396. William Ledbetter on Hard Sci-Fi and the Future of AI Tech

Award-winning hard science fiction author and Volume 28 Contest winner William Ledbetter discusses his journey from the aerospace defense industry to becoming a celebrated storyteller. Ledbetter shares how his real-world work on aircraft and the International Space Station fueled his passion for space-based narratives, eventually leading to his Nebula Award-winning novelette The Long Fall Up and his gripping, AI-centric Level Five trilogy. The conversation explores the chilling, near-future realities of generative artificial intelligence, the intersection of human ego and technology, and the delicate process of blending factual science with creative fiction. Finally, Ledbetter shares his essential advice on patience, consistency, and building a professional routine to help aspiring writers survive the grueling publishing process. Learn more at www.williamledbetter.com/.