Skepticality - The Official Podcast of Skeptic Magazine
308 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 5 years ago - ★★★★ - 466 ratingsWe're tired of pertinent social and science news being buried by claptrap. Our podcast is here to bring you relevant, under-reported current events, as well as in-depth discussions from a scientific, critical, skeptical, and humorous point of view.
Derek and Swoopy are your hosts, filling your pod and your brain with skeptical insight and conversation, sometimes heated, on a plethora of topics that are ripe for critical examination. Bringing truth to podcasting, and all who choose to listen.
In our travels we will tackle the beasts of pseudoscience; the paranormal, supernatural, ufo / alien encounters, misunderstood history, and overwrought legends - urban or otherwise.
Our interview shows feature notable skeptics including; leading astronomy speakers, scientists, philosophy experts, and other scientific, secular, humanist, and skeptical book authors, and critical thinkers.
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Episodes
Skepticality #043 - Skeptic's Caltech Lecture Series: Sam Harris
January 03, 2007 02:26 - 44 minutes - 15.4 MBThis week on Skepticality, we kick off the first show of 2007 with a recording of author and lecturer Sam Harris speaking at the Symposium on Science, Religion & Politics, part of the Skeptic sponsored Caltech lecture series. Mr. Harris is the author of the New York Times bestsellers, The End of Faith and Letter to a Christian Nation. Additionally, he makes regular appearances on television and radio to discuss the danger that religion now poses to modern societies.
Skepticality #042 - The Mythbusters (Adam, Jamie and Kari) from TAM 4
December 12, 2006 20:42 - 47 minutes - 32.9 MBThis week the long awaited Mythbusters interviews finally surface. Conducted by Skepticality correspondent David Federlein, live at The Amazing Meeting 4, we bring you candid conversations with Adam Savage, Jamie Hyneman and Kari Byron of the explosively successful Discovery Channel science show, The Mythbusters.
Skepticality #041 - Naked Skeptics and The Amazing Meeting.
November 28, 2006 22:08 - 40 minutes - 13.9 MBWhat do pin up photos of famous Skeptics and The Amazing Meeting have in common? This week's episode of Skepticality of course. Skepticality correspondent David Federlein interviews Skepchick founder Rebecca Watson about the 2007 Skepchicks and Skepdudes calendar followed by Derek and Swoopy talking to The Bad Astronomer Dr. Phil Plait about his Skepdude photo as well as his contributions to the upcoming Amazing Meeting 5. Plus a sneak peak at next week's Mythbusters interviews.
Skepticality #040 - Listener Feedback and Commentary
November 14, 2006 21:00 - 43 minutes - 20 MBThis week Derek and Swoopy play some great listener feedback, mostly stemming from the highly popular Episode #34, Dr. Michael Shermer's excellent interview with James Randi. We also get some listener surprises, and James Randi himself makes a quick appearance.
Skepticality #039 - Interview: Ann Druyan
November 08, 2006 03:49 - 52 minutes - 24.1 MBThis week on Skepticality, we're very pleased to present Dr. Michael Shermer's new, in-depth interview with author and editor Ann Druyan, wife of the late Dr. Carl Sagan. In this insightful hour, Ann gives us a look into Dr. Sagan's thoughts on science, religion, and her decision to collect his acclaimed Gifford Lectures in the new book "The Varieties of Scientific Experience: A Personal� View of the Search for God.
Skepticality #038 - A Very Houdini Halloween with James Randi and the Houdini Museum
October 30, 2006 03:44 - 48 minutes - 22.4 MBOn this special Halloween themed episode of Skepticality Derek and Spooky..er, Swoopy delve into the mysteries surrounding the life and death of the great Harry Houdini who died on Halloween, 1926. We have interviews with the curators of the Houdini Museum; Dorothy Dietrich and Dick Brooks, regarding their annual Houdini Halloween Seance and the Amazing James Randi helps Swoopy in sorting out fact from fallacy in the Houdini mythos.
Skepticality #037 - Interview: Fraser Cain interviews Dr. Simon Singh.
October 25, 2006 03:08 - 31 minutes - 14.3 MBThis week Fraser Cain of Universe Today interviews popular British author, journalist and particle physicist Dr. Simon Singh about dodgy homeopathy and his work to bring to light some of the dangerous practices of homeopaths in his country. Also, Derek and Swoopy play and discuss some listener voicemail, including Bad Astronomer Phil Plait, and provide a sneak peak at next week's Halloween Special!
