Podcasts about skeptic zone

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:06:40 For Crying Out Loud! This week Kat McLeod (with a little help from Adrienne Hill) interviews attendees and guests from the recent "We Can Reason" conference in Calgary, Canada. Includes Seth Andrews, Leslie Rosenblood, Brenda Hill, Forrest Valkai, Rodney Schmaltz and Lei Pinter. 0:19:04 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Unnatural Selection By Tim Mendham Part 4 of 5 Alfred Russel Wallace (1823 - 1913) was an English naturalist, explorer, geographer, anthropologist, biologist and illustrator. He independently conceived the theory of evolution through natural selection; his 1858 paper on the subject was published that year alongside extracts from Charles Darwin's earlier writings on the topic. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 44 No. 2 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:27:50 Psychic Penny's Horoscopes Exclusive to The Skeptic Zone, Psychic Penny casts a horoscope and looks deep into the stars. Is your fate in her hands? This week her mystic insights for Leo, Virgo, Libra and Scorpio. 0:33:12 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to so-called psychic detective, Dorothy Allison and James Randi. 1980.10.23 - The Ledger 1997.08.19 - The Ludington Daily News 1999.12.03 - The Banger Daily News http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Dr Karl - Artificial Intelligence or Artificial Idiocy? Tue, 27 May, 6pm - 7:15pm https://events.humanitix.com/artificial-intelligence-or-artificial-idiocy

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:38 You Can Count on Adrienne This week Adrienne interviews attendees and guests from the recent "We Can Reason" conference in Calgary, Canada. Includes Terrlyn Seltenrich, Janalee Morris, Leslie Rosenblood and Dr Eugenie Scott. 0:20:24 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Unnatural Selection By Tim Mendham Part 3 of 5 Alfred Russel Wallace (1823 - 1913) was an English naturalist, explorer, geographer, anthropologist, biologist and illustrator. He independently conceived the theory of evolution through natural selection; his 1858 paper on the subject was published that year alongside extracts from Charles Darwin's earlier writings on the topic. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 44 No. 2 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:29:40 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:44:40 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Australian Skeptics Water Divining Tests. 2001.02.07 - The Weekly Times 2001.02.14 - The Weekly Times 2001.03.14 - The Weekly Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:06:24 Prophecies about the Pope With a new Pope just around the corner, we review various prophetic writings about this high religious office. Will the next Pope be the last? Will Rome fall? A holy tangled web from centuries past. The Prophecies Of Nostradamus 1979 https://archive.org/details/the-prophecies-of-nostradamus-1979 0:16:26 Psychic Penny's Horoscopes Exclusive to The Skeptic Zone, Psychic Penny casts a horoscope and looks deep into the stars. Is your fate in her hands? This week her mystic insights for Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer. 0:23:14 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Unnatural Selection By Tim Mendham Part 2 of 5 Alfred Russel Wallace (1823 - 1913) was an English naturalist, explorer, geographer, anthropologist, biologist and illustrator. He independently conceived the theory of evolution through natural selection; his 1858 paper on the subject was published that year alongside extracts from Charles Darwin's earlier writings on the topic. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 44 No. 2 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:33:00 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Psychic Predictions from 1980. 1980.01.16 - The Melbourne Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:26 A Challenge to So-Called Psychics A review of the challenge to psychics, and people claiming other paranormal powers, put out by Australian Skeptics in 1984. How does this compare to 2025? https://www.skeptics.com.au/about/activities/challenge 0:20:28 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Unnatural Selection By Tim Mendham Part 1 of 5 Alfred Russel Wallace (1823 - 1913) was an English naturalist, explorer, geographer, anthropologist, biologist and illustrator. He independently conceived the theory of evolution through natural selection; his 1858 paper on the subject was published that year alongside extracts from Charles Darwin's earlier writings on the topic. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 44 No. 2 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:30:26 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. Also hear Adrienne's insights of her travels across the Pacific Ocean and encounters with alternative medicine. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:46:10 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "The New Age". 1988.12.13 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1988.10.11 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au  

0:00:00 Introduction Kat McLeod 00:02:30 Susan vs. Psychics We catch up with Susan Gerbic to hear her thoughts on what she's dubbed "Motivated Sitters", that is people who actively take part in so-called psychic readings and, unknowingly, do most of the hard work. 0:24:18 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham I Can Smell Onions By Ken McLeod In this report, Ken McLeod recounts the time that psychics tried to help in finding missing aircraft. Read by Tim Mendham. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 24 No. 2 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:32:54 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Meeting of skeptical women. Be a fly on the wall when Adrienne meets up with Annie McCubbin and Australian Skeptics president Jessica Singer for an informal chat. 0:44:16 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Voodo Pills and Powders. 1945.09.01 - The World's News http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:24 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod How are you feeling? It is a common question people ask each other all the time. Most of us give thought to our diet, exercise or overall health on a regular basis. On this week's show Kat McLeod will look at society's obsession with the health and wellness industry, in hopes that you will feel better about yourself. 0:29:02 Extinction Over? The Riddle of the Dire Wolf Recent media headlines would have you think that scientists have solved extinction! Have Dire Wolves really been brought back from the dead? We seek the thoughts of Brian Dunning who casts some doubt on this claim. 0:30:12 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Kat McLeod. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:40:52 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Psychic Precognition. 1950.08.26 - The Gippsland Times 1936.06.06 - The Courier Mail 1968.10.39 - the Canberra Times 1939.09.02 - Australian Women's Weekly http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub - April 2025 - Karen Bijkersma https://youtu.be/fCvua9BUnSI

