Stuff They Don't Want You To Know Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

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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