The Reality Check Sat, 04 Apr 2026 04:01:09 +0000 Sat, 04 Apr 2026 04:01:09 +0000 Libsyn RSSgen 1.0 http://www.trcpodcast.com en http://www.trcpodcast.com https://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/8/2/4/e/824ee7f0ca827522/TheRealityCheck_1400X1400.jpg The Reality Check The Reality Check false Pat Roach info@trcpodcast.com episodic no TRC #730: How Old Are Sharks? + Jim Carrey: Clone, Doppleganger or Mask? How Old Are Sharks? + Jim Carrey: Clone, Doppleganger or Mask? Sat, 04 Apr 2026 03:53:00 +0000 Sharks are so old. How old are they? They're so old that you'll be shocked to hear of all of the things that haven't been on earth as long as sharks. Darren gives us a unique history of the earth by exploring the ages of very old things and contrasting them to the very long time that sharks have been around. Adam looks at a recent appearance of Jim Carrey that has fans wondering if he's been replaced with a clone, a double or a makeup artist in an elaborate mask.

]]> Sharks are so old. How old are they? They're so old that you'll be shocked to hear of all of the things that haven't been on earth as long as sharks. Darren gives us a unique history of the earth by exploring the ages of very old things and contrasting them to the very long time that sharks have been around. Adam looks at a recent appearance of Jim Carrey that has fans wondering if he's been replaced with a clone, a double or a makeup artist in an elaborate mask.

]]> 22:13 false 730 full TRC #729: Digital Devices in Schools + Books Reviews: Enshittification & Breakneck Digital Devices in Schools + Books Reviews: Enshittification & Breakneck Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:03:00 +0000 What impact do digital devices like laptops, tablets and smart phones, both inside and outside of the classroom, have on childrens' ability to learn? Adam questions the assumption that these devices are always positive, and examines the research on the topic. Darren gives us two book reviews. First up is Enshittification by Cory Doctorow, which examines what seems to make good companies kind of terrible, and then it's Breakneck: China's Quest to Engineer the Future by Dan Wang, which looks at what factors make the US and China different.

]]> What impact do digital devices like laptops, tablets and smart phones, both inside and outside of the classroom, have on childrens' ability to learn? Adam questions the assumption that these devices are always positive, and examines the research on the topic. Darren gives us two book reviews. First up is Enshittification by Cory Doctorow, which examines what seems to make good companies kind of terrible, and then it's Breakneck: China's Quest to Engineer the Future by Dan Wang, which looks at what factors make the US and China different.

]]> 34:32 false 729 full TRC #728: Does Moltbook AI Matter? + Family Feud Surveys Does Moltbook AI Matter? + Family Feud Surveys Thu, 05 Mar 2026 01:29:00 +0000 There has been a lot of news lately about Moltbook AI, a network of Artificial Intelligence agents who are interacting with each other in great numbers in a virtual space. Darren separates fact from fiction as he explores many fascets of this emerging technology and what it could mean for the future. Then Adam looks into just how the surveys they use to get answers for the game show Family Feud really work.

There has been a lot of news lately about Moltbook AI, a platform where Artificial Intelligence agents are interacting with each other in great numbers. Darren separates fact from fiction as he explores many fascets of this emerging technology and what it could mean for the future. Then Adam looks into just how the surveys they use to get answers for the game show Family Feud really work.

]]> There has been a lot of news lately about Moltbook AI, a network of Artificial Intelligence agents who are interacting with each other in great numbers in a virtual space. Darren separates fact from fiction as he explores many fascets of this emerging technology and what it could mean for the future. Then Adam looks into just how the surveys they use to get answers for the game show Family Feud really work.

There has been a lot of news lately about Moltbook AI, a platform where Artificial Intelligence agents are interacting with each other in great numbers. Darren separates fact from fiction as he explores many fascets of this emerging technology and what it could mean for the future. Then Adam looks into just how the surveys they use to get answers for the game show Family Feud really work.

]]> 25:40 false 728 full TRC #727: Things Your Parents Said Were Illegal + Canada's Apology Laws Things Your Parents Said Were Illegal + Canada's Apology Laws Thu, 19 Feb 2026 03:32:00 +0000 This week's show is all about the law. Growing up our parents told us all kinds of things were illegal, such as driving with the dome light on in the car, riding in the back of a pickup truck, skipping school or playing Ding Dong Ditch. Adam explores whether any of these things are actually illegal, and asks if our parents were lying to us or just mistaken themselves. Then Darren investigates the effect of Canadian politeness and the law. Does saying you're sorry mean that you're actually admitting to being guilty of something?

]]> This week's show is all about the law. Growing up our parents told us all kinds of things were illegal, such as driving with the dome light on in the car, riding in the back of a pickup truck, skipping school or playing Ding Dong Ditch. Adam explores whether any of these things are actually illegal, and asks if our parents were lying to us or just mistaken themselves. Then Darren investigates the effect of Canadian politeness and the law. Does saying you're sorry mean that you're actually admitting to being guilty of something?

]]> 28:00 false 727 full TRC #726: Are Orange Cats Weird? + What Kind of Cat is Garfield? Are Orange Cats Weird? + What Kind of Cat is Garfield? Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:47:00 +0000 After decades of doing the podcast we have finally gotten around to recording an episode entirely dedicated to orange cats. Darren examines just what's going on with orange cats acting weird on the Internet and in real life. Is Orange Cat Energy a thing or are humans just stereotyping orange taby cats? Adam explores the world's most popular orange cat, Garfield, as he tries to find out just what kind of cat he actually is.

]]> After decades of doing the podcast we have finally gotten around to recording an episode entirely dedicated to orange cats. Darren examines just what's going on with orange cats acting weird on the Internet and in real life. Is Orange Cat Energy a thing or are humans just stereotyping orange taby cats? Adam explores the world's most popular orange cat, Garfield, as he tries to find out just what kind of cat he actually is.

]]> 23:06 false 726 full TRC #725: Infant Simulator Programs + Book Reviews: The Thinking Machine, The Philosopher in the Valley & Peak Human Infant Simulator Programs + Book Reviews: The Thinking Machine, The Philosopher in the Valley & Peak Human Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:38:00 +0000 For our first show of 2026 Adam looks at the efficacy of Infant Simulator Programs, which involves giving a fake baby to high school kids to discourage teen pregnancy. Darren gives us a review of three books, "The Thinking Machine: Jensen Huang, Nvidia, and the World's Most Coveted Microchip" by Stephen Witt, "The Philosopher in the Valley: Alex Karp, Palantir, and the Rise of the Surveillance State" by Michael Steinberger and "Peak Human: What We Can Learn From History's Greatest Civilizations" by Johan Norberg.

]]> For our first show of 2026 Adam looks at the efficacy of Infant Simulator Programs, which involves giving a fake baby to high school kids to discourage teen pregnancy. Darren gives us a review of three books, "The Thinking Machine: Jensen Huang, Nvidia, and the World's Most Coveted Microchip" by Stephen Witt, "The Philosopher in the Valley: Alex Karp, Palantir, and the Rise of the Surveillance State" by Michael Steinberger and "Peak Human: What We Can Learn From History's Greatest Civilizations" by Johan Norberg.

]]> 27:24 false 725 full TRC #724: Mistletoe + Christmas Tree Lights Mistletoe + Christmas Tree Lights Thu, 18 Dec 2025 23:46:00 +0000 As Christmas approaches we bring you the history of two popular decorations you might see this holiday season. Darren looks at the history of the mistletoe as a decoration, symbol of fertility and God killer. Adam looks at the first use of lights on a Christmas tree and it may be older than you think!

]]> As Christmas approaches we bring you the history of two popular decorations you might see this holiday season. Darren looks at the history of the mistletoe as a decoration, symbol of fertility and God killer. Adam looks at the first use of lights on a Christmas tree and it may be older than you think!

]]> 19:00 false 724 full TRC #723: The Introduction to Darren McKee's Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World The Introduction to Darren McKee's Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World Fri, 05 Dec 2025 03:40:00 +0000 With AI safety still underrated yet imperative, in this bonus episode of the show we share the Introduction to "Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World" by Darren McKee.

]]> With AI safety still underrated yet imperative, in this bonus episode of the show we share the Introduction to "Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World" by Darren McKee.

]]> 43:17 false 723 full TRC #722: Effective Giving + The Mona Lisa Effective Giving + The Mona Lisa Tue, 02 Dec 2025 19:42:00 +0000 Today, December 2nd, is Giving Tuesday. Darren gives an overview of the concept of Effective Giving, with some tips on how your charitable donations could will lead to the most good in line with your own priorities. Adam tackles a few claims about the Mona Lisa, inspired by not all that evidence based viral clips. What were the original colours of this painting, and did it only become popular after being stolen years ago?

]]> Today, December 2nd, is Giving Tuesday. Darren gives an overview of the concept of Effective Giving, with some tips on how your charitable donations could will lead to the most good in line with your own priorities. Adam tackles a few claims about the Mona Lisa, inspired by not all that evidence based viral clips. What were the original colours of this painting, and did it only become popular after being stolen years ago?

]]> 25:31 false 722 full TRC #721: Our 2023 Interview with Yoshua Bengio Our 2023 Interview with Yoshua Bengio Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:49:00 +0000 Two years ago we interviewed Yoshua Bengio, the prominent AI researcher, about his long career in AI where he helped build the foundations for the tools millions use around the world every day. We discussed the future of AI systems, including the importance of AI safety. Since then, Yoshua Bengio has continued to achieve great success in his career in both work on AI and raising awareness about their risks. This bonus episode is a repeat of Darren McKee and Adam Gardner's interview with him from 2023.

]]> Two years ago we interviewed Yoshua Bengio, the prominent AI researcher, about his long career in AI where he helped build the foundations for the tools millions use around the world every day. We discussed the future of AI systems, including the importance of AI safety. Since then, Yoshua Bengio has continued to achieve great success in his career in both work on AI and raising awareness about their risks. This bonus episode is a repeat of Darren McKee and Adam Gardner's interview with him from 2023.

]]> 01:00:00 false 721 full TRC #720: Diabetes and DKA + Name That: Spot The Fake Diabetes and DKA + Name That: Spot The Fake Mon, 17 Nov 2025 03:24:00 +0000 We've got two special guests on the latest show! TRC alumni Pat and Cristina join us with a couple of great segments. First Critina tackles a number of myth about diabetes, including her own recent serious experience with DKA or diabetic ketoacidosis. Then Pat delights us with another round of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game Name That: Spot the Fake edition. This game has a special twist that really challenged the contestants.

]]> We've got two special guests on the latest show! TRC alumni Pat and Cristina join us with a couple of great segments. First Critina tackles a number of myth about diabetes, including her own recent serious experience with DKA or diabetic ketoacidosis. Then Pat delights us with another round of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game Name That: Spot the Fake edition. This game has a special twist that really challenged the contestants.

]]> 45:04 false 720 full TRC #719: The Disney Point and Smoking + Book Reviews: Shadow Cell and Algospeak The Disney Point and Smoking + Book Reviews: Shadow Cell and Algospeak Wed, 05 Nov 2025 04:53:00 +0000 Is the "Disney Point" the bizarre result of certain images of Walt Disney around Disney Parks with cigarettes edited out to give the illusion of a unique pointing style? Adam weighs the evidence. Then Darren gives us a couple of book reviews. First up is Shadow Cell by Andrew and Jihi Bustamante, a real life exploration of the world of espionage by former CIA operatives. Next is Algospeak by Adam Aleksic, which examines how social media algorithms inflence language online and in the real world.

]]> Is the "Disney Point" the bizarre result of certain images of Walt Disney around Disney Parks with cigarettes edited out to give the illusion of a unique pointing style? Adam weighs the evidence. Then Darren gives us a couple of book reviews. First up is Shadow Cell by Andrew and Jihi Bustamante, a real life exploration of the world of espionage by former CIA operatives. Next is Algospeak by Adam Aleksic, which examines how social media algorithms inflence language online and in the real world.

]]> 30:33 false 719 full TRC #718: Philosophical Zombies + Vampires and Tuberculosis Philosophical Zombies + Vampires and Tuberculosis Tue, 21 Oct 2025 02:39:00 +0000 With Halloween coming up we bring you some spooky segments on zombies and vampires! Darren looks at the thought experiment about philosophical zombies also known as p-zombies. Does this idea make that much sense? Then Adam looks at cases of tuberculosis taking place in New England which, to people without a proper understanding of the germ theory of disease, were thought to be vampirism.

]]> With Halloween coming up we bring you some spooky segments on zombies and vampires! Darren looks at the thought experiment about philosophical zombies also known as p-zombies. Does this idea make that much sense? Then Adam looks at cases of tuberculosis taking place in New England which, to people without a proper understanding of the germ theory of disease, were thought to be vampirism.

]]> 27:38 false 718 full TRC #717: Air Conditioning in Europe + Book Reviews: Privacy and Surveillance and Quantum Mechanics Air Conditioning in Europe + Book Reviews: Privacy and Surveillance and Quantum Mechanics Tue, 07 Oct 2025 03:59:00 +0000 Why does air conditioning seem to be more common in North America than in Europe or other places around the world? Adam looks at the many factors that can encourage or hinder adoption of AC in various places. Darren gives us book reviews on a variety of topics with "What Is Real? The Unfinished Quest for the Meaning of Quantum Physics" by Adam Becker and "Good and Real: Demystifying Paradoxes from Physics to Ethics" by Gary Drescher.

]]> Why does air conditioning seem to be more common in North America than in Europe or other places around the world? Adam looks at the many factors that can encourage or hinder adoption of AC in various places. Darren gives us book reviews on a variety of topics with "What Is Real? The Unfinished Quest for the Meaning of Quantum Physics" by Adam Becker and "Good and Real: Demystifying Paradoxes from Physics to Ethics" by Gary Drescher.

]]> 28:11 false 717 full TRC #716: Depicting Intelligence in Fiction Depicting Intelligence in Fiction Mon, 22 Sep 2025 23:52:00 +0000 How is intelligence portrayed in works of fiction? In books, films and TV, we often see depictions of very smart of sometimes less intelligent people, but it's never totally realistic. Darren leads a conversation about various fictional portrayals of intelligence from Ender Wiggin and Sherlock Holmes to Joey Tribbiani and Homer Simpson. When do they get it right and why, and what do they often get wrong?

]]> How is intelligence portrayed in works of fiction? In books, films and TV, we often see depictions of very smart of sometimes less intelligent people, but it's never totally realistic. Darren leads a conversation about various fictional portrayals of intelligence from Ender Wiggin and Sherlock Holmes to Joey Tribbiani and Homer Simpson. When do they get it right and why, and what do they often get wrong?

]]> 28:58 false 716 full TRC #715: Mashup: Trees Mashup: Trees Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:36:00 +0000 Wood you believe that it's all about trees on the latest episode of The Reality Check podcast? Here are two classic segments about trees. First up is an interview with tree expert Owen Clarkin who gets to the root of many tree facts. That segment may have planted the seeds for a future segment so we leave you with Pat who looks into claims that the Amazon rainforest is the Earth's lungs.

]]> Wood you believe that it's all about trees on the latest episode of The Reality Check podcast? Here are two classic segments about trees. First up is an interview with tree expert Owen Clarkin who gets to the root of many tree facts. That segment may have planted the seeds for a future segment so we leave you with Pat who looks into claims that the Amazon rainforest is the Earth's lungs.

]]> 28:34 false 715 full TRC #714: Superman Movie Discussion Superman Movie Discussion Fri, 15 Aug 2025 20:34:00 +0000 It's a different kind of show this week as Darren and Adam discuss the recently released Superman film. The movie, directed by James Gunn, stars David Corenswet as Superman. The discussion includes a look at box office results and factors contributing to them, criticism of art and the various things we like and dislike about the film. Though it isn't a particularly sciencey topic, we can't help but apply our own brand of critical thinking to some aspects of the film.

The film is currently in theatres worldwide and available to purchase digitally. It's recommended that you watch it before listening to this episode as there are plenty of spoilers, if you care about that kind of thing.

]]> It's a different kind of show this week as Darren and Adam discuss the recently released Superman film. The movie, directed by James Gunn, stars David Corenswet as Superman. The discussion includes a look at box office results and factors contributing to them, criticism of art and the various things we like and dislike about the film. Though it isn't a particularly sciencey topic, we can't help but apply our own brand of critical thinking to some aspects of the film.

The film is currently in theatres worldwide and available to purchase digitally. It's recommended that you watch it before listening to this episode as there are plenty of spoilers, if you care about that kind of thing.

]]> 59:11 false 714 full TRC #713: Testosterone Replacement Therapy + Book Review Roundup: Apple in China, An Immense World, Canada Alone, Pronoun Trouble, Rise Above Testosterone Replacement Therapy + Book Review Roundup: Apple in China, An Immense World, Canada Alone, Pronoun Trouble, Rise Above Wed, 30 Jul 2025 05:03:00 +0000 This podcast is not sponsored by anyone selling testosterone and its hosts aren't on T, but there are a many who are! Adam looks into testosterone replacement therapy, TRT, and its connection to some podcasts which are popular with men. Darren then gives us some reviews of five books: Apple in China: The Capture of the World's Greatest Company by Patrick McGee, An Immense World by Ed Yong, Canada Alone: Navigating the Post-American World by Kim Richard Nossal, Pronoun Trouble: The Story of Us in Seven Little Words by John McWhorter and Rise Above: Overcome a Victim Mindset, Empower Yourself and Realise Your Full Potential by Scott Barry Kaufman.

]]> This podcast is not sponsored by anyone selling testosterone and its hosts aren't on T, but there are a many who are! Adam looks into testosterone replacement therapy, TRT, and its connection to some podcasts which are popular with men. Darren then gives us some reviews of five books: Apple in China: The Capture of the World's Greatest Company by Patrick McGee, An Immense World by Ed Yong, Canada Alone: Navigating the Post-American World by Kim Richard Nossal, Pronoun Trouble: The Story of Us in Seven Little Words by John McWhorter and Rise Above: Overcome a Victim Mindset, Empower Yourself and Realise Your Full Potential by Scott Barry Kaufman.

]]> 46:39 false 713 full TRC #712: AI Make Brain Dumb? + Mentalism AI Make Brain Dumb? + Mentalism Wed, 09 Jul 2025 23:54:00 +0000 Is AI making us dumber? Darren looks into a recent study, which spawned some less than great press coverage, trying to assess where or not using LLMs is making us less intelligent. We didn't really come to very good conclusions because we've been using too much AI. Adam gives an overview of mentalism, inspired by some recent podcast appearances by Oz Pearlman which have gone viral and brought some mainstream attention to this practice.

]]> Is AI making us dumber? Darren looks into a recent study, which spawned some less than great press coverage, trying to assess where or not using LLMs is making us less intelligent. We didn't really come to very good conclusions because we've been using too much AI. Adam gives an overview of mentalism, inspired by some recent podcast appearances by Oz Pearlman which have gone viral and brought some mainstream attention to this practice.

]]> 46:33 false 712 full TRC #711: Are Dire Wolves Back? + Book Review Roundup: Nexus, Stoicism, CBT Made Simple, Philosophers in 90 Minutes Are Dire Wolves Back? + Book Review Roundup: Nexus, Stoicism, CBT Made Simple, Philosophers in 90 Minutes Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:23:00 +0000 Could it be that dire wolves are no longer extinct? Researchers at Colossal Biosciences claim to have accomplished de-extinction of these long extinct wolves. Adam looks at the authenticity of their claims and examines what exactly they did to create these so called dire wolves. Then Darren does another book review roundup, looking at Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks by Yuval Noah Harari, Stoicism: How to Use Stoic Philosophy to Find Inner Peace and Happiness Paperback by Jason Hemlock, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Made Simple: 10 Strategies for Managing Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Panic, and Worry by Seth J. Gillihan and a few entries in the Philosophers in 90 minutes series by Paul Strathern.

]]> Could it be that dire wolves are no longer extinct? Researchers at Colossal Biosciences claim to have accomplished de-extinction of these long extinct wolves. Adam looks at the authenticity of their claims and examines what exactly they did to create these so called dire wolves. Then Darren does another book review roundup, looking at Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks by Yuval Noah Harari, Stoicism: How to Use Stoic Philosophy to Find Inner Peace and Happiness Paperback by Jason Hemlock, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Made Simple: 10 Strategies for Managing Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Panic, and Worry by Seth J. Gillihan and a few entries in the Philosophers in 90 minutes series by Paul Strathern.

]]> 32:34 false 711 full TRC #710: Remembering Dr. Stuart Farrimond TRC #710: Remembering Dr. Stuart Farrimond Tue, 27 May 2025 14:23:00 +0000 Sadly, we recently got the news that our friend and frequent TRC contributor Dr. Stuart Farrimond passed away.  Stuart was a medical doctor who had a brain cancer diagnosis at age 25.  His treatment and side effects meant he had to stop practicing medicine.  Stu reinvented himself as a food science expert - appearing on countless television and radio shows.  He later became a best selling author of science education books.  He will be missed.

]]> Sadly, we recently got the news that our friend and frequent TRC contributor Dr. Stuart Farrimond passed away. Stuart was a medical doctor who had a brain cancer diagnosis at age 25. His treatment and side effects meant he had to stop practicing medicine. Stu reinvented himself as a food science expert - appearing on countless television and radio shows. He later became a best selling author of science education books. He will be missed.

]]> 04:04:27 false 710 full TRC #709: 100 Men vs. 1 Gorilla + Evidence of Alien Life on an Exoplanet? 100 Men vs. 1 Gorilla + Evidence of Alien Life on an Exoplanet? Tue, 20 May 2025 02:59:00 +0000 Who would win in a fight, 100 men or 1 gorilla? If you're thinking that question is too vague then you'll love Darren's analysis of the situation. Adam looks at claims that we've found evidence of alien life on an exoplanet called K2-18B. I'm not saying it's aliens but… listen to the episode to find out!

