Hasan Minhaj Doesn't Know

Fighting The Crypto Cult with Ben McKenzie

Apr 22, 2026
Ben McKenzie, actor turned investigative filmmaker exposing crypto fraud, discusses his documentary 'Everyone is Lying To You For Money'. He traces why crypto attracts believers and criminals. He calls out celebrity promoters, explains pyramid dynamics and crypto’s appeal for crime, and recounts interviewing key figures like Sam Bankman-Fried.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Crypto Is Mostly A Story People Believe

  • Crypto's value is largely narrative-driven and becomes whatever investors project onto it.
  • McKenzie says the story investors buy reflects their hopes and dreams, while criminals exploit crypto's utility.
ANECDOTE

Celsius Victims Still Believe After Losing Everything

  • McKenzie interviewed Celsius victims who lost savings and still believed in crypto despite ruin.
  • He filmed multiple devastated investors who said they continued to believe in Bitcoin even after losing life savings.
INSIGHT

Crypto's Emotional Sell Targets Young Men

  • Crypto marketing targets young straight men by promising agency and financial escape from failing institutions.
  • McKenzie links the appeal to wanting control over life and mistrust of banks and government.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app