36.1: The mini recap: Exploring Loki

In this mini companion to Episode 36: Loki, Satire and Chaos, the Rabbit Hole of Research team offers a fast-paced recap of their conversation with author Kurt Baumeister, whose novel Twilight of the Gods reimagines Loki as a postmodern, ethically ambiguous figure. They revisit themes of mythology, chaos, and satire, explore AI as a digital trickster, and add new pop culture figures to their growing pantheon of modern Lokis—including Gwenpool, Jinx from Arcane, and Harley Quinn. The crew also field a listener question on where to start with Doctor Doom and share what they’re watching and reading—from The Rehearsal to Overgrowth by Mira Grant. Plus, they tease their Fantastic Four science series leading up to the MCU reboot. It’s a quick trip down a very chaotic mini-hole.It’s science, it’s fiction, it’s science for weirdos.And don’t forget to Pre-order: Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories Anthology featuring a new story by Joe!Want to support the show? Tell your friends. Follow us on social media, Discord, share the podcast, and let us know what topics you are excited about. And to see all the content (studio images and artwork) subscribe to the Rabbit Hole of Research newsletter!Stay curious, stay speculative, stay safe, and we’ll catch you in the next rabbit hole. Love Y'all!Future Episodes & Events:Fantastic Four Science Series (Episodes 37–40) – Leading up to the MCU Fantastic Four movie (releasing July 25, 2025):Ep. 37 (June 11): Sue Storm-Richards: Invisibility — with comic critic Nick UlanowskiEp. 38 (June 25): Ben Grimm “The Thing”: Strong Skin — featuring NYT bestselling author, Jonathan MaberryEp. 39 (July 9): Johnny Storm “The Human Torch”: Human Combustion — with Dr. David Pincus, returning guestEp. 40 (July 23): Reed Richards “Mr. Fantastic”: Stretching and Biophysics — with Dr. Maria Dowell, MD, Northwestern UniversityFor more episode stuff (images, show notes, links, and more science for weirdos) visit and subscribe to our Substack newsletter! Get full access to The Rabbit Hole of Research at jothamaustin.substack.com/subscribe