Skeptics with a K

Following on from last week, Marsh looks at polling data which suggests that Gen Z believe they are psychic. Meanwhile, the team gets some lovely listener feedback and has all the latest announcements for the European Skeptics Congress in Liverpool.You can find all the details on the European Skeptics Congress at escliverpool.org.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh looks at research from last year which claims that young people are flocking to churches in search of meaning. Meanwhile, Alice has been out driving and Marsh's life turns into an 1970s sitcom.You can find all the details on the European Skeptics Congress at escliverpool.org. Tickets for the event will go on sale on May 6th at 10 AM UK Time, priced at the early bird rate of £140, or £120 for members of ECSO-affiliated organisations.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice takes an overdue look at the controversial 'looksmaxxing' influencer known as Clavicular. Meanwhile, Marsh goes to see Joshua Idehen perform in Manchester.You can find all the details on the European Skeptics Congress at escliverpool.org. Tickets for the event will go on sale on May 6th at 10 AM UK Time, priced at the early bird rate of £140, or £120 for members of ECSO-affiliated organisations.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at ball lightning, why there is so little evidence of it, and asks whether it exists at all.The next event for Liverpool Skeptics in the Pub is this evening, but will not be taking place in the regular venue. Instead that will be in the Denbigh Castle on Hackins Hey in central Liverpool.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at the prevalence of cancer misinformation on social media and the effects that may be having on cancer patients. Meanwhile, Marsh visits Durham cathedral.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh talks about efforts to reduce the climate impact of cattle, and how it's being received by conspiracy theorists. Meanwhile, Mike is excited about the return of two missing episodes of Doctor Who.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at the role of peptides in the body, and why they're increasingly being recommended by biohackers and MAHA bros. Meanwhile, Mike finds a surprising villain in the Tetris movie.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike talks about "legal tender", and why it probably doesn't mean what you think it means. Meanwhile, Alice and Marsh argue about whether Piers and Pierce are the same name.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh looks at the history of AIDS denialism, and its apparent burgeoning resurgence through the world's most listened to podcast. Meanwhile, Alice buys a new car that she is unable to drive.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at the strange new conspiracy theory that there is a secret new episode of Stranger Things which is landing Netflix any day now. Any day now...Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at new press reports which claim ultra-processed foods may be driving an increase in bowel cancer in the under-50s. Meanwhile, Mike shouts into a microphone and Marsh goes to the Old Vic to watch Tom Stoppard's Arcadia.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at why there are =so many spurious equals signs littering = the Epstein Files. Note: This episode contains references to the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein, including passing references to child sex abuse.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh reads through the Epstein Files, and the lessons and pitfalls skeptics might encounter within... including how he came to appear in the latest documents. Meanwhile, Alice returns from a visit to The Hague.Note: This episode contains references to the crimes of Jeffrey Epstein, including references to child sex abuse.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice gets angry about 'one simple thing they don't want you to know about maxing', which pushes simple answers to problems which may or may not exist. Meanwhile, Marsh tries hard to dismantle a bed.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh investigates a new paper from China, which supposedly shows that drinkers of plant-based milk alternatives are more likely to be depressed. Meanwhile, Mike visits Bristol and Alice has a haggis.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at the modern days myths surrounding the Betamax format, and Alice has to tackle an infestation of spider mites. Meanwhile, Marsh recounts his efforts to interview Erich von Däniken.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at the updated guidelines from the US government around diet, particularly around alcohol consumption. Meanwhile, Mike spends the weekend in Accident & Emergency and Marsh gets new curtains.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Happy New Year! For the first episode of 2026, Marsh takes a look back at the predictions psychics made for 2025 and how many came true.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at stories about Tesco removing Christmas from products to avoid causing offence, and Marsh has an encounter with a fan of Joe Rogan on the train home.Sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh talks about what happened when he asked every Trading Standards office about consumer complaints and Cancer Act investigations. Meanwhile, Mike still has no luck trying to find a massage.The Good Thinking Society video investigating psychics in Blackpool can be found on YouTube.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice presents her top five favourite bits of Christmas gift wellness woo, before preparing to jet off to Lithuania for a long weekend.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike asks what is really happening when people report 'out of body experiences' and how we know. Meanwhile, Alice has to handle a job interview with a dislocated jaw.Watch Susan Blackmore's excellent talk on the science of out of body experiences for QED 2016 over on YouTube.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at the increase in employers offering egg freezing as a perk of the job, and the knock-on effects of that. Meanwhile, Mike has trouble leaving Brighton.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike takes a brief look at the human trials mentioned in the systematic review being used to support a link between autism and paracetamol.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

In the aftermath of QED, Marsh talks about the communities skepticism and built and ways they can be used to make a difference. Meanwhile, Mike visits a water park and Marsh goes to Hadrian's Wall.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics.You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

We are live from QED 2025! Alice talks about Nutmaxxing, where men try to enhance the volume of their semen, Marsh looks as a plug-in gadget which claims to reduce your electricity bills, and Mike asks what evidence there is that paracetamol really works.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics. We won't try and upsell you with perks and prizes, but your donations help us do the things we do.

