Ben Kurland on Leading DYOR Labs and Transforming DeFi Research

Q1. You’ve had a unique journey from being a Hollywood actor to becoming the CEO of DYOR Labs. What inspired this transition, and how have your previous experiences shaped your approach to building this platform?

I’ve always been drawn to storytelling and connecting with people, whether on screen or in the boardroom. My transition to crypto came from a passion for innovation and problem-solving, which aligns with my creative roots. Hollywood taught me the value of resilience, adaptability, and meticulous preparation—qualities that have been invaluable in building DYOR. In both industries, success requires crafting something meaningful and connecting it to an audience, whether it’s a story or a groundbreaking platform.

Q2. You’ve mentioned personal encounters with crypto scams. Can you share one of those experiences and explain how it influenced your decision to create DYOR Labs?

One of the most devastating experiences was with Celsius. I even met Alex Mashinsky at Consensus in 2018, where he personally pitched me on the project. He came across as trustworthy and convincing, which made the eventual collapse and betrayal all the more shocking. Losing funds through Celsius underscored just how hard it is to know who to trust in this space. It was a harsh reminder of the fundamental principle: not your keys, not your crypto. That experience fueled the determination to create DYOR Labs—a fully decentralized platform that prioritizes transparency and equips users with the tools to make informed, independent decisions.

Q3. Despite many warnings, scams remain a significant issue in the DeFi world. Why do you think this is still so prevalent, and how can tools like DYOR make a difference?

Scams persist because the decentralized nature of DeFi allows anyone to launch a project, making it easy for bad actors to exploit the lack of regulation and due diligence in the space. The speed of transactions and the complexity of smart contracts also make it difficult for users to detect issues before it’s too late. DYOR combats this by simulating transactions in real-time, identifying risks like rug pulls and honey pots before they occur. Combined with advanced analytics, transparency tools, and community insights, DYOR enables users to proactively protect their investments and fosters a safer environment for everyone.

Q4. DYOR is being called a “one-stop shop” for crypto research. What key features make it stand out from other research platforms in the industry?

DYOR stands out by going far beyond traditional charting platforms, offering a fully integrated experience for traders and token issuers alike. For traders, features like live social streams directly on token pages provide real-time insights, while fraud detection tools such as real-time simulations actively prevent risky trades by flagging potential rug pulls or honey pots before they execute. The platform’s customizable dashboards and advanced analytics cater to users of all experience levels, ensuring everyone can navigate the DeFi space with confidence and precision.

For token issuers, DYOR is a game-changer. The platform provides a robust dashboard where teams can update project information, launch airdrop campaigns, lock liquidity, and analyze performance—all from one central hub. This eliminates the need for multiple third-party tools, saving teams significant costs and streamlining their workflows. By combining these advanced tools with unparalleled transparency and user-centric design, DYOR not only empowers traders but also helps token projects grow more effectively and securely. It’s the ultimate solution for anyone looking to succeed in the world of crypto.

Q5. How does DYOR’s real-time analytics work, and how can it help investors spot red flags or make better decisions in a fast-moving market?

Our real-time analytics aggregate data from multiple sources, including market trends, social activity, and on-chain metrics, delivering actionable insights instantly. For example, unusual wallet activity, sudden liquidity changes, or unexpected shifts in sentiment can be flagged immediately. This helps investors act quickly to capitalize on opportunities or avoid potential risks in the volatile crypto landscape.

Q6. Customizability is a big selling point. How does DYOR cater to the needs of both novice and experienced DeFi investors?

DYOR is built on the principle that one size doesn’t fit all in the complex world of DeFi. What makes us unique is our ability to offer distinct experiences tailored to different expertise levels—beginners, intermediates, and experts. Beginners are guided through simplified dashboards, tutorials, and workflows designed to ease their entry into crypto without overwhelming them. Intermediates gain access to features like trend analysis, technical charts, and automated alerts, helping them refine their strategies. Experts can customize advanced workflows, leverage granular analytics, and integrate third-party tools for seamless execution of complex strategies.

This tiered approach ensures every user gets exactly what they need to succeed, no matter their experience level. Combined with modular dashboards, personalized alerts, and an intuitive interface, DYOR provides unparalleled adaptability. Whether you’re making your first trade or optimizing a sophisticated portfolio, DYOR is designed to meet you where you are and grow with you as your knowledge and needs evolve.