]]> Who would win in a fight, 100 men or 1 gorilla? If you're thinking that question is too vague then you'll love Darren's analysis of the situation. Adam looks at claims that we've found evidence of alien life on an exoplanet called K2-18B. I'm not saying it's aliens but… listen to the episode to find out!

]]> 39:47 false 709 full TRC #708: The Telepathy Tapes + AI Cheating At Chess? The Telepathy Tapes + AI Cheating At Chess? Mon, 21 Apr 2025 19:27:00 +0000 The Telepathy Tapes is a popular podcast that tells the story of non verbal people showing evidence of psychic abilities and logging on to a psychic virtual chat room called The Hill. Adam looks into how realistic these claims are given what we know about Facilitated Communication. Darren looks into some AI programs that seem to have been cheating at chess! What are they doing and what could this mean for the future of Artificial Intelligence?

]]> The Telepathy Tapes is a popular podcast that tells the story of non verbal people showing evidence of psychic abilities and logging on to a psychic virtual chat room called The Hill. Adam looks into how realistic these claims are given what we know about Facilitated Communication. Darren looks into some AI programs that seem to have been cheating at chess! What are they doing and what could this mean for the future of Artificial Intelligence?

]]> 30:09 false 708 full TRC #707: Is Tim Hortons Canadian? + Mysterious Structures Under The Great Pyramid Is Tim Hortons Canadian? + Mysterious Structures Under The Great Pyramid Mon, 07 Apr 2025 03:39:00 +0000 Is Tim Hortons Canadian? Darren takes a look at the history of the popular coffee and donut chain to see just how Canadian it is and what it even means to be a Canadian company. Adam dives into some recent news which suggests that there are massive structures underneath the Great Pyramid of Giza. Is this even possible? Could that structure be a Tim Hortons restaurant?

]]> Is Tim Hortons Canadian? Darren takes a look at the history of the popular coffee and donut chain to see just how Canadian it is and what it even means to be a Canadian company. Adam dives into some recent news which suggests that there are massive structures underneath the Great Pyramid of Giza. Is this even possible? Could that structure be a Tim Hortons restaurant?

]]> 29:05 false 707 full TRC #706: An AI Generated Podcast by NotebookLM An AI Generated Podcast by NotebookLM Wed, 26 Mar 2025 03:19:00 +0000 Could Artificial Intelligence do a better job of recording a podcast than Darren and Adam? For this bonus episode we try something a little different. Darren gave Google's NotebookLM the introduction Uncontrollable, his book on AI safety, and asked it to generate a podcast based on the content. Listen to what it produced! A somewhat convincing exchange between two virtual podcast hosts talking about concerns about the looming threat of AI. Following this simulated episode the real human hosts of The Reality Check podcast will share what we thought of it.

]]> Could Artificial Intelligence do a better job of recording a podcast than Darren and Adam? For this bonus episode we try something a little different. Darren gave Google's NotebookLM the introduction Uncontrollable, his book on AI safety, and asked it to generate a podcast based on the content. Listen to what it produced! A somewhat convincing exchange between two virtual podcast hosts talking about concerns about the looming threat of AI. Following this simulated episode the real human hosts of The Reality Check podcast will share what we thought of it.

]]> 20:15 false 706 full TRC #705: Book Round Up: Family Unfriendly and One Billion Americans + Is The 401 The Busiest Highway In The World? Book Round Up: Family Unfriendly and One Billion Americans + Is The 401 The Busiest Highway In The World? Sun, 16 Mar 2025 02:45:00 +0000 After reading two books touching on the theme of birth rates Adam gives us an overview and discussion on Family Unfriendly: How Our Culture Made Raising Kids Much Harder Than It Needs to Be by Timothy Carney and One Billion Americans: The Case for Thinking Bigger by Matthew Yglesias. Then Darren looks into whether or not Highway 401 in Toronto is the busiest highway in the world.

]]> After reading two books touching on the theme of birth rates Adam gives us an overview and discussion on Family Unfriendly: How Our Culture Made Raising Kids Much Harder Than It Needs to Be by Timothy Carney and One Billion Americans: The Case for Thinking Bigger by Matthew Yglesias. Then Darren looks into whether or not Highway 401 in Toronto is the busiest highway in the world.

]]> 40:36 false 705 full TRC #704: Remembering Joe Nickell Remembering Joe Nickell Fri, 07 Mar 2025 05:15:00 +0000 Joe Nickell, the world renowned paranormal investigator, died earlier this week at the age of 80. He was a great inspiration to us here at The Reality Check and it was a great pleasure for some of us to have met him back in 2009 at The Amazing Meeting. At that time we recorded this interview, originally used in episode 53 of the show, where we talk with Joe Nickell about his fascinating career.

]]> Joe Nickell, the world renowned paranormal investigator, died earlier this week at the age of 80. He was a great inspiration to us here at The Reality Check and it was a great pleasure for some of us to have met him back in 2009 at The Amazing Meeting. At that time we recorded this interview, originally used in episode 53 of the show, where we talk with Joe Nickell about his fascinating career.

]]> 32:38 false 704 full TRC #703: Jevons' Paradox + American vs. Canadian ingredients in food Jevons' Paradox + American vs. Canadian ingredients in food Mon, 24 Feb 2025 05:18:00 +0000 Darren revisits a topical segment from the past looking at Jevons' Paradox which suggests that as a resource becomes more efficient, it may paradoxically be consumed more. Then Adam looks at some recent controversies about artificial colouring in Froot Loops cereal, how those are labeled in the US and Canada and what that means.

]]> Darren revisits a topical segment from the past looking at Jevons' Paradox which suggests that as a resource becomes more efficient, it may paradoxically be consumed more. Then Adam looks at some recent controversies about artificial colouring in Froot Loops cereal, how those are labeled in the US and Canada and what that means.

]]> 34:13 false 703 full TRC #702: Talking Close Relationships with Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk Talking Close Relationships with Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk Wed, 05 Feb 2025 04:33:00 +0000 With Valentines Day coming up we are taking this opportunity to revisit a romantic segment we did five years ago with Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk. In this interview she discusses the work she does in the Positive Activities in Intimate Relationships (PAIR) Lab at Carleton University in which they study factors that promote and hinder positive activities in intimate relationships.

]]> With Valentines Day coming up we are taking this opportunity to revisit a romantic segment we did five years ago with Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk. In this interview she discusses the work she does in the Positive Activities in Intimate Relationships (PAIR) Lab at Carleton University in which they study factors that promote and hinder positive activities in intimate relationships.

]]> 39:37 false 702 full TRC #701: How Many Birds Do Cats Kill? + Book Review Roundup How Many Birds Do Cats Kill? + Book Review Roundup Sun, 12 Jan 2025 20:42:00 +0000 It is often said that cats are responsible for the death of countless birds. Adam looks at where these numbers come from and wonders whether they are all that accurate. Darren gives a review of four books which he recently read. He'll share an AI and human summary of "My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel" by Ari Shavit, Enemies and Neighbors: Arabs and Jews in Palestine and Israel, 1917-2017″ by Ian Black, "Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War" by Raj M. Shah and Christopher Kirchhoff, and "On Freedom" by Timothy Snyder.

]]> It is often said that cats are responsible for the death of countless birds. Adam looks at where these numbers come from and wonders whether they are all that accurate. Darren gives a review of four books which he recently read. He'll share an AI and human summary of "My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel" by Ari Shavit, Enemies and Neighbors: Arabs and Jews in Palestine and Israel, 1917-2017″ by Ian Black, "Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War" by Raj M. Shah and Christopher Kirchhoff, and "On Freedom" by Timothy Snyder.

]]> 42:44 false 701 full TRC #700: The Rise of Podcasts + Are False Beliefs More Common? The Rise of Podcasts + Are False Beliefs More Common? Sun, 15 Dec 2024 16:34:00 +0000 It's the 700th episode of The Reality Check podcast! On this special show we look back at the last 16 years to see how much things have changed since way back in 2008. Darren looks at the history of podcasts and how far we've come and then Adam looks at which false beliefs have become more or less over time since the show started.

]]> It's the 700th episode of The Reality Check podcast! On this special show we look back at the last 16 years to see how much things have changed since way back in 2008. Darren looks at the history of podcasts and how far we've come and then Adam looks at which false beliefs have become more or less over time since the show started.

]]> 38:39 false 700 full TRC #699: Was Lamarck That Wrong? + What Do Animals See On A TV? Was Lamarck That Wrong? + What Do Animals See On A TV? Wed, 06 Nov 2024 05:27:00 +0000 When it comes to evolution many focus on what Jean-Baptiste Lamarck got wrong with his model of inheritance.  Darren looks at what he got right and considers his discoveries in light of the scientific understanding of the world of his time.  Adam, based on first hand anecdotal evidence of many cats and dogs, wonders what pets see when they looking at various types of TVs and computer monitors.

]]> When it comes to evolution many focus on what Jean-Baptiste Lamarck got wrong with his model of inheritance. Darren looks at what he got right and considers his discoveries in light of the scientific understanding of the world of his time. Adam, based on first hand anecdotal evidence of many cats and dogs, wonders what pets see when they looking at various types of TVs and computer monitors.

]]> 41:24 false 699 full TRC #698: Converting Office Space to Housing + Book Review: The Singularity is Nearer Converting Office Space to Housing + Book Review: The Singularity is Nearer Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:56:00 +0000 Why don't they just convert all of the unused office space to housing?  Adam looks at the challenges involved in converting office buildings to residential space.  Then Darren gives us a review of Ray Kurzweil's recent book The Singularity Is Nearer.

]]> Why don't they just convert all of the unused office space to housing? Adam looks at the challenges involved in converting office buildings to residential space. Then Darren gives us a review of Ray Kurzweil's recent book The Singularity Is Nearer.

]]> 27:39 false 698 full TRC #697: Did Hedy Lamarr Invent Wi-Fi? + Name That: Spot the Fake Did Hedy Lamarr Invent Wi-Fi? + Name That: Spot the Fake Mon, 30 Sep 2024 23:57:00 +0000 We have some very special guests on this week's episode as TRC alumni Pat and Cristina join us with some great segments.  Cristina looks at the truth behind a viral meme that says that famous actress Hedy Lamarr invented Wi-Fi, and gives us some background on this fascinating woman's life.  Then Pat delights us with everyone's favourite mostly guessing game Name That: Spot The Fake.

]]> We have some very special guests on this week's episode as TRC alumni Pat and Cristina join us with some great segments. Cristina looks at the truth behind a viral meme that says that famous actress Hedy Lamarr invented Wi-Fi, and gives us some background on this fascinating woman's life. Then Pat delights us with everyone's favourite mostly guessing game Name That: Spot The Fake.

]]> 31:25 false 697 full TRC #696: Did Sakana AI Change Its Own Code? + Who is Margaret Hello? Did Sakana AI Change Its Own Code? + Who is Margaret Hello? Mon, 09 Sep 2024 11:38:00 +0000 Could an AI rewrite its own code? Has it perhaps already done so? Darren looks at the story which suggests that an AI Scientist, developed by Sakana AI, was able to change its own source code. What exactly happened and are you worried enough about it? Then Adam investigates the truth behind a viral claim that we say "hello" on the telephone because of Graham Bell's fiancée and assistant, Margaret Hello.

]]> Could an AI rewrite its own code? Has it perhaps already done so? Darren looks at the story which suggests that an AI Scientist, developed by Sakana AI, was able to change its own source code. What exactly happened and are you worried enough about it? Then Adam investigates the truth behind a viral claim that we say "hello" on the telephone because of Graham Bell's fiancée and assistant, Margaret Hello.

]]> 32:11 false 696 full TRC #695: The Science of Sharknado + Book Review: Invisible Rulers by Renée DiResta The Science of Sharknado + Book Review: Invisible Rulers by Renée DiResta Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:57:00 +0000 After having watched all six Sharknado films Adam decides to do some research into the science of these not at all ridiculous films, uncovering the truth about the plausibility and historical precedent for a tornado filled with living sharks. Darren gives us a book review of Renée DiResta's Invisible Rulers: The People Who Turn Lies into Reality, which explores how powerful influencers are able to affect what people believe.

]]> After having watched all six Sharknado films Adam decides to do some research into the science of these not at all ridiculous films, uncovering the truth about the plausibility and historical precedent for a tornado filled with living sharks. Darren gives us a book review of Renée DiResta's Invisible Rulers: The People Who Turn Lies into Reality, which explores how powerful influencers are able to affect what people believe.

]]> 38:08 false 695 full TRC #694: Can Meditation Be Harmful? + Did Cavemen Live in Caves? Can Meditation Be Harmful? + Did Cavemen Live in Caves? Mon, 12 Aug 2024 03:38:00 +0000 Could meditation ever be harmful? Darren examines the evidence to determine if meditation, which can have many benefits, might sometimes have a negative impact on people's lives. Adam looks at the idea of cavemen and wonders if, as their name suggests, that they really spent all that much time in caves.

]]> Could meditation ever be harmful? Darren examines the evidence to determine if meditation, which can have many benefits, might sometimes have a negative impact on people's lives. Adam looks at the idea of cavemen and wonders if, as their name suggests, that they really spent all that much time in caves.

]]> 33:42 false 694 full TRC #693: When Is Soap Not Really Soap? + Book Review: Determined When Is Soap Not Really Soap? + Book Review: Determined Mon, 15 Jul 2024 02:03:00 +0000 What's the difference between a bar of soap and the stuff we use to clean dishes, laundry and cars, and can you just use any of those in the shower? Adam tries to find out whether the stuff that's fit for baby ducks if good enough for you skin. Darren gives us a review of Determined: The Science of Life Without Free Will by Robert Sapolsky, which asks interesting questions about free will, whether we have it and what the implications are.

]]> What's the difference between a bar of soap and the stuff we use to clean dishes, laundry and cars, and can you just use any of those in the shower? Adam tries to find out whether the stuff that's fit for baby ducks if good enough for you skin. Darren gives us a review of Determined: The Science of Life Without Free Will by Robert Sapolsky, which asks interesting questions about free will, whether we have it and what the implications are.

]]> 30:49 false 693 full TRC #692: Cultivating Critical Thinking + Letting Food Cool Before Refrigerating It Cultivating Critical Thinking + Letting Food Cool Before Refrigerating It Tue, 02 Jul 2024 00:15:00 +0000 We look at some fundamental ways of cultivating critical thinking on the latest show.  Darren looks at some common cognitive biases and logical fallacies and how to use these in order to have a better more accurate understanding of the truth of the things we face every day.  Then Adam looks at the science behind the  belief that you should let your leftovers cool down at room temperature before putting them in the fridge.

]]> We look at some fundamental ways of cultivating critical thinking on the latest show. Darren looks at some common cognitive biases and logical fallacies and how to use these in order to have a better more accurate understanding of the truth of the things we face every day. Then Adam looks at the science behind the belief that you should let your leftovers cool down at room temperature before putting them in the fridge.

]]> 37:50 false 692 full TRC #691: Why Can't AI Do Laundry and Dishes? Why Can't AI Do Laundry and Dishes? Sun, 16 Jun 2024 19:12:00 +0000 Can we say that AI is going in the wrong direction, as it does our art and writing while we suffer doing laundry and dishes? It's just Adam on the show this week as he overanalyzes a viral tweet by looking at how much the time and way we do chores has changed for the better over the centuries, while looking at what AI could do to improve the situation.

]]> Can we say that AI is going in the wrong direction, as it does our art and writing while we suffer doing laundry and dishes? It's just Adam on the show this week as he overanalyzes a viral tweet by looking at how much the time and way we do chores has changed for the better over the centuries, while looking at what AI could do to improve the situation.

]]> 19:20 false 691 full TRC #690: Early Mammals + Would You Rather Encounter a Man or a Bear in the Woods? Early Mammals + Would You Rather Encounter a Man or a Bear in the Woods? Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:20:00 +0000 What were the first mammals like? Darren examines what characterizes a mammal and explores the world of early mammals, who coexisted with the dinosaurs. Adam investigates the discourse around a viral question which asks "Would you rather be stuck in a forest with a man or a bear?", using some simple statistics to inform the issue.

]]> What were the first mammals like? Darren examines what characterizes a mammal and explores the world of early mammals, who coexisted with the dinosaurs. Adam investigates the discourse around a viral question which asks "Would you rather be stuck in a forest with a man or a bear?", using some simple statistics to inform the issue.

]]> 32:25 false 690 full TRC #689: The Science of Dune's Sandworms + AI Personal Assistants The Science of Dune's Sandworms + AI Personal Assistants Mon, 20 May 2024 13:28:00 +0000 Could the huge Sandworms in Frank Herbert's Dune really exist?  Adam looks at how scientifically plausible these odd creatures might be.  In light of recent news about Open AI's GPT-4o and Google's Project Astra, Darren look at the latest advances in AI personal assistants, speculates where this could be leading and shares a passage from his book Uncontrollable on the topic.

]]> Could the huge Sandworms in Frank Herbert's Dune really exist? Adam looks at how scientifically plausible these odd creatures might be. In light of recent news about Open AI's GPT-4o and Google's Project Astra, Darren look at the latest advances in AI personal assistants, speculates where this could be leading and shares a passage from his book Uncontrollable on the topic.

]]> 37:05 false 689 full TRC #688: Interview with Spencer Greenberg Interview with Spencer Greenberg Sun, 05 May 2024 20:45:00 +0000 Spencer Greenberg is the founder Clearer Thinking, a web site which provides tools for critical thinking, as well as Transparent Replications, which does rapid replications of papers in psychology and behavioural studies. In this interview he discusses the replication crisis in scientific studies, what's causing it and what can be done to reduce these problems.

]]> Spencer Greenberg is the founder Clearer Thinking, a web site which provides tools for critical thinking, as well as Transparent Replications, which does rapid replications of papers in psychology and behavioural studies. In this interview he discusses the replication crisis in scientific studies, what's causing it and what can be done to reduce these problems.

]]> 32:50 false 688 full TRC #687: Remembering Daniel Dennett Remembering Daniel Dennett Mon, 22 Apr 2024 02:54:00 +0000 This past Friday, April 19th, philosopher Daniel Dennett passed away at the age of 82.  Throughout his life he has impacted many people through his work.  On this week's show Darren shares some of his thoughts on this great man and gives an overview of a few of his books.  Thank you Daniel Dennett.

]]> This past Friday, April 19th, philosopher Daniel Dennett passed away at the age of 82. Throughout his life he has impacted many people through his work. On this week's show Darren shares some of his thoughts on this great man and gives an overview of a few of his books. Thank you Daniel Dennett.

]]> 14:37 false 687 full TRC #686: The Stanford Prison Experiment + Is AI Taking Over Creative Jobs? The Stanford Prison Experiment + Is AI Taking Over Creative Jobs? Sun, 14 Apr 2024 19:25:00 +0000 Adam looks at evidence that the popular Stanford Prison Experiment was not as well run as we've heard which raises concerns about the conclusions we make from it.  Darren considers some recent events in the world of AI and wonders whether or not AI could soon be taking over some creative jobs.

]]> Adam looks at evidence that the popular Stanford Prison Experiment was not as well run as we've heard which raises concerns about the conclusions we make from it. Darren considers some recent events in the world of AI and wonders whether or not AI could soon be taking over some creative jobs.

]]> 33:08 false 686 full TRC #685: AI More Creative Than Humans? + Safe Solar Eclipse Viewing AI More Creative Than Humans? + Safe Solar Eclipse Viewing Sun, 31 Mar 2024 15:25:00 +0000 Artificial Intelligence or Artificial Creativity?  Can an AI be more creative than a human?  Darren looks at a study which attempts to answer this question.  With the upcoming solar eclipse occurring in North America on April 8th, Adam examines the risk of staring at the sun and gives some tips on how to view an eclipse safely.

]]> Artificial Intelligence or Artificial Creativity? Can an AI be more creative than a human? Darren looks at a study which attempts to answer this question. With the upcoming solar eclipse occurring in North America on April 8th, Adam examines the risk of staring at the sun and gives some tips on how to view an eclipse safely.

]]> 34:57 false 685 full TRC #684: Aliens in Mexican Congress? + Book Review: Outlive by Peter Attia Aliens in Mexican Congress? + Book Review: Outlive by Peter Attia Sun, 17 Mar 2024 17:20:00 +0000 I'm not saying they're aliens but … they're aliens. Adam uses hard hitting science to evaluate the validity of these allegedly non human mummified remains which were presented to the Mexican Congress in the fall. A shocking discovery which puts into question everything we know about our world or a hoax? Darren gives us a review of Peter Attia's book Outlive, an exploration of the science behind living a longer and better life.

]]> I'm not saying they're aliens but … they're aliens. Adam uses hard hitting science to evaluate the validity of these allegedly non human mummified remains which were presented to the Mexican Congress in the fall. A shocking discovery which puts into question everything we know about our world or a hoax? Darren gives us a review of Peter Attia's book Outlive, an exploration of the science behind living a longer and better life.

]]> 33:11 false 684 full TRC #683: AI News: Sora, Gemini 1.5 and Implications + Jailbreaks by Hiding Files in Cakes AI News: Sora, Gemini 1.5 and Implications + Jailbreaks by Hiding Files in Cakes Sat, 02 Mar 2024 21:31:00 +0000 Darren gives us a news roundup of some recent things happening in the world of AI including OpenAI's text to video tool Sora, Google Deepmind's Gemini 1.5, as well as what implications this and other upcoming technologies could have on our lives.  Adam tries to find out if there was ever anyone who really baked a file into a cake to break out of jail as many children's cartoons have lead us to believe.

]]> Darren gives us a news roundup of some recent things happening in the world of AI including OpenAI's text to video tool Sora, Google Deepmind's Gemini 1.5, as well as what implications this and other upcoming technologies could have on our lives. Adam tries to find out if there was ever anyone who really baked a file into a cake to break out of jail as many children's cartoons have lead us to believe.

