How Story Inspires Science: A Conversation with Jason Carman of Story Company

At 829 Studios, we believe that powerful storytelling isn’t just about what’s told — it’s about how it’s told and why it matters. That’s why we were inspired by the work of Jason Carman and his team at Story Company, a media studio producing science and tech films designed to ignite curiosity and fuel innovation.

“Story inspires science. Science makes story real.” Story Company’s motto resonates with our belief in communications that shape industries. We recently sat down with Jason to explore how he’s changing the narrative around deep tech, what he’s learned from top founders, and why film might be one of the most overlooked tools for accelerating innovation.

What Makes Deep Tech Storytelling So Compelling?

According to Jason, many people view science and technology as inaccessible — something reserved for the elite few with perfect test scores. But real-world innovation, he argues, is about grit, resourcefulness, and vision. It’s not about being the smartest person in the room, it’s about daring to believe change is possible.

Story Company’s first feature film, New Space, is a testament to this philosophy. Highlighting pioneers in the space economy, it drew attention from everyone from Elon Musk to top VCs. With the support of early partners like 829 Studios, New Space was made available to audiences worldwide — sparking the kind of inspiration Jason hopes will become contagious.

Founders and Hype: A Surprising Insight

One recurring theme in Jason’s work is how many deep tech founders wish they had “hyped” their work more. Not in a hollow, exaggerated way, but in a way that helps people understand why what they’re building matters. “Telling your story in a big, meaningful way isn’t just about PR,” Jason says. “It’s about fundraising, recruiting, morale, and movement-building.”

He’s also found that many of the most ambitious founders aren’t just thinking about profit — they’re driven by the science fiction that once sparked their imaginations.

What’s Underhyped in Tech?

Jason sees huge potential in overlooked industries — from small manufacturing to community-first culture companies. In deep tech he believes we’re entering an age of “edge science,” where niche discoveries and frontier breakthroughs could have an outsized impact on society.

Lessons in Creative Risk

From camcorder shorts to full-scale documentary features, Jason’s biggest takeaway is this: “Make something you’d personally love, and others will too.” In a world of endless noise, taste and craft matter. The best way to develop those? Immerse yourself in great work.

What’s Next for Story Company?

Story Company is now shifting from founder spotlights to “frontier storytelling”, exploring broader themes like synthetic biology, energy abundance, and the next era of aviation. If your company is pioneering one of these narratives, Jason wants to hear from you.

As for what’s inspiring him right now? The Red Rising series — a fast-paced, wildly imaginative story that’s fueling his next creative chapter.