Searching for Mana with Lloyd Wahed

“The wave that we're catching is that all of this is going to shift on-chain and be done with stablecoins over the next 10 years.” In this episode of Searching for Mana, Lloyd Wahed is joined by Sidney Powell, CEO of Maple Finance, to explore how on-chain credit is evolving into a serious capital markets category. Maple now manages around $4bn in AUM and has originated more than $20bn in loans since launch. But the deeper story is how crypto lending has changed since 2022: less frontier excess, more risk management, more institutional structure. Sidney explains how Maple lends to institutions on-chain using stablecoins, why liquid collateral changes the risk profile, and how DeFi can become a source of capital rather than just speculation. They also discuss stablecoins scaling into the trillions, the application layer thesis, Maple’s partnership with Aave, private credit, macro cycles, AI, and why Sidney believes the next decade of alternative lending moves on-chain. A grounded conversation on credit, stablecoins, risk, and what it takes to build through the cycles. Follow Sidney & Maple Finance on X: @syrupsid @maplefinance Follow Lloyd: @lloydwahed Please like and subscribe to stay up to date with all the latest episodes!

“Technology is not political. It’s just technology.” In this episode of Searching for Mana, Lloyd Wahed is joined by Chris Perkins, Head of Franklin Crypto at Franklin Templeton. Chris’ path into digital assets spans the US Marine Corps, 15 years on Wall Street, and senior roles across crypto, including as President at CoinFund, before stepping into one of the most significant institutional roles in the space. Following Franklin Templeton’s acquisition of 250 Digital, a CoinFund spinoff housing its liquid crypto strategies, Chris now leads the newly formed Franklin Crypto unit, bringing together crypto-native expertise with one of the largest global distribution platforms. The conversation focuses on what has changed. While digital assets are still often framed through volatility and cycles, the more important shift is structural. Institutional capital is moving in, and with it comes a different set of requirements around scale, governance, and distribution. Chris explains why this moment represents an inflection point, and why the next phase of the market will be defined less by ideology and more by execution. They discuss: Chris also reflects on the principles that guide his approach, from operating in high-stakes environments to building within regulated financial systems, and how that informs his view on risk, technology, and long-term market structure. Follow on X: Chris Perkins: @perkinscr97 Franklin Templeton Digital Assets: @FTDA_US Lloyd Wahed: @lloydwahed Please Like and Subscribe! https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/searching-for-mana-with-lloyd-wahed/id1491460738 https://open.spotify.com/show/3HmB7fS60zRSvWq3sQgj3X?si=a8aae116ba4d4ebb https://www.youtube.com/@searchingformanapodcast

“This is a huge dislocation, kind of like an industrial age.” In this episode of Searching for Mana, Lloyd Wahed is joined by Max Gokhman, Deputy CIO at Franklin Templeton Investment Solutions Digital assets are often framed through cycles of hype and volatility. But from an institutional perspective, the more relevant question is whether something more structural is taking place beneath the surface. Max argues that the current moment is better understood as a dislocation - one that resembles earlier periods of technological change, where new infrastructure quietly reshapes how markets operate. Rather than viewing digital assets as a single category, the conversation breaks down the different roles emerging across the ecosystem. From Ethereum as a form of infrastructure exposure, to Solana as a new model for global transactions, and tokenisation as a way to unlock access and liquidity across traditional asset classes. They explore how institutions are approaching this shift in practice, where the real utility is already visible, and why much of the noise in the market obscures a more fundamental change. Max also reflects on how to navigate this environment as an allocator, the importance of distinguishing between narrative and structure, and what it means to invest in a market that is still being built in real time. Please like & subscribe! Franklin Templeton Digital Assets: https://x.com/FTDA_US Lloyd Wahed: https://x.com/LloydWahed Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/searching-for-mana-with-lloyd-wahed/id1491460738 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3HmB7fS60zRSvWq3sQgj3X?si=424419d0a6b749f4

