The Skeptic Zone
The Podcast from Australia for Science and Reason. Join Richard Saunders and the crew for interviews and reports from around the world.
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The Skeptic Zone #813 - 5.May.2024
05/04/2024
The Skeptic Zone #813 - 5.May.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders with Adrienne Hill and Kat McLeod 0:02:20 Kate & Allie at We Can Reason - Calgary Canada We are delighted to accounce that 'Kate', Kat McLeod from Edmonton, is our newest reporter on the Skeptic Zone. Hear her reaction as Richard Saunders confirms her appoitment. Weclome Kat! Her segment will be know as "For Cryin' Out! It's Kat McLeod". Also we hear more about the convention, Adrienne's video presentation from LA Skepticamp, and a short interview with speaker Jonathan Jarry. LA Skepticamp Videos 0:09:34 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham This week Tim heads to the regional city of Armidale in Australia's 'New England' area to help launch a new Skeptics in the Pub. We hear from the organiser, Walkely Award winning journalist Amelia Willmer. Armidate Skeptics in the Pub is held at the Wicklow Hotel, 6pm last Wednesday of the month. 0:22:38 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill. This week Adrienne tries her luck with AI as it writes two scripts for her. One in 'her' style, and one in the style of a skeptic from Newfoundland! What could possible go wrong? 0:28:28 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Uri Geller. 1977.10.11 - The Sydney Morning Herald
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The Skeptic Zone #812 - 28.April.2024
04/27/2024
The Skeptic Zone #812 - 28.April.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:48 Can AI Replace Your Host? Is AI all that it's cracked up to be? This week Richard Saunders tempts fate by asking AI to write a script in his own style. Are the results worth it? You be the judge..... Mate! 0:12:12 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:24:58 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around By Tim Mendham The Vatican, Meteorites and Science. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 43 No. 4 0:33:22 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Haunted Houses 1955.07.19 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1955.07.30 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1970.02.25 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1986.10.26 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also We Can Reason - Calgary Canada
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The Skeptic Zone #811 - 21.April.2024
04/20/2024
The Skeptic Zone #811 - 21.April.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:34 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill. Kate and Allie revisit another frightening herbal development this time from Japan. With guest Kat McLeod. 0:12:38 Dr Steve and the UFOs For many decades, Dr Steve Roberts has been investigating reports of UFOs. In this informal chat with Richard Saunders, Dr Steve looks at various recent UFO fads and some from history. 0:23:08 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around By Tim Mendham Scares, Sounds, Sickness and Spooks! A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 42 No. 3 0:30:54 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Crop Circles", a blast from the past. 1991.12.22 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1991.06.24 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1991.09.10 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also We Can Reason - Calgary Canada
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The Skeptic Zone #810 - 14.April.2024
04/14/2024
The Skeptic Zone #810 - 14.April.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:00 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill This week Adrienne talks to the organizers of the Los Angeles Skepticamp on the day after the event which was held on March 24, 2024. Interviewed are Wendy Hughes, Heather Henderson, Paula Lauterbach, Jane Selkie, Deborah Warcken, and Susan Gerbic. 0:14:16 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Join Tim Mendham and Richard Saunders at Sydney Skeptics in the Pub as they talk about the special guests lined up for the Australian Skeptics national convention in November. 0:21:48 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:34:12 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Australian Skeptics. 1984.07.05 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1987.02.11 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1989.03.17 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1994.11.14 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1998.03.30 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also We Can Reason - Calgary Canada
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The Skeptic Zone #809 - 7.April.2024
