The Skeptic Zone

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:15 Freedom Protests in Sydney At the worst possible time, protesters march through the main streets of downtown Sydney, with cries of "freedom". We ask the question, "what's the harm in believing in conspiracy theories?" https://www.news.com.au/world/coronavirus/australia/wild-scenes-as-sydney-antilockdown-protesters-clash-with-police/news-story/e5b47e5103e55a7c6ebd1eb6d0094a78 0:11:06 Past Live Tours Join Richard on a stroll to discover the shopfront of a business offering hypnosis to solve your problems by investigating your previous lives. Included is a review of the website and a look into references to hypnosis online. https://www.pastlifetours.com.au http://skepdic.com/hypnosis.html 0:26:03 Interview with Ben Radford Following on from our hypnosis segment, we chat to paranormal investigator Ben Redford from the 'Squaring the Strange' podcast about his experiences, thoughts and opinions on the topic of hypnosis. https://squaringthestrange.libsyn.com 0:36:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the "psychics and police". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:00 Lockdown Showdown Anti-lockdown protesters in Melbourne. Melbourne was plunged into chaos hours before the state entered its fifth lockdown as protesters took to the streets. https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/news/antilockdown-protesters-storm-melbourne-hours-after-daniel-andrews-announcement/news-story/b8ddd8f95df6640bd0936add28f6d8f1 0:12:55 Skeptical Prize Money We chat with Leonard Tramiel from the USA and Ian Bryce from Australia about the prize money on offer for proof of the paranormal. https://centerforinquiry.org/press_releases/prove-your-paranormal-powers-and-win-250000-from-the-cfi-investigations-group/ 0:21:49 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:31:36 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the "psychic + tests". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard - THE CASTANET CLUB COMES TO YOU! http://maynard.com.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:12 You Can Count On Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill What's the deal with 666? This week Adrienne is joined by Kelly Burke to discover that if you look for it, the number 666 pops ups everywhere. Humans certainly are the pattern seeking, storytelling animal. Numberphile 666 - video https://youtu.be/UkZqFtYtqaI 0:22:10 The Book of Tim This week Tim Mendham talks about being on the front line at Australian Skeptics HQ and the work that goes into creating 'The Skeptic' magazine. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:41:50 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard reveals to the world the incredible Broadway singing bowl. https://soundcloud.com/maynard-1/the-castanet-club-broadway 0:45:09 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Psychic animals". 27.01.1940 - The World's News 03.04.1941 - Northern Times 30.12.1936 - The Daily Advertiser - Wagga Wagga 04.12.1943 - The Herald Victoria 02.03.1939 - The Daily Mercury - Qld 31.10.1939 - The Daily News - WA http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Sydney Skeptics in the Pub - Coffee https://youtu.be/TjszwS_VJnc

The Skeptic Zone #665 - 4 July 2021 Dedicated to the memory of Shelley Stocken The Skeptic Zone is very sad to inform you that our much loved former reporter Shelley Stocken died unexpectedly on Saturday 26 June 2021. She was surrounded by family. Episode #665 is dedicated to her memory, including a replay of one of her reports. We send our heartfelt condolences to her family. Shelley's reports were interesting, funny and educational. Her work in the skeptical community made a difference. She was a delight to know and work with. Thank you Shelley, from the team at the Skeptic Zone. Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:43 Take Stock. With Shelley Stocken From 2016 when new reporter Shelley Stocken looked into the myths and reality of so-called Demonic Possession. http://mentalillnesspolicy.org/coping/demonic-possession-mental-illness.html 0:15:21 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:25:47 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Psychic" and "America". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:23 More COVID-19 Madness Thanks to alert listeners of the Skeptic Zone, we have yet more examples of COVID-19 conspiracy flyers. Palmer's dangerous ads https://youtu.be/DKG9jxbqJzU?t=690 0:15:18 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill. This week Adrienne is joined by Kelly Burke for a look at some of the more 'wafflely' predictions from the Great Australian Predition Project. 0:26:38 The Book of Tim Tim Mendham reads from the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine, from Australian Skeptics. 'Seers, Spies and Satan'. Vol 35 No 2 - June 2015 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to 'Psychic' and 'Fraud'. 1989.06.06 - The Canberra Times 1906.09.04 - The West Gippsland Gazett 1932.04.02 - The Mail - SA 1928.09.16 - The Sunday Times - WA 1935.07.23 - The Tweed Daily http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud What Sound Does a Duck Make? https://www.conspiracyofonesolo.com Sydney Skeptics in the Pub https://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics/events/277460698 Medical Republic Podcast http://medicalrepublic.com.au/where-is-the-tga-when-you-need-them/47753

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:55 Operation Onion Ring Susan Gerbic strikes again! We are begining to wonder why these "psychics" don't see it coming! Once again Susan and her team go undercover to tumble someone who claims to talk with the dead and this time it involves children. https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/right-turns-only-circling-back-to-seatbelt-psychic/ https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/operation-onion-ring-thomas-john-and-the-children/ 0:18:38 The Book of Tim Tim Mendham reads from the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine, from Australian Skeptics. 'Seances'. Vol 35 No 3 - Sept. 2015 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:26:03 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:53 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to 'The Flat Earth'. 01.06.1906 - Dungog Chronicle 11.01.1951 - Denmark Post - WA 15.06.1935 - Geraldton Guardian Express - WA 16.07.1897 - Glen Innes Examiner 27.07.1905 - The Barrier Miner 27.07.1939 - Goulburn Evening Penny Post http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:18 The Raw Skeptic Report. With Heidi Robertson A hairdressing business in the town of Mullumbimby shows they are not a cut above the rest by displaying their ignorance via a 'hair-brained' poster, "Do not enter if you have been vaccinated against COVID-19". Heidi Robertson is on tne case with scoop for the Skeptic Zone. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jun/08/vaccine-wont-give-you-covid-health-officials-battle-anti-vaccination-messages-in-northern-rivers 0:24:19 The Book of Tim Tim Mendham reads from the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine, from Australian Skeptics. 'Phantoms'. Vol 34 No 4 - Dec. 2014 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:30:55 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to "The Occult". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Learning from Indigenous memory methods https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/SocialSkepticsCanberra Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders, live from Sydney Skeptics in the Pub 0:02:35 UFOs Those strange lights in the sky are back in the news again with a soon to be released report from the U.S. govenment. Alas, those needing confirmation of their long held belief that earth is being visited by little green men or little blue women may be in for yet more disappointment. https://www.facebook.com/centerforinquiry/photos/a.94000694772/10158405227984773/ https://edition.cnn.com/2021/06/03/politics/intelligence-officials-navy-pilot-ufo-encounters/index.html Carl Sagan Cosmos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llZNU799lOg 0:12:12 Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Time for beer and some 'Fish & Chips' as we return to Skeptics in the Pub. Richard bends some spoons and chats to Daryl Coloughn, Tim Mendham and Dr Brad McKay. 0:18:31 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:29:02 The Book of Tim Tim Mendham reads from the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine, from Australian Skeptics. 'Staring'. Vol 37 No 3 - Sept. 2017 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:28 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to "Full Moon" and "Crime". http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

A Grain of Salt. With Eran Segev Interview with Julia Galef Julia Galef is an author, podcaster, and speaker with a passion for good reasoning. Her first book, The Scout Mindset, is about the skill of looking at things honestly and objectively - why that's so valuable, why it doesn't come naturally to humans, and how we can get better at it. For over a decade, she has been the host of Rationally Speaking, a biweekly podcast featuring interviews with scientists and other thinkers. 00:01:10 Scout v. Soldier Mindset 00:05:47 Scout and Critial Thinking 00:15:10 Noticing Bias 00:16:13 Selective Skeptic Test 00:20:45 Status Quo Bias 00:23:34 Identities 00:26:58 Moral and Political 00:29:49 "Rigidity of the Right" 00:31:37 TED Talk 00:33:59 Rationally Speaking 00:35:02 Just Asking Questions 00:40:55 Cancel Culture 00:46:55 Finding the Truth 00:56:32 Contact Info https://www.amazon.com/Scout-Mindset-Perils-Defensive-Thinking/dp/0735217556/ https://juliagalef.com/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:40 Saunders rolls up his sleeve Join Richard as he makes his way to the Sydney COVID-19 Vaccination Hub to get the first of two shots. Later we catch up with Susan Gerbic, Adrienne Hill, Kelly Burke and Leonard Tramiel as they relay their vaccination experiences. 0:18:46 Back to Mind Body Wallet After a year's break, the Skeptic Zone dives once more into the bizzare world of a new age festival in Sydney. Joining in on the 'fun' is Daryl Coloughn and from 'The Medical Republic' magazine, Penny Durham. https://medicalrepublic.com.au 0:30:28 Pete Evans Cooks his own Goose The Therapeutic Goods Administration, has issued infringement notices totalling almost $80,000 to Peter Evans Chef Pty Ltd. The TGA also issued a directions notice to the company and to sole Director, Peter Evans, for removal of alleged non-compliant advertising. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-25/pete-evans-company-fined-80000-for-repeated-breaches/100165090 https://www.tga.gov.au/media-release/peter-evans-chef-pty-ltd-fined-79920-alleged-unlawful-advertising 0:37:55 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to 'the New Age' and 'Skeptic'. http://faginfamily.net/barry/psychic Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud The Skeptic Zone The Podcast from Australia for Science and Reason - Since 2008

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:09 Anti-Vax Hairdressers Gold Coast hair salon refuses customers who have had a COVID-19 vaccine. - 9News https://www.9news.com.au/national/gold-coast-hair-salon-refuses-customers-who-have-had-covid19-vaccine/15755f96-66c0-403f-b951-f3d9ca2bdd13 A hairdresser in south-west Victoria has come under fire from a local health authority for saying she won't accept customers who have been vaccinated against COVID-19. - Matt Neal from the ABC https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-21/anti-vax-hairdresser-bans-covid-jab-customers/100154936 0:13:50 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:25:30 The Book of Tim Tim Mendham reads from the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine, from Australian Skeptics. 'The Scopes Monkey Trail'. Vol 34 No 2 - June 2014 http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:32:24 Kelly Burke talks about Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia Join members of the Great Australian Psychic Prediction Project and find out about Kelly's recent online talk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lkpSRTG2Jk&t=8622s 0:36:23 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the 'The Scopes Monkey Trail'. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:58 Maynard's Spooky Action An interview with Dr Sathana Dushyanthen. Cancer research and COVID-19 myths. Dr Sathana Dushyanthen is a Science Communicator and Lecturer at the University of Melbourne and the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre. As part of her Sci Comm work, she has a YouTube channel through which she covers popular science topics and current research. Most recently, she has done a series on COVID-19 vaccine conspiracies. https://youtu.be/xe5HLfE8TEA https://pintofscience.com.au 0:17:50 The Long Arm of the Law The Federal Trade Commission (USA) charged St. Louis-based chiropractor Eric Anthony Nepute and his company Quickwork LLC with violating the COVID-19 Consumer Protection Act and the Federal Trade Commission Act, by deceptively marketing products containing vitamin D and zinc as scientifically proven to treat or prevent COVID-19. This is the first case the FTC has brought under the new law. https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/04/first-action-under-covid-19-consumer-protection-act-ftc-seeks 0:22:47 The Book of Tim Join Richard Saunders as he chats to Tim about what to expect in the upcoming issue of 'The Skeptic' magazine. 0:37:23 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to the Alien Abductions. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 Letter to the Editor A follow up to a story we mentioned a few weeks ago where a letter to the editor was published in the Byron Bay Echo newspaper. This week we feature the response from skeptic Ken McLeod. Just who is this mysterious midwife who is complaining about COVID-19 vaccinations? 