Scientists spoke up against a de-extinction company. Then the smears began.

Scientists spoke up against a de-extinction company. Then the smears began.

August 26, 2026 · 32 min

About this episode

The episode explores the backlash faced by scientists who challenge corporate claims about de-extinction.

When evolutionary biologist Vincent Lynch heard the news that a $10 billion biotech company had brought the once extinct dire wolf back to life, he called foul. He took to the media to argue that these overhyped headlines threatened public trust in science.  And that's when things started to get weird.  In a story that feels like it came right out of Jurassic Park, we look into the murky world of "dark PR" and discover what happens when the principle of scientific discourse challenges the power of corporate science. Featuring Howard Wolinsky, Vincent Lynch and Nic Rawlence Produced by Nate Hegyi. For full credits and transcript, visit outsideinradio.org. SUPPORT Outside/In is made possible with listener support. ⁠Click here⁠ to join our Patreon and get ad-free episodes of the podcast.  Follow Outside/In on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠, or join our private ⁠discussion group on Facebook⁠. ADDITIONAL MATERIALS You can read Howard’s entire investigation over at EMBO Reports.  Check out this example of one of the critical stories about Vincent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Nate Hegyi

Guest: Vincent Lynch

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NHPR, EMBO Reports, megaphone.fm

Products: dire wolf

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