The Cross Examiner Podcast

In this riveting episode of the Cross Examiner podcast, our host returns with renewed vigor to tackle the pressing issues of today, drawing parallels between the past and present. With a focus on the classic film Blazing Saddles, we explore the historical context of racism in America, particularly against Chinese immigrants during the late 1800s. As we dissect the rise of Christian nationalism and the misinformation fueling it, our host emphasizes the importance of education and critical thinking in combating ignorance. Join us for a thought-provoking journey that connects history to contemporary issues and advocates for a more informed society.Chapters:(00:00) Cross Examiner is the Internet's courtroom in the case of rationality versus religion(00:40) Cross Examiner is alarmed by the rise of Christian nationalism(01:31) Rachel Maddow: Blazing Saddles is one of the smartest films on racism(09:20) To hold people's attentions. Especially since the rise of Trumpism in America(10:44) The story of Chinese immigrants in America begins in the 1800s(16:44) Grant Wasinsky: Congress made Chinese exclusion permanent in 1902(21:19) What did the Chinese Americans do in response to this?(24:25) Wong Kim Ark was born in San Francisco in 1870(29:54) The Supreme Court hears oral arguments today over the immigration executive order(36:24) A federal judge can issue a nationwide injunction on immigration cases(40:16) This case is going to affect 14 different executive orders(47:07) There will be a liberal executive who uses the same tactics that Trump taught(49:20) Cross examiner podcast returns with first episode since presidential electionBlazing Saddleshttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0071230/Chinese Exclusion Acthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_Exclusion_ActWong Kim Arkhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wong_Kim_ArkAtheist Community of Austinhttps://www.atheist-community.org/American Civil Liberties Unionhttps://www.aclu.org/Freedom From Religion Foundationhttps://ffrf.org/

A quick update as I head to Indianapolis for Gen Con. Preview some upcoming topics, series and interviews.

In this unscripted Rocket Docket episode of the Cross Examiner Podcast, we delve into the breaking news of President Biden dropping out of the race and its implications for the rise of Christian nationalism in the United States. Join us as we explore the potential outcomes, the role of Kamala Harris, and the future of the Democratic Party. Don't miss this critical analysis of a pivotal moment in American history!Chapters:(00:00) Introduction(01:00) Biden Drops Out: Immediate Reactions(05:00) Kamala Harris: The Next in Line?(10:00) The Financial War Chest(15:00) Popularity and Polling(20:00) The Debate Challenge(25:00) Democratic Party Dynamics(35:00) Historical Context and Future Implications(45:00) Biden's Resignation Letter(50:00) Trump's Response(55:00) Christian Nationalism and Project 2025(60:00) Conclusion

In this enlightening episode, our host continues his deep dive with the renowned Godless Engineer, exploring the intriguing subject of mythicism. Building on their previous conversation, they delve into the complexities of mythicism, examining the evidence and lack thereof for the historical existence of Jesus.Godless Engineer, also known as John, shares his insights on how early Jewish Christians might have reinterpreted existing scriptures to create the figure of Jesus, paralleling the development of other mystery cults of the time. They discuss the implications of Paul's writings, the influence of mystery cults, and the reinterpretation of Old Testament scriptures.Throughout the episode, our host and Godless Engineer address common objections and questions, including the argument that similar mystery cults were created by Satan to confuse believers. They also touch on the importance of critical thinking and the challenges of confronting deeply held beliefs with historical analysis.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the historical roots of Christianity, the development of religious stories, and the application of critical thinking to religious claims. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional narratives and offers new perspectives on ancient beliefs.

