The Skeptic Zone

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:55 Dragon*Con 2019 Dr Angie Mattke and a Walking Tour We chat to Dr Angie Mattke to get a taste of things to come over the next few days, followed by a walking tour of Dragon*Con, accompanied by Adam Bovalino from Melbourne, to help get our bearings. https://www.dragoncon.org 0:12:00 Interview with Jennifer Hathorn American Association for the Advancement of Science At a time when STEM education is struggling to produce graduates with the qualities and skills to keep the United States' science and technology sectors competitive, AAAS provides a variety of programs to make sure talent and interest in scientific endeavors are nurtured. http://www.aaas.org 0:17:22 Dragon*Con Vendors A walk through the giant rooms devoted to selling everything under many suns for fantacy fans. 0:24:16 Pharmacy Fantasy From the pages of 'The Skeptic', Loretta Marron looks at a disturbing attempt by pharmacists to woo customers ... with woo. https://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skeptic Zone LIVE at Dragon*Con 2019 An interview with Margaret Downey. Also dice predictions with Evan Bernstein. https://vimeo.com/357932554 http://video.skeptrack.org A / V by Calico Cove, LLC

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:25 Isil Arican and Cuneyt Ozdas Learn how Isil and Cuneyt help to promote science and scepticism in Turkey and around the world. https://yalansavar.org/podcast/ http://www.acikbilim.com/ 0:20:55 Looking for Woo in Berkeley join Richard Saunders as he wanders along the streets of Berkeley in California, looking for strange and mysterious claims made on shopfronts. https://goo.gl/maps/sFre2sxqjaf9vS3o6 0:31:47 I think we need to think... With Susan Gerbic Susan gives us an update on recent Wikipedia updates. https://abouttimeproject.wordpress.com/guerrilla-skepticism-on-wikipedia/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Detoxification_foot_baths https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Facilitated_communication https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deej https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Return_to_Love https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mind-body_interventions https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Australian_Bird_Guide 0:41:11 Full Moon and Empty Heads A commonly-held belief has it that various social phenomena are associated with the phases of the moon. Such is the strength of this belief, achieving folk-lore status in many societies, that it is accepted almost without question, especially by the popular media. - Barry Williams https://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au https://www.meetup.com/Mordi-Skeptics-in-the-Pub/

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:16 Zealot with Jo Thornley Why would anyone join a cult? Maybe they're unhappy with their current religion, or they want to change the world, or they're disappointed with their lives and want to find something bigger or holier that makes sense of this confusing, chaotic and dangerous world. Or maybe they just want to give themselves the best possible chance of having sex with aliens. https://www.amazon.com.au/Zealot-about-cults-Jo-Thornely-ebook/dp/B07G58PSY6/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/zealot/id1245635983 0:23:36 The Raw Skeptic Report... With Heidi Robertson TGA cracking down on non-compliant advertising of bioresonance and similar devices In May 2019, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) commenced work on a sector-wide compliance activity relating to the advertising of 'bioresonance' devices, which are sometimes mistakenly promoted as 'biofeedback' devices. This sector has been identified as having a high rate of advertising non-compliance, with widespread advertising. https://www.tga.gov.au/node/875057 0:32:27 An Innocent Among the UFOnauts Sometimes you let yourself in for things that, on mature reflection, you probably wish you hadn't. In September I agreed to speak at the Great Australian Science Show in Sydney and gave as the title of my talk "I was abducted by a UFO". - Barry Williams https://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Trish Hann on the radio (at 9m 30s) https://www.abc.net.au/radio/canberra/programs/afternoons/afternoons/11389628

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:55 Interview with Pontus Bockman Pontus discovered skepticism in 2010 and soon thereafter became deeply involved in local activism, such as organising Skeptics in the Pub and giving lectures on skepticism in local schools in his native Sweden. The ESP http://theesp.eu European Skeptics Congress 2019 https://www.esc2019.be 0:26:30 Super Science Saturday Ian Bryce and Richard Saunders from The Mystery Investigators once again bring their science show to the Australian Museum in Sydney. http://www.mysteryinvestigators.com 0:38:30 Vinegar Can be Used for What? In 1996 Glenn Cardwell sent in a complaint about an advertisement for 'The Vinegar Book'. This report from the pages of the Skeptic Magazine details the reaction he received. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Curious Recollections - Book https://www.wakefieldpress.com.au Surf Coast Skepicamp https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-spring-skepticamp-2019-september-tickets-62100278605 Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:20 Interview with Derek Colanduno We catch up with one of the original skeptical podcasters. Derek gives us an overview of the early days of 'Skepticality' and sets the scene for the upcoming Skeptrack at Dragon*Con 2019 in Atlanta. http://skeptics.dragoncon.org 0:20:21 Nominations open for the Bent Spoon Award From psychics to quacks, TV shows and racing car drivers, the Australian Skeptics Bent Spoon Award has a colourful list of past winners. Can you help find a worthy recipient for 2019? https://www.skeptics.com.au/features/bent-spoon/ 0:30:23 Skeptics Investigate "psychic surgery" The very first story in the very first issue of "The Skeptic" magazine from Australian Skeptics. Melbourne skeptics take on a psychic surgeon. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:41:30 The Think Tank with James Randi A blast from the past. In 2012 James Randi visited Melbourne to take part in the Australian Skeptcs national convention. We took the opportunity to invite him to join us in a recording of the Think Tank. Also featuring that well known goose, Maynard. Also https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-spring-skepticamp-2019-september-tickets-62100278605 https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/Mordi-Skeptics-in-the-Pub/ https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/SocialSkepticsCanberra/ Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Skeptic Zone Promo .wav - 30 sec. Download Here

