This podcast episode explores the upcoming launch of Runes, a fungible token protocol on Bitcoin. The hosts discuss the excitement and pre-hype surrounding the launch, compare it to previous projects, and highlight the development of a Runes ecosystem. They caution against overestimating the utility of Runes and warn of potential grifters who might try to exploit the launch of new Layer 2 solutions. The episode also delves into the concept of Runes as a fungible token protocol, discussing its functionality and limitations. It explores the properties and parameters of runes, the simplicity of the Runes system, and the impact of runes on Bitcoin's OP RETURN size limit. The podcast also addresses the issues with government-controlled fiat currency and emphasizes the potential of Bitcoin as an alternative. Overall, the episode touches on various aspects of Runes, from its technical implementation to its societal implications.