The Skeptic Zone

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:18 Life is Wild. With Michelle Franklin Seeds of Distress? Back in July, Michelle saw a little story on facebook. Someone in America claiming to have received a package of seeds from China in the mail. They said they didn't order anything, but this little package labelled as earrings, but containing what looked like lemon seeds just showed up at their house one day in the mail. The story was about how the US department of Agriculture were asking that anyone who receives a package like that contact them to dispose of it safely. 0:14:08 Australian Skeptics Newsletter A round up of news that comes across the desk at Australian Skeptics. https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:20:06 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Texas Sharpshooter Fallacy". Also known as the "clustering illusion", this when you downplay or ignore information that doesn't support your argument, or point of view, and focus on information that seems to be more in line with what you would like to be true. It is also imposing meaning onto randomness. 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 From the pages of 'The Skeptic' Biblical shenanigans at Sydney's Townhall and the world according to Homoeopathy. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Stardust Special Edition https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/doughded/stardust-special-edition-foreword-by-richard-dawkins?ref=83hgz3

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:18 Interview with Sue Ieraci Sue is an Australian doctor and emergency specialist with more than three decades' experience in the public hospital system. She is a vocal advocate for improvements in Emergency Medicine, how it is viewed in the hospital framework and patient-centred care. Sue is a member of the Executive of Friends of Science in Medicine and she strongly promotes evidence based medicine. https://www.scienceinmedicine.org.au 0:23:16 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Appeal to Consequences". This is when it's concluded that an idea or proposition is true or false because the consequences of it being true or false are desirable or undesirable to the one making the 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. 0:28:53 Typewriter Time Green complexion and blue spots on the toes. What can it mean for Lakeside hospital? With the voice talent of Celestia Ward and Brian Dunning. 0:33:19 SovCits Invading Australia More and more we are hearing news about "sovereign citizens", or "SovCits" for short, with some reports suggesting COVID-19 government restrictions have driven a surge of interest in this movement. https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/news/coronavirus-victoria-sovereign-citizens-tactic-infuriating-cops/news-story/29a57a1004bd32780c5f078d501b61da https://www.utas.edu.au/news/2020/7/28/1038-why-do-living-people-believe-they-have-immunity-from-the-law https://skeptoid.com/blog/2013/10/14/the-legal-gibberish-of-freeman-on-the-land Also Canberra Skeptics https://canberraskeptics.org Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:51 VAXXED Bus Banned Blue Mountains City Council - Matter of Urgency - That the Council now considers a matter arising in relation to NSW Heath order and Council bookings by VAXXED Bus tour that has been ruled by the Mayor to be a matter of great urgency. https://www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/documents/2020-07-28-council-meeting-unconfirmed-minutes 0:10:30 Australian Skeptics Newsletter Highlights from the recent newsletter from Australian Skeptics. Find out what's going on around the skeptical world and especially right here in Australia. https://www.skeptics.com.au https://canberraskeptics.org https://www.facebook.com/events/604994790085985/ 0:19:47 Participating in the Predictions Project Ease drop in on the very first meeting of the international prediction project participation partnership program. An interesting look into how to score and mark the homework of so-called psychics and mystics. With Richard Saunders and skeptics from all over the United States. Follow Susan Gerbic on Facebook for details of Prediction Project Zoom meetings. https://www.facebook.com/Gerbic 0:33:45 Typewriter Time A very short trip to another planet. 0:36:35 Ghost in a Box Want to talk with dead people? Ari Moore says there's an app for that. It doesn't take much time on YouTube before the video-hosting website's algorithm will automatically recommend a video referring to the paranormal. Hundreds of paranormal investigation channels promote their 'research' on the platform, with larger channels reaching upwards of 1 million subscribers. A recent trend in YouTube paranormal entertainment has content creators using smartphone 'spirit box' apps to communicate with whatever spirits and/or demons are in the vicinity. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Sydney Skeptics in the Pub Online https://www.meetup.com/austskeptics Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:13 Pete Evans, what a Tweet Criticism has been levelled against celebrity chef Pete Evans for a recent tweet in which he seemed to discourage the wearing of face masks. https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/pete-evans-suggests-followers-should-stop-wearing-face-masks/news-story/354b3edc7b50bb5b2ef4d763e20f756c 0:10:14 Live Psychic Reading We chat to Susan Gerbic and a host of skeptics with their comments on a live psychic reading. Were we amazed, suprised or disapointed by what the psychic said? WIth Celestia Ward, Pontus Böckman, Kenny Biddle, Leonard Tramiel and Wendy Hughes. https://youtu.be/7PyZ3pPxKs0 0:20:29 VAXXED Bus - Delivers COVID-19 Conspiracies and Bad Advice Australian Skeptics has issued a warning and call to action to Australian media, medical professionals, and local councils regarding the current anti-vaccination 'revival' tour of rural and regional Australia. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2020/07/19/call-to-action-on-anti-vaccination-bus-tour/ 0:31:24 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "No True Scotsman". This interesting sounding fallacy comes from the notion that all Scotsmen are brave and if one turns out to be a coward, then he can not really be a true Scotsman. 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. 0:37:00 Typewriter Time Water, water everywhere...... With the voice talent of Beth Darlington 0:40:57 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around - Psychics, Writers, Psychologists and Imbibers. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Star Trek Continues https://www.startrekcontinues.com Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

Dedicated to the memory of Grant Imahara 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:17 Homeopathy still ineffective in India We chat to a Abhijit Chanda and get an update on the COVID-19 situation in the subcontinent. Patanjali Ayurveda's Corona Kit Scam: https://www.berationable.com/rationable-blog/2020/6/coronakit-or-con-examining-patanjalis-coronavirus-treatment Article on Immunity Boosting: https://www.berationable.com/rationable-blog/can-you-boost-your-immune-system Video on Boosting immunity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r_-kdo98TI Interview with Dr Shantanu Abhyankar the Patanjali fiasco and boosting immunity for COVID-19: https://youtu.be/z_LnZDcEzSo?t=745 0:16:11 Typewriter Time On the hunt for unknown monsters. 0:18:25 The Think Tank The Skeptic Zone reporters join Richard to discuss some issues of the day. This time we look at fake signs on playgrounds, the clothing company fined for false COVID-19 claims and the VAXXED bus on its sad tour. With Michelle Bijkersma, Michelle Franklin and special guests Lara Benham and Celestia Ward. Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:28 Life is Wild. With Michelle Franklin Water Divining Every time Michelle brings this up and someone offers to hook her up with their neighbour's mate's dad who can divine for her, she tells them about that time, way back before she was even born, when James Randi and Dick Smith and the first few members of the Australian Skeptics offered fifty thousand dollars to anyone who could divine for water for real. And they always seem surprised to hear that no one was able to do it. 0:12:42 Michelle Bijkersma Melbourne and the Mask Over the last couple of weeks Michelle has been impressed that locking down and ring fencing suburbs that are hotspots for Covid 19 has been a really targeted approach that spared everyone else in Melbourne, a city of 5 million people, the burden of lockdown again. - Her mask arrived a day or two before Melbourne went into stage 3 lockdown. How to fit and wear a mask correctly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwXJtN2Yt60 DHHS provides a comprehensive guide to face masks. https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-masks-covid-19 0:21:29 Typewriter Time Flat as far as the eye can see. With the voice talent of Sierra Joan. 0:25:03 The Cass Files - With Dr Cassandra Perryman State of the Union The US has always been a country of contradiction. It was formed out of rebellion, and views rebellion as the "patriotic" thing to do, but only if that rebellion upholds the status quo. Right now, this theme of rebellion and contradiction is on international display. So, what are the most glaring contradictions? Find out on the Cass Files. 0:37:31 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Tu quoque". Also known as the "Appeal to Hypocrisy" or "look who's talking", this is a type of Ad Hominem attack and comes into play when an inconsistency or hypocrisy from your side is used by your opponent to justify their position or to denigrate your position. 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. 0:44:09 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around - Monsters, Mysteries and Medicos. 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 0:04:07 Interview with James Underdown from the CFIIG Can you demonstrate paranormal ability? Are you interested in earning $250,000 dollars? The Center for Inquiry Investigations Group (CFIIG) at the Center for Inquiry-Los Angeles offers a $250,000 prize to anyone who can show, under scientific testing conditions, significant evidence of any paranormal, supernatural, or occult power. https://cfiig.org 0:34:31 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at the "Relative Privation Fallacy". This fallacy, also known as "not as bad as", can be seen as a type of red herring or distraction. The fallacy is essentially an argument that a certain issue is not important or does not deserve attention and resources because there are other and more important issues. 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. 0:41:50 Typewriter Time A Cook Book with a message. 0:44:47 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around - Ghosts and ghouls, sex and magic. And so it goes, the almost inevitable realisation that all knowledge is connected and connectable. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard LIVE Friday 8:30pm https://www.mixcloud.com/live/dj-maynard/ UK Skeptics in the Pub https://www.skepticsinthepub.org

