Bitcoin Advocate Commencement Speaker Faces Backlash After Admitting to Being Under the Influence of Ayahuasca
Sead Fadilpašić
Last updated: May 8, 2024 11:05 EDT | 2 min read
Source: a video screenshot. Emperor Nova01 / YouTube
Entrepreneur Chris Pan, the commencement speaker for the class of 2024 at a US university, caused controversy when he revealed that he was under the influence of ayahuasca while writing his speech, which included a promotion of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency.
The Ohio State University, located in Columbus, Ohio, hosted its commencement ceremony on May 5. Chris Pan was chosen to deliver the speech to the graduating students, their families, and other attendees. However, the speech did not go over well with the audience, resulting in heavy criticism for Pan.
So, what did Pan say?
The 17-minute-long speech began conventionally but took an unexpected turn with singing, swaying, waving, and a focus on Bitcoin. Pan discussed the importance of financial literacy, arguing that saving alone is not sufficient to achieve homeownership and financial comfort. He encouraged the audience to keep an open mind and proclaimed Bitcoin as a misunderstood asset class.
Unfortunately, the audience did not respond positively, with some even booing Pan. Nonetheless, he continued his speech, stating that Bitcoin is decentralized and finite. He also addressed previous security concerns with crypto exchanges, claiming they have been resolved with the launch of Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Pan even demonstrated how anyone could hold these funds in their retirement account, although the demonstration did not have the desired impact.
A week prior to the speech, Pan admitted on his LinkedIn profile that he was under the influence of ayahuasca while writing it. Ayahuasca is a plant-based psychedelic substance known to alter perception, thinking, and emotions. Pan explained that he consumed ayahuasca, which is traditionally used by indigenous peoples in Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador for religious and therapeutic purposes.
While many within the industry may not have found issue with Pan’s discussion of Bitcoin, the overall speech received heavy criticism. Alumni, parents, peers, and graduates expressed disappointment, stating that the speech appeared more like a crypto advertisement for Pan’s business. However, there were a few individuals who supported Pan’s message, believing that Bitcoin represents hope and the future for humanity.
According to the university’s website, Pan is described as a social entrepreneur, musician, and inspirational speaker. He graduated from Ohio State in 1999 and has worked for PepsiCo and Facebook before founding his own bracelet-making company, MyIntent. His umbrella organization, SpiritLab, focuses on promoting spiritual health and growth through experimentation.
The full speech, including the Bitcoin portion (minutes 5-8), can be watched in the following video: [insert YouTube link]
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