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:28 A Random RANT! With Dr Paulie Stories of people being terrified by Yowie like creatures go back decades and had their heyday in the 1970s when it seems some here in Australia were somewhat jealous or maybe inspired by the reports coming out of North America. It was a golden age for UFOs, Psychics such as Uri Geller, the Loch Ness monster and BigFoot sightings. All good fun at the time and as the years went by interest both here in Australia and in the USA tapered off. But not completely. https://www.gcskeptics.com 0:13:15 An interview with Evan Bernstein We catch up with the SGU rouge and find out about the upcoming trip to New Zealand and Australia. Evan is a co-host of The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe and The Skeptics Guide 5×5 podcasts. He also serves as the Connecticut chapter chairman of the New England Skeptical Society. Evan is a technical adviser for official NESS investigations, and is the SGU's audio engineer for live remote events. https://skepticon.org.au https://conference.skeptics.nz 0:25:33 Cool Appraisals of Cold Readers Margaret Dent claimed to talk with dead people. She maked money from performing, using this claim as the basis of her show. Richard Saunders attended one her shows in 2004. 0:39:14 TV 'Test' of Psychics Re-bunking an Unsinkable Rubber Duck. A look at how not to put so-called psychics to a test. Also http://www.maynard.com.au Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:47 Apollo 11 - Sydney Morning Herald 1969 MEN ON MOON U.S. astronauts open a new era for mandkind. - Man has landed on the moon. The U.S. spacecraft, Eagle, carring Neil Armstrong and Edwin Aldrin, touched down on the lunar surface early today (Sydney time). 0:12:30 Moon Landings Were No Hoax Continuing to believe that the Moon landings were faked, despite the solid evidence from many quarters that confirm the missions, despite the thorough and painstaking debunking of every major objection from the conspiracy theorists (from popular TV shows such as MythBusters to hundreds of detailed explanations online) is NOT being sceptical... it is being a science denier. It is the same mindset that leads people to deny the Earth is round or that climate change is also just another hoax. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/07/16/leaflet-on-moon-landings/ Scimandan - Flat Earth Friday https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWYePF35K6BdrC67K2TSQ1jBeOBGi2e9o 0:22:49 What is going on at Area 51? We ask Ben Radford about the history of this secretive location. Are there really aliens hidden deep within the vaults? Also will thousands of Facebookers storm the area to uncover 'the truth'? 0:41:11 I think we need to think... With Susan Gerbic Susan chats to Carlos Orsi and Natalia Pasternak, skeptics from Brazil. https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/carlos_and_natalia_are_coming_to_csicon_to_meet_you http://revistaquestaodeciencia.com.br http://www.saude.gov.br/saude-de-a-z/praticas-integrativas-e-complementares?fbclid=IwAR1c8FSNH__svmJdat8-Cq6gaKKdnWRLbcy_fwp4KA_wHKVbo5PNL59bncg Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:06:15 Maynard's Spooky Action.... Casula Powerhouse presents GIANT LEAP, a multi-arts program, which includes six new exhibitions created to mark the 50th anniversary of the moon landing in 1969. The launch and first steps on the moon were televised and watched around the world. The exhibitions provide insight into the impact of the first humans on the moon, on popular culture, on individuals and on their artwork and acknowledges the ancient and important influences of the moon in most cultures. An interview with Jenny Cheeseman - Head of Curatorial http://www.casulapowerhouse.com/whats-on/lcc-whats-on/giant-leap 0:17:15 Skeptics in the Pub with Maynard Joins us at Sydney Skeptics in the Pub as Maynard asks the big question.... 'Why do people take advice from celebrities over scientists?' 0:32:20 Skeptics in the Pub with Dr Karl Maynard's wide ranging interview with Dr Karl. 0:52:50 Britt Hermes Update Eran Segev brings us the latest good news. On May 24, 2019, the District Court (Landgericht) of Kiel, Germany ruled against Colleen Huber in a defamation lawsuit she brought against Britt. https://www.naturopathicdiaries.com/justice-prevails-cancer-quack-colleen-huber-loses-her-defamation-suit-against-me/ Also Saving A Dinosaur http://palaeopictures.com/ Canberra Skeptics - talk by Trish Hann https://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra/events/262279997/ Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:50 Harmful Homeopathic 'Cures' We interview Michael Marshall from The Good Thinking Society in the U.K. about the action being taken to fight the extreme foolishness that is Homeopathy. https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/gts-cease-psa/ 0:20:02 Chabot Space & Science Center A tour with Leonard Trameil The only thing more extraordinary than the science we are learning about the Moon is its incredible beauty. Chabot's stunning new photographic essay explores the Moon's sweeping craters and once-active volcanoes, with photos by NASA astronauts who witnessed its beautiful desolation firsthand, new views captured by their astronomers using Chabot's reflecting telescope, and images taken via satellite that allow us to explore places we have not even yet visited. https://chabotspace.org/visit/exhibits/luminous-moon/ Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Canberra Skeptics Talks https://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra/

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders and Ben Radford 0:07:04 Trish & Chips... with Trish Hann Sally Morgan is a British television and stage performer who claims to have psychic abilities. In mid 2019 she brought her stage show to Australia. On hand outside the theatre for her Sydney performance were members of Australian Skeptics. Mark Tilbrook confronted my Sally Morgan's people - video https://youtu.be/sCdvA7Lu1jM BBC News - Paul Zenon on 'Psychic Sally' - video https://youtu.be/4Xu2cUAVlr8 0:16:05 The long and the sad history of Psychic Detectives Ben Radford joins Richard Saunders to once again look into people who think they have magical, psychic powers and have plagued the police for decades. 1935, 26 January - Australian Women's Weekly https://trove.nla.gov.au 0:36:45 Interview with Tony Ortega Guest reporter Susan Gerbic interviews Tony Ortega an American blogger who is best known for his daily blog about the Church of Scientology called The Underground Bunker. https://tonyortega.org

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:06:54 Psychics and Missing Persons Again and again, so-called "Psychics" chime in with mystical informaion on missing persons. Worse still they send usless information to the Police and give false hope to heartbroken parents. We look at a few cases in the news. http://www.google.com/search?q=Theo+Hayez+Psychic http://www.google.com/search?q=William+Tyrrell+Psychic http://undeceivingourselves.org/S-ican.htm 0:23:50 Bugs in Berkeley We join Dr Eugenie Scott for a visit to the Berkeley Botanic Gardens, where we find a table dedicated to science outreach from the National Centre for Science Education. https://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu https://ncse.com 0:38:55 ESP... Sence or Nonsence? How did the popular magazine 'The Australian Woman's Weekly' cover the topic of the paranormal over 40 years ago. Find out as we dive into the pages from 1977. A report by Patricia Angly https://trove.nla.gov.au/aww https://trove.nla.gov.au/aww/read/340143?q=ESP&s=0&resultId=num2#page/18/mode/2up Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au NZ Skeptics 2019 https://conference.skeptics.nz Award for Dr Pamela Gay https://thehumanist.com/news/aha_news/meet-the-2019-isaac-asimov-science-award-recipient-pamela-gay Canberra Skeptics - talk by Trish Hann https://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra/events/262279997/ The Well Known Skeptic https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/qa-with-john-de-lancie/