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:08:54 The Loons From Canada Kate & Allie vs. AI Just how good is AI in April 2025? Kate & Allie test Copilot from Microsoft when it come to its skeptical knowledge. 00:21:48 Maynard's Spooky Action This week Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to see a talk by Karen Bijkersma, a distant relative of the Skeptical Fairy Godmother Angel from the Internet. He took the opportunity to interview Karen and Annie McCubbin about their upcoming podcast episode on the Why Smart Women podcast. Why Smart Women Podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2385970 0:25:18 Around the Curve to the Antarctic Rob Palmer talks with Jeran Campanella, a former "Flat Earther", about his trip to the Antarctic to see for himself the 24 hour sun. https://skepticalinquirer.org/authors/rob-palmer 0:33:26 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Pyramid Power. 1978.01.15 - The Sun Herald 1977.11.12 - The Sun Herald 1977.12.21 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au  

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:40:10 The Loons from Canada Join Kate and Allie as they investigate paranormal activity at Concordia University with Rodney Schmaltz's fourth-year psychology students from McEwan University. They explore potential ghostly presences using dowsing rods, EVPs, ghost photography, and infrasound detection. Listen to eerie recordings and a few giggles as they explore the spooky, old building in the dark. 0:24:04 UFO No Show You might be surprised to hear that a couple of weeks ago our planet was supposed to have been invited by giant alien motherships. Is it possible that the psychics, mystics and channels who foresaw this momentous event were wrong? If so, why? 0:33:56 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:47:48 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Abominable Snowman. 1953.03.03 - The Mercury - Tasmania 1959.09.07 - The Canberra Times 1953.12.09 - Brisbane Telegraph 1952.07.12 - The Daily New Queensland 1954.02.13 - The Daily Advertiser NSW 1988.10.17 - Th Canberra Times 1964.02.23 - The Sun Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Skeptics Cafe Meet the one and only Adrienne Hill, a.k.a. Psychic Penny! Function Room at The Stolberg Hotel, 197 Plenty Road Preston, Melbourne 31st March - Dinner from 6pm - Talk at 7:30pm https://www.facebook.com/events/1370082674018460? Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Meet the one and only Karen Bijkersma CATFISH, PHISHING AND OTHER ONLINE PREDATORS Thursday, April 3, 2025 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM The Occidental Hotel 43 York Street - Sydney https://www.meetup.com/austskeptics

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:08:48 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Adrienne chats with Johnathan Jarry from the McGill Office of Science and Society regarding his recent expose about Joe Mercola. Johnathan describes the controversial and jaw-dropping findings discovered after a whistle-blower sent him videos depicting strange conversations between Mercola and a psychic medium. Find out Mercola's thoughts on veterinarians, unconventional carbon dioxide treatments and how he is using Chat GPT. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRps3VQ-0BE&t=281s https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/critical-thinking-health-and-nutrition-pseudoscience/exclusive-videos-show-dr-joe-mercolas-dangerous-ideas-whipped-alleged-medium 0:24:40 The Naked Skeptic An opinion piece by Richard Saunders. Abusing science is sadly prevalent in our society. Originally published in Australasian Science, Oct. 2002. 0:32:44 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Graphology. Included in this report are audio clips from "James Randi: Psychic Investigator" (1991) and various TikTok videos. Joining Richard Saunders are Kat McLeod and Adrienne Hill. 1989.06.08 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1969.10.07 - The Age 2005.04.29 - The Australian Jewish News http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also The adventures of Psychic Penny and the Galactic Federation - series #1 https://youtu.be/9bszCu-_SAU Annelise Baer - Your friendly neighborhood archaeologist & Emmy-nominated researcher - Pyramid Pseudoscience https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrJQt3aT Skeptics Cafe Meet the one and only Adrienne Hill, a.k.a. Psychic Penny! Function Room at The Stolberg Hotel, 197 Plenty Road Preston, Melbourne 31st March - Dinner from 6pm - Talk at 7:30pm https://www.facebook.com/events/1370082674018460?

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:06:54 The Loon From Canada Kate and Allie return to the topic of the Mandela Effect and explore the rabbit hole of the International Mandela Effect Conference, featuring speakers who delve into consciousness, quantum silliness, and miraculous phenomena; the conference is more paranormal pondering than scientific symposium. They even are able to manifest special guest Coleman Watts from the Think This Through Channel on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkThisThroughChannel Mandella effect video: https://youtu.be/lEi_-nDoQXs 0:21:28 Deep Seek - The Play - Penny's Adventures #7 We asked Deep Seek AI to write part #7 of the misadventures of psychic Penny and the Galactic Federation. Joining Richard Saunders in this segment, playing the parts of a psychic and aliens, are Kat McLeod, Adrienne Hill, Lara Benham and Maynard. 0:30:18 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:41:44 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to James Randi. 1980.07.26 - The Age - Melbourne 1993.06.26 - The Age - Melbourne 1993.07.08 - The Age - Melbourne http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:40 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod This week Kat interviews Annie McCubbin from Australia. Annie is an actor, author and corporate trainer, committed to elevating the quality of critical thinking in business and life. She focuses on helping women avoid being conned by new-age nonsense and self-help platitudes. She is the author of Why Smart Women Make Bad Decisions (published in 2020) and Why Smart Women Buy the Lies (published in 2023). https://linktr.ee/anniemccubbin 0:28:26 Deep Seek - The Play - Penny's Adventures #6 We asked Deep Seek AI to write part #6 of the misadventures of psychic Penny and the Galactic Federation. Joining Richard Saunders in this segment, playing the parts of a psychic and aliens, are Kat McLeod, Adrienne Hill, Lara Benham, Maynard and Kathy Rightmire. 0:36:50 What can AI tell us about Cold Reading? Will AI ever replace psychics? We think it's quite possible. In this week's episode we interview an AI engine to get its opinions on the matter and get a cold reading along the way. https://www.sesame.com 0:43:56 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Australian Skeptics. 1987.04.24 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1997.08.12 - The Age 1989.06.03 - The Age http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Surf Coast Skepticamp http://www.tinyurl.com/scsc2025 Joe Nickell with Maynard 2015 http://www.tinyurl.com/scsc2025

