Proof of Thought 003: The DOGE Founder Who Hates Your Buzzwords

Welcome to Proof of Thought, a human-centric ideas index pulling Web3 thought leaders out of the hype cycle and into honest dialogue.

Through the exploration of cultural competency, unique mental models and breakthrough thinking, Proof of Thought is a space for ideas worth verifying.

In this installment, we speak with Billy Markus, co-creator of Dogecoin and software engineer who turned a joke about cryptocurrency into one of the most recognizable digital assets in the world. 

In a candid email exchange, Billy explains why he builds for reasons other than legacy and delivers his trademark blunt assessment of crypto's problems. He also shares that he types 130+ words per second.

Known on X as "Shibetoshi Nakamoto" to his 2.2 million followers, Billy shares that he “stepped away from Dogecoin in 2014, and sold all my crypto in 2015 after getting laid off and needing money to pay rent, around $10,000 worth (about the value of a used Honda),” adding that “the media misinterpreted what I said about the Honda and ran with it.” 

Today, Markus continues working as a software engineer while offering unfiltered commentary on crypto culture.

Let's get into it.

Please share your name, occupation, and your why.

Billy Markus, software engineer. I like making stuff and not taking things too seriously.

What's your favorite tipping point in tech history?

I was super into AOL when I was young. Growing up with the internet going from a weird crazy Wild West to what it is today is definitely the defining technology from my generation.

What's a belief you hold that most in Web3 don't?

I guess I generally don't like the term Web3 at all. To me it feels a bit like a meaningless marketing buzzword.

When's the last time you changed your mind and why?

In a big way? I used to feel like engineers were the most important people ever because they do the work, but nowadays I do think good product people, good marketing people, and others are just as important for success.

What are you saying no to in 2025?

Most things!

What's one buzzword we need to retire?

Web3? 🤣

Most obscure life hack?

Uh I dunno about obscure but somewhat useful. Prepend an article that has a paywall with archive.is/ if you wanna read it.

What question should people be asking more?

They should ask what others want rather than just what they want.

Legacy or escape velocity—what are you building for?

Neither? I like building fun and funny stuff.

Who outside of crypto shaped your thinking most?

My dad probably.

What do you love about Web3/blockchain?

I like people playing around with tech in fun ways.

What do you hate about Web3/blockchain?

The constant bullshit, the hype for vapor, the delusion, the insecurity manifesting in all sorts of inappropriate and pathetic ways from many people involved. There's a lot I don't like to be honest.

What is a narrative in crypto you think is hurting the industry?

All the scams and grifts aren't great.

What will it take for mainstream crypto adoption?

There's already mainstream adoption! The more interesting ways beyond speculation will be invisible to users anyway. The backing tech is really just a database to track tokens.

What's something most people don't know about you?

I type 130+ words per second. Wait, is that a typo?

Your Saturday morning soundtrack?

Probably video game music.

Final thoughts?

The best game of 2025 is Expedition 33. Maybe the best game since Zelda Breath of the Wild. Make sure to play if you're a gamer.