Once a Scientist

92. Ashlee Vance, tech reporter and filmmaker, on storytelling, science funding, and interviewing billionaires

Jul 23, 2025
Ashlee Vance is a notable tech and science reporter, filmmaker, and founder of Core Memory. He shares insights on the optimism of wealthy science supporters amidst changing funding landscapes and the implications of satellite congestion in orbit. The conversation dives into storytelling's emotional depth in tech journalism, the significance of effective science communication, and the challenges of interviewing complex figures. Vance also explores the transformative impacts of AI in science, including breakthroughs that promise to revolutionize pharmaceuticals.
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INSIGHT

Low Earth Orbit Crowd Risk

  • Ashlee Vance warns LEO satellite counts jumped from ~2,500 to ~15,000 in three years.
  • He expects numbers could reach hundreds of thousands and raise collision risks.
ANECDOTE

Six-Year Documentary Commitment

  • Ashlee Vance spent six years making Wild Wild Space to document the modern space race.
  • He aimed to provoke visceral reactions and show hidden technical drama.
INSIGHT

US And China Diverge Rapidly

  • Ashlee Vance observes the US and China are entering different acceleration timelines.
  • He expects intense competition and widespread consequences for global talent and innovation flows.
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