The Amateur Scientist Podcast

8-21-10 - Episode 114

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 17:04:37 GMT

Can advertisers say whatever they want? Who are the sovereign citizens? Will fungi bend us to their wills? Did Brazil outlaw comedy? When will Jupiter cough up another planet? What does a man need with a single bullet? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

8-7-10 - Episode 113

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 15:02:12 GMT

What does the overturning of Prop 8 mean for America's furniture chewers? How will Germany rid itself of radioactive vermin? Has Colorado gubernatorial candidate Dan Maes uncovered a commusocialist bicycle scheme? Are the L.A. Clippers cursed? What's up with duck dongs? Why are Japanese people turning into hermits? And what counts as profanity in Queensland, Australia? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

7-31-10 - Episode 112

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 15:03:42 GMT

Did Hitler get a bad rap? Does aromatherapy really work? Are cows on the attack? Will immigrants force us to change the Constitution? When does a lie become a rape? What do Iranians have against octopi? And can sounds have the same effect as drugs? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

7-24-10 - Episode 111

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 15:02:22 GMT

How does one arrange a "Star Trek" marathon? Should Sarah Palin build a mosque at Ground Zero? Are burqas too hot for France? Is your dog depressed? Will global warming make you fat? And how much are women just asking to be ordained? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

7-17-10 - Episode 110

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 15:38:28 GMT

How effective is Axe body spray? Are Jews better than Christians? Is voting better when drunk? Who's dying in Chinese prisons? Did Dracula suffer from bad press? How many robots does it take to patrol a DMZ? Are digital drugs preferable to heroin? How do you kill two birds with one skydiving record? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

7-10-10 - Episode 109

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 15:43:46 GMT

How dangerous are LARPers? Will aliens living under the sun come to destroy us all? How do you know which hair styles are acceptable in Iran? What's the Australian government response to profanity? How hot is Zooey Deschanel? Does morality exist for time travelers? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

7-3-10 - Episode 108

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 15:45:06 GMT

How scary is a pack of mudbloods? Where can teenagers go to do nothing? How do you avoid a vampire in the middle of the road? Do lesbians exist in the womb? What do you have to do to get an abortion in Louisiana? Why aren't astronauts having sex? How is holy water made? What do you know about highway safety? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

6-26-10 - Episode 107

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 02:21:54 GMT

Can love conquer Coke Zero? Did the government collude with BP to cause the oil leak? What's so sexy about the Bible? Are executions more fun on the internet? How frightening are monkeys? And what words can't you say in Australia? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

6-19-10 - Episode 106

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 14:20:53 GMT

Jordan Morris of "Jordan, Jesse, Go!" and Fuel TV fame drops by to discuss the state of cuntiness. Plus, what's Bloomsday all about? Can America de-citizen its citizens? What's the best way to blow up an immigrant? Is prisoner experimentation all that big a deal? And how do you get out of a relationship with a cow? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

6-12-10 - Episode 105

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:25:53 GMT

Who makes your pan flutes? How horrible is Arizona? What's the harm in letting priests have sex? What's North Korea want to pour down your throat? Can drinking breast milk turn anyone into your mother? What's the deal with skinny gay men? Who's spreading the Gospel at the World Cup? How do you seduce a cannibal? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

5-29-10 - Episode 104

Sat, 29 May 2010 14:58:03 GMT

This week, Paul F. Tompkins stops by to discuss possible solutions to the growing Juggalo menace. Plus, we explore all our options for dealing with North Korea, ponder Canada's role in the internet flame wars, distress over cursed numbers, look on the bright side of beavers, and consider the role of the KKK in teaching history to Lumpkins. If you don't listen, it's your own funeral.

5-22-10 - Episode 103

Sat, 22 May 2010 14:31:37 GMT

Rebecca Watson of "Curiosity Aroused" and Skepchick stops by to discuss the ins and outs of mustaches. Plus, hear from a sad former dinosaur, learn about robot priests, dissect the intersection between homophobia and oil cleanup, warm your heart to the story of dictatorial friendship, and ponder the reality of vicious sea monsters. All that and much, much more on this week's show.

5-15-10 - Episode 102

Sat, 15 May 2010 14:47:22 GMT

The CELEBRATHON rolls on this week, as we're paid a visit by legendary comedian Marc Maron, host of "What the Fuck?", to discuss whether a man should go to jail for tricking women into thinking he has magic spunk. Plus, we address the ongoing lettuce crisis, the consumption of human placentas, the relative safety of knife-wielding robots, the torturing of mice, and the advancement of monkey sex. You can't afford to miss it!

5-8-10 - Episode 101

Sat, 08 May 2010 15:49:46 GMT

We're kicking off the first ever CELEBRATHON pledge drive with a special appearance by Bill Corbett of Mystery Science Theater 3000 and RiffTrax! Go to AmateurScientist.org to learn how you can donate! Plus, there's disturbing news about the worship of British royals, the renting of boys, and the resurrection of a mummy baby!

5-1-10 - Episode 100

Sat, 01 May 2010 16:28:34 GMT

It's the special, double-stuffed 100th episode of The Amateur Scientist Podcast this week! Featuring special appearances by former co-hosts Richard Peacock and Bob Teague! Enjoy a brand new audioplay based on a "Truth for Youth" anti-pornography comic book! Learn the startling secret behind the winner of the Fat Jesus Art Contest! And take a listen back to some of the best moments from the past 99 episodes! There's so much celebration, your extremities may just explode!

4-24-10 - Episode 99

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 14:24:26 GMT

How does the Prophet start his day? What's that crawling up your nose? Do chickens cause gayness? What deadly power does Red Bull hold? How do the Japanese save poopface? Do androids dream of electric sheep? Is America becoming too fat to fight? And just how amazing are Glenn Beck's post-apocalyptic seeds? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show!

4-17-10 - Episode 98

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 14:34:01 GMT

What sins have you committed? Are Catholic bishops mentally handicapped? Who will stand up to the irony accommodationists? Can racists overcome their genes? What's so special about a new species of lizard? How can you achieve maximum manliness? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

4-10-10 - Episode 97

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 12:33:31 GMT

Can love be based on hate? Should doctors treat their political enemies? Was Leonardo da Vinci a passive-aggressive jerk? Does TV control your behavior? What does 2012 hold for North Korea? Why are aliens attacking sheep? Did Hitler seek the Shroud of Turin? Are you trippin'? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

4-3-10 - Episode 96

Sat, 03 Apr 2010 15:09:09 GMT

Has one company created a perpetual energy device? What's up with Republicans? Do women just hate you, or is there something more to it? What leads a person to dismember a monkey? Can no one protect us from rampaging CHUDs? How can President Obama kick the habit of disenfranchising gays in the military? Is high-fructose corn syrup a harbinger of the apocalypse? And what do you do when customer service can't help? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

3-27-10 - Episode 95

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 14:19:29 GMT

It's an action-packed episode this week, as we extend an offer to fly Arizona Senate candidate J.D. Hayworth to Boston so he can fulfill his dream of marrying a horse. Plus, we kick off the first annual Fat Jesus Art Contest. And in the news, we're discussing acid trip villages, Defense Department entanglements with the mentally ill, the evils of "Avatar," the Boy Scouts' dirty laundry, and whether we're all eating too much. You can't afford to miss it!

