PHRANTONE 19-2025

9 May 2025

Dear Phran Klub,

I’ve been straight edge for most of my life. For the uninitiated, “straight edge” is a term from the ’90s punk scene for abstaining from drugs & alcohol.

Though I rocked a blue mohawk and moshed often in my college years, the word “most” above might be quickly underscored by my friends who know me well. Yes, I was 100% sober through all of my college years (I got buzzed for the first time at age 23), but I have had some drunken and psychedelic adventures since then. I’ve experimented with excess. I’ve embraced my dad’s nonbinary wisdom: “Moderation in all things, including moderation.”

At Burning Man last year, a physician friend and I were musing about the potential for an over-the-counter placebo product. The idea took root in my mind. A few days later, I embarked on my latest phase of complete sobriety. The timing was perfect. I opened a blank Photoshop document and started designing.

Twelve (!) iterations later, after many rounds of user testing and revision, I am pleased to present Placebeaus.
I hope they help you help you like they’ve helped me help me.

Frankie with a P-H