]]> 35:00 false 683 full TRC #682: Oppenheimer Movie Discussion Oppenheimer Movie Discussion Sun, 18 Feb 2024 19:22:00 +0000 We try something a little different on the latest episode of The Reality Check. Having recently seen the movie Oppenheimer Darren and Adam have a discussion about this great film. If you haven't seen the movie already it might be a good idea to check it out before listening to the show!

]]> We try something a little different on the latest episode of The Reality Check. Having recently seen the movie Oppenheimer Darren and Adam have a discussion about this great film. If you haven't seen the movie already it might be a good idea to check it out before listening to the show!

]]> 27:57 false 682 full TRC #681: Are Poinsettias Poisonous? + Mickey Mouse and the Public Domain Are Poinsettias Poisonous? + Mickey Mouse and the Public Domain Sun, 04 Feb 2024 20:24:00 +0000 Put down that poinsettia salad, checkers.  Darren looks into a popular myth that poinsettia plants are poisonous to animals, including people.  Then Adam looks into what's been going on with Mickey Mouse and Steamboat Willie as he explores trademark, copyright and what it means to enter the public domain.

]]> Put down that poinsettia salad, checkers. Darren looks into a popular myth that poinsettia plants are poisonous to animals, including people. Then Adam looks into what's been going on with Mickey Mouse and Steamboat Willie as he explores trademark, copyright and what it means to enter the public domain.

]]> 26:03 false 681 full TRC #680: Annual Predictions: 2024 Edition + Down Syndrome Strength + A Special Message From Pat and Cristina Annual Predictions: 2024 Edition + Down Syndrome Strength + A Special Message From Pat and Cristina Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:56:00 +0000 This year we retire our annual prediction segment with a final look back at how accurate, or rather how innacurate, we were in our predictions of what would happen in 2023. Darren examines the validity of a popular claim that people with Down syndrome are stronger. Finally we end the show with a special announcement from Pat and Cristina.

]]> This year we retire our annual prediction segment with a final look back at how accurate, or rather how innacurate, we were in our predictions of what would happen in 2023. Darren examines the validity of a popular claim that people with Down syndrome are stronger. Finally we end the show with a special announcement from Pat and Cristina.

]]> 37:56 false 680 full TRC #679: A Chat With Author Darren McKee: Uncontrollable A Chat With Author Darren McKee: Uncontrollable Sat, 23 Dec 2023 21:25:00 +0000 The crew gets to interview TRC's very own Darren McKee, author of the critically acclaimed book, 'Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World'. We chat about the challenges of writing a first book, some of the key takeaways, and have a few laughs along the way.

]]> The crew gets to interview TRC's very own Darren McKee, author of the critically acclaimed book, 'Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World'. We chat about the challenges of writing a first book, some of the key takeaways, and have a few laughs along the way.

]]> 30:33 false 679 full TRC #678: Darren's AI Book is Out! Darren's AI Book is Out! Sun, 26 Nov 2023 20:58:00 +0000 Wondering what the heck is going on with AI?  Why are some people so concerned?

Darren's new beginner-friendly book Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World addresses exactly those questions.

In an engaging and easy-to-read style, it explores the promise and peril of advanced AI, why it might be a threat, and what we can do about it. No technical or science background required! 

Available on:

Amazon US 

Amazon Canada

and many other Amazon marketplaces as well.

 

]]> Wondering what the heck is going on with AI? Why are some people so concerned?

Darren's new beginner-friendly book Uncontrollable: The Threat of Artificial Superintelligence and the Race to Save the World addresses exactly those questions.

In an engaging and easy-to-read style, it explores the promise and peril of advanced AI, why it might be a threat, and what we can do about it. No technical or science background required!

Available on:

Amazon US

Amazon Canada

and many other Amazon marketplaces as well.

]]> 06:25 false 678 full TRC #677: Interview with Yoshua Bengio Interview with Yoshua Bengio Tue, 21 Nov 2023 18:19:00 +0000 World-renowned AI expert Yoshua Bengio talks with Darren McKee and Adam Gardner about his long career, why advanced AI could be harmful, and whether open-source of powerful AI models is a risk.

]]> World-renowned AI expert Yoshua Bengio talks with Darren McKee and Adam Gardner about his long career, why advanced AI could be harmful, and whether open-source of powerful AI models is a risk.

]]> 59:01 false 677 full TRC #676: Phenylephrine Ineffective? + Bees Are Doing Fine Phenylephrine Ineffective? + Bees Are Doing Fine Mon, 23 Oct 2023 21:15:00 +0000 Cristina delves into the latest FDA advisory announcement shedding light on the ineffectiveness of phenylephrine, a widely used ingredient in several nasal decongestants. Adam revisits the myriad of news stories and worries surrounding bees and the issue of colony collapse disorder.

]]> Cristina delves into the latest FDA advisory announcement shedding light on the ineffectiveness of phenylephrine, a widely used ingredient in several nasal decongestants. Adam revisits the myriad of news stories and worries surrounding bees and the issue of colony collapse disorder.

]]> 24:57 false 676 full TRC #675: Mashup: The Centrifuge Brain Project + Avril Double + V-Steaming Mashup: The Centrifuge Brain Project + Avril Double + V-Steaming Tue, 03 Oct 2023 20:08:00 +0000 It's another mashup where we give you three segments from previous shows.  First we revisit Pat's deep dive on a viral video of an amusement park ride.  Next Adam takes on an Avril Lavigne conspiracy that she died and was replaced by a double.  Finally, Cristina does what Cristina does… taking on Gwyneth Paltrow.

]]> It's another mashup where we give you three segments from previous shows. First we revisit Pat's deep dive on a viral video of an amusement park ride. Next Adam takes on an Avril Lavigne conspiracy that she died and was replaced by a double. Finally, Cristina does what Cristina does… taking on Gwyneth Paltrow.

]]> 30:30 false 675 full TRC #674: How Does AI Image Generation Work? + Why Is A Bug Called A Bug? How Does AI Image Generation Work? + Why Is A Bug Called A Bug? Tue, 29 Aug 2023 19:09:00 +0000 Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, Dall-e. Darren digs into an explanation of how artificial intelligence generates images and whether or not it is just copying.  Cristina looks at the fascinating history of why a computer glitch is called a bug. 

 

]]> Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, Dall-e. Darren digs into an explanation of how artificial intelligence generates images and whether or not it is just copying. Cristina looks at the fascinating history of why a computer glitch is called a bug.

]]> 30:25 false 674 full TRC #673: UFO Whistleblower? + Will We Make Great Pets For An Artificial Super Intelligence? UFO Whistleblower? + Will We Make Great Pets For An Artificial Super Intelligence? Wed, 09 Aug 2023 21:13:00 +0000 Adam digs into recent headlines about UFOs and whistleblower David Grusch.  Does this give any promising evidence that aliens may be among us?  Next Darren ponders how our future AI overlords might treat us. Assuming they don't eliminate us, will we make great pets?  It's a new TRC!

 

]]> Adam digs into recent headlines about UFOs and whistleblower David Grusch. Does this give any promising evidence that aliens may be among us? Next Darren ponders how our future AI overlords might treat us. Assuming they don't eliminate us, will we make great pets? It's a new TRC!

]]> 30:52 false 673 full TRC #672: Are Fingerprints Really Unique? + What's A Buttload? + Why AI Researchers Don't Quit Are Fingerprints Really Unique? + What's A Buttload? + Why AI Researchers Don't Quit Sat, 15 Jul 2023 21:11:00 +0000 Cristina kicks off the show with a deep dive into the history of forensic fingerprinting and challenges a commonly accepted notion that no two fingerprints are alike. Adam brings us a buttload of a segment when he probes into the origin and meaning of the term. Darren rounds out the show with an always fascinating look into the world of AI, specifically why given extinction concerns, AI researchers don't quit.

]]> Cristina kicks off the show with a deep dive into the history of forensic fingerprinting and challenges a commonly accepted notion that no two fingerprints are alike. Adam brings us a buttload of a segment when he probes into the origin and meaning of the term. Darren rounds out the show with an always fascinating look into the world of AI, specifically why given extinction concerns, AI researchers don't quit.

]]> 36:16 false 672 full TRC #671: Uncertainty And AI Risk + Spot The Fake Uncertainty And AI Risk + Spot The Fake Sun, 25 Jun 2023 19:24:00 +0000 Darren shares some thoughts and leads an interesting discussion about what might be reasonable approaches to the difficult and complicated topic of artificial intelligence. Pat brings us another smashing game of "Name That: Spot The Fake." Can you do better than the TRC crew?

 

]]> Darren shares some thoughts and leads an interesting discussion about what might be reasonable approaches to the difficult and complicated topic of artificial intelligence. Pat brings us another smashing game of "Name That: Spot The Fake." Can you do better than the TRC crew?

]]> 35:36 false 671 full TRC #670: Mashup: Fire and Smoke Mashup: Fire and Smoke Sat, 10 Jun 2023 13:34:00 +0000 The TRC crew brings you a mashup about fire and smoke.  Adam looks into headlines about the Amazon rainforest. The facts may surprise you.  Pat addresses a listener's question about whether the rainforest is the Earth's lungs responsible for 20% of the oxygen we breathe. Darren investigates whether wood fires pose a danger to your health.

]]> The TRC crew brings you a mashup about fire and smoke. Adam looks into headlines about the Amazon rainforest. The facts may surprise you. Pat addresses a listener's question about whether the rainforest is the Earth's lungs responsible for 20% of the oxygen we breathe. Darren investigates whether wood fires pose a danger to your health.

]]> 37:02 false 670 full TRC #669: Coronal Mass Ejection + The Technology Trap Coronal Mass Ejection + The Technology Trap Mon, 29 May 2023 14:21:00 +0000 In March of this year, auroras were seen in many places on earth.  Though the auroras are usually seen far up north on the globe they can occur further south.  But what are the risks associated with this kind of event?  "The Technology Trap" by Carl Benedikt Frey looks at how the history of technology can help us better understand economic and political polarization in the age of automation.  Darren gives us a review. 

]]> In March of this year, auroras were seen in many places on earth. Though the auroras are usually seen far up north on the globe they can occur further south. But what are the risks associated with this kind of event? "The Technology Trap" by Carl Benedikt Frey looks at how the history of technology can help us better understand economic and political polarization in the age of automation. Darren gives us a review.

]]> 27:20 false 669 full TRC #668: Dark Chocolate Has Heavy Metals? + What Happened To The Dinosaurs? Dark Chocolate Has Heavy Metals? + What Happened To The Dinosaurs? Mon, 15 May 2023 14:14:00 +0000 A recent study done by Consumer Reports shows that dark chocolate bars contain lead and cadmium.  Should you be concerned? Cristina digs into it.  Next, after watching the movie "65", Adam looks at the debate about how dinosaurs went extinct and when.

]]> A recent study done by Consumer Reports shows that dark chocolate bars contain lead and cadmium. Should you be concerned? Cristina digs into it. Next, after watching the movie "65", Adam looks at the debate about how dinosaurs went extinct and when.

]]> 30:27 false 668 full TRC #667: Special Intro + A Chat With Karl Mamer A Chat With Karl Mamer Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:17:00 +0000 Pat puppeteers a delicious intro. Finally, what took us so long? We had a chat with Canadian podcast pioneer and author Karl Mamer. Karl has a new book out called "The Skeptics Book of Lists". He's a fascinating character with many stories to tell. We hope you enjoy!

]]> Pat puppeteers a delicious intro. Finally, what took us so long? We had a chat with Canadian podcast pioneer and author Karl Mamer. Karl has a new book out called "The Skeptics Book of Lists". He's a fascinating character with many stories to tell. We hope you enjoy!

]]> 36:33 false 667 full TRC #666: The Number Of The Beast Origins + Name That: Spot The Fake The Number Of The Beast Origins + Name That: Spot The Fake Tue, 11 Apr 2023 21:57:00 +0000 Welcome to episode 6-6-6! Darren does a deep dive on the digits steeped in the Book of Revelation and why some historically associate it with the 'number of the beast'. Pat challenges the crew to a fresh and always fun installment of Name That: Spot The Fake. Can you do better than the TRC crew?

]]> Welcome to episode 6-6-6! Darren does a deep dive on the digits steeped in the Book of Revelation and why some historically associate it with the 'number of the beast'. Pat challenges the crew to a fresh and always fun installment of Name That: Spot The Fake. Can you do better than the TRC crew?

]]> 30:05 false 666 full TRC #665: Is It Safe To Stand In Front of Microwave Ovens? Interview with Dr. Roman Yampolskiy About The Simulation Hypothesis Is It Safe To Stand In Front of Microwave Ovens? Interview with Dr. Roman Yampolskiy About The Simulation Hypothesis Sun, 26 Mar 2023 23:31:00 +0000 Cristina investigates a pervasive belief that standing in front of a microwave oven poses health risks. Darren and Adam have another fascinating discussion with Dr. Roman Yampolskiy. This time it's about his recent work regarding the Simulation Hypothesis, which proposes that all of our existence is a simulated reality. Dr. Yampolskiy is a computer scientist at the University of Louisville where he is the Director of the Cyber Security Laboratory in the Department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science. He is an author of over 100 publications including numerous books.

]]> Cristina investigates a pervasive belief that standing in front of a microwave oven poses health risks. Darren and Adam have another fascinating discussion with Dr. Roman Yampolskiy. This time it's about his recent work regarding the Simulation Hypothesis, which proposes that all of our existence is a simulated reality. Dr. Yampolskiy is a computer scientist at the University of Louisville where he is the Director of the Cyber Security Laboratory in the Department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science. He is an author of over 100 publications including numerous books.

]]> 30:45 false 665 full TRC #664: Thundersnow + Customer Always Right? + A Look At "The Metaverse" TRC #664: Thundersnow + Customer Always Right? + A Look At "The Metaverse" Sun, 05 Mar 2023 23:29:00 +0000 Cristina digs into the rare weather occurrence called thundersnow after witnessing lightning and thunder during a recent snowstorm. Adam checks the origins of 'the customer is always right in matters of taste', and asks, are they? Darren rounds out the show with a look at Matthew Ball's best-selling book "The Metaverse: And How It Will Revolutionize Everything".

 

]]> Cristina digs into the rare weather occurrence called thundersnow after witnessing lightning and thunder during a recent snowstorm. Adam checks the origins of 'the customer is always right in matters of taste', and asks, are they? Darren rounds out the show with a look at Matthew Ball's best-selling book "The Metaverse: And How It Will Revolutionize Everything".

]]> 24:05 false 664 full TRC #663: Interview with Dr. Roman Yampolskiy About The Threat Of Advanced AI Interview with Dr. Roman Yampolskiy About The Threat Of Advanced AI Sat, 18 Feb 2023 20:32:00 +0000 Dr. Roman Yampolskiy is a computer scientist at the University of Louisville where he is the director of the Cyber Security Laboratory in the department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science. He is an author of over 100 publications including numerous books. 

]]> Dr. Roman Yampolskiy is a computer scientist at the University of Louisville where he is the director of the Cyber Security Laboratory in the department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science. He is an author of over 100 publications including numerous books.

]]> 57:58 false 663 full TRC #662: Annual Prediction Show - 2023 Edition Annual Prediction Show - 2023 Edition Sat, 04 Feb 2023 20:12:00 +0000 In what has become a yearly ritual to highlight the futility of 'predictions', Adam, Producer Pat, and Cristina guess at what might happen in 2023 and revisit the panel's 2022 predictions to see how they did.

]]> In what has become a yearly ritual to highlight the futility of 'predictions', Adam, Producer Pat, and Cristina guess at what might happen in 2023 and revisit the panel's 2022 predictions to see how they did.

]]> 35:20 false 662 full TRC #661: Isaac Asimov's Laws Of Robotics + The Apple Logo = The Fall Of Man? Isaac Asimov's Laws Of Robotics + The Apple Logo = The Fall Of Man? Sun, 15 Jan 2023 17:28:00 +0000 Happy New Year, Checkers! Darren lays out the Three Laws of Robotics, as devised by science fiction author Isaac Asimov, and why they are seemingly reasonable yet flawed. Adam bites into a segment about the Apple logo and ponders whether it's based on the biblical apple that signifies the Fall of Man. 

]]> Happy New Year, Checkers! Darren lays out the Three Laws of Robotics, as devised by science fiction author Isaac Asimov, and why they are seemingly reasonable yet flawed. Adam bites into a segment about the Apple logo and ponders whether it's based on the biblical apple that signifies the Fall of Man.

]]> 26:11 false 661 full TRC #660: Did Coca-Cola Conceive Modern Santa? + Eight Billion People? Did Coca-Cola Conceive Modern Santa? + Eight Billion People? Sat, 24 Dec 2022 00:33:00 +0000 'Twas the night before Christmas so Cristina asks the proverbial question…did Coca-Cola really invent the now ubiquitous image of Santa Claus? Adam rounds out the show checking claims that the world's population hit 8 billion people on November 15, 2022. Have a safe and happy holiday, Checkers and thank you for listening!

]]> 'Twas the night before Christmas so Cristina asks the proverbial question…did Coca-Cola really invent the now ubiquitous image of Santa Claus? Adam rounds out the show checking claims that the world's population hit 8 billion people on November 15, 2022. Have a safe and happy holiday, Checkers and thank you for listening!

]]> 25:18 false 660 full TRC #659: Chatting ChatGPT + LED Masks Worth The Hype? + Play Along With Spot The Fake Chatting ChatGPT + LED Masks Worth The Hype? + Play Along With Spot The Fake Sun, 11 Dec 2022 18:55:00 +0000 Le Gang is back! The freethinking foursome kick off the show with Darren taking us down an entertaining rabbithole that is the AI text bot, ChatGPT. Cristina investigates if at-home cosmetic LED masks are worth the hype and introduces us to evidence-based YouTubers Doctorly in the process. Finally, Pat orchestrates a delightful - as Darren would say - game of Name That: Spot The Fake.

]]> Le Gang is back! The freethinking foursome kick off the show with Darren taking us down an entertaining rabbithole that is the AI text bot, ChatGPT. Cristina investigates if at-home cosmetic LED masks are worth the hype and introduces us to evidence-based YouTubers Doctorly in the process. Finally, Pat orchestrates a delightful - as Darren would say - game of Name That: Spot The Fake.

]]> 39:49 false 659 full TRC #658: Iran Protest Misinfo + Medieval Peasants Worked Less + What Is A Slug? Iran Protest Misinfo + Medieval Peasants Worked Less + What Is A Slug? Sun, 27 Nov 2022 21:24:00 +0000 Darren clears up some misinformation about a viral post that Iran was planning to execute 15,000 protesters.  Adam looks into a claim that medieval peasants work far fewer hours than we do in modern times.  Lastly we check in with our fifth Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins, about the slug in response to a listener email.

]]> Darren clears up some misinformation about a viral post that Iran was planning to execute 15,000 protesters. Adam looks into a claim that medieval peasants work far fewer hours than we do in modern times. Lastly we check in with our fifth Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins, about the slug in response to a listener email.

]]> 22:40 false 658 full TRC #657: Greenwashing + Is Social Media Bad For Us? Greenwashing + Is Social Media Bad For Us? Tue, 15 Nov 2022 22:06:00 +0000 Greenwashing is making unsubstantiated claims to deceive consumers into believing that a company's products are environmentally friendly.  Cristina takes us through it. Darren asks: Is social media bad for us?  The answer must be yes, right? As usual, it's complicated.

]]> Greenwashing is making unsubstantiated claims to deceive consumers into believing that a company's products are environmentally friendly. Cristina takes us through it. Darren asks: Is social media bad for us? The answer must be yes, right? As usual, it's complicated.

]]> 25:55 false 657 full TRC #656: Origins Of Halloween + Halloween Myths + Less Kids Trick Or Treating? Origins Of Halloween + Halloween Myths + Less Kids Trick Or Treating? Mon, 31 Oct 2022 17:28:00 +0000 It's an all hallows eve mashup!  Darren takes us through the interesting history of Halloween.  Cristina debunks some long held Halloween myths and, lastly,  Adam wonders if less kids are trick or treating. 

]]> It's an all hallows eve mashup! Darren takes us through the interesting history of Halloween. Cristina debunks some long held Halloween myths and, lastly, Adam wonders if less kids are trick or treating.

]]> 28:38 false 656 full TRC #655: Is Nuclear Power Racist? Sexist? Ageist? + Lenses With Stuart Robbins Is Nuclear Power Racist? Sexist? Ageist? + Lenses With Stuart Robbins Mon, 17 Oct 2022 19:19:00 +0000 Adam ran into a recent article which posed questions about whether nuclear power presents issues of racism, sexism and ageism.  He takes a deep dive and explores if and how this could be true.  Next up, our favourite astronomer and 5th Beatle joins us to talk all about lenses, following up on a segment about daredevil "Mad Mike" Hughes who died in a homemade rocket attempting to "prove" the Earth is flat.

]]> Adam ran into a recent article which posed questions about whether nuclear power presents issues of racism, sexism and ageism. He takes a deep dive and explores if and how this could be true. Next up, our favourite astronomer and 5th Beatle joins us to talk all about lenses, following up on a segment about daredevil "Mad Mike" Hughes who died in a homemade rocket attempting to "prove" the Earth is flat.

]]> 29:02 false 655 full TRC #654: What Is Inflation? + John von Neumann: The Man From The Future What Is Inflation? + John von Neumann: The Man From The Future Sun, 11 Sep 2022 16:51:57 +0000 Darren is joined by our resident economics expert, Lars, for an interesting conversation about inflation, deflation and related economic issues. Darren and Lars discuss the biography "The Man from the Future: The Visionary Life of John von Neumann", who is a revered mathematician, physicist, computer scientist, engineer and polymath.

]]> Darren is joined by our resident economics expert, Lars, for an interesting conversation about inflation, deflation and related economic issues. Darren and Lars discuss the biography "The Man from the Future: The Visionary Life of John von Neumann", who is a revered mathematician, physicist, computer scientist, engineer and polymath.

