In Episode 80 of Rabbit Hole of Research, Joe, Nick, Georgia, and Mary welcome author B.L. Mostyn (Heroes of Another Age) to the Basement Studio to discuss the costs of magical systems.

We discuss the physics, biology, politics, and ecology behind magic systems, fantastical creatures, and the power structures that sustain them. We ask the questions worldbuilders sometimes skip: How does your magical system really work (is it consistent), how many Big Macs to make fire balls and shape shift, and who’s controlling access and should they?

Special Note: The episode is being released during a rough week in NWI and Chicagoland, and the show notes may be shorter than normal. On August 11th, tornadoes and a derecho tore through the area causing major damage. At the Basement Studio: two maple trees were ripped out of the ground in the front parkway, and the cottonwood’s canopy in the back garden was shredded (luckily everything missed the house) but we did lose power.

As of this episode's release, the power is still out: latest restoration estimates is between tomorrow and the end of August. The Rabbit Hole family is safe. We appreciate your check-ins, patience and your support, and will keep you updated. Stay safe, stay curious, and we love y'all!

Nick, Georgia, and Joe

Check out more from B.L. Mostyn:

website: blmostyn.com

newsletter signup: blmostyn.com/newsletter-signup

Heroes of Another Age — Amazon link: a.co/d/0323LFhh (paperback, audiobook & kindle)

Jim and Georgia's Touch of Noir 2027 Wall Calendar —

12 months of all-original art by Jim and Georgia; orders open now, with mailing expected in September

It’s Science for Weirdos

Want to support the show? Tell your friends. Follow us on social media, Discord, share the podcast, and let us know what topics you are excited about. Leave a Comment. And for email alerts sign-up for the Substack newsletter and never miss an episode, exciting updates or the bonus images we talk about on the episodes.

We discussed these questions on the episode and now want to Hear From You (leave a comment):

If you could have one magical power, what would it be, and what would you be willing to pay for it?

Hard magic or soft magic (Hard: systems with strict rules and consequences, or Soft: a little extra splash of Handwavium in your magic?

What’s your favorite magic system or creature?

Drop your thoughts in the comments. We read them all, and your ideas often shape future episodes.

Future Episodes

Episode 82: Climate Change and Data Centers

Guest: David Pincus, PhD

Episode 84: ET

Guest: Chris Guzman (@theboxinggloveartist)

Episode 86: Disability in Horror

Guest: Grace Daly (Bram Stoker nominee)

Future Events to Hang with the Crew:Podcast Cross-Appearances

Joe on GoIndieNow: 21grams with Joe Compton

RHR Crew on This Podcast Will Change Your Life with Ben Tanzer

Events & Conventions to hang with the Crew:

Events & Conventions:

Dragon Con - Atlanta, GA (September 3-7, 2026) - Joe attending as Professional

Joe will be reading on Zoom: Words // Friends Aug 26th @7pm CST / 8pm EST

Register for free zoom link here: http://tinyurl.com/wordsfriendsummer

For more stuff (Images, Episode Highlights, Notes and Fun Facts, events, etc), subscribe to our Substack newsletter!

Join Rabbit Hole of Research on Discord: https://discord.gg/2nnmKgguFV

Don’t forget to give us 5 stars or a like!

Get full access to The Rabbit Hole of Research at jothamaustin.substack.com/subscribe