In this mini episode of Episode 28, the Rabbit Hole Research crew continues their discussion about nanomachines. Including recent applications in medical devices that highlight the intersection of science fiction and real scientific advancements, referencing nanites in pop culture, such as the DC universe and Twilight Zone radio dramas. The episode marks the one-year anniversary and teases upcoming discussions on nanotechnology and speedsters. Finally, 'Captain America: Brave New World' is releasing on Valentine's Day.

Art by Laina Joy see more at https://lainajoyart.com

Mini-Shownotes:

Cool Stuff Mentioned in the Mini

“A Soft Multimodal Optoelectronic Array Interface for Multiparametric Mapping of Heart Function in Vivo,” published February 7 in the academic journal Science Advances

Scene where the Green Arrow fired an arrow filled with nanites (developed by Ray Palmer) into the Reverse Flash.

Scene from Legends of Tomorrow (a deleted scene) that involved nanites.

Twilight Zone the Podcast: Nanobot episode

Halomonas titanicae lives inside icicle-like growths of rust, called "rusticles." These bacteria eat iron in the ship's hull and they will eventually consume the entire ship

Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share with Friends and Rate the show!

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

Art by Laina Joy see more at https://lainajoyart.com

In this episode of the Rabbit Hole of Research, Joe and Nick delve into the fascinating subject of nanites. Without Georgia, they discuss the definition and scale of nanites or nanomachines, highlighting their microscopic size, typically less than a nanometer, and their potential uses in science fiction and real-world applications. They explore nanites' characteristics, such as autonomy, materials, and functionalities, from repairing tissues and delivering drugs to potential surveillance and weaponization. The conversation touches on historical references, including science fiction books and movies, and current scientific advancements in nanotechnology. They also address practical limitations, such as power sources and safety concerns, while humorously considering the possibility of future applications like fending off zombie infections.

Alex from YouTube requested this topic, and we’re excited to explore it with you. And yes, there will be a bit of Marvel talk!

Art by Laina Joy at https://lainajoyart.com

Question to start you digging your own holes as you listen:

1. If you could design a nanite-based invention, what would it be and why?

2. Do you think the concept of nanites could ever be used to prevent or cure “zombie infections” as joked about in the episode?

3. What are your thoughts on the possibility of using nanites to extend human life or improve physical abilities?

4. Should there be stricter global regulations for nanotechnology development and deployment?

5. What topic would you like to see us cover?

To get more insight and see how deep the rabbit hole goes, check out the (timestamped) expanded show notes.

Join Rabbit Hole of Research on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

Subscribe and Share our Substack newsletter to get email updates, never miss an episode, and spread the word!! Don’t forget to give us 5 stars or a like!

In this mini episode of Episode 27, hosts Joe, Georgia, and Nick revisit the themes of utopia and dystopia. They discuss how current events, such as the fires in Los Angeles, eerily mirror scenarios from Octavia Butler's novel, 'Parable of the Sower'. The conversation also touches on various forms of media, including movies, books, and music, that depict utopian and dystopian themes, like Michael Jackson's rework of 'A Horse with No Name', and the series 'Battlestar Galactica'. They contemplate the philosophy of 'meliorism', the belief that the world can improve through human effort, and provide recommendations on related media such as 'Cherry 2000' and the video game 'Bioshock'. The episode closes with a lighthearted take on a new rating system inspired by the topics discussed.

Mini-Shownotes:

Things mentioned in the Episode to check out:

The Secrets of Peace by TA Hernandez

Arcane

Battlestar Galactica (2005 series)

MJ’s song “Place With No Name” released on his posthumous album "Xscape".

"Horse with No Name" 1972 by the band America

Meliorism- the belief that the world can be made better by human effort.

George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, is credited with popularizing the term "meliorism". In 1877—

Max Roser, a modern thinker, created three contradictory statements that seem like they can’t all be true

The world is much better.

The world is awful.

The world can be much better.