]]> 30:46 false 654 full TRC #653: Ethics In Scientific Research with Dr. Robbins and Dr. Robbins Ethics In Scientific Research with Dr. Robbins and Dr. Robbins Thu, 25 Aug 2022 14:32:40 +0000 On Saturday the world lost a world renowned cardiovascular researcher in a tragic accident.  It was the day of his 50th wedding anniversary. Over the course of his 50-year career, he published more than 250 peer-reviewed scientific articles and his work has earned some of the most prestigious research awards.

His name was Dr. Jeffrey Robbins, father of our good friend and TRC's 5th Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins. In honour of Stuart's father and his scientific legacy, we are running an interview Stuart did with him in 2014 for his Exposing PseudoAstronomy podcast about ethics in scientific research. Our hearts go out to Stuart and his family. 

]]> On Saturday the world lost a world renowned cardiovascular researcher in a tragic accident. It was the day of his 50th wedding anniversary. Over the course of his 50-year career, he published more than 250 peer-reviewed scientific articles and his work has earned some of the most prestigious research awards.

His name was Dr. Jeffrey Robbins, father of our good friend and TRC's 5th Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins. In honour of Stuart's father and his scientific legacy, we are running an interview Stuart did with him in 2014 for his Exposing PseudoAstronomy podcast about ethics in scientific research. Our hearts go out to Stuart and his family.

]]> 55:56 false 653 full TRC #652: JWST With Dr. Stu Robbins + Rogers Outage JWST With Dr. Stu Robbins + Rogers Outage Thu, 04 Aug 2022 00:43:09 +0000 It's been a while since we had our favourite planetary scientist Astro Stu on the show! Stuart gives us a breakdown on the James Webb Space Telescope, what we're seeing in released images, and what's next for the mission. Adam rounds out the show with a look into the recent "massive" Rogers Communications outage that disrupted telecommunication services for over a quarter of Canada's population.

]]> It's been a while since we had our favourite planetary scientist Astro Stu on the show! Stuart gives us a breakdown on the James Webb Space Telescope, what we're seeing in released images, and what's next for the mission. Adam rounds out the show with a look into the recent "massive" Rogers Communications outage that disrupted telecommunication services for over a quarter of Canada's population.

]]> 30:12 false 652 full TRC #651: LaMDA Sentient? + Is Chlorine Smell From Pee? + 'Reality+' Overview LaMDA Sentient? + Is Chlorine Smell From Pee? + 'Reality+' Overview Wed, 13 Jul 2022 01:59:54 +0000 Le Gang is back together at last! We kick off with an interesting discussion about a claim that the Google LaMDA Chatbot has become sentient. Adam investigates whether the smell most people associate with chlorine is due to its reaction with pee. Darren rounds out the show with a look at David Chalmers' book 'Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy', an analysis of our technological future.

 

]]> Le Gang is back together at last! We kick off with an interesting discussion about a claim that the Google LaMDA Chatbot has become sentient. Adam investigates whether the smell most people associate with chlorine is due to its reaction with pee. Darren rounds out the show with a look at David Chalmers' book 'Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy', an analysis of our technological future.

]]> 32:42 false 651 full TRC #650: Dishwasher Vs Hand Washing + Dog Breed & Behavior + 'The Road To Unfreedom' Dishwasher Vs Hand Washing + Dog Breed & Behavior + 'The Road To Unfreedom' Mon, 06 Jun 2022 19:55:29 +0000 In an effort to settle a hot household debate, Cristina looks into whether it's more eco and pocket friendly to hand wash dishes versus using your dishwasher. Adam checks out a new study that suggests dog personalities have little to do with their breed. Lastly, Darren gives us an overview of the bestselling book, "The Road to Unfreedom" by Timothy Snyder, which chronicles the rise of authoritarianism.

]]> In an effort to settle a hot household debate, Cristina looks into whether it's more eco and pocket friendly to hand wash dishes versus using your dishwasher. Adam checks out a new study that suggests dog personalities have little to do with their breed. Lastly, Darren gives us an overview of the bestselling book, "The Road to Unfreedom" by Timothy Snyder, which chronicles the rise of authoritarianism.

]]> 27:05 false 650 full TRC #649: Is Russia Committing Genocide In Ukraine? + No Ugly Old Buildings? Is Russia Committing Genocide In Ukraine? + No Ugly Old Buildings? Sun, 24 Apr 2022 16:08:06 +0000 Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 and since that time have committed all manner of atrocities. But is it genocide?  Darren tackles this difficult topic.  Next, Adam looks into the idea that there are no ugly old buildings and survivorship bias.]]> 24:04 false 649 full TRC #648: Slapgate Conspiracy + The Science Of Moonfall Slapgate Conspiracy + The Science Of Moonfall Mon, 18 Apr 2022 21:37:17 +0000 As Will Smith's slap during the Academy Awards trends online, a picture of the moment has gone viral suggesting Chris Rock wore a prosthetic cheek pad. Cristina digs into it. Next, Adam takes a look at the science, or more precisely lack thereof, in the latest sci-fi flick, "Moonfall".  

]]> As Will Smith's slap during the Academy Awards trends online, a picture of the moment has gone viral suggesting Chris Rock wore a prosthetic cheek pad. Cristina digs into it. Next, Adam takes a look at the science, or more precisely lack thereof, in the latest sci-fi flick, "Moonfall".

]]> 30:09 false 648 full TRC #647: Coalitions Are Democratic? Coalitions Are Democratic? Fri, 08 Apr 2022 18:11:51 +0000 On Tuesday, March 22, the Liberals and New Democratic Party announced a confidence and supply agreement to further each of their interests.  Darren takes a look at whether this is undemocratic, whether it is what Canadians voted for and if it's a "backroom deal".

]]> On Tuesday, March 22, the Liberals and New Democratic Party announced a confidence and supply agreement to further each of their interests. Darren takes a look at whether this is undemocratic, whether it is what Canadians voted for and if it's a "backroom deal".

]]> 09:36 false 647 full TRC #646: Donating During Disasters + Domestication Syndrome + 'Intellectuals and Society' By Thomas Sowell Donating During Disasters + Domestication Syndrome + 'Intellectuals and Society' By Thomas Sowell Sun, 27 Mar 2022 21:32:33 +0000 Cristina looks at the dark side of charitable donation and shares valuable advice and insight from Humanitarian Logistics expert Dale Herzog. Adam dives into new research around domesticated silver foxes and revisits Animal Domestication Syndrome. Darren reviews Thomas Sowell's 'Intellectuals and Society' - a discussion on the relevance of intellectuals - and he has some feelings about it.

]]> Cristina looks at the dark side of charitable donation and shares valuable advice and insight from Humanitarian Logistics expert Dale Herzog. Adam dives into new research around domesticated silver foxes and revisits Animal Domestication Syndrome. Darren reviews Thomas Sowell's 'Intellectuals and Society' - a discussion on the relevance of intellectuals - and he has some feelings about it.

]]> 26:02 false 646 full TRC #645: The Panther of Kharkiv The Panther of Kharkiv Thu, 17 Mar 2022 19:10:31 +0000 Short show for you this week. The internet was recently abuzz about a cat named Mikael.  Supposedly, Ukrainian army cats were trained to spot and direct the location of Russian sniper lasers. The story discussed was of Mikael, "The Panther of Kharkiv", who followed laser spots to identify four snipers, leading to their deaths.  This is indeed Adam's wheelhouse and he digs in to find the truth.

]]> Short show for you this week. The internet was recently abuzz about a cat named Mikael. Supposedly, Ukrainian army cats were trained to spot and direct the location of Russian sniper lasers. The story discussed was of Mikael, "The Panther of Kharkiv", who followed laser spots to identify four snipers, leading to their deaths. This is indeed Adam's wheelhouse and he digs in to find the truth.

]]> 09:09 false 645 full TRC #644: Ottawa Convoy Confusion Ottawa Convoy Confusion Sat, 19 Feb 2022 20:49:33 +0000 The trucks, the honking, the bouncy castles, the hot tubs. It's all Darren today. As a resident in downtown Ottawa, he gives us his thoughts on the "freedom convoy" which has been occupying the city centre for over three weeks. Are the international stories correct? What do the protestors want, and have they really been peaceful?]]> 34:26 false 644 full TRC #643: Catalytic Converters + Masked People More Attractive? + New Year's Resolutions Catalytic Converters + Masked People More Attractive? + New Year's Resolutions Sun, 13 Feb 2022 23:52:02 +0000 Cristina looks into why thefts of catalytic converters in cars has soared lately. Adam takes a skeptical lens to recent headlines suggesting that wearing face masks make people seem more attractive. Finally, Darren brings us a fascinating exploration of New Year's resolutions and considers why humans make them.

]]> Cristina looks into why thefts of catalytic converters in cars has soared lately. Adam takes a skeptical lens to recent headlines suggesting that wearing face masks make people seem more attractive. Finally, Darren brings us a fascinating exploration of New Year's resolutions and considers why humans make them.

]]> 31:32 false 643 full TRC #642: Annual Prediction Show: 2022 Edition Annual Prediction Show: 2022 Edition Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:29:01 +0000 In what has become a yearly ritual to highlight the futility of 'predictions', Adam, Producer Pat, and Cristina guess at what might happen in the new year and look back on our guesses from last year.

]]> In what has become a yearly ritual to highlight the futility of 'predictions', Adam, Producer Pat, and Cristina guess at what might happen in the new year and look back on our guesses from last year.

]]> 47:58 false 642 full TRC #641: Dangers Of High Density Crowds + Memes: Conspiracies Or Clickbait? + 'Rationality' By Steven Pinker Dangers Of High Density Crowds + Memes: Conspiracies Or Clickbait? + 'Rationality' By Steven Pinker Thu, 23 Dec 2021 17:37:04 +0000 Cristina delves into the fascinating yet terrifying science of high density crowds in light of the recent Astroworld music festival tragedy. Adam takes a closer look behind popular memes. Are they data mining, pushing elaborate conspiracy theories, or just plain old clickbait? Darren gives us a great overview of Steven Pinker's latest book "Rationality", which explores the concept of collective rationality in society.

]]> Cristina delves into the fascinating yet terrifying science of high density crowds in light of the recent Astroworld music festival tragedy. Adam takes a closer look behind popular memes. Are they data mining, pushing elaborate conspiracy theories, or just plain old clickbait? Darren gives us a great overview of Steven Pinker's latest book "Rationality", which explores the concept of collective rationality in society.

]]> 34:23 false 641 full TRC #640: Effective Donating 2021 + Longest Lunar Eclipse? Effective Donating 2021 + Longest Lunar Eclipse? Wed, 01 Dec 2021 15:12:45 +0000 Darren brings us an important overview of the recent updates from the charity evaluation website GiveWell to help inform your charity donation decisions this holiday season. Adam rounds out the show by scrutinizing claims that the recent lunar eclipse was the longest eclipse of this century and next.

]]> Darren brings us an important overview of the recent updates from the charity evaluation website GiveWell to help inform your charity donation decisions this holiday season. Adam rounds out the show by scrutinizing claims that the recent lunar eclipse was the longest eclipse of this century and next.

]]> 26:22 false 640 full TRC #639: Mae Jemison + House Prices + Superman vs Phone Booth Mae Jemison + House Prices + Superman vs Phone Booth Mon, 22 Nov 2021 18:59:37 +0000 Cristina shines a spotlight on the incredible career of the first African-American female in space, Dr. Mae Jemison, and shares some fun Star Trek trivia. Adam takes a look behind the factors contributing to higher house prices to determine if they're going up as much as we think. Darren goes meta with a deep dive into how often Superman really changes in a phone booth.

]]> Cristina shines a spotlight on the incredible career of the first African-American female in space, Dr. Mae Jemison, and shares some fun Star Trek trivia. Adam takes a look behind the factors contributing to higher house prices to determine if they're going up as much as we think. Darren goes meta with a deep dive into how often Superman really changes in a phone booth.

]]> 38:58 false 639 full TRC #638: Human Augmentation Human Augmentation Mon, 01 Nov 2021 15:11:35 +0000 Darren delivers a compelling synopsis of a report released by the UK Department of Defence earlier this year regarding the field of Human Augmentation. Could integrating the abilities of both people and machines be critical to winning future wars?

]]> Darren delivers a compelling synopsis of a report released by the UK Department of Defence earlier this year regarding the field of Human Augmentation. Could integrating the abilities of both people and machines be critical to winning future wars?

]]> 33:51 false 638 full TRC #637: COVID App Privacy Vulnerability? + 'Spot The Fake' + 'The Next 500 Years' COVID App Privacy Vulnerability? + 'Spot The Fake' + 'The Next 500 Years' Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:58:55 +0000 Adam discovers a vulnerability in the new COVID Verify Ontario app that allows an easy way for anyone to see personal information contained in someone's Quebec QR code. Pat challenges the crew with an always-entertaining game of 'Spot The Fake'. Lastly, Darren gives us a quick take on the book, "The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds."

]]> Adam discovers a vulnerability in the new COVID Verify Ontario app that allows an easy way for anyone to see personal information contained in someone's Quebec QR code. Pat challenges the crew with an always-entertaining game of 'Spot The Fake'. Lastly, Darren gives us a quick take on the book, "The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds."

]]> 26:05 false 637 full TRC #636: Generational Labels + China Video Game Ban + Can You Burp & Fart Simultaneously? Generational Labels + China Video Game Ban + Can You Burp & Fart Simultaneously? Fri, 08 Oct 2021 17:10:48 +0000 Adam seems to experience deja vu when covering China's latest attempts to restrict online gaming for minors. In a total cheugy move, Darren looks at the problems with generational labels like Gen Z and why a recent letter sent to Pew Research Center is urging to stop using them. Lastly, Cristina has been sitting on this gassy topic until the crew reunited. Is it physically possible to burp and fart at the same time?

]]> Adam seems to experience deja vu when covering China's latest attempts to restrict online gaming for minors. In a total cheugy move, Darren looks at the problems with generational labels like Gen Z and why a recent letter sent to Pew Research Center is urging to stop using them. Lastly, Cristina has been sitting on this gassy topic until the crew reunited. Is it physically possible to burp and fart at the same time?

]]> 34:35 false 636 full TRC #635: Ear Seeding + The Oldest Profession? Ear Seeding + The Oldest Profession? Mon, 20 Sep 2021 18:18:29 +0000 Cristina gives us an earful about a wellness trend that suggests placing a small seed or bead on the cartilage of your outer ear provides multiple health benefits. Adam looks back in history to corroborate whether sex work really is the so-called 'oldest profession'.

]]> Cristina gives us an earful about a wellness trend that suggests placing a small seed or bead on the cartilage of your outer ear provides multiple health benefits. Adam looks back in history to corroborate whether sex work really is the so-called 'oldest profession'.

]]> 25:34 false 635 full TRC #634: QR Codes Dangerous? + Ads In Your Dreams? QR Codes Dangerous? + Ads In Your Dreams? Tue, 07 Sep 2021 17:27:04 +0000 After a vaccine passport system is launched in his home province of Quebec, Adam investigates whether people's fear that QR code technology is dangerous and could compromise our privacy is justified. Darren looks into the validity behind claims that consumer brands can target ads at your dreams using Targeted Dream Incubation.

]]> After a vaccine passport system is launched in his home province of Quebec, Adam investigates whether people's fear that QR code technology is dangerous and could compromise our privacy is justified. Darren looks into the validity behind claims that consumer brands can target ads at your dreams using Targeted Dream Incubation.

]]> 24:54 false 634 full TRC #633: Country Most Prepared For COVID-19? + What Is A Neutral Zone? + Embr Wave Country Most Prepared For COVID-19? + What Is A Neutral Zone? + Embr Wave Tue, 17 Aug 2021 13:59:34 +0000 Darren does a deep dive into the Global Health Security Index which aims to assess a country's capability to prevent and mitigate epidemics and pandemics. Adam unleashes his inner Trekkie by venturing into the Neutral Zone to discover its meaning and historical origins. After hearing ads for the Embr Wave on other podcasts, Cristina looks behind the wearable device's claims to cool you down or warm you up.

]]> Darren does a deep dive into the Global Health Security Index which aims to assess a country's capability to prevent and mitigate epidemics and pandemics. Adam unleashes his inner Trekkie by venturing into the Neutral Zone to discover its meaning and historical origins. After hearing ads for the Embr Wave on other podcasts, Cristina looks behind the wearable device's claims to cool you down or warm you up.

]]> 27:58 false 633 full TRC #632: Anti-Sex Beds + Hollow Earth? + Youngest Mother Anti-Sex Beds + Hollow Earth? + Youngest Mother Tue, 27 Jul 2021 18:52:05 +0000 Cristina fact checks rumours circulating on social media that anti-sex beds were installed in Tokyo's Olympic Village to deter athletes from hooking up. Adam digs into the plausibility of the Hollow Earth theory after seeing Godzilla vs. Kong. Darren looks into the shocking story behind the youngest person to ever give birth.

]]> Cristina fact checks rumours circulating on social media that anti-sex beds were installed in Tokyo's Olympic Village to deter athletes from hooking up. Adam digs into the plausibility of the Hollow Earth theory after seeing Godzilla vs. Kong. Darren looks into the shocking story behind the youngest person to ever give birth.

]]> 28:00 false 632 full TRC #631: The Top 40 + Subway Tuna Real Tuna? + 'Drug Use For Grown-Ups' By Carl Hart The Top 40 + Subway Tuna Real Tuna? + 'Drug Use For Grown-Ups' By Carl Hart Sat, 17 Jul 2021 17:35:12 +0000 Cristina explores the interesting origin and meaning of the oft-used music industry term Top 40. Adam digs into recent headlines suggesting that Subway restaurant tuna is not what it seems. Darren looks at Dr. Carl L. Hart's book, 'Drug Use For Grown-Ups' which challenges our conventional understanding of drugs and their effects.

]]> Cristina explores the interesting origin and meaning of the oft-used music industry term Top 40. Adam digs into recent headlines suggesting that Subway restaurant tuna is not what it seems. Darren looks at Dr. Carl L. Hart's book, 'Drug Use For Grown-Ups' which challenges our conventional understanding of drugs and their effects.

]]> 27:15 false 631 full TRC #630: Does In-Office Work Increase Innovation? + UAP Task Force Report + Does Bone China Contain Real Bone? Does In-Office Work Increase Innovation? + UAP Task Force Report + Does Bone China Contain Real Bone? Sun, 04 Jul 2021 14:47:21 +0000 Darren takes a skeptical look at the argument that in-office work increases collaboration and innovation. Adam's 'not saying it's aliens', as he takes a closer look at the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force Report. Cristina makes a bone-chilling discovery about china.

]]> Darren takes a skeptical look at the argument that in-office work increases collaboration and innovation. Adam's 'not saying it's aliens', as he takes a closer look at the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force Report. Cristina makes a bone-chilling discovery about china.

]]> 31:32 false 630 full TRC #629: COVID-19 Sniffing Canines + Thought-To-Image Generation + Skin Asphyxiation COVID-19 Sniffing Canines + Thought-To-Image Generation + Skin Asphyxiation Sun, 13 Jun 2021 19:14:54 +0000 Cristina digs into headlines claiming dogs can sniff out coronavirus with impressive accuracy. Darren looks into whether we currently have the technology to generate images just by using our thoughts. After recently watching the classic James Bond flick 'Goldfinger', Adam investigates whether a person can actually die from skin suffocation. 

]]> Cristina digs into headlines claiming dogs can sniff out coronavirus with impressive accuracy. Darren looks into whether we currently have the technology to generate images just by using our thoughts. After recently watching the classic James Bond flick 'Goldfinger', Adam investigates whether a person can actually die from skin suffocation.

]]> 30:09 false 629 full TRC #628: Canine DNA Tests? + Good News 2020: Peace, Safety & Human Rights + Snow White Controversy Canine DNA Tests? + Good News 2020: Peace, Safety & Human Rights + Snow White Controversy Mon, 24 May 2021 16:44:40 +0000 Cristina digs into doggie DNA tests to find out if they live up to the claims and the hype made by direct-to-consumer canine DNA-test companies. Darren highlights some of the positive stuff to come out of 2020 with another instalment of his 'good news' series. This week his focus is peace, safety and human rights. Adam rounds out the show by looking into the recent controversy over Disney's Snow White and Prince Charming's unsolicited kiss.

]]> Cristina digs into doggie DNA tests to find out if they live up to the claims and the hype made by direct-to-consumer canine DNA-test companies. Darren highlights some of the positive stuff to come out of 2020 with another instalment of his 'good news' series. This week his focus is peace, safety and human rights. Adam rounds out the show by looking into the recent controversy over Disney's Snow White and Prince Charming's unsolicited kiss.

]]> 31:55 false 628 full TRC #627: Produce Bags + Science Of Soulmates + Are Turtles Slow? Produce Bags + Science Of Soulmates + Are Turtles Slow? Sat, 08 May 2021 18:16:27 +0000 Adam is perplexed by his recent woes trying to open produce bags and goes looking for answers. Cristina examines the notion of soulmates and whether we can use science to determine how likely we are to meet that 'one' human on Earth we're meant to be with. Finally, Darren challenges the narrative we're taught since childhood that turtles are slow after seeing a video of one ninja-moving turtle.

]]> Adam is perplexed by his recent woes trying to open produce bags and goes looking for answers. Cristina examines the notion of soulmates and whether we can use science to determine how likely we are to meet that 'one' human on Earth we're meant to be with. Finally, Darren challenges the narrative we're taught since childhood that turtles are slow after seeing a video of one ninja-moving turtle.

]]> 27:52 false 627 full TRC #626: A Deep Dive Into 'Just Deserts' By Daniel Dennett & Gregg Caruso A Deep Dive Into 'Just Deserts' By Daniel Dennett & Gregg Caruso Sun, 02 May 2021 14:32:28 +0000 On this week's show, Darren takes a deep dive into a well of ideas discussed in "Just Deserts" by Daniel Dennett and Gregg Caruso. The book features a debate between the two famed philosophers regarding their views on a range of topics like free will, moral responsibility and legal punishment. Darren recorded the segment with Adam and their ensuing conversation was quite interesting, so we decided to release it as a full show.

