The topic of existential risk is a central theme across the podcast episodes, with several episodes directly addressing the potential threats posed by advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and nuclear weapons.

For example, the episode 'Existential Risk from Advanced AI' discusses how the development of superintelligent AI systems could pose an existential threat to humanity if not properly controlled and aligned with human values. Similarly, the episode 'Nuclear War' explores the catastrophic consequences of nuclear conflict and the need for better decision-making and coordination to mitigate this risk.

Other episodes, such as 'History of Existential Risk Concerns' and 'Existential Risk from Advanced AI', provide historical context and philosophical perspectives on the human species' growing awareness of its own potential for extinction, and the efforts to understand and address these risks.