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:25 Trish & Chips - With Trish Hann Trish tells us about her love of the movie Jurassic Park, but more importantly the importance of having positive and strong role models especially for girls and young women looking for inspiration to lead them into the world of science. 0:12:00 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Personal Incredulity". Also known as "the argument from personal astonishment", this is when someone cannot accept an argument because they don't believe in or don't understand the premise and the points being made. That is to say they think it's false because they cannot see how it can be true. 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. 0:18:49 Typewriter Time The concerning matter of a Free Energy Machine. 0:22:00 The Think Tank The Skeptic Zone reporters join Richard to discuss some issues of the day. We delve into why people may legitimately not want to wear masks as well as exploring the mindset driving the resistance. Dr Cass shares her very moving personal experience of COVID-19 before we discuss the burgeoning online Skeptical meeting phenomenon. With Michelle Bijkersma, Dr Cassandra Perryman, Trish Hann and Michelle Franklin. Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:30 Maynard's Spooky Action This week Maynard in conversation with the one and only George Hrab from the Geologic Podcast. A wind ranging interview with the bonus of George singing the theme from the James Bond movie, Moonraker! http://www.geologicpodcast.com 0:24:14 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "non sequitur". The term "non sequitur" comes to us from Latin, and translates as "it does not follow." It is a statement or conclusion that doesn't logically follow from the previous statement or the main point of the 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. 0:33:01 Australian Skeptics Newsletter #100 What's making news at Australian Skeptics? Find out with newsletter #100. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:40:50 The Book of Tim - With Tim Mendham Back to the Past (From the June 2020 issue of 'The Skeptic') The History of Chiropractic, part #2 The Chiro Wars - Written by Dr Stephen Basser. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Video talks with Susan Gerbic https://www.facebook.com/GSoWproject/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:37 Prof. Paul Willis on the hunt for Dinosaurs Palaeo Pictures is a new deal in documentary making. Their documentaries are made by the palaeontologists doing the research. They can take the audience into the field, get them in the dirt of the excavations and following all aspects of the research that brings ancient worlds back to life. And, along the way, they provide funding support for the research effort. http://palaeopictures.com/ Video of interview with Prof. Willis https://youtu.be/640zWWa2WzE 0:24:49 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Moving the Goal Posts". Also known as "Raising the Bar" and "The Shifting Sands" this is when your opponent does not accept a successful answer to their challenge and insists on you answering more and more questions. 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. 0:32:54 The Coronavirus is a fraud?? We look at a bizarre flyer finding its way into letter boxes around Sydney. Is there a link to The Informed Medical Options Party (IMOP), the people against Vaccination and Fluoride? 0:44:00 The Book of Tim - With Tim Mendham Back to the Past (From the June 2020 issue of 'The Skeptic') The History of Chiropractic, part #1 - Written by Dr Stephen Basser. 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 0:04:50 Zapping Quack Machines Loretta Marron, aka The Jellybean Lady, tells us about her long campaign to expose medical zapping machines. These devices claim to scan your body with magical energy and zap parasites and viruses. https://www.scienceinmedicine.org.au 0:18:43 Psychic Sting Update Susan Gerbic returns with an update to the story we posted last week. Now the New Zealand media are interested in the psychic who claimed to have a preventative for COVID-19. https://thespinoff.co.nz/science/05-06-2020/nz-psychic-healer-promotes-dietary-supplement-as-covid-19-preventative/ https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/the-thomas-john-experience-buckle-up-hes-back/ 0:26:41 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The False Equivalence Fallacy". This is when it is argued that two different things or points of view, that may have only passing or superficial similarities, are in fact logically equivalent. 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. 0:32:44 Australian Skeptics Newsletter #99 What's making news at Australian Skeptics? Find out with newsletter #99. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:36:45 Go Extinct! Stardust Catches the Carnivores An interview with Bailey Harris and Ariel Marcy. Go Extinct! Stardust Catches the Carnivores is a new special edition of the award-winning Go Extinct! tabletop card game, incorporating artwork and concepts from the Stardust series of science books for young readers. Players complete sets of animals based on actual genetic clades, working to collect the most sets by inferring the other player's cards and identifying common ancestors on the evolutionary tree. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/stardustscience/stardust-edition-go-extinct-evolutionary-tree-board-game Also Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:52 COVID-19. Homeopathy in India We are joined by Abhijit Chanda from the Be Rationable Podcast for his opinion on the use of Homeopathy to fight COVID-19 in India. https://www.berationable.com 0:17:24 I Think We Need To Think. With Susan Gerbic Susan gives us the scoop on yet another sting operation. This time an alleged psychic in New Zealand is in her sites. What bizarre and tangled conspiracy theories are woven into the mystical psychic thread? Can the psychic forsee the end of COVID-19? 0:34:46 A Random Rant! With Dr Paulie We talk to Dr Paulie about a very important announcement regarding this year's Skepticon, the Australian Skeptics National Convention on the Gold Coast, Queensland. https://www.skepticon.org.au 0:43:04 Pint of Science 2020 - Vaccination Myths From the Godfrey Laboratory Dept of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, immunology student Catriona Nguyen-Robertson covers some of the more common myths and misconceptions regarding vaccinations. https://pintofscience.com.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Sydney Skeptics in the Pub - Online https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/AustSkeptics/events/hsfmrpybcjbgb/ Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au About Time - Belief in Psychics https://tinyurl.com/abouttime002