In this episode, our host engages in a candid conversation with the renowned Godless Engineer, also known as John. John shares his journey from a Catholic upbringing to becoming a prominent atheist advocate, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way.Listeners will get to know John's background, his work with the Atheist Community of Austin, and the wide range of topics he covers on his YouTube channel, from atheism and politics to the intersections of science and religion. The episode delves into the importance of defining terms in debates, the misuse of statistical arguments by creationists, and the societal pressures faced by atheists in religious communities. John's insights into the tactics used by Christian apologists, his experiences with religious family members, and his commitment to fostering critical thinking and skepticism make this a compelling and enlightening episode.Stay tuned for the next episode, where we delve deeper into mythicism and its evidence with Godless Engineer. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider subscribing. See you soon!Find Godless Engineer at https://www.youtube.com/user/godlessengineer

Today, we focus on Judge Aileen Cannon's controversial dismissal of the secret documents case against Trump.Our host takes you on a historical journey, starting with the Vietnam War and the Pentagon Papers, to draw parallels with today's legal battles. We revisit the case of Daniel Ellsberg, who leaked the Pentagon Papers, and explore the Nixon administration's reaction, leading to the infamous Watergate scandal. The episode then transitions to the current legal landscape, examining Judge Cannon's decision and its implications.Dive deep into the legal intricacies, from the Supreme Court's stance on special prosecutors to the potential consequences of Cannon's ruling. Our host also dissects the broader context, including the echoes of Nixon's tactics in Trump's actions and the looming threat of Project 2025.Join us as we unravel the complexities of these legal maneuvers and their impact on American democracy. Will Trump's legal team succeed in delaying justice until after the next election? Tune in to find out.Chapters- 0:00 - Introduction and the Rise of Christian Nationalism- 5:00 - The Pentagon Papers and Daniel Ellsberg- 15:00 - Nixon's Reaction and the Formation of the Plumbers- 25:00 - The Watergate Scandal Unfolds- 35:00 - Special Prosecutors and Supreme Court Precedents- 45:00 - Judge Eileen Cannon's Controversial Ruling- 55:00 - The Implications for Trump's Legal Battles- 1:05:00 - Project 2025 and the Future of American Democracy- 1:15:00 - Conclusion and Call to ActionIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider liking and subscribing. Visit our website, thecrossexaminer.net, for more information and additional content. Stay informed and stay engaged.

Welcome to another episode of the Cross Examiner Rocket Docket, where you are the judge. In this urgent episode, our host, an atheist attorney, dives into the recent Supreme Court decision in Trump v. US. The ruling has profound implications, suggesting that a president could be immune from prosecution for actions taken under core constitutional powers, even if those actions include extreme measures like ordering an assassination.The episode unpacks the Supreme Court's opinion, including dissents from Justices Sotomayor and Jackson. The host explores the three "buckets" of presidential activity defined by the court: core constitutional powers, purely private matters, and other official actions. The court's decision is critiqued for potentially reverting the presidency to a quasi-monarchical status, conflicting with the intentions of the founding fathers as expressed in the Federalist Papers.Our host raises critical questions about the future of presidential accountability and the potential need for a constitutional convention to clarify and update the nation's foundational document. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the balance of power in the United States government.