Skepticality #036 - Interview: Jim Ottaviani
October 09, 2006 00:35 - 45 minutes - 20.7 MBJim Ottaviani's G.T. Labs is one of the biggest producers of Science comic books. Join Derek and Swoopy as they delve into the world of graphic novels based on some of the most notable scientists in history. This is the second episode of our Big Science and Skeptical comics Double Issue.
Skepticality #035 - Interview: Chris Wisnia
October 09, 2006 00:31 - 37 minutes - 17.4 MBDid you know there were comic books made for lovers of Science? This week we interview not one, but two authors of comic books and graphic novels dealing with the themes of Science and Skepticism; Chris Wisnia of Tabloia and Jim Ottaviani of G.T. Labs.
Skepticality #034 - Interview: Dr. Michael Shermer and James Randi
September 24, 2006 23:53 - 1 hour - 29.1 MBSkeptic founder Dr. Michael Shermer provides us with a special one on one interview with the "Amazing" James Randi, recorded for Skepticality while at sea during the JREF's Amazing Adventure cruise to the Bermuda Triangle.
Skepticality #033 - Interview: Dr. Michael Shermer, Why Darwin Matters
September 10, 2006 06:21 - 57 minutes - 19.8 MBDerek and Swoopy wax nostalgic over Dragon*Con 2006, and Derek interviews Skeptic founder Dr. Michael Shermer about his new book, Why Darwin Matters: The Case Against Intelligent Design.
Skepticality #032 - Interview: The Bad Astronomer talks Pluto
August 30, 2006 07:20 - 53 minutes - 24.6 MBWe check in with Skeptic Magazine's founding publisher Dr. Michael Shermer about the dubious claims regarding Steorn's perpetual motion machine and Dr. Phil Plait, the Bad Astronomer weighs in on the trials and tribulations of Pluto.
Skepticality #031 - The Return of Skepticality!
August 14, 2006 01:17 - 23 minutes - 5.48 MBMichael Shermer joins us for a short interview highlighting his love for podcasting and why we are now the OFFICAL podcast of Skeptic Magazine!
Skepticality #030- Evolution Sunday and Jeff Wagg Interview
February 12, 2006 23:00 - 27 minutes - 12.7 MBDerek and Swoopy celebrate Darwin Day by not singing, and David Federlein interviews Jeff Wagg, webmaster for Randi.org
Skepticality #029 - The Scary QLink and Bob Carroll from TAM 4
February 04, 2006 02:00 - 36 minutes - 16.9 MBThis week Derek and Swoopy discuss the bizarre, and pointless, QLink device and rave about David Federlein's excellent interviews from TAM 4. First up, Bob Carroll of the Skeptic's Dictionary.
Skepticality #028 - Interview: Professor Lawrence Krauss
January 24, 2006 03:42 - 1 hour - 27.5 MBDerek and Swoopy whine a little, and more importantly Fraser Cain interviews Professor Lawrence Krauss on the subject of Intelligent Design.
Skepticality #027 - Interview: Fraser Cain interviews Daniel Loxton
January 05, 2006 04:17 - 51 minutes - 47.3 MBDerek and Swoopy chat about TAM4, PodcasterCon and Skepchicks in fishnets. Fraser Cain interviews Daniel Loxton, editor for Skeptic Magazine's Junior Skeptic. (re-posted 1/4/06, error fixed)
Skepticality #026 - The UnChristmas Episode featuring Tom Flynn
December 20, 2005 17:51 - 52 minutes - 48.2 MBDerek and Swoopy discuss their holiday plans and Swoopy interviews author Tom Flynn about his book The Trouble with Christmas. Will Swoopy take the Yule Free pledge?
Skepticality - Derek answers the Skeptical 5 Questions
December 14, 2005 05:39 - 32 minutes - 29.3 MBThe Five Skeptical Questions version of 5 Questions and Skepticality was a lot of fun. We were just missing one thing: Derek's answers. In a sit down last weekend, Derek and Swoopy recorded together for the first time over three months. Also, monkey news and a great promo for the new season of the Signal podcast.
Skepticality Special: 5 Skeptical Questions
December 10, 2005 18:51 - 51 minutes - 46.8 MBThe Five Skeptical Questions version of 5Questions and Skepticality are here!
Skepticality Special: Answer the 5 Questions
December 06, 2005 08:31 - 4 minutes - 3.74 MBNext week's episode of Skepticality will be a mash-up with the interactive podcast quiz show, Five Questions. This short podcast will give you all the information you need to participate in the fun, including the 5 Questions for the skeptical episode.