04/06/2024
The Skeptic Zone #809 - 7.April.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:30 My Mum Talks To Aliens - Or Does She? A review of a TV documentary from 2010. Mary Rodwell travels Australia seeking out those who claim to be abducted by UFOs. Can she convince her son during the course of the two week adventure? What, if any, real evidence does the documentary provide? 0:18:34 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham The Pauline Conspiracy By Dr Paul Willis Paul Willis puts on both his pop hat and his tinfoil hat to look at a classic plot from the Fab Four. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 34 No. 3 0:30:18 Milbourne Christopher Milbourne Christopher (1914 - 1984) regarded those individuals who claimed extrasensory perception or psychic powers to be actually using magic trickery. He wrote three book-length exposes regarding those he said were false seers or psychics: ESP, Seers & Psychics; Mediums, Mystics & The Occult; and Search For The Soul. 0:47:18 A Dive into a Trove With Kat McLeod A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Anti-Vacation in tne 1950s. 1952.03.14 - The Barrier Miner 1954.10.25 - Daily Mercury in Queensland 1955.05.26 - The Central Queensland Herald 1958.10.03 - The Australian Jewish Times Also We Can Reason - Calgary Canada
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The Skeptic Zone #808 - 31.March.2024
03/30/2024
The Skeptic Zone #808 - 31.March.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:36 Kenny Biddle Tiks on Tiktok It's hard to believe, but much of what you see on Tiktok may not be all it seems! Chief Investigator for the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry, Kenny Biddle, hunts for claims of the paranormal on Tiktok. Can he explain the unexplainable? 0:20:56 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:32:20 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to yet more UFOs. 2014.01.27 - Woman's Day 2010.11.29 - New Idea Also Dick Smith's Helicopter Adventure - Parkinson 1982 We Can Reason - Calgary Canada
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The Skeptic Zone #807 - 24.March.2024
03/23/2024
The Skeptic Zone #807 - 24.March.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 Skeptical Highlights of Dick Smith As we send our birthday wishes to Dick Smith, who just turned 80 years old, we look back at his influence on the skeptical movement in Australia. We also cover his great friendship and productive cooperation with James Randi. James Randi in Australia - With Dick Smith This Is Your Life - Dick Smith 1997 0:17:32 The Skeptic Magazine, From Australian Skeptics - March 2024 A look through some of the features and stories of the current issue of this long-running magazine, including a closer look at a report by Richard Saunders into the so-called "power bands" of the last 15 years. 0:26:04 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham It's Behind You! By Adam van Langenberg Do you ever get that feeling that you're being stared at? Then, when you turn around, you notice somebody looking right at you? Sometimes with a knife? Adam does, and he suspects that most other people do as well. There are lots of reasons why this could happen. It could be a case of confirmation bias. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 32 No. 3 0:34:28 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to UFOs. 1991.09.07 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1972.07.02 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1986.09.14 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also
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The Skeptic Zone #806 - 17.March.2024
03/16/2024
The Skeptic Zone #806 - 17.March.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:10 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Redefining Beauty, one tongue press at a time? Can keeping your mouth shut make you more attractive? While some people believe so, it may not be for the same reasons you think. Adrienne Hill has an interesting conversation with Kat McLeod to discuss the controversial beauty trend and viral sensation known as "mewing"; the origins and the myths. 0:19:08 Alanta Colley - Live Show Trick or Treatment at Melbourne International Comedy Festival : 25- 31 March Big pharma gets a bad rap, but what about big chakra? Could horse de-wormers cure a global pandemic? Can I mainline the placebo effect? Come on a science comedy journey through the wild and weird and occasionally effective world of alternative medicine with Alanta Colley as your test subject. 0:28:46 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:41:14 A Chat with Dr Eugenie Scott In a follow up interview, Dr Eugenie Scott expands her thoughts on the development of human teeth. Also how you can get involved in the San Francisco Bay Area Skeptics.