3-20-10 - Episode 94 - LIVE in Atlanta

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 13:18:24 GMT

On March 13, 2010, the Atlanta Skeptics hosted an evening with The Amateur Scientist Podcast at Manuel's Tavern in Atlanta, Georgia. Join Brian as he discusses his harrowing experiences with cryptozoological beasts and chats with Blake Smith, host of Monster Talk, and Lindsay Starke, conspiracy expert and bon vivant.

Special thanks to the fine folks at Abrupt Media for recording this historic event.

3-6-10 - Episode 93

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 15:21:05 GMT

Are women more promiscuous than men? Will pesticides turn male frogs into beautiful ladies? Is there any hope for us in a warming world? How cool was that Chilean earthquake? Where can you call to confess your sins? Is anyone working in Scotland? How horrible can a single person be? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

2-27-10 - Episode 92

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 15:12:52 GMT

Just how repulsive is anal sex? What's the Anglican Church's problem with wives? If obscenity is outlawed, will only outlaws be obscene? Will you receive the Tramp Stamp of the Beast? Are disabled children God's temper tantrum over abortion? Can bees recognize your face? How many dirty words can we find in the dictionary? And does speaking backwards reveal your true thoughts? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

2-13-10 - Episode 91

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 01:19:17 GMT

Can homosexuality be cured with therapy? Do churches need mystery shoppers? What's so funny about brutal murder? Will those wacky mad scientists ever learn? Is climate change a conspiracy? Why not teach kids abstinence? Are white people as awesome as they seem? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

2-6-10 - Episode 90

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 01:42:13 GMT

Can you become a real-life vampire? Is John Edwards' baby a lovechild or a golden child? Will we ever return to the moon? What the hell is Iran shooting into space? Which hilarious terrorist has become a Noam Chomsky fan? Where do pilot pagans go to pray? Which is the most offensivest book in your semi-literate child's desk? And how do you teach phonics to a panda? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

1-30-10 - Episode 89

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 16:37:08 GMT

How can you scientifically prove you're not an asshole? If we can make "Avatar", how could we possibly have not faked 9/11? Did HAARP cause the Haitian earthquake? Should we fear aliens after all? Are you annoying the Noisy Astronomer? Is it okay to hear voices? Is Ouija just for boys? Can holy water kill you? Answers to all these questions and no more on this week's show.

1-23-10 - Episode 88

Sat, 23 Jan 2010 16:59:28 GMT

How can overprivileged hipsters ruin your winter? How much does it cost to buy a discount space shuttle? What's going on inside NASA's party hangars? Will zombies rise from their mass graves? What deadly magic does Jesus Christ possess? Why can't you stop eating? Where is John Travolta needed most? Answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show.

1-16-10 - Episode 87

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 19:57:15 GMT

Why does the movie "Avatar" depress the emotionally stunted? What the hell is inside that Skull and Bones skull? Why is Gwyneth Paltrow desperately evacuating her bowels? Who really killed Neda? What did Neanderthals smear all over their disgusting faces? Who's building robotic sex slaves? What's in store for our amazing future? The answers to all these questions and absolutely no more on this week's show!

1-10-10 - Episode 86

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 23:10:30 GMT

Let's ring in the new year with a look into the future. Then, we'll talk about superbacteria, terrible Danish cartoonists, Swedish ice balls, Warren Beatty's penis, the power of the Christian faith, strip searches, and the coming war between chimps and humans.

Christmas Gift 2009

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 02:42:01 GMT

It's a sci-fi Christmas gift from the golden age of radio. Have a great holiday season, and enjoy your Fudge Buckets!

12-19-09 - Episode 85

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 18:19:34 GMT

It's the last show of 2009, and we're celebrating by laying down our arms against Christmas. In fact, we share our most treasured Christmas tales before diving into this week's news. What's on tap? Blue footed boobies are on a quest to increase their sex appeal. George W. Bush is held accountable for the African baby boom. Swine flu is blamed on demon possession. Hasidic Jews are complaining about skin. Legacy laws are dividing Minnesotans. An exopolitical scientist is interviewed about the looming alien invasion. And we explore the fascinating cult of Edward Cullenism. God bless us, everyone.

Interview: John Darnielle (The Mountain Goats)

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:09:37 GMT

A very special treat this week, as one of my favorite singer/songwriters, John Darnielle of The Mountain Goats, talks about his new album, The Life of the World to Come, in which all of the songs are adaptations of Bible verses. Rest your imperfect body and join us, why don't you?

12-12-09 - Episode 84

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 15:24:20 GMT

The truth about 9/11! The anti-Snoopy conspiracy of Barack Obama! The wonders of extinct birds! The end of UFOs! The anatomy of pornography! The dangers of flight! The lies of legs! The horrors of racism! All this and more exclamation-worthy topics of discussion on this week's show!

Interview: Scandalishious

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 04:51:30 GMT

We're talking memes with real-life meme Scandalishious (a.k.a. Caroline), who dissects what it means to be an entity that exists solely as a semi-random idea on the internet. Also, we talk about butts.

12-5-09 - Episode 83

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 16:02:57 GMT

Is there any truth to the Loch Ness Monster? Does the U.K. parliament really suffer from the tumorous growth of tweed? What's up with Bulgarian scientists? Will Iran kill the wacky kind of atheist? Who could laugh at albino murder? What does vomit have to do with biological discoveries? Does Pastor Rick Warren's goatee hate gay people? What are climate researchers trying to hide? And can homeopathy cure the swine flu? The answers to all these questions and more on this week's show.

11-26-09 - Episode 82

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 05:26:38 GMT

In honor of Thanksgiving, we learn what the holiday is really all about. Plus, we explore the implications of stealing the body parts of famous scientists, consider a future where humans and robots mate, plunge the depths of Florida's backwaters in search of monsters, ponder Glenn Beck's 100 year plan for America, tremble at the thought of mass Hindu animal sacrifice, and take a trip to the Antiques Roadshow in search of Charles Darwin's balls. Join us, won't you?

11-22-09 - Episode 81

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 20:51:43 GMT

All the latest news on the efficacy of labioplasty, the wonders of modern medicine, the modernization of the Bible, the heroism of MILF, the hostage taking of the Catholic church, the convenience of a bionic ass, the dullness of dinosaurs, and a conversation with an actual plastic surgeon about what he'll do for money. You can't afford not to listen to this week's show.