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:08:10 Flat Earhers flat out with excuses We talk to Ross Blocher from the Oh No! Ross and Carrie Podcast about the day members of the Committee For Inquiry set out to prove (again) that the world really is a sphear. CFI Investigation Video https://youtu.be/CnrjdD08dWg Oh No! Ross and Carrie https://www.maximumfun.org/shows/oh-no-ross-and-carrie 0:24:42 Skeptical Con Interview Guest reporter Susan Gerbic reports from Skeptical 2019 in San Francisco where she interviews Thomas Westbrook from Holy Kool-aid on YouTube. https://youtu.be/faBIIFA5wng 0:28:50 Poles Apart Are the magnetic poles about to flip? Ken McLeod takes a break from the AVN - sort of - to look at some silly science. http://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Maynard's Love Shack and Movie nights http://www.maynard.com.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:35 Bigfoot and the FBI We catch up with famed skeptical investigator Ben Radford for his opinion on the latest news regarding Bigfoot in the FBI. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/06/us/fbi-bigfoot-file.html 0:13:13 Britt Hermes successful in defamation lawsuit Britt Hermes has been successful in the defamation law suit brought against by US naturopath Colleen Huber. On May 24, 2019, the District Court (Landgericht) of Kiel, Germany ruled against Huber in the lawsuit that Huber brought against Hermes in September 2017. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/06/04/britt-hermes-successful-in-defamation-lawsuit/ https://www.naturopathicdiaries.com/justice-prevails-cancer-quack-colleen-huber-loses-her-defamation-suit-against-me 0:19:36 Cold Feet over Cold Fusion with Ian Bryce Long time skeptical investigator from Australia Skeptics Ian Bryce has been published in the Skeptical Inquirer regarding a claim of cold fusion. 0:35:50 Where to look online for reliable, skeptical information We head to Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask pubbers where they prefer to look online to get their skeptical news and information. Potholer54 https://youtu.be/siCEByV9F7Y 0:47:26 Sad day for Embiggen As you might have heard, Embiggen Books is closing down on June 22. Embiggen has been a perennial presence on skeptical bookshelves and at Skeptics conventions from their beginnings on Queensland's Sunshine Coast to their more recent presence in Melbourne. Refusing to stock pseudoscience, they have promoted science and skepticism relentlessly, but the trials of the book trade and publishing in general have finally caught up. So, send Embiggen off with pride and at least a little cash in the pocket - go down to 197 Lt Lonsdale Street in the middle of Melbourne and buy a boxload. Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Social Canberra Skeptics https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/SocialSkepticsCanberra/

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:15 "Chemtrails" on TV Ken Mcleod is a retired air traffic controller and national manager of aviation search and rescue, Australian aviation representative on two UN committees, and once upon a time a private pilot. Recently he appeard on national TV in Australia to cross swords with a Chemtrail Conspiracy Theorist. Video: Studio 10 segment https://youtu.be/UkLfPtYiidQ 0:18:36 UFOs - the first 50 years From the pages of 'The Skeptic', the journal of Australian Skeptics. Dr Steve Roberts takes a look at how UFOs and movie cultures have interacted from the 1940s up to the 1990s. http://www.skeptics.com.au 0:38:06 Pint of Science in Canberra Belinda Wilson is a conservation ecologist who specialises in reintroduction biology, behavioural ecology, and spatial dynamics. She has worked in the university, government and private sectors, and is currently undertaking a PhD in the Fenner School of Environment and Society at The Australian National University, researching the reintroduction biology of the eastern quoll. Interview by Kevin Davies. https://www.facebook.com/ecologibel https://belindawilsonresearch.weebly.com 0:43:43 Maynard's Spooky Action.... Join Maynard and Lance Leopard in Glebe, Sydney on the 4th of June for Maynard's Movie Night. http://maynard.com.au/maynard-lance-leopard-barbarella/ Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Skepticamp Brisbane https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/skepticamp-2019-tickets-60661983626

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 CFI takes legal against Walmart Walmart is committing wide-scale consumer fraud and endangering the health of its customers though its sale and marketing of homeopathic medicines, the Center for Inquiry alleges in a lawsuit filed in the District of Columbia on May 20. We talk to Nicholas Little CFI's Vice President and General Counsel https://centerforinquiry.org/press_releases/walmart-sued-for-fraud-homeopathy/ 0:22:00 The ghost tour of haunted Melbourne On Saturday July 10, 1999, three adventurous Victorian committee members (Rosemary Sceats, Bob Nixon and Jane Curtain) embarked on a fascinating journey through "haunted Melbourne". By Jane M Curtain https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ 0:37:08 Maynard's Spooky Action.... We look at the number of votes for 'The Involuntary Medication Objectors (Vaccination/Fluoride) Party (IMOP)' at the 2019 Australian Federal Election. Also we hear from Brian Dunning about his new film 'Science Friction'. https://www.abc.net.au/news/elections/federal/2019/results/senate https://sciencefriction.tv 0:55:43 Local Council shuts door on Anti-Vaxxers The Inner West Council in Sydney is taking a strong stand for the health and safety of its local residents. http://newslocal.smedia.com.au/iw-courier-west/ Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Surf Coast Spring Skepticamp https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-spring-skepticamp-2019-september-tickets-62100278605

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:50 Down the Rabbit Hole An interview with author Mick West about his new podcast and a discussion about conspiracy theories is in general. https://www.tftrh.com 0:21:00 Skeptics Vs Psychic Surgeon In 1984, two members of Australian Skeptics went undercover to try and expose a psychic surgeon. The whole thing ended up in court with surprising results. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:52 M S S X Alice Howarth and Laurie Phillips Celebrate ten years of the Merseyside Skeptics Society at the special one-day event at the Liner Hotel in Liverpool. It's been ten years since the first meeting of the MSS, and ten years since the first episode of Skeptics with a K – the UK's longest-running skeptical podcast. http://www.merseysideskeptics.org.uk/category/mssx/ 0:13:46 Astrology in the White House Astrology, which seems to be enjoying a renaissance among millennials and Gen Xers, is only one sad example from our flabby-minded post-truth era. - By Ron Reagan https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/posteverything/wp/2019/04/25/feature/spring-cleaning-2019-eight-things-to-toss/ 0:28:50 Jessica Singer on SitP What does it take to run a Skeptics in the Pub event? We ask Jessica Singer from Australian Skeptics about her trip to vist SitP in London. http://london.skepticsinthepub.org/ 0:42:08 Maynard's Spooky Action... Once again Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to find out what people think of the large cash prize offered by Australian Skeptics. Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Skepticamp in Brisbane http://www.brisbaneskeptics.org/2019-skepticamp

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:40 No Spirts in the Spirit Box We chat to Kenny Biddle about his investigations into the strange and bizarre device known as a spirit box. Proponents of this box claim it is a conduit to communicate with the souls of the dead. https://skepticalinquirer.org/exclusive/groundbreaking-ghost-experiment-breaks-no-ground/ Geeks and Ghosts https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgVvr4HhIEKXdWu-VQplnbg 0:18:52 Susan Gerbic in the UK A catch up with Susan as she tours the UK. Also we hear about Mark Edward and his Victorian style seances. 0:27:45 A Ghostly Investigation From the pages of the Skeptic magazine, a ghostly tale of investigations with a haunted house, graveyards and a skeptical reporter. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Flu Vax Day https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/04/09/free-flu-vaccination-day-in-sydney-may-4/ Skepticalcon San Francisco http://www.skepticalcon.org Maynard's Love Shack http://www.maynard.com.au/maynards-loveshack-returns-saturday-may-4th