In the latest episode of the Cross Examiner podcast, we delve into a contentious legal battle that has significant implications for the separation of church and state in the United States. Our host, an attorney and atheist, interviews Sam Grover, Senior Counsel for Litigation at the Freedom from Religion Foundation (FFRF), to discuss their lawsuit challenging Louisiana's newly enacted law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom.The episode opens with a strong statement from the host, highlighting the alarming rise of Christian nationalism and the misinformation fueling it. This sets the stage for a deep dive into the legal intricacies of the case. Sam Grover, who has been with FFRF for over a decade, provides a comprehensive overview of the coalition formed to challenge the law. This coalition includes heavyweights like the ACLU, ACLU of Louisiana, and Americans United for Separation of Church and State, along with the law firm Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, which is offering pro bono services.Grover explains the mechanics of how such a coalition operates, from vetting potential plaintiffs to drafting the complaint. He emphasizes the overwhelming response from Louisiana residents who are concerned about the law's implications, highlighting that the coalition's plaintiffs include not just atheists and agnostics but also Christians and members of minority religions.One of the most compelling parts of the episode is the discussion about the real-world implications for plaintiffs. Grover recounts the harassment and threats faced by individuals who stand up against such unconstitutional laws, emphasizing the bravery of the plaintiffs involved in this case.The discussion then shifts to the legal arguments against the law. Grover breaks down the claims under the First Amendment's Establishment Clause and Free Exercise Clause. He argues that the Louisiana law is a blatant constitutional violation, citing the Supreme Court's precedent in Stone v. Graham, which struck down a similar law in Kentucky in 1980. Despite the Supreme Court's recent shift away from the Lemon test, which was used in Stone v. Graham, Grover remains confident that the coercive nature of the law will render it unconstitutional.The episode also touches on the broader implications of the Supreme Court's recent decisions, particularly the move towards a "history and tradition" test for Establishment Clause cases. Grover expresses concern about this shift but remains hopeful that the clear lack of historical precedent for such a law in public schools will work in their favor.The interview concludes with a call to action for listeners to support FFRF and other organizations fighting for the separation of church and state. Grover encourages listeners to become members, highlighting the importance of collective action in safeguarding constitutional rights.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in constitutional law, religious freedom, and the ongoing battle against Christian nationalism. Grover's insights provide a clear understanding of the stakes involved and the legal strategies being employed to protect the First Amendment.Introduction 00:00:00Interview with Sam Grover 00:02:00Background on FFRF and Legal Career 00:04:00Details of the Louisiana Case 00:10:00Legal Strategies and Challenges 00:20:00Historical Context and Legal Precedents 00:30:00Potential Outcomes and Future Implications 00:45:00Closing Remarks 00:58:00For more information about the Freedom from Religion Foundation and to support their efforts, visit their website at https://www.ffrf.org. To stay updated on future episodes and content, visit our website at https://www.thecrossexaminer.net.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, liking, and sharing the podcast. Your support helps us reach more

In today's Rocket Docket episode, our host, The Cross Examiner, addresses a concerning new development: Louisiana's mandate to display the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom. This controversial decision, signed into law by the governor, has sparked a heated debate about its constitutionality.Our host delves into the history of the First Amendment, examining key cases such as Reynolds v. United States, Abington School District v. Schempp, and the landmark Stone v. Graham decision, which directly parallels the current situation in Louisiana. He also discusses the significant impact of the "McConnell Court" and the troubling rise of Christian nationalism.Is Louisiana's new law a violation of the First Amendment's Establishment Clause? Will the Supreme Court uphold or overturn this mandate? Tune in as The Cross Examiner provides a comprehensive analysis, equipping you with the facts and arguments you need to understand this critical issue.Don't miss this episode filled with historical insights, legal analysis, and passionate advocacy for the separation of church and state.Thanks for listening to this episode of the Cross Examiner Rocket Docket. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider liking and subscribing. We'll see you soon.

Welcome to the Cross Examiner Podcast, the Internet's courtroom in the case of rationality versus religion. Here, our host uses his experience as both an attorney and an atheist to put religion on trial. We solemnly swear that it is the most informative, educational, and entertaining jury duty you will ever do.In today's episode, our host, The Cross Examiner, shares a special treat: an interview conducted by Latter-daily Digest. This channel focuses on content creation within the Mormon blogosphere. The Cross Examiner discusses his journey, the origins of his podcast, and the importance of critical thinking in today's society.Join us as we delve into The Cross Examiner's background, his experiences with the rise of Christian nationalism, and the massive amount of misinformation that powers it. We also explore the fascinating intersections between religion, politics, and law, and how The Cross Examiner uses his platform to combat misinformation and promote rational discourse.Chapters- 00:00 - Introduction- 02:00 - Interview with Ladder Daily Digest- 05:00 - The Origins of The Cross Examiner Podcast- 10:00 - The Rise of Christian Nationalism- 15:00 - The Importance of Critical Thinking- 20:00 - The Cross Examiner 's Background and Legal Career- 30:00 - The Intersection of Religion, Politics, and Law- 40:00 - Combating Misinformation- 50:00 - Future Plans for The Cross Examiner PodcastDon't forget to visit Ladder-daily Digest and give them a like and subscribe. https://www.youtube.com/@Latter-dailyDigestAlso, if you enjoy our content, please consider subscribing to The Cross Examiner Podcast. We don't do any commercials or monetization, so your support helps us reach more people and push back against misinformation.