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:20 Revisiting the Beaumont Children Mystery In January 1966 three young children went missing from an Adelaide beach. This, one of the great unsolved cold cases of Australian criminal history, was not helped by the distraction of so-called psychics. News reel from 1966 with Gerard Croiset https://youtu.be/6phR-jFnx3g?t=666 TV news report from 1990 about June Cox a so-called psychic who was no help in the case https://www.nfsa.gov.au/collection/curated/asset/99408-clairvoyant-joins-beaumont-children-search 0:20:34 Meta AI - The Play - Penny's Adventures #5 We asked Meta AI to write part #5 of the misadventures of psychic Penny and the Galactic Federation. Joining Richard Saunders in this segment, playing the parts of a psychic and aliens, are Kat McLeod, Adrienne Hill, Lara Benham, Maynard and Kathy Rightmire. 0:27:30 In Search Of - Water Seekers - 1980 Review A review from an Australian newspaper in 1980 of the 1978 episode from the "In Search Of" series that looks into the phenomenon of water divining or water dousing. https://youtu.be/SMCo1tvsauE 0:33:40 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Surf Coast Skepticamp http://www.tinyurl.com/scsc2025

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:32 Wikipedia and Belle Gibson Susan Gerbic from Guerrilla Skeptics on Wikipedia takes us through some of the recent activity and interest shown in convicted scammer Belle Gibson in relation to her Wikipedia page. 0:20:42 In Search Of - Water Seekers A review of the 1978 episode from the "In Search Of" series that looks into the phenomenon of water divining or water dousing. We discover pseudoscience and logical fallacies galore. An excellent lesson in critical thinking. https://youtu.be/SMCo1tvsauE 0:38:14 Gimini - The Play - Penny's Adventures #4 We asked Gemini AI to write part #4 of the misadventures of Psychic Penny and the Galactic Federation. Joining Richard Saunders in this segment, playing the parts of a psychic and aliens, are Kat McLeod, Adrienne Hill, Lara Benham and Maynard. 0:44:54 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Australian Skeptics. 1987.04.17 - The Canberra Times 1994.09.22 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Surf Coast Skepticamp http://www.tinyurl.com/scsc2025 Jabba's Curious World - 2011 Paranormal in Australia https://youtu.be/jYWAmtNJIj0

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:22 What If? What if "Psychics" really were psychic? What if "Diviners" really could find water? What if people could really predict the future? What would the world be like if these strange claims are actually true? Richard Saunders poses a few thought experiments. 0:13:10 Chat GPT - The Play - Penny's Adventures #3 We asked Chat GPT to write part #3 of the misadventures of psychic Penny and the Galactic Federation. Joining Richard Saunders in this segment, playing the parts of a psychic and aliens, are Kat McLeod, Adrienne Hill, Lara Benham and Maynard. 0:19:20 VR Skeptics Lara Benham, Adrienne Hill, Ross Blocher and Richard Saunders enjoy a little virtual reality golf and chat about the upcoming Skeptoid Cruise to the Bermuda Triangle. 0:24:30 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:52 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Paranormal Politics. 1995.03.22 - The Canberra Times 1940.05.15 - The Manning Times 1993.12.27 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Kat McLeod on Why Smart Women https://www.buzzsprout.com/2385970/episodes/16592626-what-happened-to-kat Richard Saunders' talk. Psychic Detectives : False Trails. https://youtu.be/pfAntkVFxcs

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:34 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod Here at the Skeptic Zone we adore our listeners, and with Valentine's Day approaching, we thought we would do a segment dedicated to you, the listener. Are you feeling the love? Roses can be red, violets aren't blue. On this week's show, Kat will be looking at Valentine's Day origins, myths, and alternatives for you. 0:14:16 Copilot - The Play - Penny's Adventures #2 We asked Copilot to write part #2 of the misadventures of psychic Penny and the Galactic Federation. Joining Richard Saunders in this segment, playing the parts of a psychic and aliens, are Kat McLeod, Adrienne Hill, Lara Benham and Maynard. 00:21:36 Maynard's Spooky Action What do people at Sydney Skeptics in tne Pub, including Tim Mendham, think about intuition and 'gut feelings'? Find out as Maynard asks the tough questions. 0:35:52 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Strange Monsters. 1946.03.30 - The West Australian 1938.03.17 - The Western Mail http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Surf Coast Skepicamp http://www.tinyurl.com/scsc2025

