Pirates Only

Storytelling on the New Frontier: How Deep Tech Startups Use Narrative, Branding, and Design to Raise Capital and Hire the Best

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In this episode of Pirates Only, we sit down with three expert storytellers shaping the narratives behind leading deep tech startups: Emily Gold (OPFOR Media), Federico Gardin (Sentinel Studios), and Thomas Kim (Asimov Collective). Together, they explore why storytelling isn’t just important, it’s critical for deep tech companies navigating complex sectors like defense technology, robotics, and frontier innovation.

Discover how immersive 3D animations make sophisticated defense systems understandable, how thoughtful brand design can translate hard tech into captivating stories, and how ghostwriting and narrative strategy turn deep tech founders into industry thought leaders. We also dive into the evolving role of AI in creative work, emphasizing the unmatched value of authentic human storytelling in raising capital, recruiting talent, and establishing market trust.

If you’re building in deep tech and want to transform your complex ideas into compelling narratives, this episode is your blueprint.


Featured Guests

  • Emily Gold - Founder, OPFOR Media

  • Federico Gardin - Founder, Sentinel Studios

  • Thomas Kin - Founder, Asimov Collective


    Episode Highlights

  • [01:16] Introduction to storytelling for deep tech startups

  • [02:08] How Sentinel Studios leverages 3D animations for complex defense technologies

  • [03:52] Asimov Collective’s approach to creating compelling brands for frontier tech

  • [06:29] OPFOR Media’s method for positioning founders as thought leaders

  • [09:54] Why narrative clarity directly impacts the success of defense startups and end users

  • [13:05] Balancing realistic visualizations and creative storytelling in sensitive sectors

  • [15:43] How leading brands like Anduril influence industry storytelling norms

  • [22:11] Designing impactful visuals when your technology isn’t market-ready yet

  • [36:07] Navigating the role of AI in authentic storytelling

    [57:09] Why authentic human voices still outperform AI-generated content


    • Links & Resources

  • OPFOR Media

  • Sentinel Studios

  • Asimov Collective

  • Episode webpage: blackflag.vc/episode/how-to-tell-a-story-about-the-future

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    Pirates OnlyBy Black Flag