0:10:20 Crazy COVID-19 Claim You will not believe the crazy claim the Australian government has had to rebut on their official COVID-19 website. Joining Richard to discuss this foolishness are Adrienne Hill and Leonard Tramiel. COVID-19 vaccines do not - and cannot - connect you to the internet. Some of the mRNA vaccines being developed include the use of a material called a hydrogel, which might help disperse the vaccine slowly into our cells. Bioengineers have used similar hydrogels for many years in different ways. For instance, they've used them to help stem cells survive after being put inside our bodies. Because of this, some people believe that hydrogels are needed for electronic implants, which can connect to the internet. https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines/is-it-true/is-it-true-can-covid-19-vaccines-connect-me-to-the-internet 0:26:00 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:33:44 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers on a search for references to the The National Centre for Science Education and Dr Eugenie Scott. Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud https://pintofscience.com.au Pint of Science is back! After the success of last year's festival (moved online at the very last minute) Pint of Science AU 2021 will run completely online again, with a range of new and improved activities. Our talented team has spent the last few months brewing up a variety of ways to enjoy a pint of science via video, social media, and across the airwaves. There will be even more ways to participate, with a mixture of pre-recorded and live events, including our wildly popular Pint of Science Trivia. With so much on, we decided to extend our run for two whole weeks, and we can't wait. Hope to see you there!

0:00:00 Introduction Adrienne Hill 0:02:00 Crazy COVID-19 Flyers Dispite the roll out of varoius COVID-19 vaccines around the world and despite the terrible situation in countries like India and Brazil, there are still those in our society who are intent on fear moungering. We read out some typical COVID-19 vaccine conspiracy flyers that were placed on cars in an Australian Hospital car park. 0:13:21 You Can Count On Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Not long ago on the Skeptic Zone, Adrienne looked at the myth that bad things happen in 3's. This week she turns the tables and looks for examples of good things happening in 3's. Is this a case of second time lucky for the number 3? 1, 2, 3 and off we go! 0:25:14 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised newspapers, this time from the USA, on a search for references to the 'Psychic Predictions' and the Bay Area Skeptics. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Sydney Skeptics in the Pub with Dr Paul Willis https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/AustSkeptics

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:02 The Alien Space Ship... that wasn't. We chat to author and podcaster Mick West about his work in uncovering a far more realistic explanation of a UFO seen over the ocean and captured on night vision video from a US navel ship. It turns out that the aliens might well be riding in normal airliners, heading into LA airport. https://www.metabunk.org/threads/pyramid-ufos-in-night-vision-footage-maybe-bokeh.11695/ UFO caught on camera https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfXwM3140Tg 0:21:56 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:28:32 COVID-19 India Update Abhijit Chanda from India with a report on the situation with COVID-19. Once again so-called alternative medicine is no match for a real disease. https://www.berationable.com/rationable-blog 0:41:48 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to 'Poltergeist'. In ghostlore, a poltergeist is a type of ghost or spirit that is responsible for physical disturbances, such as loud noises and objects being moved or destroyed. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:13 King St. Newtown Join Richard Saunders has he walks the length of Newtown's (an inner west suburb of Sydney) main street, stopping along the way to investigate no end of New Age and health stores. https://www.google.com/maps/@-33.898499,151.1854725,16.1z 0:24:03 Fake Medicine - Book Launch We travel to Geebooks in Glebe, Sydney to attend the launch of the new book by Dr Brad McKay, 'Fake Medicine'. Joining Richard is Australian Skeptics Inc. President Jessica Singer, Josh Godbee and Lara Benham. https://www.hachette.com.au/bradley-mckay/fake-medicine-exposing-the-wellness-crazes-cons-and-quacks-costing-us-our-health 0:32:34 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to 'Telekinesis'. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Tim Hunkin on youtube https://www.youtube.com/user/timhunkin1

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:55 Maynard's Spooky Action UFOs wirh Dr Steve Roberts and Brian Dunning With the 55th anniversary of Australia's famous UFOs story, 'Westall 1966', Maynard chats to Brian Dunning and Dr Steve Roberts about this strange event. They also look at other famous UFO accounts including the case of the pancake cooking aliens. https://skeptoid.com/episodes/4208 https://podcastufo.com/latest-podcast-irene-previn-stan-gordon https://westall66ufo.com.au 0:30:27 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:31 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Debunk". Including a report of quack medical devices from the 1950s. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/131642713?searchTerm=debunk Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:12 You Can Count on Adrienne with Adrienne Hill Migraines Adrienne has suffered from migraine headaches, with some mind-bending auras, for most of her life. What is a migraine? According to the Mayo Clinic, "migraine can cause severe, throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. It's often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound." These attacks can last hours or days and many people experience a warning aura. 0:15:26 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:22:13 COVID-19 Clunkers More madness from the world of COVID-19 conspiracy theorists. https://coronaconspiracy.cloud 0:33:47 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Supersitions. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard's Quiz - 8.30pm 4 April (Sydney Time) http://www.maynard.com.au Online Talks - Canberra Skeptics https://canberraskeptics.org

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:23 Dr Siobhan O'Sullivan Around 1,500 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year in Australia. Often, ovarian cancer feels like nothing. For that reason, most women are diagnosed when they are Stage III or IV. Siobhan tells us her story with this cancer and her advice for women. (With the help of Mr. Tom Toms the cat.) Siobhan O'Sullivan is an Australian political scientist and political theorist. Her research has focused, among other things, on animal welfare policy and the welfare state. She is the author of Animals, Equality and Democracy (2011, Palgrave Macmillan) and a coauthor of Getting Welfare to Work (2015, Oxford University Press). She co-edited Contracting-out Welfare Services (2015, Wiley) and The Political Turn in Animal Ethics (2016, Rowman & Littlefield International). She founded a regular podcast entitled Knowing Animals. https://www.abc.net.au/religion/what-i-learned-after-being-surprised-by-ovarian-cancer/13156080 https://knowinganimals.libsyn.com 0:32:30 Maynard's Spooky Action Dr Brad McKay - Part #3 Dr Brad McKay is an Australian science communicator, TV host and GP at his clinic in Sydney. He is an experienced broadcaster, interviewer and public commentator, appearing regularly on TV and radio, including as a host of ABC's Catalyst and a regular commentator on The Today Show, and presenting several medical podcasts for health professionals. He is also on the editorial board for The Medical Republic magazine and a committee member of Australian Skeptics Inc. https://www.booktopia.com.au/fake-medicine-bradley-mckay/book/9780733646867.html 0:39:04 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for reports on Harry Houdini. On March 18, 1910, he made three flights at Diggers Rest, Victoria, near Melbourne. It was reported at the time that this was the first aerial flight in Australia, although this is contested. Nevertheless he is at least among the first people to fly in Australia. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au https://youtu.be/YtW36LBfoOY Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:08 You Can Count on Adrienne with Adrienne Hill Not for Prophet From the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine from Australia, Adrienne reports on the ups and downs of checking thousands of mystical predictions covering the years 2000 - 2020. https://www.skeptics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/magazine/The%20Skeptic%20Volume%2041%20(2021)%20No%201%20(Cover).pdf 0:24:06 Maynard's Spooky Action Dr Brad McKay - Part #2 Dr Brad McKay is an Australian science communicator, TV host and GP at his clinic in Sydney. He is an experienced broadcaster, interviewer and public commentator, appearing regularly on TV and radio, including as a host of ABC's Catalyst and a regular commentator on The Today Show, and presenting several medical podcasts for health professionals. He is also on the editorial board for The Medical Republic magazine and a committee member of Australian Skeptics Inc. https://www.booktopia.com.au/fake-medicine-bradley-mckay/book/9780733646867.html 0:33:18 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for reports on Dr Carl Sagan. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud The 'V' Word https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-14/mullumbimby-anti-coronavirus-vaccination-changing-narrative/13109238

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:50 Maynard's Spooky Action Dr Brad McKay - Part #1 The return of Maynard. In this, the first of a three part interview with Dr Brad McKay, Maynard finds out about Dr Brad's new book and asks the big questions about Vampire Facials and much more. Dr Brad McKay is an Australian science communicator, TV host and GP at his clinic in Sydney. He is an experienced broadcaster, interviewer and public commentator, appearing regularly on TV and radio, including as a host of ABC's Catalyst and a regular commentator on The Today Show, and presenting several medical podcasts for health professionals. He is also on the editorial board for The Medical Republic magazine and a committee member of Australian Skeptics inc. https://www.booktopia.com.au/fake-medicine-bradley-mckay/book/9780733646867.html 0:18:08 Susan Gerbic Thomas John And The Believers. Susan talks about a 2019 article she wrote about how people keep believing even in the face of overwhelming evidence against their beliefs. In this case so-called psychic mediums contacting the dead. https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/thomas-john-and-the-believers/ 0:30:51 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:40:17 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Biorhythms. 1951.11.01 - The Sunday Times - Perth WA 1978.12.20 - The Australian Women's Weekly 1979.01.25 - The Canberra Times 1983.05.19 - The Canberra Times 1985.02.06 - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au http://skepdic.com/biorhyth.html

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:06 You Can Count on Adrienne with Adrienne Hill A new segment for The Skeptic Zone. Do bad things really happen in 3s? Adrienne looks at some of the psychology about this "bad things" myth and finds how easy it is for people to come to believe there might be something in it, even something mystical. 0:11:40 Alert on Anti-Vaxxers Police are making a list of anti-vax protesters with concerns that they could target storage facilities. A Joint Intelligence Group, made of members from the AFP, Australian Security Intelligence Information, Australian Border Force and state police forces has also been set up by the Department of Home Affairs. It will be staffed around the clock and act as a central hub for information on the anti-vaccination movement and vaccine security. - by Sarah Sharples, reported at news.com.au 0:15:48 The Book of Tim with Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. This week Tim looks at planets, days, dates and death. And so it goes, the almost inevitable realisation that all knowledge is connected and connectable. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:23:28 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950. We hear the summing up of Canon Knight and L. A. G Strong as they give their opinions on the so-called psychics and mediums they encountered. Into the Unknown - Part #10 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/229628547 Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Maynard 0:04:45 Crystal Healing: The Science and Psychology Behind What Works, What Doesn't, and Why An interview with Dan Lynch and Julie A. Kirsch Whether you're new to the practice of crystal healing or have a level of experience with it, chances are you have questions: What works? What doesn't? How and when should I spend my money etc? Forget the magic, the mysticism, and the mythology. You've come to the right place for answers. Dan R. Lynch is a professional geologist and the author of many books about rocks and minerals. Julie A. Kirsch is a trained psychologist. Together, they delve into the fascinating study of crystal healing, and they share their answers with you. https://adventurewithkeen.com/product/crystal-healing 0:18:58 The Book of Tim with Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. This week Tim looks at seeing things, insights and outsights. And so it goes, the almost inevitable realisation that all knowledge is connected and connectable. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:26:21 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:35:47 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950. We hear the summing up of Dr Bendit and Mrs Haldane as they give their opinions on the so-called psychics and mediums they encountered. Into the Unknown - Part #9 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/229628547 Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:43 Pete Evans Banned (Again!) Pete Evans' Instagram shut down for spreading COVID-19 misinformation. Also his bid for a Senate seat has been widely criticised. https://www.sbs.com.au/news/pete-evans-instagram-account-has-been-shut-down-for-spreading-coronavirus-misinformation 0:11:21 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Argument from Gibberish". This occurs when a person makes a claim that something is true, then supports that claim with an explanation that includes highly technical jargon from a field that is difficult to comprehend. It also occurs when a claim is based on pure gibberish in lieu of a strong argument. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:23:29 Facebook Puts Critical Health Information at Risk Like many organisations, Australian Skeptics Inc was affected by Facebook's changes to sharing and viewing news in Australia. While they are pleased to see that their Facebook Page and past posts have been restored, their own site content is still unable to be shared on Facebook. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2021/02/19/facebook-puts-critical-health-information-at-risk-by-blocking-legitimate-news-sources 0:30:58 The Book of Tim with Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. "It'a All In Your Head!" - This week Tim looks at Phrenology, part #2 of 2 - by Michelle Cooper. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:42:07 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950. Into the Unknown - Part #8 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/229628547 Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:23 Queensland Chiropractic Bad Advice Chiropractor forced to take down video on COVID-19, claiming 'nonsense' about 'big bad bug' and other bad advice. https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/chiropractor-forced-to-take-down-video-on-coronavirus-claiming-nonsense-about-big-bad-bug/news-story/57390e8ab06cce03ba5eba8e23f7f694 0:09:12 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Fallacy of the Single Cause". Also known as 'causal oversimplification', this fallacy occurs when it is assumed that there is a single, simple cause of an outcome, when in fact there may be a number of causes. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:18:02 The Book of Tim with Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. "It'a All In Your Head!" - This week Tim looks at Phrenology, part #1 of 2 - by Michelle Cooper. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:29:31 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950. Into the Unknown - Part #7 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:44:23 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:44 Test Your E.S.P. From 1977 comes this test from 'The Australian Women's Weekly'. How do you rate your psychic abilities? Have you ever experienced astral travel, levitation, mental telepathy . . . or seen a ghost? https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/5845338 0:19:03 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Appeal to Common Sense". The 'Appeal to Common Sense' is a specific version of 'Alleged Certainty'. It occurs when someone simply asserts their conclusion as obvious and a fact, however, it may not necessarily be so. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:28:48 The Book of Tim with Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. This week Tim looks at magicians, ethics, names, laws and more. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:27 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950 with spirit healers. SPIRIT HEALING, the "laying on of hands" or the making of psychic passes is not regarded by all psychic workers as a legitimate part of what can strictly be considered to be within the scope of spiritism. Into the Unknown - Part #6 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/24681718 Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:24 The Great Australian Prediction Project A look at some of the 'psychic' predictions for HM Queen Elizabeth II over the past 20 years. What was foreseen or maybe not foreseen for the monarch? 0:16:45 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Fallacy of Composition". This fallacy is about transferring or projecting the properties shared by a set of individual components to the whole group or product as if they were the one and the same. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:27:55 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:06 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950 with an Australian subject. Into the Unknown - Part #5 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma, 1 - 20 on YouTube. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuzfqFJyj3etWRBfGdOuqJHlcoafYim62

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:42 The Great Australian Prediction Project A look at some of the 'psychic' predictions for Donald Trump over the past 20 years. What was foreseen or maybe not foreseen for the former president? 0:20:13 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Perfect Solution Fallacy". The perfect solution is an 'all or nothing' way of thinking, unless the outcome is 100% perfect, the baby may end up being thrown out with the bath water. In other words, the idea is being rejected altogether. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:27:33 Vaccination Rates in Australia Australia has surpassed the immunisation gold stan dard, with a 95.09 per cent vac cination rate for five-year-olds. With 95 per cent of the population vaccinated, child hood diseases that kill cannot get a foothold due to "herd immunity". - By Jane Hansen 0:33:38 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950. Into the Unknown - Part #4 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:20 Society of Homeopaths in Hot Water From 'The Good Thinking Society'. Professional Standards Authority suspends the Society of Homeopaths (UK). The Professional Standards Authority (PSA) announced it had suspended the accreditation of the Society of Homeopaths (SoH). - Read by Lara Benham https://goodthinkingsociety.org 0:09:24 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Red Herring". This is when someone gives irrelevant information in an attempt to distract you from a topic at hand, often to avoid a question or shift the discussion in a new direction. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:16:00 Typewriter Time - Dialup Astrology We discover that Richard Saunders and Maynard have started a new age Astrology service. What advice can they offer Annika Harrison from the European Skeptics Podcast? 0:25:07 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:33:20 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950. Into the Unknown - Part #3 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also COVID-19 : Chiro Advice https://tinyurl.com/yxa3dfo3 Canberra Skeptics https://www.canberraskeptics.org Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:25 An interview with Adrienne Hill Adrienne Hill from Canada tells us about Tourette Syndrome and some of the so-called alternative treatments that have been offered over the years. https://tourette.ca https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/resource/tourette-ocd/home Monterey Skepticamp Youtube (at 4:53:10) https://youtu.be/DktlgzdFUTI 0:22:30 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at the fallacy of "Affirming the Consequent". This is when you assume or conclude a cause for a phenomenon based on the phenomenon itself without taking other possibilities into account. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:30:25 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week testing psychic claims from 1950. Into the Unknown - Part #2 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Aust. Skeptics YouTube https://youtube.com/c/AustralianSkepticsInc Vic Skeptics Cafe https://www.facebook.com/theskepticscafe Where did the rabbit go? - Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/where-did-the-rabbit-go/id1502744758 Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:36 COVID-19 Conspiracy An alleged quarantine escapee left her hotel after she denied the existence of coronavirus in a series of bizarre online rants. Self-proclaimed "world changer" Jenny D'ubios sparked a manhunt in Perth when she was found missing from her Perth hotel while in COVID-19 quarantine. https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/jenny-dubios-woman-who-allegedly-fled-covid-hotel-quarantine-shared-bizarre-online-rants-before-incident-c-1848398 0:15:09 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at the fallacy of "Unfalsifiability". Also known as 'untestability', this is when you make a claim that cannot be shown or proved to be incorrect or even correct via testing. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:21:02 Monterey Skepticamp 2021 Susan Gerbic with details of the first Skeptical Meeting of the year. This time the whole world can join in, online. Sat 2nd of Jan. (USA) https://abouttimeproject.wordpress.com/skepticamp-2020-schedule-speakers/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWm1ELCsYTQw53ljcCpSedw 0:34:15 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers. This week an a count of testing psychic claims from 1950. Into the Unknown - Part #1 http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:00 Pete Evans Booted Off Pete Evans has been removed from Facebook just days after telling Sydney followers to not get tested for COVID-19. https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/facebook-boots-celebrity-chef-pete-evans-over-covid-19-misinformation-20201223-p56px0.html 0:11:30 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Slothful Induction Fallacy". This is when even though there is enough good evidence to support a conclusion, this evidence is rejected and replaced by something possibly unrelated but more inline with a particular worldview. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:19:18 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Astrology". 1939, 9 December - Smith's Weekly 1942, 6 February - The Cairns Post 1977, 1 February - The Canberra Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also 2021 Origami Calendar https://skepticzone.tv/files/2021_origami.pdf 2021 Maynard Calendar Calendar https://skepticzone.tv/files/Maynard2021.pdf Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:07 Susan Gerbic We find out what GSoW are doing to support those fighting COVID-19. Also the latest ravings from two time Bent Spoon winner, Pete Evans. https://abouttimeproject.wordpress.com 0:17:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Uri Geller in the 1970s. 1973.12.08 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1974.02.06 - The Canberra Times 1975.01.23 - The Canberra Times 1975.02.24 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1975.03.03 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:38:55 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Ipse Dixit". Also known as "It Simply Is", this is when an opinion is given as if it were an undisputed fact, without any need for supporting evidence. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:45:17 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What is making news in the skeptical world? Find out with the newsletter compiled by Tim Mendham. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:36 Doctor at LARGE Ken McLeod reports on how anti-vaccination campaigner Judy Wilyman is trading on her flawed doctorate, and the implications for her, the University of Wollongong, and the community. - Read by Richard Saunders. https://www.skeptics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/magazine/The%20Skeptic%20Volume%2040%20(2020)%20No%204%20(Cover).pdf 0:27:16 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Water Diviners and Sceptics from 1945. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Let's Crack Zodiac - Episode 5 - The 340 Is Solved! https://youtu.be/-1oQLPRE21o TRICKY NICK by Nicholas J. Johnson https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/9781760787363/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:54 Living a Skeptical Life From a talk given some years ago by Richard Saunders at a meeting of the Victorian Skeptics, what does it mean to be a skeptic from day to day? The Mysterious Monsters 1975 https://youtu.be/44BUjnxwC_g 0:31:04 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Water Divining in 1912. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:38:37 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard - A Very 2020 Christmas and Calendar http://www.maynard.com.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:30 Ben Radford's New Book The famed skeptical investigator, podcaster and author tells us about his new book, a collection of stories covering almost 2 decades. http://benjaminradford.com 0:17:25 ESP - 250 We join a live broadcast of the European Skeptics Podcast to congratulate them for 250 episodes. https://theesp.eu 0:19:52 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Appeal to Emotion". Also known as "argument from passion", this is when you manipulate emotions in order to try and win an argument or promote your point, especially in the absence of good evidence. It is also a red herring, that is, a way of diverting attention away from the issue at hand. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:25:50 GSoW News with Susan Gerbic Susan and friends chime in to bring us up to date with the latest from Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia. From Wiki to psychic stings and more. With Adrienne Hill, Rob Palmer and Leonard Tramiel. https://www.facebook.com/Gerbic Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:00 His Goose is Cooked Another twist in the ongoing sad Soap Opera that is former celebrity Pete Evans. He's lost his sponsorships, he's lost his TV deals, he's lost his book deals along with his marbles. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-54972101 0:13:04 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Fallacy Fallacy". Also known as the bad reasons fallacy, this is when, because your opponent uses logical fallacies, you assume their main argument or point must therefore also be wrong. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:19:05 Prof. Ken Harvey and the TGA After a frustrating time as an advisor to the government agency, Professor Ken Harvey has finally had enough. https://www.smh.com.au/national/top-doctor-resigns-tga-role-over-concerns-with-policing-of-fringe-medicine-20201116-p56f11.html 0:27:43 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Australian Skeptics. http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:26 From 9/11 to COVID-19 An interview with Claus Larsen from Denmark about the ongoing research into some of the biggest conspiracy theories in recent history. What are some of the COVID-19 conspiracies doing the rounds and why do people believe in them? http://www.911facts.dk 0:29:50 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Appeal to the Stone". This is when you dismiss an idea or statement as absurd, invalid, or incorrect, without giving a satisfactory reason as to why. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:34:54 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Australian Skeptics. 