- Business
- Learn about future technological ambitions and how they might be framed by speculative fiction.
- Everyday users
- Explore ideas about the metaverse and climate solutions from a creative, forward-thinking perspective.
This is a solid interview with a notable author discussing future technology and societal challenges.
Neal Stephenson, Award-winning science fiction author
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From Subvolts
Summary and analysis by Subvolts editorial, AI-assisted.
Microsoft's Behind The Tech podcast features host Kevin Scott interviewing science fiction author Neal Stephenson. They discuss the metaverse, misinformation, and climate change solutions, including carbon capture, which Stephenson views as a monumental technological undertaking.
Science fiction writer Neal Stephenson talks with Microsoft's Kevin Scott about big ideas. They cover the metaverse, how to stop bad information online, and tackling climate change with new technologies like capturing carbon from the air.
This episode offers insights into how speculative fiction can shape technological thinking, particularly regarding future concepts like the metaverse and large-scale climate solutions. It's for listeners interested in the intersection of science fiction, technology, and societal challenges. While not directly about current AI models, Stephenson's forward-looking perspective on grand technological projects could inform discussions around the long-term impact and development of AI.
- HostKevin Scott
- GuestNeal StephensonAward-winning science fiction author
- Guest: Neal Stephenson, Award-winning science fiction author
- Show: Behind The Tech with Kevin Scott
- Length: 60 minutes
- Key Topic: Carbon capture as a major tech project
Meet one of Kevin's favorite sci-fi authors who influenced him as a kid growing up in rural Virginia. Kevin and this award-winning writer talk about metaverse and misinformation, as well as ways to combat climate change - including carbon capture, which Neal believes will be one of the biggest tech projects in human history.
Behind the Tech with Kevin Scott
Discover and listen to other Microsoft podcasts.
- metaverse
- Neal Stephenson
- a virtual world where people can interact
- carbon capture
- Neal Stephenson
- technology that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
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Questions people ask
- What topics will Kevin Scott and Neal Stephenson discuss?
- They will discuss the metaverse, misinformation, and ways to combat climate change, including carbon capture.
- What is Neal Stephenson's view on carbon capture?
- Stephenson believes carbon capture will be one of the biggest tech projects in human history.
Page generated Oct 19, 2026. Summaries are Subvolts' own; the audio, artwork and notes belong to Microsoft.

