The Get Down: Beyond Bitcoin

butterscotch Media

Welcome to "The Get Down" - butterscotch Media's gateway to inclusion in Web3, DeFi, Bitcoin. This is the only show exclusively focused on the largest adopters of crypto. Hear from diverse founders, executives, officials as they discuss the latest in policy, industry trends, market research. Tune in as host Ritzy P gets down with fascinating pioneers, change-makers, luminaries in the cryptoverse. 

  1. 2026 Crypto Policy Shifts and Scaling DeFi Infrastructure with Malik Corbett

    MAR 31

    2026 Crypto Policy Shifts and Scaling DeFi Infrastructure with Malik Corbett

    In this Season 2 premiere of The Get Down Beyond Bitcoin, host Ritzy P kicks off with a high-stakes look at the 2026 crypto landscape. The episode begins with a deep dive into Butterscotch Media’s second anniversary and the evolving state of digital asset regulation, followed by an interview with Malik Corbett, CEO of Hekaton, on the transition from traditional finance to decentralized innovation. Register for TRUST MEDIA: https://tr.ee/aYftUg All Things Butterscotch CEO Cleve Mesidor joins the show to discuss the growth of Butterscotch Media as a premier niche platform for policy and inclusion. The Trust Gap: Why niche media is overtaking legacy institutions in relevance and trust.2026 Policy Update: A breakdown of the Genius Act (Stablecoin Law) and the current battle in the Senate over market structure.The "Nerd Prom": Details on the upcoming Trust Media live journalism event in DC.Global Footprint: Insights from Davos 2026 and the rise of tokenization on the world stage.Interview with Malik Corbett (CEO of Hekaton) Malik shares his journey as an "Uber entrepreneur" and early DeFi pioneer, moving from a 15-year career at firms like Bloomberg and JP Morgan into the startup world. Defining DeFi: Malik provides a "one-minute definition" of DeFi as an alternative system that collapses the friction and costs of traditional intermediaries.The Atomic Vault System: An exclusive look at Hekaton’s new platform (launching Q2 2026) that allows users to earn yield through market-neutral strategies while maintaining self-custody.Founder Survival: Why "staying in the game" is the ultimate metric of success for minority founders in high-tech.The 2026 Forecast: A candid take on current macro forces, including persistent inflation and the urgent need for a Market Structure Bill before the 2026 midterm elections.About Malik Malik Corbett is the Co-founder and CEO of Hekaton, a proprietary trading company focused on digital assets. In addition to his technical duties as a quant engineer on the trading desk assisting the team in building trading infrastructure and strategies, Malik oversees the strategic and business direction of the firm. Malik’s career in finance has spanned over 15+ years, working for firms such as Bloomberg Financial, JP Morgan and MDSL. In 2014, Malik saw an emerging opportunity in the FinTech alternative data space; he joined iSentium as the Director of Sales where he led the company’s sales efforts. After working in the alternative data industry, Malik and Tynan Overstreet teamed up to form Hekaton. Malik brings a wealth of experience and technical skills along with strong leadership skills to help usher in the next generation financial trading firm. Links from the episode  CONNECT WITH Malik: X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/lionindayard LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malik-corbett-4a83a513/ Hekaton: https://www.hekatontrading.com/ The Atomic Vault System: https://www.atomicvault.xyz/ CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Register for TRUST MEDIA: https://tr.ee/aYftUg Check us out on our website butterscotch.media Subscribe to our weekly tipsheet Chews: https://butterscotch.media/subscribe Follow us on X:  https://twitter.com/butterscotch360 Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@butterscotchMedia

    51 min
  2. Crypto Regulation, Blockchain Advocacy & Women in Leadership with Kristin Smith

    05/06/2025

    Crypto Regulation, Blockchain Advocacy & Women in Leadership with Kristin Smith

    In this episode of The Get Down, we delve into the dynamic world of cryptocurrency policy and advocacy with Kristin Smith, a leading figure in the space. Cleve Mesidor, a longtime friend and collaborator of Kristin's, takes us on a journey through Kristin's impressive career, from her days on Capitol Hill to her pivotal roles as CEO of the Blockchain Association and soon-to-be President of the Solana Policy Institute.  Join us as we explore Kristin's vision for a balanced regulatory framework, her thoughts on women's leadership in the crypto industry, and some behind-the-scenes stories from her impactful career shaping the future of blockchain technology. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, Chews!  Kristin Smith is CEO of the Blockchain Association, the Washington DC-based trade association representing more than 100 of the industry’s leading companies. Kristin serves as a liaison between policymakers and the cryptocurrency industry to assist in the creation of legislation and regulation that promotes the growth of the cryptocurrency ecosystem in the U.S. She is also a leading, public voice advocating for the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry through top-tier media interviews, op-eds and letters to the editor, and global speaking engagements. Kristin is a renowned voice for the industry, having been featured on Fortune’s 2020 40 under 40 list, CoinDesk’s 2021 50 people who defined the year in crypto, and CoinTelegraph’s 2022 top 100 Influencers in Crypto and Blockchain. We discuss: The impressive growth of The Blockchain Association since its inception.The importance of collaboration among agencies for effective advocacy in Washington.How highlighting leading women role models in the industry can inspire younger women in tech and finance.How balancing regulation and innovation is essential for the crypto ecosystem. Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space. CONNECT WITH KRISTIN SMITH: X (formerly Twitter) LinkedIn The Blockchain Association CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Check us out on our website butterscotch.media and subscribe to our newsletter Follow us on X @butterscotch360 Watch our content on YouTube

    28 min
  3. Future of Blockchain: Legislation, Consumer Protection & Innovation with Congressman Darren Soto

    04/29/2025

    Future of Blockchain: Legislation, Consumer Protection & Innovation with Congressman Darren Soto

    In this episode of The Get Down, Cleve Mesidor interviews Congressman Darren Soto of Florida. Congressman Soto discusses his inspiration for becoming a crypto champion in Congress, his legislative achievements including the National Defense Authorization Act amendments, his vision for a smart regulatory framework, and more! Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, Chews!  Darren Soto was elected to Congress in 2016, representing Florida's Ninth District, becoming the first Floridian of Puerto Rican descent in Congress. An accomplished lawyer and legislator, he previously served in the Florida House and Senate for nearly a decade, focusing on job creation, environmental protection, healthcare, and education. In Congress, on the Energy and Commerce and Agriculture Committees, he advocates for healthcare access, climate action, technology, and consumer protection. We discuss: The current state of crypto policy and what's working (and what's not).Bipartisan efforts in advancing blockchain and cryptocurrency legislation.Consumer protection and risk mitigation in the crypto world.Financial inclusion and the potential for crypto to empower small businesses. Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space. CONNECT WITH DARREN SOTO: X (formerly Twitter) Facebook Instagram Website CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Check us out on our website butterscotch.media and subscribe to our newsletter Follow us on X @butterscotch360 Watch our content on YouTube

    29 min
  4. Bipartisan Progress in Blockchain Legislation with Former Congressman Wiley Nickel

    04/01/2025

    Bipartisan Progress in Blockchain Legislation with Former Congressman Wiley Nickel

    In this episode of The Get Down, Cleve Mesidor interviews former congressman Wiley Nickel, discussing his journey as a crypto advocate in Congress. They cover the importance of bipartisan efforts in shaping legislation around blockchain and cryptocurrency, the need for equitable consumer protectionand financial inclusion, the significance of stablecoin legislation, and more. Also, Ritzy P. and Cleve discuss the critical role of bipartisanship in advancing crypto policy and Financial Literacy Month. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, Chews!  Wiley Nickel was the US representative of the 13th District of North Carolina during the 118th Congress, serving a 50/50, toss up district in Raleigh and surrounding metro area. Wiley served on the Financial Services Committee and the Digital Assets subcommittee, and has been a champion for expanding the group for pro crypto Democrats. He led the way to secure support for 71 House Democrats on FIT21 and was a Democrat lead on the Congressional Review Act to overturn SAB121. We discuss: The importance of bipartisanship in crypto policy.The future of stablecoin and crypto legislation.Why consumer protection must evolve to include financial inclusion.Why public engagement is essential for legislative change. Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space. CONNECT WITH WILEY NICKEL: Website Instagram X (formerly Twitter) CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Check us out on our website butterscotch.media and subscribe to our newsletter Follow us on X @butterscotch360 Watch our content on YouTube

