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Ales & AI: Embedding Ourselves in the AI Conversation

Our first Meetup on Ales and AI Meetup on March 11 at Atlas Local in Greenville South Carolina

Some of the greatest ideas in history weren’t born in boardrooms. They weren’t meticulously planned in corporate innovation labs. Instead, they emerged from conversations, from the act of showing up, listening, engaging, and becoming part of a community. That’s the philosophy I shared in my TED Talkthe idea that real impact comes not from standing on the outside looking in, but by embedding yourself within the spaces where people are already thinking, working, and growing.

That’s exactly why Ales & AI was created.

Why Ales & AI?

When we first conceived of this gathering, the easy route would have been to call it AI & Ales—placing the technology first, making it the star of the show. But that wouldn’t have reflected our mission. Technology without humanity is nothing.

By putting “Ales” first, we’re signaling that this isn’t just another AI event. It’s not a seminar or a panel. It’s a gathering of minds. A place where people—whether they are seasoned AI developers, business leaders curious about integrating AI, or complete beginners wondering, “What does this mean for me?”—can sit down together and talk. The human element comes first, because AI should be built, discussed, and integrated in ways that serve people, not the other way around.

What Happens at Ales & AI?

Our first gathering at Atlas Local was proof of concept. It wasn’t just an event; it was the start of a movement. We saw a range of perspectives come together, from AI coders and data scientists to entrepreneurs and creatives, all bringing their own questions, insights, and challenges to the table.

Some key themes that emerged included:

  • AI’s Rapid Evolution – How tools like GROK AI and LLMs are changing industries at breakneck speed.
  • The Shift in Digital Marketing – Why traditional SEO is fading, and AI-driven browsing and video content are becoming dominant.
  • Collaboration & Learning – The need for a common space to share AI insights, resources, and challenges beyond our in-person meetups.

That’s why we launched the Ales & AI Slack Channel, a hub where this learning can continue beyond the pint glass and into everyday application. If you haven’t joined yet, you can find it here Beer and Napkins Slack Group

The Bigger Picture

The true value of Ales & AI isn’t just about learning AI—it’s about embedding AI into our lives and work in ways that are meaningful, responsible, and innovative. It’s about creating a space where AI isn’t intimidating, but accessible—where conversations spark ideas, where curiosity is welcomed, and where knowledge is freely shared.

This is just the beginning. Ales & AI is about community first, technology second. And by embedding ourselves in this evolving landscape together, we’ll create something that is not only useful but transformative.

Our next session is coming up on April 22 at 6:30 PM at Atlas Local—if you’re interested in being part of this conversation, we invite you to join us. Bring your questions, your ideas, and your curiosity. And if you know someone who should be in the room, invite them too.

Because the best ideas start when people come together. And in Ales & AI, that’s exactly what we’re here to do.

See you there.

— Phil
Founder, Beer and Napkins | Communities of Design

Celebrating Culinary Creativity and Sobriety with Chad Gangwer

Chad sharing insights with our Meetup

We were so fortunate to kick off our 2025 Beer and Napkins Creator Sessions with a truly inspiring evening featuring Chad Gangwer, the creative force behind Greenville’s Southern Culture Kitchen & Bar and Grazeland Deli and Charcuterie Emporium!

Chad shared his journey in the restaurant business, honestly discussing both his failures and successes. His innovative approach to food and his commitment to crafting unforgettable experiences truly resonated with our community. But what made the evening even more powerful was Chad’s openness about his personal journey of sobriety and self-discovery.

In his recent blog post, “Trail Markers”, Chad reflects on the pivotal moments in life that guide us—those trail markers that point us toward growth, reinvention, and purpose. He shared how these markers have shaped his path, from building successful culinary ventures to embracing sobriety and reconnecting with the outdoors.Chad’s reflections remind us that trail markers often appear when we step out of our comfort zones. As he shared during our session:

“I went out of my comfort zone last night and spoke to a small gathering of folks I had just met 10 minutes before. We talked a little about sobriety and philosophy, and I shared some of my newfound love for life. This was good for my soul.”

Through his blog, Bearded Gang, Chad offers deeper insights into his journey—his thoughts on consistent food quality, his love for camping, and how he uses life’s trail markers to navigate challenges and opportunities. We encourage you to read his full post here for inspiration.

Thank you, Chad, for sharing your story and reminding us that creativity thrives when we embrace life’s signs and step boldly into new territory. Here’s to following your own trail markers—and finding inspiration along the way!