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:34 The THINK TANK After a gap of almost 2 years, the Think Tank is back, only this time Instead of meeting at the club at the end of the street, we meet virtually online. We discuss quack medical devices, secret messages in money and why more people are going to psychics in these troubled times. With Michelle Franklin in the Northern Territory - Heidi Robertson in Northern NSW - Eran Segev in Sydney - Michelle Bijkersma in Melbourne - Trish Hann in Sydney - Dr Paulie on the Gold Coast - Mandy-Lee Noble in Brisbane - Richard Saunders in Sydney. Short-lived Anti Quackery Committe 2002 - Video https://youtu.be/7pXs4Gwy3o0 https://ratbags.com/rsoles/comment/quackerycommittee.htm https://www.tga.gov.au/bioresonance 0:43:54 About Time! Updates with Susan Gerbic From now on all the assorted science activism projects that Susan had been working on for years will be under the umbrella title About Time Project. This will simplify administration tasks, freeing up time allowing them to do more science activism and less time fussing. They are now a non-profit 501(3)c as About Time https://centerforinquiry.org/blog/plandemic-asks-questions-but-wont-answer-them/ https://www.facebook.com/pg/GSoWproject/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWm1ELCsYTQw53ljcCpSedw https://abouttimeproject.wordpress.com Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard MADD Club LIVE https://www.facebook.com/Maynardcomau Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 Investigating the Paranormal... and Boobs? Former Australian Skeptics committee member and one of the founders of the 'Mystery Investigators' show for schools, Alynda Brown tells us of her investigations of "Psychics" and strange medical claims of the early 2000s, including undergoing hypnosis to increase her bust size! Testing Mr. Sen. (page 40) https://www.skeptics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/magazine/The%20Skeptic%20Volume%2022%20(2002)%20No%204.pdf Testing Ms Maree Teychenne (page 37) https://www.skeptics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/magazine/The%20Skeptic%20Volume%2023%20(2003)%20No%203.pdf Full Fact Book of Cold Reading https://www.coldreadingsuccess.com/books 0:29:43 Plandemic conspiracy video plays cat-and-mouse with platforms The anti-vaccine conspiratorial "documentary" Plandemic, which makes a range of misleading claims about COVID-19, has been playing a cat-and-mouse game with social media platforms since it was launched across a range of sites. It was initially published on May 4 (US time) on video sites Vimeo and YouTube, and quickly followed on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and even the business 'match-up' site LinkedIn. - Tim Mendham https://www.skeptics.com.au/2020/05/12/plandemic-conspiracy-video-plays-cat-and-mouse-with-platforms/ 0:40:09 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Slippery Slope". Also known as "The thin edge of the wedge" or "The domino fallacy", this is where it is asserted that a relatively small step or action in a certain direction will inevitably lead to a chain of events with a larger and negative result. 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. 0:49:47 Good News / Bonkers News The Good: A church in Australia, selling bleach as a coronavirus treatment, is fined $151,200. The Bonkers: Hundreds of conspiracy theory protesters on the streets of Melbourne and Sydney. https://www.tga.gov.au/media-release/mms-australia-fined-151200-alleged-unlawful-advertising https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-13/church-in-australia-selling-bleach-coronavirus-treatment-fined/12242150 Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard MADD Club LIVE https://www.facebook.com/Maynardcomau Skepticon 2020 https://www.skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:14 Conspiracy updates with Ben Radford Ben is a writer, investigator, and skeptic. He has authored, co-authored or contributed to over twenty books and written over a thousand articles and columns on a wide variety of topics including urban legends, unexplained mysteries, the paranormal, critical thinking, mass hysteria, and media literacy. https://squaringthestrange.libsyn.com/ 0:27:08 The Diet Skeptic. With Mandy-Lee Noble An update to the story on Pete Evans who has parted with the Ch.7 TV network. We hear about some more of his antics and links to bizarre conspiracies. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/08/australian-celebrity-chef-pete-evans-under-fire-for-sharing-views-of-uk-conspiracy-theorist-david-icke https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/tv/reality-tv/pete-evans-and-channel-7-part-ways-after-tv-chef-was-fined-25000-by-tga/news-story/2881a77a153405e068df9ca49dfea5e1 0:35:23 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Middle Ground". Also known as "False Compromise" and the "Argument to moderation", this is when it's asserted that the truth of the matter lies between two extremes and casts doubt on a well reasoned and evidence based conclusion. 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. 0:40:03 Australian Skeptics Newsletter #97 Skepticon 2020 update - Paleo Pete hit with TGA fine - Anti-vax political party changes name despite objections - David Icke kicked off Facebook - Supermarkets scrap dangerous conspiracy magazine. https://www.skeptics.com.au Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard MADD Club LIVE https://www.facebook.com/Maynardcomau Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:39 What Doctors Don't Tell You In the last week of April 2020, the conspiracy theorist magazine "What Doctors Don't Tell You"was yanked from the sheveles of two Australian Supermarkets after action by Prof. Darren Saunders and radio host Ben Fordham. https://www.2gb.com/exclusive-supermarkets-selling-dangerous-conspiracy-magazines https://www.2gb.com/anti-vaccination-magazine-lashes-out-at-ben-fordham https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/retail/what-doctors-dont-tell-you-magazine-pulled-from-supermarket-shelves/news-story/45b5c8f45ca878859e1424cdaa49eb5f 0:23:38 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The False Dilemma". Also known as "the false dichotomy", "the either/or", and "the false choice", this is when an argument is framed as having only two options or conclusions, when there are in fact other logical alternatives. 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. 0:30:54 The Book of Tim - With Tim Mendham Please to Remember (From Vol. 36 No. 3 of 'The Skeptic') Tim looks at some of the ideas and theories about Stonehenge. http://www.skeptics.com.au https://www.lynnekelly.com.au/the-memory-code/ 0:39:25 Saunders on the radio... 2002 A very young Richard Saunders appeared on Sydney community radio in 2002 to talk about the role and aims of Australian Skeptics Inc. It's 18 years later and how much has changed? Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard MADD Club LIVE https://www.facebook.com/Maynardcomau Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders & Pontus Böckman http://theesp.eu https://www.youtube.com/user/VoFTV 0:11:54 Down the Rabbit Hole with Mick West As COVID-19 makes its way around the world, more and more people are turning to the perceived comfort found in conspiracy theories. Mick tells of some of the old conspiracies doing the rounds and some of the newer ones with the roll out of the 5G network. https://www.tftrh.com https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/Escaping-the-Rabbit-Hole/West-Mick/9781510735811 0:32:40 The Diet Skeptic. With Mandy-Lee Noble The COVID-19 pandemic has for many of us brought significant change to our lives and even to how we think and what we value. And in these times you may have come to expect that in a Post-COVID world where health professionals and scientists are considered heroes the place for pseudoscience in health would have significantly diminished but unfortunately that is not the case. https://www.tga.gov.au/media-release/pete-evans-company-fined-alleged-covid-19-advertising-breaches 0:45:40 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This time Michelle looks at "The Appeal To Nature". This is the false, somewhat romantic idea that just because something comes from nature, it must therefore be pure, wholesome, beneficial and healthy. Basically good for you. 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. 0:53:02 CFI Newsletter - Snake Oil Salesmen It's time to stop giving snake oil salesmen the benefit of the doubt. Homeopathy is perhaps the most obviously phony form of alternative medicine, and we simply can't assume that those who manufacture and market it are acting in good faith, any more than we assume positive intent from a fraud psychic who fleeces clients out of their life savings to remove a curse. https://centerforinquiry.org/coronavirus Also Corona Conspiracy - Upload Images https://coronaconspiracy.cloud Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders & Celestia Ward https://www.2headsstudios.com https://squaringthestrange.libsyn.com 0:09:24 Homeopaths Caught Out.... Again! Michael Marshall from the Good Thinking Society Marsh talks about the philosophy behind his podcast, 'Be Reasonable' that invites believers to have their say. Also the investigations of the Good Thinking Society into the claims being made by UK Homeopaths about treatment for COVID-19. Also Skeptics in the Pub online. http://www.merseysideskeptics.org.uk/podcasts https://www.twitch.tv/sitp 0:30:19 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Special Pleading". This is when instead of admitting your point of view or argument is wrong, you try and find a loop-hole that gives you an 'out' and saves you from defeat. It is also when a person makes an exception to a universal principle because they are holding on tight to a belief that doesn't align with that principle. 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. 0:36:53 Past Bent Spoon winners vie for the dishonour in 2020 In the 38 years of the Australian Skeptics' Bent Spoon Award, issued to the perpetrator of the most preposterous piece of paranormal or pseudoscientific piffle, we have never had the need to award this dishonour to the same person twice. However, with the current COVID-19 situation impacting on the whole world, some of the Bent Spoon winners from past years have suddenly and dramatically thrown their hats into the ring for 2020. - Story by Richard Saunders and Tim Mendham https://www.skeptics.com.au/2020/04/16/past-bent-spoon-winners-vie-for-the-dishonour-in-2020 0:44:21 The Book of Tim - With Tim Mendham Review of 'The Science of Miracles' Tim gives us his thoughts of this book by lenganady investigator of all this paranormal, Joe Nickell. Tim pays special attention to Joe's look at the 'Miracle of Fátima' from 1917. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders & Stefan Sojka 0:05:05 A Grain of Salt. With Eran Segev Skeptics legal defence fund seeks volunteers An international skeptics legal defence fund is in the process of being set up, following the successful defence of Britt Hermes, and it is calling for experienced and qualified volunteers with legal, marketing and fund-raising expertise to help out. https://skepticslegaldefense.org 0:22:00 'Medical Intuitives' Promising to Protect Your DNA Against Coronavirus Just before large gatherings were banned due to coronavirus, but after it hit the news, Gary Nunn attended a Mind, Body, Spirit convention in Sydney. As expected, it was full of clairvoyants and generalist psychics. But there were also a lot of people describing themselves as "medical intuitives". - Story by Gary Nunn https://www.vice.com/en_au/article/y3mj3m/the-medical-intuitives-promising-to-protect-your-dna-against-coronavirus 0:36:52 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Argument from Ignorance". Also known as "The appeal to ignorance", this is when you assert something is true or could be true because no one has proved it to be false. This fallacy wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the person making the claim. 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. 0:44:27 The Book of Tim - With Tim Mendham The Mighty Mitta Muster Water Divining Test - Part #3 A look at how Australian Skeptics test paranormal claims. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:55:12 Maynard's Spooky Action This week Maynard reports from his international studios and gives us his tips, tricks and viewing recommendations for surviving the COVID-19 Lock Down. You have been warned! http://maynard.com.au Also Greetings from Susan Gerbic - Mike Hall - Michael Marshall - Alice Howarth - George Hrab - Brian Dunning - Ben Radford - Celestia Ward - Pascual Romero - Pontus Böckman - Jelena Levin - András Gábor Pintér 3M Science of Safety Podcast https://www.3m.com.au/sospodcast Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:51 Be Rationable - An interview with Abhijit Chanda from India Are you curious? Are you always questioning things that you see around you? Are you looking for answers, but most of them just aren't convincing enough? The Be Rationable podcast wants to know what works and what doesn't, and who's right and who's not. There's a problem though. A lot of what we find in this quest is either based on bad evidence, bad ideas, propaganda or just misinformation. https://www.berationable.com/ 0:22:42 COVID-19 and Quack Claims At this time of a world-wide crisis, we see the best and the worst of humanity. While some people put their lives on the line in the fight agaist COVID-19, others keep spreading conspiracy theories and very bad health advice. We look at some examples of stupidity and wilful ignorance. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8184583/Anti-vaxxer-Meryl-Dorey-leader-calls-followers-storm-hospitals-coronavirus-lockdown.html 0:33:45 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Begging the Question". Also known as "Circular Reasoning", This is when the answer to the question is implied in the wording of the question itself. The premise of the question and the foregone conclusion support each other in a circular way without referring to any external actual 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. 0:40:33 Maynard's Spooky Action This week Maynard interviews one of the original Skeptic Zone reporters, Dr Rachael Dunlopfrom "Dr Rachie Reports". We hear her take on the current COVID-19 situation from a medical science point of view. 0:53:33 I Think we need to THINK - With Susan Gerbic COVID-19 life in California Susan gives us her perspective of what 'the new normal' means for her, her town and for Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia (GSoW). Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar SitP Online https://www.twitch.tv/sitp Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:14 Maynard's Spooky Action Will comet ATLAS take our minds off COVID-19? We hope so and so does astronomer Kirsten Banks. Find out about this cosmic visitor, native astronomy and much more from one of Australia's up and coming leaders in science. https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/ca/ http://www.aboriginalastronomy.com.au https://astrokirsten.com.au/podcast 0:19:05 Life is Wild. With Michelle Franklin Michelle brings us news on how the Northern Territory in Australia is coping with COVID-19. 0:24:15 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Post hoc, ergo, propter hoc". Also known as "assuming the cause", the "faulty causal assumption" or just "post hoc", this is when two events occur in succession and it is believed that the first event must have caused the second event. Or to put it another way, the second event is a result of the first event. 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. 0:32:41 The Raw Skeptic Report. With Heidi Robertson It's a strange world for a mum of two school kids and things are getting stranger by the day. Heidi and her new life indoors with the family to help beat COVID-19. 0:37:33 The Book of Tim - With Tim Mendham The Mighty Mitta Muster Water Divining Test - Part #2 A look at how Australian Skeptics test paranormal claims. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Message from repoter Michelle Bijkersma Logical Fallacies and COVID-19 0:02:12 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:06:37 Brian Dunning - Skeptoid Podcast Back Catalogue For Free We chat to Brian about his efforts to keep us informed and entertained during this time of crisis. Also we learn of some COVID-19 conspiracy theories. http://www.skeptoid.com 0:19:17 Homeopaths in the UK - Unproven COVID-19 Tests in Australia In the UK, Good Thinking's Judicial Review concluded with strict conditions placed on the Society of Homeopaths. In Australia, questionable health advice regarding the current virus emergency is emerging from alternative medicine. We look at claims being made by a practitioner of Applied Kinesiology and of Homeopathy. https://goodthinkingsociety.org https://quackwatch.org/related/Tests/ak/ Applied Kinesiology video (not a satire) https://youtu.be/kWJgnX-AhRQ 0:35:05 The Book of Tim - With Tim Mendham The Mighty Mitta Muster Water Diving Test - Part #1 A look at how Australan Skeptics test paranormal claims. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:44:33 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, Sunday interviews, part #4 Attendee Catherine Eran Segev Bob Novella Conspiracy of One https://www.conspiracyofonesolo.com Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:19 New Age pseudoscience is no match for COVID-19 In a break with a decades-long tradition, members of Australian Skeptics will not be attending this weekend's Mind Body Spirit exhibition in Sydney's Darling Harbour due to the dangers of the spread of COVID-19 and the ignorant attitudes of some exhibitors. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2020/03/12/new-age-pseudoscience-is-no-match-for-covid-19/ 0:09:26 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Australian Skeptics' dinner meeting This week climate change with, Dick Smith Jessica Singer Maia Marsh and Eran Segev 0:28:17 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Straw Man". 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. 0:36:17 I Think we need to Think - With Susan Gerbic Susan gives us an update on some recent additions and revisions to Wiki pages. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stop_Mandatory_Vaccination https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shalom_House http://www.gsowteam.org/ 0:43:45 Life is Wild - With Michelle Franklin Wild Horses. Michelle talks about invasive species. The whole world is full of invasive animal and plant species, and we've seen the argument that it doesn't matter anymore, that we should just accept that the world is all mixed together now, and boundaries are arbitrary, and this is just how it is. Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Skepticon 2020 https://www.gcskeptics.com/skepticon-2020