1986.01.06 - The Canberra Times 1987.04.18 - The Canberra Times 1986.05.27 - The Canberra Times 1986.06.04 - The Canberra Times 1988.04.04 - The Canberra Times Also Richard Saunders vs. Milton Black. https://youtu.be/q-fjymxOrGE Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:50 The Misadventures of the VeXXed Bus We look at the bumpy road and comic mishaps of the "Vaxxed II" bus as it travels along its sorry road. 0:16:44 James Randi, a quiet chat. In 2014, Randi and Saunders toured Australia. During some downtime they chat about magic, memories and TV productions. James Randi: Psychic Investigator - YouTube https://youtu.be/ix_DEto6nH4?t=820 0:28:57 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Hasty Generalisation Fallacy". Also known as the argument from small numbers and the lonely fact fallacy, this is when you base your conclusion upon limited or inconclusive information. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:35:47 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:42:42 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. This week Tim looks at Double Delusion - House of Horrors - House of Science and more. https://www.skeptics.com.au Also The Correx Files https://www.abc.net.au/science/correx Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 James Randi on The Skeptic Zone Since the podcast begain in 2008, James Randi appeared on about 22 episodes. We present some edited highlights from over the years. 0:39:32 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the James Randi, with a focus on the year 1980, the year of the famed water divining tests. 1980.06.28 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1980.06.30 - The Canberra Times 1980.08.17 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1980.10.11 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1980.11.09 - The Sydney Morning Herald http://www.trove.nla.gov.au James Randi in Australia - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gN-0FEqAkQM Also Interview with James Randi 2006. With Richard Saunders https://youtu.be/ukqsZYHLcuI An Evening with James Randi 2014. With Richard Saunders https://youtu.be/Th1VjbjWpAU

0:00:00 A tribute to James "The Amazing" Randi. 1928 - 2020. 0:06:20 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:10:45 Australian Skeptics Inc. Annual Awards 2020 Join President Jessica Singer, E.O. Tim Mendham and Chief Investigator Richard Saunders as they annouce this year's awards, as heard at Skepticon 2020. The Fred Thornett Award for the promotion of reason - The Barry Williams Award for media - The Skeptic of the Year - The Bent Spoon Award. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:23:20 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. This week Tim looks at Godwin's law (or Godwin's rule of Hitler analogies). https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:45:40 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the Loch Ness Monter. Where oh where are you Nessie? 1937.07.29 The Pingelly-Brookton Leader 1950.11.09 The Daily Telegraph (Sydney) 1934.01.02 The Kyogle Examiner 1952.08.29 The Warrick Daily News 1947.04.10 Chronicle 1934.01.13 The Weeky Times http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:02 The Raw Skeptic Report. With Heidi Robertson. Interview with Brian Deer, a British investigative reporter, best known for inquiries into the drug industry, medicine and social issues for The Sunday Times. Deer's investigative nonfiction book, The Doctor Who Fooled the World, was published in September 2020 by Johns Hopkins University Press. Part #3 - Brain tells us of the impact of Wakefield's work on vaccination rates, the other authors of the original paper and the link to Elle Macpherson. https://briandeer.com 0:16:33 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Weasel Words". These are words for phrases that seem to point in one direction or give a certain impression, but in reality are often meaningless or even misleading. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:24:02 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. This week Wishful Thinking, Risky Business, Gambling and more. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:32:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the term "E.S.P." Can you read my mind? http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:09 The Raw Skeptic Report. With Heidi Robertson. Interview with Brian Deer, a British investigative reporter, best known for inquiries into the drug industry, medicine and social issues for The Sunday Times. Deer's investigative nonfiction book, The Doctor Who Fooled the World, was published in September 2020 by Johns Hopkins University Press. Part #2 - Brain tells us of why Wakefield left the Royal Free Hospital, conflicts of interest, buying blood from children, and some of his other investigations. https://briandeer.com 0:22:51 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:31:42 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Another reading from the pages of 'The Skeptic' from Australian Skeptics Inc. FLAT EARTHERS. In the paranormal world, there have always been some claims and claimants that have been ... how shall we put it ... weird. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:37:55 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the term "Quackery". How many ducks can we line up? 12.04.1916 - The Mercury Tasmainia 09.04.1934 - The Advertiser SA 28.08.1890 - The Australian Star 17.09.1891 - The Mercury and Weekly Courier 22.11.1873 - The Armidale Express http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:32 The Raw Skeptic Report. With Heidi Robertson. Interview with Brian Deer, a British investigative reporter, best known for inquiries into the drug industry, medicine and social issues for The Sunday Times. Deer's investigative nonfiction book, The Doctor Who Fooled the World, was published in September 2020 by Johns Hopkins University Press. Part #1 - An overview of the original Wakefild paper, how the children in the study were recruited, the $100 million dollar lawsuit and how the diagnosis of some of the children was changed to suit the end goal. https://briandeer.com 0:26:45 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Poisoning the Well". Also known as smear tactics, this is when you try to discredit your opponent, or an institution, especially in the mind of others, before even entering into a debate or conversation. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:33:45 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around - Trials by Fire. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:42:06 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the term "Haunted House". What was going 'bump' in the night? http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Belgium Skeptics https://skepp.be/en/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=5 Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:50 Life is Wild. With Michelle Franklin Ever seen a UFO? Many years ago Michelle and her father did and were quite baffled... for a time. What about the time she saw strange red eyes peering at her from the darkness while camping? What this some sort of stragne apparition or did Michelle find a more logical answer? 