“The vision is to rotate the world’s economy on-chain.” In this episode of Searching for Mana, Lloyd Wahed is joined by Eric Saraniecki, Co-Founder of Digital Asset and a key architect behind the Canton Network. Despite the ambition, the reality today is far more constrained. Financial systems still rely on fragmented infrastructure, delayed settlement, and processes that haven’t meaningfully evolved in decades. What looks instantaneous on the surface often takes days beneath it. Eric explains why previous blockchain approaches have struggled to translate into real capital markets adoption, and why the problem isn’t a lack of innovation, but a mismatch between technology and the requirements of large institutions. From privacy and control to interoperability and governance, the conversation explores what it actually takes to move finance on-chain at scale. They discuss why the future is unlikely to be won by a single chain, the importance of coordination over ideology, and how network effects between institutions, DeFi, and new market participants will shape the next phase of the industry. Eric also reflects on building through multiple cycles, the trade-offs between speed and pragmatism, and why meaningful change in capital markets is less about breakthroughs and more about sustained, incremental progress. Please like & subscribe! Eric Saraniecki: https://x.com/wesarn_real Canton Network: https://x.com/cantonnetwork Lloyd Wahed: https://x.com/LloydWahed Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/searching-for-mana-with-lloyd-wahed/id1491460738 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3HmB7fS60zRSvWq3sQgj3X?si=424419d0a6b749f4 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@searchingformanapodcast

“No government in the world is anywhere near AI-native.” In this episode of Searching for Mana, Lloyd Wahed sits down with Benedict Macon-Cooney, Chief AI & Innovation Officer at the Tony Blair Institute. They discuss how artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape government, public services, and the structure of the modern state. Benedict shares insights from working with leaders and governments around the world, explaining why institutions must adapt quickly to the pace of technological change. The conversation explores the widening gap between innovation in the private sector and the slower evolution of public institutions, the transformative potential of AI in education and healthcare, and how countries that master new technological waves position themselves to lead the future. Benedict also reflects on leadership, institutional reform, and the challenge of modernising government systems in an era defined by rapid technological progress. Please like & subscribe! Benedict Macon-Cooney: https://x.com/benedictcooney Tony Blair Institute for Global Change: https://x.com/InstituteGC Lloyd Wahed: https://x.com/LloydWahed Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/searching-for-mana-with-lloyd-wahed/id1491460738 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3HmB7fS60zRSvWq3sQgj3X?si=424419d0a6b749f4