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:03:44 Looking to the Stars This week we once again check into those folks on the Internet who claim they are in regular contact with aliens from all over the cosmos. Are we about to receive a visitation? Also an update on Ross Coulthart and his amazing claims about the drone invasion of 2024. 0:17:58 DeepSeek - The Play Yet another new AI model is available. We test DeepSeek! Can it write a play in under 10 seconds? Joining me in this segment, playing the parts of a psychic and aliens, are Kat McLeod, Adrienne Hill and Lara Benham. 0:25:30 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:36 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Mesmerism. 1850.09.25 - Hobarton Guardian, or, True Friend of Tasmania 1927.08.07 - The Sunday Times - Sydney 1888.06.30 - The Daily Telegraph - Sydney http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:06 Looking to the Stars This week we gaze towards the heavens to observe the planetary alignment. Also keeping an eye out for any UAPs or UFOs controlled by telepathy, and discovering the fate of the television news astrology segment. Hunting UFOs - Video https://youtu.be/3dtA9w5ldHw 0:14:44 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill. Modern Mystery School summary - Part 2: Adrienne continues her conversation with Faith Newsome and Ramiro Rodriguez about the mystique of the Modern Mystery School. Can things become more unbelievable than what was discussed in part 1? Be sure to listen to find out. 0:34:40 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Reincarnation. 1893.01.07 - The Wagga Wagga Express 1954.03.13 - The Guardian - Perth 1938.02.19 - The Advertiser - Adelaide http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Surf Coast Skepicamp http://www.tinyurl.com/scsc2025 Planet Maynard http://www.maynard.com.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:58 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill. Modern Mystery School - Part #1 Adrienne is joined by guests Faith Newsome and Ramiro Rodriguez to dive into the world of the dazzling domain of the Modern Mystery School. Never heard of it before? Neither had we! But it is another New Age group with a worldwide wave of followers. Part #2 next week. 0:23:42 UFO Disclosure is Coming Any Day Now... I Promise... Will journalist Ross Coulthart end up with alien egg all over his face? Any day now we've been promised disclosure and more evidence from so-called whistleblowers. So far these whistleblowers have been more "blow hards" than anything else. Take a deep breath, a stiff drink and prepare to hear yet more amazing revelations from the UFO believers just like the "amazing revelations" of months and years gone by. Ross Coulhart on Tiktok https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS64c1hwM/ 0:29:50 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:40:48 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian and Canadian newspapers on a search for references to Creationism in Schools. With Kat McLeod, Lara Benham, Adrienne Hill and Richard Saunders. 1975.02.03 - The Daily Herald Tribune - Canada 1952.04.23 - The Adelaide Advertiser 1930.05.31 - The Kangaroo Island Courier 1923.07.12 - The Brisbane Courier 1978.11.17 - The Calgary Albertan http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

  0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:14 Channeling Aliens on TikTok We look at some of the many people on TikTok who claim to be in touch with aliens from the far reaches of the galaxy. Very long distance calls! 0:16:52 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod Can you trust what you were taught in health class? Do you think you know basic human anatomy? For crying out loud, Kat McLeod is back this week and will have you questioning what you thought was common knowledge. 0:30:32 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard travels to the Bermuda Triangle, virtually. This week Maynard gives his review on the various TV shows and movies that take place in the Bermuda Triangle over the years. With Lara Benham and Richard Saunders 0:43:10 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "The Coogee Beach Virgin Mary". 2003.02 - The Sydney Morning Herald 2003.02.03 - The Sydney Morning Herald 2005.02.05 - The Sydney Morning Herald https://www.museumoflost.com/the-virgin-mary-at-coogee-beach http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also https://karenbijkersma.com.au    

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:04 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod Were the medieval times as torturous as we are led to believe? What do torture devices and GSoW have in common? Find out this week as Kat ties it all together as she reviews what we think we know about the past and reminds us to always consider the source whenever we are learning new things. 0:18:30 Jimmy Carter's Message to the Cosmos A message penned in 1977 by the late President Jimmy Carter was sent with spacecraft currently traveling in interstellar space, intended for alien eyes. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/voyager-spacecraft-statement-the-president 0:24:32 The TROVE Archives With guest Lara Benham A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Bermuda Triangle. 1978.11.05 - The Canberra Times 1995.12.14 - Army 1977.06.09 - The Port Lincoln Times 1977.10.11 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:03:06 Kate & Allie With the close of 2024 drawing near and the start of a new year dawning, Kate and Allie both had the idea of making a quiz for the last episode of the year to surprise each other - so surprise, the loons ended up with two quizzes! Play along with their tag-team trivia and take time to look at new year's eve superstitions from around the world, see how many traditions you've heard about. 0:20:16 Drones Droning on about Drones Are drones from outer space? Do they come from the ocean? Are they manufactured in factories and bought by people and companies? We look at the recent influx of drones in the United States and find a stunning prediction for the year 2025! Mick West looks at the drone phenomena. https://youtu.be/ZK4HFxzsjgo 00:26:38 For Crying Out Load! It's Kat McLeod The white lady, the lady of the lake, pale, semi-transparent ghostly apparitions all seem to have some commonalities. This week Kat is going to delve into the reasons why we think of ghosts the way we do, and explore how society's perception of ghosts hasn't changed much over the centuries. 0:36:36 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Failed Predictions". 1990.03.10 - The Canberra Times 1990.04.13 - The Canberra Times 1991.01.02 - The Canberra Times 1994.05.31 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:03:58 New Moon Superstitions Lara Benham (and the Skeptic Zone cats) take a look at some of the myths and superstitions regarding the new moon. Included is a clip from our friend Kenny Biddle. 0:14:18 Flat Earthers fall flat in the Antarctic A report of a group of hopeful flat earthers and globe earthers who travel to the Antarctic to view the 24 hour sun...... or not! 24h Timelapse of Antactic Sun https://youtu.be/in0B1OQG3-M 0:24:58 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:03:42 Richard Saunders' Skeptical Challenge Over the past 25 years, Saunders had the opportunity of being involved in numerous preliminary tests for the Australian Skeptics challenge, as well as the James Randi Educational Foundation's (JREF) US$1,000,000 prize in the 2010s, where he served on the committee that met annually in Las Vegas. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 44 No. 4 (2024) http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:43:36 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to New Moon Superstitions. 1892.03.12 - The Queenbean Age 1943.09.29 - The Inverel Times 1908.11.21 - The Pastral Times 1834.03.25 - The Sunday Mail 1924.06.14 - The Queenbean Figero http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Kenny Biddle with Kat McLeod and Lara Benham https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ytPtiuunFdc

