Welcome to the 15th edition of Hashed Out, your weekly guide to navigating the dynamic world of Web3, brought to you by Argot (www.argotagency.io). Whether you're taking your first steps into this digital frontier or already exploring it, our mission remains the same: to demystify the complexities of Web3 and equip you with the insights and resources you need to thrive.

Our vision extends beyond a simple newsletter—we aim to build a vibrant community where both enthusiasts and newcomers can gather, learn, and grow together. Think of us as your trusted sherpa on this journey, here to translate intricate concepts into clear, actionable insights. We'll connect you with the latest data and expert perspectives from the builders, researchers, and creators driving innovation in Web3.

Join us as we transform from curious explorers into true Web3 virtuosos, one issue at a time.

Intro: Why Being Web3 Native Matters

Hey friends,

Let’s be real — if you’ve been circling around Web3 for a while, peeking into the world of crypto, NFTs, DAOs, and all the other "what-the-heck-does-this-mean" jargon, you are NOT alone. We’ve all been there.

Maybe you’ve thought about getting a wallet, but it felt too complicated. Maybe you minted one NFT and then disappeared into the shadows. Or maybe you’ve been quietly reading Twitter threads like “Web3 will change everything”, but inside, you’re wondering, “Ok... but how do I actually start?”

Well, good news — this issue of Hashed Out is for you.

🚨 Why now? Because Web3 isn't waiting for anyone.

The truth is, Web3 is happening — whether we fully understand it yet or not. And here’s the thing:

So if you’ve been thinking:

• “It’s too technical” (trust me, it’s less scary than it looks).

• “I don’t know where to start” (that’s why this issue exists!).

• “I’m afraid of doing it wrong” (spoiler: we all mess up at first — it’s part of the fun).

You’re in the right place.

For the next 2-3 weeks, we’re diving into practical steps you can take to move from Web3 curious to Web3 fluent — so you can confidently engage with decentralized tools, communities, and economies.

We have broken up “practical Web3” into 8 parts. This editon will cover the first four parts and next week we will cover the remaining parts.

Parts 1-4 of this edition are:

• Part 1: Web3 Wallets- Your Passport to Web3

• Part 2: Learn By Doing: How to Use DeFi

• Part 3: Creating a Web3 Identity

• Part 4: Buying Cryptocurrency 

Also In This Issue

• Case Study: How Sarah Went from Web3 Newbie to Web3 Native (and Why It Changed Her Life)

• Editorial: Web3 Is For Everyone 

• Connections- Curated Links for the Curious

• The News Drop- Web3 News You Can Use

• The Wrap- Key takeaways for the TLDRers & A Look Ahead

Ok Hashers, are you ready to get started learning how to really engage with Web3? I know I am! Let’s go!

Part 1: How to Use Web3 Wallets

Your Gateway to the Decentralized World

If Web3 is a digital world, then your Web3 wallet is your passport. A Web3 wallet lets you store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies, interact with decentralized apps (dApps), and even log in to Web3 services—without relying on a traditional bank or tech company. But choosing the right wallet can feel overwhelming. In this section, we’ll break down the different types of wallets, how to choose the best one for your needs, and most importantly, how to set it up securely so you stay in full control of your digital assets.

Part 2: Learn by Doing — How to Use DeFi

Take Control of Your Money with Decentralized Finance

Tired of low-interest savings accounts, high bank fees, and slow money transfers? DeFi (Decentralized Finance) offers a new way to manage money that cuts out the middleman, giving you direct access to lending, borrowing, and earning better returns on your assets. Whether you want to earn passive income, swap tokens without a centralized exchange, or send money instantly across borders, DeFi is opening up financial tools that were once reserved for banks and big investors. In this section, we’ll cover what DeFi is, how it works, and the easiest ways to get started.

Part 3: Setting Up Your Web3 Identity

Own Your Digital Identity in the Decentralized World

In the traditional digital world, your identity is controlled by Google, Facebook, and other centralized platforms—and they can restrict access at any time. With a Web3 identity, you get a decentralized and secure way to log into apps, manage your online presence, and even build a digital reputation that you own. From setting up an ENS domain (yourname.eth) to using your wallet as a universal login, this section will show you how to take back control of your digital identity and create an online presence that’s truly yours.

