Joshua Friedeman Named Thunder Funder CEO

Thunder Funder Doubles Down on Bitcoin-Only Thesis

Joshua Friedeman took over as CEO of Thunder Funder on May 27, 2025. The company—a registered funding portal focused exclusively on Bitcoin and open-source startups—appointed Friedeman for his combination of hands-on founder engagement and strategic insight.

Since 2022, Friedeman has worked closely with Bitcoin entrepreneurs. Prior to joining Thunder Funder, he led sales and partnerships at Slice, a rewards app that helped thousands of users stack their first sats. He also hosts The Bitcoin Playbook, a podcast where he interviews founders and operators tackling the challenges of building Bitcoin-native companies and integrating Bitcoin into legacy business models.

In addition to his operational experience, Friedeman holds a Ph.D. in organizational leadership, with research focused on the challenges faced by CEOs in the Bitcoin startup ecosystem. That mix of academic depth and frontline experience shapes the builder-first perspective he brings to the role.

“Founders aren’t just seeking capital,” he said when the appointment became official. “They’re looking for partners who share their conviction. Thunder Funder exists to make those connections real, and I’m excited to lead that effort.”

Outgoing CEO and founder Mike Jarmuz called the transition a natural progression: “Josh lives the mission and knows how to execute. Founders already trust him, and the community will feel that from day one.”

Under Friedeman’s leadership, Thunder Funder will continue operating as an SEC- and FINRA-regulated portal under Regulation Crowdfunding. The company remains focused on its Bitcoin-only thesis—funding open-source builders, closing the loop between startups and supporters, and inviting everyday investors to play a direct role in the next wave of Bitcoin innovation.