The S2G Podcast

S2G’s Managing Partner and VP of Community discuss key drivers of change in food, agriculture, and energy sectors. They emphasize innovation, business model innovation, engaging industry giants, and storytelling for fostering sustainability and resilience. Collaboration with industry players, leveraging storytelling to shape behaviors, and transitioning to clean energy are key components highlighted in the podcast.

In this episode, we are sharing a panel on “Nutrition at the Forefront of Health” from the S2G summit. Matt Walker, Managing Director on S2G’s Food & Agriculture team,  interviewed Susan Bukata, Professor and Chair of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of California San Diego, Bill Dietz, Director of Research and Policy at the Global Food Institute at George Washington University,  and Howard Lossing, former CEO of Cambrooke Therapeutics, about the growing influence and importance of nutrition in the healthcare sector. The panelists discussed the need for more science and data-backed nutrition interventions while also emphasizing the key role that education across stakeholder groups will play in realizing widespread adoption. They draw from their remarkable and lengthy careers in the healthcare sector to provide both optimism and realism to the increasingly popular field of food and nutrition-based health solutions. Key Topics:Integrating Nutrition and Healthcare Strategies: Aligning food and healthcare systems offers economic prospects and improved health outcomes. Taking a Data-Driven Approach to Nutrition Interventions: Robust data validation is critical for the successful adoption of nutrition-focused health solutions. However, panelists discuss how not all nutrition-based interventions may require pharma-level studies.Balancing Personalized Nutrition and Population Health: Patients tend to see themselves as the medical anomoly but most people are “part of the herd” as Susan Bukata puts it, when it comes to medical issues. Our panelists discuss that while there is potential for personalized medicine to treat people as individuals, many of our greatest healthcare advancements have been in the realm of population health. Addressing Nutritional Education Gaps in Medical Training: Limited nutrition education in medical training hampers effective dietary recommendations by healthcare professionals. Overcoming this educational gap is crucial for integrating nutrition seamlessly into standard healthcare practices.Collaboration for More Effective Outcomes: Government bodies, healthcare professionals, and industry stakeholders must collaborate to enhance compliance and amplify the impact of nutrition interventions. Resources:Global Food InstituteCambrooke TherapeuticsThis 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, we’re exploring the pivotal role of data to not only protect our ocean but to better leverage its immense potential to foster climate resilience and drive a sustainable marine economy. At the S2G Summit, Larsen Mettler, Oceans Managing Director at S2G, led a panel with Kimberly Mathisen, CEO at Hub Ocean, Justin Manley, Senior Advisor at OceanKind, and Zack Baize, Program Manager at NOAA’s Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Accelerator. The panelists discuss the opportunity to scale data collection technologies, develop new ownership frameworks, and integrate diverse data streams. As we continue to gather more ocean data than ever before, it will take great creativity and collaboration to figure out how to harness it effectively. This conversation offers valuable perspectives for anyone navigating the ocean intelligence and investment landscape. Key Topics:Unlocking Ocean Data's Potential: With a vast portion of the ocean still unexplored, leveraging comprehensive ocean data is key to advancing climate predictions, optimizing marine resource management, and enhancing global trade efficiencies. Technological Innovations Reshaping Data Collection: Technological advancements like low-cost sensors, autonomous vehicles, and satellite imaging are revolutionizing ocean data collection. These innovations are not only reducing costs but also increasing the accessibility of real-time data crucial for informed decision-making in marine environments. Growing Demand for Different Types of Data: Increasing interest in technologies such as marine carbon dioxide removal, biodiversity monitoring, and blue biotechnology is driving the demand for different kinds of ocean data. Breaking Down Data Silos: From tax credits to data buys and awarding bids to projects that incorporate data sharing, the discussion explores the opportunities to incentivize and foster