Cherry 2000 (1987) science fiction movie

Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share with Friends and Rate the show!

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

artwork by Georgia Geis @atomic_number14

In this episode, hosts Joe, Nick, Georgia, and special guest Tina engage in a lively discussion examining the concepts of utopia and dystopia through the lenses of fiction and real-world implications. They explore various definitions and examples, such as 'The Giver,' '1984,' and 'Gattaca,' while enjoying their favorite beverages. The conversation delves into the philosophical and ethical considerations of creating a perfect society, the roles of technology and control, and whether a true utopia is attainable. Through references to literature, movies, and personal insights, the group navigates the complexities of these contrasting societal ideals.

Question to start you digging your own holes as you listen:

1. If you had to design a utopia, but with one guaranteed flaw (a subversive twist), what would it be and why? How would that flaw shape the society

2. Imagine you’re living in a society where everyone’s happiness is guaranteed but at the cost of free will. Would you stay or rebel? Why?

3. In Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, the president’s name is Christopher Donner. Do you think dystopian fiction often predicts political realities, or is it just reflecting fears of its time?

4. If you could bring one element from a utopian society (like perfect health or no scarcity) into our world today, what would you choose and why?

5. Do you think art, music, and creativity can thrive in a utopia, or does it require struggle and imperfection to exist?

Leave a comment

To get more insight and see how deep the rabbit hole goes, check out the (timestamped) expanded show notes.

Join Rabbit Hole of Research on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

Subscribe and Share our Substack newsletter to get email updates, never miss an episode, and spread the word!! Don’t forget to give us 5 stars or a like!

In this mini-episode of 'Rabbit Hole of Research,' Joe, Georgia, and Nick dive back into the simulation hypothesis (Episode 26). The discussion includes a clarification of a reference to the 'St. Elsewhere' finale, analysis of the 'Lemon Girl' video as potential evidence of a simulation glitch, and reader comments on the complexity of the natural world as an argument against the simulation hypothesis. They also touch on the double-slit experiment, Schrodinger's cat, and the debut of the TGL simulated golf season. Other topics include recommended books and a brief discussion of movies related to simulations.

Note: Both Nick and Georgia were recovering from a cold—so their voices are a little scratchy.Mini-Shownotes:

Books we are reading

Nick:

The Quiet Room (Rabbits #2) by Terry Miles

We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer

Georgia:

Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty

Joe:

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson

Things mentioned in the Episode to check out:

Movie: Vivarium (2019)

Movie: Transcendence (2014)

TV show: St. Elsewhere (1982-1988)

YouTube Video:Lemon girl video

TGL golf season—simulated golf league

Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share with Friends and Rate the show!

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

artwork by Georgia Geis @atomic_number14

In the first episode of season two, hosts Joe, Georgia, and Nick, along with guest Wes, dive deep into the simulation hypothesis. They discuss definitions of simulation reality, nested realities, and stage realities, using examples from pop culture such as The Matrix, Westworld, Ready Player One, Free Guy, and The Sims. The conversation also touches on the Double Slit Experiment, AI simulation apps, and the Mandela Effect. This episode raises intriguing questions about the nature of our reality and whether we might be living in a sophisticated simulation.

Question to start you digging your own holes as you listen:

1. If we discovered tomorrow that we’re living in a simulation, how would it change the way you live your life?

2. If we are in a simulation, does free will still exist, or is it an illusion?

3. Do you think advanced civilizations would create ancestor simulations for research, entertainment, or another purpose entirely?

4. If we created simulations populated by sentient beings, would we have a moral obligation to them? How does this relate to artificial intelligence ethics today?

5. Could the rise of VR, AR, and AI be steps toward humans becoming creators of simulations, repeating the cycle of nested realities?

To get more insight and see how deep the rabbit hole goes, check out the (timestamped) expanded show notes.

Join Rabbit Hole of Research on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

Subscribe and Share our Substack newsletter to get email updates, see photos of the crew, never miss an episode, and spread the word!!