Interview: Lynne Kelly Part 1
November 29, 2005 07:03 - 44 minutes - 20.4 MBSwoopy talks about upcoming shows and Skepticality format changes as well as recent mentions of Skepticality in the media and part 1 of Derek's lengthy interview with Lynne Kelly is featured.
Interview: Fraser Cain interviews Richard Saunders
November 02, 2005 16:47 - 34 minutes - 15.8 MBDerek says Hi, Swoopy does some Halloween themed news, and Universe Today's Fraser Cain interviews noted Australian Skeptic Richard Saunders.
Interview: Fraser Cain interviews Tony Youens
October 16, 2005 14:30 - 46 minutes - 21.1 MBOur friend Fraser Cain of Universe Today fame, helps out Skepticality by interviewing noted UK Skeptic Tony Youens, who is the founding member of the Association for Skeptical Enquiry (ASKE). Also, Swoopy raves about her new George Hrab cd, and rants about avian flu.
Special Show (iPod Winner Announced)
October 05, 2005 00:12 - 12 minutes - 5.93 MBWe announce the winner of the iPod contest, enjoy a Skeptic Moment and get some long overdue Monkey News.
Interview: Dr. Marc Zimmer, PhD.
September 20, 2005 18:17 - 37 minutes - 17.3 MBSkepticality returns with an interview recorded the week of September 3rd with Dr. Marc Zimmer, author of Glowing Genes: A Revolution in Biotechnology. Dr. Zimmer shows us that phosphorescence isn't just for jellyfish and fireflies anymore, and Swoopy gives a big thank you to everyone who is keeping Derek's family and Skepticality going.
Faith
September 10, 2005 22:30 - 5 minutes - 6.46 MBOur friend Patrick talks about having faith during tough times like these.
The_Message
September 09, 2005 05:14 - 3 minutes - 1.57 MBAn Important Announcement regarding Skepticality.
Special Guest: James Randi
September 01, 2005 08:55 - 53 minutes - 24.7 MBJames Randi comes back to Skepticality! This time around Randi shares his thoughts on Bad Book Authors, The Amazing Meeting 4, A story from the Million Dollar Prize, and Intelligent Design vs. Evolution.
Whimsicality: Mirror Mirror
August 29, 2005 20:15 - 17 minutes - 16.1 MBThe world has had a love affair with the mirror through all of history. Be it your own image, the cars behind you, or just a way to check your haircut, mirrors are everywhere and a needed element in day to day life. Join Swoopy as she trips through the world of the reflective surface.
Interview: w/Bob Carroll of Skepdic
August 23, 2005 07:56 - 58 minutes - 26.6 MBIn this episode, we interview Dr. Bob Carroll, author of the book, 'The Skeptics Dictionary and founder of the online encyclopedia of skeptical knowledge; Skepdic. Join our conversation with Dr. Carroll as we talk about some of the topics he covers on his site and in his book.
Special Guest: The Bad Astronomer Corner!
August 17, 2005 08:51 - 49 minutes - 22.7 MBIn this episode, we had special guest, Phil Plait, on the show to answer some questions sent in over the past week by several listeners; A New Planet? Mars as big as the Moon? The War of the Worlds Re-Make, and the new Mars Observer launch. (comment on this episode) Special Links: Podcast Pickle, Donal Hinely, Bad Astronomer
Interview: Seth Shostak from SETI
August 10, 2005 20:13 - 51 minutes - 23.5 MBWe talk with SETI Astronomer, and SETI Radio host Seth Shostak. We talk a little about new planets, the skeptical nature of SETI Radio, and what it is really like to work at SETI.
Whimsicality: I Love My Car
August 06, 2005 04:26 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MBOur sidetrack through the Whimsical in life. This week Swoopy comments on how humans always try to add human traits and feelings to things... stuffed animals, boats, cars, etc... Wrapped in a fun story about the love she has for her Jetta.
Interview: George Hrab (Musical Guest)
August 01, 2005 06:28 - 1 hour - 35.4 MBPhilosophunk! In this installment of Skepticality, Derek and Swoopy interview acclaimed musician and skeptic, George Hrab. George talks to us about his musical and philosophical influences, and we listen to some amazing tracks from his body of work, plus briefings on Skepticality at DragonCon, and a word about that new planet; Xena.
(patched) Win an iPod 20GB, Mesmer, Casino Monkey, and Video Sex
July 27, 2005 04:57 - 45 minutes - 21 MBOur Color iPod 20GB Giveaway! In this episode we discuss the legend of Mesmer, the GoldenPalace.Com Monkey, and Video Game Sex! And, we make up for a big error!