    30 min
  5. Web3 Policy & Education in Puerto Rico with Keiko Yoshino

    03/04/2025

    Web3 Policy & Education in Puerto Rico with Keiko Yoshino

    In this episode of The Get Down, host Ritzy P. talks with Keiko Yoshino, the executive director of the Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association. Keiko shares her journey into the world of blockchain and crypto, the founding of the association, her educational initiative CryptoCurious, and the importance of inclusivity in the crypto space. Keiko highlights the impact of her work on the local community, the significance of education in blockchain, and her vision for future initiatives. And in All Things butterscotch, Cleve Mesidor shares recent highlights of butterscotch Media, including getting officially trademarked, and the importance of focusing national policy on risk mitigation. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, Chews!  Keiko Yoshino, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association, is a crisis management attorney specializing in strategic communications and Government Affairs based in Puerto Rico. She helps startups and emerging tech companies navigate compliance and operations. Keiko is leading Web3 adoption through education, advocacy, and partnerships with government agencies and universities. She's also created CryptoCurious, an educational program making Web3 more accessible. Additionally, she spearheads Act 60 tax incentive education with the forthcoming guidebook on Puerto Rico's tax benefits. We discuss: How CryptoCurious was created to educate and engage the local population.The importance of inclusivity in Web3 and DeFi.Closing the digital divide in Puerto Rico with the NTIA digital literacy grant.The future of CryptoCurious and accessible education on Web3. Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space. CONNECT WITH KEIKO YOSHINO: Email LinkedIn X (formerly Twitter) CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Check us out on our website butterscotch.media and subscribe to our newsletter Follow us on X @butterscotch360 Watch our content on YouTube

    27 min
  6. Bridging the Gap: Making Web3 and DeFi Accessible for Spanish Speakers with Mónica Talán

    02/11/2025

    Bridging the Gap: Making Web3 and DeFi Accessible for Spanish Speakers with Mónica Talán

    In this special Spanish-language episode of The Get Down, host Ritzy P sits down with Mónica Talán, the founder of  CryptoConexión, who shares her journey into the crypto space and the inspiration behind creating  CryptoConexión - to provide accessible, Spanish-language content and resources to empower the Latino community to participate in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized finance and emerging technologies. The conversation delves into  CryptoConexión's initiatives, such as the Agent Camp bootcamp program, as well as Monica's insights on the vibrant crypto community in the United States and the transformative innovations happening across Latin America. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, Chews!  With more than two decades of experience in strategic communications and public relations, Mónica Talán is a dynamic entrepreneur and award-winning leader in the field of communications and innovation. She is the founder of CryptoConexión, a Spanish-language platform that drives awareness and engagement about blockchain and AI. In addition, she launched TechTranslators.ai, dedicated to making technology accessible through technology workshops. Bringing together a diverse team of experts in technology, communications, marketing, and law, TechTranslators.ai works to demystify complex concepts like AI, Web3, blockchain, and AR/VR. We discuss: Producing accessible crypto information in Spanish.The potential of blockchain technology in remittances.The explosion of innovation in Latin America, driven by emerging technologies.How political changes will affect Web3 and DeFi in the United States. Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space. CONNECT WITH MÓNICA TALÁN: LinkedIn X (formerly Twitter) CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Check us out on our website butterscotch.media and subscribe to our newsletter Follow us on X @butterscotch360 Watch our content on YouTube

    36 min
  7. Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection in the Crypto Space with Debra Brookes

    12/31/2024

    Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection in the Crypto Space with Debra Brookes

