Texas Block-Cast

The Texas Blockchain Council is a nonprofit industry association made up of companies and individuals that work in a variety of industries that are connected to Bitcoin, crypto and blockchain technology. We are working together to make the State of Texas the jurisdiction of choice for blockchain innovation. This podcast is meant for entertainment purposes and not meant as investment advice. All investment strategies and investments involve risk of loss. Nothing contained in this video should be construed as investment advice. Any reference to an investments past or potential performance is not, and should not be construed as, a recommendation or as a guarantee of any specific outcome or profit. The opinions expressed in the podcast do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Texas Blockchain Council or its members.

Ep. 48 Shaping the Future: Key Insights from Texas on AI and Digital Assets Regulation | Steve Kinard 06/26/2025

Ep. 48 Shaping the Future: Key Insights from Texas on AI and Digital Assets Regulation | Steve Kinard As the landscape of artificial intelligence and digital assets evolves, Texas is at the forefront, pioneering legislation that could set the tone nationwide. Recently, the Texas legislative session addressed critical bills, notably impacting AI innovation and the digital assets industry. Establishing the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve In an ambitious move, Texas has introduced the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Bill, permitting the allocation of $10 million in taxpayer funds to invest in Bitcoin. While some may question the appropriateness of state involvement in digital currency, this legislation is a strategic effort to normalize and prepare for digital asset integration into state economies. By dedicating $10 million—merely 0.0004% of the state's budget—Texas sets a precedent for balancing innovation with fiscal responsibility. Navigating AI Regulation with Light Touch Governance House Bill 149 is at the heart of Texas's regulatory approach, emphasizing minimal regulation while safeguarding privacy. Unlike stringent models seen in other states, this bill avoids stifling innovation. It focuses on biometric data protection and informed consent, ensuring that AI development respects individual privacy. The creation of the Texas AI Council further supports this light-touch framework by offering expert guidance, maintaining innovation, and avoiding legislative overreach. Public Sector Ethics and Transparency in AI Senate Bill 1964 prioritizes ethical AI usage in the public sector. It mandates the development of a government ethical code, ensuring transparency in AI adoption and vendor selection. Significantly, this bill promotes local ethics guidelines, resisting influence from global entities. The goal is to preserve Texas's autonomy in forging an AI policy that prioritizes transparency and respects free speech, especially concerning open-source development. Federal Alignments and Looking Ahead At the federal level, ongoing discussions may further refine AI and digital asset legislation. Notably, proposed federal bills aim to balance state autonomy with national coherence. Texas's proactive stance offers a model for integrating these emerging technologies responsibly. As the landscape changes, maintaining a dialogue between state initiatives and federal legislation will be crucial for shaping effective, forward-thinking policies. Texans and policymakers nationwide are urged to engage with these legislative changes, recognizing the potential implications for the future of AI and digital assets. For decision-makers in technology and education sectors, understanding these developments helps in strategizing how best to leverage emerging state and federal regulations. To learn more about these legislative changes and collaborative opportunities, consider attending the upcoming U.S. Strategy in AI and Crypto event at the National Press Club on July 8th. This event will offer networking opportunities and insights into how these legislative dynamics might influence your organization. Visit for more details. /episode/index/show/67ac4492-fe46-497e-b69d-454925d61ca7/id/37164560