  0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:03:50 A Review of The Skeptic We take a peek into the latest issue of one of the world's oldest skeptical magazines. What reports, interviews and stories can you expect to see this time? Find out. 0:11:48 You can count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Adrienne Hill chats with infectious disease immunologist and science communicator David Miles about his book called "How Vaccines Work: The Science and History Behind Every Question You've Wanted to Ask." https://www.variolator.com 0:28:44 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Spoon and Skeptical. 1975.03.13 - The Australian Jewish Times 1986.04.03 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Kenny Biddle with Kat McLeod and Lara Benham https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ytPtiuunFdc    

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:02:56 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Adrienne Hill talks with fellow Calgarian, psychologist, and science communicator Jonathan Stea, who recently published Mind the Science: Saving Your Mental Health from the Wellness Industry. https://www.jonathanstea.com 0:19:10 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod Do you ever question your memory? Of course, we all do, however, people of a certain age may often start to feel older when they misremember things that they felt certain about. Is it a sign of senility? Probably not. This week Kat is examining the Mandela Effect and why people can't always trust their own memory. 0:31:26 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:44:00 I Think We Need To Think! With Susan Gerbic This week Susan heads off to a local "Psychic" Fair and has readings that shock and amaze.... no one! What mysterious insights did those claiming paranormal powers have for her? Find out with Susan. 0:51:46 Maynard's Spooky Action Interviews from Skepticon XL Richard Saunders Alanta Colley Nate Eggins Ben Radford - "Radford or What?" Paul Gallagher

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:01:08 Squaring the Zone On the final day of Skepticon XL, Richard Saunders from The Skeptic Zone podcast joins Ben Radford from the Squaring the Strange podcast along with the one and only Maynard. Topics include the history of both podcasts, investigations, "What are you skeptical of this week?", and a TROVE segment. Also questions from the audience. Also https://squaringthestrange.libsyn.com  

  0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:02:32 Ben Radford in Sydney A chat with Ben Radford about his first trip to Australia and his adventures and the Squaring the Strange Podcast. 0:07:24 The Bent Spoon Award for 2024 The announcement of the 2024 Australian Skeptics Awards. 0:18:56 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:28:06 Maynard's Spooky Action From Sydney Skeptics in the Pub, Maynard talks to Dr Liam Brierley a Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow, UK. He uses biostatistics, computer science, and AI to investigate how viruses evolve and transmit between animal species. Liam is also a Media Ambassador for the Royal Statistical Society and has worked with national press including The Guardian and BBC's Panorama to make sense of health data. 0:37:42 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Alien Autopsy of 1995. 1995.06.29 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au    

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Maynard from the William Shatner Room at Maynard's International Studios. 00:05:42 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill. Tim Binga is director of Libraries and IT manager at the Center for Inquiry and an adjunct instructor at the University at Buffalo. He holds a master's degree in library science and dual B.A.'s in history and humanities. 0:12:50 A Brave New World? A peek into the world of fake scripts read by fake podcast presenters. Notebook LM takes reports and other documents, even web pages, and turns them into an audio conversation. In tnis example we hear what AI make of The Great Australian Psychic Prediction Project. https://notebooklm.google.com 00:29:54 CSIcon Las Vegas interviews with Rob Palmer In the fourth and last part in this series, Rob chats to the host of 502 Conversations Brian Kerby and TV Producer Malorie Mackey. 0:39:56 A The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Dr Susan Blackmore. 1990.12.31 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also SitP - War, Pestilence, Death and Statistics https://youtu.be/3d2OYI12pvs

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:46 The Loons from Canada Kate and Allie catch up with Abhijit Chanda from the Rationable Podcast in India. This interview was conducted on the sidelines of the recent CSICON meeting in Las Vegas. 00:11:26 CSIcon Las Vegas interviews with Rob Palmer In the third part in this series, Rob chats to Kevin Folta, Bill Patterson and Jeff Gehlbach. 0:24:34 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:37:34 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Tea Cup Reading". 1932.08.12 - The Labour Daily 1932.12.20 - The Brisbane Courier 1932.12.20 - The Evening News - Rockhampton 1933.10.22 - The Sunday Times - Perth WA 1950.02.15 - The Brisbane Telegraph http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Maynard 00:03:56 The Loons From Canada Urban Legends Quiz! Fact or Fiction? This week Kate and Allie have a Halloween themed quiz! Kate, the Inquisitor, will be giving urban legend summaries, asking Allie and the listeners to decide if they are total works of fiction, or if they have a basis in reality. Please be advised that some of these urban legends may be creepy, spooky, or disturbing for some listeners. If you are brave enough, put on your critical thinking tiaras and see how you do. 00:26:14 CSIcon Las Vegas interviews with Rob Palmer In the second part in a series, Rob chats to famed mentalist Banachek, anti-creationist youtuber Forrest Valkai and Brazilian science writer Natalia Pasternak. 0:40:16 A The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Spirit Channeling. 1988.06.15 - The Canberra Times 1989.04.23 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders with those 'Loons from Canada', Kate and Allie, and Dr Sue Ieraci. 00:03:34 CSIcon Las Vegas interviews with Rob Palmer In the first in a series, Rob chats Dr Sue Ieraci, Dr Angie Mattke, Richard Saunders, Leonard Tramiel, Adrienne Hill and Stephen Hupp. 0:22:00 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:34:12 A The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to so-called "Alternative Medicine". 1992.02.01 - Woronie 1986.05.15 - The Canberra Times 1993.01.06 - The Hills Messenger - South Australia 1994.03.21 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:03:38 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Adrienne was invited by Dr. Rodney Schmaltz, a psychologist, to speak at Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton Canada. During the visit, Adrienne interviewed Dr. Schmaltz about the exciting activities in his critical thinking course and his involvement with the upcoming LiliCon 2024 on Thursday, October 24, from 12-4 pm at CSICon. https://www.rodneyschmaltz.com 00:11:46 Cancer Council WA nominated for Bent Spoon The Western Australia branch of the Cancer Council has been nominated for the 2024 Bent Spoon award for the promotion of pseudoscience, in this case offering therapies based on the pseudoscience of reiki and reflexology. https://www.skeptics.com.au/cancer-council-wa-nominated-for-bent-spoon/ 0:21:04 The Loons from Canada This week, you can count on Kate and Allie to sum up numerology, calculate some life path numbers, and multiply the giggles! They'll divide the complexities of the subject, angle in on the important bits, and hopefully not leave you feeling irrational. Tune in as they break down what it all means and show you how to add a little skepticism to your life! 0:35:32 A The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Crime and the Supernatural. 1939.12.02 - The Herald - Melbourne 1928.07.05 - The Kalgoorlie Miner http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Richard Saunders interviews Ross and Carrie about their podcast in 2011. https://youtu.be/t3XMqbhjRsM?t=253