11-14-09 - Episode 80

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:45:30 GMT

With Bob on assignment, Brian is left alone to ponder the mysteries of spontaneous human combustion among our most elderly trailer park residents, the medical anomaly of semen allergies, the Mormon church's attitude toward homosexuals who might like to rule over their own afterlife planets, the religious implications of extraterrestrial life, the dark motives of the Freemasons, and much more.

Halloween Spooktacular!

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 02:07:38 GMT

Come, come, ye fans of spooky specters and devilish demons! It's Halloween, and we're regaling you with tales of horror and histrionics. Harden your ears, for they are about to be haunted by a story of childhood haunting, a legend of ghostly race relations, an interview with a professional ghost buster buster, a nightmare involving a severed hand, and a guide to raising the dead as provided by the experts at Yahoo Answers. Plus more! Is this trick or treat? Only a listen will tell you for sure!

Interview: Jesse Thorn

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:37:15 GMT

Public radio's Jesse Thorn talks about his new web series "Put This On", a show for men who want to dress like grown ups. In the course of this freewheeling, semi-erotic conversation, Jesse busts myths about men's style, including myths about when it's appropriate to wear spats over your Air Jordans, when to slap on a tie (both bow and unbow), why you have time to dress well if you have time to make yourself not smell like poop, and just how amazing the graphics are on your 3DO.

10-21-09 - Episode 79

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 02:56:39 GMT

Hrvatska književna senzacija i part-time mliječni radnik Akaky Akakievich ispunjava za Brian i Bob na ovog tjedna show. Neka vas počastiti s pričama o borbi i voli smrtonosnog sperme kit, uživajući okovan klincima osjećaj piercinga jezika, putujući s vanzemaljcima da planet Venera gledati mačke se muzu, i izvodi iz iranskih čast čuvara u potrazi za gledati Mickey Mouse.

10-8-09 - Episode 78

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 03:10:11 GMT

Was David Carradine murdered by a jealous ghost? Is it okay to mess with archaeologists traipsing about the dreary English countryside? Just how insane is Oklahoma Sen. James Inhofe? Does Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's Jewish ancestry ruin his street cred? And if placebos are becoming more effective, is Obecalp's stock going to rise? We answer these questions and pose a few of our own on this week's show.

Interview: Norm Allen

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:37:37 GMT

Norm Allen is the executive director of African Americans for Humanism, a group seeking to foster freethought, skepticism, and secular humanism in the African-American community. In this episode, we talk about why superstition is of particular concern to black people, the roots of African-American Christianity, and how to help stop the spread of deadly superstition on the continent of Africa.

9-23-09 - Episode 77

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:35:23 GMT

Suzanne Somers believes chemotherapy killed actor/horseman/zen bouncer/ghost Patrick Swayze. A deadly, near-unpronounceable virus is flying across the sea in the belly of a mosquito. A local cult leader has mixed success forcing people into public sex for a better banana harvest. And religious people may have failed at preventing premarital sex, but they've succeeded in preventing teens from preventing pregnancy.

9-9-09 - Episode 76

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 02:15:53 GMT

We're live (on tape) from Dragon*Con, pantsless and in front of an audience of thousands. Maybe a little less. Filling in for Bob is our own Christian Walters, who discusses the various superpowers one looks for in a god. Plus, a special guest appearance by Jeff Wagg of the James Randi Educational Foundation, who discusses his adventures at Denny's. And I'm not even mentioning the memorable cameos from Skepchicks Rebecca Watson and Maria Walters. Nor will I talk about the erotic Mad Libs or human sacrifices. You'll just have to discover that stuff yourself, lazypants.

Thanks once again to Derek Colanduno for running the Skeptrack all weekend. And thanks to everyone who came out for the show. I owe you all a reach around.

8-22-09 - Episode 75

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 13:55:26 GMT

The unholy union of God parents and Bar Mitzvahs. The epic failure of Christian ex-gay ministries. The responsibility of Bill Clinton for all Republican congressmen's extramarital affairs. The wisdom of mythical Obamacare death panels. The ballessness of Yale University Press. All this and much more on this week's landmark show.

Interview: Dr. Robert M. Price

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 23:59:25 GMT

The Bible Geek himself, Dr. Robert M. Price, is back on the show to talk about the Ark of the Covenant. Did it ever exist? Does a small chapel in Ethiopia currently have it? Will its contents melt your face even if you're not a Nazi? The answers to all these questions and more in this fascinating interview.

8-4-09 - Episode 74

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:09:19 GMT

Homophobes in Wisconsin want to burn books for turning kids gay. Bob is convinced organic food tastes better than the normal stuff. Blue M&Ms may cure paralysis (sort of). And the federal government wants to blackmail your state into outlawing texting behind the wheel.

7-25-09 - Episode 73

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 15:38:17 GMT

It's a corker this week, and we're a little drunk on ouzo. But that's not stopping us from presenting the long-awaited erotic radio drama based on South Carolina governor Mark Sanford's sexy emails. Plus, news about the risk of heart disease in stupid people, the names most likely to send you to prison, the magical rituals of the Freemasons, and the wisdom of revealing national security secrets to our incompetent congress.

7-12-09 - Episode 72

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:08:59 GMT

Ants are attacking the world, and we contemplate a diplomatic solution. South Carolina governor Mark Sanford keeps saying things he shouldn't, and we assess his godliness. Scientists have studied racism in Chinese people and Caucasians, and we defame them both. And in a vintage clip from our old call-in show, we talk to an Area 51 employee on the lamb. NOTE: This show was recorded just before Independence Day. No, we don't need new calendars.

Interview: Michael Goudeau

Sun, 05 Jul 2009 21:25:14 GMT

Comic juggler and head writer of Penn & Teller's Bullshit! Michael Goudeau is in the studio this week to discuss skepticism on television, how to climb a six foot unicycle, the junction of politics and critical thinking, and how to make your own cheese.

6-27-09 - Episode 71

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 16:04:03 GMT

We mourn for the departed King of Kings of Pop and plan for his resurrection, deconstruct Richard Nixon's hatred of mixed race babies, lament the downfall of one of America's most South Carolinian civil rights deniers, discuss the virtues of wearing a burqa in France, and reveal that Justice Clarence Thomas believes it's okay to shake down a naked 13-year-old girl. All of that and more on this week's show.

6-20-09 - Episode 70

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 15:12:05 GMT

In between bouts of banging on plastic instruments, we take the time to discuss recent developments in the fight against chiropractic lunacy. British chiropractors have defended themselves against accusations that they make false claims by advising themselves to delete the false claims they've made. And we call a real chiropractor to get even more false claims straight from the quack's mouth. Plus, a new study shows the true (probably false) dangers of using a computer at home.

