CLASSIC: What is Adrenochrome?
Jul 14, 2026 · 1h 10m
Summary
Hosts Matt, Noel, and Ben revisit their 2021 episode on adrenochrome, debunking the conspiracy theory that elites harvest it from tortured children for its supposed psychedelic and anti-aging effects. They trace the myth’s origins to literary fiction like *Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas* and early, flawed psychiatric studies, contrasting these narratives with the chemical’s actual, limited medical uses. The discussion highlights how misinformation spreads through social media and ties into broader disinformation campaigns like QAnon.
Topics discussed
Introduction and podcast sponsorships
The psychology of wealth and the allure of conspiracy
What is adrenochrome? Scientific origins and history
Adrenochrome in literature: Huxley, Burroughs, and fiction
The conspiracy theory: Elites, rituals, and harvesting children
QAnon, Pizzagate, and the spread of the myth online
Debunking the logistics: Extraction and missing persons stats
Real science: Parabiosis, young blood, and anti-aging research
Ethics of life extension and the reality of immortality
Outro, listener mail, and final sponsorships
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