In this episode of Searching for Mana – On Location, Malak sits down with Yoni Assia, Founder and CEO of eToro, to explore how online trading has evolved from phone brokers and desktop platforms to mobile-first, crypto-native investing. Recorded live at the Milken Institute's Middle East & Africa Summit in Abu Dhabi, Yoni shares how eToro pioneered social and copy trading, introduced Bitcoin to European brokerage clients as early as 2013, and helped shape the tokenisation conversation alongside early crypto innovators. He reflects on the generational wealth transfer set to move over $100 trillion into Gen Y and Gen Z hands, and why digital-native investors expect markets to be global, mobile, and 24/7. They also discuss prediction markets, AI-powered investing through eToro’s “Tori” analyst, the rise of crypto-native users, and what it takes to build a platform that resonates with younger generations worldwide. Tune in to hear how the next generation of investors are reshaping global markets. Yoni Assia X (Twitter): https://x.com/yoniassia Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoniassia/ Malak Alba X (Twitter): https://x.com/Malakincrypto LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malak-albaw/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of Searching for Mana - ON LOCATION, guest host Malak Alba speaks with Paul Abrahimzadeh, Partner at 1789 Capital. Paul discusses his transition from Citigroup to 1789 Capital and shares insights into the firm's investment philosophy of 'patriotic capitalism,' which focuses on bolstering American competitiveness. The conversation covers Paul's methods for identifying high-growth companies, the economic impact of tech investments in the US, and his views on the burgeoning fields of AI, data infrastructure, and defence tech. Paul emphasises the importance of sustainable growth and the potential risks of over-leverage in the US economy. Recorded at FII Institute in Riyadh, this insightful conversation is not to be missed for anyone interested in venture capital and tech innovation. Tune in to learn more about the future of tech investments and the role of venture capital in shaping it. Paul Abrahimzadeh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-abrahimzadeh-618b93345/ Malak Alba X (Twitter): https://x.com/Malakincrypto LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malak-albaw/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, host Lloyd Wahed sits down with Maja Vujinovic, CEO & Co-Founder of FG Nexus. Maja shares her remarkable journey from being a refugee in childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She discusses the financial struggles she observed early in life, which led her to the world of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. Maja also recounts her experience of getting kicked out of boardrooms for discussing the use of airline engine electricity from GE to mine Bitcoin. She discusses the creation of FG Nexus, a company built to be cycler-resistant, and how it's not just a momentum play. Additionally, Maja gives a prediction on the price of Ethereum by the end of the year and explains her philosophy of being grateful even for the challenges she faces. Tune in for an insightful discussion on overcoming adversity, the volatile world of cryptocurrencies, and the future of blockchain technology. Maja Vujinovic X (Twitter): https://x.com/maja0G LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/majavujinovic/ Lloyd Wahed X (Twitter): https://x.com/LloydWahed LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloydwahed/ Stay updated with Searching For Mana Official website: https://mana-group.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, host Lloyd Wahed sits down with Kyle Samani, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Multicoin Capital and Chairman of the Board of Forward Industries, for an insightful discussion about the Solana blockchain and Multicoin Capital's role in the blockchain space. Samani delves into the unique features that distinguish Solana from other blockchains, such as its high throughput and low transaction costs, and explains its rapid growth and adoption within the blockchain community. The conversation also covers broader topics, including Samani's investment strategies, the future potential of decentralised finance (DeFi), and the transformative impact of blockchain technology on the global financial ecosystem. Samani shares his perspectives on the challenges facing the blockchain industry and the innovations that could drive its future growth. Tune in for a deep dive into the innovative world of Solana, the dynamics of blockchain technology, and the impact of Multicoin Capital on the future of finance and technology. Kyle Samani X (Twitter): https://x.com/KyleSamani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylesamani/ Lloyd Wahed X (Twitter): https://x.com/LloydWahed LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloydwahed/ Stay updated with Searching For Mana Official website: https://mana-group.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, host Lloyd Wahed speaks with Kevin de Patoul, Co-founder and CEO of Keyrock. Kevin shares how he built Keyrock from its beginnings in 2017 into a global force in digital asset market making, operating across thousands of markets and exchanges. The conversation covers the evolution of digital assets, the challenges of bridging traditional and crypto finance, and the importance of building trust and credibility in a rapidly changing industry. Kevin also reflects on the lessons learned from entrepreneurship, the value of discipline and humility, and his vision for the future of tokenisation and digital finance. Tune in for insights on digital assets, scaling a fintech company, and what it takes to lead in a rapidly evolving industry. Kevin de Patoul X (Twitter): https://x.com/kevindepatoul LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-de-patoul/ Lloyd Wahed X (Twitter): https://x.com/LloydWahed LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloydwahed/ Stay updated with Searching For Mana Official website: https://mana-group.