6-2-09 - Episode 69

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 02:16:10 GMT

In a special, extended, unedited episode, we discuss the Catholic Kama Sutra, the relationship between cell phones, elbow problems, and Cybermen, the neverending battle between Scientology and Wikipedia, and the wishy-washy attitude of the Obama administration when it comes to LGBT bunny hopping. Join us, won't you?

5-23-09 - Episode 68

Sat, 23 May 2009 17:31:28 GMT

Coming off an exciting week for Amateur Scientist Enterprises (Ltd.? LLC?), we reluctantly discuss the implications of the Ida "missing link" fossil, including whether or not it proves DARWINIST LIES! Plus, we negotiate for the release of Cheesus, decide what exactly makes for a abominable man-beast, and try to frame a magnifying glass fire as a sexy Mythbusters experiment.

5-13-09 - Episode 67

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:32:12 GMT

Might NASA's grounded rescue crew house the primary suspect in a hypothetical case of Hubble sabotage? Does Dr. Larry Dossey really believe Oprah has the power to see the future? Why the hell is marijuana still illegal? Can lithium in the groundwater drive a village to non-suicide? And who gives a shit about the world's oldest dog? The answers to those questions and more on this week's show.

5-2-09 - Episode 66

Sat, 02 May 2009 19:41:55 GMT

We've got the swine flu fever here at The Amateur Scientist Podcast. Seriously, we're very ill. But that doesn't stop us from coughing in the face of hysteria, lamenting the fate of the world's pork farmers, suggesting the virus be renamed after America's favorite flugelhorn player, and contacting a real-life homeopathic remedy supplier about selling our swine flu treatment, Pigassist. Plus, a discussion of bottoms and what they have to do with the Book of 1 Timothy.

4-24-09 - Episode 65

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 01:17:13 GMT

We have a winner in our Twitter contest, and he stops by for a visit. His name is Jim Crow, and he lives in Arkansas. Weird... Plus, we contemplate the consequences of Texas' secession from the United States, we discuss the validity of the Jedi religion, and we wonder whether people should rely on government press releases for all their scientific information. All this and a word from James Randi on The Amazing Meeting 7 on this week's show.

Interview: Adam Frank

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 01:45:35 GMT

My guest this week is University of Rochester astrophysicist Adam Frank. We talk about the award-winning scientist and writer's new book, The Constant Fire: Beyond the Science vs. Religion Debate, which seeks to highlight the common feelings of awe between so-called religious experiences and observations of the natural world through science. We also talk about Star Formation: The Game, a browser-based game Frank helped create for Discover magazine's website (for which he also writes), that puts you in charge of creating stars from celestial gasses. Plus, we lampoon the borderline-autistic basement shut-ins who've mastered the game to absurd degrees.

NOTE: A text version of the second portion of this interview can be found on our sister site, GameSnobs.com, later this week.

4-8-09 - Episode 64

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 03:01:25 GMT

This week, we bring you a long lost episode of The Amateur Scientist Podcast from way back in the early months of this year. No, not this month. Earlier. Relive those glorious days when octomoms remained anonymous, government science workers watched too much porn on the job, and inhuman opportunists tried to make a buck off of unspeakable tragedy. Sure, all but one of those things is still true today, but in the interest of not contributing to your depression, I won't say which one.

3-31-09 - Episode 63

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 02:46:17 GMT

Back and well rested from our time off, we're here with breaking news about ShamWOW! Vince's hooker problems, Bob's computer problems, Boston high schools' vampire problems, Indonesian apple pickers' Komodo dragon problems, and crabs' problems with feeling pain while being boiled alive. Hey, and we even have some solutions. Some.

3-17-09 - Episode 62

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:47:39 GMT

We're Twittering... Tweeting? Twatting? Whatever. We're doing that this week. Also, we trash one of our corporate sponsors, lampoon the genetic time bomb that is Prince Charles, discuss the pharmaceutical habits of Phish phans, and analyze the current state of religiosity in America. Plus, Mormons may be immortal highlanders. If you don't listen, you're a damned fool.

3-9-09 - Episode 61

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:50:39 GMT

Do Australians play fast and loose with their vulgar euphemisms? Is it acceptable to exact revenge on someone for not selling you a LEGO castle? Can the Christian version of Ubuntu compete with the Satanic version? Why isn't kosher salt more Jesus-y? Can household cosmetics block AIDS in monkey vaginae? Do Russian intellectuals possess powers of political precognition? The answers to these and many more questions on this week's show.

2-28-09 - Episode 60

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 06:05:30 GMT

President Obama may have been the victim of the most hilarious assassination attempt of all time. James Dobson is stepping down from everything other than being a douchebag. One of our most annoying celebrities may live forever thanks to cryonics. Bishop Richard Williamson says sorry for upsetting people with his idiocy. Pastor Fred Phelps can't go to England. And the state of Main tries to steal a copy of the Declaration of Independence that was rightfully stolen by our former British overlords. Join us as we discuss these topics and more on this week's historic show.

2-24-09 - Episode 59

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 01:31:53 GMT

Binge eating, gay rights, Barack Obama, Amway, pyramid schemes, action figures, gladiatorial combat, advertising, ShamWow!, and existential dilemmas. Are all of these topics covered on this week's show? Of course they are. You shouldn't expect anything less.

2-14-09 - Episode 58

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 18:54:09 GMT

Missionaries in South America need your two dollars, God tries to trick us into thinking the oldest human hair was found in a fossilized pile of hyena poo, Michael Phelps tarnishes the reputation of a company named after a fan of female genital mutilation, Charles Darwin and Walt Whitman were the same man, and the Japanese are very interested in your blood. It's a supersized Valentine's Day edition of America's semi-favorite podcast.

1-29-09 - Episode 57

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 14:10:39 GMT

Copping feels at Obama's inauguration, taking shots at geologists, teaching ourselves a thing or two about sacrifice, calling out plants for hording methane, insulting the king of Thailand, wondering about the eating habits of women--all this and more is going down on this week's episode of The Amateur Scientist Podcast. Can you afford to miss it? Can your children? The answer to both is no.

Interview: Beatrice Marot

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:49:10 GMT

Beatrice Marot works as a psychic astrologer in Los Angeles. She offered to give me a free reading to overcome my skepticism about psychic abilities. I have to say, I'm still skeptical. But our conversation took some interesting twists and turns. In it, we discuss the basics of astrology, the burden of being visited by celebrity spirits, and whether it's a good use of a dead person's time to dole out personal trivia about the future in lieu of warning humanity about natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other tragedies of the future.

