Core Memory
Ashlee Vance
Core Memory is a podcast about science and technology hosted by best-selling author and filmmaker Ashlee Vance.
Vance has spent the past two decades chronicling advances in science and tech for publications like The Economist, The New York Times and Bloomberg Businessweek. Along with the stories, he's written best-selling books like Elon Musk’s biography, made an Emmy-nominated tech TV show watched by millions and produced films for HBO and Netflix. The goal has always been to bring the tales of complex technology and compelling people to the public and give them a path into exceptional and unusual worlds they would not normally have a chance to experience. www.corememory.com
Vance has spent the past two decades chronicling advances in science and tech for publications like The Economist, The New York Times and Bloomberg Businessweek. Along with the stories, he's written best-selling books like Elon Musk’s biography, made an Emmy-nominated tech TV show watched by millions and produced films for HBO and Netflix. The goal has always been to bring the tales of complex technology and compelling people to the public and give them a path into exceptional and unusual worlds they would not normally have a chance to experience. www.corememory.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 1h 16min
The Iranian Scientist Leading America’s Nuclear Rebirth
Kurt Terrani, an Iranian-born nuclear scientist and CEO of Standard Nuclear, teams up with Tommy Hendrix, a Green Beret and venture capitalist. They discuss revolutionary TRISO fuel technology, which enhances safety and powers small modular reactors. The duo shares their journey of rescuing this innovation from financial collapse and the potential it has for both commercial and military applications. They highlight the historical significance of nuclear advancements and the shift in public perception about nuclear energy's future.
33 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 2min
Priscilla Chan and Her Multi-Billion Dollar Quest to End Disease
Priscilla Chan, Co-CEO of the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, shares her inspiring journey from a refugee child to a pediatrician focused on curing diseases. She discusses the Initiative's ambitious goal of eradicating all diseases by the century's end and highlights breakthroughs in genetic disease treatment, including a toddler's story that sparked advances in CRISPR. Chan also delves into how AI is revolutionizing biology and the importance of innovative funding in science. Plus, she shares her unique take on balancing her tennis career with transformative healthcare work.
23 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 15min
Spaceplanes Are Upon Us
Stefan Powell, co-founder, CEO, and CTO of Dawn Aerospace, shares insights on revolutionizing space travel. His company recently set new records with the Mk-II Aurora, reaching Mach 1.1 and 20 km elevation, melding rocket technology with aircraft design. The conversation covers the future of spaceplanes, innovative satellite propulsion, and New Zealand's burgeoning aerospace scene. Powell also discusses contracts for flights from the Oklahoma Air and Space Port and hints at even larger craft that could redefine access to the edge of space.
44 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 18min
The Child Prodigy Teaching Other People How To Learn
Andrew Hsu, co-founder of Speak and a child prodigy, graduated from the University of Washington at just 16. He discusses his unconventional educational journey, highlighting the benefits of homeschooling and the unique pressures of early success. Hsu shares insights on the transformative role of AI in language learning, detailing his startup's growth and the challenges faced in adapting to different cultures. The conversation also reflects on effective learning strategies, productivity methods, and the importance of mentorship in navigating life's complexities.
14 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 1h 23min
Fixing American Science Funding
This week, Adam Marbleston and Anastasia Gamick, co-founders of Convergent Research, discuss innovative funding models for science. With backgrounds in cutting-edge organizations like Neuralink and Google DeepMind, they emphasize how Focused Research Organizations (FROs) can bridge the gap in American science funding. They champion the idea of investing in small teams tackling big questions, like neuroscience and biotechnologies, and introduce their 'gap map' to pinpoint urgent research needs. Their insights reveal a bold vision for advancing scientific innovation.
17 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 25min
The New Era of Consumer DNA Tests
Kian Sadeghi, founder and CEO of Nucleus and a Thiel Fellow, dives into the evolving world of consumer DNA testing. He discusses how Nucleus offers comprehensive genetic insights, unlike traditional tests. Sadeghi explains the innovative embryo selection process for IVF, which is gaining popularity. He also addresses the ethical implications of gene editing and the need for consumer empowerment in genetics. His bold claims and perspective on the industry spark intriguing debates, making for a thought-provoking conversation.
25 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 18min
An AI Engineer Is Here, and It Might Redesign the Physical World
Paul Eremenko, an AI engineer and founder of P-1 AI, talks about his fascinating journey from Ukraine to leading innovation in aerospace. He shares insights on his new AI, Archie, designed to assist in engineering today and revolutionize design for buildings, planes, and rockets in the future. The discussion covers challenges in aviation sustainability, the use of AI in engineering design, and the potential for AI to transform future industries. Plus, his dog Li makes a charming cameo, picking favorites!
39 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 1h 31min
The Future of Money
Zach Abrams, CEO of Bridge and fintech veteran, dives into the rapidly evolving world of money. He explains stablecoins as stable digital currencies pegged to the dollar, addressing their role in overcoming inefficiencies in traditional finance. The discussion includes the challenges and potential of integrating stablecoins in global payments, especially for B2B transactions. Abrams also reflects on the changing landscape shaped by AI and its implications for financial systems. Expect insights into resilience, innovation, and the future of money in a digital-first world.
61 snips
May 29, 2025 • 2h 4min
Exclusive: Palmer Luckey and Meta Make Peace to Make War Together
Palmer Luckey, founder of Anduril Industries and Oculus VR, dives into groundbreaking tech and personal anecdotes. He discusses the shocking collaboration between Anduril and Meta to create 'Eagle Eye,' a military helmet that integrates VR/AR for soldiers. Luckey reflects on his journey from gaming enthusiasm to military innovation, revealing how his vision blends nostalgia with modern defense. He also touches on the complexities of tech partnerships amid political tensions and offers insights into raising kids in today’s tech-driven world.
85 snips
May 22, 2025 • 1h 5min
Peter Beck on Rockets, Dinner with Elon and the Future of Space
Peter Beck, the self-taught founder and CEO of Rocket Lab, shares his incredible journey in the aerospace industry. He discusses the ambitious development of the Neutron rocket and the competitive landscape against giants like SpaceX. Beck reflects on navigating innovation in small towns and cultivating creativity amidst challenges. He also recounts a significant dinner with a key player in space exploration, highlighting the dynamics of the space industry. With community spirit at heart, he invites listeners to his upcoming Rocket Lab event.