Ep. 47 Dr. Adam Back: Decoding the Technological Evolution in Bitcoin 06/12/2025

Ep. 47 Dr. Adam Back: Decoding the Technological Evolution in Bitcoin Decoding the Technological Evolution in Bitcoin: Insights from Dr. Adam Back Bitcoin's Technological Milestones and Their Impact on the Digital Economy Dr. Adam Back, a seminal figure in the cryptocurrency world, recently shed light on Bitcoin's considerable progress and its ramifications for the global digital economy. His discussion delves into the early days of Bitcoin, innovative strides in blockchain technology, and the pivotal role of Bitcoin mining in sustainable energy advancements. The Genesis and Evolution of Blockstream Dr. Back's journey took a significant turn in 2013 when he recognized the necessity for Bitcoin's technological enhancement and privacy features, leading to the foundation of Blockstream. He detailed the company's evolution from enhancing Bitcoin’s base layer with features like Confidential Transactions and Schnorr Signatures, towards pioneering the Liquid Network—a sidechain fostering rapid innovation without altering Bitcoin's core. Bitcoin Mining: A Catalyst for Renewable Energy Use The discourse further extended into Bitcoin mining’s profound influence on renewable energy utilization. Dr. Back highlighted Blockstream’s strategic shift towards mining operations that leverage underutilized hydro energy, demonstrating a symbiotic relationship between advanced technology deployment and environmental preservation. This approach not only promotes sustainable energy utilization but significantly boosts local economies through infrastructure development and job creation. Challenges and Innovations in Blockchain Technology Dr. Back also touched upon the ongoing debates like the OpReturn battle, reflecting on its implications for blockchain’s scalability and security. He passionately detailed how each technological strife paves the way for innovative solutions that continue to secure and decentralize the network, advocating for a balanced approach in managing technological enhancements and community interests. Embracing Future-Ready Cryptocurrency Solutions The revelations shared by Dr. Back underscore the continuous growth and impact of blockchain technologies on diverse industries, including energy, cybersecurity, and digital finance. Ensuring active participation in this evolution is crucial for businesses aiming to stay ahead in the digital curve. For executives and decision-makers, taking the lead in adopting and integrating these advanced digital solutions can propel your organization into new heights of operational efficiency and strategic relevance. Explore cutting-edge solutions and expert guidance by visiting and stepping into the new era of digital finance and blockchain technology. /episode/index/show/67ac4492-fe46-497e-b69d-454925d61ca7/id/36961750

Ep. 46 State of Play: Digital Assets Policy at the State Level | Rep. Giovanni Capriglione and Arry Yu 05/01/2025

Ep. 46 State of Play: Digital Assets Policy at the State Level | Rep. Giovanni Capriglione and Arry Yu U.S. Blockchain and Fintech Roundup: Upping the Ante for Innovation in 2025 In a lively conversation, Representative Giovanni Capriglione and Arry Yu provided engaging insights into innovative moves predicted for the American blockchain and fintech sectors in 2025. The pair discussed the formation and growth of the U.S. Blockchain Coalition, the diverse role states play in policy development, and the increasing significance of digital assets. Yu focused on fostering open dialogue between states to propel legislative evolution, while Capriglione championed the importance of forward-thinking Texas in the innovation space. Blockchain Collation: A Journey of Collaboration and Progress Yu gave a brief account of the U.S. Blockchain Coalition's journey since its formation in May 2021. Catering to a vast membership spanning almost 50 states, U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and even parts of Canada, the Coalition centers on community coordination and insightful thought leadership. Notably, policy implementation depends on each state's familiarity and readiness to accept digital asset policies. The State's Role in Fintech: Banking on Innovation Both Capriglione and Yu discussed the financial areas generally covered by states, compared to those addressed at the federal level. With money transmission and payments usually falling within state jurisdiction, the rise of modern elements like stablecoins presents new challenges and opportunities for states in the upcoming legislative season. The completion of laws like the UCC Article 12 will likely feature prominently on many state's legislative agendas. Ushering in the Future, State by State The 2025 legislative cycle promises to be exciting, with an array of innovative proposals predicted. They range from fresh additions like decentralized autonomous organizations (DAO) defense legislation to tweaking existing laws around AI and cybersecurity. The engagement of private and public sectors is vital to ensure that these technological advancements serve the wider community beneficially. To delve deeper into these compelling topics, read the full conversation, join the discussion, and stay informed about future developments in U.S. blockchain and fintech legislation. Discover how individual states lead the way in digital innovation and consider how these advances may impact your sphere. Sound off in the comments section below. Share this post to spread the word and ensure your voice is heard as we journey toward the future of U.S. blockchain and fintech. Stay up to date with everything Bitcoin, Blockchain, Energy, Fintech, & Policy in Texas: Follow our Social Media: /episode/index/show/67ac4492-fe46-497e-b69d-454925d61ca7/id/36134895