Web3 CMO Stories Podcast
Guest: John Karp, Founder of NFC Summit
Host: Joeri Billast
“We already have a digital identity that is, in many situations, stronger than our physical identity.”
— John Karp
Introduction
In this episode of Web3 CMO Stories, Joeri Billast speaks with John Karp, founder of NFC Summit, one of the leading Web3 and digital culture conferences in Europe, hosted in Lisbon.
Why NFTs Became a Cultural Movement
John Karp entered the Web3 space during COVID while organizing online events. Initially skeptical about blockchain’s financial aspect, his perspective changed when he discovered NFTs through digital art and metaverse experimentation.
Key Drivers Behind the NFT Movement
- Internet-native art: Inspired by video games, pixels, glitch effects, and manga
- Cultural evolution: Similar to pop art and street art movements
- Decentralization: Direct connection between artists and collectors
- Network ownership: Transparent provenance and social connection between collectors
NFTs represent a new cultural layer of the internet, not just a technological innovation.
The Metaverse Is Already Here
According to John, we are already living in the metaverse through:
- Social media
- Video calls
- Digital identities
In many cases, digital identity has become more important than physical identity.
The Ownership Gap
Today’s digital assets (such as Fortnite skins or digital collectibles) lack true ownership. Users can buy them, but cannot freely trade, transfer, or resell them.
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Prediction: Digital ownership will become a standard across industries.
Why IRL Events Still Matter
Despite digital transformation, physical events remain essential.
Core Benefits of In-Person Events
- Relationship acceleration: Hours in real life equal weeks online
- Community: Stronger human connection
- Self-discovery: Clarity, direction, and new ideas
Key insight: The more digital we become, the more we need real-life interaction.
What Makes NFC Summit Unique
NFC Summit follows a “Year Zero” philosophy: every edition is reinvented.
One Ticket, Multiple Experiences
Attendees get access to eight different events, including:
- NFC Core Event: Digital artists and Web3 culture
- Kawaii Summit: Manga, creators, and Japanese culture
- Stablecoin Track: Finance and infrastructure
- AI Events: Hackathons and education
- Longevity Day: Health and life extension
The goal is cross-pollination: bringing different audiences together to spark new ideas.
How NFC Builds Community
John emphasizes one core principle: give first.
Community Strategies
- Providing platforms for artists to exhibit
- Integrating side events into the main experience
- Creating a “village” environment for interaction
This creates a strong sense of belonging and drives repeat participation.
The Future of Events in an AI World
AI will not replace real-world interaction.
Shift in Event Value
- Less focus on traditional business meetings
- More focus on experience, connection, and discovery
Key principle: Events must focus on what cannot be done at home.
Transformation for Attendees
The goal of NFC is not just networking, but transformation.
- New ideas
- New direction
- New relationships
- Business opportunities
Many meaningful collaborations start in informal settings during the event.
Web3 Meets Culture: Manga and Creator Ecosystems
A major trend discussed in this episode is the convergence of Web3 and culture.
Projects are moving beyond finance and into:
- Storytelling
- Creator support
- Cultural ecosystems
For example, RYO (podcast sponsor) recently launched a manga series, showing how Web3 is evolving into a cultural infrastructure.
Where to Learn More
- Website: nfcsummit.com
- Twitter (X): John Karp
- LinkedIn: John Karp
Key Takeaways
- NFTs are a cultural movement, not just technology
- Digital identity is becoming dominant
- Ownership is the missing layer of the internet
- IRL events are increasing in value
- Community is the foundation of successful ecosystems
- The future of events is experiential
- Web3 is merging with culture and creators