Artwork by Georgia Geis see more on Instagram at atomic_number14

Don’t forget to give us 5 stars or a like! Leave 5 stars!

In this New Year's Eve special from the basement studio, we extend our wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2025. We preview exciting future podcast episodes including discussions on the simulation hypothesis, dystopias and utopias, and a special feature on Dr. Who with a guest expert. We reflect on some of our recent reads like 'Don't Whistle at Night' and 'Mexican Gothic,' and touch on horror and Gothic genres. We also chat about our holiday movie experiences, including 'Nosferatu' and 'Better Watch Out.' We express gratitude to our dedicated listeners and supporters, with a special shout-out to notable fans. Wishing everyone a wonderful New Year and looking forward to many more great podcasts together.

Season 1 Episodes (1-25) summary:

Take Me Down to Electric Avenue

Release Date: February 6, 2024

Exploration of electricity’s role in science fiction and its real-world scientific principles.

We Talking About AI

Release Date: February 6, 2024

Discussion on artificial intelligence, its portrayal in media, and the state of AI technology today.

Villains Ain’t That Bad!

Release Date: February 20, 2024

Analysis of villain archetypes in fiction and the psychological motivations behind them.

Giant Animals

Release Date: March 5, 2024

Examination of gigantism in animals, both real and fictional, with ties to evolutionary biology.

What’s in Those Genes? Mutants We Love

Release Date: March 19, 2024

Discussion on genetic mutations, how they are depicted in media, and their real-world science.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Zombies

Release Date: April 2, 2024

A deep dive into zombie lore, its cultural significance, and the science of viruses and reanimation.

7. All About the Science of Lighthouses

Release Date: April 16, 2024

Exploration of the technology and history of lighthouses and their role in maritime safety.

Teleportation: Coming Soon to a Multidimensional Universe Near You

Release Date: April 30, 2024

Discussion of teleportation in fiction, quantum mechanics, and its theoretical feasibility.

Sleep Studies and Dreams

Release Date: May 14, 2024

Examination of sleep science, the function of dreams, and their portrayal in pop culture.

Time Travel is Weird!

Release Date: May 28, 2024

Exploration of time travel theories, paradoxes, and how they are represented in fiction.

Cloning

Release Date: June 11, 2024

Discussion on cloning technology, its ethical implications, and depictions in media.

Eye-Popping Superpowers: Movies, Comics, and Real Science

Release Date: June 25, 2024

Analysis of superhuman abilities in fiction and whether they can be realized scientifically.

Blockbusters and Frozen Landscapes: Climate Change Through the Lens of Pop Culture

Release Date: July 10, 2024

Exploration of climate change themes in movies and literature, and their real-world relevance.

Exploring Regeneration: From Wolverine to Real Science

Release Date: July 24, 2024

Discussion of regenerative medicine inspired by fictional characters and its scientific progress.

Apocalypse Wow!

Release Date: August 6, 2024

Analysis of various apocalyptic scenarios in fiction, including zombies, meteors, and viruses.

Exploring Alien Invasions

Release Date: August 20, 2024

Discussion on alien invasion narratives, their cultural impact, and scientific theories.

Brainwaves and Superpowers: Can Humans Move Objects with Their Minds?

Release Date: September 3, 2024

Examination of telekinesis in fiction and the neuroscience behind mind-matter interactions.

Cybernetic Futures

Release Date: September 17, 2024

Exploration of cybernetic enhancements, their technological feasibility, and ethical dilemmas.

Exploring the Science and Myth of Werewolves

Release Date: October 1, 2024

Analysis of werewolf legends and the science of human-animal transformations.

Exploring the Science of Possessions

Release Date: October 15, 2024

Discussion on supernatural possession in horror media and possible psychological explanations.

Vampires Suck or Do They?

Release Date: October 31, 2024

Exploration of vampire mythology, its evolution, and its depiction in pop culture.

Exploring the Multiverse

Release Date: November 13, 2024

Discussion on multiverse theories and their representation in media and quantum physics.

