*PREVIEW* Play-Doh's Symposium feat. Brian Merchant

*PREVIEW* Play-Doh's Symposium feat. Brian Merchant

From TRASHFUTURE by TRASHFUTURE

March 27, 2026 · 11 min · Episode 980

About this episode

The episode features Brian Merchant discussing the implications of AI in education and athletics, alongside a critique of ed-tech practices.

In this week's bonus episode, friend of the show Brian Merchant joins Riley, Hussein, and Nate to discuss an ed-tech security firm selling digital hall passes for anti-vaping counterinsurgency. We also discuss Brian's writing about ways in which AI is supplanting professional roles in... education, but also in NCAA athletics training? With predictable results. Check out Blood in the Machine here! Have you lost your job due to AI? Check out AI Commons, who raise money to help people in your situation, and also allow you to share your story (anonymously) if you want to. If you want to hear more, you can get the whole episode on Patreon here! TF Merch is still available here! *MILO ALERT* Check out Milo’s tour dates here:https://www.miloedwards.co.uk/liveshows Trashfuture are: Riley (@raaleh), Milo (@Milo_Edwards), Hussein (@HKesvani), Nate (@inthesedeserts), and November (@postoctobrist)

People in this episode

Hosts: Riley, Hussein, Nate, Milo Edwards

Guest: Brian Merchant

Topics covered

  • ed-tech
  • AI impact
  • vaping counterinsurgency
  • NCAA athletics
  • job loss
  • digital hall passes

Keywords

  • Play-Doh
  • ed-tech security
  • AI
  • job loss
  • NCAA
  • vaping
  • digital hall passes

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: AI Commons

Books & works: Blood in the Machine

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