1-10-09 - Episode 56

Sat, 10 Jan 2009 21:43:58 GMT

Your intrepid co-hosts both brave the viscous depths of their own personal illnesses to bring you word of Gwyneth Paltrow's bowel movements, a rumination on whether wearing fur is the same as wearing a suit of human skin, a constitutional discussion about the rights of those who ingest endangered monkey meat for Jesus, an examination of the Lord of the Dance's bio-energetic healing, and a congratulatory message to Tom Cruise for overcoming his illiteracy with Scientology. No need for a flu shot, germs can't be transferred via podcast.

1-1-09 - Episode 55

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:33:45 GMT

A Midwestern church creates a UFO scare after simulating the Star of Bethlehem. Which begs the question: Was Jesus an alien? Plus, the deadliest places in the U.S. have been conveniently mapped, children learn better when they don't stuff themselves silly, sharks are pretty much pansies, and smelliness can help with high blood pressure. Ring in the new year with The Amateur Scientist Podcast.

12-17-08 - Episode 54

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:58:31 GMT

Does George W. Bush hate black people? Probably not, but his future neighborhood sure does. Why does your neighbor's happiness matter more than your spouse's? Are gnomes the only mythical creatures plaguing England's cemeteries? And even if what happens in Amsterdam stays in Amsterdam, there might not be as much happening these days. All these topics and more on this week's show.

12-8-08 - Episode 53

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 02:26:57 GMT

Is it vagrancy to partake of a stranger's Thanksgiving dinner when you weren't invited inside? Is it insensitive for a sitting president to lure Jewish people to the White House with promises of Christmas trees? Is Bruce Willis too irrelevant to save us from an asteroid disaster? Does talking on your cell phone while driving make you inattentive, a jerk, or an inattentive jerk? The answer to these questions and more on this week's action-packed show.

11-27-08 - Episode 52

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 18:10:02 GMT

We celebrate Thanksgiving by tackling the subject of gay marriage, pinning it to the ground, and gyrating upon it. Our own Christian Walters joins us live from a Proposition 8 protest in Atlanta, Georgia and lets us know why supporting equal rights for all is totally hetero. But first, we discuss a recent semi-scientific survey that suggests hairspray may lead to funkiness in your swimsuit area. Forget some crappy parade. We have all the infotainment you need right here. (Minus the giant balloons.)

11-15-08 - Episode 51

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 18:54:00 GMT

It's our post-election wrap-up special, and we're six minutes more excited than normal. Barack Obama has finally beaten back the vicious two-headed hell beast known as McCain/Palin, but is his change really change in which we can believe? Also, why is it that so many first ladies turn out to be insane? Plus, we put the election predictions of psychic Elizabeth Joyce to the test. Is she a terrible psychic, or is there something about Joe Biden he's not telling us? All that and more on this super-sized episode.

11-5-08 - Episode 50

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 15:04:41 GMT

This week's 50th episode marks our one year anniversary, and we're celebrating by doing the same crap we do all the time. Bees are on the decline, but they're also on the attack. Does the fact that they can do simple math threaten the existence of humanity? Plus, ancient Hebrew texts prove that no one could ever catch a break in Hollywood. And we pose the question: How important is it that a Catholic priest believes in Jesus? Finally, we look up naked pictures of you on Facebook. Come celebrate with us.

10-29-08 - Episode 49

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 16:17:25 GMT

In our own version of Oprah's Big Give, we talk up the wonders of the Amazon Kindle, only we don't receive any product placement money. And we're not giving you one. Plus, science has discovered how to sniff out disease in plants. Disco may save your life. And we learn how prostate research in mice might one day lead to a violent takeover of the United States Congress.

10-22-08 - Episode 48

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:16:29 GMT

Sarah Palin has Jehovah Six-pack on speed dial, and He's telling her to drill, baby, drill. Google may be our overlords, but they seem pretty benevolent so far. Please stop questioning them. God is sued, but does he have a home address? And Doctor Who addresses the important issue of British people's filthy, filthy hands. All that and (slightly) more on this week's show.

10-16-08 - Episode 47

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:13:10 GMT

Should Bob and I run off to Connecticut to marry each other purely for political reasons? Is it acceptable to torture mice while finding out what makes people happy? Should you protect yourself from your cell phone's deadly rays? Is $1 million enough to shoot porn in space? Are scientific conferences just an excuse for smart people to get out of the house? The answers to all these questions and not many more on this week's show.

Interview: Douglas Rushkoff

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:00:42 GMT

In the studio this week: author, teacher, philosopher, and social critic Douglas Rushkoff on new media, the rise of technology, open source Judaism, science vs. religion, cyber spirituality, and who would win in a back alley fight between Robert Anton Wilson and Timothy Leary.

10-8-08 - Episode 46

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 23:01:42 GMT

Bob's back as the regular co-host this week, and that can only mean one thing: We're talking about the hoo-ha. The president of Pakistan has come under fire and fatwa for flirting with V.P. candidate Sarah Palin. Science shows men who hate women make more money than the rest of us. An Ig Nobel is awarded for research into Coca-Cola douching. Vagina surgery is simply out of hand. And we announce the establishment of the Funderburk/Kuhn Award for America's craziest politician.

10-1-08 - Episode 45

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 01:30:02 GMT

My own self-loathing fills in as guest co-host this week, ridiculing and otherwise degrading me as we discuss China's time-displaced reporting on its own spacewalk, SpaceX's successful shot into orbit, and the genetic marker for narcolepsy. Plus, I consult spiritual guru/bullshit artist Deepak Chopra about how to come to terms with my emotional problems and, failing that, try to schedule an exorcism with the Catholic Church.

Interview: Karl Mamer

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 15:41:24 GMT

In the studio this week: Karl Mamer, expert on scams, conspiracies, and hoaxes and host of the excellent Conspiracy Skeptic podcast. We talk about the craziness of 9/11 Truthers, shape-shifting lizard aliens, whether the Jews can keep you from having a girlfriend, and whether all that bulk on Alex Jones is fat or muscle.

9-24-08 - Episode 44

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:10:44 GMT

Former podcast co-host and current website contributor Richard Peacock returns for a limited engagement this week as we discuss the science of near death experiences, whether ducks are Catholics or Muslims, and the buff physiques of online roleplayers. Plus, our own Bob Teague is live on the scene of David Blaine's hanging upside down stunt. For real. And to round things out, famed astronomer Carl Sagan offers a lesson on the letter "A".

9-17-08 - Episode 43

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:38:32 GMT

With Bob on assignment in a cheap space pod near the Hubble telescope, we welcome our temporary co-host, Quackers the Podcasting Duck. Quackers offers his unique water fowl insight as we discuss the murder of Saudi Arabian satellite TV owners, new breeds of super lice, brain scanning in court, the Church of England's apology to Charles Darwin, the coming UFO awakening, and whether homeopathic burn balm can treat accidental wounds suffered by a podcasting duck during a science experiment.

