The Skeptic Zone

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:04 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Looking at the New Age part #1 The Arcturian Healing Method is a set of cosmic energies inspired by higher beings called Arcturians from the star system Arcturus. Brandi Kahn - Believes in Everything - Still not Psychic Video chat with Adrienne Hill and Susan Gerbic https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6JTNMx0juk 0:18:34 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Cancer Cures. 1933.06.17 - The Warwick Daily News - QLD 1942.06.17 - The Sun Sydney 1949.09.03 - The Argus - VIC 1987.08.10 - The Canberra Times 1994.03.21 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Skeptical Toolkit. With Kenny Biddle, Susan Gerbic and Richard Saunders. https://youtube.com/watch?v=LEKVTNNFee4 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #244 - 23.June.2013 Maynard's Spooky Action... Special guest this week is Wilson da Silva, the departing editor of Cosmos Magazine - A Week in Science - Sharon Hill - Cornered and Someone Wants to Tell Me Their Paranormal Story - Dr Rachie Reports. This week Dr Rachie chats about the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine with Dr David Hawkes from the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-244-23-june-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:18 Vale Dr Siobhan O'Sullivan We reflect on the life and legacy of Dr Siobhan O'Sullivan, podcaster, champion for the cause of animal welfare and, in the last years of her life, helping to spread the word on ovarian cancer. Siobhan was and remains an example of grace in the face of adversity. She will be sorely missed, and we extend our sympathies to her friends and family. Siobhan talks about her Ovarian Cancer on a ghost hunt with Maynard and Richard. https://youtu.be/ykB67Sj5cYs?t=1081 0:11:40 Susan Gerbic and the TikTok Quack Susan looks at the Wiki page views of a discredited so-called health care expert and how that same Wiki page is helping to educate people as to the real story behind the banning of this person from providing healh care and advice. https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_idz/video/7227154247962332442 0:23:16 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:37:16 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Water Divining. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #243 - 16.June.2013 From the pages of 'The Skeptic', a report from the Mitta Mitta Water Divining tests - Dr Rachie Reports. This week Dr Rachie reports on the recent court appearance of the Australian Vaccination Network - A Week in Science - Your Stars? What do the stars have in store for you? Find out more - Maynard's Spooky Action... Special guest this week is "Polyp", a radical political cartoonist, graphic novelist and Manchester UK skeptics member. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-243-16-june-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:28 Again with the UFOs We look at yet another "Any Day Now" (or ADN) story about UFOs. Yes, it appears that, once again, the lid is just about to be lifted and we'll all learn the truth about aliens visiting earth... again. Imagine the frequent flyer points! Story of Dramatic New "UFO Whistleblower" Begins to Crumble https://badufos.blogspot.com/2023/06/story-of-dramatic-new-ufo-whistleblower.html Mick West on NewsNation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDqfGkifPEA 0:15:10 More Local Skeptics in Action Susan Gerbic interviews Daniel Reed from the West Virginia Skeptic's Society. The West Virginia Skeptic's Society is a community of truth-seekers dedicated to promoting critical thinking and skepticism. Their mission is to explore the mysteries of the world around us, from the depths of the cosmos to the depths of the human psyche. They aim to engage in lively discussions, spark new ideas, and solve perplexing mysteries, all while promoting rationality and logical thinking. https://www.westvirginiaskepticssociety.com/ 0:26:08 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to NASA and UFOs. 1966.12.12 - The Canberra Times 1973.10.20 - The Canberra Times 1983.01.16 - The Canberra Times 1987.03.08 - The Canberra Times 1989.07.12 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Skepticon - Call For Papers https://skepticon.org.au/call-for-papers 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #242 - 8.June.2013 A chat with D.J. Grothe, president of the James Randi Educational Foundation - This week Dr Rachie appears on ABC radio to take call in questions about vaccination - A Week in Science Maynard's Spooky Action... Special guest this week is Dr Paul Willis from the Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus). Maynard also chats to people at Sydney Skeptics in the Pub https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-242-8-june-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:32 You Can Count on Adrienne Interview with Courtney Heard Courtney Heard is the host of the Q-Dropped Podcast, featuring stories of relationships torn apart by QAnon. She has been an active and outspoken member of the online atheist community since 2014, when she launched her blog, www.godlessmom.com. Born and raised secular in British Columbia, she has never been religious but has found the sudden increase of conspiratorial thinking in the mainstream discourse unsettling. She has dedicated much of her free time to telling the stories of people who have lost a loved one to QAnon because her own parents have been lost down the same rabbit hole. https://www.porthosmedia.net/qdropped 0:17:41 Local Skeptics Susan Gerbic chats to Greg Roe from the Santa Cruz County Skeptics, a group for science enthusiasts, critical thinkers, and skeptics in Santa Cruz County, California. They socialize, promote science and critical thinking in their community, host talks, and more. https://www.meetup.com/santa-cruz-county-skeptics https://www.facebook.com/groups/1419831232169981 0:23:06 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. Includes Adrienne's Canadian word of the week, "Kerfuffle". http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:33:44 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references about mysterious India. paper here http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Meet the ex-NYPD cop and private investigator who tracks down fraud psyhics https://youtu.be/2GHt018bMFQ 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #241 - 2.June.2013 A chat with Canberra Skeptics - A Week in Science - The Think Tank. Once again we head to our club at the end of the street to talk about issues of the day. Joining us this week are Joanne Benhamu, Dr Rachie and Eran Segev. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-241-2-june-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:22 Dinosaurs in San Francisco Join Dr Eugenie Scott and Richard Saunders as they inspect a new exibition of Sauropod Dinosaurs at the Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. The largest land animals that ever lived have arrived at the Academy! Get ready for a hot sauropod summer with life-size dinosaur models, hands-on interactives, and programs for junior paleontologists. https://www.calacademy.org/exhibits/the-worlds-largest-dinosaurs 0:13:36 Susan Gerbic in Berkeley Susan tells us of her YouTube series investigating so-called "Grief Vampires", otherwise known as con artists claiming to be able to contact the dead. Psychics Explained - Grief Vampire Edition https://www.youtube.com/@PsychicsExplained 0:25:58 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Mass Hysteria By Dr. Allen Christophers Students of the paranormal are familiar with claims of miraculous cures of disease where the improvement in condition is brought about by suggestion on the part of the healer. The other side of the coin is the situation where diseases are generated by a process of sugges- tion. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 1 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:16 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Lake Monsters. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #240 - 26.May.2013 A report from the Sunday Telegraph and 'Lateline' on the appalling behaviour of the Anti-Vax crowd - This week Dr Rachie appeared on The Project (Network 10) to talk about vaccination rates in Australia - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - Dr Rachie chats to Andy Lewis from the web site Quackometer - The tables are turned and Saunders ends up being interviewed, on Radio 2UE with Murray Wilton, about being a skeptic and his upcoming public talk in Canberra. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-240-26-may-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:12 You Can Count on Adrienne. Wiki UFOs #2 This week Adrienne takes a look at some of the many UFOs reports from the second half of the 20th century as recorded on Wikipedia. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_reported_UFO_sightings 0:19:56 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Includes the Canadian Word of the Week, "Skookum". Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:34:48 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian and Canadian newspapers on a search for references to "Ogopogo". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Susan Gerbic's talk in Berkeley https://baskeptics.org/hangouts 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #239 - 20.May.2013 Dr Rachie Reports with Dr Rachael Dunlop This week Dr Rachie interviews Sonya Pemberton about her upcoming documentary "Jabbed – Love, Fear and Vaccines" (Genepool Productions, 2013) - Mind Body Spirit May 2013 - A Week in Science with Dr Tania Meyer - Maynard chats to Timothy Short who is a specialist anaesthetist at Auckland City Hospital - Guildford's so-called House of Miracles. What is going on in the Sydney suburb of Guildford? Is someone from 'the other side' really trying to communicate by spattering oil on the walls of a house? Well... we don't think so. Reports from the last 6 years. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-239-20-may-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:46 Walking with Canadian Dinosaurs Join a merry band of skeptics as they wander the vast exhibits of one of the world's foremost natural history museums. Interviews with Vincent Stevens, Adrienne Hill, Celestia Ward and Lilith Thompson. The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology is Canada's only museum dedicated exclusively to the study of ancient life. In addition to featuring one of the world's largest displays of dinosaurs, it offers a wide variety of creative, fun, and educational programs that bring the prehistoric past to life. https://tyrrellmuseum.com 0:23:00 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Alien Honeycomb Tested By Mark Plummer A report about the time skeptics examined what was claimed to be an alien artefact, possibly part of a UFO! A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 1 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:31:58 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to The Fox Sisters http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #238 - 12.May.2013 Dr Rachie reports on what our state (New South Wales) politicians, on both sides, have to say about the Australian Vaccination Network - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - Maynard chats to John Flansburgh from They Might Be Giants https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-238-12-may-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders with Adrienne Hill and Celestia Ward We Can Reason! Our trio talk about being part of this conference in Calgary, Canada. 0:03:44 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:10:48 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Skeptical Investigations Tim chats to Richard Saunders about the skeptical investigations carried out by Australian Skeptics over the past 40 yesrs. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:17:06 UFO Car Wash Richard Saunders joins podcaster and film maker Brian Dunning in a car wash to talk about the upcoming documentary "The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You To See". http://theufo.movie 0:22:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Harry Houdini. 1925.02.02 - Mudgee and North West Reparative 1927.01.08 - The Evening News Rockhamption - QLD 1933.03.22 - The Evening News Rockhamption - QLD 1933.04.29 - Western Star and Advertiser - QLD http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #237 - 4.May.2013 A chat with Dr Colin Wright. Maths is more than numbers! Find out how you can take part in Maths Jam - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-237-4-may-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:12 You Can Count on Adrienne An interview with Abhijit Chanda from India, host of the "Rationable" Podcast and skeptical activist. One of Abhijit's skeptical interests is the alternative medicine known as Ayurveda or Ayurvedic. This is a system of traditional medicine native to India, which uses a range of treatments, including panchakarma ('five actions'), yoga, massage, acupuncture and herbal medicine, that claims to encourage health and wellbeing. Abhijit also talks about palm reading in India. https://www.berationable.com 0:20:40 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham SKEPTICS TEST PSYCHIC SURGEON By Mark Plummer When a small paragraph advertisement in "The Age" on January 3rd 1981 stated that an English medium-psychic surgeon would be commencing practice in Melbourne the Australian Skeptics swung into action. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 1 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:30:16 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Fairies. 1920.12.04 - The Maitland Weekly Mercury 1921.01.15 - The Daily Telegraph - Sydney 1922.12.09 - The Daily Mail - Brisbane 1983.03.21 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #236 - 27.April.2013 A chat with Deborah Hyde, editor of The Skeptic magazine (UK). Vampires and more vampires! Move over Buffy as Deborah tells all about the creatures of the night - A Week in Science with Dr Tania Meyer - Dr Rachie Reports with Dr Rachael Dunlop. From QED in Manchester, Dr Rachie chats to ex-cop Stevyn Colgan about problem solving - Maynard interviews Scott Bartle about his concerns with government. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-236-27-april-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:30 You Can Count on Adrienne. Wiki UFOs This week Adrienne takes a look at some of the many UFOs reports from the first half of the 20th century as recorded on Wikipedia. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_reported_UFO_sightings 0:17:11 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:30:48 Vale Rex Gilroy One of Australia's all time great characters from the world of cryptozoology has died. We look back at some of the media reports about Rex and his decades long search for mysterious animals. Maynard interviews Rex Gilroy for the Skeptic Zone. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-291-16may2014 0:42:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. 1922.05.08 - The Daily Telegraph - Sydney 1923.06.05 - Singleton Argus 1928.07.21 - The Register - SA 1930.07.07 - The Daily Pictorial - Sydney 1930.07.12 - Northern Star - Lismore 1930.07.29 - Border Watch - SA http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #235 - 20.April.2013 Richard Saunders in Olomouc, the Czech Republic - A chat with Jakub Ráliš from the AFO48 Festival. What is AFO? Find out this long running festival - The Enemies of Reason - at AFO48 Richard Saunders introduces the film by Dr. Richard Dawkins - A quick chat with Rebecca Watson Rebecca was also a guest of the festival. - The winner of the international science film competition at AFO48. Jury member Bechara Saab annouces the winning film, The Grammar of Happiness. Other jury members were Irina Belykh and Richard Saunders - QED in Manchester. A chat with Michael Marshall and Geoff Whelan and many other people at QED - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - Maynard interviews James Owen Weatherall about his book, 'The Physics of Wall Street'. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-235-20-april-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:06 Adrienne Hill on the High Seas During a recent visit to the Skeptic Zone studios, Adrienne spoke to Richard Saunders about her voyage from Sydney to New Zealand. What magical thinking and woo did she find on board the vessel? Find out as Adrienne recounts tales of the high seas. 0:24:42 Saunders talks Skeptics in the Pub In 2006, Richard Saunders appeared on Sydney radio to chat with Glenn Wheeler about being a skeptic, TV Psychics and Sydney Skeptics in the Pub. Not much has changed in almost 20 years. http://www.meetup.com/austskeptics 0:37:46 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers where we find a whole page devoted to the paranormal. 