Team
Meet the CPAI team combining deep expertise in blockchain technology, machine learning, and tax regulations to develop sophisticated software that automates and streamlines the complex process of cryptocurrency tax reconciliation.
Derek Wride is the CEO and Founder of Hello Beam, a company specializing in simplifying cryptocurrency tax transactions. With an early career in filmmaking, Derek transitioned into the crypto industry after an unconventional apprenticeship with entrepreneur Scott Paul, where he was paid entirely in cryptocurrency for over a year. This unique experience exposed him to the complexities of managing crypto tax data firsthand.
Determined to find a better way, Derek developed solutions that streamline the reconciliation and reporting of digital asset activities. Through MoonTax, he has implemented these solutions across multiple crypto businesses ultimately building Hello Beam, turning complex tax challenges into straightforward processes. His focus is on helping companies navigate the intricacies of crypto accounting with precision and efficiency.
Under Derek's leadership, his businesses have saved over 700 clients more than $50 million in miscalculated taxes by correcting discrepancies and ensuring accurate reporting. By leveraging machine learning and advanced AI technology, he continues to innovate in the field, making crypto accounting more accurate and consistent.
Derek's journey reflects a relentless pursuit of innovation and problem-solving. His expertise at the intersection of technology, finance, and entrepreneurship contributes significantly to the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Jepson has over 18 years of machine-learning experience. After studying chemical engineering Jepson worked for Intel/Micron in applied semiconductor building process control and fault models. After that, he worked as a quant at a hedge fund on a 600 GPU cluster. Taylor then joined a young Sequoia-backed HR startup called HireVue to run their data group where they delivered 14 patents. In 2017 Jepson co-founded Zeff.ai with David Gonzalez to pursue deep learning for image, audio, video, and text for the enterprise. Zeff was acquired by DataRobot in 2020 where Jepson worked as their Chief AI Evangelist until joining Dataiku as their Chief AI Strategist. Jepson is currently launching a new AI company focused on the next generation of AI which will be announced in 2024. Jepson is very active in the global startup communities.
As CTO of CPAI, Isaiah brings engineering experience from both fintech startups and established banking platforms, where he specialized in developing secure, high-performance applications. His work in the cryptocurrency space combines technical expertise with practical understanding of blockchain technologies. At CPAI, he leads the engineering team in developing machine learning solutions that tackle the complexity of cryptocurrency transaction analysis. His focus is on building robust, user-focused products that transform intricate financial data into clear, actionable insights.
I have always been a natural entrepreneur, starting my first business as a teenager mowing lawns for neighbors. That early drive to create value and build relationships set the stage for a diverse and dynamic career. Over the years, I have gained experience across industries and cultures, developing the skills that now guide my leadership at HelloBeam.My professional journey began with roles that honed my communication and sales abilities, such as door-to-door sales for pest control and home security systems. From there, I explored construction, wireless internet installation, banking as a teller, and working as a Starbucks barista. Seeking more innovative opportunities, I became a master grower in the cannabis industry, where I earned a patent for light deprivation greenhouse systems.As my career evolved, I worked as a project research assistant at a law firm and co-founded an insulation business aimed at improving energy efficiency in homes. My commitment to wellness and personal growth led me to India, where I became a yoga teacher trainer, sharing my passion for mindfulness and movement with others. I also explored the dental field extensively, working as a sterile tech, dental assistant, marketing manager, and office manager.In addition to these hands-on roles, I gained invaluable experience in the manufacturing industry, supporting dietary supplement and cosmetic product clients with R&D, branding, and sourcing. I also excelled as a commodities broker, facilitating deals in oil, gas, road salt, and personal protection equipment.In 2018, I became "crypto-curious," captivated by the potential of blockchain technology and decentralized finance. This led me to cofound a project management company, focusing on diversifying client portfolios. During this time, I met Derek Wride, who had founded Moontax, a crypto tax software company. Enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to this growing field, I joined the venture, which has since evolved into HelloBeam, an AI-driven crypto accounting software.Throughout my career, I have lived in Brazil, Italy, India, Arizona, California, Texas, Virginia, and Colorado. These experiences have immersed me in various cultures, giving me a deep understanding of people and societies. This global perspective has shaped my exceptional communication and negotiation skills, which I leverage to build relationships, manage teams, and expand HelloBeam’s client base.As president of HelloBeam, I focus on helping clients achieve two vital goals: staying legally compliant and minimizing tax liability. By combining accurate data reconciliation with tax filing and strategic advisory services, I aim to position HelloBeam as the premier solution for crypto tax calculations.Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, yoga, golf, disc golf, and exploring new cultures. A linguistics enthusiast, I speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, and have a foundational understanding of German. I am an avid reader of sci-fi, fantasy, and philosophy, driven by a passion for personal growth, new experiences, and fostering harmony and balance in all areas of life.
Nate is an experienced business executive and operator with a history of successful companies in the tax, finance, and accounting industries. Nate has built multiple successful businesses, many of which have operated internationally, and has shown a successful track record of scaling operations and teams. Nate focuses on ensuring there is a quality experience between the right value-propositions to those in demand of that value.
Nate is a venture-capital investor who loves the creation process and seeing ventures grow. He has invested in over 40 private companies. Nate began investing in and trading digital assets over eight years ago and co-founded the crypto-tax-reconciliation company Moontax and its flagship reconciliation technology tool named CPAI. Nate advises the company’s operation, finance, and technology strategy.
Nate loves to travel, spend time, and immerse himself in the culture of his many international friends. Nate has two separate bachelor’s degrees from Utah State University; one in Economics and another in Entrepreneurial Business Administration with a minor degree in International Business.
Ephraim is a practicing tax attorney and partner in several successful companies in the tax and technology spaces. Ephraim attended Harvard Law School and has an advanced tax law degree from NYU Law School. He practices in the area of complex income tax planning for corporations and partnerships, including Qualified Small Business Stock structuring and corporate structuring to take advantage of residing in Puerto Rico. Ephraim also focuses his practice on the taxation of digital assets and has written tax opinion letters for clients on several areas of crypto taxation, such as the non-taxability of wrapping digital assets, borrowing against digital assets, and entries and exits from liquidity pools. Ephraim has also co-founded several technology companies.
Keanu Estanol has been with HelloBeam Inc. for nearly two years, joining the team in February. With a background deeply rooted in technology, IT, and cybersecurity, Keanu initially didn’t envision himself as a COO. His journey began in social engineering, working as a debt collector and loss mitigation specialist for six years, where he gained valuable experience in fraud detection, loan management, and amortizations.
Keanu’s introduction to cryptocurrency dates back to 2013, where he began trading World of Warcraft gold for Bitcoin. By the 2015–2017 bull run, he was deeply engaged in the crypto space. Transitioning into IT information systems, Keanu worked as a NOC engineer, which enhanced his ability to analyze blockchain data, understand networks and subnets, and tackle emerging cyber threats. His first day as a NOC engineer coincided with the infamous Sunburst attack on SolarWinds, sparking a career defined by handling complex cyberattacks and leveraging these experiences to innovate within the blockchain ecosystem.
As COO of HelloBeam Inc., Keanu has spearheaded significant advancements, particularly with MoonTax, the company’s flagship crypto tax reconciliation platform. Under his leadership, MoonTax has doubled its client capacity and operational speed compared to industry peers. This success is attributed to Keanu’s strategic adoption of AI and large language models to streamline operations, improve product development, and enhance blockchain data analysis.Beyond the professional sphere, Keanu is passionate about using blockchain technology to benefit underrepresented communities and address societal challenges. He envisions leveraging crypto to improve city infrastructures, create energy innovations, and provide opportunities for marginalized groups, such as enabling homeless individuals to earn money through recycling initiatives.
Keanu’s leadership combines technical expertise with a forward-thinking vision, cementing his role as a trailblazer in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry. His focus remains on building a better, more inclusive future through the transformative power of technology.
With over 15 years of technology experience and a specialized focus on Web3 since 2022, Krystee drives innovation at the intersection of blockchain technology and consumer accessibility. As Head of Product, she has pioneered solutions that democratize access to Web3 technologies through intuitive design and artificial intelligence.Currently leading product strategy and design for CPAI, Krystee oversees the development of revolutionary crypto tax software that leverages AI to transform complex blockchain transactions into user-friendly experiences. Her dual role as lead designer and development team manager ensures seamless integration between vision and execution.