E49: Policy with Purpose: Winning Web3 Advocacy State by State

SummaryTom McCarthy, Director of Development at Satoshi Action Fund and board member of DC DAO, joins the ATX DAO Podcast to unpack the evolving world of Web3 policy and grassroots advocacy. With a background that bridges creativity and crypto, Tom shares his personal journey from discovering Bitcoin in college to lobbying Capitol Hill on behalf of digital asset innovation. He dives into the mission of Satoshi Action Fund, pushing pro-Bitcoin and pro-digital asset legislation across U.S. states, and explains why the battle for clear, fair definitions in law is more urgent than ever.The conversation also explores Tom’s role with DC DAO and the Crypto Capitol Conference, a builder-first event creating space for real conversations between developers, founders, and policymakers in the nation’s capital. Tom offers behind-the-scenes stories from his work with lawmakers, reveals what it really takes to influence regulation, and shares how everyday constituents can help move the needle. Whether you’re a crypto founder, DAO member, or policy-curious listener, this episode is a must-hear for anyone interested in state-level wins, blockchain legislation, and building the future of decentralized tech in the U.S.Chapters00:00 Intro and Tom’s Journey into Crypto05:21 The Importance of Passion and Learning in Crypto09:21 Navigating the Policy Landscape in Crypto13:29 The Role of Education in Advocacy21:06 Satoshi Action Fund's Mission and Achievements26:00 Grassroots Advocacy and Public Engagement35:14 Upcoming Conference and Community Building42:14 Building a Community of Innovators45:28 The Importance of Relationships in Advocacy47:21 Navigating the Political Landscape as a Founder51:21 The Role of Policy in Decentralization56:13 Engaging with Lawmakers Effectively01:00:36 Prioritizing Digital Asset Legislation01:05:08 The Future of Digital Asset Policy01:11:15 Encouragement for Aspiring AdvocatesConnect with Tom, Satoshi Action Fund, and DC DAO:X (Twitter): ⁠⁠Tom - @tmccarthyv94 | Satoshi Action Fund - @SatoshiActFund | DC DAO - @DCDAOxyzLinkedIn: Tom McCarthy | Satoshi Action Fund | DC DAOCrypto Capitol Conference: https://lu.ma/a6jzwstxSatoshi Action Fund Website: https://www.satoshiaction.ioCheck out our friends at Tequila 512:Website:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tequila512.com⁠⁠Socials: ⁠⁠X (Twitter)⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Facebook⁠To learn more about ATX DAO:Check out the ⁠ATX DAO ⁠websiteFollow ⁠@ATXDAO⁠ on X (Twitter)Subscribe to our newsletterConnect with us on ⁠LinkedIn⁠Join the community in the ⁠ATX DAO Discord⁠Connect with the ATX DAO Podcast team on X (Twitter):Ash:  ⁠@ashinthewild⁠Luke: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@Luke152⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support the Podcast:If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your network.Subscribe for more insights, interviews, and deep dives into the world of Web 3.