Episode #389

For the first episode back after QED, Alice talks about the effects of self-talk and Mike investigates claims made by the author of a new book on the 'Nocebo Effect'. Meanwhile, Mike visits HMP Dorchester with Emma.You can support what we do by donating to our Patreon, or by leaving us a glowing review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. We really appreciate it!Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

We are live from QED 2024! Mike talks about the new mathematics of 'Terry-ology', Alice discusses the men who believe that semen retention will solve all of their problems, and Marsh baits the content marketing scammers who try to get articles on The Skeptic.You can support Skeptics with a K, and the Merseyside Skeptics, by signing up to our Patreon. We won't try and upsell you with perks and prizes, but your donations help us do the things we do.

In the final episode before QED 2024, the team run down what is happening at the event. Mike talks about how posting 'goodbye Meta AI' won't stop Facebook using your data, and Marsh talks about a new AI tool to help regulators deal with pseudoscience claims.In-person tickets for QED are available for just a few more days. Pick up yours now at qedcon.org

Alice, Mike, and Marsh are joined by special guest Emma, who talks about human egg donation and the people who think it should be stopped. Marsh talks about the prolific volume of news articles from Mercola.com, and Alice looks at the new wellness trend of transdermal patches for 'energy', 'dreams', and 'stress'.If you want to donate to Emma's double marathon in support of the Prison Reform Trust, you can donate at justgiving.com/page/emma-mcclure-the-long-stretchTickets for QED 2024 are still available at qedcon.org, where you can see a live episode of Skeptics with a K, alongside InKredulous, Loremen, and the Body of Evidence.

Alice looks at the latest TikTok trend of 'sungazing', and Mike digs into a new study which says honest placebos help alleviate stress, anxiety and depression. Meanwhile, Mike tries to avoid small talk when he goes in for surgery.Note: The description of Mike's surgery includes a few references to the surgery itself that squeamish listeners may want to steel themselves for.Tickets for QED 2024 are still available, priced £189 for a full weekend of science, reason, and critical thinking.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice looks at the Scandinavian tobacco product Snus, and it's bizarre prevalence amongst English footballers, while Marsh examines the relationships between UK anti-abortion activists and wealthy American christian conservative groups.The last few early bird tickets for QED 2024 are available now. Grab yours before the prices change!Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Marsh discusses the recent riots in cities around the UK, and Mike looks at a recent paper which claims to explain how the placebo effect influences pain. Meanwhile, Alice steps on a (metaphorical) hornet's nest.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.Tickets for QED are still available; get yours while the early bird price lasts.Submit your nominations for the 2024 Ockham Awards at The Skeptic.

Alice looks at the background of Hongchi Xiao, the TCM practitioner recently convicted of manslaughter for his promotion of paida lajin, or 'slapping therapy'. Meanwhile, Mike looks at the adverts which promote fake mobile games. Meanwhile, the whole team took part in Liverpool Pride.Tickets for QED are still available, and there is only one month left of early bird pricing. Pick up yours today at qedcon.org/tickets

Marsh talks about the winners and losers for skepticism from the UK general election, and Alice looks at the popular Zoe app and the evidence for real-time glucose monitoring. Meanwhile, Mike has a stressful time in Lanzarote.Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.

Alice asks if ultra-processed food is as dangerous as its made out to be, and Mike explains how the Internet was almost stolen. Meanwhile, Alice has to chase down her dog and Marsh goes to the athletics.If you're in the UK, please go out and vote today!Mixed and edited by Morgan Clarke.