Part 4: Getting Started with Crypto

Buy, Store, and Use Crypto Safely and Confidently

Crypto isn’t just for traders or tech enthusiasts—it’s becoming a practical tool for everyday life. Whether you want to store money securely, send payments across the world, or invest for the future, understanding the basics of cryptocurrency is the first step. But buying crypto safely, storing it properly, and avoiding common mistakes is critical. In this section, we’ll break down the different types of cryptocurrencies, how to buy and hold them securely, and what you need to know before making your first transaction.

Case Study: How Sarah Went from Web3 Newbie to Web3 Native (and Why It Changed Her Life)

One Person’s Journey to Mastering Web3

Meet Sarah, a 34-year-old freelance designer living in Austin, TX. Up until a month ago, Web3 was just a buzzwordshe kept hearing on Twitter and in podcasts. She wasn’t into crypto, and NFTs seemed like a weird flex for rich people.

But she was also tired of relying on centralized platforms for her freelance work — always worried about algorithm changes, payment delays, and platforms taking a massive cut of her income.

So Sarah decided: "Okay, time to figure out this Web3 thing."

Web3 Is For Everyone

Why Web3 Isn’t Just for Techies and Traders

Web3 has a reputation problem. If you only follow mainstream news, you might think it’s a confusing, scam-ridden world full of hackers, Ponzi schemes, and tech bros. And while, yes, there have been some bad actors in the space, that’s true for every major technological shift—early internet, social media, even mobile banking. The real question isn’t whether Web3 has problems; it’s whether it’s useful for you.

CONNECTIONS: Curated Links for the Web3 Curious

Web3 Starter Resources

Wallets

• MetaMask → https://metamask.io

• Trust Wallet → https://trustwallet.com

• Ledger (Hardware Wallet) → https://www.ledger.com

DeFi Platforms

• Uniswap (DEX) → https://uniswap.org

• Aave (Lending/Borrowing) → https://aave.com

• Compound (DeFi Loans) → https://compound.finance

Web3 Identity

• ENS Domains → https://ens.domains

Crypto Exchanges

• Coinbase → https://coinbase.com

• Kraken → https://kraken.com

• Binance → https://binance.com

Did you miss out on the previous issues of Hashed Out? See them all here!

THE NEWS DROP: Web3 News You Can Use

The Wrap

For those requiring a TLDR or just want a fast recap here it is:

• Want to use Web3 like a pro? This issue kicks off our 8-part series on practical ways everyday people can engage with Web3. We’re breaking down four key areas to help you transition from Web3 newbie to Web3 native.

• Pt. 1: How to Use Web3 Wallets – Learn what Web3 wallets are, how to set one up, and how to secure your crypto like a pro.
  Pt. 2: Learn By Doing - How to Use DeFi – Discover how to earn better interest, swap tokens, and borrow without a bank using DeFi.
  Pt. 3: Setting Up Your Web3 Identity – Own your digital identity with ENS domains and decentralized logins.
  Pt. 4: Getting Started With Crypto – A step-by-step guide to buying, storing, and using crypto safely.

• 🔍 Bonus: We feature a case study of someone going from total Web3 newbie to fully Web3 native, plus an editorial on why Web3 is for everyone.

  💡 TL;DR: Web3 isn’t just for tech bros—it’s for anyone who wants more control over their money, identity, and online presence. Start learning today!

  Stay ahead of Web3’s evolution—subscribe to Hashed Out for expert insights! #Web3 #Blockchain #FutureOfTech

A Look Ahead

Ok, it’s about time to roll the credits! Where do we go from here? We are going to continue our journey towards becoming web3 native by covering the next four areas of web3 you can engage with: NFTs, DAOs, dApps, and Web3 Gaming.

One last call, if you haven’t already, hit the subscribe button below to stay in the know. We have a lot of great stuff ready to be released and we would love for you to join our community and grow with us.

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I hope that you enjoyed this edition of Hashed Out. There is much more to come and your feedback is invaluable to how we will grow. If you have questions or comments drop us a line.

[email protected]

Ok Hashers, that’s The Wrap. Many thanks!

(Cue awesome exit music of your choice)

Dr. Scott