In mini episode 42.1 of Rabbit Hole of Research, the team is hanging out in the Basement Studio to unpack the themes and questions raised in Episode 42: Broken Futures with author Ben Tanzer. They revisit Ben’s novel Orphans, reflecting on dystopian visions, the psychological toll of modern life, and the blurred line between human and machine. Inspired by listener Alex’s comments, they explore cloning, forced leisure, and shifting generational perspectives on labor and identity.
The conversation expands into science fiction and cultural critiques—from AI replacing six-figure jobs to televised classrooms in Gary, Indiana. Pop culture cameos include Twilight Zone, The Stand, and Ed Emberley’s latest. Book recs and movie picks round out the episode, along with teasers for upcoming shows, events, and Joe’s Dragon Con schedule.
Also Check out: “Specific Knowledge: Transformation” at From Beyond Press
Joe explores how many calories it would take to transform into monsters across sci-fi and horror—think 222 Big Macs and tubs of Cherry Garcia.
It’s science for weirdos.
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Stay curious, stay speculative, stay safe, and we’ll catch you in the next rabbit hole. Love Y'all!
Future Events:
Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories – Book Release Party
August 27, 6:00 PM – Comfort Station Logan Square, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago
A celebration of the new anthology Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories, featuring live readings by over 10 authors, including Joe. The evening includes an all-Chicago DJ set by Plastic Crimewave, followed by an 8:00 PM screening of the German silent film Journey into the Night with a live score by Ira Glass (band).
Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/761531809703016/
Order: Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories Anthology
Dragon Con 2025 – August 28–September 1, Atlanta, GA
Joe appears as an Attending Professional with five events:
Aug 29, 10:00 AM – Did a Wizard Do It? The Physics of High Fantasy (L401-L403, Marriott)
Aug 29, 1:00 PM – Sinners: The Devil at the Door (Centennial I, Hyatt)
Aug 30, 11:30 AM - Fandom Fusion: Where Classroom Meets Imagination! (Hanover AB, Hyatt)
Aug 30, 1:00 PM – Reading Session: Jotham R. Austin, II (Marietta, Hyatt)
Aug 31, 7:00 PM – Pantsing or Plotting? (Embassy AB, Hyatt)
Sept 1, 10:00 AM – Enchanting Realms: Black Voices in Fantasy! (Hanover AB, Hyatt)
Upcoming Episodes
EP43: Animal Swarms (Sep 3) with science communicator Josh Fisher
EP44: H20MG – Lake Michigan, Life, and Everything in Between (Sep 17) with author and activist Maud Lavin
EP45–47: October Month of Horror
A trilogy of chilling episodes celebrating horror in literature, film, and culture. Expect field trips, spooky themes, and special guests.
For more episode stuff (images, show notes, links, and more science for weirdos) visit and subscribe to our Substack newsletter and never miss out on the extra fun!