Q7. With scams and misinformation rampant, how does DYOR Labs ensure the credibility of the data and insights it provides?

Credibility starts with verified data sources, rigorous vetting processes, and community involvement. DYOR integrates trusted APIs, partners with industry leaders GoPlus, UNCX Halborn and Solidproof, and encourages user-generated reviews. Our scoring system and transparency-first approach ensure that the insights shared are reliable and actionable, fostering trust in an industry where that’s often lacking.

Q8. What steps is DYOR Labs taking to build a community around its platform and foster a culture of informed investing?

We’re building a community through AMAs, collaborative integrations with token teams, and incentivized engagement via staking and voting. DYOR’s features, like live social streams, encourage real-time interaction and transparency, creating a space where users and projects can connect meaningfully. Our initiatives also include educational campaigns to empower investors and cultivate a culture of informed decision-making.

Q9. You’re launching a token on December 3rd. Can you share how this token integrates into the DYOR ecosystem and its role in the platform’s future?

The $DYOR token is the backbone of our ecosystem. It offers discounts on platform fees, access to premium features, and staking rewards tied to active participation. Users can stake tokens to vote on projects, influence visibility, and even unlock early insights into upcoming launches. The token fosters a self-sustaining ecosystem where user engagement directly contributes to growth and innovation.

Q10. Beyond the token launch, what exciting developments or features can we expect from DYOR Labs in the near future?

Post-launch, we’re focusing on enhancing the user experience with AI tools, sentiment tracking, and cross-chain functionality. Our upcoming milestones include expanding social streaming capabilities, onboarding thousands of token projects, and integrating portfolio tracking with real-time push notifications. These developments will solidify DYOR as the go-to platform for crypto investors and token teams alike.

Q11. DYOR Labs aims to set a new standard for research and transparency in DeFi. What does that look like to you in practical terms? How does DYOR Labs plan to empower the next generation of DeFi investors, especially those new to the space?

Setting a new standard in DeFi means closing the gaps in accessibility, security, and usability that currently hinder the space. Practically, this involves building tools that are both powerful and intuitive. DYOR transforms raw data into actionable insights through features like real-time trade simulations that detect potential scams, live social streams that provide transparency into project activity, and community-driven reviews that spotlight trustworthy initiatives. These tools ensure users can navigate the space with clarity and confidence.

For new investors, DYOR simplifies the complexities of crypto with guided workflows, beginner-friendly dashboards, and educational resources. Experienced investors benefit from highly customizable interfaces, advanced analytics, and features like sentiment tracking and liquidity metrics to sharpen their decision-making. DYOR empowers users at every level by not only displaying data but interpreting it—highlighting unusual wallet activity, liquidity changes, or other red flags in real time. By combining this with integrations from trusted partners like Solidproof and community-driven governance, DYOR is shaping the next generation of informed, independent, and secure DeFi investors.

Q12. What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for the DeFi space in the next 5 years, and how does DYOR Labs fit into that future?

The biggest challenges will be regulatory clarity, scalability, and combating scams. At the same time, the opportunity lies in onboarding millions of new users by improving accessibility and trust. DYOR is poised to be a key player in addressing these challenges, offering tools that bridge gaps in transparency and education while paving the way for a more mature DeFi ecosystem.

Q13. If you could give one piece of advice to someone entering the crypto space today, what would it be?

Never invest more than you’re willing to lose, and always do your own research. The crypto space is exciting but also rife with risks. Equip yourself with the right tools, stay informed, and prioritize security above all else. Trust but verify—that mindset will serve you well.

BIO

Spokesperson: Ben Kurland

Company: DYORLabs
Based in: USA, UAE

Bio: Ben Kurland is a professional in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space, recognized for his strategic insight and leadership in Web3 innovation. As a co-founder of DYORLabs, Ben has been instrumental in building a platform that empowers investors with advanced research tools and AI-driven insights. His expertise spans across blockchain technology, digital asset management, and decentralized finance (DeFi).

With a passion for fostering transparency and education in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape, Ben continues to drive forward innovative solutions that help investors make informed decisions. His work is dedicated to simplifying access to blockchain insights, ensuring users are equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital asset world.