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of the Searching for Mana podcast, host Lloyd Wahed sits down with Sandy Kaul, EVP Head of Innovation at Franklin Templeton. They discuss the groundbreaking potential of digital assets and blockchain technology in transforming the financial industry. Sandy shares her journey from a journalist to a thought leader in fintech, highlighting pivotal moments and the innovative directions Franklin Templeton is taking. They delve into the intricacies of tokenised money market funds, stablecoins, and the evolving landscape of financial regulation. Beyond her role at Franklin Templeton, Sandy is the co-chair of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission's Digital Asset Subcommittee and serves on the World Economic Forum Digital Assets Advisory Board. Tune in to explore Sandy's visionary insights and the future trajectory of digital finance. Sandy Kaul LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandy-kaul/ Lloyd Wahed X (Twitter): https://x.com/LloydWahed LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloydwahed/ Stay updated with Searching For Mana Official website: https://mana-group.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, Dan & Sachin are joined by Steffen Vollert, Co-Founder and CEO of Volt.io — one of the leading players driving real-time payments across borders through open banking infrastructure. From the early days of Volt’s seed raise to the complexity of global expansion — including their launch in Australia — Steffen shares what it takes to build a high-growth payments business without compromising on culture, product, or people. He unpacks why talent retention and cultural alignment are key differentiators at scale, and how “extreme ownership” has shaped Volt’s internal DNA. The conversation also dives into: – The future of Web3 in payments – How digital assets could accelerate infrastructure – Why Europe lags behind the U.S. in fintech innovation – And yes… even a few thoughts on tractors, habits, and consistency Steffen’s calm, pragmatic approach is matched by a sharp clarity around product and growth — a CEO who codes, thinks, and scales with intention. A must-listen for anyone building in payments, fintech, or digital infrastructure. Steffen Vollert LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vollerts/ Daniel O'Riordan X (Twitter): https://x.com/Dan_ORiordan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-o-riordan-0636257b/ Sachin Doshi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachin-doshi-1b87094/ Stay updated with Searching For Mana Official website: https://mana-group.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, host Lloyd Wahed sits down with Stani Kulechov, the founder and CEO of Avara, to delve into the transformative impact of decentralised finance. Stani discusses the origins and growth of Aave, the significance of blockchain technology, and the innovative solutions his team is developing in the DeFi space. The conversation includes insights into Aave's pioneering lending and borrowing protocols, while also touching on the broader implications of tokenised real-world assets (RWAs), and the importance of security and scalability in blockchain networks. Stani shares his vision for a future where DeFi can provide equal financial opportunities to all, emphasising the importance of resilience and creativity. Tune in to gain insightful perspectives on financial democratisation, the role of Ethereum, and the seamless integration of blockchain in mainstream finance. Stani Kulechov X (Twitter): https://x.com/StaniKulechov LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stani-kulechov-361284132/ Lloyd Wahed X (Twitter): https://x.com/LloydWahed LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloydwahed/ Stay updated with Searching For Mana Official website: https://mana-group.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1/ Enjoyed this episode? Give it a thumbs up & subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, host Lloyd Wahed sits down with Mishal Kanoo, Chairman of the Kanoo Group, for a thought-provoking conversation on the intersection of tradition and innovation in business. Kanoo shares insights into his family's business legacy, the importance of professional management, and the role education plays in ethical leadership. The episode also tackles broader themes such as the socio-economic impacts of AI and the importance of community and respect in business. Tune in for a deep dive into the principles, challenges, and future trends in business and technology. Mishal Kanoo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mishal-kanoo-14099111b/ Follow Searching For Mana to stay updated on our latest episodes. Website: https://manasearch.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mana.search/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1 👍 Like this episode and subscribe to this channel if our content helped and inspired you!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, host Lloyd Wahed speaks with Frederik Gregaard, CEO of the Cardano Foundation, to delve into the expansive possibilities of blockchain technology and Cardano's unique position in the ecosystem. Discussing Cardano's resilience, decentralised governance, and long-term vision, Gregaard sheds light on how the Foundation's non-profit ethos drives innovation and social impact. The conversation touches on the challenges and successes faced by Cardano, its academic foundation, and the potential for blockchain to redefine global governance and economic identity. Gregaard also shares his personal leadership philosophy and vision for a future where blockchain empowers communities globally. Don't miss this insightful episode to understand the intricate balance between technology, ethics, and the future of decentralised networks. Cardano Foundation website: https://www.cardanofoundation.org/ Frederik Gregaard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregaard/ Follow Searching For Mana to stay updated on our latest episodes. Website: https://manasearch.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mana.search/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1 👍 Like this episode and subscribe to this channel if our content helped and inspired you!