Interview: Dr. Kevin Grazier

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 16:02:08 GMT

In the studio this week: planetary physicist Dr. Kevin Grazier. Dr. Grazier works at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory on the Cassini/Huygens mission to Saturn, and he's also the science adviser for the shows Eureka and Battlestar Galactica. Join us as we discuss the science in science fiction, what really happens when humans are exposed to the vacuum of space, and whether Bruce Willis could really take down an asteroid.

9-10-08 - Episode 42

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:31:08 GMT

It's a special Dragon*Con episode of The Amateur Scientist Podcast as you're given a glimpse into the amazing skeptical extravaganza that occurred this past Labor Day weekend in Atlanta, Georgia, a city so hot it qualifies as a convection cooking device. We sit down with Australian skeptic Richard Saunders, host of The Skeptic Zone (formerly the TANK Vodcast), to talk about science education, making skepticism fun, and ridiculous suspenders. Plus, enjoy a clip from the live JREF Million Dollar Challenge demonstration, wherein an angry young man extols the virtues of pretend "paranormalist" and part-time wax dummy Jim Callahan.

8-27-08 - Episode 41

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:11:37 GMT

Like tapered pants and the Swatch, the deadly measles virus has come roaring back into style after morons refuse to vaccinate their children. And speaking of vaccinations, it turns out most parents want their girls to be vaccinated against HPV, despite the fact that it may encourage them to slut it up. Plus, dogs can be trained to sniff out skin cancer, China embarks on a heart-warming re-education program, and Florida biology teacher David Campbell brings evolution to Florida, a state which has never evolved.

Interview: Dr. Michael Brooks

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 23:28:44 GMT

In the studio this week: science writer Dr. Michael Brooks discussing his new book 13 Things That Don't Make Sense: The Most Baffling Scientific Mysteries of Our Time. We talk about death, life, the placebo effect, homeopathy, and whether it's better to have your article appear before or after the Playboy centerfold. Dr. Brooks holds a doctorate in quantum physics, is an editor at New Scientist, and his writing has appeared in the Guardian, Independent, and Observer.

8-20-08 - Episode 40

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:27:09 GMT

Is Bigfoot on the prowl, or just shoved awkwardly in a cooler? Why might a Texas school district believe teachers should pack heat? Is Prince Charles really as much of an idiot as he seems? Why do Scots want to punish crawfish with deadly force? Could Iran really be on the verge of a technological breakthrough in thinly-veiled antisemitism? And why are Japanese video game designers so emotionally disturbed? These are the questions we ponder on this week's monumental 40th episode of The Amateur Scientist Podcast.

8-13-08 - Episode 39

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:45:49 GMT

This week we're talking psychics. You know, those fortunate persons whose only barrier to unemployment is their willingness to dupe others and themselves. James "The Amazing" Randi of the James Randi Educational Foundation joins us to expose the tricks of the trade. Plus, we delve into the mind of TV's most hilarious psychic, Chip Coffey, and phone a couple of elementary schools to see if we can set up our own X-Men-like training program for "psychic kids." Also, Matthew McConaughey is burying placentae, Catherine Zeta-Jones is trying to speak to the dead, and Bob's in a bunker to wait out the end of the world. This episode's so exciting, it makes our junk tingle.

7-30-08 - Episode 38

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:27:32 GMT

Can scientists handle smart girls? We've solved the mystery of the northern lights, but at what expense? Trans fats: deadlier than terrorism? What do gospel singers know about gay animals? Can soy eaters throw out their condoms? And in the kitchen, Rachael Ray shows us how to make an apparition of the Virgin Mary in 30 minutes or less.

7-22-08 - Episode 37

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 01:35:01 GMT

E.O. Wilson compares humans to ants, but would we rather be sheep? How can we decrease our carbon footprints while maintaining our personal helicopter fleets? Will the exotic tongue orchid kill the wasp race with its sexiness? Does singing terrible music make female fish horny? And will we sacrifice a cute fluffy kiddy to obtain religious tax breaks? Find out on this week's show.

Interview: Frank Bures

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 18:52:32 GMT

In the studio this week: Travel writer Frank Bures discussing his article A Mind Dismembered: In Search of the Magical Penis Thieves, an exploration of the phenomenon of witchcraft-assisted penis theft in Africa. Frank's writing has been featured in Harper's, Esquire, Outside, The Washington Post Magazine, and the L.A. Times. His work has also been anthologized in Best American Travel Writing 2004, and he's the recipient of a 2007 Lowell Thomas award for travel writing. For a fun drinking game, try taking a shot every time someone says "penis" during this interview.

7-15-08 - Episode 36

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 18:55:29 GMT

President Bush shocks the world by acting like a dick about global warming. Can the butt-ugly flounder be the nail in Intelligent Design's coffin? Indonesia mourns the loss of its favorite penis witch. The solar system is damaged goods. Pringles aren't potato crisps, and they're also barely food. Good old fashioned white supremacy in...Canada?

Interview: Dr. Karl Giberson

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 16:50:57 GMT

In the studio this week: Dr. Karl Giberson, professor of physics at Eastern Nazarene College and author of Saving Darwin: How to be a Christian and Believe in Evolution. We discuss why Darwin has become the Christian right's new Satan, how science can harmonize with religious belief, and whether Darwin's or Lincoln's beard would be the bigger handicap in a fistfight.

7-8-08 - Episode 35

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:17:20 GMT

George W. Bush finally learns there are consequences to his actions and makes a friend for life in the process. Sen. Whoremonger and Sen. Handjob unite to defend marriage from the gays. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad finds himself in the imaginary crosshairs. Anglican priests are scared of vaginae. Wales comes under alien attack. And extraterrestrials have allied themselves with Satan.

Interview: Dr. Steven Novella

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 12:20:44 GMT

In the studio this week: Dr. Steven Novella, host of The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe podcast, to talk about what skeptics really are, how we can market science to the public, and whether the Fourth Edition of Dungeons & Dragons is really all it's cracked up to be.

7-1-08 - Episode 34

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:39:09 GMT

Our genetics may govern how often we enter the voting booth and yank that greasy lever, yet more research shows that marijuana isn't just for nausea anymore, Neo-Pagans are a growing minority in the U.S. despite the fact that no one knows what they are, assault via exorcism is legal in Texas, and scientists watch as a penguin is raped. All that and more on this week's Nerds-fueled romp.

Interview: Pope Brock

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:59:02 GMT

In the studio this week: author Pope Brock discussing his book Charlatan: America's Most Dangerous Huckster, the Man Who Pursued Him, and the Age of Flimflam, a non-fiction black comedy about notorious con man John Brinkley, who made a fortune implanting goat testicles into real-live human beings. Yes, goat testicles.

6-24-08 - Episode 33

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 12:29:16 GMT

A teacher burns crosses on his students' arms, lucky girl struck by lightning wins $20, God hearts evolution, lonely adult men find comfort in a tiny toy robot, our brains are hardwired to keep us from killing babies, and the marketing ratchets up for Obecalp brand sugar pills. Join us, won't you?

