Technology of The Culture | LOL 101

Technology of The Culture | LOL 101

Author: Lex Starwalker November 19, 2025 Duration: 45:43
Today we explore the technology of the Culture, especially its sentient AIs. We examine the reasons true AI might not be possible and decide whether those ideas seem likely to be true. We also look at how humanity will become a more complex and diverse species and civilization not only through our own genetic manipulation of our biology, but also by the inclusion of the AI lifeforms we create.

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes as a science fiction novel comes to life? Lex Out Loud: Writing Science Fiction pulls back the curtain, offering a raw, ongoing audio diary from author Lex Starwalker. Currently deep in the process of crafting a third novel, Lex invites you into the workshop to witness the triumphs, frustrations, and daily decisions that shape a work of speculative fiction. This isn't a polished lecture series; it's a companionable, real-time exploration of the craft. You'll hear Lex think through plot tangles, wrestle with character motivations, and dissect the balance between scientific plausibility and compelling narrative. The discussions naturally extend beyond just writing novels, touching on world-building applicable to game masters and the broader joys and challenges found within the genre. Each episode of this podcast feels like a conversation with a fellow creator, sharing hard-won insights as they are discovered. If you've ever been curious about how stories are built from the ground up, or if you're looking for a thoughtful companion for your own creative endeavors, this is a space where process is celebrated over product. Tune in to follow the journey, episode by episode, as the book-and the writer-evolve.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Lex Out Loud: Writing Science Fiction
Podcast Episodes
Story Sketch | LOL 090 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:35
This week I share a method I’ve come up with to help me write every day that I’m calling a story sketch. It’s also a great way to practice as a writer, experiment, and try out new techniques. I also talk a bit about how…
Writing vs. Storytelling | LOL 089 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:09
This week I discuss the differences between writing and storytelling. If you’re like me, you may have spent a lot of time and energy focusing on your writing while giving little thought to the art of telling a good story…
Character Flaws, Problems & Misbeliefs | LOL 088 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:30:12
This week I catch you up to what I’ve been doing writing-wise. I discuss protagonist flaws and problems. I also explore the limitations I’ve found in the misbelief concept. I think these limitations are overcome by reali…
Pathnotes from a Writing Conference | LOL 087 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:41
This week I share some of what I learned at a local writing conference I attended recently. I also share some decent writing craft books I’ve discovered that I’ll likely be talking some more about in future episodes.
Considering Independent Publishing | LOL 086 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:21:37
This week I share some of what I’ve learned about independent publishing compared to traditional publishing. I also give some of my thoughts on The Wheel of Time TV show thus far.
The Creative Process & My (Revised) Daily Writing Goal | LOL 084 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:41
I discuss what I’ve learned about how the creative process works in the human brain and how I’ve used this to revise and improve my daily writing goal. I also talk a bit about the nested cylinders of Union City and growi…
This Novel Isn't Working | LOL 083 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:07:52
This week I talk about why I’ve decided to put my space Odyssey idea on the backburner and return to writing a sequel to Critical Balance.
This Novel is Allowed to Suck | LOL 082 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:35
This week I explain why the novel I’m writing is allowed to suck. I also talk a bit about why it's best to focus on a genre & subgenre in the beginning of your writing career.