    In this episode of The Get Down, Ritzy P. interviews Debra Brookes about her professional journey, detailing her entry into the crypto space and her experiences with regulatory frameworks like the BitLicense. She discusses her current role in developing a state-issued stable coin in Wyoming, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with regulatory oversight. Debra also highlights the challenges faced by small players in the crypto market and offers insights on how they can navigate the complex landscape.  Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, Chews!  Debra Brookes is an attorney with over 20 years of experience, specializing in cryptocurrency compliance, sanctions enforcement, and  white-collar prosecutions. Deb recently joined the State of Wyoming’s  Stable Token Commission as its Chief Risk and Compliance Officer. Deb  previously worked with the NYS Department of Financial Services  (NYSDFS) where she held several positions, most notably Deputy Virtual Chief  and Head of Supervision, where she supervised over 30 licensed crypto companies. Before NYSDFS, Deb served as a federal prosecutor for the  U.S. Department of Justice through the competitive Attorney General's  Honors Program.  We discuss: Challenges with the New York BitLicense process.How balancing innovation and regulation is crucial for safety.The Wyoming Stable Token Commission’s mission to produce the first state-issued stablecoin.Significant shifts in US crypto legislation in 2025.Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space. CONNECT WITH DEBRA BROOKES: LinkedIn Wyoming Stable Token Commission CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Check us out on our website butterscotch.media and subscribe to our newsletter Follow us on X @butterscotch360 Watch our content on YouTube

    28 min
  8. Leveraging Web3 for Cultural Preservation and Economic Sovereignty with Richard Ng and Jake Foreman

    10/01/2024

    Leveraging Web3 for Cultural Preservation and Economic Sovereignty with Richard Ng and Jake Foreman

    In this episode of The Get Down, Ritzy P. interviews Richard Ng and Jake Foreman about  their journeys into the world of Web3 and the founding of IndigiDAO, an initiative aimed at empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs through decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). They discuss the core objectives of IndigiDAO, the impact of a significant grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the milestones they have achieved. The conversation also highlights the importance of community, the role of government in supporting micro enterprises, and personal insights from both founders.  Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, Chews!  Richard Ng is a seasoned social impact leader with over a decade of experience driving innovation and growth in both the nonprofit and for profit sectors, and currently is the Program Manager and Co-Founder of IndigiDAO, an initiative supporting indigenous entrepreneurs to set up economic cooperatives to create a kinship economy. Richard's passion for creating positive social change is evident in his impactful work across a range of industries. Henry Jake Foreman MCRP is a specialist in facilitation, development, and implementation of engaging learning experiences for students of all ages and has created a variety of curricula around education, health, and entrepreneurship. He is the founder of Karuna Colectiva, a social enterprise that delivers the principles of engagement, innovation, and application through mentorship, bicycling, and cooperative economics. He is also the Program Director of New Mexico Community Capital and manages the Financial & Business Basics course that is designed to help build a solid foundation to form and grow business ideas with a personal financial plan for success. We discuss: IndigiDAO’s aims to support Indigenous entrepreneurs through a DAO structure.Community and collaboration as essentials for Indigenous entrepreneurs.Prioritizing assistive technologies in IndigiDAO's design and mission.The impact of The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation grant on IndigiDAO's development.Thanks for tuning in! To get the full scoop on creating a more inclusive Web3, DeFi, and Bitcoin space, make sure you catch every episode – we're packed with actionable tips and insights. If you found this episode valuable, spread the word and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Don't forget to follow, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite listening app – it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about building a better future for everyone in the crypto space. CONNECT WITH RICHARD NG: LinkedIn CONNECT WITH JAKE FOREMAN: LinkedIn New Mexico Community Capital CONNECT WITH BUTTERSCOTCH MEDIA: Check us out on our website butterscotch.media and subscribe to our newsletter Follow us on X @butterscotch360 Watch our content on YouTube

    43 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to "The Get Down" - butterscotch Media's gateway to inclusion in Web3, DeFi, Bitcoin. This is the only show exclusively focused on the largest adopters of crypto. Hear from diverse founders, executives, officials as they discuss the latest in policy, industry trends, market research. Tune in as host Ritzy P gets down with fascinating pioneers, change-makers, luminaries in the cryptoverse.