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:46 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Erika Englehaupt Interview #2 Adrienne interviews Science Journalist Erika Englehaupt about her two books published within the last few years. This is part two of a two-part series in which we discuss her fascinating book Go to Hell: Journey to the Underworld. . http://erikaengelhaupt.com 00:23:56 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod More than just a magician's assistant. In honour of Women's History Month, Kat will be giving the listeners a history lesson about Rose Mackenberg. Known primarily for being Houdini's assistant, she was much more than that, she was a prolific debunker in her own right, and should be remembered for all she accomplished. https://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rose_Mackenberg 0:32:08 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 045:04 The TROVE Archives A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the great Harry Houdini. 1932 - The Truth https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/206129601 Also Mick West - UFO Trailer https://youtu.be/yhABMprFNes

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:06:14 Black Salve - Dangerous Quackery We look at action taken against those selling and promoting "Black Salve", a corrosive substance claimed to treat and cure skin conditions, even cancer. There are good reasons why this quackery has been banned by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration. https://luckylosing.com/2024/09/25/black-salve-the-australian-vaccination-network-and-the-therapeutic-goods-administration 0:23:02 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Erika Englehaupt interview #1 Adrienne interviews Science Journalist Erika Englehaupt about her two books published within the last few years. This is part one of a two-part series in which we discuss her fascinating book Gory Details: Adventures from the Dark Side of Science. In part two, we will discuss her newly published book Go to Hell: Journey to the Underworld. . http://erikaengelhaupt.com 0:36:34 A Dive into Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Psychic Investigations part #2. 1947.06.14 - Smith's Weekly 1934.10.30 - The Canberra Times 1984.01.15 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also https://www.tiktok.com/@austskeptics

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Maynard 00:04:12 Put your money where your mouth is! Mr Skeptic! A look at the history and various examples of skeptics, including the James Randi $1,000,000 challenge, putting up large amounts of money to challenge and possibly reward those who claimed to have paranormal powers. 0:29:28 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:42:44 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Psychic Investigations part #1. 1927.07.08 - The Daily Mercury - QLD 1932.01.27 - The Daily News - Perth WA 1932.02.24 - The Burra Record - SA 1935.02.23 - The Daily News - Perth WA http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub https://www.meetup.com/austskeptics

This week we interview good friend and podcast colleague Richard Saunders. We talk about skeptical activism in general and Richard's podcast the Skeptic Zone. We also hear all about the upcoming Skepticon XL in Sydney 23 -24 November.Enjoy!Segments:0:00:27 Intro0:00:50 Greetings0:00:53 Interview0:27:25 Farewell0:31:11 Outro0:32:25 Outtakeshttps://theesp.eu/podcast_archive/theesp-ep-446.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:08:50 You Can Count on Adrienne This week Adrienne catches up with Melanie Trecek-King from the website Thinking is Power. An interesting discussion about skeptical outreach and what value is the word skeptic after all? https://thinkingispower.com 0:23:26 2024 Bent Spoon Award Tim Mendham and Richard Saunders discuss the contenders for this year's Bent Spoon Award, awarded annually at the Australian Skeptics National Convention for the perpetrator of the most preposterous piece of pseudoscientific or paranormal piffle. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2024-bent-spoon-nominations-open 0:28:34 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Snake Oil. 1935.06.02 - The Sunday Times - Perth WA 1935.08.31 - The Australian Women's Weekly 1954.04.09 - Morning Bulletin - Rockhampton Qld 2013.05.19 - The Daily Telegraph http://www.trove.nla.gov.au  

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:38 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod Lucky Girl Syndrome, the Law of Attraction, the Power of Positive Thinking, the Secret, Manifesting - the same idea has been preached for nearly 150 years, under different names. Aren't we lucky? This week Kat is going to delve into the Law of Attraction, and tell us "The Secret to Manifesting good things in our lives!" 0:17:38 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:30:10 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "psychic" Briget Pluis. 2010 - Psychics Directory 1988.04.04 - The Canberra Times 1994.11.19 - The Sydney Morning Hearld http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Happy Birthday Skeptical Fairy

