Web3. It's a buzzword. A bit scary. And for many small business owners, still a complete mystery. But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered.
In episode 189 of The Monday Morning Marketing Podcast, Esther sat down with Joeri Billast, a Web3 CMO, author, and podcast host, to unpack exactly what Web3 is and how small businesses can use it to their advantage.
From Web1 to Web3: A Quick Recap
Joeri explained the progression of the internet in simple terms:
- Web1: The early days — read-only content. Think static websites and basic browsing.
- Web2: Interaction — social media, blogs, user-generated content. But all controlled by large centralised platforms (yes, we’re looking at you, Facebook).
- Web3: The next evolution — decentralised and owned by the users. Your data, your control.
What Does "Decentralised" Mean (And Should You Be Worried)?
We get it. The word "decentralised" sounds a bit rebellious — like something out of a hacker movie. But in essence, it just means there’s no middleman. With Web3, your data isn't stored on someone else's server. You own it, you manage it, and only you can give access to it.
This does come with responsibility — there’s no password reset if you forget your details. But the upside? Far more privacy and independence.
What Is Blockchain and Why Should You Care?
Think of the blockchain as a permanent notebook. Once something is written in it (a transaction, a contract, ownership of a digital item), it can’t be erased or changed. That’s why it’s being used for everything from cryptocurrency to secure contracts.
What About NFTs?
No, not just digital monkey pictures.
NFTs (non-fungible tokens) can be used by small businesses in some pretty clever ways. For example:
- A fitness studio could give NFT memberships.
- A shoe shop could offer loyalty points via NFTs.
- An event organiser could issue tickets as NFTs — scan and go.
These tokens live in a user’s digital wallet and can be transferred, gifted, or sold, making them super flexible for real-world business applications.
So What Do You Need to Get Started?
The short version:
- A wallet (software like MetaMask works in your browser).
- Maybe a Web3 domain name (for branding).
- A little curiosity.
You don’t need to dive in headfirst. Joeri recommends starting small — listen to podcasts (like his or ours), follow credible voices on social media, and try getting a free NFT just to see how it works.
But Is It Safe?
Just like Web2, there are scams in Web3. You still need to be careful what you click and who you trust. But the tech itself is secure. It’s how you use it that matters.
Keep your seed phrase safe. (Think of it like your house key. Lose it, and you’re locked out.)
Will Web3 Replace Web2?
Not immediately. Joeri suggests we’re in a Web 2.5 phase right now — a blend of traditional platforms with emerging decentralised solutions. But the movement is gaining momentum.
If you're in business, it’s worth keeping an eye on Web3. It’s not about jumping ship today but about preparing for what’s next.
So What Now?
Web3 can sound complicated, but it’s essentially about ownership, transparency, and connection. For small businesses, that means:
- More control over your brand and customer data.
- Innovative ways to engage loyal customers.
- New business models that could open up as the tech evolves.
Dip a toe in. Explore. Learn. Because the businesses that understand Web3 now will have a big head start in the years to come.