1941.02.14 - The Guardian - Perth WA http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also WeCanReason Western Canadian Reason Conference May 5-6 2023 (With guest Richard Saunders live on stage) https://wecanreason.com 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #234 - 13.April.2013 A chat with Leisha Camden from the Norway Skeptics. What is her view of the state of science, reason and education in Norway? - An Irish Adventure. A stroll in the park with Fionnuala Murphy from the Irish Skeptics and then a visit to a real Irish pub... complete with singing! - QED in Manchester. First day of QED. Richard Saunders and Dr Rachie feed a goose? - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - The Think Tank - USA. Join Travis Roy, Steve Lunquist, Andrew Handsford and Dale Roy as they chat about the recent NEXUS conference, TAM USA, conspiracy theories and.... popcorn? https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-234-13-april-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:16 New Zealand Skeptics' $100,000 Challenge We talk to Craig Shearer, the chair of the New Zealand Skeptics, about the organisation's $100,000 challenge. Can psychics and their ilk in New Zealand live up to their claims? If so, they can collect the large cash reward. http://skeptics.nz 0:19:54 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill in tne Skeptic Zone studio. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:28:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Fisher's Ghost". 1925.02.20 - The Herald - Melbourne Vic 1925.09.24 - The Evening News - Rockhampton Qld 1927.03.09 - The Kiama Reporter and Illawarra Journal 1948.09.27 - Tweed Daily 1897.01.30 - Australian Town and Country Journal http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #233 - 6.April.2013 A chat with Marit Simonsen and Kristin Carlsson in Oslo. Walking in the snow or visiting skeptics in the pub, Oslo has something for everyone! - An update with Ian Bryce on the operation to restore sight to a blind dog... thank you science! - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - Maynard's Spooky Action. He's back in Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask the BIG question. Should you tell kids about the Easter Bunny? - "Tesseracts" by Neal A. Yeager https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-233-6-april-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:06 An Interview with Kenny Biddle Kenny Biddle is a science enthusiast who investigates claims of paranormal experiences, equipment, photos, and video. He promotes science, critical thinking, and skepticism through his blog I Am Kenny Biddle. He frequently hosts workshops on how to deconstruct and explain paranormal photography. Richard Saunders on Kenny Biddle's show https://www.youtube.com/live/4HiK8LiX0fQ 0:18:17 The Skeptic Magazine We review, take a peek inside, examine, and generally look at the latest issue of the Skeptic Magazine, the Journal from Australian Skeptics. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:26:24 Ian Bryce and Paranormal Investigations from 1988 In a rare recording from decades ago, we discovered Australian Skeptics were investigating Wayback in 1988. 0:41:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Ghosts. 1980.04.01 - The Bulletin 1904.12.02 - The Blue Mountains Gazette http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #232 - 30.March.2013 A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - The Think Tank - Join Dr Rachie and Richard Saunders and an A380?? https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-232-30-march-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Adrienne Hill 0:02:32 Maynard's Spooky Action It's back to Sydney Skeptics in the Pub where Maynard interviews Adrienne Hill. Maynard also asks pubbers the big question, "Are the old fashioned skeptical topics still relevant to today's skeptical movment?" https://www.meetup.com/Austskeptics 0:28:50 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:41:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the paranormal. 1946.10.12 - The World's News 1950.10.09 - Worker 1947.09.18 - The Age http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #231 - 23.March.2013 Dr Steve Novella from the SGU Podcast Richard Saunders chats to Dr Novella about his podcast and other skeptical adventures - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - inFact with Brian Dunning - Guest Editorial with Ben Radford. Astral Projection: Just a Mind Trip. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-231-23-march-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:06 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill WikiProject Folklore With the help Richard Saunders, Adrienne takes a look at the top ten list of topics at "WikiProject Folklore", which states, "Founded in 2018, the WikiProject's goal is simple: to improve Wikipedia's coverage of folklore-related topics by identifying and employing sources from folklore studies. Members build relevant articles that meet Wikipedia's reliable source criteria, develop categories and templates, and work to improve pre-existing problem articles that fall within the scope of the project. " https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Folklore https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Folklore/Popular_pages WikiProject Report, Special:FAQs https://Wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Wikipedia_Signpost/2013-04-01/WikiProject_report 0:26:18 The Teachings of Carlos A look at some of the pages from the book "The Teachings of Carlos" from the great Carlos Hoax by James Randi in 1988. This book of nonsense was written by Randi and used as part of the press kit for the channeler Jose Alvarez (in reality Randi's companion Deyvi Pena) as part of the "60 Minutes" Australia hoax. The Teachings of Carlos - "60 Minutes" Australia TV Report from 1988 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qN54PDwNa6s 0:41:52 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Therapeutic Touch". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #230 - 16.March.2013 The Mighty Mitta Muster Water Divining Test 2013. Join Richard Saunders and a host of skeptics and diviners on the old Mitta Mitta tennis court for a major test of water divining - Diviners' Intervention. Written and performed by Jim Wilshire - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - Academia Film Olomouc. More infromation about the festival in the Czech Republic. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-230-16-march-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:00 Nostradamus in Print A chance find of a newspaper clipping in a Berkeley book store leads to Richard Saunders ordering a long forgotten publication from 1983, "The Untold Story - Nostradamus' Unpublished Prophecies". 0:27:26 Nostradamus on TV A trip back to 1979 and 1989 to look at the documentaries produced by the Seven Network in Australia, "The Prophecies of Nostradamus". A case study in how myths and assertions can be presented as fact. https://archive.org/details/the-prophecies-of-nostradamus-1979 0:42:10 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:54:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Nostradamus. 1949.04.22 - Balonne Beacon - QLD 1973.01.04 - The Canberra Times 1941.07.24 - The Advocate - Melbourne 1979.11.14 - The Canberra Times 1938.09.28 - The Kadina and Wallaroo Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #229 - 10.March.2013 Maynard's Spooky Action.. Look out for Pirates! Maynard talks to Simon Frew from Pirate Party Australia - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - Academia Film Olomouc. A quick chat about the festival in the Czech Republic. - Dr Rachie Reports A report from Radio 2SER about vaccination featuring Dr Racie - Sydney Skeptics in the Pub. We chat to pubbers and ask the big questions... Do you think human society on the whole will ever turn to science and reason and if so, how long will it take? https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/webpage/the-skeptic-zone-229-9-march-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:48 Planets In View Richard Saunders travels to the Chabot Space & Science Center to meet up with Leonard Tramiel. Together they gaze, in broad daylight, at the planets Venus and Jupiter. https://chabotspace.org 0:13:12 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill An interview with Jonathan Jarry Jonathan is a science communicator for McGill University's Office for Science and Society, or the OSS, and the co-host of the award-winning Body of Evidence podcast. He is frequently quoted in local, national and international media on issues of science and pseudoscience and is a regular on CTV Montreal News. His subversive video about a fake cancer cure went viral and reminded over 14 million people to be skeptical. Johnathan has been interviewed on the Skeptic Zone before on episode #569 in 2019 about the dangers of ear candling. This is an edited version of the interview. To hear the interview in full, use this YouTube link. https://youtube.com/watch?v=byDSjyTSkWk https://www.mcgill.ca/oss https://www.jonathanjarry.com http://twitter.com/crackedscience 0:29:24 Mythical Horses and Ring-a-Ring-a-Roses A wonderful side excursion to Fairyland, an adventure playground for children, in Oakland California. Dr Eugenie Scott looks at some of the mythical creatures and nursery rhymes. https://fairyland.org 0:38:12 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to superstitions. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #228 - 3.Mar.2013 We talk to Sharon Hill about her web site 'Doubtful News' - Dr Rachie Reports. The lastest goings on with those wacky folks at the Australian Anti-Vaccination Network - Project DropFox. An interview with Trent Brusky from DropFox, a web site giving back to the skeptical community - A Week in Science with Dr Paul Willis - Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard jumps into his time machine to continue interview from the Australian Skeptics Convention, 2012 https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-228-3-march-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Susan Gerbic 0:01:38 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill WikiProject Alternative Medicine With the help Richard Saunders, Adrienne takes a look at the top ten list of topics at "WikiProject Alternative Medicine", which states, "This WikiProject aims primarily to facilitate the development of professional articles on all aspects of complementary, alternative and integrative medicine. The scope of this WikiProject will be referred to throughout our project pages simply as CAM (complementary and alternative medicine)." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Alternative_medicine https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Alternative_medicine/Popular_pages WikiProject Report, Special:FAQs https://Wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Wikipedia_Signpost/2013-04-01/WikiProject_report 0:25:04 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:30 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Fake Cures". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #227 - 23.Feb.2013 Water Divining Preview We talk to Laurie Smith about the upcoming water divining tests in Mitta Mitta - Maynard's Spooky Action.. An interview with Simon Taylor, an Australian comedian and Hollywood writer. ... He writes for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and much more - The Think Tank. Join Jo Benhamu, Eran Segev, Guy Segev and Richard Saunders for skeptical talk of skeptical issues https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-227-23-feb-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:28 Brian Dunning - The Dangers of Film Making We catch up with Skepoid Podcast host Brain Dunning who tells us of his unpleasant experience with hypothermia while filming his new documentary The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You to See This interview was record in Bend, Orgeon. http://www.theufo.movie 0:19:14 A Tribute to Dr Harriet Hall Susan Gerbic reads her touching tribute to our late friend and tireless campaigner against quackery. This item was originally posted in the Skeptical Inquirer online. https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/harriet-hall-from-passive-skeptic-to-movement-juggernaut/ 0:33:04 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around By Tim Mendham A delusion is a belief that is clearly false and that indicates an abnormality in the affected person's content of thought. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 40 No. 2 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:40:54 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Canberra Skeptics. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #226 - 16.Feb.2013 SOAP! An interview with Dr Krissy Wilson about talking how to get into SOAP or the Science of Anomalistic Phenomena - Maynard's Spooky Action.. Science in the Pub - Join Maynard in Newcastle for Science and beer! - A Chat with Dr Paul Willis. What's the latest inside news about the end of the dinosaurs? Let's ask Dr Paul Willis from the Royal Institution of Australia. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-226-16-feb-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:10 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Skeptical Workshops Online Susan Gerbic tells Adrienne of two-hour interactive workshops held over Zoom. These workshops use case studies to practice interactions with people to have more respectful and productive conversations about odd things. The main goal is to become the person that people come to when they have questions about weird things. There are a series of workshop topics that can be customized for your group. https://www.facebook.com/GSoWproject for more information. 0:19:24 Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month We catch up with Dr Siobhan O'Sullivan for an update on her journey with ovarian cancer. Siobhan O'Sullivan is an Australian political scientist and political theorist who is currently an associate professor in the School of Social Sciences, University of New South Wales. Her research has focused, among other things, on animal welfare policy and the welfare state. https://www.ocrf.com.au 0:30:48 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:44:34 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Tics and Tac-Tics #2 By Tim Mendham A look at some of the strange superstitions that sporting people from around the world use to put their minds at ease before the big game. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 42 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #225 - 10.Feb.2013 Penny Chan and Hong Kong. Did she discover any 'Woo'? - AN HONEST LIAR - The Amazing Randi Story - Maynard's Spooky Action.. A chat with Ben Newsome, Director of the science outreach program, Fizzics Education - Science shows & educational products with real WOW factor! - Maynard at Skeptics in the Pub. And the big question this month is... "What do you think intuition is?" https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-225-10-feb-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:10 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill WikiProject Cryptozoology With the help Richard Saunders, Adrienne takes a look at the top ten list of topics at "WikiProject Crypozoology", which is "a group dedicated to improving Wikipedia's coverage of articles related to cryptozoology, a pseudoscience and subculture. The goal of this WikiProject is to improve coverage of cryptozoology on English Wikipedia. This project covers notable figures and topics related to the subculture, its history, geographical diffusion, and related places and people. We will specifically deal with all articles contained in the Category:Cryptozoology and its subcategories." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Cryptozoology https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Cryptozoology/Popular_pages WikiProject Report, Special:FAQs https://Wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Wikipedia_Signpost/2013-04-01/WikiProject_report 0:27:29 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Tics and Tac-Tics #1 By Tim Mendham A look at some of the strange superstitions that sporting people from around the world use to put their minds at ease before the big game. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 42 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:30 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Iridology". 1934.02.22 - The Herald Melbourne 1940.05.26 - The Daily Telegraph 1992.04.14 - The Port Lincoln Times - SA 1998.09.30 - The Riverine Herald - Vic http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #224 - 3.Feb.2013 Maynard's Spooky Action.. An interview with Robert Llewellyn from TV's Red Dwarf - Report from the pages of 'The Skeptic', 'Do it Yourself' - Getting the skeptical message across through the mainstream media can be an uphill battle. So why not create your own? - A chat with Dr Meredith Doig, president of 'The Rationalist Society of Australia https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/-the-skeptic-zone-224-3-feb-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:00 Conspiracy Leaflet in my Letterbox. From the One World Government to COVID-19 to H.A.A.R.P and much more besides. We examine a small leaflet that's been left in the letterboxes around Sydney suburbs. 