Episode Details

Every generation has its miracle materials that turned out to be poison — asbestos, lead paint, radium tonics. What are WE getting wrong right now? This episode takes an uncomfortable look in the mirror, examining PFAS "forever chemicals," microplastics, and social media as the leading candidates for the asbestos of 2026. Drawing on behavioral economics, chemistry, and epidemiology, we explore why the very properties we celebrate in these technologies — indestructibility, durability, engagement — may be exactly what makes them dangerous. And we ask the hard question: what aren't we measuring that future generations will wish we had? Episode #618692 — open it directly at myweirdprompts.com/618692