The Science and Handwavium of Shrinking

Release Date: November 27, 2024

Exploration of shrinking in real life and fiction, including its challenges and scientific principles, with references to films like Ant-Man and literature like Alice in Wonderland.

Exploring Awesome Superpowers: Which Is the Best Power?

Release Date: December 11, 2024

Discussion on superhuman abilities, their ethical implications, and their feasibility in reality.

Season 1 Finale Fun

Release Date: December 25, 2024

A celebratory recap of Season 1, reflecting on favorite episodes, moments, and plans for Season 2.

Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share with Friends and Rate the show!

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

artwork by Georgia Geis @atomic_number14

In the 25th and final episode of the first season of 'Rabbit Hole of Research,' hosts Joe, Nick, and their rowdy audience celebrate their journey. The unscripted recap covers highlights from the past year, favorite episodes such as 'Apocalypse Wow!' and 'The Lighthouse Episode,' and favorite drinks. On this episode they try the 'Scottish Beithir Fire,' a potent 75% beer. The hosts discuss the show’s evolution, including improvements in equipment, guest appearances, and future plans for season two. They reflect on their beginnings, their favorite moments, and speculate about exciting topics and episodes for the next season, including plant intelligence, simulation theory, and more. They also hint at more zines, videos, and potential new podcast branches.

Join the fun and leave a comment about Season 1:

What was your Favorite episode?

Who was your Favorite guest?

What was your Favorite drink?

To see how deep the rabbit hole goes, and the awesome list of superhero movies, comics, and TV shows mentioned in the episode check out the (timestamped) expanded show notes.

Join Rabbit Hole of Research on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

Subscribe and Share our Substack newsletter to get email updates, see photos of the crew, never miss an episode, and spread the word!!

Artwork by Georgia Geis see more on Instagram at atomic_number14

Don’t forget to give us 5 stars or a like! Leave 5 stars!

In this mini Episode 24.1, the B side, Joe, Nick, and Georgia recap their experience at the Midwest Lit Fest hosted at Thornton's Distillery. Superpower-themed discussions continue with guest observations on desired abilities, ranging from flight and teleportation to unique and humorous choices like extreme flatuence. The episode also features various authors and vendors introducing their works, including books and tabletop role-playing games. Listener questions about cyborg superpowers and future podcast episodes are addressed, and there's a deep dive into Poison Ivy's origin stories from DC Comics.

Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share with Friends and Rate the show!

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

artwork by Georgia Geis @atomic_number14

And you know, a RHR episode wouldn’t be complete without show notes (footnotes): that’s right, like the main event, the mini episode, also has show notes. Curated with time stamps, you’ll find exposition and links to help you explore topics on your own. Have fun!

Episode 24.1-the b-side footnotes

In this episode of the Rabbit Hole of Research, hosts Joe, Nick, and Georgia are joined by guest Bill Halliar, a storyboard artist and creature designer, in an engaging discussion about Superpowers—defining them, exploring their plausibility, and discussing their origins and implications in both fictional and real-world contexts. The conversation touches on characters from popular Marvel and DC comics, the caloric requirements of superpowers, and the ethical and environmental impacts. They also dive into historical and cultural references to superhuman abilities, debating the usefulness and consequences of possessing such powers. The hosts and guest have lively digressions about various related topics, including Alan Moore's critiques, the practicality of certain powers, and whether fictional heroes could actually sustain their abilities. The episode concludes with each host choosing their desired superpower and a nod to the upcoming Season 2.

To see how deep the rabbit hole goes, and the awesome list of superhero movies, comics, and TV shows mentioned in the episode check out the (timestamped) expanded show notes.

Join Rabbit Hole of Research on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

Subscribe and Share our Substack newsletter to get email updates, see photos of the crew, never miss an episode, and spread the word!!

Artwork by Georgia Geis see more on Instagram at atomic_number14

Don’t forget to give us 5 stars or a like! Leave 5 stars!