Nukes of hazard: US-Russia arms treaty expires

The episode covers the end of the New START treaty and the implications for a new nuclear arms race involving the US, Russia, and China. It highlights China's growing nuclear arsenal, driven by concerns over American strike capabilities and a desire for major power status. Military planners consider strategies like "damage limitation," which ironically fuels further arms increases. The discussion extends to the potential for nuclear proliferation among smaller nations, fearing the unreliability of America's extended deterrence. Additionally, the episode explores the rise of online cults, noting a surge in their numbers and the challenges of defining and prosecuting them due to strong protections for freedom of belief in some countries. Finally, the podcast examines the anxiety around men's hair loss, particularly in the context of online dating, and the societal pressures that drive interest in cosmetic procedures.