0:21:02 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:33:34 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham A review of an important book in the history of Australian Skeptics. Creationism: An Australian Perspective Edited by Martin Bridgstock and Ken Smith Australian Skeptics https://tinyurl.com/CreationismAustSkeptics A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 40 No. 3 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:43:44 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Australian Skeptics National Convention in 1990. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #223 - 26.Jan.2013 Interview with Dr Pamela Gay - Dr Rachie Reports. Just what is 'fair balance' and how does it relate to skeptical issues? - Maynard's Spooky Action.. Maynard visits Embiggen Books in Melbourne and chats to Warren Bonett https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-223-26-jan-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:08 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill WikiProject Skeptical With the help Richard Saunders, Adrienne takes a look at the top ten list of topics at "WikiProject Skeptical", which is "dedicated to creating, improving, and monitoring articles related to Scientific skepticism (British English spelling: scepticism), also known as rational skepticism or skeptical inquiry. The focus includes articles about claims which are contrary to the current body of scientific evidence, or which involve the paranormal. The project ensures that these articles are written from a neutral point of view, and do not put forward invalid claims as truth." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Skepticism https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Skepticism/Popular_pages WikiProject Report, Special:FAQs https://Wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Wikipedia_Signpost/2013-04-01/WikiProject_report 0:28:12 ChatGPT on Skeptical Topics Another trip down the rabbit hole of Artificial Intelligence as we seek answers from ChatGTP on skeptical topics including Psychics, Bigfoot, Spoon Bending, Homeopathy, Ghosts, Astrology and Palmistry. 0:40:19 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Creationism". The Mercury - 18 Feb 1933 The Canberra Times - 29 March 1984 The Canberra Times - 6 Jan 1986 Woroni - 9 Sept 1985 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #222 - 21.Jan.2013 Maynard's Spooky Action.. An interview with Dr Krissy Wilson about talking to the dead - Danger 5. Just for fun, Richard Saunders checks in with Maynard as he hosts a public Q & A with the cast of this Australian TV show - Skeptical BBQ. Richard Saunders travels to Canberra for a screening of "Here be Dragons" by Brian Dunning and enjoys a chat with Kevin Davies, the president of Canberra Skeptics - The Think Tank. Join a host of Canberra Skeptics as they chat about Conspiracy Theories. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-222-21-jan-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:22 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Vale 'SkepDoc' Dr Harriet Hall MD Adrienne pays tribute to Harriet, who was a retired family physician, former U.S. Air Force flight surgeon, author, science communicator and skeptic of international acclaim, who wrote about alternative medicine and quackery for magazines and articles discussing evidence-based medicine for the Science-Based Medicine blog. She usually wrote under her own name or used the pseudonym "The SkepDoc". She was also a frequent speaker at science and skepticism related conventions in the US and around the world. https://tinyurl.com/skepdocseries https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/size/5/?search=Harriet 0:17:42 Sydney Skeptics in the Pub At long last Sydney Skeptics in the pub is back and looking forward to 2023. We hear from new pubber Stephen Bavaro, who was a recent speaker at the Australian Skeptics convention. Also from Tim Mendham and Richard Saunders as they address the crowd to talk about the Bent Spoon Award and more. 0:32:00 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:40:28 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Medical Quackery". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also https://pintofscience.com.au/eoi 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #222 - 21.Jan.2013 Maynard's Spooky Action.. An interview with Dr Krissy Wilson about talking to the dead - Danger 5. Just for fun, Richard Saunders checks in with Maynard as he hosts a public Q & A with the cast of this Australian TV show - Skeptical BBQ. Richard Saunders travels to Canberra for a screening of "Here be Dragons" by Brian Dunning and enjoys a chat with Kevin Davies, the president of Canberra Skeptics - The Think Tank. Join a host of Canberra Skeptics as they chat about Conspiracy Theories. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-222-21-jan-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:06 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill WikiProject Paranormal With the help of Rob Palmer and Richard Saunders, Adrienne takes a look at the top ten list of topics at "WikiProject Paranormal", which "aims to provide a framework for the improvement and organisation of articles related to the paranormal, anomalous phenomena and other similar areas." https://Wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Paranormal https://Wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiProject_Paranormal/Popular_pages WikiProject Report, Special:FAQs https://Wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Wikipedia_Signpost/2013-04-01/WikiProject_report 0:24:36 A new book from Susan Gerbic In this interview, Susan tell us of the book she is writing about so-called "Grief Vampires", people who prey on grieving and vulnerable people by apparently receiving messages from their dead loved ones. 0:37:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Amoung the Witches of Suburbia". The Canberra Times - 30 August 1987 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wicca http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #221 - 13.Jan.2013 Maynard interviews with Brain Dunning about WORMS!.. and other monsters - Dr Rachie appears on the national TV show, 'The Project'. This time she comments on the anti-vaccination book "Melanie's Marvellous Measles" - The Think Tank. Join Dianne, Dr Rachie, Jo Benhamu, Eran Segev and Richard Saunders as they chat about skeptical news and events. https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-221-12-jan-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:00 Pseudo Archaeology An interview with Stephen Bavaro, a student and contributor to the Skeptic Magazine. His interest is in real archaeology versus pseudo archaeology. 0:17:36 The Skeptic Zone in Review From January to December, 2022 was full of surprises, interesting reports and interviews on The Skeptic Zone Podcast. Richard Saunders takes a look at some of the highlights of the past year. 0:27:44 Evidence Please... with Jo Alabaster In this classic report from 2015, Jo looks into "cupping therapy", a sure way to gain bruises on your back but little else. 0:34:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "New Year Predictions". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #220 - 6.Jan.2013 Maynard interviews with James Randi - Dr Rachael Dunlop. The AVN and Google - Maynard in the Pub! Sydney Skeptics in the Pub give Maynard their predictions for 2013 https://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-220-6-jan-2013

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:54 Dr Eugenie Scott - Part #2 In part two of a two part interview with Dr Eugenie Scott, we look at the lamentable so-called documentary series on Netflix entitled "Ancient Apocalypse". Also we hear about Eugenie's thoughts on debating creationists and other pseudoscientists. 0:24:32 Dog ate my... what? Adrienne from very cold Calgary gives a report on a humorous but potentially serious mini labradoodle adventure that resulted in a vet visit, leading her to investigate nutritional trends for pets. She enlisted the help of the Triangle Area Skeptics member Faith Newsome Rodriguez, from Raleigh, North Carolina, whom she had the pleasure of staying with when she was on tour with Susan Gerbic of GSoW fame. 0:42:07 A Dive into a Trove Funding for Trove under threat! We read a report about the possible discontinuation of this valuable resource. With thanks to listener Daryl Colquhoun. A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to San Francisco and the paranormal. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Merry?? (sort of) Xmas from Maynard. Bah Humbug!

