Joey Bertschler, once a stalwart at OpenAI, is now channeling his expertise into the burgeoning world of blockchain with a new venture called Volante Chain. Announced today, June 17, 2025, Bertschler’s platform aims to revolutionize how wages are distributed by leveraging the power of cryptocurrency—marking a significant shift from his AI roots to the decentralized finance sphere.
Disrupting Payroll: The Vision Behind Volante Chain
Bertschler’s transition from AI to blockchain isn’t just a career pivot; it’s a statement. After expressing dissatisfaction with certain aspects of OpenAI’s corporate culture, he’s set out to forge a path in an industry where transparency and decentralization are more than just buzzwords—they’re foundational principles. Volante Chain seeks to streamline the payment process, offering real-time wage access that could effectively eliminate the traditional bi-weekly or monthly payroll cycles.
“This isn’t just about faster payments,” Bertschler said in a recent interview. “It’s about empowering individuals with greater control over their earnings.” By utilizing blockchain technology, Volante Chain promises to provide a secure and immutable record of transactions, which is particularly appealing in an era where data breaches seem almost routine.
Expert Opinions: Is Crypto Payroll the Future?
The concept of crypto-based payroll systems is not entirely new, but Bertschler’s approach is gaining attention for its potential to disrupt the status quo. Financial analyst Maria Gonzales believes this could be a game-changer. “If Volante Chain delivers on its promises, it could redefine how we think about salary distribution. Instant access to wages could significantly improve financial stability for many workers,” she noted.
However, Gonzales also pointed out the challenges: “Regulatory hurdles are inevitable. Governments worldwide are still catching up with crypto regulations, and this could slow Volante’s progress.” Her words echo the sentiments of many in the industry who see the potential but are wary of the legal landscape. For a deeper dive into the regulatory implications, see our coverage of the SEC’s latest guidance.
It’s not just analysts who are weighing in. Crypto enthusiasts are buzzing about the potential integration of decentralized finance (DeFi) principles into everyday transactions. “We’ve seen how DeFi can unlock new financial opportunities,” remarked blockchain consultant Ethan Patel. “Applying it to payroll could be a logical next step.” This follows a pattern of regulatory interest, as Europe gears up to regulate DeFi in 2026, as detailed in our recent article.
Navigating the Crypto Terrain: Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimism, Bertschler and his team face significant challenges. The volatility of cryptocurrencies, for one, poses a risk to both employers and employees. Imagine receiving your paycheck in Bitcoin one day, only to find its value plummeting the next. Volante will need robust systems to mitigate such risks—perhaps through stablecoins or hedging strategies.
Then there’s the matter of adoption. While tech-savvy firms might eagerly jump on board, convincing traditional businesses to switch to a crypto-based payroll system could be a tougher sell. Bertschler seems unperturbed by these hurdles, viewing them instead as opportunities for innovation. “Every challenge is a chance to build something better,” he insists.
Looking Forward: What Lies Ahead for Volante Chain?
As Bertschler embarks on this ambitious journey, the crypto community watches closely. The coming months will be critical as Volante Chain rolls out its pilot programs and navigates the intricate web of regulations. Success could mean a new era of financial autonomy for workers worldwide. But failure—a reminder of the hurdles that still need to be overcome in the crypto space.
However, Bertschler’s resolve appears unshaken. With a blend of technical acumen and a pioneering spirit, he’s set on proving that blockchain isn’t just a future technology—it’s a present-day solution to age-old problems. As the lines between cryptocurrency and everyday financial transactions continue to blur, Volante Chain is poised to be at the forefront of this revolution.
In a world where financial landscapes are rapidly evolving, Bertschler’s venture raises pivotal questions about the future of payroll and financial freedom. Will Volante Chain fulfill its promise of transforming wage distribution? Only time will reveal the answers, but one thing is certain: Bertschler’s journey from AI to blockchain is a testament to the ever-changing nature of technology and innovation.
Source
This article is based on: From OpenAI to blockchain: Joey Bertschler builds crypto wage access platform
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Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