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The Skeptic Zone #805 - 10.March.2024
03/09/2024
The Skeptic Zone #805 - 10.March.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:18 Strange Bedfellows Once again, Susan Gerbic finds herself under attack from an odd assortment of UFO and conspiracy believers. This time they are trying to change her Wikipedia page to include what they think is the truth. it really is a case of the blind leading the blind. 0:23:08 Nerd Night in Bend, Oregon Join Kathy Rightmire, Brian Dunning and Richard Saunders as they enjoy Nerd Night in the city of Bend in Oregon. This is a regular meet up much like Skeptics in the Pub. Includes a portion of Brian's talk, "Sounds from Beyond". 0:35:14 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Bigfoot and Oregon. 1977.05.17 - The Canberra Times 1973.10.26 - PNG Post 1976.08.30 - The Canberra Times
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The Skeptic Zone #804 - 3.March.2024
03/02/2024
The Skeptic Zone #804 - 3.March.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:00 Skepticamp 2024 Brian Dunning and Richard Saunders had the pleasure of appearing live via video to the Surf Coast Skepticamp meeting. In this selection from the presentation, Brian and Richard discuss thier interest in the skeptical movement, podcasting and making documentary movies. 0:26:32 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill and surprise a special guest!. 0:39:20 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to psychics. Gerard Croiset - Report on the Skeptic Zone 1978.07.29 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1984.05.19 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1955.07.19 - The Sydney Morning Herald
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The Skeptic Zone #803 - 25.February.2024
02/24/2024
The Skeptic Zone #803 - 25.February.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:06:56 Healers Quacks or Mystics - A Review In 1983, ABC TV broadcast a 6 part documentary on alternative medicine. On this week's show we take a look at the series and explore some of the claims made at the time. After 40 years, what can we learn from this uncritical series. 0:27:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to so-called psychics and clairvoyants. 1978.12.31 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1987.03.22 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1986.07.02 - The Sydney Morning Herald
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The Skeptic Zone #802 - 18.February.2024
02/17/2024
The Skeptic Zone #802 - 18.February.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:10 UFOs Keep Attacking! Alas for the poor UFO diehards, the UFOs just won't come. So they are channelling their anger at this sad state of affairs, towards the skeptics, who point out the fact that the UFOs are still not coming. Once again, Susan Gerbic and Brian Dunning are in the firing line of the believers. 0:16:28 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:29:42 Dr Eugenie Scott Recorded live before an audience at Berkeley Public Library, Dr Eugenie Scott tells Richard Saunders about the importance of studying teeth throughout human history. Also, how goes the battle against the creationists and the climate change denies? 0:43:30 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to psychics. 1985.09.21 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1988.06.16 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1979.05.18 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1994.04.23 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also Surf Coast Skepticamp 2024 Special Guests, via video hook up to Oregon, Brian Dunning and Richard Saunders
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The Skeptic Zone #801 - 11.February.2024
02/10/2024
The Skeptic Zone #801 - 11.February.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:07:14 Swings and Roundabouts Richard Saunders reports on the fortunes and pitfalls of that merry-go-round of wellness, Mind Body Spirit. - In October 2023, Tim Mendham, Dr Sue Ieraci and Saunders took the long and crooked road to the Festival of MindBodySpirit (MBS) held at the convention centre in Sydney's Darling Harbour. As long-time readers of the Skeptic magazine know full well, this was not their first trip through the gates of ignorance and empty claims. 0:28:26 I Think We Need to Think From Idea to Proclamation: Making 'Critical Thinking Awareness Day' a Reality. Susan interviews Daniel Reed from the West Virginia Skeptics Society. 0:42:36 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to so-called psychics. Also Surf Coast Skepticamp 2024 Special Guests, via video hook up to Oregon, Brian Dunning and Richard Saunders
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The Skeptic Zone #800 - 4.February.2024
02/03/2024
The Skeptic Zone #800 - 4.February.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:42 You Can Count on Adrienne For this 800th episode, Adrienne Hill will honour Richard's remarkable milestone by delving into the delightful domain of "800", exploring Guinness World Records, sports feats, and celestial numerology. DCCC. 0:11:56 Episode 800 Greetings #1 Messages from The European Skeptics Podcast Skeptics With a K Podcast 0:14:10 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard takes a look back at some of the highlights of his reporting on The Skeptic Zone Podcast over hundreds of episodes and many years. 0:19:37 Episode 800 Greetings #2 Messages from Oh No! Ross and Carry Podcast Rob Palmer 0:21:16 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:33:07 Episode 800 Greetings #3 Messages from Brian Dunning Susan Gerbic Squaring the Strange Podcast Tim Mendham 0:35:40 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to so-called psychics. 1992.06.21 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1984.11.05 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1963.12.03 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also Healers, Quacks or Mystics - Alt Med TV Show c.1980s Surf Coast Skepticamp 2024 (For Miko)
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The Skeptic Zone #799 - 28.January.2024
01/27/2024