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:10 Interview with Professor Dave Dave Farina aka 'Professor Dave', tells us about his series of free educational videos covering many scientific disciplines. Also his battle with Flat Earthers! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0cd_-e49hZpWLH3UIwoWRA Response to Globebusters - The Earth Still Isn't Flat https://youtu.be/XONAgf9Eg9U https://professordavedebates.simplecast.fm 0:21:20 Anti-vax naturopath banned A naturopath has been banned from providing any health service by the Health Care Complaints Commission. By Jane Hansen https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/antivax-naturopath-banned-after-watchdog-puts-bite-on-her-claims/news-story/d2e196142433676619ffa45902182fd7 0:24:20 Superstition in Sport Why do some athletes cling to superstitions? A brief interview with Kristine Dun. 0:29:25 Flying Sorcery From the pages of 'The Skeptic Magazine', searching the skies for evidence of UFOs and a history of hoaxes. By Steve Roberts https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine 0:39:30 Maynard's Love Shack #2 People all over Sydney are rushing, hushing and flushing to The Red Bar in Glebe for the underrated date of Saturday May 4th, 8pm til midnight for Maynard's Loveshack. Maynard the retro DJ behind the Madd Club and many other happenings over the decades, presents a night of shameless sounds that celebrate the pop and pretentiousness of the late 20th century. http://maynard.com.au/maynards-loveshack-returns-saturday-may-4th Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:56 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the pub and asks pubbers the big question, "What topics, if any, should skeptics give up?" 0:19:24 Maynard's Spooky Action - part #2 Australia in Space. An interview with Kerrie Dougherty about Australia's involvement in the space race. Kerrie Dougherty is an independent space historian, curator and writer and a lecturer in the Space Humanities department of the International Space University. https://www.amazon.com.au/Australia-Space-Kerrie-Dougherty/dp/1925309657 0:27:10 Mind your Spirit, Body and Wallet We look at 30 years of the Mind Body Spirit festival in Australia. An interview with Tim Mendham editor of 'The Skeptic Magazine' from Australian Skeptics. 0:43:30 So-called 'Psychic Detectives' sensing nothing There's a reason police don't work with psychics. Psychics don't work. Which is a bit of an issue in the results-orientated realms in which police and search-and-rescue personnel operate. With the best will in the otherworld, not one example of face-scrunched, chest-tightening, I-feel-such-a-chill emoting has yet solved a single New Zealand murder or resolved a search. https://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/opinion/111702736/psychic-information-an-oxymoronic-offering-for-police-searches Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au Flu Vax Day https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/04/09/free-flu-vaccination-day-in-sydney-may-4/ Canberra Skeptics talk https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/SocialSkepticsCanberra/

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 Science Outreach with Dr Kate Carter Kate Carter, Director of Community Science Education at NCSE. Kate joined NCSE in 2018, after lecturing in biology and working in curriculum development and informal education. She holds a Ph.D. in human evolutionary biology from Harvard University. https://www.ncse.com 0:26:10 The Raw Skeptic Report... with Heidi Robertson Something does smell right in New Zealand Schools. An Auckland primary school has pulled therapeutic diffusers from the classroom after a high court threat from a parent who said the essential oils could trigger asthma attacks. Heidi looks into Essential Oils. What are they, what of the claims and do they live up to them? https://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?objectid=12217639 0:42:00 Mind Body Spirit and Money Thursday, November 16, 1989, was an auspicious day for the New Age in Australia. It marked the opening of the four-day Festival for Mind, Body, Spirit, what is surely the largest gathering so far of New Age marketing yet held in this country. https://www.skeptics.com.au Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au https://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra/

Show Notes 0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:10 What would Darwin say... A interview with Dr Eugenie Scott about what she thinks Charles Darwin would have to say to today's 'Young Earth Creationists'. 0:14:55 Measles Outbreak Emergency New York county declares Measles outbreak emergency. Rockland County, north of New York City, has barred unvaccinated children from public spaces after 153 cases were confirmed. Also Measles fear in the Bay Area. https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2019/03/26/measles-santa-clara-county-apple-stanford-macys-exposure/ 0:25:15 Millbrae Skeptics in the Pub We head to Millbrae Skeptics in the Pub, near SFO Airport, to enjoy a Guinness, a meal and good company. We ask the big question, 'should you argue with somebody who is wrong on the Internet?' With Greg Dorais, Leonard Tramiel and more. https://www.meetup.com/Bay-Area-Skeptics/ http://bayareascience.org/calendar/ 0:41:20 Australian Skeptics looking for 'psychic detectives' Many self-professed psychics claim to have assisted police by providing "insights" into the whereabouts of missing persons, finding evidence, etc. The newspaper headline "Psychic helps in huntforwoman" is commonplace, but rarely do we hear of any follow-up on how useful the psychic's advice (or the newspapers) would lead one to believe. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au https://www.meetup.com/AustSkeptics https://www.meetup.com/Mordi-Skeptics-in-the-Pub/

0:00:00 Australian Skeptics Inc on Christchurch Tragedy Australian Skeptics Inc (and this podcast) is deeply saddened by the horrific terrorist attack in Christchurch on Friday which targeted the Muslim community. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/03/19/aust-skeptics-inc-on-christchurch-tragedy/ 0:03:15 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:06:13 Social Media Crackdown on Anti-Vax More and more social media outlets are cracking down on the misinformation of the anti-VAX crowd. https://thehill.com/policy/technology/435207-instagram-to-block-anti-vaccine-hashtags-amid-misinformation-crackdown https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-anti-vaccine-crack-down/ https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/03/22/gofundme-joins-facebook-instagram-and-pinterest-anti-vax-crackdown/3249907002/ https://www.cnn.com/2019/03/20/health/kentucky-governor-children-chickenpox/index.html 0:20:50 The Raw Skeptic Report... With Heidi Robertson Past winner of the Australian Skeptics bent spoon award Pete Evans, now seems to be jumping into the murky waters of Anti-VAX rhetoric and 5G fears. 0:36:50 Readers' Indigestible From the pages of "The Skeptic" magazine, the Journal from Australian Skeptics. Tim Mendham looks at those 'other' publications, where skepticism is a dirty word ... sometimes. One is an extreme example of niceness, with lashings of all things New Age that will give you a sugar rush of epic proportions. The other is more down to earth ... literally. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ Also Skepticon 2019 https://skepticon.org.au

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:10:20 Pete Evans, anti-vaxxer? Celebrity chef Pete Evans supports anti-vaxxer Paul Chek on social media. Jane Hansen, The Daily Telegraph https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/celebrity-chef-pete-evans-supports-antivaxxer-paul-chek-on-social-media/news-story/219eacad3c620dbe2c01df9541109478 0:13:00 Life is Wild... With Michelle Franklin Only in.... Darwin? Michelle takes a look at the "only in..." meme. 0:20:45 PhD Called into Question Review finds Wilyman anti-vax PhD "incomplete", "biased" and "flawed" A recent study by four researchers has raised serious concerns over the notorious PhD thesis by leading anti-vaxxer Judy Wilyman, which earned her a PhD from the University of Wollongong in 2015. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/03/05/review-finds-wilyman-anti-vax-phd-incomplete-biased-and-flawed/ 0:28:30 GMO Only Kevin Davies interviews Jose Barrero and Marina Trigueros. GMOonly is an initiative dedicated to the promotion of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and the sale of products made with GMOs. They are the first brand proud to show upfront the benefits of using GMOs. https://www.gmoonly.com/about 0:35:05 Aust Skeptics Inc statement on climate change After more than 60 years of research, the agreement among scientists is that the climate is changing and that this change is mostly human-induced. The agreement is as strong as that concerning evolution and the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Among experts, disagreement about the core elements is almost non-existent. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/03/15/aust-skeptics-inc-statement-on-climate-change/ Also Canberra Skeptics https://www.meetup.com/SocialSkepticsCanberra/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:15 New Zealand Dowser Dollors Down Drain We interview the Chair of New Zealand Skeptics, Craig Shearer about how Wellington ratepayers are funding a pseudo-scientific method to find buried water pipes. The contractor, Downer and the Wellington City Council are not concerned at the public's perception their money has been spent on disproved science. Rather than use electronic equipment, a Downer contractor working on a Wellington City Council project used two copper rods to tell him where pipes lay. https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2019/03/06/471504/wellington-ratepayers-foot-bill-for-pseudo-science https://skeptics.nz 0:23:33 Mike Willesee, Skeptics Winner and Loser Australian journalist Mike Willesee has died at the age of 76 after a long battle with throat cancer. He is noted as the only person to win both positive and negative awards from Australian Skeptics. He had a long, largely positive, relationship with the Skeptics during the 1980s, but less positive during the 1990s. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/03/01/mike-willesee-trailblazing-journalist-skeptics-winner-and-loser/ Signs from God video https://youtu.be/GYhdKpGwqXI 0:37:08 Old Folk Remedies We head for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to find out if pubbers remember some old folk remedies from years ago. Also Maynard's DJ Gig in Sydney https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=468290 Richard Saunders' Bay Area Skeptics talk, 14th March http://baskeptics.org

0:00:00 Introduction Maynard 0:03:22 How to catch a "Psychic" We talk to Susan Gerbic about her Sting Operation to catch out an alleged psychic. Does he get his information from the heavens? Seems more likely from 'The Cloud'! Inside the Secret Sting Operations to Expose Celebrity Psychics - New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/26/magazine/psychics-skeptics-facebook.html Buckle Up - Seatbelt Psychic https://www.csicop.org/specialarticles/show/buckle_up_-_seatbelt_psychic Thomas John (The Seatbelt Psychic) - Busted for Cheating! - Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faBIIFA5wng 0:24:08 Homeopathetic From the pages of 'The Skeptic Magazine', a report by Jim Goulter. "I was disturbed to find a pamphlet entitled Homoeopathy, The quiet achiever of HIV/AIDS treatment. The extravagant claims of the feature article so confidently elucidated, set me wondering as to the value of my impending immunisation." https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ Also Maynard's DJ Gig in Sydney https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=468290 Richard Saunders' Bay Area Skeptics talk, 14th March http://baskeptics.org Canberra Skeptics Talks https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/SocialSkepticsCanberra/ Richard Saunders' talk at Sydney Skeptics in the Pub https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/AustSkeptics/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:45 Melbourne chiropractor 'treats' baby on video A Melbourne chiropractor filmed manipulating a two-week-old boy has been banned from treating children aged under 12 while he is investigated by authorities. https://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/chiro-faces-investigation-after-baby-video/news-story/27b05e049f94504453a63cc22834a1fa 0:14:30 Interview with Dr John Cunningham - Views on Chiropractic treatments John Cunningham is an Australian-trained orthopaedic surgeon who has committed his professional life to the treatment of patients with spinal disorders. His opinion and knowledge of spinal disorders, especially those of the ageing spine, spinal trauma and spinal imbalance, are respected world wide, and he has an active clinical research programme. He is fully abreast of all current techniques and science relating to the treatment of spinal conditions and has a special interest in spondylolisthesis. https://cunningham.com.au/ 0:28:35 CHIRO V GP – WHO'S MORE QUALIFIED? Is it true that GPs and chiropractors do much the same level of training and are thus equally qualified to practice primary healthcare? Should chiropractors play the role that GPs currently do as the first stop for medical consultation? The argument used by chiropractors to practice as primary healthcare is that they must go through the same level of medical training as GPs, including the same courses, and are thus as qualified to offer primary healthcare as GPs. The question is whether this is true. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2016/02/22/chiro-and-gp-whos-more-qualified/ 0:39:10 Maynard's Spooky Action! Maynard does a follow-up report on the pill testing at music events issue. Interviews with Shane Greenup, Sophie and Dr Alex Wodak. 0:47:43 ASI position statement on "gay conversion therapy" Australian Skeptics Inc. (ASI) commends Daniel Andrews and the Victorian government for the recently announced plan to ban "gay conversion therapy" across the state. These church-based therapies are not based on scientific evidence, have been proven not to work, and are well known to cause physical and psychological harm. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2019/02/20/asi-position-statement-on-gay-conversion-therapy/ Also Maynard 's DJ Gig in Sydney https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=468290

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:35 Interview with Mark Edward Mark Edward is a professional mentalist who specializes in magic of the mind. He has spent more than 25 years in world-class venues from high-end night clubs and theaters to hundreds of private party and corporate events. As one of only five specially chosen and trained mediums in the history of Hollywood's famed Magic Castle, he has performed 15 years of seances that helped him perfect the role of spirit medium and psychic entertainer. https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Psychic-Blues-Audiobook/B07ND6HDWH 0:19:40 Psychic or just Sick? From the pages of 'The Skeptic Magazine. Is there any harm in psychic acts? "It made my stomach turn to have to watch it. It was dreadful. The subject matter was just trivialised and thrown away. The real actual pain and grief of the people who were there to get some sought of connection, looking for hope and desperately trying to have closure on their pain, was just washed over in light entertainment." - By Peter Booth https://www.skeptics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/magazine/The%20Skeptic%20Volume%2025%20(2005)%20No%202.pdf 0:36:45 The Diet Skeptic... with Mandy-Lee Noble This week Mandy-Lee gives us an overview of her training to become an editor for Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia. https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Jessica_Ainscough 0:46:53 Maynard's Spooky DJ Action! Maynard the DJ behind the Madd Club and many other happenings over the decades, presents a night of shameless sounds that cerebrate the pop and pretentiousness of the late 20th century. Saturday 16 March 2019 at 8:00pm LOCATION Red Bar 36 Glebe Point Rd (Upstairs), Glebe, NSW 2037 https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=468290 Also https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-summer-skepticamp-vii-tickets-51130149654