Whimsicality: Book Smart
July 20, 2005 00:25 - 11 minutes - 10.1 MBThis week, Swoopy digs into our obsession with books. Why do some of us put so much importance on them, where do they fit in our lives? On the heels of the recent Harry Potter bookâ?¦ you might want to arm yourself with a little Whimsicality! My Odeo Channel (Code: 1e5b45f60b2a5540)
Interview: Dr. Michael Shermer
July 15, 2005 19:51 - 32 minutes - 14.9 MBIn this episode we talk with Dr. Michael Shermer about the Science of Good and Evil, Past Government Pseudoscience programs, and the Skeptics Society. Dr. Shermer is one of the most published Skeptics in the world, and has an incredible resume of work and appearences behind his name. This is one show not to be missed!
Whimsicality: The Number 5
July 10, 2005 16:22 - 8 minutes - 8.12 MBYou ever notice how the number FIVE seems to pop up everywhere? Five Fingers, Five Toes... The 'Fifth' Element... Throughout history there have been people facinated with the number 5. Since this is our fith Whimsicality, we thought why not explore everything to do with that dreaded number...
Interview: Jennifer Michael Hecht (Doubt)
July 06, 2005 04:25 - 58 minutes - 26.7 MBWe discuss our new website, Swoopy covers the news, and we have an incredible discussion with Jennifer Michael Hecht. Author of the book 'Doubt: A history'. We talk about how doubt and skepticism has existed throughout known history, and how is has been viewed over time. An interesting discussion about religion, doubt, skepticism, and humanist views.
Interview: James Randi (JREF)
June 30, 2005 20:13 - 40 minutes - 18.4 MBIn this episode, we are honored and excited to present to you, an interview with James Randi! James was kind enough to spend some time with us on the phone talking about the JREF, the Million Dollar Prize, and those pesky folks that think they can talk to the dead! Come join us and Mr. Randi for a great conversation.
Whimsicality: EVIL EYE!
June 24, 2005 03:26 - 7 minutes - 6.86 MBEver wish that a look really could kill? Why is there a giant eye on the back of the one dollar bill? The eye is everywhere, and like Swoopy, sometimes it's up to no good.
Interview: Benjamin Radford (Media Mythmakers)
June 21, 2005 23:40 - 59 minutes - 27.4 MBWe have a very special guest, Benjamin Radford, editor of Skeptical Inquiry and Pensar Magazine. Author of Media Mythmakers, and employee/expert at CSICOP. Benjamin joins us for a lively discussion on how the Media and Activists use myth, emotion and bad statistics to mislead us.
Interview: Tom Flynn (Free Inquiry)
June 18, 2005 05:44 - 58 minutes - 26.9 MBWe have a very special guest, Tom Flynn, one of the Editors of Free Inquiry, Member of CSICOP, and the Center for Inquiry. Tom is also an accomplished book author, and well respected Secular Humanist. Come join us with Mr. Flynn as we discuss the meaning of Secularism, and how it applies to current events.
Interview: Rob Irving (Crop Circles)
June 12, 2005 23:26 - 1 hour - 38.3 MBWe have a very special guest, Rob Irving, from Circlemakers! Rob joined us to talk about the 'myth' of the crop circle and how he and the team of folks he works with create some of the beautiful and no-so-mysterious circles we see in the wheat.
Round Table: Astronomy Podcast of Doom
June 03, 2005 19:37 - 56 minutes - 25.8 MBThe aPOD, (Astronomy Podcast of Doom!). This was a joint podcast which included 5-6 different science and astronomy based podcasters. The show/gathering was made possible by the folks at Slacker Astronomy, who gave us permission to play it as well! Since we are going on vacation today, this was a great little gift so we could bring you something cool to listen to! We hope you have as much fun listening as we did creating it.
Whimsicality: White Buffalo
June 01, 2005 05:11 - 8 minutes - 8.01 MBWelcome to Whimsicality. This is our 'in-between' show, a short segment by Swoopy on one aspect of life that is whimsical, strange, or bizzare. An investigation into the lighter side of life, where non-sensical crap is fun, for just under 10 minutes.
Roswell UFO Crash, Wiccan Parents...
May 28, 2005 04:12 - 1 hour - 27.7 MBThe Roswell UFO Crash, Bad Judgement of Wiccan Parents, Salt, What Darth Vader Brings to Bed...
Whimsicality: FORTUNE COOKIE!
May 24, 2005 03:04 - 6 minutes - 5.68 MBThis episode we investigate the mythos of the fortune cookie. Why does this little folded treat have that little kernel of wisdom inside? Who put it there, and what power does it really hold? Come inside, and find out!