Will Trump Pardon Samourai? Guilty Plea, Prison Ahead, and the Fight for Privacy in Bitcoin

In this episode of Coin Stories, Natalie Brunell speaks with Keonne Rodriguez, CEO of Samourai Wallet, ahead of him beginning a five-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to a conspiracy charge related to money transmission.

Natalie challenges the government’s case, including claims that Samourai’s coin-mixing tools amounted to “money laundering” and that Keonne encouraged criminal use. Keonne responds by explaining the case for financial privacy, the difference between self-custody and traditional banking, and what’s at stake if privacy tools are effectively outlawed.

We discuss:
Why financial privacy is a human right — and where the line is drawn
Bitcoin self-custody vs surveillance finance
What coin mixing is, and why prosecutors call it “money laundering”
The allegations that Samourai facilitated or encouraged illicit activity
What the loss of privacy means for freedom in a digital world

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IN THIS EPISODE
00:00 Inside Samourai Wallet
4:38 Gemini Bitcoin Credit Card | Bitwise | Ledn Bitcoin-backed Loans
10:31 Privacy risk
14:08 FBI raid
22:11 "Money laundering"
26:51 Speed Wallet | Bitkey | The Bitcoin Way | Genius Academy
28:36 Gray markets
39:36 President Trump
47:07 Preparing for prison

OTHER RESOURCES
Natalie Brunell’s website https://www.talkingbitcoin.com/

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Producer: Aron Bender   / aron-bender  
Editor: Silas Foley

📄 LEGAL & RISK DISCLOSURE

1. No Financial Advice: This content is for entertainment purposes only and not intended as financial, legal, or tax advice. I am not a licensed financial advisor. Always consult a professional.
2. Sponsored Content & Affiliate Links: I may receive compensation when you use them, which helps support the channel at no additional cost to you.
3. Crypto Risk Warning: Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and speculative. Risks include loss of capital, extreme price swings, and lack of regulatory protection.
4. Accuracy & Timeliness: All content reflects personal opinion and is based on available information at the time of recording. No guarantees are made regarding accuracy or future performance.

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