In the latest episode of the Cross Examiner podcast, we delve into the fascinating journey of Dr. John Dehlin, host of the Mormon Stories podcast. Dr. Dehlin, an ex-Mormon, has dedicated his career to exposing the truths behind Mormon practices and helping others navigate their own faith crises. This episode is a continuation of our in-depth conversation with him, exploring the psychological and social impacts of religious indoctrination, the rise of Christian nationalism, and the role of misinformation.Dr. Dehlin's journey is both compelling and relatable. Raised as a sixth-generation Mormon, he was taught to obey and follow the church's teachings without question. However, cracks began to form in his faith as he encountered various inconsistencies and ethical concerns, particularly during his mission in Guatemala. His experiences there, coupled with the rise of the internet and the availability of information, led him to question the very foundations of his beliefs.One of the most striking aspects of Dr. Dehlin's story is the concept of the "shelf." In the Mormon and post-Mormon world, individuals are encouraged to put doubts and questions on a metaphorical shelf, trusting that answers will come in time. For Dr. Dehlin, the shelf eventually became too heavy to bear, leading to a profound crisis of faith. This journey of questioning and seeking truth is something many can relate to, regardless of their religious background.The episode also delves into the broader implications of religious indoctrination and the rise of secular support systems. Dr. Dehlin discusses the importance of organizations like Recovering from Religion and the Secular Therapy Project, which provide crucial support for individuals leaving high-demand religions. These organizations offer a safe space for people to explore their doubts and find a community that understands their struggles.One of the most powerful moments in the episode is when Dr. Dehlin talks about the psychological impact of leaving a high-demand religion. He shares how many individuals experience anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts as they grapple with the loss of their faith and the subsequent social and familial fallout. This highlights the critical need for mental health support and resources for those undergoing such transitions.Dr. Dehlin's work with the Mormon Stories podcast has not only helped countless individuals but also shed light on the broader human experience. As he aptly puts it, "The Mormon story is the human story." By sharing personal narratives, his podcast fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging listeners to see the common threads that connect us all.For those interested in exploring these themes further, we highly recommend tuning into this episode. Dr. Dehlin's insights and experiences offer a valuable perspective on the intersection of religion, truth, and personal transformation. Whether you're grappling with your own faith or simply curious about the human condition, this episode is sure to resonate.Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation. Listen to the full episode now and join us on this journey of discovery and understanding.

Welcome to the Cross Examiner Podcast, the Internet's courtroom in the case of rationality versus religion. Here, our host uses his experience as both an attorney and an atheist to put religion on trial. We solemnly swear that it is the most informative, educational, and entertaining jury duty you will ever do.In today's episode, our host delves into the fascinating and complex history of the Mormon church with special guest Dr. John Dehlin, host of the Mormon Stories podcast.  (https://www.youtube.com/@mormonstories)Together, they explore the origins of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the controversial practices of its founder Joseph Smith, and the church's ongoing efforts to manage its narrative.Our host and Dr. Dehlin discuss the psychological mechanisms that make people susceptible to religious claims, the role of authority and peer pressure in maintaining belief, and the ethical implications of withholding information from followers. This episode is packed with insights into how powerful institutions use misinformation to control and influence their members.This is part one of a two-part series, so stay tuned for the continuation of this enlightening and thought-provoking conversation.For more information, visit our website at www.thecrossexaminer.net, where you can find links to our social media platforms, YouTube channel, and various podcasting platforms.Don't miss out on the next episode where we continue this riveting discussion. Subscribe today to stay informed!

In a groundbreaking and unprecedented move, Donald J. Trump has become the first former president of the United States to be convicted on 34 felony counts. This landmark case has generated intense debate and scrutiny from all corners of the political spectrum.In our latest episode, we provide an unscripted, in-depth analysis of the trial, the evidence presented, and the explosive reactions from political figures and pundits. Was this a fair trial or a political witch hunt? We break down the arguments, the constitutional guarantees of a fair trial, and the process of jury selection.We also explore the broader implications of this case on public trust in the justice system, the role of Christian nationalism, and the power of misinformation in shaping public opinion.Don't miss this comprehensive examination of one of the most significant legal events in recent history. Tune in now and join the conversation. Your verdict matters.