On Reflecting the Recent Passing of Addy Sulley: A Legacy of Community, Connection, and the “Third Place”

As I sit down to reflect on the recent passing of Addy Sulley, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the way he shaped our little corner of the world here in Greenville, SC. Addy wasn’t just a restauranteur; he was a builder of community. Through Addy’s Dutch Café and Hans & Franz Biergarten, he gave us more than just places to grab a bite—they were third places, those rare and vital spots where people could come together, unwind, and connect. For me, these spaces hold a special significance: it’s where I met my wife on our first date and where the idea for Beer and Napkins first took root. Addy’s legacy reminds me of what sociologist Ray Oldenburg once wrote in The Great Good Place: “Third places are the heart of a community’s social vitality and the grassroots of a democracy.”

I’ll never forget the warmth of Addy’s Dutch Café that night I met my wife. The soft glow of the lights, the hum of friendly chatter, and the cozy, unpretentious vibe made it feel like the perfect place for a beginning. It was the kind of spot where you could linger, where nobody rushed you out the door, and where you felt like you belonged. Years later, that same space became the launchpad for Beer and Napkins—an initiative born from the belief that great ideas often spark in casual, communal settings over a pint or a plate. Addy’s restaurants weren’t just buildings; they were the backdrop for life’s big moments, and I know I’m not the only one who feels that way.

So, what’s a third place, anyway? Oldenburg describes them as the essential hangouts beyond home (our first place) and work (our second place)—spots where we can relax, swap stories, and build relationships without pretense. Addy’s places nailed that concept. Whether you were sipping a beer at Hans & Franz or enjoying a quiet meal at the Dutch Café, you were part of something bigger. It didn’t matter if you were a regular or just passing through; Addy had a way of making everyone feel welcome. His restaurants weren’t about fancy decor or trendy menus—they were about the people who filled them, the laughter that echoed, and the sense of togetherness that lingered long after you left.

That spirit of connection is what inspired Beer and Napkins. Addy’s venues showed me that some of the best ideas don’t come from stiff boardrooms or rigid schedules—they come from the kind of easy, human interactions that happen in third places. Beer and Napkins took that lesson and ran with it, turning pubs and cafes into hubs for creativity and collaboration. In a way, Addy’s influence is woven into every meeting we’ve held, every napkin scribbled with a new idea. His spaces proved that when you bring people together in the right environment, good things happen—whether it’s a love story or a brainstorm session.

Now, as we say goodbye to Addy, it’s hard not to feel the weight of his absence. Greenville won’t be the same without him. But his legacy? That’s not going anywhere. Through the third places he created, Addy gave us more than just memories—he gave us a blueprint for community. He showed us how a simple café or biergarten could become a cornerstone, a place where friendships blossomed, ideas flourished, and people found a sense of home away from home. His passing leaves a hole, no doubt, but it also leaves behind a gift: the reminder that connection matters, and that the spaces we share can change lives.

Rest in peace, Addy. Your restaurants were more than just places—they were where we found each other, where we grew, and where we became better. Your spirit lives on in every conversation started and every bond forged within those walls. We’re all richer for it, and we’ll carry your legacy forward with every gathering we hold. Thank you for everything.

Beer & Napkins x Global Service Jam 2025 – A Weekend of Innovation

At Beer & Napkins, we believe that the best ideas don’t start in boardrooms—they start in community spaces, over conversations, and through hands-on collaboration. That’s why we are thrilled to co-host the Greenville Service Jam 2025, a 48-hour global innovation sprint where participants will brainstorm, prototype, and test real-world solutionsusing human-centered design.

This event aligns perfectly with our Napkins to Prototype (N2P) Initiative, which is all about taking raw ideas and turning them into tangible, actionable solutions through rapid experimentation, creativity, and collaboration.

What is the Global Service Jam?

The Global Service Jam is a worldwide event happening simultaneously in cities across the globe. Teams form around a secret theme and work through design thinking and rapid prototyping to develop innovative services and solutions.

Greenville last participated in 2013, and now we’re bringing it back with new energy and new ideas.

Why You Should Join

  • Work with a diverse group of innovators, designers, and entrepreneurs
  • Develop hands-on skills in service design, prototyping, and creative problem-solving
  • Engage with mentors, business leaders, and like-minded thinkers from across the community
  • Be part of a global movement where ideas turn into action

Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur, an aspiring designer, a student eager to learn, or simply someone who loves solving problems, this is your chance to create something impactful.

Event Details

📍 Location: Synergy Mill, Greenville, SC
📅 Dates: February 21-23, 2025
🔗 Register Now: Sign Up Here

At Beer & Napkins, we are committed to building a community of creative doers. Join us for this incredible experience and help shape the future of innovation in Greenville.

How to Get Involved

  • Register for the Jam and be part of this hands-on design challenge
  • Mentor emerging talent and share your expertise with the next generation of innovators
  • Sponsor or support the event to help make it an even bigger success

Spots are limited, so secure yours today. We can’t wait to jam with you!