0:16:05 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the word "Ouija". What did the spirits say? http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:31:26 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Burden of Proof Fallacy". This is when instead of presenting evidence to support your claim, you insist that the person doubting it, prove your claim to be false. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:39:08 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around - Yetis, Yale, Smuggling and Shooting. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:46:23 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:26 COVID-19 Conspiracy Graffiti Michelle Bijkersma reports on COVID-19 conspiracy theory graffiti in Melbourne. 0:10:42 Protests - COVID-19 Conspiracies Anti-Lockdown protests at Melbourne's Queen Victoria Market as police arrest 74 protesters and issue more than $280,000 in fines. https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/police-arrest-74-and-fine-176-after-vic-market-protest-20200912-p55v1z.html 0:17:12 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around - Graphology, Writing, Profiling, Testing and Woo. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:25:05 The Secret of the Secret What is the secret of the secret? Find out as we visit 'The Secret of the Secret Convention'. With the voice talents of Abhijit Chanda and András Pintér. 0:31:19 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the term "UFO". What is up there in the skies? http://www.trove.nla.gov.au Also Skeptics Cafe - Live Online Talk by Richard Saunders - 21 Sept. 8:30pm https://www.facebook.com/theskepticscafe Maynard's Mastermind Quiz - With Richard Saunders https://www.facebook.com/maynard1/videos/10158830429649359 Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Your Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:20 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the words "Yowie Hunt". Did anyone ever find the Australian Big Foot? http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:21:08 CFI - We're Not Backing Down from Walmart Snake oil profiteering has emerged as a genuine crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic, exemplifying what the Center for Inquiry has been saying for years: Pseudoscientific medicine is dangerous, and those who profit from it must be held accountable. https://centerforinquiry.org 0:25:00 Skeptrack Repoert An overview of the live online Skeptrack from Dragon*Con 2020. http://www.skeptrack.com 0:32:18 A visit to a New, New Age Vet Can Map-you-luncher, Ke-ring Dlistals, Flo-me-lapthy, Skyo-blaptic, Free-tex-lolagy and Snerbal Stoop-alments save Henrietta the cat? With the voice talents of Dr Angie Mattke and Pontus Böckman. 0:38:57 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skeptics Cafe - Live Online Talk by Richard Saunders - 21 Sept. 8:30pm https://www.facebook.com/theskepticscafe Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Your Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:43 Here's My Two Cents Worth. With Jennifer Hathorn Jennifer takes us on a decades long journey through the madness that is Dragon*Con. What are some of the highlights involving skepticism? Find out about the time James Randi appeared with Alice Cooper. 0:13:47 LIVE from Skeptrack! We talk to Dr Angie Mattke and Derek Colanduno from the studio floor ar virtual Dragon*Con. What's coming up this year on this live skeptical event? http://www.skeptrack.com 0:21:02 Enter the Dragon (Con) From the pages of 'The Skeptic', Richard Saunders reports on skepticism in the US - Dragon*Con and the Solano Stroll. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Your Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:50 A Drive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the word "clairvoyant". Can we find a little wisdom from the past? 1907, 26 January - Geelong Advertiser 1907, 28 November - Geelong Advertiser 1907, 25 June - The Australian Star 1919, 13 March - Darling Downs Gazette 1928, 12 April - News 1944, 27 May - Mirror http://www.trove.nla.gov.au 0:20:10 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:28:22 Online Trivia with Susan Gerbic It's not all bad news in the lockdown. Find out how you can join in an online, world-wide trivia game every week. 0:33:33 Peril in the Bermuda Triangle Do you dare take a tour in the mysterious Bermuda Triangle? If you do, expect the unexpected! 0:38:44 More COVID-19 Craziness A round up of stories and reports from the "far side" of COVID-19 conspiracies and foolishness. https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/lizzy-rose-shows-coronavirus-symptoms-in-new-online-video-c-1263751 https://www.perthnow.com.au/technology/celebrity-chef-pete-evans-spruiks-donald-trump-in-latest-video-ng-562377bc5cd261e4960b59ad0aa87010 https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/courts-law/magistrate-smacks-down-victorian-antimasker-mandy-crerar/news-story/68b9590042cbd302fffad44772ab8761 https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/magda-szubanski-targeted-by-conspiracy-theorists-after-coronavirus-safety-ad/news-story/0248a388cd48e268fcef236ad2a664f9 https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/news/kath-kim-comedian-magda-szubanski-accuses-chef-pete-evans-of-fat-shaming/news-story/56f365747e8a429501952edc2a1d6f4a Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Online (Thursday 3 Sept. 7pm) https://www.twitch.tv/australianskeptics Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:04 On the Search for those Elusive Ghosts An interview with Beth Darlington in London, UK. A paranormal investigator who has a very open-minded and fair approach to investigating the claims of the paranormal. https://www.accessparanormal.com 0:18:20 Logical Fallacies with Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Anecdotal Evidence Fallacy". This is when you are swayed into taking up a position or belief based on isolated examples of data, poor data or personal experience, rather than reliable evidence. A Logical Fallacy is an error we can make in reasoning, but it usually crops up when we are discussing or arguing our point of view. 0:23:41 Typewriter Time Before the mighty space ship Solar Flare charted unknown regions of the galaxy, its original namesake was on a less well-known mission to the moon. With the voice talents of Jennifer Hathorn, Brian Dunning and Ben Radford. 0:30:52 More COVID-19 Foolishness From the dangerous to the ridiculous. More stories of foolishness during this time of COVID-19. https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/coronavirus-astrazeneca-vaccine-doctor-slams-covid19-antivaxxers/news-story/f16004f67ac400806ac9444f879f65bf https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/pete-evans-labelled-hypocrite-for-covid19-safety-measures-in-byron-healing-clinic/news-story/1811d8ff5a5a43f840a662fce4bc2832 https://www.skeptics.com.au/2020/07/19/call-to-action-on-anti-vaccination-bus-tour 0:44:04 Let's have a Random Rant with Dr Paulie Dr Paulie looks at a study about fighting COVID-19 misinformation on social media, and interviews Professor Tammy Hoffmann from the Institute for Evidence Based Healthcare at Bond University about critical thinking for school students. https://bond.edu.au/profile/tammy-hoffmann Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud