#144: Michael Krieger
3/27/2020 · 83 min · transcript via mlx
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Key topics
— Gold market tightness and the potential decoupling between physical bullion and paper claims prices as refineries shut down and delivery failures occur on Comex.
— The financialization of the U.S. economy since 1970 and how it maintains imperial power through reserve currency supremacy, which is now facing structural fragility.
— Congressional bailout bill represents another consolidation of power by the oligarchy rather than a genuine relief effort for struggling citizens.
— Bitcoin as both a monetary revolution and a teacher for building decentralized, empowered systems across all of society.
— Localism, community strength, and decentralization as counterweights to empire and centralized control; migration away from expensive big cities as a coming trend.
— Unschooling and self-directed education as radical alternatives to the Prussian-model school system designed to create obedience rather than critical thinkers.
Market & price signals
— Bitcoin halving approximately one month away at time of recording; historical pattern shows price bottoms before halving, then major moves in the following year (2017 after 2016 halving, 2013 after 2012 halving). Krieger expects another wave of adoption in the next year or two and views current pricing as an asymmetric opportunity for smaller holders. Gold market showing unusual tightness in 100-ounce and 400-ounce bars; paper prices frozen while physical demand outpaces supply—potential inflection point that could wake public to broader financial system dysfunction. Oil and gas companies monetizing flared gas via Bitcoin mining, creating new constituency of support for Bitcoin adoption.
Actionable insights
— Consider relocating from expensive major cities to lower cost-of-living areas to free up capital, reduce financial stress, and create family flexibility (one parent staying home, starting a business, or pursuing meaningful work).
— Build wealth in sound money (Bitcoin) rather than chasing speculative asset bubbles; focus on long-term independence and freedom for your family rather than the fantasy of retiring at 40 with $50 million.
— Stay alert for signpost of major Bitcoin adoption: when merchants willingly offer 10–20% discounts for Bitcoin payment, indicating they value the asset more than fiat—that signals a turning point is near.
Episode sponsorships
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