In this episode we welcome James Ross, the founder of Mode Network and former co-CEO of Hype.   James shares his journey from the London FinTech scene to the world of blockchain, with a focus on DeFi that was ignited by experiences with regulation hurdles.   His unique blend of traditional go-to-market strategies and on-chain data analysis brings a fresh approach to Web3 marketing.

James recounts the evolution of Hype, a leading Web3 marketing agency, which scaled from a team of 30 to 180 during the bull market. The discussion explores the distinct strategies that set Hype apart from its Web2 counterparts. You'll get a glimpse of the workings of a Web3 marketing agency, from innovative hiring practices to resource allocation during market shifts. James' insights into these strategies are sure to be a valuable lesson for marketing enthusiasts and budding entrepreneurs alike.

The conversation then shifts to Mode Network's focus on incentivizing developers and aligning incentives to share the network's success with users. James delves into the security challenges and strategies employed to encourage growth, the potential of meme coins and NFTs on Mode, and the implementation of a referral network within the protocol. This insightful discussion offers a unique perspective on the evolution and future of Web3, making it a valuable listen for anyone intrigued by DeFi and blockchain technology.