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:56 Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII We head to the beautiful 'Surf Coast', a couple of hours south-west of Melbourne, to attend the local Skepticamp. It was also a chance for us to test the 'Premium Wine Card', a device that the makers claim can change the taste of wine and water. http://premiumwinecard.com https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/amino-neuro-frequency-just-more-embedded-frequencies-silliness/ 0:19:30 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Australian Skeptics' dinner meeting This week climate change with, Tim Mendham Dr Michael Mann 0:32:40 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "The Appeal to Popularity". 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. 0:39:46 The Raw Skeptic Report. With Heidi Robertson Coronavirus Update Dr Sue Page AM is a past President of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia and current Board member of Future Health Leaders, North Coast GP Training, and RACGP Rural. As Associate Professor with the University of Sydney she links to the Northern Rivers University Centre for Rural Health, a collaboration between that university and the University of Southern Cross for the delivery of multidisciplinary health professional education in Australia. https://info.flutracking.net https://www.worldometers.info https://www.smartraveller.gov.au Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders live from Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII 0:01:36 Trish & Chips Trish Hann with timely advice on the use and value of face masks to help prevent the spread of disease. How effective are they? Should you use one and if so how should you use it? 0:12:50 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at the "Appeal to Antiquity". 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. 0:19:49 Australian Skeptics Newsletter #92 SKEPTICON 2020 - Psychic's day in court - UK homeopaths - Peter Brock's crystal Polariser - Are ghosts real? - 'Mad' Mike Hughes dies in rocket crash. https://www.skeptics.com.au/ 0:25:42 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, Sunday interviews, part #3 Cara Santa Maria Jennifer Bernstein Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:37 10 Things to look out for with Medicine Advertisements Multi-level marketing company fined $37,800 for alleged advertising breaches. The Juice Plus Company Australia Pty Ltd has paid the penalties after the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued three infringement notices for alleged advertising breaches relating to vitamin products. https://www.tga.gov.au/media-release/multi-level-marketing-company-fined-37800-alleged-advertising-breaches https://directselling.org.au/project/the-juice-plus-company-australia/ https://www.tga.gov.au/10-things-look-out-medicine-advertisements 0:15:47 Logical Fallacies - With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at the "Appeal to Authority". 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. 0:22:37 I Think we need to Think - With Susan Gerbic Susan gives us an update on some recent additions and revisions to Wiki pages, including the CHOICE Magazine Shonkey Awards. https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/nz-skeptic-conference-christchurch-2019/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Choice_(Australian_consumer_organisation) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siouxsie_Wiles 0:31:00 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, Sunday interviews, part #2 Trish Hann looks at Social Media Influencers. Also Video Interview - Richard Saunders. Skepticism, Vintage Woo & Fake News https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsu4xaZ1ZUk Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:53 A Psychic in Court Richard Saunders was in the court room when someone claiming to be a psychic appeared in the witness box. This case is turning out to be one of Australia's most infamous murder trials. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-02-12/chris-dawson-committal-hearing-hears-evidence-from-psychic/11957172 0:15:58 Logical Fallacies. With Michelle Bijkersma This week Michelle looks at "Ad Hominem". 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. 0:23:06 Beating Cancer? The random discovery of a notice stapled to a telegraph pole has us doing a little bit of research into amazing health claims. Can a book for sale on Amazon really give you the secrets to beating every disease? Somehow we are skeptical. https://www.amazon.com/Beating-Cancer-Disease-Naturally-getting/dp/1696783917/ref=nodl_ https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/cancer-health-news-quackery/alkaline-nonsense 0:37:19 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, Sunday interviews, part #1 Caroline Zielinski Liam Mannix Tim Mendham https://www.carolinezielinski.com Also Australian Skeptics Dinner Meeting https://www.skeptics.com.au/2020/02/13/sydney-skeptics-special-dinner-dr-michael-mann-on-climate-change/ Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders with Maynard at Sydney Skeptics in tne Pub 0:02:00 Free Homeopthy Booklet... worth every cent We take a look at the information found in the free Boiron Homepathy information booklet on offer in American supermarkets and pharmacies. What can we learn from the Q&A section? With help from Heidi Robertson. 0:34:08 Good Thinking takes Homeopthy to court Good Thinking's legal challenge to accreditation of Society of Homeopaths in the UK to be heard March 18th-19th. The Judicial Review challenging the accreditation of the Society of Homeopaths to be heard by the High Court. https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/gts-cease-psa/ 0:38:09 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Sydney Skeptics in the Pub February 2020 Gary Kennedy graduated from the School of Food Technology at UNSW in 1984. He has worked in hospitals and meatworks, and as a food safety trainer and food safety auditor. He currently is the Managing Director of Correct Food Systems, a food safety consultancy based at Surry Hills, and presents the monthly "What the Food" segment on Afternoons with James Valentine on ABC Local Radio, Sydney. Also Lara Benham Trish Hann Other Pubbers http://www.correctfoodsystems.com.au/the-correct-team.html Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:27 Not talking to the dead in Las Vegas We are joined by Celestia Ward from the Squaring the Strange podcast to discuss a report on yet another performer who claims to talk with the dead. https://www.facebook.com/LasVegasSocietyofSkeptics/posts/133563078123270?__tn__=-R 0:19:25 The Bondi Healing Festival of 1989 In 1989 Murray Finch attended a healing festival in Sydney. This report details some of the strange and bizarre modalities on offer. We learn that little has changed in over 30 years. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ 0:36:06 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, Highlights from the annual dinner, part #4 Mal Vickers Guy Nolch Les Oates Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders live from Portland, Oregon 0:02:14 The Think Tank... or The Hot Tub of Truth This week the Think Tank comes to your from a Hot Tub, surrounded by snow, in the city of Bend, Oregon. Joining us in the tub to discuss if science can "save humanity" are... Dr Erika Anderson Dr Jean-Marc Roch PhD Prof. Wendi Wampler Brian Dunning Susan Picard Lisa Dunning Richard Saunders https://svahausa.com 0:34:00 The Skeptic Zone Recomends In Season 2 of "The Dream", Jane Marie, an alum of This American Life, and Dann Gallucci, look at a world just as shady and mysterious as MLMs, but one whose promises are at times even more bombastic and unfathomable: WELLNESS. What is it? Who sells it? And will it bring you eternal happiness and, perhaps, eternal life? https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/stitcher/the-dream 0:44:23 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, highlights from the annual dinner, part #3 Jo Benhamu is a Senior Clinical Research Nurse with almost twenty years of experience in clinical nursing. She has a Masters in Bioethics and teaches ethics to medical students at Monash University. She is a founding member of Stop the AVN and has co-authored several papers challenging anti-vaccination papers in the scientific literature. She is Vice President of Australian Skeptics Inc. You can find her on Twitter: @jobenhamu https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Immortal_Life_of_Henrietta_Lacks Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Canberra Skeptics https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/SocialSkepticsCanberra