Interview: Dr. Holly Wilson

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:20:29 GMT

In the studio this week: Dr. Holly Wilson, professor of philosophy at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, to discuss Louisiana's so-called "Academic Freedom Bill", the implications of teaching Intelligent Design in high school classrooms, and who would win in a fight between Arthur Schopenhauer and Immanuel Kant.

6-17-08 - Episode 32

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:56:44 GMT

Tom Cruise battles Dr. Drew. Older is scientifically proven to be wiser. European Muslim women are revirginized through surgery. Unicorns are finally explained. Furry lizards roam Antarctica. Herpes takes Manhattan. Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal expels a demon.

Interview: Dr. Seth Shostak

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 16:15:42 GMT

In the studio this week: Dr. Seth Shostak, chief astronomer for SETI and host of Are We Alone?, to discuss the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, the plan for making contact, and making sweet love to Matthew McConaughey.

6-10-08 - Episode 31

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 21:50:47 GMT

A man falls in the spirit, and there's no one there to catch him. The Matrix becomes (fake) reality. Vertebrates are finally having sex. The Japanese like their watermelons big and black. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is now the world's most credible fake disease. A Texas prophet dooms us all. And, finally, the Rapture. Your soul can't afford to miss this episode.

Interview: Robert M. Price

Sat, 07 Jun 2008 14:43:14 GMT

It's the very first episode of Inside the Amateur Scientist Studio, a weekly interview-oriented addendum to The Amateur Scientist Podcast. In the studio this week: Bible scholar Robert M. Price. We talk about the Catholic Church's recent crackdown on female priests, the history of women in Christianity, and leather-clad nuns.

6-3-08 - Episode 30

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:06:26 GMT

Flying in the face of human reason, a fake alien video charms the media. Meanwhile, tribal bacterial warfare rages in the crook of your elbow, space shuttles are launched, bowel movements are floating through zero gravity, and murderous murders of crow murderers murder their way across Japan while their scientists are busy creating tiny noodle bowls. It's a crazy world in which we live. All the more reason to listen to this week's show.

5-27-08 - Episode 29

Wed, 28 May 2008 00:45:58 GMT

German comedians are losing their babies. Erections may fight heart disease. Christian dating gets kinky. California is aflame. McCain and Hagee split. And a journey to the center of Oprah's colon. All that and more on this week's action-packed episode.

5-20-08 - Episode 28

Tue, 20 May 2008 12:11:55 GMT

There's cloning fraud afoot in South Korea. The Burmese junta is hording all the good stuff. Foreigners have the oldest tree, but America has the largest organism. Depressed young stars are going supernova. Iceland is celebrating the penis. Area 51 employees are calling the show. In a crazy world like this, can you afford not to listen?

5-13-08 - Episode 27

Tue, 13 May 2008 22:29:32 GMT

Pollution causes baldness! Gay penguins upset people! NASA wants to bed you! Code Pink is overrun by witches! Bodies dissolve in lye! Animals are buggered in Florida! Chickens are being crucified! What's the world coming to? Find out in this week's episode.

5-6-08 - Episode 26

Wed, 07 May 2008 02:51:13 GMT

Who's the new voice? Why, it's none other than Bob Teague, my new co-host and lifelong (hetero) mate (in training). We get right down to business, discussing angry Greek Lesbians, Jesus' appearance in a woman's womb, the death of Albert "I Invented LSD" Hoffman, the unsurprising powerlessness of prayer, truck nutz, Hillary Clinton's robo-calls, colossal squid, and former defense secretary Donald Rumsfeld's ghost hunting. You'd be a damn fool not to listen.

5-2-08 - Episode 25

Sat, 03 May 2008 03:53:03 GMT

On this week's show: the trials of human near-extinction, the plight of the hideous and mysterious narwhal, the superbly ludicrous reporting of Fox News, Mother Mary statues weeping priest blood, and the horrors of evil wizards out to steal and/or shrink penises for their own nefarious ends. It doesn't get any better, so don't even try.

4-23-07 - Episode 24

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 01:40:25 GMT

This week, our program proceeds as follows: We travel through time to hear the stunning voice of Neanderthal man, question the logic of Iran's president, wonder aloud about an apparition of Jesus Christ in a hospital door, run for our lives when a man prays on a plane, stick it to the Pope for his kiddie rape non-mea culpa, brace ourselves for the totalitarian control of Vladimir Putin, and wish the worst of fates upon a particular audience member. Plus, we finally offer our review of Expelled!: No Intelligence Allowed. Join us, won't you?

4-15-08 - Fred Phelps Interview

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:52:11 GMT

BONUS: As an exciting/disturbing supplement to this week's show, we offer an exclusive interview with Fred Phelps, Jr., son of the famous pastor of the Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas, which runs GodHatesFags.com and pickets the funerals of people who died of AIDS. No, Mr. Phelps, Jr.'s apple did not fall far from the tree.

4-15-08 - Episode 23

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:50:39 GMT

It's a disturbing podcast this week as we discuss the scientific reality of test tube meat, chastise a state police officer for being a jokey racist, debate the limits of the death penalty, marvel at Hillary Clinton's newfound love of guns and whiskey, decide which gang a newborn baby should join, and lampoon a quack in Florida who thinks he's cured cancer via pie plates and hot dogs.

4-9-08 - Episode 22

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:21:32 GMT

The discussion flies fast and furious this week as we answer our critics from Botswana, weigh the Catholic Church's attitude toward using saliva as a lubricant, marvel at a diminutive Indian, worry over aliens chunking rocks, lament Florida's creationist takeover, ponder Mike Huckabee's (final) countdown, and anticipate the Internet 2.0.

04-02-2008 - Episode 21

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 04:11:36 GMT

This week, I interview self-proclaimed parapsychologist, psychic medium, and clairvoyant Michael Kingscote about possible sewer zombies, the scientific consensus on the effects of electromagnetic radiation, and whether there's any evidence at all that his powers are real. Plus, I discuss my insatiable hunger for cookies and cream ice cream and the milky thighs of Pentecostal women.

3-26-2008 - Episode 20

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 19:07:05 GMT

In our milestone 20th episode (yes, it's a milestone--they come in fives, you know), we deconstruct the Dalai Lama. Sure, he's cute and squishy, but what about that whole Tibetan theocracy thing? And I'm not even going to mention the child rape. Plus, we apply our two minds to India's two-faced god baby, and we call Hillary Clinton a dirty stinking liar.

3-20-2008 - Episode 19

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 18:59:31 GMT

It's a new format this week as I interview Washington insider Cliff Mintz about where scientific research funding comes from, the power of the executive branch to set a scientific agenda, and the allure of high-priced D.C. whores. Plus, I make a public service announcement regarding the real-life dangers of drum circles and those who would take part in them.