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:05 Shoot for the Moon We chat to Prof. Richard Wiseman about his new book based on the Apollo Moon missions, 'Shoot for the Moon'. Books on success usually focus on genetically gifted Olympians, hardheaded CEOs and risk taking entrepreneurs. This book presents a radically different perspective on how to achieve your aims and ambitions. https://richardwiseman.wordpress.com/2019/01/28/shoot-for-the-moon/ https://www.youtube.com/user/Quirkology 0:15:50 FSM welcomes new President Monash University Associate Professor Ken Harvey AM is the new President of Friends of Science in Medicine. He replaces Professor John Dwyer AO, the founding president. Friends of Science in Medicine, founded in 2011, has grown to become a major critic of unscientific health practices and fraudulent health claims. It has advised governments and media, made numerous submissions to enquiries and provided extensive public advice concerning dubious health claims and practices https://www.scienceinmedicine.org.au/2019/02/06/fsm-welcomes-new-president/ 0:20:42 Citizen science Interviews with Paul Flemons from the Australian Museum and Patrick Tegart from the Office of Environment and Heritage. Citizen Science programs provide a very important source of data about biodiversity. Data and insights gained through the efforts of citizen scientists enable us to learn more about our environments by creating additional data sources. https://australianmuseum.net.au/get-involved/citizen-science/ https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/research-and-publications/your-research/citizen-science 0:27:40 Testing a 'Psychic' claim From the pages of 'The Skeptic Magazine', we re-visit the time Australian Skeptics attempted to test a man who claimed to have something like psychic powers. Report by Ian Bryce. https://www.skeptics.com.au/the-magazine/ 0:41:35 Trish & Chips! With Trish Hann Our reporter Trish Hann heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask, "Who should be the Patron Saint of Skepticism?" With Tim Mendham, Jessica Singer, Ian Bryce, Richard Saunders and Jessica Hazzard-White Also https://canberraskeptics.org

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:50 Who is 'The Well-Known Skeptic'? We chat to Rob Palmer, a listener to the Skeptic Zone who has gone on to be involved with investigations and reports. https://www.csicop.org/specialarticles/archive/category/the_well-known_skeptic 0:15:40 Homeopathy Exposed - Again! Australian Skeptics has long regarded homeopathy as little more than outdated quackery. In 2002 Richard Saunders and Peter Bowditch busted homeopaths giving some awful advice at a Babies Expo. https://www.skeptics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/magazine/The%20Skeptic%20Volume%2025%20(2005)%20No%202.pdf 0:26:00 Remembering Barry Williams A year after his death, we remember famed Australian Skeptic Barry Williams. From 2002 a radio interview with science braodcaster Stuart Gary.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:20 Oh Yow! Oh Yowie! Reports are coming in of a large, unearthly creature attacking a delivery truck in Australia. We talk to famed investigator Ben Radford from the Squaring the Strange podcast to hear his thoughts on this strange and frightening event. https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/5868252/qld-truckie-claims-yowie-bashed-his-bonnet/?cs=7 https://squaringthestrange.libsyn.com 0:15:45 Trish & Chips! With Trish Hann This week Trish interviews Dr Bard McKay to learn his opinion on pill testing at music events. With a number of deaths reported, is it time to try a different, more science-based approach? https://www.drbradmckay.com.au 0:36:48 A trip to the California Academy of Sciences The California Academy of Sciences is a research institute and natural history museum in San Francisco, California, that is among the largest museums of natural history in the world, housing over 26 million specimens. https://www.calacademy.org

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:24 Oh No! It's Ross Blocher! We travel to the city of Portland, Oregon to see the live show of 'Oh No Ross and Carrie!' http://www.maximumfun.org/shows/oh-no-ross-and-carrie 0:10:40 Climate Science and Educational Outreach In Oakland, California we visit the National Science for Science Education to interview Brad Hoge, Director of teacher support. Brad joined NCSE in 2017 to help steward NCSEteach into its next phase. He has been a classroom teacher, a children's museum curator, a research scientist, and a science educator, including working as an associate professor at the University of Houston - Downtown. He holds a Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Rice University, and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M. http://www.ncse.com 0:36:16 Science Friction and Bigfoot As the snow falls, we chat to Brian Dunning from the Skeptoid podcast about the latest updates with his movie project. Then it's onto our favourite topic Bigfoot! https://sciencefriction.tv

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:15 Ear Candles: the outcome of TGA complaint Ear candling is a widely promoted alternative medical practice that involves inserting and lighting a hollow candle in the ear canal. It is claimed that candling creates a vacuum that removes wax and that it can also relieve ear ache, glue ear, tinnitus, sinus problems, chronic headache, migraine, sore throat, allergies and many more conditions. In fact, ear candles and candling are ineffective and dangerous. http://www.medreach.com.au/?p=3202 0:14:22 Life is Wild... With Michelle Franklin Cane Toads are a huge problem in the north of Australia. Michelle casts a skeptical eye over a plan to control their numbers. 0:23:00 Trish & Chips! Our new reporter Trish Hann heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask, "Why are the public cynical of Climate Change?" With Tim Mendham, Jessica Singer, Lynden Shields, Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz and Ben Mcavoy. 0:32:12 What is Quackery? From the pages of `The Skeptic` magazine, Dr Richard Gordon GP gives us his overview on quackery.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:00 GSoW at the Exploratorium We join Susan Gerbic, Mark Edward and Jay Diamond for a day at the Exploratorium in San Francisco. https://www.exploratorium.edu 0:21:30 Life is Wild... With Michelle Franklin The Great Emu Invasion. A cautionary tale of what happens when people try to control nature. 0:31:45 Wikimedia from the inside We catch up with Moriel Schottlender, champion of the round earth, who gives us a tour of the Wikimedia headquarters in San Francisco. Skeptic Zone interview with Moriel about the Flat Earthers http://skepticzone.libsyn.com/the-skeptic-zone-480-31dec2017 0:45:42 The Diet Skeptic... with Mandy-Lee Noble Naturopath under investigation for aledged claims of cancer treatment and bad breast-feeding advice. Story by Jane Hansen. Naturopathy or naturopathic medicine is a form of alternative medicine that employs an array of pseudoscientific practices branded as "natural", "non-invasive", and as promoting "self-healing". Also Surf Coast Skepticamp https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-summer-skepticamp-vii-tickets-51130149654

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:40 The Raw Skeptic Report... With Heidi Robertson This week Heidi has a follow up by Jane Hansen to last week's story from the recent ABC TV 7:30 Report on "No Jab - No Play". This is followed by another report by Jane Hansen on the improvment to vaccination rates in Australia, despite the efforts of the Anti-Vax crowd. https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/vaccines-are-safe-and-antivax-parents-are-punishing-their-own-kids-say-doctors-and-grieving-parents/news-story/f6dfd32857611bf6d52d8f4a6c46e9e9 0:15:53 Astrology... Still Bunk From the pages of 'The Skeptic' magazine from Australia, Vol. 4 No. 3 - An astronomer's view of astrology. By Philip A. Ianna. One of the impressive things about astrology today is the extent to which it pervades our culture. More people know their sun sign than know their own blood type, and after hundreds of years of very astrology beginning 5000 years you can find zodiac motifs on almost anything. https://www.skeptics.com.au/wp-content/uploads/magazine/The%20Skeptic%20Volume%204%20(1984)%20No%203.pdf 0:32:20 The Diet Skeptic... with Mandy-Lee Noble For this week's (almost) New Year's Eve Diet Skeptic Report dietitian Mandy-Lee Noble has been inspired by social media encouraging us to kick off 2019 with a diet! And the one diet that seems to be the most popular this year is the keto or ketogenic diet. 0:43:42 Things Anti-Vaxxers Say The internet is full of wisdom... it's just that it can get lost with all the stupidity. With Maynard as the voice of reason and Richard as the voice of.... crazy! https://www.buzzfeed.com/daves4/please-get-the-vaccines Also SkeptiCamp Monterey 2019 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/skepticamp-monterey-2019-tickets-5379955692 Surf Coast Skepticamp https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-summer-skepticamp-vii-tickets-51130149654