The Skeptic Zone #799 - 28.January.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 Ben Radford Kills Bigfoot? How can you kill something that was never alive? We ask Ben about the history of this elusive cryptid and why he thinks it has never been captured. We also discover that the diehard Bigfoot believers now blame the skeptics for the lack of succes in presenting evidence for the hairy monster. 0:18:40 Susan Gerbic Under Attack! Is Susan a secret agent of the government or Satan.... or both? Why are "confused" people outraged at her work and the work of GSoW? Find out as we chat to Susan from her War Room deep u derground in a not so hidden location. 0:34:40 The Strange Comments of UFO Believers. The success of Brian Dunning's movie, "The UFO Movie They Don't Want You To See", has led to some very strange comments coming from those who think we are being visited by aliens from distant worlds. 0:40:24 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Alternative Medicine #2. Also Surf Coast Skepticamp 2024
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The Skeptic Zone #798 - 21.January.2024
01/20/2024
The Skeptic Zone #798 - 21.January.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:18 You Can Count on Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill The Winchester Mystery House. Adrienne has a special interest in finding out the truth of this famous, rambling mansion in southern California. Although legend has it the house was built to cater for the superstitions of its owner, the truth is actually far more interesting. Adrienne and friends visit the house to find out more. The Winchester Mystery House is a mansion in San Jose, California, that was once the personal residence of Sarah Winchester, the widow of firearms magnate William Wirt Winchester. The house became a tourist attraction nine months after Winchester's death in 1922. The Victorian and Gothic-style mansion is renowned for its size and its architectural curiosities. Adrienne and friends discussing the Winchester Mystery House Wikipedia entry 0:19:14 Anti-Vaxxers in New Zealand Reports of an anti-vaxxer being sentenced to prison for marketing and selling fake Covid-19 medications. Also conspiracy theorists trying to disrupt the wedding of former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern. 0:27:26 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:40:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Alternative Medicine. 1982.01.31 - The Sydney Morning Herald 1983.11.28 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also Surf Coast Skepticamp 2024
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The Skeptic Zone #797 - 14.January.2024
01/13/2024
The Skeptic Zone #797 - 14.January.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders, live from Sydney Skeptics in the Pub. 0:02:20 Maynard's Spooky Action Susan Gerbic Interview. Part #3 of 3 Maynard interviews the one and only Susan Gerbic, live from The Skeptic Zone Studios. Susan tells Maynard about how her team follow the Wikipedia rules. 0:17:36 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham An interview with Tim conducted at Sydney Skeptics in the pub. Tim talks about why he got interested in skepticism and the early days of the journal from Australian Skeptics, The Skeptic. 0:27:26 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the TV doctor, Dr James Wright. 1983.06.19 - The Sydney Morning Herald Also Surf Coast Skepticamp 2024
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The Skeptic Zone #796 - 7.January.2024
01/06/2024
The Skeptic Zone #796 - 7.January.2024
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:18 The Don Lane Show - "Psychics" 43 years ago, on the very popular Don Lane Show, a lineup of so-called psychics appeared to give their mystical insights into the winner of the upcoming 1981 Melbourne Cup horse race. Don Lane is the same man who once threw James Randi off his TV chat show. The Don Lane Show - Uri Geller The Don Lane Show - 1981 Psychics 0:24:54 Maynard's Spooky Action Susan Gerbic Interview. Part #2 of 3 Maynard interviews the one and only Susan Gerbic, live from The Skeptic Zone Studios. Susan tells Maynard what Wikipedia pages need updating by the Guerrilla Skepticism group. 0:29:30 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Don Lane and the Paranormal.
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The Skeptic Zone #795 - 31.December.2023
12/30/2023
The Skeptic Zone #795 - 31.December.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:24 Quackery in Australian Pharmacies We look over some of the flyers, posters and other information promoting medical quackery, found at Australian pharmacies over the last few decades. From homeopathy to iridology, quackery in chemist shops has a dishonourable history. 0:25:18 Maynard's Spooky Action Susan Gerbic Interview. Part #1 of 3 Maynard interviews the one and only Susan Gerbic, live from The Skeptic Zone Studios. Susan tells Maynard what it's like to be an editor on Wikipedia for the Guerrilla Skepticism group, and what it takes for somebody to be notable enough to appear on Wikipedia. 0:39:36 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Luck Charms". Also THE UFO MOVIE THEY DONT WANT YOU TO SEE
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The Skeptic Zone #794 - 24.December.2023
12/23/2023
The Skeptic Zone #794 - 24.December.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:58 Over 20 Years of Skeptical Archives Richard Saunders reviews some of the many thousands of clippings, posters and information flyers collected over the past two decades at Mind Body Wallet festivals and other peddlers of misinformation. 0:30:46 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard chats to Melanie Trecek-King about her visit to Australia and what it's like to be in Facebook prison. 0:43:10 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Miracle Water". Also Origami Calendar 2024
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The Skeptic Zone #793 - 17.December.2023
12/17/2023
The Skeptic Zone #793 - 17.December.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:14 You Can Count on Adrienne Dr Christopher Lobos Adrienne Hill engages in a conversation with Dr. Christopher Labos, discussing his book titled "Does Coffee Cause Cancer? And 8 More Myths About the Food We Eat." For an extended interview that also explores Dr. Labos' efforts with science communication, follow this link: 0:17:44 Round Table - Part #5 Fraser Cain from Universe Today joins Brian Dunning from the Skeptoid podcast and Richard Saunders from the Skeptic Zone podcast to talk about the skeptical world and related issues. This week the three science communicators talk about AI and future skeptical projects. 0:30:34 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:43:08 A Dive into a Trove This week, instead of looking into the online archives, we read from an information flyer promoting the quackery of Acupuncture. Also Brian Dunning - YouTube channel Melanie Trecek-King Melbourne 18th Dec.
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The Skeptic Zone #792 - 10.December.2023
12/09/2023
The Skeptic Zone #792 - 10.December.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:42 Vale Dr Alex Ritchie We reflect on the life of Dr Alex Ritchie, the world renowned palaeontologist and staunch defender of science against the now almost defunct creationism lobby in Australia. 0:11:00 Round Table - Part #4 Fraser Cain from Universe Today joins Brian Dunning from the Skeptoid podcast and Richard Saunders from the Skeptic Zone podcast to talk about the skeptical world and related issues. This week the three science communicators talk about AI and the perception of skepticism. 0:22:08 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard, heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask pub goers, after a drink or two, if they have ever seen a UFO. Maynard chats with; Stephen Bavaro, Anthony Trecek-King, Lara Benham, Tim Mendham and Jessica Singer. 0:34:10 Melanie, Tracy King interviews Richard Saunders The tables are turned as Melanie interviews Richard Saunders about skepticism in Australia and his origami flying pig. 0:44:30 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Dr Alex Ritchie.
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The Skeptic Zone #791 - 3.December.2023
12/02/2023
The Skeptic Zone #791 - 3.December.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:05:24 Bend Spoon 2023 Walkley winner Coulthart wins 2023 Bent Spoon for UFOs! Ross Coulthart, who has won five Walkley awards (including the top Gold Walkley) during his career as a journalist, can now add another prize to the list - the Australian Skeptics' Bent Spoon award. Also we report on some of the more positive awards. 0:11:44 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:23:18 The upside of DOOMSDAY Report about a group promising salvation in the face of doom, and your very own Star Trek replicator! The claims of the creative society come straight out of science fiction. 0:32:42 Round Table - Part #3 Fraser Cain from Universe Today joins Brian Dunning from the Skeptoid podcast and Richard Saunders from the Skeptic Zone podcast to talk about the skeptical world and related issues. This week the three science communicators talk about what it feels like when we are wrong. 0:41:44 Susan Gerbic - New Zealand Skeptics conference roundup. Susan is joined by Melanie Trecek-King as they discuss the highlights from the recent conference held in New Zealand. Also Sydney Skeptics in tne Pub 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #267 - 2.December.2013 Welcome message from James Randi. Those at the 2013 Australian Skeptics National Convention were delighted to see James Randi on the big screen - Australian Skeptics Awards. Who were the winners of this year's awards? Find out with news from the convention - Dr Rachie Reports... This week Dr Rachie finds herself in Qatar where she is attending a conference on toxins. She tells us about the recent court case involving the Australian Vaccination Network (or soon be called... ?? Who know? Maybe you can think up a good name for them.) - A Week in Science - Maynard's Spooky Action... Interviews with delegates and guests at the Australian Skeptics Convention. This week Maynard chats to Ketan Joshi - Mr. X - Kevin Davies - Graham Wilson
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The Skeptic Zone #790 - 26.November.2023
11/25/2023
The Skeptic Zone #790 - 26.November.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:04:00 A Rough Guide to Spotting Bad Science Being able to evaluate the evidence behind a scientific claim is important. Being able to recognise bad science reporting, or faults in scientific studies, is equally important. These 12 points will help you separate the science from the pseudoscience. 0:14:42 Round Table - Part #2 Fraser Cain from Universe Today joins Brian Dunning from the Skeptoid podcast and Richard Saunders from the Skeptic Zone podcast to talk about the skeptical world and related issues. This week the three science communicators talk about true believers vs scammers, fake health tests, and changing people's minds. 0:27:14 Susan Gerbic in New Zealand Trains, boats and cars! Susan travels the length of New Zealand on her way to the Skeptics Conference. 0:37:08 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to telepathy. Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #266 - 24.November.2013 Sense about Science We chat with Dr Chris Peters about the 'Ask for the Evidence' program - Maynard's Spooky Action... Part 1. UFOs over Newcastle? Maynard finds out more with Ian Kirkwood - A Week in Science - Maynard's Spooky Action... Part. Random interviews with delegates and guests at the Australian Skeptics Convention.
