Dive into the rising world of alternative substances, as a listener grapples with the unexpected changes brought on by Kratom. The discussion navigates the complex landscape of addiction, societal stigma, and evolving drug culture. With insights into Kratom’s dual nature, regulatory challenges, and the heated debates surrounding its use, the podcast uncovers personal testimonies alongside broader societal implications. It also explores the potential dangers of substances like Tienepdine and Zaza, revealing the intricate balance between relief and dependency.

Mark Blythe, a political economist, demystifies the often-confusing topic of inflation and its significant implications for voters. He delves into the historical roots of inflation, discussing its complexities from the 1970s to today. Blythe critiques oversimplified economic narratives and analyzes how government spending and wage dynamics influence inflation. He highlights the impact of housing on economic discourse and the challenges of real wage increases. This insightful conversation encourages listeners to rethink what they know about inflation.

Alex Gibney, the director of the documentary Wise Guy, explores the behind-the-scenes journey of creating The Sopranos. He discusses the challenges artists face in an undervalued industry and reflects on the shifting landscape of documentary filmmaking. Gibney emphasizes the tension between artistic integrity and commercial pressures, sharing insights on the significance of genuine storytelling. The conversation also touches on the evolution of narrative in television, driven by the desire for meaningful artistic expression against a backdrop of industry constraints.

Annie Lowrey, a journalist at The Atlantic, explores the ethical dilemmas of animal consumption. She shares gripping true crime stories involving turkeys dropped from planes and the harsh realities of dairy farming. The conversation dives into the complexities of promoting veganism while addressing societal norms around meat. With a blend of humor and empathy, they discuss finding the 'least miserable' choices for animals and the crises faced by farmers in the industry. It's both thought-provoking and eye-opening!

Joseph Cox, a reporter and author of Dark Wire, dives into the notorious AN0M phone, which became the go-to device for criminals. He unpacks its rise through clever marketing to criminal syndicates and the extensive law enforcement operation, Operation Trojan Shield, aimed at dismantling encrypted networks. The episode highlights the complicated dynamics between tech developers and law enforcement, showcasing a bizarre twist where the FBI created a phone for criminals to expose them. It's a thrilling intersection of technology, crime, and law enforcement tactics!

Guest Ezra Klein, a prominent political commentator, shares his insights on navigating the chaotic landscape of the presidential election. He discusses the challenges of filtering out political noise and the importance of critical engagement rather than succumbing to overwhelming anxiety. Klein debates President Biden's viability as a nominee while exploring potential Democratic alternatives. He emphasizes the need for rational thinking amidst social media distractions and suggests strategies for maintaining sanity during this intense election cycle.

Coolio, the iconic rapper known for his hits in the '90s, shares a mind-bending tale of a chance encounter during a trip to Greenland. The conversation weaves through themes of climate change and its intersection with cryptocurrency, exploring the environmental ramifications of Bitcoin. Coolio reflects on breathtaking ice landscapes while discussing the urgency of addressing ecological issues. Their dialogue sparks thoughts on unusual alliances formed in the fight against climate challenges, blending personal stories with broader social narratives.

Explore the mystery behind a stolen digital ape image during the NFT craze and uncover the involvement of celebrities in the NFT market. Discover the evolution of NFTs in the art world, including Quentin Tarantino's NFT collection based on Pulp Fiction. Follow the drama of stolen NFTs, celebrity endorsements, and the hunt for Darkwing84's true identity. Learn about the decline in the crypto market and the integration of NFTs into art.

Explore the origins and impact of Bitcoin, from its mysterious creator to its evolution as a digital currency challenging traditional banking. Dive into diverse experiences in the world of cryptocurrency, including encounters with street preachers, celebrity endorsements, and lavish crypto parties. Witness the contrasting worlds of Bitcoiners and Ethereum enthusiasts at a conference, with aspirations for generational wealth and surreal encounters at a music festival.

The podcast explores a bidding war for the original US Constitution, including the rise of DAOs and people tokens in the crypto world. It delves into the emotional rollercoaster of winning and losing auctions, highlighting challenges and unexpected outcomes.