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Brian Dunning 0:03:06 Strange Colours in Sweden Pontus Bockman from the European Skeptic Podcast tells of how Swedes were fooled by one of the biggest scientific bluffs of our time. "Surrounded by Idiots" has had a major impact on how Swedish people talk to each other about psychology and discuss the behaviour of those around them. Indeed, Thomas Erikson has undoubtedly had the greatest influence on the public's interest in psychology in a generation. https://www.vof.se/how-swedes-were-fooled-by-one-of-the-biggest-scientific-bluffs-of-our-time 0:19:11 The Diet Skeptic... With Mandy-Lee Noble The hCG Diet Mandy-Lee unpacks the claims made by a so-called miraculous offering - the hCG diet - originally formulated in 1954 but currently prescribed by both unregulated and regulate health practitioners in Australia. 0:31:29 Life is Wild... with Michelle Franklin Rock Stacking Theres something undeniably beautiful about a massive rock, perfectly balanced on top of another rock, defying millions of years of weather, seismic activity, and who knows what human or animal activity may have occurred over that time. And in the tradition of the royal society for putting things on top of other things, people of course like to copy this. But what's the harm? 0:44:05 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, Highlights from the annual dinner, part #2 Dr Steve Novella Jay Novella Lara Benham Dr Lee Murray https://www.mq.edu.au/research/research-centres-groups-and-facilities/healthy-people/centres/centre-for-language-sciences-clas/australian-voices Also Strange Energies. An evening with Richard Saunders, Portland, Oregon https://www.meetup.com/Oregonians-for-Science-and-Reason-Portland/events/267828306/ Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:27 Skepticamp Monterey, California 2020 Join us for not only Skepticamp Monterey, but also for the pub meet and greet the night before and dinner after the event. With Bud Miller, Susan Gerbic and others. https://www.eventbrite.com/o/monterey-county-skeptics-and-humanist-association-of-monterey-bay-area-12224475493 0:16:47 VAXXED Bus creeps into Monterey That rolling blight on society, the VAXXED Bus, turns up in like a very bad penny into Monterey, California. Susan Gerbic was on the scene and reports for the Skeptic Zone. https://kion546.com/news/monterey-county/2020/01/09/parents-protest-vaccinations-in-monterey/ https://www.ksbw.com/article/small-group-of-anti-vaxxers-promote-film-in-monterey/30462328 0:31:28 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week, Highlights from the annual dinner, part #1 Dr Vyom Sharma Magician Prue Spencer Science Teacher Sarah Webb Magician Prue Spencer https://youtu.be/4zW1uWX5ShE Also Strange Energies. An evening with Richard Saunders, Portland, Oregon https://www.meetup.com/Oregonians-for-Science-and-Reason-Portland/events/267828306/ Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Cabberra BBQ https://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra/ Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII Prue Spencer Skeptic Zone Promo .wav - 30 sec. Download Here