]]> On this week's show, Darren takes a deep dive into a well of ideas discussed in "Just Deserts" by Daniel Dennett and Gregg Caruso. The book features a debate between the two famed philosophers regarding their views on a range of topics like free will, moral responsibility and legal punishment. Darren recorded the segment with Adam and their ensuing conversation was quite interesting, so we decided to release it as a full show.

]]> 27:24 false 626 full TRC #625: Good News 2020: Global Health + Dogs Communicating With Buttons? Good News 2020: Global Health + Dogs Communicating With Buttons? Sat, 24 Apr 2021 18:18:04 +0000 The year 2020 was a dumpster fire, right?  Darren gives us another instalment of his good news stories from the year, this time discussing global health. Adam does a deep dive into viral videos claiming to show dogs communicating using soundboards.

]]> The year 2020 was a dumpster fire, right? Darren gives us another instalment of his good news stories from the year, this time discussing global health. Adam does a deep dive into viral videos claiming to show dogs communicating using soundboards.

]]> 32:08 false 625 full TRC #624: COVID Vaccine Risk & Critical Thinking + Mary Kay Pink Cadillac + What Does The Fox Say? COVID Vaccine Risk & Critical Thinking + Mary Kay Pink Cadillac + What Does The Fox Say? Sun, 18 Apr 2021 20:46:07 +0000 Darren kicks off the show with an important segment that examines the benefit of getting the COVID vaccine versus any potential risks, using critical thinking. Cristina takes a ride down the MLM highway and explores Truth In Advertising's recent scrutiny of Mary Kay's deceptive pinky promises. Finally, Adam really does a deep dive to find out, what does the fox say?

]]> Darren kicks off the show with an important segment that examines the benefit of getting the COVID vaccine versus any potential risks, using critical thinking. Cristina takes a ride down the MLM highway and explores Truth In Advertising's recent scrutiny of Mary Kay's deceptive pinky promises. Finally, Adam really does a deep dive to find out, what does the fox say?

]]> 36:31 false 624 full TRC #623: The Neuroscience Of Addiction with Dr. Kim Hellemans The Neuroscience Of Addiction with Dr. Kim Hellemans Sat, 10 Apr 2021 14:40:55 +0000 This week we bring you a fascinating interview with Dr. Kim Hellemans about the neuroscience of addiction which originally aired in 2019. Kim is an award-winning neuroscientist and the chair of the department of neuroscience at Carleton University. She is also a co-host of Minding The Brain podcast. Enjoy!

]]> This week we bring you a fascinating interview with Dr. Kim Hellemans about the neuroscience of addiction which originally aired in 2019. Kim is an award-winning neuroscientist and the chair of the department of neuroscience at Carleton University. She is also a co-host of Minding The Brain podcast. Enjoy!

]]> 39:01 false 623 full TRC #622: Suez Canal Conspiracies + Are Maps Racist? + 2020 Book Picks Suez Canal Conspiracies + Are Maps Racist? + 2020 Book Picks Sun, 28 Mar 2021 15:12:01 +0000 Cristina kicks off the show by diving hip deep into the conspiracy theories swirling around why the massive container ship Ever Given is blocking the Suez Canal. Adam ponders whether maps are racist after seeing an angry online commenter suggest as much when replying to a post featuring a world map. Darren really did read or listen to more than 100 books last year and he's here to tell you which titles he thinks are worth your while.

]]> Cristina kicks off the show by diving hip deep into the conspiracy theories swirling around why the massive container ship Ever Given is blocking the Suez Canal. Adam ponders whether maps are racist after seeing an angry online commenter suggest as much when replying to a post featuring a world map. Darren really did read or listen to more than 100 books last year and he's here to tell you which titles he thinks are worth your while.

]]> 32:17 false 622 full TRC #621: Subtitles and Reading Skills + Biased Algorithms? Subtitles and Reading Skills + Biased Algorithms? Sat, 13 Mar 2021 19:23:12 +0000 After seeing a viral video featuring Stephen Fry, Cristina examines the practice of turning on same-language subtitling and its surprising effect on reading skills, particularly in children. Adam looks at examples of recent cases where Google and Twitter algorithms are being accused of bias.

]]> After seeing a viral video featuring Stephen Fry, Cristina examines the practice of turning on same-language subtitling and its surprising effect on reading skills, particularly in children. Adam looks at examples of recent cases where Google and Twitter algorithms are being accused of bias.

]]> 28:25 false 621 full TRC #620: Does COVID-19 Kill More Men? + Potatoes and Gender? Does COVID-19 Kill More Men? + Potatoes and Gender? Sat, 06 Mar 2021 17:34:27 +0000 Darren looks into whether COVID-19 kills more men than women after a friend shares an article suggesting women are more adversely affected by the pandemic. When toy maker Hasbro announced they are rebranding Mr. Potato Head with a gender-neutral name, Adam ponders, how do potatoes actually reproduce?

]]> Darren looks into whether COVID-19 kills more men than women after a friend shares an article suggesting women are more adversely affected by the pandemic. When toy maker Hasbro announced they are rebranding Mr. Potato Head with a gender-neutral name, Adam ponders, how do potatoes actually reproduce?

]]> 27:51 false 620 full TRC #619: Hands at 10 and 2? + Anti-Asian Hate Crime Stats + Planetary Nomenclature Hands at 10 and 2? + Anti-Asian Hate Crime Stats + Planetary Nomenclature Sat, 27 Feb 2021 15:46:56 +0000 The mantra when Pat was learning to drive was 'hands at 10 and 2 o'clock' when gripping the steering wheel. Turns out, all of us Gen X'ers may need a driver refresher course. Adam does a deep dive into recent headlines citing a huge increase in anti-Asian hate crimes in North America. Our favourite planetary scientist, Dr. Stuart Robbins, tells us about the fascinating rules around naming stuff in space.

]]> The mantra when Pat was learning to drive was 'hands at 10 and 2 o'clock' when gripping the steering wheel. Turns out, all of us Gen X'ers may need a driver refresher course. Adam does a deep dive into recent headlines citing a huge increase in anti-Asian hate crimes in North America. Our favourite planetary scientist, Dr. Stuart Robbins, tells us about the fascinating rules around naming stuff in space.

]]> 28:38 false 619 full TRC #618: McDonald's Eggs Frozen? + Good News in 2020: Conservation + Doublet Craters w/Dr. Stuart Robbins McDonald's Eggs Frozen? + Good News in 2020: Conservation + Doublet Craters w/Dr. Stuart Robbins Sun, 21 Feb 2021 03:30:36 +0000 Cristina's back this week asking the important questions...are McDonald's eggs frozen? If you're still reeling from the gut punch that was 2020, Darren brings us a delightful segment on "Good News in 2020' you probably missed, Conservation edition. Our pal, planetary scientist Dr. Stu, fills us in on the work he is doing related to doublet craters formed by binary asteroids and why it's important.

]]> Cristina's back this week asking the important questions...are McDonald's eggs frozen? If you're still reeling from the gut punch that was 2020, Darren brings us a delightful segment on "Good News in 2020' you probably missed, Conservation edition. Our pal, planetary scientist Dr. Stu, fills us in on the work he is doing related to doublet craters formed by binary asteroids and why it's important.

]]> 25:30 false 618 full TRC #617: Vaccines and the Post Hoc Fallacy + Monoliths Vaccines and the Post Hoc Fallacy + Monoliths Sat, 13 Feb 2021 16:09:26 +0000 Adam and Darren are reunited and happily hijack this week's show. Darren breaks down the post hoc fallacy, aka 'after this, therefore because of this', and examines it in the context of COVID vaccines. Adam goes deep on the mysterious so-called monoliths making headlines over the last year, giving new meaning to the saying, 'What's up, Cuboids?'

]]> Adam and Darren are reunited and happily hijack this week's show. Darren breaks down the post hoc fallacy, aka 'after this, therefore because of this', and examines it in the context of COVID vaccines. Adam goes deep on the mysterious so-called monoliths making headlines over the last year, giving new meaning to the saying, 'What's up, Cuboids?'

]]> 25:13 false 617 full TRC #616: The Annual Prediction Show The Annual Prediction Show Sat, 06 Feb 2021 21:18:24 +0000 In what has become a yearly ritual to highlight the futility of 'predictions', Adam, Producer Pat, and Cristina guess at what might happen in 2021 and revisit the panel's 2020 predictions to see how we did. Spoiler: no one had 'pandemic' on their list.

]]> In what has become a yearly ritual to highlight the futility of 'predictions', Adam, Producer Pat, and Cristina guess at what might happen in 2021 and revisit the panel's 2020 predictions to see how we did. Spoiler: no one had 'pandemic' on their list.

]]> 28:44 false 616 full TRC #615: Live Your Best Life with Dr. Stuart Farrimond Live Your Best Life with Dr. Stuart Farrimond Sun, 24 Jan 2021 18:37:07 +0000 Aaand...we're back! This week we dedicate an entire show to chat with our good mate and frequent guest, Dr. Stuart Farrimond, medical doctor turned science communicator and food scientist. Stu joins Pat and Cristina to chat about his latest, and top-selling book, "Live Your Best Life: 219 science-based reasons to rethink your daily routine," (or "The Science Of Living" if you live outside of North America).

]]> Aaand...we're back! This week we dedicate an entire show to chat with our good mate and frequent guest, Dr. Stuart Farrimond, medical doctor turned science communicator and food scientist. Stu joins Pat and Cristina to chat about his latest, and top-selling book, "Live Your Best Life: 219 science-based reasons to rethink your daily routine," (or "The Science Of Living" if you live outside of North America).

]]> 57:13 false 615 full TRC #614: Why 2 High Tides? + Dangers Of Double Male End Plugs + Life On Venus Update Why 2 High Tides? + Dangers Of Double Male End Plugs + Life On Venus Update Sun, 20 Dec 2020 20:48:47 +0000 Planetary scientist and Hall of Famer guest Dr. Stuart Robbins joins Pat and Cristina to respond to a listener who asks why the Earth experiences two high tides instead of just one. Adam brings us a PSA on the dangers of double male end adapters, known as 'suicide cords'. Dr. Stu rounds out the show with a follow-up to Adam's 'Life On Venus?' segment from September by addressing the accuracy of a recent study published by astronomers claiming phosphine - a potential marker of life - was discovered in Venus' atmosphere.

]]> Planetary scientist and Hall of Famer guest Dr. Stuart Robbins joins Pat and Cristina to respond to a listener who asks why the Earth experiences two high tides instead of just one. Adam brings us a PSA on the dangers of double male end adapters, known as 'suicide cords'. Dr. Stu rounds out the show with a follow-up to Adam's 'Life On Venus?' segment from September by addressing the accuracy of a recent study published by astronomers claiming phosphine - a potential marker of life - was discovered in Venus' atmosphere.

]]> 30:17 false 614 full TRC #613: Brussel Sprouts + 12 Days Of Christmas Christian Code? + Books, Books, Books! Brussel Sprouts + 12 Days Of Christmas Christian Code? + Books, Books, Books! Sat, 12 Dec 2020 20:40:30 +0000 Adam wonders if brussel sprouts deserve their bad rap for tasting horrible and makes an interesting discovery in the process. Cristina looks into whether the song '12 Days Of Christmas' is coded so persecuted Christians could pass down the tenets of their faith under the radar. Lastly, Darren brings us a roundup of recent additions to his book shelf: "The Ethics of Influence", "The Science of Evil", "The Quest for Cosmic Justice", "What Algorithms Want" and "Is This Anything?" 

]]> Adam wonders if brussel sprouts deserve their bad rap for tasting horrible and makes an interesting discovery in the process. Cristina looks into whether the song '12 Days Of Christmas' is coded so persecuted Christians could pass down the tenets of their faith under the radar. Lastly, Darren brings us a roundup of recent additions to his book shelf: "The Ethics of Influence", "The Science of Evil", "The Quest for Cosmic Justice", "What Algorithms Want" and "Is This Anything?"

]]> 24:39 false 613 full TRC #612: 'The Village Effect' + Is There A Loneliness Epidemic? 'The Village Effect' + Is There A Loneliness Epidemic? Sat, 05 Dec 2020 21:29:41 +0000 Adam discusses themes from 'The Village Effect' by author and psychologist Susan Pinker who posits that face-to-face contact is crucial for learning, happiness, resilience and longevity. In a related segment, Darren looks at data to determine if there is evidence to support reports that we're currently experiencing a loneliness epidemic.

]]> Adam discusses themes from 'The Village Effect' by author and psychologist Susan Pinker who posits that face-to-face contact is crucial for learning, happiness, resilience and longevity. In a related segment, Darren looks at data to determine if there is evidence to support reports that we're currently experiencing a loneliness epidemic.

]]> 36:06 false 612 full TRC #611: Why Are Albums So Long Now? + Antarctica Pyramids? + Donating Effectively Why Are Albums So Long Now? + Antarctica Pyramids? + Donating Effectively Sun, 29 Nov 2020 20:28:29 +0000 Cristina kicks off the show with a look into why so many music albums run much longer than back in the day. Adam explores whether enormous pyramids were discovered in Antarctica. Lastly, we rerun a segment from Darren with tips on donating to charities effectively, ahead of Giving Tuesday on December 1st.

]]> Cristina kicks off the show with a look into why so many music albums run much longer than back in the day. Adam explores whether enormous pyramids were discovered in Antarctica. Lastly, we rerun a segment from Darren with tips on donating to charities effectively, ahead of Giving Tuesday on December 1st.

]]> 35:36 false 611 full TRC #610: Who 'Caused' Biden to Win? + Rules Around Naming Babies Worldwide Who 'Caused' Biden to Win? + Rules Around Naming Babies Worldwide Sat, 21 Nov 2020 17:05:02 +0000 Darren kicks off the show by exploring how to talk and think about causality for something as complicated as 2020's U.S. election. Next, Cristina takes a fascinating look into the rules around naming babies worldwide and what can happen if parents don't give their baby a name.

]]> Darren kicks off the show by exploring how to talk and think about causality for something as complicated as 2020's U.S. election. Next, Cristina takes a fascinating look into the rules around naming babies worldwide and what can happen if parents don't give their baby a name.

]]> 26:31 false 610 full TRC #609: COVID-19 Testing in Canada + 2000 Year Old Cat Carving in Peru? + Coke in Coke? COVID-19 Testing in Canada + 2000 Year Old Cat Carving in Peru? + Coke in Coke? Sun, 08 Nov 2020 18:33:52 +0000 Cristina kicks off the show with an overview of how the Public Health Agency of Canada's National Microbiology Laboratory tests for COVID-19. After archeologists discover a 2000 year old feline geoglyph carved into the hillside in Nazca Lines, Peru, Adam asks, "Is it really a cat?" Darren rounds out the show with a look at Coca-Cola and whether long-time reports of the beverage containing cocaine hold up.

]]> Cristina kicks off the show with an overview of how the Public Health Agency of Canada's National Microbiology Laboratory tests for COVID-19. After archeologists discover a 2000 year old feline geoglyph carved into the hillside in Nazca Lines, Peru, Adam asks, "Is it really a cat?" Darren rounds out the show with a look at Coca-Cola and whether long-time reports of the beverage containing cocaine hold up.

]]> 26:56 false 609 full TRC #608: Is 'Sexual Preference' Offensive? + Book Reviews: Woodward; Cohen; Alinsky; Chomsky Is 'Sexual Preference' Offensive? + Book Reviews: Woodward; Cohen; Alinsky; Chomsky Sat, 31 Oct 2020 18:54:54 +0000 After negative reaction and backlash to Amy Coney Barrett using the term, Adam digs into whether 'sexual preference' is offensive. Next, Darren brings us another book review roundup including some titles that recently spawned several headlines: 'Rage' by Bob Woodward, 'Disloyal' by Michael Cohen, 'Rules for Radicals' by Saul Alinsky and 'What We Say Goes' by Noam Chomsky.

]]> After negative reaction and backlash to Amy Coney Barrett using the term, Adam digs into whether 'sexual preference' is offensive. Next, Darren brings us another book review roundup including some titles that recently spawned several headlines: 'Rage' by Bob Woodward, 'Disloyal' by Michael Cohen, 'Rules for Radicals' by Saul Alinsky and 'What We Say Goes' by Noam Chomsky.

]]> 31:46 false 608 full TRC #607: Trust U.S. Election Polls? + What Is The Red Pill + Skill Testing Questions Trust U.S. Election Polls? + What Is The Red Pill + Skill Testing Questions Mon, 26 Oct 2020 17:58:21 +0000 With the U.S. election on the horizon, can we really trust the election polls? Darren does a deep dive to find out. Next, Adam wonders what it means to 'take the red pill' after seeing a tweet by Elon Musk. Lastly, after Producer Pat wins a Raptors jersey in a scratch-and-win contest, Cristina ponders why he has to answer a skill-testing question before claiming the prize. 

]]> With the U.S. election on the horizon, can we really trust the election polls? Darren does a deep dive to find out. Next, Adam wonders what it means to 'take the red pill' after seeing a tweet by Elon Musk. Lastly, after Producer Pat wins a Raptors jersey in a scratch-and-win contest, Cristina ponders why he has to answer a skill-testing question before claiming the prize.

]]> 33:37 false 607 full TRC #606: James Randi James Randi Thu, 22 Oct 2020 18:18:13 +0000 Yesterday we lost a giant in the critical thinking community. James Randi died at the age of 92. This is an interview with him from August 2010. Randi began his career as a magician and later devoted his life to investigating paranormal, occult and supernatural claims. He will be missed.

]]> Yesterday we lost a giant in the critical thinking community. James Randi died at the age of 92. This is an interview with him from August 2010. Randi began his career as a magician and later devoted his life to investigating paranormal, occult and supernatural claims. He will be missed.

]]> 19:08 false 606 full TRC #605: Calculating The Mass Of Earth + Subway Bread Isn't Bread? Calculating The Mass Of Earth + Subway Bread Isn't Bread? Fri, 09 Oct 2020 16:51:04 +0000 This week we bring you two fascinating segments. First our resident planetary geophysics expert, Dr. Stuart Robbins, is back to help us with a listener email about how we calculate the mass of the earth. We also dig into the difference between weight and mass. Adam rounds out the show with a deep dive into whether an Irish court has ruled that Subway bread is not bread asking, 'what is a sandwich anyways'?

]]> This week we bring you two fascinating segments. First our resident planetary geophysics expert, Dr. Stuart Robbins, is back to help us with a listener email about how we calculate the mass of the earth. We also dig into the difference between weight and mass. Adam rounds out the show with a deep dive into whether an Irish court has ruled that Subway bread is not bread asking, 'what is a sandwich anyways'?

]]> 26:16 false 605 full TRC #604: The 'Benadryl Challenge' + The Moon's Luminosity The 'Benadryl Challenge' + The Moon's Luminosity Sat, 03 Oct 2020 14:16:52 +0000 This week, we bring in the experts to bring YOU two great interviews! First, Cristina looks at the controversial 'Benadryl challenge' on TikTok and has a discussion with Dr. David Stukus about the potential danger of this over-the-counter medication. Dr. Stukus is a Paediatric allergy & asthma specialist and the Social Media Medical Editor for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Next, our resident research scientist who studies planetary geophysics, Dr. Stuart Robbins, tells us some surprising information about the luminosity of the moon.

]]> This week, we bring in the experts to bring YOU two great interviews! First, Cristina looks at the controversial 'Benadryl challenge' on TikTok and has a discussion with Dr. David Stukus about the potential danger of this over-the-counter medication. Dr. Stukus is a Paediatric allergy & asthma specialist and the Social Media Medical Editor for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Next, our resident research scientist who studies planetary geophysics, Dr. Stuart Robbins, tells us some surprising information about the luminosity of the moon.

]]> 28:32 false 604 full TRC #603: Call To Cancel Netflix Over 'Cuties' + Is Jeff Bezos Too Rich? Call To Cancel Netflix Over 'Cuties' + Is Jeff Bezos Too Rich? Fri, 25 Sep 2020 16:49:51 +0000 After the huge backlash around the recent release of coming-of-age drama 'Cuties' on Netflix, Pat examines what this film is about. Darren rounds out the show with a deep dive on Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' staggering wealth and wonders: is he too rich?

]]> After the huge backlash around the recent release of coming-of-age drama 'Cuties' on Netflix, Pat examines what this film is about. Darren rounds out the show with a deep dive on Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' staggering wealth and wonders: is he too rich?

]]> 27:03 false 603 full TRC #602: Life On Venus? + David Bowie Art Hoax? + Book Reviews: Evolution, Oculus, and Google Life On Venus? + David Bowie Art Hoax? + Book Reviews: Evolution, Oculus, and Google Sat, 19 Sep 2020 14:27:36 +0000 Adam looks behind the latest headlines that suggest we may have discovered life on the planet Venus. Cristina takes us down a fun rabbit hole when she explores how David Bowie pulled off one of the biggest art hoaxes in history. Finally, Darren crushes three book reviews spanning wildly different, equally fascinating topics: 'From Darwin to Derrida', 'The History of the Future: Oculus, Facebook, and the Revolution That Swept Virtual Reality', and 'Life After Google'.

]]> Adam looks behind the latest headlines that suggest we may have discovered life on the planet Venus. Cristina takes us down a fun rabbit hole when she explores how David Bowie pulled off one of the biggest art hoaxes in history. Finally, Darren crushes three book reviews spanning wildly different, equally fascinating topics: 'From Darwin to Derrida', 'The History of the Future: Oculus, Facebook, and the Revolution That Swept Virtual Reality', and 'Life After Google'.

