In this episode, we sit down with our Managing Partner, Aaron Rudberg, to dig into his journey and the lessons that have shaped S2G’s growth. Aaron walks us through his path from venture associate to entrepreneur to limited partner to managing partner, and how those experiences influence the way he leads, builds culture, and approaches investing today. He discusses how purpose-driven investing has evolved over the last decade, what “at-the-seams” investing really looks like, and uses recent investments to illustrate how they align with S2G’s thesis. Aaron also shares what he’s hearing from investors around the globe and why he believes now is the time to scale proven solutions that deliver returns alongside environmental impact. Grounded and pragmatic, this conversation offers valuable insights into what it takes to build lasting organizations and invest with purpose.

Key takeaways:

1. Culture is a growth driver: Aaron shares how S2G’s expansion was built on cultural pillars of ambition combined with humility and collaboration.
2. Purpose-driven investing has matured: According to Aaron, what was once niche is now mainstream, with investors demanding both impact and returns.
3. The value of an “at-the-seams” approach: Through examples in regenerative agriculture and packaging solutions, Aaron illustrates how innovation and opportunity can emerge where sectors and asset classes intersect.
4. Global investors are resilient but expect returns: From meetings across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the U.S., Aaron has seen a consistent appetite for purpose-driven investing, but he notes that investors want proof of competitive returns.
5. Now is the time to scale proven solutions: Despite market turbulence, Aaron sees an immense opportunity to scale proven technologies that already deliver economic, social, and environmental value. He emphasizes that the best returns are often generated in challenging markets, when discipline and capital efficiency matter most.

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.