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders, live from Skepticamp 2020 Monterey, USA 0:01:54 Talking to the Dead at RSL Clubs Tim Mendham and Richard Saunders report on Australian Skeptics' investigations into those performers who claim to contact the dead at venues dedicated to the memory of those fallen in war. - Read by Richard Saunders. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ 0:32:06 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week... SGU Book Sales Bob Novella from SGU Deligate Sam Ross Balch from Brisbane Mark Edward Nightmare Alley - Movie https://youtu.be/4zW1uWX5ShE Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:14 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week... Thomas Westbrook - Holy Koolaid LLC is an anti-cult, educational organization that promotes scientific skepticism and free thought and is at the helm of the secular, pro-science movement. Founded in 2015 by Thomas Westbrook, Holy Koolaid's online show has garnering millions of views with tens of thousands of subscribers and dozens of media appearances/collaborations. https://holykoolaid.com 0:21:19 Dr Euginie Scott and SkeptiCal 2020 Dr Scott tells us about the next SkeptiCal one day convention in the San Francisco Bay Area. Also we discover a rare book by James Bond! https://www.bibliomania.ws 0:30:32 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham This week Tim looks at those giants from the history of science who were just everyday people. How important is Citizen Science to the world? This report comes from an article called 'People Power'. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII SkeptiCamp Monterey 2020 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/skepticamp-monterey-2020-tickets-86152659925

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:08 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week... Jamie Lopez Steve Roberts Jessica Singer Mandy-Lee Noble Heidi Robertson 0:30:50 The Book of Tim... with Tim Mendham What goes around. Speaking Spirits and Psychic Surgery. Tim follows the circular path and ends up at the begining in an endless loop of the paranormal. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Maynard's 2020 Calendar - FREE http://maynard.com.au/2020-maynard-calendar Surf Coast Summer Skepticamp VIII https://tinyurl.com/SkepticampVIII SkeptiCamp Monterey 2020 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/skepticamp-monterey-2020-tickets-86152659925

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Maynard 0:03:37 The Raw Skeptic Report... With Heidi Robertson Heidi reports on the recent deadly measles outbreak in Samoa. We also play the audio of her presentation at Skepticon 2019. https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/aussie-health-experts-in-samoa-measles-epidemic-like-a-war-zone/news-story/b210fd48eeebc8cc1f459c87461a943b https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Samoa_measles_outbreak https://nrvs.info 0:16:26 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2019. This week... Michelle Bijkersma Jo Thornely Dr Paulie Nathan Eggins Nathleigh https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/zealot/id1245635983 http://www.gcskeptics.com https://www.conspiracyofonesolo.com https://www.youtube.com/user/nathleigh 0:39:05 The Book of Tim... with Tim Mendham A look at the history of skeptical organisations around the world. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Maynard 0:03:05 Skeptical Road Trip Join Maynard and Richard Saunders as they drive from Sydney to Melbourne to go to Skepticon 2019. Along the way they take photographs with of the Bent Spoon at various landmarks and try to beat the boredom of 10 hours on the road. 0:11:29 Maynard's Spooky Action... In the first of a long series of interviews from Skepticon 2019, Maynard talks to.. Mark Edward Susan Gerbic Les Oates Jay Novella All'antico means 'the traditional way' and in the spirit of a classic Trattoria, the meals echo true home style cooking from Nonna's Southern Italian kitchen. http://www.allantico.com.au 0:39:14 Geo Engineering with Tim Mendham Once again Tim Mendham reads from the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine, the journal from Australian Skeptics. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine 0:50:38 Australian Skeptics Annual Awards All the winners and from this year's ASI awards, held at Skepticon 2019.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:25 Skeptical Activism We hit the street outside the State Theatre in Sydney to hand out skeptical information flyers to the crowd lining up to see the "talking to the dead" performer John Edward. Thanks to Trish Hann and Lara Benham. https://www.skeptics.com.au/psychics-questions-to-ask 0:21:13 The Book of Tim Pint Sized Fun Tim Mendham looks at the history of Skeptics in the Pub. From the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine from Australian Skeptics. Vol. 37 No. 4 https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine 0:32:18 A Dive into a TROVE The Bent Spoon Award through the years A look back via online archives at the some of the press reports on the Australian Skeptics Bent Spoon Award over the decades. 1994, 12 March - The Canberra Times 1987, 19 April - The Canberra Times 1985, 31 August - The Canberra Times 1989, 26 March - The Canberra Times 2009, 3 December - Discovery Magazine https://trove.nla.gov.au/ https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/australian-skeptics-jeer-meryl-dorey https://www.skeptics.com.au/features/bent-spoon Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:45 Skeptical Adventures with Dick Smith Australian Skeptics patron Dick Smith tells of the time he flew out James Randi to take part in Australia's largest water divining challenge. Also other investigations and adventures over the years. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsudGI1mVCMP3D-YedfDUFzgEvtc_UfgA 0:27:05 Good Thinking Society takes on Ear Candles The BBC's Executive Complaints Unit has upheld a Good Thinking Society complaint against "Claudia tries... Ear Candling", a short video which appeared on the Glasgow based digital platform, The Social. They were concerned that the video gave the misleading impression that ear candling is both effective and safe. https://goodthinkingsociety.org/bbc-upholds-our-complaint-against-claudia-tries-ear-candling 0:34:00 Bailey Harris visits Ark Encounter What better way to spend Easter weekend than to take a tour of the Ark Encounter and expose the anti-science that it bleeds from every pore! That is just what author and secular activist Bailey Harris, partnered with Secular Student Alliance, did earlier this year. https://youtu.be/XYnyKnQHY64 0:40:34 The Hole in the Pole - Part #3 Virtually every religion refers to a subterranean world which is variously an afterlife (hell, purgatory, or Elysian Fields) or a secret place where other civilisations do their business. The Greeks had Hades, the Jews Sheol, the Tibetan Buddhists have Shamballa, the Nordic people have Svartalfaheimr, the Hindu Patala. And, of course, the Christians have Hell. Tim Mendhamlooks at varoius adventres to try and find the world beneath. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Award for Dr Karl https://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2019-11-20/dr-karl-kruszelnicki-unesco-award-science-communication/11717044