]]> 33:24 false 602 full TRC #601: Essential Oils Safe For Kids? + Colour In Hubble Photos + Can Former Presidents Drive? Essential Oils Safe For Kids? + Colour In Hubble Photos + Can Former Presidents Drive? Sat, 12 Sep 2020 14:08:20 +0000 Cristina looks into the safety of so-called 'essential' oils when it comes to use around children. Friend of the show, Dr. Stuart Robbins, answers a question about why those picturesque astronomy photos of galaxies far, far away are so colourful. Finally, Darren asks if former United States Presidents are actually allowed to drive.

]]> Cristina looks into the safety of so-called 'essential' oils when it comes to use around children. Friend of the show, Dr. Stuart Robbins, answers a question about why those picturesque astronomy photos of galaxies far, far away are so colourful. Finally, Darren asks if former United States Presidents are actually allowed to drive.

]]> 28:52 false 601 full TRC #600: Does Cancel Culture Exist? + Name That: Memory + Seeds From China Does Cancel Culture Exist? + Name That: Memory + Seeds From China Sat, 05 Sep 2020 19:33:57 +0000 Guess who's back? The crew is back together again for TRC's 600th episode! Darren asks if 'cancel culture' really exists. Producer Pat tests the gang's memories with a game of 'Name That: Previous Game' edition. Adam looks into mystery packets of seeds that people worldwide are randomly receiving in the mail.

]]> Guess who's back? The crew is back together again for TRC's 600th episode! Darren asks if 'cancel culture' really exists. Producer Pat tests the gang's memories with a game of 'Name That: Previous Game' edition. Adam looks into mystery packets of seeds that people worldwide are randomly receiving in the mail.

]]> 35:51 false 600 full TRC #599: Trust Online Reviews? + USPS Conspiracy? + Checkout Donations Trust Online Reviews? + USPS Conspiracy? + Checkout Donations Sat, 22 Aug 2020 18:33:36 +0000 Cristina looks into online shopping and asks how useful are online reviews really? Adam takes an objective look at the recent alarming USPS news, and whether there is evidence that Donald Trump is sabotaging the US Postal Service to steal the election. Finally, Darren gives us some food for thought when looking behind those donations we get asked for at the checkout register. 

]]> Cristina looks into online shopping and asks how useful are online reviews really? Adam takes an objective look at the recent alarming USPS news, and whether there is evidence that Donald Trump is sabotaging the US Postal Service to steal the election. Finally, Darren gives us some food for thought when looking behind those donations we get asked for at the checkout register.

]]> 28:25 false 599 full TRC #598: Does Anonymous Hiring Work? + What Happens To Plastic Bottles? Does Anonymous Hiring Work? + What Happens To Plastic Bottles? Sun, 16 Aug 2020 17:20:47 +0000 Darren looks into anonymous hiring and whether it helps reduce discrimination after a recent article argued that auditions for violinists should no longer be anonymized. Cristina takes a deep dive into what happens to plastic drink bottles that you toss in your recycling bin.

]]> Darren looks into anonymous hiring and whether it helps reduce discrimination after a recent article argued that auditions for violinists should no longer be anonymized. Cristina takes a deep dive into what happens to plastic drink bottles that you toss in your recycling bin.

]]> 26:50 false 598 full TRC #597: Cans and Coins During The Pandemic + Talking Craters With Dr. Stuart Robbins Cans and Coins During The Pandemic + Talking Craters With Dr. Stuart Robbins Fri, 07 Aug 2020 18:52:55 +0000 Adam kicks off the show by looking into whether people's changing habits during COVID-19 is causing shortages of aluminum cans and coins. We round out the show with our good friend Dr. Stuart Robbins, who is a research scientist that studies planetary geophysics. He chats about the importance of studying impact craters. 

]]> Adam kicks off the show by looking into whether people's changing habits during COVID-19 is causing shortages of aluminum cans and coins. We round out the show with our good friend Dr. Stuart Robbins, who is a research scientist that studies planetary geophysics. He chats about the importance of studying impact craters.

]]> 25:39 false 597 full TRC #596.5: Voluntourism TRC #596.5: Voluntourism Sat, 01 Aug 2020 20:17:34 +0000 With the recent spotlight on the WE Charity, we revisit a segment Darren originally covered in 2015 which explores the very disturbing downside of well-intentioned Voluntourism.

]]> With the recent spotlight on the WE Charity, we revisit a segment Darren originally covered in 2015 which explores the very disturbing downside of well-intentioned Voluntourism.

]]> 16:08 false full TRC #596: Bricks For Protesters? + Pre COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories + Closest Galaxy Bricks For Protesters? + Pre COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories + Closest Galaxy Wed, 29 Jul 2020 14:43:54 +0000 Darren looks into headlines suggesting that bricks were being left for protesters to incite violence. Cristina gives us a history lesson on conspiracy theories related to plagues and pandemics. Adam addresses some feedback he received on a recent segment and takes us on a tour to find the closest galaxy.

]]> Darren looks into headlines suggesting that bricks were being left for protesters to incite violence. Cristina gives us a history lesson on conspiracy theories related to plagues and pandemics. Adam addresses some feedback he received on a recent segment and takes us on a tour to find the closest galaxy.

]]> 23:59 false 596 full TRC #595: Can The Oura Ring Detect COVID-19? + LSA vs Steven Pinker Can The Oura Ring Detect COVID-19? + LSA vs Steven Pinker Sat, 18 Jul 2020 19:53:07 +0000 Cristina dunks into a segment about the NBA and how it's hoping to protect its players with wearable technology as the league resumes the season in a Disneyworld-based bubble. Does the Oura smart ring really live up to the hype it can predict COVID-19 symptoms early? Darren provides important background and context after an open letter from the Linguistic Society of America calls for the removal of Dr. Steven Pinker.

]]> Cristina dunks into a segment about the NBA and how it's hoping to protect its players with wearable technology as the league resumes the season in a Disneyworld-based bubble. Does the Oura smart ring really live up to the hype it can predict COVID-19 symptoms early? Darren provides important background and context after an open letter from the Linguistic Society of America calls for the removal of Dr. Steven Pinker.

]]> 26:29 false 595 full TRC #594: Mashup Mania: Best Of 'Name That, Spot The Fake Fact' Mashup Mania: Best Of 'Name That, Spot The Fake Fact' Sat, 11 Jul 2020 19:33:19 +0000 Producer Pat brings us a marathon of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game: 'Name That, Spot The Fake.' Laughs abound when Darren, Adam, Cristina, and special guest Dr. Stuart Farrimond are presented with four interesting, yet outrageous-sounding facts and asked to spot the fake. Play along to see if you can do better than the Reality Check crew!

]]> Producer Pat brings us a marathon of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game: 'Name That, Spot The Fake.' Laughs abound when Darren, Adam, Cristina, and special guest Dr. Stuart Farrimond are presented with four interesting, yet outrageous-sounding facts and asked to spot the fake. Play along to see if you can do better than the Reality Check crew!

]]> 37:11 false 594 full TRC #593: 36 Alien Civilizations In Our Galaxy? + Modern Slavery 36 Alien Civilizations In Our Galaxy? + Modern Slavery Sat, 04 Jul 2020 18:52:15 +0000 Adam goes behind the viral headlines to find out if there really are 36 alien civilizations in our galaxy and gives us a refresher on the Drake Equation in the process. Then, Darren talks to us about what modern slavery is, how many are enslaved, where slavery occurs, and what you can do about it.

]]> Adam goes behind the viral headlines to find out if there really are 36 alien civilizations in our galaxy and gives us a refresher on the Drake Equation in the process. Then, Darren talks to us about what modern slavery is, how many are enslaved, where slavery occurs, and what you can do about it.

]]> 26:31 false 593 full TRC #592: Trump COVID-19 Coins? + Flushable Wipes + SpongeBob Gay? + Life In North Korea Trump COVID-19 Coins? + Flushable Wipes + SpongeBob Gay? + Life In North Korea Sun, 28 Jun 2020 15:18:25 +0000 Pat asks whether the White House gift shop is really selling COVID-19 commemorative coins. Cristina investigates whether flushable wipes are truly flushable as claimed. Adam dives into Bikini Bottom to see if he can answer a lingering fan question...is SpongeBob SquarePants gay? Darren rounds out the show with an overview of 'North Korea Confidential' and a look at life in North Korea.

]]> Pat asks whether the White House gift shop is really selling COVID-19 commemorative coins. Cristina investigates whether flushable wipes are truly flushable as claimed. Adam dives into Bikini Bottom to see if he can answer a lingering fan question...is SpongeBob SquarePants gay? Darren rounds out the show with an overview of 'North Korea Confidential' and a look at life in North Korea.

]]> 27:03 false 592 full TRC #591: COVID-19 Temperature Checks? + Evidence & Context + Mayans Doomsday Prediction 2020 Edition COVID-19 Temperature Checks? + Evidence & Context + Mayans Doomsday Prediction 2020 Edition Sun, 21 Jun 2020 18:22:42 +0000 As pandemic restrictions begin to ease around the world, Cristina investigates whether taking temperature checks at retail stores or workplaces gives us a false sense of security or if monitoring temperatures actually helps curb the spread of COVID-19. Darren builds on his segment from last week's show on how to talk about talking about difficult topics, with a look at complications with concepts of evidence and context. Adam revisits Mayan doomsday prophecies after a few articles circulating the internet suggest the 'math was wrong' and the end of the world is really today, June 21, 2020.

]]> As pandemic restrictions begin to ease around the world, Cristina investigates whether taking temperature checks at retail stores or workplaces gives us a false sense of security or if monitoring temperatures actually helps curb the spread of COVID-19. Darren builds on his segment from last week's show on how to talk about talking about difficult topics, with a look at complications with concepts of evidence and context. Adam revisits Mayan doomsday prophecies after a few articles circulating the internet suggest the 'math was wrong' and the end of the world is really today, June 21, 2020.

]]> 32:36 false 591 full TRC #590: Talking About Race, Police, Anything? + Yellowstone Eruption Overdue? + Is Luke Skywalker Human? Talking About Race, Police, Anything? + Yellowstone Eruption Overdue? + Is Luke Skywalker Human? Tue, 09 Jun 2020 15:59:42 +0000 Darren explores how we might communicate about different and difficult subjects including race and policing, and things to keep in mind when doing so. Pat looks into suggestions that the supervolcano in Yellowstone National Park is overdue for an eruption any day. Adam asks whether Luke Skywalker and Han Solo are actually human. 

]]> Darren explores how we might communicate about different and difficult subjects including race and policing, and things to keep in mind when doing so. Pat looks into suggestions that the supervolcano in Yellowstone National Park is overdue for an eruption any day. Adam asks whether Luke Skywalker and Han Solo are actually human.

]]> 30:39 false 590 full TRC #589: Copper Face Masks Better? + Is Bill Gates Evil? + Do Anime Characters Look White? Copper Face Masks Better? + Is Bill Gates Evil? + Do Anime Characters Look White? Sat, 30 May 2020 18:56:16 +0000 Cristina looks into whether the new trend of copper face masks live up to their antiviral hype. Darren gives us a comprehensive breakdown of the many claims and conspiracy theories swirling around Bill Gates. Finally, Anime fan Adam finds a great way to sneak in his love of Sailor Moon when looking to answer a popular question he's heard over the years, 'why do anime characters look white?'

]]> Cristina looks into whether the new trend of copper face masks live up to their antiviral hype. Darren gives us a comprehensive breakdown of the many claims and conspiracy theories swirling around Bill Gates. Finally, Anime fan Adam finds a great way to sneak in his love of Sailor Moon when looking to answer a popular question he's heard over the years, 'why do anime characters look white?'

]]> 33:27 false 589 full TRC #588: Evidence Of A Parallel Universe? + Cruise Industry Booming? Evidence Of A Parallel Universe? + Cruise Industry Booming? Sun, 24 May 2020 18:48:29 +0000 This week we bring you two great segments about recent news stories. First we are joined by our 5th Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins, who helps us to look into recent reports that NASA has discovered a parallel universe where time runs backwards. Next, Adam examines headlines suggesting that, despite coronavirus fears, cruise ship bookings are way up.

]]> This week we bring you two great segments about recent news stories. First we are joined by our 5th Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins, who helps us to look into recent reports that NASA has discovered a parallel universe where time runs backwards. Next, Adam examines headlines suggesting that, despite coronavirus fears, cruise ship bookings are way up.

]]> 31:40 false 588 full TRC #587: Is Beta Male Body Language A Thing? + The Perfect Weapon + McMindfulness Is Beta Male Body Language A Thing? + The Perfect Weapon + McMindfulness Sun, 17 May 2020 17:01:13 +0000 Adam looks into body language after a twitter user's viral claim that The Mountain from Game of Thrones is revealing "Beta Male" behaviour in a photo. Darren dives into the world of Cyber War with a great overview of The Perfect Weapon by David Sanger, and how the rise of cyberweapons transformed geopolitics. He also looks at Ronald Purser's McMindfulness, a razor-sharp critique of the mindfulness movement. Stay safe!

]]> Adam looks into body language after a twitter user's viral claim that The Mountain from Game of Thrones is revealing "Beta Male" behaviour in a photo. Darren dives into the world of Cyber War with a great overview of The Perfect Weapon by David Sanger, and how the rise of cyberweapons transformed geopolitics. He also looks at Ronald Purser's McMindfulness, a razor-sharp critique of the mindfulness movement. Stay safe!

]]> 30:40 false 587 full TRC #586: Effective Giving During COVID-19 + Does Your Stomach Shrink? + Cats And COVID-19 Effective Giving During COVID-19 + Does Your Stomach Shrink? + Cats And COVID-19 Mon, 04 May 2020 14:50:22 +0000 Darren takes on listeners' requests to do a segment on giving during a pandemic like COVID-19. Cristina looks behind an age old notion to find out whether our stomachs really 'shrink' when we diet. Adam rounds out the show by dissecting reports of cats catching the Coronavirus.

]]> Darren takes on listeners' requests to do a segment on giving during a pandemic like COVID-19. Cristina looks behind an age old notion to find out whether our stomachs really 'shrink' when we diet. Adam rounds out the show by dissecting reports of cats catching the Coronavirus.

]]> 23:23 false 586 full TRC #585: Talking Food and Space with Drs. Robbins and Farrimond Talking Food and Space with Drs. Robbins and Farrimond Fri, 24 Apr 2020 14:34:36 +0000 What would happen if the moon was made of cheese? Could you pop popcorn in space? We mastered the time zones and finally got our favourite two Stus together for a fun and informative show! Dr. Stuart Robbins is a research scientist who studies planetary geophysics and Dr. Stuart Farrimond is a medical doctor turned science communicator and expert on food science. We talk about food, we talk about space, and we talk about food in space.

]]> What would happen if the moon was made of cheese? Could you pop popcorn in space? We mastered the time zones and finally got our favourite two Stus together for a fun and informative show! Dr. Stuart Robbins is a research scientist who studies planetary geophysics and Dr. Stuart Farrimond is a medical doctor turned science communicator and expert on food science. We talk about food, we talk about space, and we talk about food in space.

]]> 54:42 false 585 full TRC #584: Why Didn't We Quarantine Pre-COVID-19? + How Is Your Phone Tracked? + Overview Of The Precipice By Toby Ord Why Didn't We Quarantine Pre-COVID-19? + How Is Your Phone Tracked? + Overview Of The Precipice By Toby Ord Sun, 19 Apr 2020 21:21:45 +0000 Cristina examines why we didn't need to quarantine during previous outbreaks like SARS or the Swine Flu like we do with COVID-19. Adam answers a question on many people's minds right now...how is your phone being tracked? Does Sarah Connor's idea of putting a phone in a bag of chips to protect her from being tracked in The Terminator work? Finally, Darren tells us why we should all read Toby Ord's, "The Precipice: Existential Risk and the Future of Humanity" right now.

]]> Cristina examines why we didn't need to quarantine during previous outbreaks like SARS or the Swine Flu like we do with COVID-19. Adam answers a question on many people's minds right now...how is your phone being tracked? Does Sarah Connor's idea of putting a phone in a bag of chips to protect her from being tracked in The Terminator work? Finally, Darren tells us why we should all read Toby Ord's, "The Precipice: Existential Risk and the Future of Humanity" right now.

]]> 24:57 false 584 full TRC #583: Planning A Mission To Pluto With Dr. Stuart Robbins Planning A Mission To Pluto With Dr. Stuart Robbins Fri, 10 Apr 2020 18:07:11 +0000 Let's take a break from COVID-19 and talk about space! This week we bring you a great interview with friend-of-the-show and our 5th Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins. Stuart is a research scientist who studies planetary geophysics and is part of a team looking into the feasibility and cost of a future Pluto orbiter mission.  

]]> Let's take a break from COVID-19 and talk about space! This week we bring you a great interview with friend-of-the-show and our 5th Beatle, Dr. Stuart Robbins. Stuart is a research scientist who studies planetary geophysics and is part of a team looking into the feasibility and cost of a future Pluto orbiter mission.

]]> 24:20 false 583 full TRC #582: COVID-19 Risk Of Death + Tom Nook Greedy Capitalist? COVID-19 Risk Of Death + Tom Nook Greedy Capitalist? Sat, 04 Apr 2020 18:57:36 +0000 Just can't get enough coronavirus and Animal Crossing talk? We've got you covered! This week Darren checks in on you and asks: what are the actual chances of dying from COVID-19? As usual, it's complicated. Next Adam looks into whether Tom Nook from the game Animal Crossing is a greedy capitalist villain, keeping players buried under ever-increasing debt.

]]> Just can't get enough coronavirus and Animal Crossing talk? We've got you covered! This week Darren checks in on you and asks: what are the actual chances of dying from COVID-19? As usual, it's complicated. Next Adam looks into whether Tom Nook from the game Animal Crossing is a greedy capitalist villain, keeping players buried under ever-increasing debt.

]]> 24:42 false 582 full TRC #581: Should You Try DIY Sanitizer? + Science x Sonic The Hedgehog + Naming COVID-19 Should You Try DIY Sanitizer? + Science x Sonic The Hedgehog + Naming COVID-19 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 20:45:03 +0000 Cristina looks into the proliferation of homemade hand sanitizer tutorials and whether it's safe to even be promoting the practice. Adam brings us a segment he planned to do during TRC's live show at Toronto Comicon this year...from a safe distance; how does the science in the latest Sonic The Hedgehog movie stack up? Finally, Darren answers a question from a cuboid who asks, 'is there an influenza virus separate from the influenza disease? Is calling COVID-19 a virus not accurate?

]]> Cristina looks into the proliferation of homemade hand sanitizer tutorials and whether it's safe to even be promoting the practice. Adam brings us a segment he planned to do during TRC's live show at Toronto Comicon this year...from a safe distance; how does the science in the latest Sonic The Hedgehog movie stack up? Finally, Darren answers a question from a cuboid who asks, 'is there an influenza virus separate from the influenza disease? Is calling COVID-19 a virus not accurate?

]]> 24:36 false 581 full TRC #580: COVID-19 Vs Flu + WHO COVID-19 Mythbusting + Toilet Paper Shortage? COVID-19 Vs Flu + WHO COVID-19 Mythbusting + Toilet Paper Shortage? Sat, 21 Mar 2020 19:33:50 +0000 How is everyone holding up out there? This week the whole crew is back...sort of. Darren tapes solo from his post-travel quarantine to bring us an in-depth look at COVID-19 versus the seasonal flu. Cristina shares some recent COVID-19 mythbusting from the WHO so we...ahem...won't get fooled again. Adam rounds out the show by looking at the recent stockpiling of toilet paper and asking, 'is there really a toilet paper shortage?'

]]> How is everyone holding up out there? This week the whole crew is back...sort of. Darren tapes solo from his post-travel quarantine to bring us an in-depth look at COVID-19 versus the seasonal flu. Cristina shares some recent COVID-19 mythbusting from the WHO so we...ahem...won't get fooled again. Adam rounds out the show by looking at the recent stockpiling of toilet paper and asking, 'is there really a toilet paper shortage?'

]]> 32:32 false 580 full TRC #579: Mad Mike's Rocket Crash + Mercury Precession x General Relativity + Revealed Preferences Mad Mike's Rocket Crash + Mercury Precession x General Relativity + Revealed Preferences Sat, 14 Mar 2020 17:42:37 +0000 With half the crew in isolation, we take a reprieve from coronavirus news. First, Adam digs into headlines about daredevil "Mad Mike" Hughes who died in a homemade rocket accident intended to "prove" the Earth is flat. One of our two favourite Stuarts, Dr. Stu Robbins, brings us a relatively compelling look into the precession of Mercury. Finally, Darren brings us an interesting overview of revealed preferences, a major theory of consumption behaviour. 

]]> With half the crew in isolation, we take a reprieve from coronavirus news. First, Adam digs into headlines about daredevil "Mad Mike" Hughes who died in a homemade rocket accident intended to "prove" the Earth is flat. One of our two favourite Stuarts, Dr. Stu Robbins, brings us a relatively compelling look into the precession of Mercury. Finally, Darren brings us an interesting overview of revealed preferences, a major theory of consumption behaviour.

]]> 25:06 false 579 full TRC #578: Does 9-1-1 need 9-1-1? + Why Is Bagged Milk A Canadian Thing? + Keeping Up With Coronavirus TRC Does 9-1-1 need 9-1-1? + Why Is Bagged Milk A Canadian Thing? + Keeping Up With Coronavirus Sat, 29 Feb 2020 21:38:15 +0000 Producer Pat schools us on 9-1-1 and emergency numbers worldwide after a personal experience dealing with a medical emergency opens his eyes. Cristina finds a way to tie the Toronto Raptors into her segment, when she looks into why bagged milk is a Canuck thing. Finally, while the COVID-19 situation is changing by the minute, Adam gives us a general overview of coronavirus disease and debunks some of the more ubiquitous myths.

]]> Producer Pat schools us on 9-1-1 and emergency numbers worldwide after a personal experience dealing with a medical emergency opens his eyes. Cristina finds a way to tie the Toronto Raptors into her segment, when she looks into why bagged milk is a Canuck thing. Finally, while the COVID-19 situation is changing by the minute, Adam gives us a general overview of coronavirus disease and debunks some of the more ubiquitous myths.

