42.1: The mini recap: Forced Leisure

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 PressRead HereJoe 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.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 Events:Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories – Book Release PartyAugust 27, 6:00 PM – Comfort Station Logan Square, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., ChicagoA 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 AnthologyDragon Con 2025 – August 28–September 1, Atlanta, GAJoe 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 EpisodesEP43: Animal Swarms (Sep 3) with science communicator Josh FisherEP44: H20MG – Lake Michigan, Life, and Everything in Between (Sep 17) with author and activist Maud LavinEP45–47: October Month of HorrorA 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! Get full access to The Rabbit Hole of Research at jothamaustin.substack.com/subscribe