3-12-2008 - Episode 18

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:02:36 GMT

This week, we interview Alison Smith of the Skeptical Analysis of the Paranormal Society about ghost hunting, cold spots, and shackling spirits to the Earth. Plus, we examine Oklahoma congresswomen who protest to much about homosexuals, dissect the Vatican's hip new set of deadly sins, and find out what kind of decor goes with our star signs.

3-6-2008 - Episode 17

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 03:40:10 GMT

This week, we interview Jeff Wagg of the James Randi Educational Foundation about the Million Dollar Challenge, creating objects with your mind, and using the power of God to fill and empty people's bladders. Plus, Richard tells a horror story about gangsters and G.I. tracts, and John McCain hitches his wagon to a boatload of crazies.

2-27-2008 - Episode 16

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 01:48:55 GMT

This week, we interview Rebecca Watson of Skepchick.org and The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe podcast about the need for more women in the skeptical community, fanny packs, and bitch fests. Also, we explore Pakistan's fear of YouTube, murderous homophobia, and America's growing lack of faith.

2-22-2008 - Episode 15

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:27:26 GMT

This week, we interview theoretical physicist Dr. Michio Kaku about space travel, time travel, teleportation, and other nerd-related things. Plus, we lampoon Ben Stein, Floridians, and crazy Brits who see zombies in sewers.

2-13-2008 - Episode 14

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 17:52:49 GMT

This week, we interview paranormal investigator Joe Nickell about UFOs, ghosts, and why people think they see weird things. Plus, we discuss Saudi Arabia's war on love, facilitating evolution in celebration of Darwin Day, and whether or not Bill Clinton is a dirty racist. Also, we call an actual chiropractor to see if he can treat a child's case of progeria, the rapid aging disease. Join us, won't you?

2-6-2008 - Episode 13

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 20:29:06 GMT

This week, we welcome Bible scholar Dr. Robert M. Price back on the show to discuss necromancy, Sylvia Browne, and the Tower of Babel. Plus, we ponder the outcry over lesbians having babies, explore the mind of the religiously insane, and slander West Virginians. And, in an emotional exchange, one of us kicks the HeadOn habit.

1-23-2008 - Episode 12

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:19:30 GMT

This week, we interview author and journalist Jon Ronson about 9/11 conspiracies, shape-shifting lizard aliens, and breaking into Bohemian Grove. Plus, we lampoon the ending of a creationist's dream, call Mike Huckabee a racist, and delve into the mind of Tom Cruise.

1-16-2008 - Episode 11

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 17:27:03 GMT

This week, we interview our hero, James "The Amazing" Randi, about Uri Geller's recent change of heart, the end of the million dollar challenge, and just what you should use to fill a giant swimming pool shaped like a dollar sign. Plus, we examine the role of "666" in the minds of morons, explore the violent tendencies of Earth's accidental ambassadors to interstellar species, and ridicule arguments from authority.

1-9-2008 - Episode 10

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 18:19:20 GMT

This week, we interview The X-Files' William B. Davis about skepticism, conspiracy theories, and whether or not Gandalf is real. Plus, we discuss the increasing insanity of the pope, learn to brush off the things that don't matter, and deal with our post-Christmas slump.

12-23-2007 - Episode 9

Mon, 24 Dec 2007 12:07:10 GMT

Christmas comes early this year as we present our exciting holiday-themed episode of The Amateur Scientist Podcast. This week, we interview Upright Citizens Brigade member and Walk Hard co-star Matt Besser about his hatred of religion and his favorite Christmas memory. Also, we discuss feral Russian wolf children and the crucifixion of France's beauty queens. Also, Jingle Bells! Stop being a sack of crap, and listen.

12-19-2007 - Episode 8

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 18:47:45 GMT

This week, we interview filmmaker and biologist Dr. Randy Olson about his documentary Flock of Dodos, the influence of the intelligent design movement, and why science needs another great communicator. Also, we discuss Mike Huckabee's down-home ignorance and the ongoing Green Bay nativity scene wars.

12-12-2007 - Episode 7

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 14:51:18 GMT

Our scheduled guest flaked out on us this week, so we bring you a very special, abbreviated episode. The Amateur Scientist Players stage a dramatic interpretation of the Truth for Youth teen Bible's anti-abortion comic strip, Castaways. To follow along, go to TruthForYouth.com and click on "abortion" under "Hot Comics". Plus, we discuss the horrible reality of fecal transplant surgery. It's our best podcast in seven days!

12-05-2007 - Episode 6

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 19:03:41 GMT

This week, we interview Ole Anthony, head of the Trinity Foundation and publisher of The Wittenburg Door, about his investigations into the unchecked greed of the country's most famous televangelists. Also, we discuss The View co-host Sherri Shepherd's disbelief in a B.C. world, Sci-Fi Channel's yeti footprint publicity stunt, whether The Golden Compass will turn children into atheists, and we issue a call for your stories of being gay in a religious household. Plus, stay tuned at the end for a special surprise!

11-28-2007 - Episode 5

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 18:02:23 GMT

This week, we interview comic book creator Chris Wisnia about his skeptical detective Dr. DeBunko, skepticism in the arts, and giant monsters. Also, we discuss the role of Satanism in local politics, the role of woman-hating in Muslim societies, and the role of NASA in a possible Obama administration. You know you want to listen.

11-20-2007 - Episode 4

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 13:30:16 GMT

In this week's supersized episode, we talk with famed Bible scholar Dr. Robert M. Price about odd stories from Genesis, ancient aliens, the historicity of Jesus, and the future of faith in a global village. Also, we ridicule Will Smith's defense of Scientology and question the wisdom of home schooling children.

11-14-2007 - Episode 3

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 18:54:08 GMT

This week, we interview astronomer Nico Nell about theoretical astrophysics, dark matter, and just what the hell comets are all about. Plus, we discuss Georgia's rain prayers, the limits of anti-terror legislation, and the role of religion in politics.

11-7-2007 - Episode 2

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:32:55 GMT

This week, we interview Australian television personality John Safran about his show John Safran vs. God, we discuss wax dummy Jim Callahan's throwdown with Criss Angel on the set of Phenomenon, we explore the (un)surprising homosexuality of American football players, and we set up a scientific experiment to test the stomach-churning powers of fried okra from the Piccadilly.

10-30-2007 - Episode 1

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 02:18:55 GMT

In this world premiere of The Amateur Scientist Podcast, SkepticalDigest.com's Richard Peacock and AmateurScientist.org's Brian Thompson discuss Dennis Kucinich's close encounter with Shirley MacLaine, the first boring-ass episode of NBC's Phenomenon, the medical effects of a positive mood, actual items from the Harriet Carter catalog, and the craziness of conspiracy theorist Richard C. Hoagland.