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:322 The Raw Skeptic Report... With Heidi Robertson This week Heidi gives some background to the recent ABC TV 7:30 Report story on "No Jab - No Play". 7:30 Report https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=V1ySAvY8Ao0 https://thenewdaily.com.au/life/wellbeing/2018/12/19/critics-no-jab-no-play-anti-vaxxers/ https://www.patheos.com/blogs/withoutacrystalball/2018/12/no-jab-no-play-anti-vax 0:24:22 Message from Britt Hermes Britt Hermes is an American former naturopath and noted skeptical campaigner, who has spent much time and effort lately in campaigning against naturopathic practices. She is the author of the blog Naturopathic Diaries. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2018/12/18/britt-hermes-campaign-an-update-on-the-defamation-case 0:21:00 Maynard's Spooky Action This week Maynard chats to Science Communicator Officer at Sydney Uni., Tom Gordon. https://physics-people.sydney.edu.au/physics/staff_details.jsp?ID=1145 0:35:10 Australian Medical Position Statement on Complementary Medicine Complementary medicine includes a wide range of products and treatments with therapeutic claims that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. https://ama.com.au/position-statement/ama-position-statement-complementary-medicine-2018 Also https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-summer-skepticamp-vii-tickets-51130149654

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:35 Grain of Salt... With Eran Segev Interview with Edva Lotan from Midaat Fighting Anti-Vax nonsense and promoting good health. Midaat was established with the goal of aiding the public in Israel to gain necessary information, identify health risks, and protect itself from those risks. http://midaat.org.il/midaat/midaat_english/ 0:24:22 Maynard's Spooky Action The last of the Skepticon interviews with Dr Ian Musgrave, Dr Brad McKay and Kate Browne 0:32:44 Misleading and Unsafe Practices by Anti-Vaccination Campaigners The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission has received multiple complaints regarding misleading and unsafe practices by anti-vaccination (anti-vax) campaigners and the potential risks that such persons and associations pose to the public health and safety. http://www.hccc.nsw.gov.au 0:41:05 Silly Season with Maynard and Richard at the Skeptic Zone Christmas Party Local news photographers are hugely skilled and poorly paid, and get sent to photograph miserable people gurning at uncooked meat products. Maynard and Richard take look at this silly but fun site. http://apiln.blogspot.com New Year's Eve with Maynard LIVE https://www.thejuniors.com.au/shop/item/new-years-eve-2018 Also https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/surf-coast-summer-skepticamp-vii-tickets-51130149654 Local news

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:35 Maynard's Spooky Action Skepticon interview with Carrie Poppy http://www.facebook.com/onrac 0:26:00 Sydney Skeptics in the Pub for December We ask pubbers what podcasts they would like to hear. With Trish, Jessica, Rowland, Gavin and Jessica Singer. 0:42:00 The Raw Skeptic Report... with Heidi Robertson Release of NCIRS 2017 Immunisation Coverage Report and Australian Immunisation Register Data Transfer Study Report. Two new reports released by the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) shine a bright new light on immunisation coverage in Australia. http://www.ncirs.org.au 0:49:37 Megaquake for Christmas? 'Quake mystic' Frank Hoogerbeets warns cosmic event could 'trigger megaquake' over Christmas https://www.news.com.au/technology/environment/quake-mystic-frank-hoogerbeets-warns-cosmic-event-could-trigger-megaquake-over-christmas/news-story/8d302c7dc630923b524c11585449ee7e https://www.ditrianum.org Also Canberra Skeptics https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/SocialSkepticsCanberra/ Mordi Skeptics https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/Mordi-Skeptics-in-the-Pub/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:20 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2018 Part #6 Lee Murray Dr Pamela Gay Luke Freeman Dr Vyom Sharmer 0:33:35 Anti-vax activist charges parents $4000 for 'expert report' An anti-vaccination activist with no medical training is charging $4000 for an "expert report" to present in court cases to help parents who do not want to have their children vaccinated. - By Jane Hansen https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au 0:38:00 Radio Skeptics Sydney radio from a few years back with Richard Saunders talking about Chemtrails and Yowies.

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:40 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2018 Part #5 Kate Browne Dr Vyom Sharmer Eran Segev and more https://www.finder.com.au/ 0:25:00 Science Friction with Brian Dunning Finally, a documentary about scientists who get misrepresented by the media. Those TV documentaries you see, and the science experts they feature? Did you know that producers often edit them out of context, and twist their words, to make it seem like they promoted some pop sensationalism instead of the real facts? Science Friction is going to expose these faux documentaries by name, and will give the scientists a chance to clear the record. https://sciencefriction.tv/ 0:40:00 Maynard with Fiona Patten The Reason Party stands for forward-thinking, evidence-based and inclusive change for Victoria. We represent reasonable people who want real change for the better. https://reasonvic.org.au/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:00 Susan Gerbic from GSoW Update on Facilitated Communication https://www.facebook.com/GSoWproject 0:16:04 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2018 Part #4 Magicians Nick Kay and Peter Rodgers https://nickkaymagic.com 0:37:27 Life is Wild! With Michelle Franklin Bio Control https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SkeptiCamp

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:25 Maynard and Richard's Spooky Action... Interviews from the Oz Paranormal & Spiritual Expo 2018 Good Games Miranda https://www.goodgames.com.au/au/stores/nsw/miranda.html Cast from Dungeon fx https://castfromdungeonfx.com UFO PRSA http://www.ufosociety.net.au Secret Witch Business https://www.facebook.com/secretwitchbiz/ Oz Paratech https://ozparatech.com/ APPI Ghost Hunts & Tours https://www.appighosthunts.com/ Beth Darlington https://www.accessparanormal.com/ Peet Banks https://www.ozparaexpo.com.au/ 0:32:25 Massimo Polidoro and Stranger Stories Randi Tricks the Trickster. How was the Amazing Randi able to break a spoon and read inside a sealed envelope during an unexpected challenge on a TV show in Canada? Here Randi reveals his secret... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHiMHkvIz0M 0:44:14 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2018 Part #3 Mal Vickers Yvette d'Entremont, also known as The SciBabe Part #3 Kirsten Banks Dr Pamela Gay