Welcome to the Cross Examiner Podcast, the Internet's courtroom in the case of rationality versus religion. Our host, a seasoned attorney and outspoken atheist, takes on the rise of Christian nationalism and the misinformation fueling it. This episode is the third part of our series on homeopathy, where we delve into the pseudo-scientific practices and the alarming lack of regulation surrounding it. In this episode, our host recounts the history of homeopathy, from its inception by Samuel Hahnemann in the 1790s to its current status as a legally recognized "drug" under the FDA. He explains the dubious principles behind homeopathy, such as the "law of similars" and extreme dilutions, which result in remedies that are just water. The episode also covers the regulatory loopholes that allow homeopathic products to be marketed without proving their safety or efficacy. Our host also performs a daring stunt by ingesting 240 homeopathic pain relief pills and contacting the Poison Control Center to highlight the absurdity of these so-called remedies. The results are both enlightening and alarming, shedding light on the real risks posed by homeopathy and the urgent need for stricter regulations.Don't miss this eye-opening episode that challenges the very foundations of homeopathy and calls for a more rational approach to medicine. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider subscribing. Stay informed and stay rational.

Unbelievably, we now live in a world where a State will mandate that al public school classrooms MUST have a large copy of the ten Commandments on their walls.  I am arranging for guest attorneys to analyze this with me in a full episode, but today, I explain why this is a ten alarm fire when it comes to the separation of government and religion in the United States.

I continue the discussion of homeopathy as I ingest 240 pain relief pills all at once!  I then contact the Poison Control Center to find out what to do about my overdose.

For the start of Season 2, I wanted to address homeopathy and, more generally, alternative medicine.  In order to understand how insane it is that these substances are still marketed and purchased in large numbers, I set the stage by telling the story of a person hero of mine: a doctor who saved countless lives and, in the process, paved the way for the modern FDA.

Technical difficulties have delayed my premier.  Look for it to drop May 8!!

Just a quick announcement that Season Two of the Cross Examiner Podcast is coming soon!

I have been on vacation for several weeks but I am glad to be back!  The next in my series of episodes devoted to answer religious folks who ask atheists, "If you don't believe in God, why do you care so much?"  I review several current news topics that demonstrate “Why We Care.”Topics in this episode include:Moms for Liberty (aka "Klanned Karenhood") quote Hitler  and disrupt moment of silence in memory of Holocaust victims.Missionary rapes his daughter, but does the story go deeper?Tommy Tuberville approves of White Nationalists in the military and says they aren't racist, there just "American."Josh Hawley lies about the Christian founding of the U.S., then doubles down on the lie.Public school to teach bible class?Trump followers say Trump should take his political opponents to the "train station." Trump says that, if re-elected, he will ban "Christian haters" from entering the U.S.The Titan sub.There's a magical fishing wire around Manhattan that lets Jews ignore scripture.

In what was GOING to be a Rocket Docket episode but ended up being a full episode, we discuss how Kenneth Copeland is lying to the world about pretty much everything.  In this particular case, he is lying about George Washington and his inauguration!

I am starting a new type of segment called “The Rocket Docket.”  These will be shorter episodes discussing news of the day. Today, we listen to far-right Nashville pastor Kent Christmas tell his followers that they should be willing to “die for their beliefs” just like Muslim suicide bombers who “strap bombs to their chests.”  I am not exaggerating.

What do Edwin Meese and the (latest) Trump indictment have in common?  The answer may surprise you!In this episode, I read an unpublished essay of mine from 2020 that has suddenly become relevant, again due to Trump's latest indictment.  Fair warning, you will find no ranting about religion in this episode.  Instead I focus on my theme of people in power spreading misinformation about the legal system and government in order to deceive the public.

