campaign, to help Ross Ulbricht get a second chance. The draconian sentence that he received should concern every bitcoiner around the world, as the government which poses as a champion of liberty gives a double life sentence for indirect and non-violent crimes involving Bitcoin. 

It’s a slippery slope that should concern us all, regardless of the jurisdiction under which we find ourselves. The case of Ross Ulbricht has set a dangerous precedent all around the world, as lesser democratic countries can simply prosecute bitcoiners under similar charges and with outcomes that are just as harsh. 

If Ross was to receive clemency or at least a second trial with another judge by taking into account the new evidence, the decision would get noticed by judges and politicians worldwide. Whether we like it or not, the USA is an example for the rest of the world and we can actually try to make a difference in a positive sense.

As usual, 50% of BTC earnings will be sent to the guest. In this situation, Ragnar will be rewarded for his time, effort, and knowledge.

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