Jason Zhao, co-founder of the innovative Story Protocol, has decided to transition from his full-time role at the blockchain-based intellectual property project. Announcing his shift on social media, Zhao revealed his new venture, Poseidon, which seeks to harness artificial intelligence in fields as varied as biopharma and space exploration. He plans to remain strategically involved with Story Protocol, which he describes as the most transformative experience in his career.
Changing of the Guard
Zhao’s departure marks a significant shift in Story Protocol’s leadership dynamics. SY Lee will now fully assume the role of CEO, joined by Andrea as chief product officer and Sandeep as chief AI officer. These transitions come at a critical juncture for the company, which has been on an upward trajectory since its inception in 2021. With venture funding exceeding $130 million, including backing from the influential a16z, Story Protocol has carved a niche in making intellectual property “programmable,” allowing creators to register and monetize their content directly on the blockchain.
“Language generation is just the initial wave of a cascade of abundant intelligence across fields… that, if successful, will constitute a new Industrial Revolution,” Zhao stated in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. His words echo a broader sentiment across the tech industry, where AI’s potential is being explored with almost feverish enthusiasm. This enthusiasm is mirrored in the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT 5, which highlights the rapid advancements in AI technology.
A New Frontier for AI
Poseidon, Zhao’s new endeavor, aims to apply AI to frontier industries, signaling his belief in the transformative power of technology beyond mere automation. This pivot is not just a personal journey but also a reflection of the broader trends in the tech world, where AI is increasingly seen as a catalyst for revolutionary changes. The surge in interest is similar to what we see in the decentralized science space, as discussed in our analysis of BIO Token’s rise.
According to industry analyst Mia Chen, “Zhao’s move to Poseidon seems to be a strategic alignment with the growing importance of AI in solving complex problems across sectors. His experience at Story Protocol will likely provide a strong foundation for this new venture.”
Yet, Zhao’s departure from Story Protocol is not a complete severance. He will remain involved through partnerships and investments. This ensures that his vision will continue to influence the project, even as he embarks on this new path.
Market Response and Future Outlook
The market has responded positively to these developments. Story Protocol’s token, IP, is trading above $5.80, reflecting a 2% increase on the day. This uptick suggests investor confidence in the new leadership team and the project’s ongoing potential.
However, questions linger about how Story Protocol will maintain its momentum without Zhao at the helm. The project’s ambitious goal of revolutionizing intellectual property management on the blockchain has resonated with many, but the road ahead is fraught with challenges. Competitors are emerging, and the regulatory landscape remains uncertain.
As Zhao steps into the AI arena, the tech community will be watching closely. Will Poseidon succeed in its lofty ambitions? And can Story Protocol continue its growth trajectory under new leadership? Only time will tell.
In an industry that’s constantly evolving, Zhao’s journey from blockchain to AI reflects a broader narrative of innovation and adaptability. As both projects move forward, they carry with them the hopes of transforming their respective fields. For Zhao, it’s a leap into the unknown, but one that could very well reshape the landscape of technology as we know it.
Source
This article is based on: Story Protocol Co-Founder Jason Zhao Steps Back to Pursue New AI Venture
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Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