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The Skeptic Zone #789 - 19.November.2023
11/18/2023
The Skeptic Zone #789 - 19.November.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:08 You Can Count of Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Adrienne Hill has Kat back again to give an update or three regarding episodes 778 and 775. They also discuss Tara flour and a supplement Adrienne discovered for humans at a wild bird store in Canada. 0:17:02 Round Table - Part #1 Fraser Cain from Universe Today joins Brian Dunning from the Skeptoid podcast and Richard Sanuders from the Skeptic Zone podcast to talk about the skeptical world and related issues. This week the three science communicators talk about their introduction to skepticism. 0:29:24 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:43:50 CICON 2023 Interviews A catch up with our favourite skeptical singer/songwriter George Hrab from the Geologic podcast. 0:47:06 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Mind Reading. Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #265 - 16.November.2013 Maynard interviews Brain Dunning from the Skeptoid Podcast and finds out more about the stories from Australia. Tasmanian Tigers, UFOS and more under his skeptical eye - A Week in Science - Robert Blaskiewicz and the Burzynski Clinic. USA Toady are reporting on the Burzynski Clinic, the centre that seems to claim it can sure cancer. Robert Blaskiewicz fills us in on this clinic and some of the web sites that counter the claims - Maynard's Spooky Action... Part 2. Thinking of getting married? Would you like to marry your.... car? Maynard interviews Kate Alway from Sydney who wants to be wed to her VW Beetle.
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The Skeptic Zone #788 - 12.November.2023
11/11/2023
The Skeptic Zone #788 - 12.November.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:03:32 You Can Count on Adrienne This week Adrienne interviews Susan Gerbic ftom Guerrilla Skeptics on Wikipedia. Susan, together with a host of other sceptics, as soon to head to Melbourne for the Australian Skeptics National Convention. Find out what Susan will be talking about in Melbourne and how you can meet this inspirational, skeptical activist. 0:10:24 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham What Goes Around By Tim Mendham Geese, Golddiggers and San Francisco. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 34 No. 3 0:18:32 Testing a Paranormal Claim We join the Center for Inquiry Investigations Group as they test a claim of being sble to move clouds with paranormal powers. Incudes commentary by Kenny Biddle, Chief Investigator for the CENTER FOR INQUIRY. 0:27:10 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Telepathic Twins". Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #264 - 9.November.2013 Maynard's Spooky Action... Maynard interviews Dr Rob Morrison about 'The Curiosity Show', an Australian educational children's television show produced from 1972 to 1990. Find out how the show started, some of the adventures along the way and how you and your children can now enjoy this landmark of Australian TV - A Week in Science - Don't get fooled at the Track. From the Scamwatch web site, advice about not getting taken for a ride at the racing track - Sydney Skeptics in the Pub. The question this week... If you could go to Mars but not come back.. would you?
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The Skeptic Zone #787 - 5.November.2023
11/04/2023
The Skeptic Zone #787 - 5.November.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:58 CSICON 2023 We catch up with... Melanie Trecek-King An Associate Professor of Biology at Massasoit Community College, where she teaches a general-education science course designed to equip students with empowering critical thinking, information literacy, and science literacy skills. Melanie will aslo be appearing at Skepticon, Melbourne. Ross Blocher An accomplished animation professional who has worked on award-winning films including The Princess and the Frog and The Simpsons Movie. He is also a co-host of Oh No, Ross and Carrie! 0:17:00 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:30:56 Maynard's Spooky Action Maynard heads for Sydney Skeptics in the Pub to ask what Australians think of Halloween. 0:44:02 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to "Natural Healing". Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #263 - 3.November.2013 Science Teachers' Association of New South Wales Inc. Young Scientist Awards. Richard Saunders takes a trip to the city of Wollongong to help present the 2013 Young Scientist Awards - Mind Body Spirit. Join Richard Saunders has he wonders around the maze of newage stalls at Sydney's Mind Body Spirit - A Week in Science - Maynard's Spooky Action... Maynard visits SkeptiCamp Sydney and interviews a wide range of people about all sorts of things. Highlights include a chat with Kate and Robin.