In this episode of Searching for Mana, Lloyd Wahed meets with Lily Liu, President of the Solana Foundation, to unpack her journey from an early fascination with Bitcoin to leading one of blockchain’s most groundbreaking ecosystems. With her expertise spanning traditional finance and digital assets, Lily provides a rare, balanced view of where blockchain is heading and how Solana is advancing the technology’s global impact. Discover Solana's evolution from a fledgling network to a blockchain powerhouse, overcoming hurdles like the FTX crash while cultivating a vibrant community and ecosystem with over $5 billion in TVL. Lily’s perspectives on self-custody, economic sovereignty, and user-first blockchain products are a must for anyone following the evolution of digital assets. Don't miss this episode for a glimpse into crypto’s future, the challenges and promise of blockchain, and the unique strength of the Solana community. Solana website: https://solana.com/ Lily Liu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calilyliu/ Follow Searching For Mana to stay tuned into our latest episodes. Website: https://manasearch.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mana.search/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1 👍 Like this episode and subscribe to this channel if our content helped and inspired you!

In this episode of Searching for Mana Fintech, co-hosts Dan and Sachin engage in a compelling conversation with Robin Gilthorpe, CEO of Earnix, a pioneering company providing AI-driven SaaS solutions for the financial and insurance sectors. Since its founding in 2001, Earnix has led innovation with dynamic tools that transform insurer operations, from risk evaluation to real-time pricing. The discussion explores strategies that have positioned Earnix as a key player in this evolving industry, covering global market expansion and complex regulatory environments. Robin shares insights on how Earnix’s technology enables insurers to launch products faster, make smarter pricing decisions, and stay competitive. He also addresses the challenges of global scaling and navigating diverse regulations. Tune in to discover the strategies positioning companies like Earnix at the forefront of industry advancements. Earnix website: https://earnix.com/ Robin Gilthorpe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robingilthorpe/ Follow Searching For Mana to stay tuned into our latest episodes. Website: https://manasearch.co.uk/browse-jobs/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mana.search/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1 👍 Like this episode and subscribe to this channel if our content helped and inspired you!

In this compelling episode of Searching for Mana, host Lloyd Wahed engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jeremy Allaire, the visionary Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Circle. Together, they explore the transformative journey of Circle and its flagship digital currency, USDC. Delving deep into the origins, challenges, and subsequent rise of Circle, the conversation sheds light on how stablecoins like USDC are pioneering the future of digital finance, providing a seamless bridge between cutting-edge blockchain technology and traditional financial systems. From navigating the turbulent waters of ‘crypto winters’ to scaling operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, this episode highlights the resilience and foresight required to integrate blockchain technology with established financial systems, offering listeners a comprehensive look into the future of digital currencies. Circle's website: https://www.circle.com/en/ Jeremy Allaire's profile on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyallaire/ Follow Searching For Mana to stay tuned into our latest episodes. Website: https://manasearch.co.uk/browse-jobs/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mana.search/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1 👍 Like this episode and subscribe to this channel if our content helped and inspired you!

Metaverse, blockchain, ChatGPT, NFT marketplaces and more! Discover the journey of Mo Shaikh, the innovative mind behind Aptos Labs, as he dives into his entrepreneurial roots and the inspiration behind his groundbreaking platform. From discussing ecosystem tools to emphasizing the power of empathy, Mo shares insights into his daily routine and strategic approaches to success. Join host Lloyd Wahed, CEO and founder of Mana Group, as he unravels the fascinating story that drives Mo's vision, in an episode that encapsulates passion, business acumen, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Tune in for a captivating exploration of creativity, dedication, and the intersection of technology and humanity. Website: https://manasearch.co.uk/browse-jobs/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mana.search/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1

This episode of Searching for Mana takes you on a journey, exploring the transformation of Ecospend from a fledgling startup to an industry powerhouse, illustrating how fintech companies are evolving and impacting a rapidly changing financial landscape. Our hosts Dan O'Riordan and Sachin Doshi welcome James Hickman, CCO of Ecospend, and share a vivid chat about the company's growth, innovative approaches and the challenges encountered on the road to achieving a strategic vision. Major focal points of the episode include the scaling-up process of Ecospend, the resulting cultural and operational shifts, and the uncharted possibilities hinged on open banking. Our speakers delve deep into discussions about the seismic changes happening within the realms of open banking, the innovative use of account information and transaction data to create value, and how these trends are reshaping the broader financial sector. Whether you're a fintech enthusiast, industry insider, or just curious about the future of finance, this episode will intrigue, inform and inspire. Follow Searching For Mana to stay tuned into our latest episodes. Website: https://manasearch.co.uk/browse-jobs/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mana.search/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mana1