The Skeptic Zone #741 - 18 December 2022 Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:16 Dr Eugenie Scott - Part #1 In part one of a two part interview with Dr Eugenie Scott, we look at the ongoing battle against intelligent design, or creationism as it's truly known, and science. Eugenie also looks at the encroaching creationism and religious point of view into the public school system. 0:21:11 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:38:50 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Crystal Power". 1992.02.25 - Port Lincoln Times 1989.04.11 - Tharunka http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:07:56 ChatGPT What can AI tell us about a skeptical podcast from Australia, Brian Dunning's movie, why people believe in UFOs, and the Skeptical Fairy Godmother Angel from the Internet? 0:00:00 The European Skeptics in Sydney A relaxed chat around the table with the European Skeptics Podcast crew who were in Sydney as part of their Australian tour. 0:36:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Erich von Daniken". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Adrienne Hill 0:03:02 Skepticon 2020 Tim Mendham phones in his report from the first day of the Australian Skeptics National Convention, including the winnner of the Bent Spoon Award. 0:07:54 A chat with Andras Pinter During a recent visit to Sydney, Andras Pinter from the ESP, European Skeptics Podcast, spoke with Richard Saunders about podcasting and the trip to Australia by the European Skeptics. 0:17:55 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:28:12 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Stanton Friedman". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a Changed World 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Maynard with Richard Saunders 0:05:50 Claire Klingenberg Claire Klingenberg is the President of the European Council of Skeptical Organisations and co-organizer of the Czech Paranormal Challenge. Since 2013, she has spoken at multiple science and skepticism conferences, and has consulted on a range of projects where pseudoscientific belief meets science. This week she headed to the Skeptic Zone studios to chat with Richard Saunders. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vji9ygw00ZU 0:22:10 Rob Palmer at CSICon 2022 In his final report, Rob roves around the halls at CSICon 2022 in Las Vegas and bumps into Natalia Pasternak and Carlos Orsi from Brazil, Abhijit Chanda from India and Thomas Westbrook from Holy Koolaid on YouTube. https://skepticalinquirer.org/authors/rob-palmer 0:40:58 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "UFOs". The Barrier Daily Truth - 30th May, 1950 The Sydney Morning Herald - 8th January, 1954 The Canberra Times - 8th July, 1965 The King Island Times - 9th June, 1976 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:04 An interview with Zion Lights Zion Lights was a spokesperson for the 'Extinction Rebellion' organisation before leaving it owing to fundamental disagreements with the group's reasoning and activities. Today her focus is on the importance of communicating science effectively, the climate and ecological emergency, the problems with environmentalism and clean energy. Skeptics in the Pub video https://youtu.be/f0mHZe1JEGM https://www.zionlights.co.uk https://www.emergencyreactor.org 0:32:54 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. Video https://youtu.be/4jakYguXUks cumming.ucalgary.ca/resource/tourette-ocd/children-and-adults/disorder-specific-resources/tourette-syndrome-and-0 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:42:04 Rob Palmer at CSICon 2022 Guest reporter Rob roves around the halls at CSICon 2022 in Las Vagas and bumps into Hollywood actor Aaron Fors together with Hannah Johnson. Then Brain Dunning swings by with another update on 'The UFO Movie THEY Don't want you to see'. Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Special Guests, 24th Nov. https://www.meetup.com/austskeptics/events/287036082 Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:06:42 A Strongly Worded Letter Skeptics receive all sorts of interesting letters from the public, some complimentary, some not. It seems that many people also believe that skeptical organisations wield much more power or influence than we really do. On today's show, Richard Saunders reads one of the more noteworthy examples of frustration from a corespondent. 0:18:16 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill The Story of 'Lady Ganga', Michele Frazier Baldwin, daughter of Kendrick and Ruth Frazier. When Michele, a 45 year old Mother of three was diagnosed with late-stage cervical cancer, she took this as a call-to-action. She decided that she would travel to India to paddle board over 700 miles down the Ganges River, spreading awareness about this disease that was going to kill her and breaking a World Record in the process. https://www.ladyganga.world LADY GANGA: NILZA'S STORY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5yMCzx0ctU 0:23:34 Rob Palmer at CSICon 2022 Guest reporter Rob roves around the halls at CSICon 2022 in Las Vagas and bumps into Kyle Polich from the Data Skeptic Podcast, Karl Withakay and JD Sword. 0:38:12 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to Kendrick Frazier. 1989, Nov 25 - Kenosha News 1976, July 26 - Benton Courier 1995, Aug 28 - Clovis News Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Special Guests, 24th Nov. https://www.meetup.com/austskeptics/events/287036082 Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:34 Rob Palmer at CSICon 2022 Guest reporter Rob roves around the halls at CSICon 2022 in Las Vagas and bumps into David Robert Grimes, a physicist, cancer researcher, and author. Rob also catches up with Ramiro Rodriguez from the 'Triangle Skeptics' and finaly to Prof. Richard Dawkins. 0:15:12 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:27:24 Evidence Please! With Jo Alabaster A classic report from 2016 about Biodynamic Gardening. Yes, truth can be stranger then fiction! 0:41:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to James Randi and Uri Geller. Geller on Tonight Show https://youtu.be/zD7OgAdCObs Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Special Guests, 24th Nov. https://www.meetup.com/austskeptics/events/287036082 Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:48 Rob Pamler at CSICon 2022 Guest reporter Rob roves around the halls at CSICon 2022 in Las Vagas and bumps into Joseph Uscinski who is a professor of political science at the University of Miami and speaker at the convention. He also catches up with Wendy Hughes to talk about 'Romance Scams'. Next he chats to Adrienne Hill and finaly to Prof. Richard Wiseman. 0:22:55 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill The tables are turned as Adrienne interviews Rob Palmer about his Sunday Papers presentation of 'The Great Australian Psychic Prediction Project'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kcly0Ooczo 0:37:15 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Timothy Good". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:50 You Can Count on Adrienne CSICon 2022. Skeptics from all over the world are in Las Vegas for this major convention. Adrienne gives us her preview of the meeting. https://csiconference.org 0:12:07 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Richard Saunders. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:23:52 Evidence Please! With Jo Alabaster A classic report from 2016 about the dangers of 'Black Salve'. No good for cancers or anything else! Black salve, also known by the brand name Cansema, is a pseudoscientific alternative cancer treatment. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_salve 0:35:15 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "The Psychic Side". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:28 UFOs! We catch up with podcaster of Brian Dunning to learn more about the process of making a documentary film. Brian's new movie will be called "The UFO movie they don't want you to see!" https://www.briandunning.com/ufo https://skeptoid.com/episodes/4208 0:25:34 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the "Disappearance of Frederick Valentich". Canberra Times - 23 October 1978 Canberra Times - 25 October 1978 Canberra Times - 29 October 1978 Papua New Guinea Post - 27 October 1978 https://skepticalinquirer.org/2013/11/the-valentich-disappearance-another-ufo-cold-case-solved/ https://skeptoid.com/episodes/4385 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:46:04 Australian Science Communicators Jirana Boontanjai and Tom Carruthers The Australian Science Communicators is the peak body for science communicators and science journalists in Australia. Established in 1994, the Australian Science Communicators has grown to a national network of more than 1650 subscribers and 450 financial members working in science and technology communication, including science journalists and writers, public information officers for academic and research organisations, scientists, museum professionals, science educators, science film-makers, and many other diverse professions united by the common theme of making science accessible. https://www.asc.asn.au https://www.asc.asn.au/blog/2022/09/05/the-2023-science-communicators-conference https://pintofscience.com.au Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:09:09 The Real ESP Great news for Australians, The ESP are coming to Canberra for Skepticon 2022. We chat to the team, Andras G Pinter, Pontus Bockman, Annika Harrison (and special guest) and find out what they will be talking about at the upcoming convention. https://theesp.eu 0:16:32 Queen Elizabeth II Predictions from 1952 What were some of the amazing predictions made back in the 1950s about Queen Elizabeth II? We dive into some digital archives to find out what people were thinking and predicting 70 years ago. 0:24:52 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Richard Saunders. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:18 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to "Psychic Surgery". https://skepdic.com/psurgery.html James Randi video: https://youtu.be/41hJ6DY8xLI?t=984 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:36 Claire Klingenberg for Skepticon 2022 Claire Klingenberg is the president of the European Council of Skeptical Organisations. She has been involved in the skeptic movement since 2013 as co-organiser of the Czech Paranormal Challenge. https://www.clairek.com 0:14:04 Take Stock - With Shelley Stocken Does Naturopathy work? The truth about 'natural' medicine. 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 raises the question, what's the deal with naturopathy? (From 2016) http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/does-naturopathy-work-the-truth-about-natural-medicine/news-story/ebba033e2bad6801f736db1a9235cc9e 0:20:56 A Major Battle Won in the Continuing War on Homeopathy Fraud On Thursday, a three judge panel for the D.C. Court of Appeals reversed the dismissal of suits the Center for Inquiry brought against Walmart and CVS over claims that they deceived customers by marketing fake medicine as if it were real. Walmart and CVS shelve homeopathic products alongside real medicine. This placement is deceptive to consumers who can easily confuse it for scientifically-tested products that provably work – which they are not. https://centerforinquiry.org/blog/score-one-for-the-good-guys-a-major-battle-won-in-the-continuing-war-on-homeopathy-fraud 0:27:50 Alternative health clinics face closure The NSW health watchdog has been given the power to shut alternative health clinics, including naturopaths and chiropractors, for not complying with its code of conduct. https://www.facebook.com/AustralianSkepticsIn Press Conference NSW Minster for Health 2002 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pXs4Gwy3o0 0:34:04 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to "Ghosts in Canada". With special guest reader Adrienne Hill. The Calgary Albertan - 22nd June, 1912 The Vancouver Province - 24th November, 1996 The Winnipeg Free Press - 28th October, 2012 https://www.calgary.ca/arts-culture/heritage-sites/city-hall-ghosts.html Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:24 You Can Count on Adrienne Pseudoscience in Education In this discussion, Adrienne Hill, Kelly Burke, and the Skeptical Fairy Godmother Angel from the internet, aka the tooth fairy, aka Michelle Bijkersma, get together to discuss pseudoscience in education within their three countries of Canada, the USA and Australia. This is an edited version of the conversation, only touching on a few of the topics they cover in the full recording. But you can hear the unedited version by going to the Skeptic Zone YouTube page or by clicking on the link in this week's show notes. We also ask you to tell any teachers you might know about this conversation. Full version here: https://youtu.be/EVRvs01tXPQ 0:22:34 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Kebrina Kinkade". Sydney Morning Herald - 16th March 1980 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:40:22 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:50:54 Maynard's Spooky Action What's on Maynard's Podcast? A new book from longtime music industry insider Jane Gazzo fills in Australian music history from a time before oversharing became endemic. Sound As Ever: A celebration of the greatest decade in Australian music (1990-1999), a book with Andrew P Street covers most things that you should know about the optimistic musical decade that was dashed against the uncaring digital rocks of the 21st century. http://www.maynard.com.au Also https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winchester_Mystery_House Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:18 Did Nostradamus Predict death of the Queen? Some claim Nostradamus predicted with accuracy the year in which Queen Elizabeth II would die, but also that he foresaw the crowning of Prince Harry as king. It turn out either is true. We look into the claim and hear from some who believe it to be true. https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/nostradamus-king-charles-harry 0:17:14 The Skeptical Fairy on a Train Appearing from a thunderclap and a puff of smoke, the Skeptical Fairy reminds us that we can enjoy skeptical events online. 0:19:34 King Charles III - Predictions With the accession to the British throne of King Charles III, we take a look at some of the predictions made about him (as the Prince of Wales) over the last 20 years, catalogued in the database of the Great Australian Psychic Prediction Project. 0:31:46 Jim Wilshire - Skeptical Poem The Donor 0:32:46 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers and other publications. This week "What's Happening in ESP Today?" from 1980. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Vic Skeptics https://vicskeptics.wordpress.com/events

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 Queen Elizabeth II - Predictions With the death of Queen Elizabeth II, we take a look at some of the predictions made about her over the last 20 years, catalogued in the database of the Great Australian Psychic Prediction Project. 0:11:52 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:19:48 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham The Unicorn - Part 3 - By Anthony G Wheeler Do Unicorns exist? Have Unicorns ever existed? These may seem like simple questions, questions to which the answers are well known. Nevertheless, they are not. We cannot select our answers from just 'yes' or 'no'. The answers have been sought for hundreds of years, and even now the answers are not simple. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 14 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:34:22 Jim Wilshire - Skeptical Poem Beneath a Black Balloon 0:36:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Telepathy". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:30 A Psychic in Court With a guilty verdict handed down in the Chris Dawson murder trial, Richard Saunders recounts the day he was in court in 2020 to hear the testimony of a so-called 'Psychic' who has a tenuous link to the case. This report, together with comments form Nicholas Cowdery AO, QC, appeared in the March 2020 issues of 'The Skeptic'. 0:25:52 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham The Unicorn - Part 2 - By Anthony G Wheeler Do Unicorns exist? Have Unicorns ever existed? These may seem like simple questions, questions to which the answers are well known. Nevertheless, they are not. We cannot select our answers from just 'yes' or 'no'. The answers have been sought for hundreds of years, and even now the answers are not simple. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 14 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:38 Anti-vaxxers to pay $214,023 in legal costs A group of Australian anti-vaxxers who tried to sue governments citing fears over "a new world order" have been slugged with a $214,023 legal bill after the case was thrown out of court. https://tinyurl.com/29vy2zrt 0:40:38 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Zodiac". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:55:12 Jim Wilshire - Skeptical Poem Zodiac Man https://youtu.be/Mi5Z9MTTuuU Also Australian Skeptics National Convention 2022 Science & Skepticism in a changed world 3 - 4 December, National Library of Australia, Canberra https://skepticon.org.au Bob Nixon investigation https://youtu.be/6n0S8ENMlEo