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The Skeptic Zone #786 - 29.October.2023
10/28/2023
The Skeptic Zone #786 - 29.October.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:50 CSICON 2023 A grab bag of interviews and sounds from the meeting in Las Vegas. Jim Underdown Dr Angie Mattke Adrienne Hill Celestia Ward 0:11:14 Skepticon 2023 Interview Stephen Bavaro joins us to talk about his upcoming appearance at the Australian Skeptics National Convention. The story of Atlantis! See a preview at this talk at Sydney Skeptics in the pub, November 2nd. 0:18:08 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Flying Sorcery - By Dr Steve Roberts A search of skys for UFOs and famous hoaxes. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 34 No. 4 0:28:00 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the paranormal. Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #262 - 27.October.2013 A chat with Gunnar Roland Tjomlid. 'Placebo Defekten' is a new book from this Norwegian author - A Week in Science - The Think Tank. In the Think Tank this week are Eran Segev, Joanne and Marcos Benhamu, Dr Rachael Dunlop, Richard Saunders and Margaret-Ann Tait.
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The Skeptic Zone #785 - 22.October.2023
10/21/2023
The Skeptic Zone #785 - 22.October.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:50 You Can Count On Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Adrienne engages in a conversation with Kat MacLeod, delving into her personal journey with herbal supplements and the profound impact it has had on her life, as well as her dedicated advocacy work in Canada to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with these supplements. 0:22:08 Australian Skeptics Newsletter What skeptical news has caught the eye of Tim Mendham this week? Read by Adrienne Hill. 0:35:40 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to the paranormal in Washington. Also Skepticon - Melbourne 2 - 3 Dec. Maynard JJJ 1993 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #261 - 20.October.2013 Dr Rachie Reports.. with Dr Rachael Dunlop. This week Dr Rachie chats with Dr David Hawkes from the Florey Institute in Melbourne. Just what is "The Skeptic Zone Virus"? - The Health of Sydney Harbour. Richard Saunders takes a stroll down to the Sydney Institute of Marine Science and chats with Associate Professor Emma Johnston. The science of Sydney Harbour and more! - A Week in Science - Maynard's Spooky Action... Maynard visits SkeptiCamp Sydney and interviews a wide range of people about all sorts of things. Highlights include a chat with Peter and Vanessa.
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The Skeptic Zone #784 - 15.October.2023
10/15/2023
The Skeptic Zone #784 - 15.October.2023
0:00:00 Introduction Richard Saunders 0:02:30 Once More Unto The Breach Tim Mendham, Sue Ieraci, Darryl Colquhoun and Richard Saunders head to Sydney's Festival of Mind Body Spirit to discover what quackery is on display. Will they survive the paranormal parade of pretend psychics? 0:12:54 You Can Count On Adrienne. With Adrienne Hill Kelly Burke and Faith Newsome Rodriquez join Adrienne Hill to talk about refutations regarding the Stanford Marshmallow Experiment that was initially conducted in 1972 with follow-up studies declaring that a child's ability to delay gratification could be a predictor of future success, including better SAT scores, higher levels of education and lower body mass index. 0:32:54 The Book of Tim. With Tim Mendham Phoney Fauna - Part #2 By Tim Mendham Tim looks at all the strange and weird fake animals that have been invented over the years in order to delight, con, fool, or gain publicity for their creators. A reading from The Skeptic, Vol. 34 No. 4 0:46:10 A Dive into a Trove A wander through the decades of digitised Australian newspapers on a search for references to Mind Body Spirit. Also 10 Years Ago The Skeptic Zone #260 - 13.October.2013 Maynard's Spooky Action... Maynard visits SkeptiCamp Sydney and interviews a wide range of people about all sorts of things. Highlights include a chat with Heidi Robertson from the Northern Rivers, Spoon Bending with Saunders and Cup Cakes! - The Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus) is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to bring science to people and people to science.
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