Alice looks at what happens when you go on a 'dopamine fast' and whether the claims about it from influencers match the biology. Meanwhile, with just hours to go before QED, the team are remarkably relaxed.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Mike asks if the Turing Test is really a meaningful tool for gauging the state of artificial intelligence, and the team has the last few announcements for QED 2025.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Marsh drops down a rabbit hole when he starts to look into the makers of 'Ozempatch', which claims to shift stubborn belly fat. Meanwhile, Mike tries to book a massage.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Alice investigates new reports that long distance running is somehow associated with increased cancer risk. Meanwhile, the team has the latest news on the final QED.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

In the wake of the political violence in the USA, Marsh asks why the self-appointed defenders of 'free speech' are so selective about whose speech they defend.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Mike looks at the 'small boat' crossings and what it means for the asylum system in the UK, before being accosted by an Australian man in Wales.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Alice looks at the trendy new superfood and supplement "sea moss", which is claimed to have numerous (and nebulous) health benefits. Meanwhile, Marsh has to move a piano and Mike checks into a hotel.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Marsh dives into Reddit ads and discovers a new product which claims to be a firewall for your brain. Meanwhile, Mike orders a Dirty Sprite and is disappointed with the results.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Mike reviews Ben Shapiro's review of the latest Superman film, and the team has updates for the upcoming QED event. Spoiler warning! There are a lot of spoilers for Superman in this episode.You can find NerdSync's fact-check of Shapiro's Superman review on YouTube.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Alice looks at the reasons why women have heart attacks misdiagnosed far more often than men, with surprising results. Meanwhile, Mike and Marsh quiz Alice on the mysterious new black strap she has started wearing on her arm.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Marsh looks at a supplement pedlar from the UK, attempting to skirt the regulations with thinly disguised claims. Meanwhile, Alice and Marsh go to Blackpool where Marsh goes to get ice cream.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Alice examines the evidence for red light therapy face masks, which are growing in popularity online. Meanwhile, Marsh has contractors in the house again, and Mike is catching flies with vinegar.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskeptics

Mike looks at the ramifications and limitations of the Online Safety Bill, which is responsible for the increase in age verification checks appearing online. Meanwhile, Marsh watches the Euros and Mike goes to see Superman.You can give us your nominations for the Ockham Awards at the website of The Skeptic. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at the company which claims to be able to spy on you through your mobile phone, and the team returns from the Merseyside Skeptics Summer Picnic.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

With the UK on its third heatwave of the year, Marsh asks what role geoengineering can or should play. Meanwhile, Mike has an unexpected knock at the door.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at the science underpinning Ozempic and Wegovy, and the impact they have on society. Meanwhile, Mike goes to see Hamilton again. And again. And again.Online tickets for the final QED are still available, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh talks about the revival of chemtrails, and the people who are trying to 'cure' the sky with vinegar. Meanwhile, Mike returns from holiday but only wants to talk about 28 Years Later.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today before they sell out! You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at a viral video which claims to have located Heaven and proven where souls go after we die. Meanwhile, Alice has a close encounter with wild turtles in Cyprus.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at the evidence around the harmful effects of non-stick cookware, and Marsh has a run-in with drunk passengers on a plane. Meanwhile, Alice's crema catalana has an unexpected surprise.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh outlines his advice for being a skeptical investigator and journalist, and what we can learn from visiting pseudoscience events. Meanwhile, Alice tries to book a dogsitter.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike examines a new paper which claims that open label placebos are an effective treatment for PMS, and Alice and Marsh visit Barcelona with the Skeptics in the Pub Online team.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice investigates the sudden hostility to 'seed oils' amongst social media influencers, and how it can be a gateway to more sinister things. Plus, Mike's neighbour can't remember the name of her dog.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh looks at a water filter company which offers to remove chlorine, fluoride, and more from your tap water. Meanwhile, the team visit an escape room.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today. You can also chat with us on the Skeptics in the Pub Discord server.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Mike looks at the revival of telegony, the 19th Century pseudoscience gaining popularity in the manosphere.Tickets for the final QED are available now, pick up yours today.You can sign up for the Skeptics with a K Patreon at https://patreon.com/skepticswithak, or to support Merseyside Skeptics as well as the podcast, donate at https://patreon.com/merseyskepticsMixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.