data sharing among private entitiesData Integration Challenges and Solutions: The conversation covers the complexities surrounding the integration of diverse data types, from physical samples to electronic measurements. Initiatives like Hub Ocean aim to standardize and aggregate varied data sources, enabling easier access and utilization for scientific and commercial applications. Resources:Hub OceanOcean KindNOAA Ocean-Based Climate Resilience AcceleratorThis 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 we are sharing a panel from the S2G summit moderated by Kate Danaher, Oceans Managing Director at S2G. Jason Giffen from the Port of San Diego, Ingrid Irigoyen from the Aspen Institute, and David Millar of Fugro discuss the current efforts underway to decarbonize the industry and what it will ultimately take to get us there. Solutions discussed range from green methanol to electrification and innovative business models. The panelists also share their perspectives on current and future decarbonization drivers, from regulations to corporate responsibility, market demand, and first-mover action. It’s a fascinating conversation about how collaborative endeavors and visionary solutions are working to decarbonize an extremely complex and behind-the-scenes industry. Key Topics:The Importance of Maritime Decarbonization: Responsible for three percent of greenhouse gas emissions, the maritime industry has a major role to play in the global decarbonization effort. Regulatory Evolution and Market Response: The maritime industry faces dual pressures from evolving regulatory standards and market dynamics, propelling a shift towards decarbonization.Innovative Business Models Driving Transformation: Innovative business models like the Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance are fostering market demand for zero-emission shipping which will enable the rest of the supply chain to transition confidently.Near and Longer-Term Innovation: While e-fuels are highly anticipated, they will take time to scale. Other green fuel choices, such as methanol, and other types of technologies, such as port electrification, can provide more immediate decarbonization solutions. Collaboration for Collective Impact: The intricate nature of maritime decarbonization necessitates a collaborative ecosystem involving diverse stakeholders—from ship owners to regulators and local communities. Effective community engagement is necessary to propel the adoption of technologies and encourage infrastructural shifts.Resources:Port of San DiegoFugroZero Emission Maritime Buyers AllianceThis 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, Chuck Templeton sits down with Jason Wellcome and Mike Bruno, advisors at Play Bigger, to discuss the methodology behind category design. The discussion unpacks how companies can shift their thinking from making better products to forging entirely new market categories, drawing on illustrative examples like Qualtrics' evolution from survey tools to an experience management platform. Jason and Mike delve into the strategies that enable businesses to identify unique problems, achieve "Category King" status, and ultimately drive unprecedented growth and market leadership. This episode offers valuable perspectives for investors and entrepreneurs keen on leveraging category design to secure a competitive edge.Key Topics:Problem Identification: The Play Bigger team emphasizes the importance of pinpointing unique, high-impact problems that consumers often overlook. This critical step lays the foundation for creating a new market category, setting leaders apart from competitors focused merely on iterative improvements.Creating a Category Blueprint: Establishing a new category necessitates a detailed blueprint that ensures both customers and competitors grasp the full scope and transformative potential of the new category, fostering wider market adoption.The Advantages  of Category Leadership: Leading a new market category offers substantial economic benefits, with "Category Kings" capturing up to 76% of the category's total value. Inventing a Taxonomy: Effective category design involves crafting a distinct language and taxonomy. This effort not only differentiates the new category but also educates the market. Iterative Validation and Organizational Alignment: The journey of category design is iterative, requiring ongoing validation and alignment within the organization. By engaging leadership and synchronizing efforts across all departments, companies can ensure cohesive execution and maximize their chances of achieving market success.Resources:Play Bigger 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.