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:34 Tik Tok Astrology Hundreds of Tik Tok videos are dedicated to Astrology. What do they tell us about this ancient belief system? What can we learn? Find out as we review a small selection of those who claim to read the stars. 0:18:48 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:28:24 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham The Unicorn - Part 1 - By Anthony G Wheeler Do Unicorns exist? Have Unicorns ever existed? These may seem like simple questions, questions to which the answers are well known. Nevertheless, they are not. We cannot select our answers from just 'yes' or 'no'. The answers have been sought for hundreds of years, and even now the answers are not simple. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 14 No. 1 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:40:12 Jim Wilshire - Skeptical Poem God's Dad https://youtu.be/es95UEpQmDY 0:41:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "The Bermuda Triangle". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:40 Maynard's Spooky Action Family Science Day at Parramatta The Mystery Investigators team take part in Family Science Day at Parramatta Square. No spoon is safe as Richard Saunders, Ian Bryce and Maynard entertain hundreds of mums, dads and kids. Maynard also asks the big question "What does science mean to you?" With special thanks to Frankie Lee, the City of Parramatta, Western Sydney University and The Powerhouse Museum. 0:19:38 Mind Body Wallet 20 years of predictable surprises. From so-called psychics to quack medical machines, Sydney's Festival of Mind Body Spirit never fails to trot out the same old tired nonsense. 0:26:42 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham The Little People Tim looks at those micro nations and principalities that spring up around the world. You too can be a monarch of your own country... sort of. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 40 No. 3 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:38:40 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Min Min Light. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:53:58 Jim Wilshire - Skeptical Poem Min Min Man https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fqo5nPig3NY

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:36 Interview with Jon Guy Put simply, Think Straight is an owner's manual for the human brain. Drawing from the vast history of scientific and cognitive research, this book is a tour de force through the science and philosophy of the human mind, and what it means to think as a rational human being in the 21st century. https://twitter.com/SkepticJonGuy https://www.amazon.com/Think-Straight-Owners-Manual-Mind/dp/1633887979 0:15:34 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Tim and Richard talk about the Bent Spoon Award from Australian Skeptics. Nominations are now open for 2022. https://www.skeptics.com.au/about/activities/bent-spoon/ 0:23:16 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:33:36 Jim Wilshire - Skeptical Poem Bachelor of Seance 0:35:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Prof. Ray Hyman. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 1993, Secrets of the Psychics - NOVA PBS https://youtu.be/41hJ6DY8xLI?t=1427 1988, 4th February - The Alton Telegraph 1995, 24th October - Arlington Heights News - Daily Herald 1994, 4th December - The Brazosport Facts - Texas

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:30 Ben Radford America the Fearful National panics about crime, immigrants, police, and societal degradation have been pervasive in the United States of the 21st century. Many of these fears begin as mere phantom fears, but are systematically amplified by social media, news media, bad actors and even well-intentioned activists. There are numerous challenges facing the U.S., but Americans must sort through which fears are legitimate threats and which are amplified exaggerations. This book examines the role of fear in national panics and addresses why many Americans believe the country is in horrible shape and will continue to deteriorate (despite contradictory evidence). https://www.amazon.com/America-Fearful-Marketing-National-Panics/dp/1476687722 0:25:25 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Never Ending Story By Anthony Garrett - Part 2 A report on the never ending search for perpetual motion and free energy. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 36 No. 3 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:39:42 Jim Wilshire - Skeptical Poem Mostly Ghostly 0:42:24 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the day the city of Adelaide was not destroyed in 1976. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 1976, 1st January - The Canberra Times 1976, 12th January - The Canberra Times 1976, 14th January - Papua New Guinea Post Courier 1976, 15th January - The Canberra Times 1976, 17th November - The Canberra Times 1976, 20th November - The Canberra Times Also Tests of the paranormal by Australian Skeptics over the decades https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsudGI1mVCMPpxJt0PP8ZQ2ouzO8uCejx

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:55 VALE Jim Wilshire A tribute to our late voice-over man and decades long friend of producer Richard Saunders. Video: Jim in action recording for The Skeptic Zone in 2011 https://youtu.be/nFByyeTIqEQ 0:14:08 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:23:02 Maynard's Spooky Action We catch up wtih our roving and raving reporter. What's up next for Maynard? What does he have on his own podcast and where will he be appearing? Find out as we sip a coffee with our man in the street. https://maynard.com.au 0:30:48 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Pyramid Power". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 1979, 18th November - The Canberra Times 1977, 19th October - The Australian Women's Weekly https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/58588545

The Skeptic Zone #720 - 24 July 2022 Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:54 Lessons in Science and Pseudoscience Science educator Melanie Trecek-King tells us about her recent report in 'The Skeptic' magazine (Australia) about the differences between science, pseudoscience and science denial. Melanie is a science educator at a community college in Massachusetts. A few years ago, while teaching general education biology to students who really didn't want to be there, she thought to herself: What does the average person need to know about science? The stages of mitosis and protein synthesis? Or how the process of science works? https://thinkingispower.com 0:22:34 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Never Ending Story By Anthony Garrett - Part 1 A report on the never ending search for perpetual motion and free energy. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 36 No. 3 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:41:06 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Alien Abductions". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 1992, 18th November - The Nashua Telegraph 2019, 27th June - The Chronicle Telegram - Ohio Also The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You To See http://theufo.movie

Dedicated to the memory of Jim Wilshire Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders Vale Jim Wilshire 0:04:06 Oh No! It's Ross Blocher We catch up with one one hardest working skeptical podcasters in the business, Ross Blocherfrom the popular "Oh No Ross and Carrie" show. https://maximumfun.org/podcasts/oh-no-ross-and-carrie 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 0:29:22 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Astrology". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 1986, 15th June - The Canberra Times 1986, 2nd August - The Canberra Times 1986, 21st August - The Canberra Times Also The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You To See http://theufo.movie