Ever wonder what happens when digital innovation meets the human need for connection? In this special episode of Web3 CMO Stories, the tables are turned as our usual host, Joeri Billast, becomes the guest, sharing his insights on the Cryptopolitan podcast (hosted by Earl Flormata) about his exciting Web3 ventures.

The Web3 CMO Stories podcast features a role reversal as host Joeri Billast shares his insights as a guest on the Crypto Bulletin podcast, discussing his various Web3 projects and philosophies. Yuri explores the importance of human connection in an increasingly AI-driven world, explaining how his Portugal-based Web3 retreat offers an "anti-conference" experience where founders can connect authentically while enjoying nature.

• Creation of Sintra Synergies, a Web3/AI retreat in Portugal designed as an alternative to noisy conferences
• Development of Rio Chan, a meme coin with real utility backed by RioCoin from Japan
• Advisory role with SecretsFold, offering cryptographic seed phrase protection through images
• Emerging trend of combining online community building with meaningful in-person connections
• The power of walks in nature to solve problems and generate fresh ideas
• Building "digital real estate" through consistent content creation across multiple platforms
• Overcoming perfectionism by "just starting" even when you think no one is listening
• Using speaking to overcome writing challenges when creating books and content

From CMO to Community Builder: Joeri Billast on Real Connections in the Web3 & AI Era

In a space where decentralization, digital innovation, and constant connectivity are the norm, Joeri Billast stands out by bringing the focus back to something timeless: human connection.

Joeri, the host of the Web3 CMO Stories podcast and founder of multiple initiatives in the Web3 and AI space, recently switched roles from interviewer to interviewee on the Crypto Bulletin podcast. In this conversation, he revealed how he's redefining success in Web3—not just through projects and products, but through purpose-driven communities.

The Birth of Sintra Synergies: An “Anti-Conference” for Web3 Innovators

After relocating from Belgium to Portugal in 2023, Joeri launched Sintra Synergies, a Web3-AI retreat in the scenic region of Sintra. More than just a networking event, Sintra Synergies blends innovation, nature, wellness, and community.

“Conferences are great,” Joeri says, “but they can also be overwhelming. People crave real community and meaningful connection.” This retreat offers workshops, wellness activities, hikes, and space to slow down—designed specifically for Web3 founders who are used to always being "plugged in."

The Projects Powering His Mission

In addition to hosting his podcast, Joeri is involved in several forward-thinking Web3 projects:

• RYO: A Japanese project featuring RYO-Coin and an upcoming meme coin, RYO-CHAN, which Joeri describes as “fun but with real utility.”
• Secrets Vault: A security-focused solution that protects your seed phrase using cryptography and image-based encryption.
• Web3 CMO Stories Podcast: Supported by CoinDesk and RYO, Joeri’s podcast highlights strategies and stories from marketing leaders in the Web3 space.

Web3 + AI: Balancing Tech with Humanity

Joeri emphasizes that while AI is accelerating innovation, it’s also creating a gap: the absence of authentic human interaction. That’s why his work increasingly bridges online and offline experiences.

“AI can automate. But people still need people. That’s why I’m creating space – literally – for that to happen,” he says.

From Twitter Spaces to in-person hikes in Portugal, Joeri advocates for a hybrid approach: combining the scalability of online tools with the intimacy of face-to-face experiences.

How Nature Fuels His Creativity

Joeri’s not just talking about balance, he lives it. When he’s not recording podcasts or advising projects, he’s hiking in Sintra’s lush forests or walking along Portugal’s beaches.

“I get my best ideas on walks,” he says. “Instead of staring at a screen for hours, I step outside and let the ideas come to me. Then I record my thoughts, feed them into AI, and refine them.”

This blend of natural creativity and digital tools is part of what makes Joeri’s approach unique.

On Writing, Speaking, and Creating Digital Legacy

A published author with books on Web3 and the metaverse, Joeri’s first book took two years until he discovered he could speak it. “I’m better at talking than writing,” he laughs, “so I recorded my thoughts and worked with a copywriter. The book was ready in three weeks.”

With AI tools today, this process is even easier. His advice to aspiring authors? Just start. Speak if you’re stuck. And don’t do it alone: get a coach or accountability partner.

Building a Digital Legacy, One Voice at a Time

Joeri's final message was simple but powerful:

Whether it’s through blogs, books, podcasts, or public speaking, Joeri’s story is a reminder that authenticity and consistency matter and they open doors when you least expect it.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS 

[01:11] Can you share a bit about yourself and what you're currently working on? 

[03:27] As a Web3 CMO, what new trends or shifts are you seeing in how projects market and build community today? 

[05:07] What do you do for fun and personal connection when you're not working on your podcast? 

[09:24] What kind of communities are you building and where? How can we connect with you and see your projects? 

[10:18] What words of wisdom do you have for the audience, especially regarding Web3 and being a CMO? 

[12:16] What advice would you give to aspiring authors? Should they push forward and write their book? 

[13:34] Any parting words of wisdom before we wrap up? 

NOTABLE QUOTES 

"The human connection becomes more important than ever because of AI. People are really looking for that human connection in Web3." 

"I see a need for people to meet others in real life. We see the trend of AI and Web3 converging. People use a lot of AI to automate, and the human touch is a bit lacking." 

"You never know what is your strength. A weakness that you think is a weakness can become a strength. So that's my advice: Just do it." 

"If people are scared to do something, I would say just do it or just ask. Don't worry too much about what others might say." 

"Even if you think that no one is listening, there is always someone listening. We get value from your message and you never know what impact that message will have in the future." 

MENTIONED RESOURCES 

Cryptopolitan: https://www.cryptopolitan.com