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:20 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2018 Yvette d'Entremont, also known as The SciBabe Part #2 Adam Reakes - Ruth Ellison - Tim Mendham - Jessica Singer http://www.herdmentalitypodcast.com/ https://crankybot.com/ 0:27:15 Trish Hann and the risks of avoiding Ante Natal Care This week Trish talks about the red flags and dangers of home birthing and the reluctance of some to take advantage of basic medical procedures. 0:35:15 Skeptics in the Pub Pine Gap talk with David Rosenberg. Interviews from the bar stools. https://www.amazon.com/Pine-Gap-David-Rosenberg-ebook/dp/B07H3488C7

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:20 Crowd Interviews from Skepticon 2018 We chat to Mandy-Lee Noble Heidi Robertson The GSoW Team Dr Sue Blackmore 0:13:33 Aust Skeptics Campaigns and Investigations – have your say Australian Skeptics Inc is regularly involved in a range of campaigns and investigations, some of which have been well-publicised (like the investigation of the PowerBalance wrist band), and others that are on-going and still under wraps. This is your chance to get involved. Feel free to contact us with tips and suggestions. You might also like to add your own active contribution and play a part in the campaign and/or investigation itself. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2018/10/01/aust-skeptics-campaigns-and-investigations-have-your-say/ 0:17:42 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon 2018 Yvette d'Entremont, also known as The SciBabe Part #1 Dr Vyom Sharma Trish Hann Also... RSVP for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub with David Rosenberg https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/AustSkeptics/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:15 Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews from Skepticon Trivia Night Maynard chats to Mandy-Lee Noble Jo Benhamu Beth Darlington Dr Sue Blackmore Kirsten Banks Dr Pamela Gay 0:21:25 Australian Skeptics Awards for 2018 The Bent Spoon - The Fred - The Wallaby - Life Memberships https://www.skeptics.com.au/2018/10/13/a-bad-day-for-sarah/ 0:26:50 Jane Hansen A chat with the winner of the inaugural Barry Williams Award for Skeptical Journalism. Jane Hansen, reporter for News Corp, has written extensively on the anti-vaccination and anti-fluoride movements, fad diets, and quack cures. 0:34:20 Maynard with Dr Karl What is Dr Karl's advice when confronted by tricky questions over dinner? http://drkarl.com/ 0:39:00 Pine Gap Book Launch We ask author David Rosenberg about Australia's "Area 51". https://www.pinegapbook.com/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:20 Mark Mayer and so-called "Psychic Detectives" From 2005 an interview with the Melbourne magician about his investigations. 0:16:18 Mind Body Wallet for October 2018 Once again we head for the newage fair. 0:25:38 Maynard's Spooky Action... Sydney Skeptics in the Pub and some questions about the science of music. Can you produce a hit song if you know the formula?

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:20 Carrie Poppy Direct from Hollywood, we chat to Carrie about her upcoming trip to Australia and about the Oh No Ross and Carrie Podcast. http://www.maximumfun.org/shows/oh-no-ross-and-carrie 0:16:18 Maynard's Spooky Cat ActionAn interview with cat expert Dr Dr Kersti Seksel from the Sydney Animal Behaviour Service http://sabs.com.au/staff_profiles.htm 0:25:38 We announce the MC for the Skepticon Dinner 0:26:26 Shonky Awards 2018In the firing line are Bioglan homeopathic melatonin and Magnetic therapy devices from Dick Wicks and BioMagnetic Sport. https://www.choice.com.au/shonky-awards 0:36:45 David Rosenberg and Pine GapMaynard interview the technical adviser for the new ABC TV series. https://tv.press.abc.net.au/new-thriller-pine-gap-launches-in-october https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Pine-Gap-Came-Desert/dp/1742701736

0:00:00IntroductionRichard Saunders 0:04:28Life is Wild! With Michelle Franklin The problem of poachingEndangered species that are killed, so that their bones and eyes and various other equally useless body parts can fail to cure anything from malaria to broken arms. 0:23:30Anti-vaccination activist turns expert witness in family court immunisation brawl The country's most prominent anti-vaccination activist is claiming to be an expert witness in a family legal brawl over whether their children should be immunised. - By Kylar Loussikianhttps://www.theage.com.au/national/anti-vaccination-activist-turns-expert-witness-in-family-court-immunisation-brawl-20180922-p505dk.html 0:32:00Maynard's Spooky Action....Talk to the Animals - Part #1During science week, Maynard met up with no end of animal experts has he hosted a public talk in Parramatta. Deborah and Caroline from WIREShttps://www.wires.org.au/branch/sydneynorthwest Dr Grace Thurtell from Sydney Animal Behaviour Servicehttp://www.sabs.com.auDr. Matthew Bulbert – Lab Leader Conflict Ecologyhttps://conflictecology.com/lab-members/ 0:43:40The Raw Skeptic Report... with Heidi Robertson Byron Bay has become the anti-vaxxer's paradise - by Jane Hansen Two babies have died from whooping cough in the region as a result of the lack of herd immunity. Barely a week goes by without schools sending out the letter that yet another child has whooping cough.https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/rendezview/byron-bay-has-become-the-antivaxxers-paradise/news-story/2828a5edfe78d3820b6c1f70dd55ec5dhttps://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/ Also... RSVP for Australian Skeptics FREE Friday night trivia and meetup 12 Oct. Convention tickets for Skepticon 2018 https://www.skeptics.com.au/event/national-convention/

0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:28 The Raw Skeptic Report... with Heidi Robertson Heidi tells us of her efforts, via her local council, to stop the Anti-Vax crowd from using council facilities in the Byron Shire of NSW. 0:23:30 The end of the world put on hold..... again. DATELINE AUSTRALIA – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – TSUNAMI HITS SYDNEY Yesterday, September 20th 2018 at 9pm, a tsunami wreaked havoc along the NSW coast from Newcastle in the north to Nowra in the south. Huge regions of Sydney where devastated including the seaside suburbs of Cronulla, Bondi and Manly. The Tsunami surge also wiped out inner harbour suburbs such as Balmain and Kirribilli, destroyed the Sydney Harbour Bridge as well as the airport and flooded the central business district. Waves reached as far inland as Parramatta. https://www.skeptics.com.au/2018/09/21/sad-day-for-doomsday/ 0:32:00 Maynard's Spooky Action.... Interview with Nathan "Mudyi" Sentence about promoting scepticism in museums, galleries, libraries and archives. Why does putting on a museum shirt make you an expert? Why does something written entering the archive make it history? Fake news is currently a much discussed topic, but for First Nations people fake news has been around for a long time - only it's called history. Nathan blogs at https://archivaldecolonist.com/ and tweets at @saywhatnathan 0:43:40 In the Zone From the pages of "The Skeptic" the magazine of Australian Skeptics, Richard Saunders gives an overview of 10 years of the Skeptic Zone Podcast. Also... RSVP for Australian Skeptics FREE Friday night trivia and meetup 12 Oct. https://www.skeptics.com.au/event/national-convention