This Machine Kills Patreon Preview – 422. Demon Valley
Sep 10, 2025
Dive into the intriguing world of a tech billionaire turned 'demon hunter' who criticizes Burning Man. Explore a humorous take on upcoming films like Avatar 3, blending pop culture with social commentary. The hosts reflect on the bizarre perceptions sparked during cultural festivals, mixing satire with insights on morality. They navigate through the psycho-political landscape of Silicon Valley, unraveling themes of deception and identity that resonate deeply in today's tech-driven society.
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Burning Man Framed As Spiritual Deception
- Nicole Shanahan publicly framed Burning Man as a vehicle for deception and spiritual distortion.
- The hosts treat the claim as extreme but acknowledge it landed on a recognizable critique.
Hosts Mock Imagined Conversion Moment
- Jathan and Edward mock Shanahan's stance while noting she may 'see the light' and truly believe people are demonic.
- Edward imagines her as a longtime burner who suddenly converts and condemns others.
Caricature Of A Sudden Burner Conversion
- Edward paints a vivid scene of Shanahan as a seasoned burner who suddenly denounces the festival after a psychedelic experience.
- He uses that caricature to explain why her claim feels performative and extreme.