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PODCAST

Rabbit Hole of Research

Jotham Austin, II PhD, Nick Elizalde, and Georgia Geis

Our goal is to have fun learning science through the lens of science fiction, fantasy, and pop-culture. We will start in one place and let the conversation lead us down the winding scenic road exploring the science in science fiction, separating the facts from the Handwavium. We’ll have a little fun and you’ll learn a few facts you can use to impress your friends at a party or use as a conversation starter to go down your own rabbit holes. jothamaustin.substack.com

science science fiction

All Episodes

37:31

28:Nanomachines: Handwavium or Future Reality?

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2025/02/05

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

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14:31

Exploring Utopias and Dystopias: Mini Episode 27.1

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2025/01/29

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

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65:31

27: Exploring Utopia and Dystopia: Fiction or Foresight?

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2025/01/22

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

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13:00

Exploring the Simulation Hypothesis: Mini Episode 26.1

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2025/01/15

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

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62:00

26: Are we living in a Computer Game? Exploring the...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2025/01/08

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

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7:01

Episode 25.1: Happy New Year 2025!

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2025/01/01

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

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33:01

Episode 25: Season 1 Finale Fun: Recap, Drinks,...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/12/25

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

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20:01

Episode 24.1: the b-side of Superpowers

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/12/18

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

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65:01

Episode 24: Exploring Awesome Superpowers: which is...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/12/11

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

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14:01

Episode 23.1: the b-side of Shrinking

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/12/04

IIn this mini-episode of Rabbit Hole of Research we dive back into the concept of shrinking. We touch on shows like Dragon Tales and discuss the enormous energy requirements for shrinking, equating them to trillions of Big Macs, or metric tons of plutonium. Additional discussions include the science behind Pym Particles, the cultural fascination with miniatures, theoretical energy sources like antimatter and zero-point energy, and the practicality of shrinking technology.Don’t forget to Subscribe,

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37:00

Episode 23: The Science and Handwavium of Shrinking

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/11/27

In this episode of the Rabbit Hole of Research, hosts Joe, Nick, and Georgia dig into the concept of shrinking in both real life and fiction. They explore the phenomenon of shrinkage due to cold, as seen in popular culture, and discuss fictional portrayals of shrinking in movies like Ant-Man, The Incredible Shrinking Woman, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. They examine the scientific plausibility of shrinking objects or people, referencing various scientific principles and fictional technologies

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16:00

Episode 22.1: the b-side of the Multiverse

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/11/20

In this mini-episode of Rabbit Hole of Research, Joe, Georgia, and Nick dive back into the topic of the multiverse, addressing feedback from their previous discussion. They clarify Marvel’s Spiders-Man comic and discuss Ken Page, the voice actor of Oogie Boogie in 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'. The team highlights recent recommendations and related content, including 'Two Distant Strangers', 'The Rehearsal', and 'Apocalypse Z'. They also explore philosophical and scientific questions about the

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77:00

Episode 22: Exploring the Multiverse: Theories, Pop...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/11/13

In this episode of the Rabbit Hole of Research, hosts Joe, Nick, Georgia, and guest Mary Schons, delve into the fascinating topic of the multiverse. The multiverse concept is examined through the lens of literature, film, and theoretical physics. The discussion covers key movies, books, and shows like 'Everything Everywhere All At Once,' 'Dark Matter,' 'Into the Spider-Verse,' and more. They also touch on historical multiverse narratives in mythology and religion and discuss how the multiverse

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12:31

Episode 21.1: the b-side of Vampires, Candy & Bruce...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/11/06

In this mini-episode of Rabbit Hole of Research, Joe, Nick, and Georgia revisit episode 21: Vampires, discussing their love for vampire folklore, and favorite horror-themed books and movies. Highlights include Halloween night recaps, a review of Jonathan Maberry's vampire literature, and discussions on scary movies' intriguing psychological effects. The trio also shares insights on their latest video game encounters and some fascinating film recommendations. Don’t forget to Subscribe, Share with

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6:31

Breaking News! Creepy Kids, Chaos, and Handwavium!

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/10/31

Happy Halloween from the Rabbit Hole of Research! Joe, Nick, and Georgia take a break from their normal science talk and perform a chaotic Halloween special, in the spirit of War of the Worlds, about trick-or-treating, eerie kids, and bizarre happenings during a live broadcast. This episode is 100 percent Handwavium and sponsored by Vsuck.com. Enjoy! And be safe out there.This was a one shot recording. Let us know what you think. Do you want more?Subscribe, Share, and join our Substack to get email

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56:00

Episode 21: Vampires Suck or Do They?

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/10/30

Happy Halloween! In the third October of Horror episode the Rabbit Hole Research crew joined by author Moe Shalabi dig into the history, science and symbolism of vampires. They discuss various types of vampires, their origins across cultures, and how vampirism can be scientifically explained. The conversation also touches on favorite vampire movies and books, the evolution of vampire stories, and their representation in modern media. And the group explores the possibility of living as a vampire. Can

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11:01

Episode 20.1 Revisiting Possessions, Spooky Laughs,...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/10/23

In this mini-episode of Rabbit Hole of Research, we reflect on our Possession episode, and a mysterious laugh we heard in the recording. We give a heartfelt shoutout to Melissa from Reads Local, updates on The Horror House's GoFundMe, and discuss various movies and books we've been enjoying. 80’s horror movies and the importance of locking doors. And, Joe was featured in The Scientist Magazine. Happy Halloween.Go visit our Friends at Reed’s Local:Reed’s Local EventsPlease go support our friends at

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74:00

Episode 20: Exploring the Science and Handwavium of...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/10/16

Note: At ~the 6 minute mark our recording was cut, even though we talked for 1 hour. My story is the Reed’s Local ghost interrupted our recording—you can hear a noice before the recording cuts! But Rabbit Hole of Research ain’t afraid of no ghosts and the show goes on! Enjoy!In the second October of Horror episode the Rabbit Hole Research dives into the spine-chilling realm of possessions and spirits, perfectly timed for Halloween. We take over Reed Local, with several guests. Reed’s Local co-owner

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19:31

Episode 19.1 the b-side of Werewolves, Werecars, and...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/10/09

In this mini episode of The Rabbit Hole Research podcast, hosts Joe, Nick, and Georgia explore various horror themes, including werewolves and a lesser-known 1984 cartoon, Turbo Teen, which featured a character transforming into a car—prompting discussions on 'werecars'. They discuss an unfortunate water leakage situation at the Horror House, leading to its temporary closure and a GoFundMe campaign for support. The hosts also delve into fun horror-related content, touching on movies like 'Werewolf

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52:10

Episode 19: Exploring the Science and Myth of...

Rabbit Hole of Research ·

2024/10/02

In this episode, the Rabbit Hole of Research goes on the road to the Horror House in Avondale Chicago, “The Hub of Horror”. Georgia, Nick and Joe, along with shop owners Moses and Vinny, explore the world of werewolves. They dig into werewolf folklore, history, the science of transformation, and popular werewolf movies and media. Get your pen and paper ready to take note of all the werewolf movies and books mentioned (don’t worry you can find them in the show notes). This is a good way to start off

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