This next set of newsletters will be what I’m calling an “Explain Like I’m 12” (ELI12) approach to learning about cryptocurrency. ELI12 requires building up concepts from primitives a 12 year old would already be familiar with, then applying them to the world of crypto.
My goal for this series is to help answer questions such as:
What is a “computer”? (OK, maybe not that basic)
What is a blockchain?
How does Bitcoin work?
What are exchanges like Coinbase and Kraken?
Bitcoin is $52,000! Do I have to buy a whole one?
How safe is all this crypto stuff? Can’t I get hacked?
I’ve heard bitcoin is destroying the planet. Is that true?
I’ve heard of Ethereum and Dogecoin. What are some of the differences between these cryptocurrencies?
How can I get started? Is it too late?
I will also share tales of regret, like the time I spent $67,000 in today dollars for a $1,000 Amazon gift card, or the $3,000 pizza (though to be fair, it came with garlic butter dipping sauce and a spice packet).
It’s my hope that by the end of the series you’re able to understand how crypto works at a very high level, and will have a foundation for further reading elsewhere.
If you know someone who might be interested, please invite them to visit bbhart.substack.com — or forward them this email — so they don’t miss anything.
