In this deep dive of Modem Futura, Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard tackle the sensational claims surrounding the "de-extinction" of the dire wolf by Colossal Biosciences. Using the hype-heavy headlines as a jumping-off point, the hosts explore the real science behind resurrection biology, CRISPR gene editing, and the ethics of engineered evolution. From Jurassic Park references to cutting-edge synthetic biology, the episode unpacks what’s happening in labs today, what it means for biodiversity and conservation futures, and how the line between fact and science fiction is increasingly blurred. Along the way, they probe big questions about responsibility, scientific hubris, and the implications of designer organisms—including the very real future of custom-built pets and potentially, even humans. With wit, skepticism, and serious foresight, the episode challenges listeners to consider not just what we can create with biotech, but what we should create.

Links: 

• Colossal Biosciences [Company Website]
• Colossal Bioscience $10.2 Billion startup evaluation
• Colossal Announces World’s First De-Extinction: Birth of Dire Wolves
• Colossal CEO Ben Lamm says humanity has a ‘moral obligation’ to pursue de-extinction tech [Tech Crunch]
• A ‘De-extinction’ Company Wants to Bring Back the Dodo [bird] [Scientific American]
• Last male of his kind: The rhino that became a conservation icon [BBC]

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

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Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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