If you are a business leader trying to get past AI chatter and buzzwords, this episode will help you cut through the noise. Chuck Templeton sits down with longtime friend and generative AI strategist Justin Massa for one of our most actionable conversations to date. Whether you’re trying to figure out what AI means for your business or frustrated by AI tools that don’t deliver, Justin offers clarifying frameworks, real-world case studies, and an accessible perspective on how business leaders can integrate generative AI to drive real, tangible value. In this episode, Chuck and Justin cover a wide range of topics from how to think about “the jagged frontier” of AI capabilities, when to use a frontier model versus AI products, how the technology will shape companies and industries, when AI agents might come into play, and how to transform your AI strategy from ad hoc experimentation to holistic transformation. This episode is packed with insights for anyone trying to navigate the tension between risk, opportunity, and speed in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Jagged Frontier: Justin introduces the concept of the jagged frontier, where AI outperforms in some tasks but fails in others, and its capabilities are continuously in flux.
2. CEOs Should Lead the Charge: According to Justin, CEOs must be direct users of AI tools. Think of learning AI like learning to ride a bike: no amount of theory substitutes for falling, getting back up, and finally figuring it out.
3. Frameworks for Implementation: Justin outlines three paths to integrating AI: as a technique (low lift), a jig (a custom-built tool for a specific job), or a tool (enterprise software, larger investment). Each has a different speed, cost, and return profile.
4. AI Ethics: According to Justin, there are three layers of ethics and governance when it comes to AI: creation, operation, and application. The application level in particular demands an ethics and governance policy that is constantly evolving.
5. AI Won’t Replace Your Team–But it Will Reshape How They Work: Justin shares that companies like Red Antler are already seeing employees “buy back” large percentages of their time using generative AI, and reinvesting it into creative, strategic work.

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This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G. Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. Specific companies mentioned in this podcast are for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any kind. S2G holds positions in the companies referenced, but this podcast is for information purposes only and is not intended to promote any such company. All views of the guests on this podcast are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of S2G. Any past performance discussed is not indicative of future results. Chuck Templeton is a Managing Partner at S2G Investments. All Chuck's views, and the views of the guests on this podcast, are solely their opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of S2G. The views expressed herein are opinions based on certain assumptions and subject to change.

For more important information, please see s2ginvestments.com/disclosures.

In this “The Experts” episode, Chuck Templeton sits down with Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, marine biologist, policy expert, author, and climate visionary. They discuss Ayana’s most recent book What If We Get It Right: Visions of Climate Futures, which uses a blend of interviews, essays, and art to imagine a world where climate solutions lead to healthier ecosystems and thriving communities. In this episode, Ayana challenges us to reframe climate action as an opportunity rather than a burden and emphasizes that focusing on what’s possible can inspire more people to get involved. Using strategies like a climate Venn diagram, or breaking down jargon to find common ground, Ayana shares how anyone can find their place in climate work and bring others into the fold. At the end of the episode, we hear from a few of our entrepreneurs about their visions for the future and how they think about centering themselves in their own climate Venn diagrams. Climate work can be challenging, but Ayana’s refreshing perspective makes it feel not just possible, but deeply motivating.

Key Topics:

1. Climate Action as an Opportunity: Ayana emphasizes the importance of focusing on the potential gains of climate solutions, like cleaner air, healthier communities, and better jobs, rather than the sacrifices involved. This positive framing can inspire broader support and faster adoption.
   
   
2. Crafting a Climate Venn Diagram: Ayana introduces the Climate Venn Diagram as a strategic tool to help individuals align their skills, passions, and climate needs. This tool can help ensure that efforts are both impactful and personally fulfilling.
   
   
3. The Power of Local Engagement: Rather than waiting for federal policies, Ayana advocates for grassroots action. Whether it's attending town meetings or influencing planning, so many important things happen on the local level and community involvement can build momentum for larger systemic shifts.
   
   
4. Reframing Issues: Ayana emphasizes that using clear, relatable language helps build consensus and makes solutions more accessible to everyone, regardless of background or expertise.
   
   
5. Action Instead of Hope: Ayana argues that it's not about being optimistic – it’s about recognizing that we have the solutions and we just need to find ways to implement them.

This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G. Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. Specific companies mentioned in this podcast are for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any kind. S2G holds positions in the companies referenced, but this podcast is for information purposes only and is not intended to promote any such company. All views of the guests on this podcast are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of S2G. Any past performance discussed is not indicative of future results. Chuck Templeton is a Managing Partner at S2G Investments. All Chuck's views, and the views of the guests on this podcast, are solely their opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of S2G. The views expressed herein are opinions based on certain assumptions and subject to change.

For more important information, please see s2ginvestments.com/disclosures.

In this episode of the S2G podcast, Chuck Templeton sits down with Jordan Schenck, the newly appointed CEO of Flashfood, to discuss the company’s triple-bottom-line solution to a massive problem: food waste. Flashfood is flipping the script on grocery store surplus by turning what would have been fodder for landfills into affordable, high-quality meals for customers–all while boosting retailer foot traffic and revenue. Jordan shares how Flashfood is harnessing data to build strong customer relationships, honing in on messaging, and gearing up for growth. If you’re looking for a masterclass in transforming challenges into opportunities and designing solutions that work better for people and the planet, this episode is packed with food for thought.

Key Topics:

1. Data as a Competitive Edge: As Flashfood continues to build out the platform’s real-time data collection capabilities, it can offer retailers valuable, actionable insights into shopper behavior and product demand.
2. Building Brand Loyalty: Flashfood's model doesn't just move surplus food—it builds deeper customer loyalty by offering value and sustainability. Shoppers using Flashfood visit stores more frequently, making it a revenue-driving tool rather than just a sustainability effort.
3. Keeping Up with Consumer Expectations: No matter how much shoppers care about sustainability, they expect convenience. Flashfood addresses this by making it easy for consumers to purchase discounted items via a simple app, helping retailers meet evolving demands while also enhancing their brand image.
4. Flexibility for Retailers: Flashfood's platform integrates into existing store workflows, making it easy for grocery employees to list surplus items quickly. This operational simplicity is crucial for scaling the solution across retail environments.
5. The Human Element: Beyond reducing food waste, Flashfood’s platform makes groceries more affordable, especially for low-income families—an aspect that resonates with both customers and retailers.

This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G. Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. Specific companies mentioned in this podcast are for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any kind. S2G holds positions in the companies referenced, but this podcast is for information purposes only and is not intended to promote any such company. All views of the guests on this podcast are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of S2G. Any past performance discussed is not indicative of future results. Chuck Templeton is a Managing Partner at S2G Investments. All Chuck's views, and the views of the guests on this podcast, are solely their opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of S2G. The views expressed herein are opinions based on certain assumptions and subject to change.

For more important information, please see s2ginvestments.com/disclosures.