Former Chief Growth Officer at Publicis Groupe, Rishad Tobaccowala, discusses the future of work, emphasizing shifts in work motivators, trends shaping work environments, and strategies for cultivating a culture of change and innovation. He highlights the importance of adapting to evolving work landscapes and leveraging advancements in AI to ensure company competitiveness.

In this episode, Chuck Templeton is joined by Nikhil Arora and Alejandro Velez, co-founders of Back to the Roots, a company that's redefining what it means to be a home gardener. Starting from an unconventional college experiment using coffee grounds to grow mushrooms, their venture has grown into the only end-to-end organic gardening brand, helping to ignite a new generation of sustainability-minded gardeners who are looking for a more rooted relationship with their food.  The duo discusses the significance of deep customer understanding, the art of pivoting in response to challenges, and the non-negotiable commitment to sustainability and transparency that has defined their brand. This discussion offers a realistic look at building a mission-driven business, the challenges encountered, and the perseverance required to stay true to one's values in the competitive retail landscape.Key Topics:Sustainable Innovation as a Market Differentiator: Back to the Roots exemplifies how sustainability can be a viable market strategy that resonates deeply with consumers. Their commitment to peat-free soil and packaging from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic not only sets new industry standards but also appeals to a new generation of gardeners, showcasing the potential for similar innovation-driven growth across various sectors.Compounding Relationships Fuel Growth: The episode highlights how the strategic nurturing of relationships—with suppliers, retailers, and team members—can serve as a catalyst for rapid growth and market penetration.The Power of Simplified Consumer Offerings: By focusing on simplicity in their product line, Back to the Roots has successfully created an end-to-end gardening solution that removes barriers to entry for new gardeners. This lesson in product development stresses the value of consumer-centric design and simplification in fostering user engagement and loyalty.Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges with a Strong Foundational Partnership: The enduring co-founder relationship at the heart of Back to the Roots provides a blueprint for entrepreneurial resilience. A shared vision and complementary skill sets are critical when facing challenges, making strategic pivots, and achieving sustained profitability.Aligning Business Goals with Broader Missions: Staying true to their North Star has enabled Back to the Roots to weather challenges and continuously adapt to get to where they are today. A clear and compelling mission can guide decision-making, inspire innovation, and attract like-minded customers and partners.Resources: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.

Sanjeev Krishnan, co-founder of S2G Ventures, discusses the power of industry specialization, innovative business models, and the importance of systems thinking in investing. He shares his experiences in energy, environmental sectors, and the journey of S2G Ventures in transforming industries through partnerships and tailored capital systems.

Andrey Zarur, CEO of GreenLight Biosciences, discusses the journey of creating novel RNA crop protection products and the importance of identifying genuine problems, understanding customer needs, and navigating regulatory landscapes. The podcast explores GreenLight's origin story, innovative problem-solving approaches, agricultural solutions, leadership challenges, and future plans for global expansion.

Not many people produce category-defining companies twice. But then again, not many people are John Foraker. The comforting taste of Annie’s mac and cheese or their cheddar bunnies masks their revolutionary origins when organic products were relegated to the back corners of grocery stores. As the former longtime leader of Annies, John is partially to thank for bringing natural foods to the fore. Today, as the CEO of Once Upon a Farm, he is changing how customers buy baby and kid foods while meeting the growing demand for nutrient-filled, responsibly sourced, delicious products. This episode is as full of insights into starting a mission-driven CPG company as a Once Upon a Farm Smart Blend is with organic fruits and veggies. Key Takeaways:The Power of Brand Positioning: Under John’s leadership, both Annie’s and Once Upon a Farm have successfully positioned their brands in the mainstream market, proving that natural and healthy food brands can thrive among conventional competitors. Understanding the Consumer: With both companies, John was able to recognize the momentum moving toward more natural nutritious foods. A critical pivot moment for Once Upon a Farm occurred when they did more digging into their core customer. Building a Strong Brand Identity: John's strategy emphasizes the importance of a strong mission-driven brand identity that resonates with consumers' values and justifies different price points or purchasing behaviors. Sustainable scaling: John shares his thinking on balancing growth in product line and distribution with the need to hone your core offerings.Working with Celebrity Cofounders: Jennifer Garner is one of the co-founders of Once Upon a Farm and John speaks about how she has been foundational to the company’s ethos and success. Leading with transparency and humility: John explains why he sends out an email every week recapping the company’s successes and challenges and how he ensures he is not the smartest person in the room. Resources:John's LinkedInRamping Your BrandConsumer research on unplanned purchasesThis 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.