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:49 Anti-Vax Zealot in Medical Centre The bizarre story of a conspiracy theorist bluffing his way into a medical centre to get them to remove pro-vaccination posters from the walls. https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/anti-vaxxer-impersonated-official-demanded-clinic-pull-health-posters-20191114-p53am5.html https://www.tga.gov.au/media-release/impersonation-commonwealth-public-officials https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwH13-sneXs 0:13:08 Skeptical Investigations As part of a record of the history of Australian Skeptics, Ian Bryce tells of some of the early investigations into amazing claims in the 1980s. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsudGI1mVCMP3D-YedfDUFzgEvtc_UfgA 0:25:38 Bent Spoon Nominations for 2019 At a recent Sydney Skeptics in the Pub event, Richard Saunders told the audience of some of some of the nominations for this year's Australian Skeptics Bent Spoon award for the most preposterous piece of paranormal or pseudoscientific piffle. https://www.skeptics.com.au/features/bent-spoon/ 0:30:57 Tim Mendham - Editor Tim tells us how he gathers stories for publication in 'The Skeptic' Magazine from Australian Skeptics. 0:35:32 The Hole in the Pole - Part #2 Virtually every religion refers to a subterranean world which is variously an afterlife (hell, purgatory, or Elysian Fields) or a secret place where other civilisations do their business. The Greeks had Hades, the Jews Sheol, the Tibetan Buddhists have Shamballa, the Nordic people have Svartalfaheimr, the Hindu Patala. And, of course, the Christians have Hell. Tim Mendhamlooks at varoius adventres to try and find the world beneath. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:24 CSICon 2019 Interviews - Part #3 Rob Palmer, aka the well known skeptic, with part #3 of his interview series from CSIcon 2019 in Las Vegas. This week paranormal investigator Kenny Biddle, from Point of Inquiry Kavin Senapathy, GSoW editor Brandi and Aedan, and local Las Vegas student Daniel Spangler. https://www.facebook.com/TWKSkeptic/ https://skepticalinquirer.org/authors/rob-palmer/ 0:17:48 M 209 Cipher Machine Dr Steve Roberts, expert on codes and ciphers, talks about the M 209 Cipher Machine from WWII. https://simonsingh.net/books/the-code-book 0:29:55 The Hole in the Pole - Part #1 Virtually every religion refers to a subterranean world which is variously an afterlife (hell, purgatory, or Elysian Fields) or a secret place where other civilisations do their business. The Greeks had Hades, the Jews Sheol, the Tibetan Buddhists have Shamballa, the Nordic people have Svartalfaheimr, the Hindu Patala. And, of course, the Christians have Hell. Tim Mendhamlooks at varoius adventres to try and find the world beneath. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine 0:46:11 Skepticon 2012 Update We chat to Michelle Bijkersma from the Vic Skeptics to find out the lineup of international and local speakers appearing at the Australian Skeptics National Convention. Also https://www.change.org/p/the-australian-broadcasting-corporation-abc-please-bring-back-the-checkout https://goodthinkingsociety.org/anti-vaccination-claims-by-homeopaths-exposed-across-the-uk-media

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:09 Another strike against Homeopathy The head of the NHS launches an outspoken attack on the homeopathy industry for peddling deadly anti- vaccine myths. Simon Stevens accuses practitioners of spreading toxic 'misinformation' about jabs, which poses 'a significant danger to human health'. We get the background on the story from Michael Marshall from the Good Thinking Society. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7619805/NHS-chief-blasts-homeopathy-dangerous-blames-industry-fuelling-antivaxx-myths.html 0:14:16 CSIcon 2019 Interviews - Part #2 Guest reporter Rob Palmer talks to Elizabeth Loftus about false memories, Jim Underdownabout investigating paranormal claims, Janyce Boynton about Facilitated communication and Joe Schwarcz about demystifying science. 0:33:16 Geeks, Gamers, Nerds & Kids Tim Mendham, editor (and EO) of 'The Skeptic' magazine from Australian Skeptics, reads an item from Vol. 39 No.1. What is the cross-over between the Nerds and the Skeptics? https://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au BAS talk http://baskeptics.org Canberra Skeptics https://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra/

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:30 Banned Naturopath in Cook Islands The naturopath whose Cook Islands disciples continue to practice her prohibited remedies says she is the victim of a Nazi-style propaganda campaign. http://www.cookislandsnews.com/national/item/74612-ban-on-healer-who-offered-cancer-cure-to-dying-cook-islands-man http://www.cookislandsnews.com/national/health/item/74641-banned-healer-breaks-silence-to-protest-her-innocence/74641-banned-healer-breaks-silence-to-protest-her-innocence 0:14:17 CSIcon 2019 Interviews - Part #1 Guest reporter Rob Palmer chats to Seth Shostak about the search for alien life, Paula from Argentina, Mentalist Mark Edward and Natalia and Carlos from Brazil. 0:34:14 Fighting Words - Part #2 Tim Mendham, editor (and EO) of 'The Skeptic' magazine from Australian Skeptics, reads a feature from Vol. 39 No. 2. A look at the history and meaning of "Free Speech". https://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:30 Mind Body Wallet time again Join Richard Saunders, Peter "Ratbags" Bowditch and Lara Benham as they, once again, descend into the pit of woo that is Mind Body Spirit in Sydney. https://ratbags.com/ 0:17:30 Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia in action Barbara O'Neill is an Australian naturopath and lecturer on health issues who, in 2019, was banned for life by the New South Wales Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC) from providing free or paid health services. We look at the new Wiki page regarding her case. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbara_O%27Neill https://www.skepdoc.info/videos-2 0:27:00 Fighting Words - Part #1 Tim Mendham, editor (and EO) of 'The Skeptic' magazine from Australian Skeptics, reads a feature from Vol. 39 No. 2. A look at the history and meaning of "Free Speech". https://www.skeptics.com.au 0:37:35 Tricks of the Trade Australian Skeptics co-founder Phillip Adams recalls the time James Randi fooled the room with nothing more than a table top and a cigarette. As published in 'The Weekend Australian Magazine'. https://www.theaustralian.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:00 CHOICE Shonkys Far too many people lose money or suffer impacts to their health and wellbeing due to products that are overpriced, ineffective or downright dangerous. We all deserve better. The Skeptic Zone Podcast reports from the annual Shonkys Awards. http://www.choice.com.au 0:21:04 Trish & Chips! With Trish Hann Trish is interviewed by Maynard at Sydney Skeptics in the Pub where she talks about the latest science in the treatment of strokes. 0:31:00 I Think We Need To Think... with Susan Gerbic Susan updates us on more of the work going on at Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia. https://abouttimeproject.wordpress.com/ 0:36:52 Dr Fiona Fidler for Skepticon 2019 Dr Fidler is a psychologist with a PhD in history and philosophy of science, who has worked in conservation science for roughly the last decade. She is generally interested in how scientists and experts make and communicate decisions. In this interview, Dr Fidler gives us an overview of her upcoming presentation at Skepticon 2019. https://www.findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/display/person3224 Also.. Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:25 NZ Skeptics vs. Jeanette Wilson NZ-based, self-described "spiritual medium" Jeanette Wilson has started touring the country with her Psychic Surgery show. New Zealand Skeptics are running a campaign to try to disrupt this by contacting the venues and making them aware of the sort of thing they're hosting. We talk to NZ Skeptics Chairperson, Craig Shearer. https://skeptics.nz https://www.rnz.co.nz/audio/player?audio_id=2018715951 https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12273065 0:24:22 The Raw Skeptic Report... with Heidi Robertson Naturopath O'Neill banned for life The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission has given a life ban to naturopath Barbara O'Neill. The order permanently prohibits O'Neill from "providing any health service, whether on a paid or voluntary basis, to any person". The term "health service" includes "health education services", which were a feature of the northern NSW Misty Mountain Health Retreat founded by O'Neill and her husband Michael in 2001. Breaking the terms of the prohibition order could incur a six months prison sentence. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/10/02/naturopath-oneill-banned-for-life/ https://www.hccc.nsw.gov.au/Hearings---decisions/Public-statements-and-warnings/Public-Statement-and-Statement-of-Decision-in-relation-to-in-relation-to-Mrs-Barbara-O-Neill https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/oct/03/naturopath-who-said-bicarbonate-soda-cures-cancer-banned-for-life-by-health-watchdog 0:38:19 Maynard's Spooky Action... Maynard asks pubbers at Sydney Skeptics in the Pub the big question... What do they think of the recent action taken by the New Zealand Skeptics to stop a so-called psychic healer? With President of Australian Skeptics Inc. Jessica Singer, Tim Medham and others. Also Skepticon 2019 - https://skepticon.org.au Skeptoid 13th Birthday - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAD0h7-YG3c&t=38700 BrusFri - Noise Reduction - https://klevgrand.se/products/brusfri Skeptic Zone Promo .wav - 30 sec. Download Here