I am super excited to be able to bring you this interview with Ryan Jayne of the Freedom From Religion Foundation!  (https://ffrf.org/)  Thank you to Ryan for giving me so much of his time to help educate both my listeners as well as me on the great work that FFRF does in the fight against religious intrusion into our secular government.  Please support them any way that you can!In this part of the interview, we focus on faith healing in the United States and how it is killing children.RYAN'S BIO:Ryan is Senior Policy Counsel for FFRF's Strategic Response team. He received a B.A. in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Honors College in 2007. After graduating, Ryan taught piano and chess lessons while working as a financial advisor until 2012, when he began law school at Lewis & Clark in Portland, Oregon. In law school he focused on intellectual property and animal law, serving as an associate editor for the Animal Law Review at Lewis & Clark and co-founding the Pacific Northwest's first Secular Legal Society. Ryan graduated cum laude in 2015, began working with FFRF in January of 2015, and became a Diane Uhl Legal Fellow in September, 2015, specializing in faith-based government funding. Ryan became an FFRF staff attorney in September, 2017.

I am super excited to be able to bring you this interview with Ryan Jayne of the Freedom From Religion Foundation!  (https://ffrf.org/)  Thank you to Ryan for giving me so much of his time to help educate both my listeners as well as me on the great work that FFRF does in the fight against religious intrusion into our secular government.  Please support them any way that you can!RYAN'S BIO:Ryan is Senior Policy Counsel for FFRF's Strategic Response team. He received a B.A. in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Honors College in 2007. After graduating, Ryan taught piano and chess lessons while working as a financial advisor until 2012, when he began law school at Lewis & Clark in Portland, Oregon. In law school he focused on intellectual property and animal law, serving as an associate editor for the Animal Law Review at Lewis & Clark and co-founding the Pacific Northwest's first Secular Legal Society. Ryan graduated cum laude in 2015, began working with FFRF in January of 2015, and became a Diane Uhl Legal Fellow in September, 2015, specializing in faith-based government funding. Ryan became an FFRF staff attorney in September, 2017.

I review the history of child abuse, both religious-based abuse as well as secular abuse.  Starting with the disturbing global practice of “foundation sacrifices” and running through modern times, I describe how the rights of children have not improved that much since before the United States was formed with respect to being protected from their parents' religious-based medical neglect (aka "Faith Healing".)  I discuss why politicians refused to help these children and urge attorneys to seek out cases where we can rescue these children and start to fix the damage done by notorious Christian Scientists in the Nixon administration. 

Texas is attacking the United States Constitution!  In this episode, I follow-up on my appearance this week on The Non-Prophets  Episode 22.21 (May 28, 2023)  presented by The Atheist Community of Austin (ACA).  In that episode, I discuss multiple news items with my fellow hosts, Cynthia, Jimmy Jr. and Helen Greene.  Here, I dive deep into the discussion surrounding three Texas bills:Hiring chaplains to work in public schools;Mandating period of prayer and Bible reading in public schools; andMandating the posting of the Ten Commandments.

Next in our series on faith healing, we examine the efficacy of prayer.   Does it work?  If not, then why does the Bible say it does? If all the science shows that it does not work, then why do people believe that it does?

On this episode, The Cross Examiner experiences a miracle that, if it is legit, would be the most incredible miracle of all time!

In this episode, I am trying something new.  I will review several news topics I came across while researching my next deep dive episode in an attempt to explain “Why We Care.”Topics include:1)      Why Atheist Care2)      Donald Trump Indictment3)      Disney Fools DeSantis4)      Baby Dies Of Herpes Contacted From Orthodox Circumcision Ritual5)      GOP Rep Says They Won't Fix Gun Problems, We Better Pray6)      Lauren Boebert Quotes Bible All The Time, But Using It To Reflect On Her Own Family Would Be “Nitpicking”7)      Boebert Has Very Embarrassing Day

The Cross Examiner podcast reviews Montana Senate Bill No. 235 which will ban the teaching of scientific theories to schoolchildren in Montana and COULD ban all science classes.

The premiere episode of The Cross Examiner Podcast.  Before I jump into religion and government issues, I spend my first episode trying to find a case we can all agree on.