]]> 42:07 false 578 full TRC #577: Talking Close Relationships with Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk Talking Close Relationships with Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk Wed, 12 Feb 2020 15:24:47 +0000 Just in time for Valentine's Day! Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk is an Associate Professor at Carleton University in the Department of Psychology. She runs the "Positive Activities in Intimate Relationships Lab." Adam and Darren sit down for a fascinating chat with Cheryl about relationships, love, and how to make those relationships better through play and leisure.

]]> Just in time for Valentine's Day! Dr. Cheryl Harasymchuk is an Associate Professor at Carleton University in the Department of Psychology. She runs the "Positive Activities in Intimate Relationships Lab." Adam and Darren sit down for a fascinating chat with Cheryl about relationships, love, and how to make those relationships better through play and leisure.

]]> 38:58 false 577 full TRC #576: 10,000 Steps? + Transgender Violence A U.S. Epidemic? + The Master Algorithm 10,000 Steps? + Transgender Violence A U.S. Epidemic? + The Master Algorithm Fri, 31 Jan 2020 19:11:58 +0000 Cristina flexes her critical thinking muscles and investigates the legitimacy of why 10,000 steps a day is promoted as the magical number to stay healthy and fit. Adam looks at statistics to check claims that fatal anti-transgender violence is a national epidemic in the U.S. Lastly, Darren gives an overview of Pedro Domingos' book, "The Master Algorithm", a thought-provoking look at machine learning.

]]> Cristina flexes her critical thinking muscles and investigates the legitimacy of why 10,000 steps a day is promoted as the magical number to stay healthy and fit. Adam looks at statistics to check claims that fatal anti-transgender violence is a national epidemic in the U.S. Lastly, Darren gives an overview of Pedro Domingos' book, "The Master Algorithm", a thought-provoking look at machine learning.

]]> 29:22 false 576 full TRC #575: Impeachment + Future Of Work + Placenta-eating? Impeachment + Future Of Work + Placenta-eating? Sun, 19 Jan 2020 20:35:55 +0000 Producer Pat kicks off the show by clearing up some misconceptions about impeachment and looking at what it means to be impeached. Darren looks into the future of work and the key game changers covered in a report by foresight organization Policy Horizons Canada. Lastly, Adam tries to find any scientific evidence to support the purported benefits of eating one's placenta after giving birth.

]]> Producer Pat kicks off the show by clearing up some misconceptions about impeachment and looking at what it means to be impeached. Darren looks into the future of work and the key game changers covered in a report by foresight organization Policy Horizons Canada. Lastly, Adam tries to find any scientific evidence to support the purported benefits of eating one's placenta after giving birth.

]]> 30:11 false 575 full TRC #574: Year End Wrap Up Year End Wrap Up Sat, 11 Jan 2020 21:30:02 +0000 Happy New Year, Checkers! The crew rings in the first show of 2020 with a laughter-filled look back at last year. First, a little navel gazing while we chat about our favourite segments. Next, Producer Pat challenges the panel to a sneaky 2019 themed game of 'Name That'. Lastly, Adam fact checks how well we did with our 2019 predictions, before we take out the proverbial crystal ball and do it all again for 2020.

]]> Happy New Year, Checkers! The crew rings in the first show of 2020 with a laughter-filled look back at last year. First, a little navel gazing while we chat about our favourite segments. Next, Producer Pat challenges the panel to a sneaky 2019 themed game of 'Name That'. Lastly, Adam fact checks how well we did with our 2019 predictions, before we take out the proverbial crystal ball and do it all again for 2020.

]]> 41:48 false 574 full TRC #573: Arizona Vortex + Home Alone Booby Traps + 'The Devastating Consequences Of Urban Violence' Overview Arizona Vortex + Home Alone Booby Traps + 'The Devastating Consequences Of Urban Violence' Overview Sun, 22 Dec 2019 16:40:54 +0000 Darren sucks us into a segment about vortexes after a recent trip to Arizona leaves him scratching his head over their mystical 'enhanced energy' claims. Cristina looks behind the movie magic in "Home Alone" using science to assess the real life consequences of the booby traps 8 year old Kevin sets up for the Wet Bandits. Adam rounds out the show with a detailed look at Thomas Abt's book "Bleeding Out: The Devastating Consequences of Urban Violence", which uses an evidence based approach to look at issues surrounding urban violence.

]]> Darren sucks us into a segment about vortexes after a recent trip to Arizona leaves him scratching his head over their mystical 'enhanced energy' claims. Cristina looks behind the movie magic in "Home Alone" using science to assess the real life consequences of the booby traps 8 year old Kevin sets up for the Wet Bandits. Adam rounds out the show with a detailed look at Thomas Abt's book "Bleeding Out: The Devastating Consequences of Urban Violence", which uses an evidence based approach to look at issues surrounding urban violence.

]]> 34:22 false 573 full TRC #572: Blue Light Lens Mania + Donating Effectively + Marie Kondo's Store Blue Light Lens Mania + Donating Effectively + Marie Kondo's Store Sun, 01 Dec 2019 17:30:17 +0000 Cristina set her focus on some dubious sales pitches being made about blue light filtering lenses. Next, with Giving Tuesday right around the corner, Darren talks to us about giving to charities effectively.  Adam closes out the show with a look at organizing consultant and author Marie Kondo and her new online store.

]]> Cristina set her focus on some dubious sales pitches being made about blue light filtering lenses. Next, with Giving Tuesday right around the corner, Darren talks to us about giving to charities effectively. Adam closes out the show with a look at organizing consultant and author Marie Kondo and her new online store.

]]> 37:04 false 572 full TRC #571: Did China Ban Video Games After 10PM? + Did Portugal Solve Its Drug Crisis? + Malcolm Gladwell's Talking To Strangers Did China Bans Video Games After 10PM? + Did Portugal Solve Its Drug Crisis? + Malcolm Gladwell's Talking To Strangers Sat, 16 Nov 2019 20:56:45 +0000 Adam looks into some curious headlines suggesting that China has banned video games after 10PM. Cristina looks closely at how Portugal is doing 18 years after decriminalizing drugs. Darren explores the assumptions and mistakes humans make when dealing with people via Malcolm Gladwell's Talking To Strangers.

]]> Adam looks into some curious headlines suggesting that China has banned video games after 10PM. Cristina looks closely at how Portugal is doing 18 years after decriminalizing drugs. Darren explores the assumptions and mistakes humans make when dealing with people via Malcolm Gladwell's Talking To Strangers.

]]> 37:48 false 571 full TRC #570: Lead In Canada's Water + Flu Shot + Windshield Egg-Throwing Thugs? Lead In Canada's Water + Flu Shot + Windshield Egg-Throwing Thugs? Sun, 10 Nov 2019 15:24:31 +0000 Adam takes a deep dive into a recently published, Canada-wide investigation highlighting dangerous levels of lead in drinking water in the Great White North. 'Tis the season to get the flu shot. Darren breaks down what a flu vaccine is made of and why. Finally, Cristina takes on a widely-shared social media post warning people about criminals throwing eggs at car windshields.

]]> Adam takes a deep dive into a recently published, Canada-wide investigation highlighting dangerous levels of lead in drinking water in the Great White North. 'Tis the season to get the flu shot. Darren breaks down what a flu vaccine is made of and why. Finally, Cristina takes on a widely-shared social media post warning people about criminals throwing eggs at car windshields.

]]> 33:35 false 570 full TRC #569: Did Eagles Rack Up Roaming Charges? + Kids These Days + Peter Singer's Practical Ethics Did Eagles Rack Up Roaming Charges? + Kids These Days + Peter Singer's Practical Ethics Sat, 02 Nov 2019 15:13:54 +0000 This week, we kick off the show with Adam addressing listener email about his Hilary Clinton vs NASA segment. Cristina looks into a curious headline about migrating Russian eagles running up huge data roaming charges. Adam asks, are kids these days really worse than kids of days gone by? Finally, Darren revisits an oldie but a goodie, Peter Singer's Practical Ethics.

]]> This week, we kick off the show with Adam addressing listener email about his Hilary Clinton vs NASA segment. Cristina looks into a curious headline about migrating Russian eagles running up huge data roaming charges. Adam asks, are kids these days really worse than kids of days gone by? Finally, Darren revisits an oldie but a goodie, Peter Singer's Practical Ethics.

]]> 32:58 false 569 full TRC #568.5: Halloween Debate On Ron Corbett Unscripted 568.5 - Halloween Debate On Ron Corbett Unscripted Wed, 30 Oct 2019 15:10:03 +0000 Boo! A little extra candy in your podcast feed this week. TRC's Darren McKee appeared on CFRA News Talk Radio back in 2013 for a special Halloween episode of 'Ron Corbett Unscripted'. He participated in a debate about ghosts, spirits and the paranormal. 

]]> Boo! A little extra candy in your podcast feed this week. TRC's Darren McKee appeared on CFRA News Talk Radio back in 2013 for a special Halloween episode of 'Ron Corbett Unscripted'. He participated in a debate about ghosts, spirits and the paranormal.

]]> 38:33 false full TRC #568: Halloween THC Candy + Blob With 720 Sexes + Hillary Clinton NASA Denial Letter Halloween THC Candy + Blob With 720 Sexes + Hillary Clinton NASA Denial Letter Sat, 26 Oct 2019 19:54:20 +0000 Cristina looks into the latest Halloween fear mongering to assess whether THC-laced candy is an especially big concern this year. Darren digs deep behind the headlines that a Paris zoo showcased a blob with 720 sexes. Adam explores whether Hillary Clinton's account  of writing to NASA as a kid and receiving a reply stating that women can't be astronauts has a moon nugget of truth to it. 

]]> Cristina looks into the latest Halloween fear mongering to assess whether THC-laced candy is an especially big concern this year. Darren digs deep behind the headlines that a Paris zoo showcased a blob with 720 sexes. Adam explores whether Hillary Clinton's account of writing to NASA as a kid and receiving a reply stating that women can't be astronauts has a moon nugget of truth to it.

]]> 27:43 false 568 full TRC #567: Longest Word + Shag Harbour UFO Coin + OK Hate Symbol Pt. 2 Longest Word + Shag Harbour UFO Coin + OK Hate Symbol Pt. 2 Sat, 19 Oct 2019 14:28:21 +0000 This week, Darren's perspicacity shines through when he drops some knowledge on the panel about the longest words in the English language. Next, Cristina learns that the Canadian Mint is issuing a coin commemorating 'Canada's Roswell'...wait, Canada has a 'Roswell'? Lastly, Adam reexamines the recent OK sign controversies to establish whether it's O-KKK after a listener writes in with a new theory.

]]> This week, Darren's perspicacity shines through when he drops some knowledge on the panel about the longest words in the English language. Next, Cristina learns that the Canadian Mint is issuing a coin commemorating 'Canada's Roswell'...wait, Canada has a 'Roswell'? Lastly, Adam reexamines the recent OK sign controversies to establish whether it's O-KKK after a listener writes in with a new theory.

]]> 35:08 false 567 full TRC #566: Are Federal Election Votes Counted Equally? + Name That: Spot The Fake + Active Shooter Drills Effective? Are Federal Election Votes Counted Equally? + Name That: Spot The Fake + Active Shooter Drills Effective? Sat, 12 Oct 2019 17:19:52 +0000 This week, Darren kicks off the show by exploring whether votes cast in a Canadian federal election are counted equally. Pat brings another entertaining round of 'Spot The Fake' where the panel has to pick the fake out of of four equally ridiculous, yet true facts. Lastly, Adam sets a serious tone when exploring whether active shooter drills in U.S. schools are remotely effective or just tragically misguided. 

]]> This week, Darren kicks off the show by exploring whether votes cast in a Canadian federal election are counted equally. Pat brings another entertaining round of 'Spot The Fake' where the panel has to pick the fake out of of four equally ridiculous, yet true facts. Lastly, Adam sets a serious tone when exploring whether active shooter drills in U.S. schools are remotely effective or just tragically misguided.

]]> 30:30 false 566 full TRC #565: Plant-based Burgers Healthier? + Bruce Lee Death Conspiracies + OK Sign A Hate Symbol? Plant-based Burgers Healthier? + Bruce Lee Death Conspiracies + OK Sign A Hate Symbol? Sat, 05 Oct 2019 18:16:49 +0000 This week, Cristina fact checks whether claims about plant-based burgers being healthier than real meat hold up. Darren probes the conspiracy theories around Bruce Lee's death after reading 'Bruce Lee: A Life'. Finally, Adam looks into recent reports that the OK hand gesture is being used as a white nationalist hate symbol.

]]> This week, Cristina fact checks whether claims about plant-based burgers being healthier than real meat hold up. Darren probes the conspiracy theories around Bruce Lee's death after reading 'Bruce Lee: A Life'. Finally, Adam looks into recent reports that the OK hand gesture is being used as a white nationalist hate symbol.

]]> 33:46 false 565 full TRC #564: Catching Up With Dr. Stuart Farrimond Catching Up With Dr. Stuart Farrimond Fri, 27 Sep 2019 14:59:44 +0000 Last time we spoke with Dr. Stuart Farrimond it was two days before he was scheduled to undergo brain surgery to remove a cancerous tumour. This week we catch up with Stu. We discuss his ongoing treatment, he gives us some tidbits from his upcoming book and we even get in a couple of food science questions. Stuart is a medical doctor turned science communicator, author and food science expert.

]]> Last time we spoke with Dr. Stuart Farrimond it was two days before he was scheduled to undergo brain surgery to remove a cancerous tumour. This week we catch up with Stu. We discuss his ongoing treatment, he gives us some tidbits from his upcoming book and we even get in a couple of food science questions. Stuart is a medical doctor turned science communicator, author and food science expert.

]]> 41:53 false 564 full TRC #563: Citations And Science Reporting + Swearing Makes You Stronger + Evolution Of Skin Colour Citations And Science Reporting + Swearing Makes You Stronger + Evolution Of Skin Colour Sat, 21 Sep 2019 21:08:52 +0000 Darren looks into an article, and terrible graph, that suggests the rate at which scientists in Italy cite themselves and their colleagues is on the rise. Cristina checks out research into whether uttering profanities can make you stronger. Adam wonders about the evolutionary cause of various skin pigments in different human populations.

]]> Darren looks into an article, and terrible graph, that suggests the rate at which scientists in Italy cite themselves and their colleagues is on the rise. Cristina checks out research into whether uttering profanities can make you stronger. Adam wonders about the evolutionary cause of various skin pigments in different human populations.

]]> 30:18 false 563 full TRC #562: The Earth's Lungs + The Gay Gene + Canadian Election The Earth's Lungs + The Gay Gene + Canadian Election Sat, 14 Sep 2019 20:18:41 +0000 Pat looks into a listener's question about whether the Amazon rainforest is the Earth's lungs responsible for 20% of the oxygen we breathe. Next, Adam raises concerns about headlines claiming there is no such thing as a "gay gene" according to a new study. Lastly, with the election season upon us, Darren gives us a handy primer on Canada's election process.

]]> Pat looks into a listener's question about whether the Amazon rainforest is the Earth's lungs responsible for 20% of the oxygen we breathe. Next, Adam raises concerns about headlines claiming there is no such thing as a "gay gene" according to a new study. Lastly, with the election season upon us, Darren gives us a handy primer on Canada's election process.

]]> 34:17 false 562 full TRC #561: How IKEA Names Stuff + Absolute Zero + Amazon Fires How IKEA Names Stuff + Absolute Zero + Amazon Fires Sun, 08 Sep 2019 20:31:11 +0000 Cristina looks into the naming convention for IKEA products. Is KOLBJÖRN just Swedish for where's the allen key? Darren does a deep dive on absolute zero.  Adam looks into recent headlines about fires in the Amazon rainforest. The facts may surprise you. 

]]> Cristina looks into the naming convention for IKEA products. Is KOLBJÖRN just Swedish for where's the allen key? Darren does a deep dive on absolute zero. Adam looks into recent headlines about fires in the Amazon rainforest. The facts may surprise you.

]]> 30:58 false 561 full TRC #560: Mail Bag + Dr. Stuart Robbins And Retrograde + Name That: Apollo 11 Edition Mail Bag + Dr. Stuart Robbins And Retrograde + Name That: Apollo 11 Edition Sun, 25 Aug 2019 16:25:36 +0000 TRC's 'Fifth Beatle' Dr. Stuart Robbins, aka AstroStu, joins us this week for a fun and fact-packed show! Adam kicks things off highlighting recent listener's feedback. Stuart fact-checks Cristina and brings us a more in-depth look at retrograde in Astronomy. Finally, Pat gets cheeky with a game of 'Name That' about the moon landing.

]]> TRC's 'Fifth Beatle' Dr. Stuart Robbins, aka AstroStu, joins us this week for a fun and fact-packed show! Adam kicks things off highlighting recent listener's feedback. Stuart fact-checks Cristina and brings us a more in-depth look at retrograde in Astronomy. Finally, Pat gets cheeky with a game of 'Name That' about the moon landing.

]]> 32:09 false 560 full TRC #559: NY Times Best Seller List + Epstein Suicide? + The Secret Of Our Success NY Times Best Seller List + Epstein Suicide? + The Secret Of Our Success Sat, 17 Aug 2019 19:38:57 +0000 Cristina kicks off the show by taking a closer look at the NY Times Best Seller list and what being a "bestselling author" really means. Adam puts Occam's razor to good use while exploring whether it's plausible that Jeffrey Epstein may have committed suicide in jail. Finally, Darren digs into anthropologist Joseph Henrich's book, "The Secret of Our Success: How Culture Is Driving Human Evolution, Domesticating Our Species, and Making Us Smarter."

]]> Cristina kicks off the show by taking a closer look at the NY Times Best Seller list and what being a "bestselling author" really means. Adam puts Occam's razor to good use while exploring whether it's plausible that Jeffrey Epstein may have committed suicide in jail. Finally, Darren digs into anthropologist Joseph Henrich's book, "The Secret of Our Success: How Culture Is Driving Human Evolution, Domesticating Our Species, and Making Us Smarter."

]]> 37:35 false 559 full TRC #558: Can Hippos Swim? + Neil deGrasse Tweetstorm + Mona Lisa True Colours Can Hippos Swim? + Neil deGrasse Tweetstorm + Mona Lisa True Colours Fri, 09 Aug 2019 23:01:17 +0000 After we posted a funny meme on TRC's Facebook page, a couple of Checkers question whether hippos can really swim so Pat goes on a mission to find out. Simple yes or no answer, right? Not on this show! Darren breaks down Neil deGrasse Tyson's tweet and apology around recent U.S. shootings that made some people more than a little upset. Finally, Adam gives us a cool art history lesson after visiting an exhibit on Leonardo da Vinci and realizing the Mona Lisa may not be who she seems.

]]> After we posted a funny meme on TRC's Facebook page, a couple of Checkers question whether hippos can really swim so Pat goes on a mission to find out. Simple yes or no answer, right? Not on this show! Darren breaks down Neil deGrasse Tyson's tweet and apology around recent U.S. shootings that made some people more than a little upset. Finally, Adam gives us a cool art history lesson after visiting an exhibit on Leonardo da Vinci and realizing the Mona Lisa may not be who she seems.

]]> 34:01 false 558 full TRC #557: Mercury Retrograde + Is All Table Salt Sea Salt? + 'Why We Sleep' Mercury Retrograde + Is All Table Salt Sea Salt? + 'Why We Sleep' Sun, 04 Aug 2019 17:25:32 +0000 Are you having a bad month, Checkers? Mercury is said to be in retrograde but what does that really mean? Cristina takes us on a little fact-finding mission through the Cosmos to find out. Next, Adam brings the panel another great 'I did not know that!' segment when he breaks down the origin of salt after Neil deGrasse Tyson tweets all salt comes from the Sea. Finally, Darren helps busts some sleep myths after reading 'Why We Sleep' by neuroscientist Matthew Walker.

]]> Are you having a bad month, Checkers? Mercury is said to be in retrograde but what does that really mean? Cristina takes us on a little fact-finding mission through the Cosmos to find out. Next, Adam brings the panel another great 'I did not know that!' segment when he breaks down the origin of salt after Neil deGrasse Tyson tweets all salt comes from the Sea. Finally, Darren helps busts some sleep myths after reading 'Why We Sleep' by neuroscientist Matthew Walker.

]]> 31:17 false 557 full TRC #556: Talking Irish Famine Myths With Professor Buzzkill Talking Irish Famine Myths With Professor Buzzkill Sat, 27 Jul 2019 14:17:07 +0000 This week we bring you a special episode after an Irish listener writes in and asks us to fact-check myths surrounding the Irish Famine. Luckily friend of the show, historian and author Joe Coohill, literally wrote the book on Ireland. Better known as Professor Buzzkill from the awesome podcast of the same name, Joe helps us set the record straight debunking historical myths on the tragedy.

]]> This week we bring you a special episode after an Irish listener writes in and asks us to fact-check myths surrounding the Irish Famine. Luckily friend of the show, historian and author Joe Coohill, literally wrote the book on Ireland. Better known as Professor Buzzkill from the awesome podcast of the same name, Joe helps us set the record straight debunking historical myths on the tragedy.

]]> 30:39 false 556 full TRC #555: Quantum Uncertainty + Lost NASA Tapes? + Storming Area 51 Quantum Uncertainty + Lost NASA Tapes? + Storming Area 51 Sat, 20 Jul 2019 15:23:08 +0000 Your fave fact-checking crew is back with a new show! First, Darren kicks things off by most certainly looking at quantum uncertainty...or not...or both. Next, Cristina celebrates the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11's historic moon landing by probing whether a former NASA intern is really auctioning off "lost" footage of the first moonwalk. Finally, Adam questions the validity of the Facebook event "Storm Area 51, They Can't Stop All of Us".