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:00 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham and Richard Saunders From 1986 - ZANEX PAYS GELLER OVER $350,00 The Australian-based mining company Zanex, paid magician and mentalist Uri Geller $US250,000 (over $A350,000) for his advice on where to look for gold in the Solomon Islands and near Maldon in Victoria. Tim also reads a newspaper item about this incident from the time and talks with Richard Saunders about the issues involved. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 6 No. 2 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:26:18 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub for a special screening of Brian Dunning's movie, "The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You To See". Maynard chats to various skeptics and guests about their thoughts on UFOs and the movie. 0:37:14 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to yet more UFOs. 1953.09.15 - The Adelaide Advertiser 1996.08.23 - The Australian Jewish News 1987.03.08 - The Canberra Times 1987.06.01 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:08 You Can Count on Adrienne The Travels of a Skeptic Zone Reporter Adrienne interviews Andras Pinter from The European Skeptics Podcast and Coleman Watts, a former conspiracy theorist turned science communicator, on her travels to the Rocky Mountains and then onto Iceland. Join her for these informal but informative interviews across the globe. The ESP Podcast https://theesp.eu Coleman Watts YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkThisThroughChannel 0:21:46 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:14 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the psychic predictions of Andreas Zee. 1975 July to December - The Australian Women's Weekly http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub - Special Presentation The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You to See Thursday 5 September - Occidental Hotel in the City https://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:02:50 Kate & Allie Folklore or Future Quiz Join Kate this week as she challenges Allie with a quiz. Kate will uncover a mysterious array of treatments and Allie will have to unravel the enigma of whether these practices hail from folklore of old or persist in the modern day. Play along to test your knowledge and possibly discover secret remedies you may have never heard of. 0:19:36 I Think We Need To Think Once again Susan Gerbic heads to a SkeptiCamp, this time in Seattle in the US state of Washington. Her interviews with organisers and attendees give us a flavour of the event. Susan's reports from local events encourage all of us to be more proactive no matter where in tne world we are. 0:30:42 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to prediction of the future from the past and mindbody spirit. 1984.12.29 - Canberra Times 1988.01.03 - Canberra Times 1995.09.04 - Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub - Special Presentation The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You to See Thursday 5 September - Occidental Hotel in the City https://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:03:22 Beyond Belief Bob Nixon tunes in and finds an old aquaintance up to his old tricks - very old tricks. "Like Deja vu all over again" In this report from 'The Skeptic Magazine' in 2001, a former investigator of Australian Skeptics the late Bob Nixon, reviews a farcical TV special about the paranormal, starring among others, Uri Geller. The TV Special, in 3 parts, can be found here. https://vhistory.wordpress.com/2014/08/26/beyond-belief-tape-1956 0:25:16 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Kat McLeod. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:37:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to 'Letters to the Editor'. 1984.11.17 - Sydney Morning Herald 1984.12.12 - Sydney Morning Herald 1984.12.18 - Sydney Morning Herald 1984.11.27 - Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders With a short tribute to skeptical journalist Jane Hansen. 00:04:12 Vale Mark Edward We are saddened to hear of the death in the past week of Mark Edward, skeptic, magician, mentalist, author and partner to Susan Gerbic. Tributes from Adrienne Hill and Susan Gerbic. Mark Edward Wilson, who was known by his stage name Mark Edward, died Sunday, August 4, 2024 at home after a year's long battle with prostate cancer. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/mark-wilson-obituary?id=55809128 0:17:14 Broken Breakthroughs From Power Balance to magnetic therapy, Richard Saunders reviews the history of recent 'quick fix' gizmos designed to improve your health and empty your wallet. 00:43:10 The Loons from Canada In part 2 of a 2 part series, Kate and Allie take a look at the phenomena of Access Consciousness and Access Bars. Who founded Access Consciousness and when? Learn the "Clearing Statement" that will improve all aspects of your life and discover the dark side of this so-called therapy. https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/critical-thinking/rasputin-phrenology-and-dark-allegations-madness-access-consciousness https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/access-consciousness-phrenology-fused-with-energy-medicine https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/access-consciousness-a-new-version-of-phrenology Also Dark Matter in the Pub, Saturday evening 24 August https://events.humanitix.com/dark-matter-in-the-pub-sydney/tickets

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:03:42 The Loons from Canada In part 1 of a 2 part series, Kate and Allie take a look at the phenomena of Access Consciousness and Access Bars. Part one: What is access consciousness and its "Ten Keys to Freedom" and how much does it cost? https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/critical-thinking/rasputin-phrenology-and-dark-allegations-madness-access-consciousness https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/access-consciousness-phrenology-fused-with-energy-medicine https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/access-consciousness-a-new-version-of-phrenology 0:21:34 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask people if they have a favourite sporting superstition. 0:29:44 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:42:20 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to superstition and sport. 1932.12.21 - The Advertiser - South Australia 1935.11.23 - The Daily Telegrath - Sydney 1995.10.13 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Australian Skeptics on the hunt for the DROP BEAR! https://youtu.be/ij5DM-vyBBk

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders Also a look at the current nominations and past winners of the Australian Skeptics Bent Spoon Award. https://www.skeptics.com.au/about/activities/bent-spoon 00:09:24 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod This week Kat gives us an overview of the first ever 'Global Skeptics in the Pub', held as part of the SkeptiCal Conferance of the Bay Area Skeptics. Included are the thoughts of the some of those who joined in. 0:18:16 Maynard's Spooky Action In this segement from a much longer interview, George Hrab from the Geologic Podcast chats to Maynard about his views on skeptical and critical thinking. George Hrab is a dancin' fool - The full interivew via Planet Maynard. https://maynard.com.au/george-hrab-terpsichore 0:00:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Fire Walking. 1994.02.07 - The Courier - Ballarat, Victoria 1994.02.20 - Herald Sun Sunday http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Dr. Karl Firewalking with Richard Saunders https://youtu.be/0oLNoqwPiKc Myth Busters Firewalking https://youtu.be/JibIlisE9uA Also Australian Skeptics on the hunt for the DROP BEAR! https://youtu.be/ij5DM-vyBBk

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:42 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Challenging Times By Barry Williams Over 20 years ago, one Victor Zammit, a retired Sydney solicitor, apparently decided to take the skeptics on at their own game and has issued a challenge of his own. "$1 Million Challenge to Disprove Evidence of Life After Death." - A reward of one million US dollars is offered to any skeptic anywhere in the world who can rebut and refute, beyond absolute, all the evidence for the existence of the afterlife. Tim is joined by Richard Saunders to discuss this bizarre challenge from almost 2 decades ago. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 21 No. 4 (2001) http://www.skeptics.com.au Media Watch TV, Astrology Story https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8FKJ9pcWCvw&t=796 0:37:06 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:47:38 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to 'Media Astrologers'. 1986.08.18 - The Sun Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Nominations for the Australian Skeptics Bent Spoon Awardhttps://www.skeptics.com.au/about/activities/bent-spoon

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:00 Astrology Trash is Bad News We report on a bizarre situation in Australia where it is proposed to run a regular astrology segment in the evening TV news bulletin. Is this an act of desperation to gain more viewers? What has been the reaction from other media? https://www.skynews.com.au/business/media/channel-7-defends-stupid-new-astrology-segment-following-scathing-criticism-over-addition-to-evening-news-bulletin/news-story/c42a2558c156dc5a7432ecfbd4faed2c https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/tv/current-affairs/channel-7-defends-controversial-news-segment-after-radio-hosts-takedown/news-story/5ae7fe3e1c5dd95117463d75f0f523ad 0:15:50 The Loons From Canada Kate and Allie get together to talk about some North American and Australian relationship slang as they explore the hypothesis of Love Languages. 0:28:08 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard and Richard catch up to talk about the upcoming global event, Skeptics in the pub, held all around the world on 19th of July at 7 pm. https://www.skepticalcon.com/global-skeptics-in-the-pub 0:34:46 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to James Randi and his expose of the Rev. Peter Popoff. 1988.02.20 - Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au The Secrets of the Psychics. Video https://youtu.be/Pc3uHqtH8bg&=677

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:06:52 Ben Radford talks UFOs Once again we welcome the world renowned skeptical investigator, author, podcaster, and deputy editor of Skeptical Inquirer magazine, the one and only Ben Radford. In a wide ranging interview Ben talks about the Roswell UFO incident, cryptozoology, and his upcoming visit to Sydney Australia to take part in Skepticon 2024 - the Australian Skeptics National Convention in November. 0:29:36 Australian Skeptics Newsletter #200 What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:44:36 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Roswell New Mexico UFO case of 1947. 1947.07.09 - The Glen Innes Examiner 1947.07.09 - The Newcastle Sun 1947.07.10 - The Advocate, Bernie Tasmania 1947.07.10 - The Sun, Sydney https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roswell_incident http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Global Skeptics in tne Pub https://www.skepticalcon.com/global-skeptics-in-the-pub Videos from the New Mexico Science and Reason https://m.youtube.com/@TheNMSR  

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:04:14 Cold and Hot Reading We play a clip of a recent radio appearance by Richard Saunders (ABC Australia), where he discusses so-called psychics and some of their tricks. Also the reading of a report by Ian Bryce, from the pages of 'The Skeptic', when he, Saunders and Alynda Brown tested a 'Palm Reader' in Australia. Richard Saunders on ABC Radio Australia. https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/overnights/ovn-skeptics/104010516 0:26:06 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to The New Age - Part #3. 1988.5.14 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:47:58 A Kate & Allie On a Roll?

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 00:05:02 You Can on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill. SkeptiCampNM - Presented by New Mexicans for Science and Reason Adrienne flies to Albuquerque, New Mexico to attend a meet up of local and regional skeptics. Interviews with... Stirling Forsyth, Mary Catherine Harris, Tom Parker, Kurly Tlapoyawa, Sonia Veronica, Frank T. Etscorn, and from the Squaring the Strange podcast Celestia Ward, Ben Radford and Pascual Romero. https://talesfromaztlantis.com 0:21:46 For Crying Out Loud! It's Kat McLeod. This week Kat takes a look at the pseudoscience of Grathology. James Randi investigates Grathology. https://youtu.be/iyXozHKWsDs 0:30:10 Skepticamp Interviews #4 Guest reporter Rob Palmer attended the inaugural Triangle SkeptiCamp that took place on 25th of May 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. In part #4 of a series of interviews from the event, Rob chats to the one and only powerhouse of Skeptical Activisim, Susan Gerbic. https://triskep.org/home/triangle-skepticamp-2024 0:40:44 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to The New Age - Part #2. 1988.5.14 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Richard Saunders on ABC Radio Australia. https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/overnights/ovn-skeptics/104010516

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:16 UFOs... Where Are You? We take a look at a recent press stories from Australia and Britin regarding UFO promoter and Australian journalist Ross Coulthart. Also we wonder what we can glean from Wiki about his current notoriety. https://www.skeptic.org.uk/2024/05/ufos-the-unidentified-flying-circus-comes-to-town 0:10:44 Skepticamp Interviews #3 Guest reporter Rob Palmer attended the inaugural Triangle SkeptiCamp that took place on 25th of May 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. In part #3 of a series of interviews from the event, Rob chats to Faith and Ramiro Rodriguez from the organisating team, as well has Melanie Trecek-King from Thinking is Power.https://triskep.org/home/triangle-skepticamp-2024 0:21:18 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Are Skeptics Happy? By Alison White Alison White asks if being a skeptic is a blessing or a bane... or even a curse. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 32 No. 3 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:34:30 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to The New Age - Part #1. 1988.5.14 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Global Skeptics in the Pub - 19 July 2024 (7pm) http://www.skepticalcon.com/global-skeptics-in-the-pub