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:55 Area 51 - No Aliens Set Free We chat to noted paranormal expert Ben Redford about the fiasco at area 51. A good day for those who like to dance, but alas no aliens were set free to travel back to their home planet. https://squaringthestrange.wordpress.com 0:13:56 The Wallaby Award Australian Skeptics Inc is once again offering an annual award for the best piece of skeptical journalism. The Barry Williams Award for Skeptical Journalism recognises the best piece of journalism (in any medium) that takes a critical and skeptical approach to a topic that falls within our remit, which is the scientific investigation of pseudoscience and the paranormal. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/09/26/australian-skeptics-calls-for-nominations-for-media-prize 0:19:10 The Raw Skeptic Report... With Heidi Robertson A Queensland chiropractor-turned-alternative healer sold bottled water as a vaccine for the deadly Hendra virus. - By Warren Barnsley https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6394940/qld-healer-sold-water-as-hendra-vaccine 0:26:52 From the pages of The Skeptic - Did We Say That? Creationists Farewell Some Old Friends. Imagine for a moment that you were the proud possessor of an infallible science textbook. Imagine further that you could contact the infallible author of this textbook at any time and receive guidance as to the books correct interpretation. With a system like this in place, you'd be pretty right, wouldn't you? I mean, you wouldn't keep putting your foot in it, blundering along all over the place and having to post long lists of your egregious errors on your Internet site. Now would you? - By Brian Baxter http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 - https://skepticon.org.au Sydney Skeptics in the Pub - https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/AustSkeptics Maynard's Movie Night - 3 October - http://www.tinyurl.com/fhmaynard

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:10 Interview with Baily Harris 13-year old Bailey Harris is an author, speaker, and advocate for freethought and human rights. She is the author of the Stardust series of science books for young readers. https://stardustscience.com 0:17:17 The Winchester Mystery House Join Susan Gerbic and Richard Saunders as they take in a tour of this amazing, ramberling mansion. - The Winchester Mystery House is an architectural wonder and historic landmark in San Jose, CA that was once the personal residence of Sarah Lockwood Pardee Winchester, the widow of William Wirt Winchester and heiress to a large portion of the Winchester Repeating Arms fortune. https://winchestermysteryhouse.com 0:29:30 Life is Wild... with Michelle Franklin A question for listeners outside of Australia. Are you afraid to come here? If so, what is it exactly that you're afraid of? I'm going to take a guess and say that in your top 5 of scary Australian animals, along with snakes, crocodiles and sharks you're probably also concerned about spiders. And I don't blame you. They're big, and they run, and sometimes when they go inside your clothes is can be pretty scary. 0:37:15 The War Room at GSoW Computers, cables, cats and chaos. Welcome to the 'War Room' of Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia. https://abouttimeproject.wordpress.com Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Listening to the universe with gravitational waves http://meetu.ps/e/HcbCf/SSz1/a

Show Notes Greetings from the Surf Coast Spring Skepticamp 2019 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:15 Skeptical Outreach at the Solano Stroll Join members of the Bay Area Skeptics as they conduct PK (Psychokinesis or Telekinesis) tests at the famous Solano Stroll, one of the biggest street fairs in North America. With Dr Eugenie Scott, William Patterson and Steve Nelson. http://www.baskeptics.org https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solano_Avenue_Stroll 0:23:55 The Raw Skeptic Report... With Heidi Roberton News Byron Bay measles outbreak result of 'irresponsible parents' Health authorities are bracing for a measles outbreak in the anti-vax heartland of Byron Bay after a local unvaccinated child caught measles in New Zealand and returned to the town. - By Jane Hansen https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au https://www.nrvs.info 0:34:49 Vale: Skeptic and psychic debunker Robert Lancaster Robert Lancaster, noted American skeptical activist who created the website Stop Sylvia Browne, died on September 7 following a long illness from a stroke in 2008 and heart attack in 2011. In 2008, Lancaster launched the website devoted to debunking clams made by 'psychic' Sylvia Browne. His investigations revealed many instances of Browne's psychic 'visions' being entirely wrong. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/09/08/vale-skeptic-and-psychic-debunker-robert-lancaster/ 0:39:48 I think we need to think... With Susan Gerbic Susan gives us an overview of recent Wikipedia updates. https://abouttimeproject.wordpress.com/guerrilla-skepticism-on-wikipedia/ https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonard_Pozner https://www.meetup.com/Skeptics-in-the-Pub/events/264599424 0:47:53 Nutshell Wiki with Moriel Schottlender You need a great cheat sheet? Summarize quick references? Quick notes to remind people about a great historical event? Help improve Nutshell Wiki by adding content. You can start browsing the current categories, improve the current articles, or add your own. https://nutshell.wiki/wiki/Main_Page Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:11 Jonathan Jarry We talk to one Canadian who has had it up to the ears with Ear Candles. Jonathan's video on the subject details his investigations into this pillar of quackery. https://youtu.be/-GfunNxHHkw https://jonathanjarry.com/ 0:22:03 Measles alert for travellers to New Zealand NSW Health is urging NSW residents to be fully vaccinated against measles before travelling to New Zealand where almost 1000 cases have been reported this year. So far in 2019, four measles cases have been introduced to NSW from New Zealand travellers, and that number could rapidly increase due to a recent surge of cases in New Zealand since early August. https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/Pages/20190905_00.aspx 0:29:15 Maynard's Spooky Action... Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask pubbers this month's question - Was there one moment or event that turned you into a skeptic? http//www.maynard.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au