How Blackbird Is Unlocking Crypto's App Ecosystem | Ben Leventhal & Jesse Walden

Gm! This week we're joined by Ben Leventhal & Jesse Walden to discuss Blackbird & the launch of Flynet. We deep dive into the Blackbird origin story, launching an L3, how to build a great consumer app, what makes a successful airdrop, advice for founders & more. Enjoy! -- Follow Ben: https://x.com/benleventhal Follow Jesse: https://x.com/jessewldn Follow Jack: https://x.com/whosknave Follow Lightspeed: https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq Subscribe to the Lightspeed Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/lightspeed Join the Lightspeed Manlets Collective Telegram: https://t.me/+QUl_ZOj2nMJlZTEx -- Use Code LIGHTSPEED10 for 10% off tickets to Digital Asset Summit 2025: https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-2025-new-york -- Ledger, the global leader in digital asset security, proudly sponsors the Lightspeed podcast. As Ledger celebrates 10 years of securing 20% of global crypto, it remains the top choice for securing your Solana assets. Buy a LEDGER™ device now and build confidently, knowing your SOL are safe. Buy now on https://shop.ledger.com/?r=1da180a5de00. -- Accurate Crypto Taxes. No Guesswork. Say goodbye to tax season headaches with Crypto Tax Calculator: https://cryptotaxcalculator.io/us/?coupon=BW2025&utm_source=blockworks&utm_medium=referral+&utm_campaign=lightspeedpodcast Generate accurate, CPA-endorsed tax reports fully compliant with IRS rules. Seamlessly integrate with 3000+ wallets, exchanges, and on-chain platforms. Import reports directly into TurboTax or H&R Block, or securely share them with your accountant. Exclusive Offer: Use the code BW2025 to enjoy 30% off all paid plans. Don’t miss out - offer expires 15 April 2025! -- Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/ -- (00:00) Introduction (00:45) What Is Blackbird? (09:02) Launching An L3 (10:22) Building On Base (13:01) Ledger Ad (13:49) Building A Consumer App (17:45) Flynet: Blackbird’s Onchain Transaction Network (27:25) Loyalty Apps (31:48) Crypto Tax Calculator (32:19) Ledger Ad (33:07) How To Build A Great Application (38:17) What Makes A Successful Airdrop (45:22) Getting Into Crypto (47:27) Advice For Founders -- Disclaimers: Lightspeed was kickstarted by a grant from the Solana Foundation. Nothing said on Lightspeed is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Mert, Jack, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.