Bitcoin Journeys with Stephan Zimmermann
Zac Townsend: Building the First Bitcoin Economy Insurance Company
05 Sep 2025
In this episode of the Bitcoin Journeys podcast, I am joined by Zac Townsend, a fintech veteran and founder of Meanwhile, the world's first and only Bitcoin-denominated life insurance company. With roots in Silicon Valley—including stints at Stripe and Y Combinator—Zac brings deep insights into building financial products for a Bitcoin future.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and Zac's Bitcoin journey beginnings02:00 - Impact of the 2008 financial crisis on views of money07:00 - Silicon Valley experiences: Stripe, Y Combinator, and key lessons12:00 - Inspiration and founding of Meanwhile17:00 - Life insurance basics and Meanwhile's Bitcoin differentiation24:00 - Policy mechanics: Payouts, tax benefits, borrowing, and inheritance29:00 - How yields are generated: Lending model and risk management35:00 - Balancing ideology, trust, and practical Bitcoin use cases42:00 - Future of Bitcoin economy and regulatory changes44:00 - Advice for newcomers and closing thoughtsFollow Zac:X: @ztownsendWebsite: meanwhile.bmFollow Me:X: @stephan_zimmInstagram: @bitcoinadvisoryThis content is for educational and/or entertainment purposes only.The views expressed by Stephan Zimmermann and his guests are their own and do not constitute financial advice.Nothing in the title, thumbnail, description, or video/audio is to be interpreted as investment, tax, or legal advice.I am not a financial advisor and do not provide financial services as defined by MiCA or other financial regulations.
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