In this episode of Atlas Network with Michael Carnuccio, host Michael Carnuccio interviews Zac Guignard from the Human Rights Foundation's Financial Freedom Project. Zac discusses the intersection of Bitcoin and human rights, shedding light on the importance of financial freedom in promoting democracy and resisting authoritarian regimes. The conversation touches on HRF's initiatives like The Financial Freedom Report, Bitcoin Development Fund, and the CBDC Tracker. Zac emphasizes the power of Bitcoin as a censorship-resistant financial tool and the potential of emerging technologies like Nostr and Bitchat. He also reflects on his own journey into the world of Bitcoin and financial freedom, sharing his hopes and insights for the future of global democracy. HRF is a finalist for the Templeton Freedom Award, which will be announced at Atlas Network’s 2025 Liberty Forum & Freedom Dinner in New York City
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Show Notes / Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Atlas Network and Guest Zac Guignard
00:47 Exploring the Financial Freedoms Project
02:29 The Importance of Financial Freedom in Human Rights
03:25 Challenges and Focus Areas of the Financial Freedoms Team
05:17 Educational and Grant Initiatives
07:00 Understanding Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)
07:58 How to Support the Human Rights Foundation
08:21 Bitcoin's Role in Financial Freedom
12:10 Emerging Freedom Technologies: Nostr and Bitchat
15:09 Personal Journey and Passion for Bitcoin
17:54 Practical Steps to Get Started with Bitcoin
19:37 Radical Innovation Summit and Brain Trust Experience
22:04 Global Perspectives and the Role of Freedom Tech
30:05 Introduction to the Human Rights Foundation (HRF)
30:41 HRF's Unique Focus and Technological Advancements
31:57 Global Human Rights Challenges and Financial Repression
33:29 Case Studies: Venezuela and Turkey
37:28 The Role of Technology in Advancing Freedom
41:06 HRF's Nomination for the Templeton Freedom Award
42:35 Personal Insights and Hobbies
45:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement