The Skeptic Zone

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:09:00 Grain of Salt.... with Eran Segev In this, the first of a series of interviews from QED, Eran chats to the crew from the ESP podcast. András G Pintér, Hungary Jelena Levin, Latvia Pontus Böckman, Sweden http://theesp.eu https://qedcon.org 0:22:56 Natural cancer treatment: Patient turned down chemotherapy but 'nearly killed himself' GREG Melhuish turned to natural therapies to cure his cancer and it nearly killed him. That's the message he now wants to share in the hope it will save lives. By Jane Hansen. http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/greg-melhish-turned-down-chemotherapy-to-try-natural-remedy-but-nearly-killed-himself/news-story/cb06bc7d6370fc7068683c132b30777b 0:29:18 The Raw Skeptic Report... with Heidi Robertson Australia is full of animals that bite, sting, bite some more, scratch and even worse! But what's the truth of the matter? Will you die just walking down the street? Find out with Heidi! 0:40:00 NZ Skeptics Conference 2016 Queenstown, 2nd-4th December Amazing Speakers! NZ Skeptics have lined up some amazing speakers from the USA and Australia, as well as home grown talent from around New Zealand. Find out more with Brad MacClure. http://conference.skeptics.nz Also... Mars: The Live Experience http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=MARSLIVE16 Folding Australia 2016 Origami Convention https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/folding-australia-2016-origami-convention-tickets-26347133987 Vengaboys Tour with Maynard http://tinyurl.com/jfmlabp

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:33 More Good Thinking... with Michael Marshall The Good Thinking Society welcomed the decision by NHS Wirral CCG to decommission homeopathy and Iscador services. The decision comes after months of consultation which showed overwhelming support from the public for an end to funding. At QED 2016, in the Ockham Awards event/campaign shortlist, readers of the British version of 'The Skeptic Magazine' voted for The Good Thinking Society for their homeopathy in the NHS campaign. http://goodthinkingsociety.org/ https://qedcon.org/ 0:32:50 Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia issues position statement on anti-vaccine nurses and midwives On October 11 2016, the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia responded to a number of complaints regarding anti-vaccination material and advice being disseminated by registered nurses, enrolled nurses, and registered midwives, by publishing a new position statement on anti-vaccination misinformation: https://reasonablehank.com/2016/10/13/nursing-and-midwifery-board-of-australia-issues-position-statement-on-anti-vaccine-nurses-and-midwives/ 0:37:47 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews at "An Evening with Goldacre" in Sydney Robyn Willims from ABC radio's Science Show Signe Dean from SBS radio and Australian Skeptics http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/robyn-williams/2913842 http://nevertoocurious.com/ Also... NZ Skeptics Conference 2016 - Queenstown, 2nd-4th December http://conference.skeptics.nz

0:00:00 Introduction Maynard - Richard Saunders - Stefan Sojka 0:06:27 A Grain of Salt - With Eran Segev This week Eran looks at the increasingly bizarre chain of emails being send from anti-vaccine activist Judy Wilyman PhD. 0:28:37 The Cass Files - With Dr Cassandra Perryman What is Hypnosis? Does it work as claimed? You uses it? Find out with Dr Cassandra. 0:34:25 Prize Time The Memory Code by Lynne Kelly. Thanks to Allen & Unwin https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/general-books/popular-science/The-Memory-Code-Lynne-Kelly-9781760291327 0:37:00 Signe Dean What has the online reaction to the question of fluoride in the drinking water been in Australia? Signe reviews some of the more interesting comments. http://nevertoocurious.com 0:45:40 Short break with Maynard in the audiance 0:46:50 Maynard's Spooky Action... An interview with Dr Brad McKay. Anti-vax parents and a trip the Burning Man festival in the USA 1:00:44 Prize Time Suzi Jamil and Desh Amila from Think Inc. Tickets to see Dr Lisa Randall https://www.thinkinc.org.au/events/lisa/ 1:04:48 Take Stock - With Shelley Stocken Top 5 lesser known strange or dangerous complementary and alternative therapies. 0:14:50 Prize Time Pinball Science by Ian Graham. Thanks to Allen & Unwin https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/general-books/popular-science/Pinball-Science-Ian-Graham-9781760294243 1:16:20 Dr Stefan Sojka The new new-age internet filter.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders Also an update to the Vaxxed, Castlemaine Local and International Film Festival story. https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/tag/william-thompson 0:10:14 Dr Lynne Kelly The traditional Aboriginal memory technique that unlocks the secrets of Stonehenge, Easter Island and ancient monuments the world over. Lynne Kelly has discovered that a powerful memory technique used by the ancients can unlock the secrets of the Neolithic stone circles of Britain and Europe, the ancient Pueblo buildings in New Mexico and other prehistoric stone monuments across the world. http://www.lynnekelly.com.au/the-memory-code 0:16:12 Maynard's Spooky Action... OZ Paranormal and Spiritual Expo A skeptical road trip! Join Maynard, Jessica, Lara and Richard as they head off to the OZ Paranormal and Spiritual Expo. Interviews with... Peter Bowditch Peet Banks Alex Cayas PSY - Paranormal Ghost Hunters Larraine Cilia - pres. UFO and Paranormal Research Society Kerrie McGilvray - Crystal Bed Healings http://www.australianparanormalandspiritualexpo.com.au Also... Skeptic Zone LIVE - 6th October in Sydney https://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics/events/232095906/ NZ Skeptics Conference 2016 - Queenstown, 2nd-4th December http://conference.skeptics.n

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:07:00 Ben Goldacre Homeopathic hucksters. Nonsensical naturopaths. Anti-intellectual anti-vaxxers. Slippery statisticians. The 'journalists' daring to declare meats as critically carcinogenic. And let's not forget – let's not forget – fraudulent pharmaceutical firms. - We chat to Ben on the eve of his Australian and New Zealand tour. https://www.thinkinc.org.au/events/ben-goldacre 0:26:35 Take Stock with Shelley Stocken Doctor Google is at it again with millions of people seeking its advice. 0:35:11 Victorian film festival embroiled in anti-vax, social media trainwreck The Castlemaine Local and International Film Festival takes aim and shoots itself in the foot while putting its foot in its mouth. We find out why this festival is planning to screen an anti-vaccination film. https://reasonablehank.com/2016/09/20/victorian-film-festival-embroiled-in-anti-vaccination-social-media-trainwreck/ Also... Skeptic Zone LIVE - 6th October in Sydney https://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics/events/232095906/ Skeptics Dinner Meeting with Lyne Kelly - 24th September http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/11/sydney-dinner-sept-24-wisdom-of-the-ancients NZ Skeptics Conference 2016 - Queenstown, 2nd-4th December http://conference.skeptics.nz

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:35 Sharon Hill We talk to Sharon Hill about her web site 'Doubtful News' and look into the merits (or not) of Ghost Tours. Also... Bad Clowns? http://doubtfulnews.com 0:26:42 Anti-vaccine nurses and midwives A visit to the 'reasonable hank' blog and the reading of a list of anti-vax memes posted by the very people who should know better. https://reasonablehank.com/?s=Anti-vaccine+nurses 0:36:06 Bad Clowns and Loch Ness with Ben Radford Ben tells us more about the strange reports of' Bad Clowns running round and making trouble. Also news of the lastest photo from Loch Ness. http://benjaminradford.com Also... An evening with Dr Ben Goldacre – Think Inc. https://www.thinkinc.org.au/events/ben-goldacre Skeptic Zone LIVE - 6th October in Sydney https://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics/events/232095906/ Skeptics Dinner Meeting with Lyne Kelly - 24th September http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/11/sydney-dinner-sept-24-wisdom-of-the-ancients NZ Skeptics Conference 2016 - Queenstown, 2nd-4th December http://conference.skeptics.nz

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:07:30 Bad Science Watch in Canada We chat to Michael Kruse about so called Naturopathic Doctors in Canada thumbing their nose at the law. http://www.badsciencewatch.ca 0:29:30 Mind Body Wallet over the years Step back in time to 2002 and 1986 as we look at the Festival of Mind Body Spirit. The New Age never looked so old. 0:43:05 The Raw Skeptic Report This week Heidi Robertson has another report from the recent Brisbane Skepticamp. She chats to Mandy Noble about woo in the health industry. http://www.brisbaneskeptics.org Also... An evening with Dr Ben Goldacre – Think Inc. https://www.thinkinc.org.au/events/ben-goldacre Folding Australia 2016 Origami Convention https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/folding-australia-2016-origami-convention-tickets-26347133987 Skeptics Dinner Meeting with Lyne Kelly - 24th September http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/11/sydney-dinner-sept-24-wisdom-of-the-ancients

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:57 Dr Angie at Dragon Con We catch up with Dr Angie Mattke and ask her about the talk on alternative medicine she gave at the Skeptrack at Dragon Con in Atlanta. http://skeptics.dragoncon.org 0:19:12 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard and Richard head for the Australian Museum and chat to Rachel Robertson about teaching science via robots. http://australianmuseum.net.au/science-festival 0:25:32 The Raw Skeptic Report This week Heidi Robertson has another report from the recent Brisbane Skepticamp. She chats to Michelle Franklin from Darwin Skeptics about how her work looking at bio control. http://www.brisbaneskeptics.org 0:36:08 Maynard and the question of quantum At Sydney Skeptics in the pub, Maynard finds out wha the average pubber knows about the quantum world. Also a chat with Ian Bryce who does actually know! Also... The Blue Castle Podcast http://thebluecastle.libsyn.com Folding Australia 2016 Origami Convention https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/folding-australia-2016-origami-convention-tickets-26347133987 Skeptics Dinner Meeting with Lyne Kelly - 24th September http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/11/sydney-dinner-sept-24-wisdom-of-the-ancients

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders (and the skeptical cats) 0:05:20 Mother who posted video of her baby is bullied by anti-vaxxers online The mother who posted a heartbreaking video of her five-week-old baby choking for air after catching whooping cough has been bullied online by trolls who say "vaccination is what caused her baby to get sick". http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/babies/mother-who-posted-heartbreaking-video-of-her-baby-choking-is-bullied-by-antivaxxers-online/news-story/681691f600de9bbc499d2fa03fab55e7 0:12:43 The Raw Skeptic Report This week Heidi Robertson has another report from the recent Brisbane Skepticamp. She chats to Natalie Carrington about how language can be used to fight pseudoscience and woo. http://www.brisbaneskeptics.org 0:20:00 Chiro Board Responds to Skeptics Concerns Following the revelation of chiropractor Ian Rossborough's 'cracking' of an infant's spine on YouTube, Australian Skeptics and many members of the public and professionals expressed their outrage. http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/23/chiro-board-responds-to-skeptics-concerns/ http://www.ahpra.gov.au/registration/registers-of-practitioners.aspx 0:28:25 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard and Richard head for the Australian Museum to perfrom the Mystery Investigators show as part in Sceince Week. We also learn about crime scence investigatoin and chat to Margaret, Rory and Willow. http://australianmuseum.net.au/science-festival http://www.mysteryinvestigators.com

0:00:00 Introduction Heidi Robertson 0:02:07 The Raw Skeptic Report This week Heidi Robertson has another report from the recent Brisbane Skepticamp. She chats to Enrique Bustamante and learns about the real Dunning Kruger effect. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/dunning-kruger-effect-importance-self-awareness-enrique-rubio http://www.brisbaneskeptics.org 0:13:21 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard and Richard head for the Australian Museum to perfrom the Mystery Investigators show as part in Sceince Week. Maynard also chats to Catherine Beehag, the manager of the festival and Alison from the University of Technology. http://australianmuseum.net.au/science-festival http://www.mysteryinvestigators.com Also... Skeptics Dinner Meeting with Lyne Kelly - 24th September http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/11/sydney-dinner-sept-24-wisdom-of-the-ancients https://quirkologyblog.wordpress.com/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:08:50 Cupping and Wiki with Susan Gerbic We chat to Susan who tells us of her efforts to bring the Wiki page on the quackery of Cupping up-to-date. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cupping_therapy guerrillaskepticismonwikipedia.blogspot.com 0:19:45 Why Team USA's use of cupping therapy really sucks LIke all Australians, Dr Brad can get a bit carried away while cheering for the green and gold at the Olympics. But lately it hasn't been the Aussie team causing him to yell at the TV. - by Dr Brad McKay http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/why-team-usas-use-of-cupping-therapy-really-sucks/news-story/39e6da472eba56e564139cc17e38ee5b 0:24:20 Ken Harvey The Australian and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science has awarded Dr Ken Harvey the 2016 ANZAAS Medal. http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/09/anzaas-medal-for-ken-harvey 0:28:44 Take Stock with Shelley Stocken Our new reporter looks into the myths and reality of so-called Demonic Possession. http://mentalillnesspolicy.org/coping/demonic-possession-mental-illness.html 0:40:42 The Raw Skeptic Report This week Heidi Robertson reports from the recent Brisbane Skepticamp. Who goes to these events and why? Also an interview with a Curtis who works in an organic supermarket. http://www.brisbaneskeptics.org Also... Skeptics Dinner Meeting with Lyne Kelly - 24th September http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/11/sydney-dinner-sept-24-wisdom-of-the-ancients

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:44 Australia's Science Channel We chat to Dr Paul Willis, director of the Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) who tells of the new Science Channel and about his many trips to the Antarctic looking for fossils. http://riaus.tv 10:23 Campaign Against Homeopathy - Antarctic 2011 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQzOidQKafA Aurora Expeditions http://www.auroraexpeditions.com.au/ship/polar-pioneer 0:22:12 Chiropractor charged with breaching advertising requirements The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) has charged a New South Wales chiropractor with breaching advertising requirements, alleging his website advertised chiropractic services in a way that was likely to be false, misleading or deceptive. http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/08/02/chiropractor-charged-with-false-advertising/ 0:26:06 The Checkout and Pharmacy Woo ABC TV's 'The Checkout' recently ran a story critical of Australian Chemist shops that sell quackery. Included is an exert from the show and the reading of an open letter regarding Ear Candles. http://www.abc.net.au/tv/thecheckout/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTcLpY3MWPk 0:34:00 Sydney Skeptics in the Pub We ask the question, when should you give up trying to argue with a conspiracy theorist? http://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics Also... http://australianmuseum.net.au/event/super-science-saturday http://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:07:11 Fiona O'Leary and her VAXXing Issue We chat to Fiona about her work promoting autism issues in Ireland and the recent letter she received telling her to more or less hold her tongue! Why? Find out in this interview. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqSIfRTGC3XQ34mHUNICVLw http://ascienceenthusiast.com/vaxxed-makers-threaten-lawsuit-for-valid-criticism/ http://www.eveningecho.ie/cork-news/us-film-studio-threatens-to-sue-autism-rights-advocate/2500229/ http://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/us-film-studio-threatens-to-sue-autism-rights-advocate-412355.html https://www.change.org/p/ken-paxton-texas-attorney-general-stop-vaxxed-and-their-reckless-campaign http://www.skepticalraptor.com/skepticalraptorblog.php/vaxxed-distributor-threatened-fiona-oleary/ 0:24:32 Edinburgh Skeptics and the Fringe A trip to Scotland and a chat with Mark Pentler and Sean Slater from the Edinburgh Skeptics. What is coming up at the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival for skeptics to enjoy? Many things! http://www.edinburghskeptics.co.uk https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/doug-anthony-all-stars-daas-live-on-stage 0:41:52 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard finds himself on tour across Australia with the Totally 80's show. This week he invites some skeptics back stage! http://www.metropolistouring.com/ Also... Skeptics Sydney Dinner http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/06/13/sydney-dinner-6-august-how-to-make-skeptics-even-more-attractive/ Skeptics with a K http://www.merseysideskeptics.org.uk/podcasts/ Win for No Jab No Pay Law http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/no-jab-no-play-campaign-has-a-big-win-as-thousands-of-former-antivaxxers-immunise-their-children/news-story/3876c77770cceba83c54f47a42607fb1

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:55 The Raw Skeptic Report with Heidi Robertson Paleo and TV chef Pete Evans says sunscreen contains 'poisonous chemicals' This week Heidi looks at some of the claims made by a TV chef about sunscreen and more. Includes radio appearance by Dr Brad McKay. 0:27:55 Horror and Amazement as it's reviled Homeopathy is nothing more than sugar pills! World in SHOCK! A BRISBANE woman selling homeopathic vaccinations or boosters for diseases including whooping cough, polio, meningococcal and malaria has been found to be selling nothing but refined sugar. http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/brisbane-homeopath-cyena-caruana-selling-vaccinations-and-boosters-made-from-refined-sugar/news-story/30b8f3ca2944fbf7a4c634ac41a35341 0:42:15 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard finds himself on tour across Australia with the Totally 80's show. He asks some of the group if they indulge in superstitions or rituals before performing. http://www.metropolistouring.com/totally80s Ivan Doroschuk (Men Without Hats) - Safety Dance (Totally 80's) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVN-vXl2MPk Also... Makers of 'Vaxxed' Threaten Lawsuit Over Valid Criticism http://ascienceenthusiast.com/vaxxed-makers-threaten-lawsuit-for-valid-criticism/ Skeptics Sydney Dinner http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/06/13/sydney-dinner-6-august-how-to-make-skeptics-even-more-attractive/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:10 A call to ban veterinary surgeons from prescribing homeopathy as a treatment for animals We talk to Dr Danny Chambers about his petition in the UK to stop vets from selling usless sugar pills in place of real medicine for animals. https://www.change.org/p/the-royal-college-of-veterinary-surgeons-a-call-to-ban-veterinary-surgeons-from-prescribing-homeopathy-as-a-treatment-for-animals http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p040ty7g 0:27:52 ABC's Catalyst under review, reporter suspended after damning review on Wi-Fi program The ABC will apologise to its viewers and review its science program Catalyst after an independent investigation found a controversial episode on the potential health risks of Wi-Fi that went to air earlier this year breached its editorial standards. http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/abcs-catalyst-under-review-reporter-suspended-after-damning-review-on-wifi-program-20160705-gpz8ty.html 0:34:38 The Cass Files with Dr Cassandra Perryman What did Australia's top psychics predict for the year 2015? Cassandrea marks their homework. Will they get an A or an F? http://www.psychicdirectory.com.au/ 043:40 Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Won't someone save those poor spoons from being bent? http://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics/ Also... Skeptics Sydney Dinner http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/06/13/sydney-dinner-6-august-how-to-make-skeptics-even-more-attractive/ Totally 80's Australian Tour with Maynard http://www.metropolistouring.com/totally80s

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Maynard 0:07:05 Yes... But will it float? We talk to Dr Eugenie C. Scott about the new and very large ark just opened in Kentucky. https://ncse.com/ https://arkencounter.com/ 0:25:38 Freeman on the land - Shelley Stocken Shelly looks at a small but noisy movement that started in the US and Canada at the turn of the century, and has been simmering in Australia for about a decade. http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/true-stories/the-seriously-weird-beliefs-of-freemen-on-the-land/news-story/cd91441f8f406a48457d5450b0a264f9 0:35:43 Maynard's Spooky Action.. What podcasts are on Maynard's list? We ask and he tells! Find out what the goose listens to on those long drives and train trips. http://www.zenthinking.net/podcast/ http://thehighersidechats.com/ Maynard's 80s Tour http://www.metropolistouring.com/totally80s �

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:06:42 The Cass Files with Dr Cassandra Perryman Be mindful of mindfulness! Mind woo, colouring books and breathing! What?? Find out with Cassandra. 0:12:27 Sherlock Holmes..... the skeptic. From the classic 1940s Sherlock Holmes movies comes a clip that rings true to skeptical thinkers to this very day. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8p5pJtWgds 0:19:30 The case of the "fake gynaecologist" Simon Floreani, anti-vaccine chiropractor and former president of the Chiropractors' Association of Australia, has been named in court for referring one of his patients to a "fake gynaecologist". http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/06/30/chiropractor-floreani-embroiled-in-fake-gynaecologist-case/ 0:27:32 Homeopathy can kill pets and should be banned, say vets, as read by Lauren Cochrane followed by, Homeopathic Remedies No More Effective Than Placebo Sugar Pills, as read by Richard Saunders "http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/2016/06/24/homeopathy-can-kill-pets-and-should-be-banned-say-vets/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter http://www.medicaldaily.com/does-homeopathy-work-homeopathic-remedies-placebo-effect-sugar-pill-389214 And for the hell of it http://maynard.com.au/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders https://www.patreon.com/skepticzone 0:09:15 Michelle Franklin and ghosts? We catch up with Michelle from the Darwin Skeptics who tells us about her recent appearance on radio to give the skeptical point of view on a good old fashion ghost story. https://www.facebook.com/groups/darwinskeptics/ 0:22:00 The Raw Skeptic Report This week Heidi Robertson interviews Tracey from the Facebook group, 'Stop The Austrailian Vaccination Skeptics Network' (or SAVN). Find out what impact they have had via their untiring efforts. https://www.facebook.com/stopavn/ 0:37:44 Carl Sagan's Baloney Detection Kit Carl Sagan had a wonderful mind that was capable of cutting through all the noise and clearly communicating and inspiring millions. He may indeed be sadly missed, but his words and thoughts still echo loudly even today. http://www.skeptical-science.com/bullshit/detecting-bullshit-quick-refresher-carl-sagan/ 0:43:55 Dr Will Grant from CPAS Kevin Davies interviews Dr Will Grant, a lecturer, researcher and graduate studies convener at CPAS. Dr Grant's research and writing has focused on the intersection of society, politics and science, and how the relationships between these are changing with new technologies. http://www.canberraskeptics.org.au/ http://cpas.anu.edu.au/about-us/people/will-grant

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Stefan Sojka 0:09:15 Good Thinking with Michael Marshall NHS Liverpool CCG ends funding for homeopathy - The Good Thinking Society welcomed today's decision by NHS Liverpool CCG to decommission homeopathy services. The decision comes after months of public consultation which showed overwhelming support from Liverpool residents for an end to funding. http://goodthinkingsociety.org/the-good-thinking-society-welcomes-nhs-liverpool-ccgs-report-on-homeopathy-funding/ 0:30:52 The Cass Files with Dr Cassandra Perryman Meet our new reporter, Dr Cassandra who is a PhD in Psychology, specialising in research methods, analysis, and ethics. She's a bicoastal girl who talks to her cats, and reads way too much Pratchett, Gaiman, and Butcher. 0:36:33 Maynard's Spooky Action... Supanova 2016 Look out! It's Maynard and Tim Ferguson for a quick hello and a chance for Richard to thank Maynard for all his hard work. http://maynard.com.au 0:40:00 Labor scraps rebates for natural therapies Update... Taxpayers won't be subsidising them if Bill Shorten becomes prime minister. https://ajp.com.au/news/labor-slammed-planned-natural-therapies-rebate-cut/ 0:45:44 The Skeptics Guide to the Universe The SGU rouges drop by to wish the Skeptic Zone a happy 400th episode. http://www.theskepticsguide.org/podcast/sgu/571

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:09:18 Labor scraps rebates for natural therapies Taxpayers won't be subsidising them if Bill Shorten becomes prime minister. Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen announced on Friday that from July 1, 2017, taxpayer-funded private health insurance rebates would no longer be available for natural therapies. http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2016/06/10/labor-scraps-rebates-natural-therapies 0:12:10 The Good Thinking Society welcomes NHS Liverpool CCG's report on homeopathy funding Continued funding or end of funding to be decided on June 14. The Good Thinking Society welcomed a report from NHS Liverpool CCG on the subject of homeopathy, which showed overwhelming support from Liverpool residents for an end to funding. http://goodthinkingsociety.org/the-good-thinking-society-welcomes-nhs-liverpool-ccgs-report-on-homeopathy-funding/ 0:16:24 Does Naturopathy work? The truth about 'natural' medicine - Shelley Stocken Recent reports of a Sydney naturopath allegedly endangering the life of a baby; the son of a naturopath shunning radiotherapy for "alternative therapies"; and a disgraced Gold Coast doctor turning to naturopathy rather than maintaining her registration raise the question, what's the deal with naturopathy? http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/does-naturopathy-work-the-truth-about-natural-medicine/news-story/ebba033e2bad6801f736db1a9235cc9e 0:22:53 Dr Brad McKay on TV Dr Brad appears on TODAY Extra and calls out homeopathy for what it is! What do the viewers think? https://www.9now.com.au/today/2016/clip-cip8uo3fo000o0jo4cdezivrw/b86e4809-12aa-46c6-b558-62964b24b04a 0:31:46 Failed stockbroking firm consulting a psychic Glenn Rosewall, executive chairman of the failed stockbroking firm BBY, was consulting a psychic and 'vibrational healer' for at least 12 months prior to the firm's demise, according to sources. http://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/06/01/boss-of-failed-stockbroking-firm-sought-business-advice-from-pyschic/ 0:37:43 Threats of assault against Reasonable Hank Explicit and direct threats of physical assault towards the blogger uploaded to facebook. https://reasonablehank.com/2016/06/10/shawn-dhu-posts-video-threats-of-assault-against-reasonable-hank/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:09:18 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard at Paracon 2016 Part #2 High up in the Blue Mountains, Maynard goes looking for ghosts, aliens and the unknown... but instead finds... Sheryl Gottschall Delegates Calvin Von Crush 0:32:42 The Raw Skeptic Report Anti-vaccination activists crash immunisation seminar A public seminar on immunisation in Perth was forced to close early after anti-vaccination activists hijacked the event and called doctors liars. 0:48:15 Sydney Skeptics in the Pub This week we ask the big question, what would you think if we make contact with aliens?

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Maynard 0:04:05 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard at Paracon 2016 Part #1 High up in the Blue Mountains, Maynard goes looking for ghosts, aliens and the unknown... but instead finds... Richard Saunders Alex Cayas Beth Luscombe Part #2 next week 0:27:02 Media Guide to Skepticism With Sharon Hill To provide a clear, easy-to-read guide about the "Skeptical" viewpoint as subscribed to by many who might call themselves Skeptics or critical thinkers; to distinguish practical Skepticism from the popular use of the phrase "I'm skeptical," and from those who claim to be "skeptics" regarding some well-established conclusions (such as climate change). 0:40:30 Legal action against fake cancer sufferer Consumer Affairs Victoria is preparing to take legal action against fake cancer sufferer Belle Gibson following an in-depth investigation into alleged contraventions of Australian consumer law. 0:45:44 Skeptic Zone / Bunga Bunga Cross Over Maynard and Tim Ferguson confront Richard Saunders about... the Mars landings?

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:28 The Australian Sex Party We chat to Dr Meredith Doig to discover more about this political party and their strong stand on sceince and reason. 0:20:45 Dr Rachie Reports... with Dr Rachael Dunlop The vitamin and supplement industry is big business in Australia. An estimated 75% of the population use some form of complementary medicines, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, aromatherapy and homeopathic products. But some vitamin supplements and protein powders at best don't work and, at worst, can cause harm. 0:31:00 The Raw Skeptic Report This week Heidi Robertson with more news of Chiropractors allegedly caught sneaking into maternity wards to treat newborns.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:05 Employing Naturopaths in Chemists Comments on a report by Jane Hansen about the push to sell even more quackery in your local chemist shop. 0:15:20 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard and the Doctor Lindsay "The Doctor" McDougall is an Australian rock guitarist and radio presenter. Since 1996, he has been the lead guitarist in punk rock band, Frenzal Rhomb. What are his views on being skeptical? 0:25:18 Anti-vaccination PhD Details have come to light about the examiners' assessments of Judy Wilyman's anti-vaccination PhD thesis at the University of Wollongong, with "serious concerns" and "very critical" comments made about the anti-vaccination document that claims pro-vaccination conspiracies on a global scale.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders & Maynard 0:03:24 Choice Magazine Join Maynard, Tim Mendham and Richard Saunders as they head to the HQ of Choice Magazine and chat with Tom Godfrey. 0:22:13 Chiropractor Cracks Baby's Spine Yet more on the story that doctors condemn. A shocking video of a crying FOUR-DAY-OLD baby having her back cracked by a chiropractor has gone viral online. 0:33:00 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Conspiracy theories at Skeptics in the Pub Maynard looks behind the stinking curtain of conspiracy and chats to Dr Chris Fleming, Jessica Singer, Dr Brad McKay and Ian Bryce.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:41 Chiropractor Cracks Baby's Spine More on the story that doctors condemn. A shocking video of a crying FOUR-DAY-OLD baby having her back cracked by a chiropractor has gone viral online. 0:11:48 The Rotten Thread of Conspiracy Theories This week Australia stopped to remember the Port Arthur massacre of 1996. Sadly but predictably, conspiracy theories continue to dog the friends and family of those lost. 0:25:20 Vaxxed Amid World Immunisation Week, a film by a frontman for the anti-vaccination movement is being rolled out in US cinemas. From the Brisbane Times.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders and Maynard 0:05:05Maynard's Spooky Action.. At the Lawrence Leung ShowWe attend the new live show, "Very Strange Things" and chat to Eran Segev and Lawrence about magic, mentalism and being skeptical. 0:24:43The Raw Skeptic ReportThis week Heidi Robertson is live on the spot to bring us reports from the first Skeptic in the Pub in the Northern Rivers of NSW. 0:39:23Chiropractor Cracks Baby's SpineDoctors condemn shocking video of a crying FOUR-DAY-OLD baby having her back cracked by a chiropractor - because she is suffering from colic.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:06:55Lawrence LeungWe catch up with Australia's clown prince of skeptical fun and adventure to find out about his new live show, "Very Strange Things". 0:21:10The Raw Skeptic ReportThis week Heidi Robertson gives us her no nonsense report on Diphtheria. 0:36:18Maynard's Spooky Action.. Random interviews from a Skeptics' DinnerMaynard chats with Dr Mel Thomson from MelburneCassandra Perryman from BrisbaneWade Ness from BrisbaneTim Mendham from Sydney Includes A Walk In The Black Forestand a ride in the Skeptic Zone car.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:05:15Maynard's Spooky Action.. The evolution of antievolutionism.Maynard Interviews Dr Nick Matzke, a postdoctoral scientist at ANU, holding a Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) from the Australian Research Council.Includes A Walk In The Black Forest. 0:26:07Dr Rachie Reports... With Dr Rachael DunlopIn the past week, Dr Rachie appeared on the popular Sunrise TV show to talk about the case of parents who cannot agree on vacination. 0:31:25Gold Coast mother passed on whooping cough to baby after refusing vaccine.The mother, who has gone public in a video posted on the Gold Coast Health website to warn others, said she had refused the vaccine because she was a healthy “organic” kind of woman.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:06:25Paracon Australia 2016 - Alex CayasWe chat to the director of this spooky event and find out why skeptics should attend. 0:17:10NHMRC $3.3 MILLION ON WIND FARM RESEARCH – “MONEY DOWN THE DRAIN”?From Australian Skeptics 0:22:40Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard catches up with Ian Wolf from the long running Diffusion Science Radio Show. 0:38:22Anti-vaccination lobby flags High Court challenge to ‘no jab, no pay’Anti-vaccination activists are seeking funds to pay for a shot at overturning the government’s “no jab, no pay” policy in the High Court.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders Includes a tribute to Phyllis Saunders and the reading of an item by Steven W Thrasher, "Don't tell cancer patients what they could be doing to cure themselves" 0:12:27The Raw Skeptic ReportThis week Heidi Robertson with news about online memes and posters. 0:23:05Friends of Science in MedicineIntegrative medicine: more than the promotion of unproven treatments? 0:29:40Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard reports from the Podcasters Sydney meetup group.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:10:15Report : Update on Wilyman PhDA short update on the continuing controversy 0:14:14The Skeptic Magazine from Australian Skeptics What goodies await in the new issue of this long running journal. 0:18:50Chiropractic in QuestionWe look at some of the claims and practices of Gonstead Chiropractic. Also, are Chiros as qualified as GPs?

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:05:50Report : An Evening with Alan AldaAlan Alda was in Australia and gave a talk in Canberra about the importance of good science communication. 0:17:16Good Thinking Investigates: Peter PopoffGood Thinking has been investigating ‘faith healer’ Peter Popoff and his highly-lucrative current business of promising to heal sickness and cancel debts in exchange for ‘seed faith’, in other words: cash donations. 0:23:00Psychic Sunday in FairfieldRichard Saunders drops by a Psychic Fair to see if any psychics are on offer. 0:41:30Chiro Board says “toe the line” or elseThe Chiropractic Board of Australia, which regulates Australia’s 5000 chiropractors, has released a statement reinforcing that practitioners need to ensure their advertising complies with the requirements of the National Law, or they risk prosecution and disciplinary action.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:48The Raw Skeptic ReportThis week Heidi Robertson gives us her no nonsense report on Chicken Pox. 0:23:07Good Thinking Investigates: OsteopathyMany osteopaths claim to treat colic with cranial osteopathy – a therapy with no evidence of effectiveness.Following Good Thinking's recent investigation into similar claims made by chiropractors, they decided to find out what an osteopath would tell a distressed parent seeking advice… 0:31:42Anti Vax in the mediaChris Savage, noted anti-vaccination campaigner, has set up operations in Bali, offering intravenous magnesium injections to treat autism. 0:41:30Sydney Skeptics in the PubWhat do skeptics say to "Chemical Free" food?

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:20Holes in the PlotFrom science fiction fans to water dowsers, why do people work so hard to preserve their belief systems? In this talk, Richard Saunders looks at the thinking and mental gymnastics. 0:27:10Peter Bowditch - Vaccination in OberonA letter to the editor by long time skeptic, Peter 'Ratbags' Bowditch. 0:30:40Good Thinking Investigates: ChiropracticIn 2008, the British Chiropractic Association unsuccessfully sued science writer Simon Singh for highlighting that there is no reliable evidence that chiropractic can treat colic. Six years later, we wanted to find out whether chiropractors would still treat babies suffering from colic.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:03:50Wi-Fried?We look at the fallout from ABC TV's science show 'Catalyst' after its broadcast of a story that many see as nothing more than scaremongering. Included is the reaction from the Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) via their science channel. 0:22:40Homeopathic RadioWe join Michael Marshall from the Good Thinking Society in the UK has he appears on BBC radio to counter the strange statements from a local homeopathic G.P. 0:33:40Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo reports on why some parents in the north coast region of NSW are suspicious of vaccinations. Induced are quotes from our very own Heidi Robertson.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:05:36Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo reports on Biodynamic Gardening. WHAT? Find out with Jo. 0:17:54A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:21:04When a letter from Heaven ... isn't. "Letters from heaven": TV psychic Lillyanne sends almost identical readings to dozens of customers. A report with the help of Trish Hänn and James Randi.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:04Dr Phil PlaitWe catch up with Dr Plait and talk about the late astronaut Edgar Mitchelll as well as Pluto and UFOs. 0:27:06A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:31:27Anti-Vaxxers react to Mark ZuckerbergSome of the more extreme nastiness from the anti-science trolls. 0:34:35Sydney Skeptics in the PubAnother great evening in Sydney where we ask the big questions!

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:22Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo reports on the importance of being on the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry. 0:12:00Dr Richard WisemanWe catch up with Dr Wiseman who tells us about is very, very clever magic videos, a 'psychic' dog and the study of dreams. 0:38:35A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:24:20Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard interviews Dr Ken Harvery about his action against the Chiropractic board and ongoing investigations into quackery. 1:01:20The sad passing of Fred the Skeptic Zone cat.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:03:15Recollect: Health and MedicineRichard visits the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney and gets a guided tour by Tilly Boleyn and Frankie Lee of the history of medical devices. 0:41:00A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:44:10Psychic TV Australia Online threats are alleged to have been made against some of the 'psychics' on Psychic TV, a business promoting a 'dial a reading' service.

IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:03:17Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo has a message for Pauline Hanson who appeard on the 'Sunrise' TV program. 0:07:50A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:10:54Dr Rachie Reports... with Dr Rachael DunlopThis week, Dr Rachie reports on the University of Woolongong's decision to award a Ph.D for a thesis claiming that conspiracies are behind the Australian Immunisation Schedule. 0:23:40Bent Spoon for University of Wollongong? By Tim Mendham, read by Richard Saunders

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:08Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo reports on the horror that is Black Salve. A warning to everyone. 0:15:27Guest Reporter Kevin Davies from Canberra SkepticsKevin chats to Dr. Rachelle Duvall, Research Physical Scientist with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and U.S. Embassy Science Fellow. 0:20:13A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:23:18Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard interviews pub goers at Sydney Skeptics in the Pub. What are their predictions for 2016 and what do they think about New Year Resolutions?

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:03:16Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo reads from the AGE Newspaper. Chiropractors promoting anti-vaccination views despite rules. 0:11:00A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:13:50ReportQueensland childcare centres and the new vaccination laws. Report from Australian Skeptics. 0:18:18Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard interviews more people at the recent Australian Skeptics National Convention.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:02:00In conversation with Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki AMA chat with Australia's most trusted science communicator

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:50Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard interviews Jake Farr-Wharton, a guest presenter at the recent Austalian Skeptics National Convention. 0:22:50ReportAnti-vaxers taking posters and pamphlets promoting vaccination in hospitals and clinics. 0:28:36Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo reads a letter from the Friends of Science in Medicine. How can the government save health dollars? ---Merry Christmas--- ---Send Peanuts---

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:06:00The "ESP" PodcstAn interview with the movers and shakers of the European Skeptics Podcast - András Gábor Pintér, Jelena Levin and Pontus Böckman. 0:16:30Chickenpox outbreak at “tolerant” Victorian schoolReport from Australian Skeptics Inc.. 0:25:12A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:28:18Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub and chats with guest speaker Ross Balch about Viruses and other tiny things. 0:40:13Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo looks at so-called psychics with their so-called preditctions (cough.. guesses) for the coming year. Can Skeptics do any better?

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:50The SkepDocAn interview with Dr Harriet Hall about her new online video series on Science Based Medicine. 0:16:30The Raw Skeptic Report with Heidi RobertsonThis week Heidi looks at the facts and myths behind Meningococcal and interviews Marty who lost his legs to this disease. 0:34:35A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:38:48Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to find out what would make the best Christmas gift for a skeptic.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:12Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard intdrviews Dr Mel Thomson, an Infectious Disease Researcher at Deakin University in Geelong, Victoria, Australia. 0:23:25Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo looks into "cupping therapy", after it hit the media this week thanks to a rugby player and our friend Dr Brad McKay. 0:29:13A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:34:40Feeding TubeWe chat to Tamara Robertson, from the new web video series, 'The Feeding Tube'.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:05:00Good Thinking vs. HomeopatheyThis week Michael Marshall of the Good Thinking Society fills us in on the latest moves to rid the UK of the quackery of Homeopathy 0:28:00Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterJo reports on the case of a mother who was brave enough to share her child's plight with Whooping Cough. The reaction from the the anti-vax crowd was predictible. 0:35:05A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 0:40:07Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard chats with Joanne Benhamu, a Vice-President of Australian Skeptics and a Clinical Nurse Consultant who coordinates clinical trials in radiation oncology.

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:05:20The Raw Skeptic Report with Heidi RobertsonThis week Heidi updates us on the recent Australian Senate hearing into 'No Jab No Pay'. 0:10:10A Week in ScienceThe Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science. 013:44Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard with Vox Pops from Skeptics in the Pub in Sydney, including an interview with Dr Rachie and Dr Teresa Nicoletti. 0:38:50Evidence Please... with Jo AlabasterFrom the web site of Australian Skeptics, Jo reads a report on a recent award for Prof Edzard Ernst.