]]> Your fave fact-checking crew is back with a new show! First, Darren kicks things off by most certainly looking at quantum uncertainty...or not...or both. Next, Cristina celebrates the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11's historic moon landing by probing whether a former NASA intern is really auctioning off "lost" footage of the first moonwalk. Finally, Adam questions the validity of the Facebook event "Storm Area 51, They Can't Stop All of Us".

]]> 35:06 false 555 full TRC #554: Talking Flat Earth With Stuart Robbins And Ed Robertson Talking Flat Earth With Stuart Robbins And Ed Robertson Fri, 05 Jul 2019 18:45:37 +0000 Not your typical episode of The Reality Check. We bring you a conversation with friends of the show Dr. Stuart Robbins and Ed Robertson. We discussed conspiracy theories and Ed's recent run in with a flat earther. Stuart is a professional astro/geophysicist. Ed is the frontman of Barenaked Ladies and wrote the theme song for The Big Bang Theory.

]]> Not your typical episode of The Reality Check. We bring you a conversation with friends of the show Dr. Stuart Robbins and Ed Robertson. We discussed conspiracy theories and Ed's recent run in with a flat earther. Stuart is a professional astro/geophysicist. Ed is the frontman of Barenaked Ladies and wrote the theme song for The Big Bang Theory.

]]> 20:48 false 554 full TRC #553: Talking Germs with Jason Tetro Talking Germs with Jason Tetro Sat, 29 Jun 2019 18:34:32 +0000 This week we bring you an interview with Jason "The Germ Guy" Tetro, recorded earlier this month. Jason is a researcher in microbiology and immunology. He is a best selling author of "The Germ Code" and "The Germ Files."  Jason is also the host of the Super Awesome Science Show podcast.

]]> This week we bring you an interview with Jason "The Germ Guy" Tetro, recorded earlier this month. Jason is a researcher in microbiology and immunology. He is a best selling author of "The Germ Code" and "The Germ Files." Jason is also the host of the Super Awesome Science Show podcast.

]]> 39:51 false 553 full TRC #552: Surprising Loch Ness Proof? + Drake Curse + Where Does Space Begin? Surprising Loch Ness Proof? + Drake Curse + Where Does Space Begin? Fri, 21 Jun 2019 19:55:01 +0000 Adam dives deep into recent headlines suggesting that the Loch Ness monster could possibly be real based on some murky DNA research. Cristina throws her hands in the air and tries to set the record straight on the alleged Drake, aka Drizzy, curse rocking the sports world.  Lastly, Ed Robertson, of the band Barenaked Ladies, asks Dr. Stuart Robbins "where does the Earth's atmosphere end and space begin?

]]> Adam dives deep into recent headlines suggesting that the Loch Ness monster could possibly be real based on some murky DNA research. Cristina throws her hands in the air and tries to set the record straight on the alleged Drake, aka Drizzy, curse rocking the sports world. Lastly, Ed Robertson, of the band Barenaked Ladies, asks Dr. Stuart Robbins "where does the Earth's atmosphere end and space begin?

]]> 20:31 false 552 full TRC #551: Talking Brain Tumours With Dr. Stuart Farrimond Talking Brain Tumours With Dr. Stuart Farrimond Fri, 14 Jun 2019 17:48:03 +0000 Stuart has been on the show many times discussing food science and food myths but this interview is different. Some Checkers may not know that the Doctor before his name is because he is a medical doctor. Two days before Stuart was scheduled to undergo surgery, he talked with Pat and Cristina about brain tumours, cancer, cancer treatment and his story.

]]> Stuart has been on the show many times discussing food science and food myths but this interview is different. Some Checkers may not know that the Doctor before his name is because he is a medical doctor. Two days before Stuart was scheduled to undergo surgery, he talked with Pat and Cristina about brain tumours, cancer, cancer treatment and his story.

]]> 33:12 false 551 full TRC #550: Did NBA'er Manute Bol Coin 'My Bad'? + Unmarried People Happier? + Fortnite Vs The Doppler Effect Did NBA'er Manute Bol Coin 'My Bad'? + Unmarried People Happier? + Fortnite Vs The Doppler Effect Sat, 08 Jun 2019 19:25:54 +0000 Cristina kicks off the show with a basketball related myth in honour of her beloved Toronto Raptors; did NBA legend Manute Bol really coin the phrase 'My Bad'? As the only TRC co-host who is not married, Darren scrutinizes an article citing research that suggests unmarried people are happier, probably just to rub it in. Finally, Adam vents his Fornite pet peeve that the game just doesn't get the Doppler Effect.

]]> Cristina kicks off the show with a basketball related myth in honour of her beloved Toronto Raptors; did NBA legend Manute Bol really coin the phrase 'My Bad'? As the only TRC co-host who is not married, Darren scrutinizes an article citing research that suggests unmarried people are happier, probably just to rub it in. Finally, Adam vents his Fornite pet peeve that the game just doesn't get the Doppler Effect.

]]> 30:08 false 550 full TRC #549: Forever Fries & Onion Tears With Dr. Stuart Farrimond + Name That: British Food Edition Forever Fries & Onion Tears With Dr. Stuart Farrimond + Name That: British Food Edition Sun, 02 Jun 2019 18:51:27 +0000 Our favourite Food Scientist is back to tackle some of your most pressing food-related questions. Ever find a 3 week old fry under a car seat? Stuart breaks down why fast food seems to last forever without going bad. Next, he tells us about why onions make us cry and what we can do about it. Bonus question: why do we "rest" beef and chicken but not fish? Pat rounds out the show with a 3 vs 1 edition of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game "name that" where the crew teams up against Stuart.

]]> Our favourite Food Scientist is back to tackle some of your most pressing food-related questions. Ever find a 3 week old fry under a car seat? Stuart breaks down why fast food seems to last forever without going bad. Next, he tells us about why onions make us cry and what we can do about it. Bonus question: why do we "rest" beef and chicken but not fish? Pat rounds out the show with a 3 vs 1 edition of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game "name that" where the crew teams up against Stuart.

]]> 40:11 false 549 full TRC #548: Presidential War On Press? + Science Proves Hip Hop Is Most Influential Genre? + Energy Costs Vs Waste Presidential War On Press? + Science Proves Hip Hop Is Most Influential Genre? + Energy Costs Vs Waste Sat, 25 May 2019 19:43:17 +0000 Darren kicks off the show dropping a bombshell on the panel when he looks into reporting around the U.S. government seizing records for phone lines assigned to the Associated Press  and its journalists. Cristina finds out if we can prove rap is the most important music since 1960 using Science. Finally, Adam revisits his segment on plastic vs cloth bags after a listener points out he may have failed to consider the consequences of plastic on our environment.

]]> Darren kicks off the show dropping a bombshell on the panel when he looks into reporting around the U.S. government seizing records for phone lines assigned to the Associated Press and its journalists. Cristina finds out if we can prove rap is the most important music since 1960 using Science. Finally, Adam revisits his segment on plastic vs cloth bags after a listener points out he may have failed to consider the consequences of plastic on our environment.

]]> 32:54 false 548 full TRC #547: What Is A SIN? + Global Population Growth + Sonic Doll Made Of Human Skeleton? What Is A SIN? + Global Population Growth + Sonic Doll Made Of Human Skeleton? Sat, 18 May 2019 17:14:57 +0000 This week Pat looks at the Social Insurance Number, what it is and who can ask for it. Darren ponders how many humans there are now, how many there were and how many there will be. Adam checks out rumours that someone made a life sized doll of a Sonic the Hedgehog character, Sally Acorn, built around a human skeleton.

]]> This week Pat looks at the Social Insurance Number, what it is and who can ask for it. Darren ponders how many humans there are now, how many there were and how many there will be. Adam checks out rumours that someone made a life sized doll of a Sonic the Hedgehog character, Sally Acorn, built around a human skeleton.

]]> 30:30 false 547 full TRC #546: Aura Readings + Stand-up Comedy NDAs + Who's Tracking Your Browsing History? Aura Readings + Stand-up Comedy NDAs + Who's Tracking Your Browsing History? Sat, 11 May 2019 18:24:59 +0000 This week, Cristina is fired up about an article she saw in a recent fitness magazine glorifying aura readings and aura photography. Darren asks, "What's the deal with stand-up comedy NDAs?" after a comedy club posts a notice ahead of Louis CK's set. Finally, Adam scrutinizes how well websites track your browsing history.

]]> This week, Cristina is fired up about an article she saw in a recent fitness magazine glorifying aura readings and aura photography. Darren asks, "What's the deal with stand-up comedy NDAs?" after a comedy club posts a notice ahead of Louis CK's set. Finally, Adam scrutinizes how well websites track your browsing history.

]]> 41:55 false 546 full TRC #545: What Gaslighting Is & Isn't + So-Called Facts + Loch Ness Monster Effect What Gaslighting Is & Isn't + So-Called Facts + Loch Ness Monster Effect Sat, 04 May 2019 14:37:52 +0000 With the term 'gaslighting' popping up everywhere (again), Adam looks into the origins of the term, what is and isn't considered gaslighting, and whether the cries that Trump is 'gaslighting America' fit the context. Cristina brings some needed levity after discovering an AskReddit thread listing people's most highly believable facts that turned out to be B.S. Finally, Darren explores how the idea of the Loch Ness Monster may have manifested in our collective consciousness.

]]> With the term 'gaslighting' popping up everywhere (again), Adam looks into the origins of the term, what is and isn't considered gaslighting, and whether the cries that Trump is 'gaslighting America' fit the context. Cristina brings some needed levity after discovering an AskReddit thread listing people's most highly believable facts that turned out to be B.S. Finally, Darren explores how the idea of the Loch Ness Monster may have manifested in our collective consciousness.

]]> 27:06 false 545 full TRC #544: Notre Dame & Ubisoft + Planetary Pictures with Stuart Robbins + Nature Doc Suffering Notre Dame & Ubisoft + Planetary Pictures with Stuart Robbins + Nature Doc Suffering Fri, 26 Apr 2019 20:15:09 +0000 Adam is off this week but '5th Beatle' Dr. Stuart Robbins joins the rest of the crew LIVE at TRC studios! First, Pat looks into headlines that a video game called Assassin's Creed Unity could be used to help rebuild Notre Dame Cathedral. Stuart schools us on a topic that has been consuming his life for the last 18 months: planetary cartography. Lastly, Darren discusses controversial scenes depicting animal suffering in the new nature documentary 'Our Planet'.

]]> Adam is off this week but '5th Beatle' Dr. Stuart Robbins joins the rest of the crew LIVE at TRC studios! First, Pat looks into headlines that a video game called Assassin's Creed Unity could be used to help rebuild Notre Dame Cathedral. Stuart schools us on a topic that has been consuming his life for the last 18 months: planetary cartography. Lastly, Darren discusses controversial scenes depicting animal suffering in the new nature documentary 'Our Planet'.

]]> 34:00 false 544 full TRC #543: The Dr. Katie Bouman Narrative + Another Segment About Cats + Measles Parties The Dr. Katie Bouman Narrative + Another Segment About Cats + Measles Parties Fri, 19 Apr 2019 15:20:22 +0000 Happy Pagan Spring Weekend! Darren kicks off the show by looking at recent media coverage around Dr. Katie Bouman and how she 'accidentally' became the face of the Black Hole project. Adam brings us another fur-midable look at cats and asks how many lives do cats really have? Finally, Cristina has to remind us why 'measles parties' are a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad idea.

]]> Happy Pagan Spring Weekend! Darren kicks off the show by looking at recent media coverage around Dr. Katie Bouman and how she 'accidentally' became the face of the Black Hole project. Adam brings us another fur-midable look at cats and asks how many lives do cats really have? Finally, Cristina has to remind us why 'measles parties' are a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad idea.

]]> 32:47 false 543 full TRC #542: Social Influencers Vs The FDA + Critical Thinking In Practice + Closest Planet To Earth? Social Influencers Vs The FDA + Critical Thinking In Practice + Closest Planet To Earth? Sun, 14 Apr 2019 14:17:25 +0000 My very excellent mother says it's a new TRC! Cristina kicks off the show with a look at the dicey world of social influencers and sponsored medical content. Next, Darren tells us more about his trip to Egypt and considers how to use critical thinking when faced with the social pressure to buy things while travelling. Lastly, Adam gets all math-y on us when he asks: on average, what is the closest planet to Earth?  

]]> My very excellent mother says it's a new TRC! Cristina kicks off the show with a look at the dicey world of social influencers and sponsored medical content. Next, Darren tells us more about his trip to Egypt and considers how to use critical thinking when faced with the social pressure to buy things while travelling. Lastly, Adam gets all math-y on us when he asks: on average, what is the closest planet to Earth?

]]> 36:02 false 542 full TRC #541.5: First Image Of A Black Hole With Dr. Stuart Robbins First Image Of A Black Hole With Dr. Stuart Robbins Thu, 11 Apr 2019 16:36:16 +0000 A little extra content for all you checkers this week! Given the recent headlines about the first image of a black hole, Pat and Cristina give our favourite astronomer a call to help us understand what it means. Dr. Stuart Robbins is a research scientist in the field of planetary geophysics.

]]> A little extra content for all you checkers this week! Given the recent headlines about the first image of a black hole, Pat and Cristina give our favourite astronomer a call to help us understand what it means. Dr. Stuart Robbins is a research scientist in the field of planetary geophysics.

]]> 10:10 false bonus TRC #541: Shen Yun & Falon Gong + Is Disney On Ice? + Bad Astronomy Shen Yun & Falon Gong + Is Disney On Ice? + Bad Astronomy Sat, 06 Apr 2019 17:48:33 +0000 This week Adam looks at Shen Yun Performing Arts and investigates its ties to the Falon Gong, the Chinese Government, Communism and organ harvesting. Next, Cristina examines a longstanding notion that Walt Disney arranged to have his corpse frozen in a cryonic chamber to be revived at a later date. Lastly, Darren gives an overview of Phil Plait's book 'Bad Astronomy: Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Astrology to the Moon Landing Hoax'.

]]> This week Adam looks at Shen Yun Performing Arts and investigates its ties to the Falon Gong, the Chinese Government, Communism and organ harvesting. Next, Cristina examines a longstanding notion that Walt Disney arranged to have his corpse frozen in a cryonic chamber to be revived at a later date. Lastly, Darren gives an overview of Phil Plait's book 'Bad Astronomy: Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Astrology to the Moon Landing Hoax'.

]]> 33:28 false 541 full TRC #540: What We Learned This Week Ft Greg & Mitch of AsapSCIENCE & Sidenote + Name That: Spot The Fake What We Learned This Week Ft Greg & Mitch of AsapSCIENCE & Sidenote + Name That: Spot The Fake Fri, 29 Mar 2019 16:30:40 +0000 This week, Greg Brown and Mitch Moffit, the dynamic duo behind the hugely successful AsapSCIENCE YouTube channel and Sidenote podcast, grace TRC's studio for a fun and fact-filled show! Mitch kicks things off with their popular Sidenote segment, "What Did We Learn This Week", by examining the influence of trees on the urban heat island effect. Greg brings us a fascinating look at how farming culture influenced pronunciation. Finally, Producer Pat helms a hilarious round of 'Spot The Fake' featuring Greg, Mitch, Cristina, Darren and Adam.

]]> This week, Greg Brown and Mitch Moffit, the dynamic duo behind the hugely successful AsapSCIENCE YouTube channel and Sidenote podcast, grace TRC's studio for a fun and fact-filled show! Mitch kicks things off with their popular Sidenote segment, "What Did We Learn This Week", by examining the influence of trees on the urban heat island effect. Greg brings us a fascinating look at how farming culture influenced pronunciation. Finally, Producer Pat helms a hilarious round of 'Spot The Fake' featuring Greg, Mitch, Cristina, Darren and Adam.

]]> 31:47 false 540 full TRC #539: The Centrifuge Brain Project + Damaged Egyptian Sculpture + Police and DNA Databases The Centrifuge Brain Project + Damaged Egyptian Sculpture + Police and DNA Databases Fri, 22 Mar 2019 15:01:04 +0000 Happy Spring, Checkers! Pat kicks off the show with one of his fun deep dives and looks into a suspicious online video of an amusement park ride that has gone viral to the tune of over 100 million views. Next up, Darren follows up on his segment from last week to answer 'why do so many Egyptian statues have broken noses?' Finally, Adam examines whether or not the police could track you down using a DNA database and ponders the implications.

]]> Happy Spring, Checkers! Pat kicks off the show with one of his fun deep dives and looks into a suspicious online video of an amusement park ride that has gone viral to the tune of over 100 million views. Next up, Darren follows up on his segment from last week to answer 'why do so many Egyptian statues have broken noses?' Finally, Adam examines whether or not the police could track you down using a DNA database and ponders the implications.

]]> 31:09 false 539 full TRC #538: Ancient Egypt + J.D. Power Awards + Hocus Pocus Ancient Egypt + J.D. Power Awards + Hocus Pocus Sat, 16 Mar 2019 17:42:37 +0000 The whole crew is back on the cast this week! Fresh from his trip to Egypt and Jordan, Darren digs into some fascinating ancient Egyptian myths. After seeing car commercials lauding J.D. Power & Associates awards for the umpteenth time, Cristina asks 'wtf are the J.D. Power Awards?' Finally, Adam tries to determine the true origin of the term "hocus pocus".

]]> The whole crew is back on the cast this week! Fresh from his trip to Egypt and Jordan, Darren digs into some fascinating ancient Egyptian myths. After seeing car commercials lauding J.D. Power & Associates awards for the umpteenth time, Cristina asks 'wtf are the J.D. Power Awards?' Finally, Adam tries to determine the true origin of the term "hocus pocus".

]]> 30:24 false 538 full TRC #537: Food Allergies with Dr. David Stukus Food Allergies with Dr. David Stukus Fri, 08 Mar 2019 18:44:52 +0000 We are thrilled to have Dr David Stukus back on TRC!  He tells us what the science has to say about introducing allergenic foods into an infant's diet plus he answers some checker's questions.  Dave is a pediatric allergy and asthma specialist at Nationwide Children's hospital. He's the social media medical editor for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and a member of the Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters.  He is an author, podcaster, and a strong advocate of science based-medicine on Twitter.

]]> We are thrilled to have Dr David Stukus back on TRC! He tells us what the science has to say about introducing allergenic foods into an infant's diet plus he answers some checker's questions. Dave is a pediatric allergy and asthma specialist at Nationwide Children's hospital. He's the social media medical editor for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and a member of the Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters. He is an author, podcaster, and a strong advocate of science based-medicine on Twitter.

]]> 27:15 false 537 full TRC #536: Food Science with Dr. Stuart Farrimond Food Science with Dr. Stuart Farrimond Sat, 02 Mar 2019 16:30:47 +0000 Dr. Stuart Farrimond is back and we are chuffed! Specializing in food science, Stuart is a former medical doctor turned science and medical writer, presenter, and educator who makes regular appearances on British TV, radio and international publications including the Independent, the Daily Mail, and New Scientist. Why do we toot when we eat magical fruit? Do we really need to store eggs in the fridge? Answers to these fun q's and more on this week's show.

]]> Dr. Stuart Farrimond is back and we are chuffed! Specializing in food science, Stuart is a former medical doctor turned science and medical writer, presenter, and educator who makes regular appearances on British TV, radio and international publications including the Independent, the Daily Mail, and New Scientist. Why do we toot when we eat magical fruit? Do we really need to store eggs in the fridge? Answers to these fun q's and more on this week's show.

]]> 50:24 false 536 full TRC #535: Border Walls In History with Professor Buzzkill Border Walls In History with Professor Buzzkill Fri, 22 Feb 2019 19:00:00 +0000 With Darren and Adam away, Pat and Cristina have a chat with historian and author Joe Coohill. Better known as Professor Buzzkill from the podcast of the same name, Joe recently put out an interesting episode about border walls in history; why they were built and whether on not they worked. We then turn the show over to Joe for his episode on the topic.

]]> With Darren and Adam away, Pat and Cristina have a chat with historian and author Joe Coohill. Better known as Professor Buzzkill from the podcast of the same name, Joe recently put out an interesting episode about border walls in history; why they were built and whether on not they worked. We then turn the show over to Joe for his episode on the topic.

]]> 25:43 false 535 full TRC #534: Measles vs Anti-Vax Parents + Canada's Forests & Carbon Emissions + Quebec Politician Falls Flat? Measles vs Anti-Vax Parents + Canada's Forests & Carbon Emissions + Quebec Politician Falls Flat? Sat, 16 Feb 2019 20:00:00 +0000 Cristina brings the stats and facts behind recent measles outbreaks and highlights the importance of teaching young people how to think critically. Darren explores whether Canada's forests actually emit more carbon than they absorb. Lastly, Adam investigates whether comments about flat earth and 'Islamophobia' by a Quebec-based city councillor were taken out of context.

]]> Cristina brings the stats and facts behind recent measles outbreaks and highlights the importance of teaching young people how to think critically. Darren explores whether Canada's forests actually emit more carbon than they absorb. Lastly, Adam investigates whether comments about flat earth and 'Islamophobia' by a Quebec-based city councillor were taken out of context.

]]> 31:47 false 534 full TRC #533: Wipers: Up Or Down? + 'Bell Let's Talk Day' + Who is Cecilia Payne? Wipers: Up Or Down? + 'Bell Let's Talk Day' + Who is Cecilia Payne? Sat, 09 Feb 2019 18:00:00 +0000 Pat exhausts several resources to help answer the burning question on our minds this Winter. Should you leave windshield wipers up, or down? Adam unpacks the 'Bell Let's Talk Day' campaign which takes a chain-letter approach to raise awareness around mental health. Lastly, Cristina dips into TRC's mailbag and takes on a listener's request to highlight astrophysicist Cecilia Payne.

]]> Pat exhausts several resources to help answer the burning question on our minds this Winter. Should you leave windshield wipers up, or down? Adam unpacks the 'Bell Let's Talk Day' campaign which takes a chain-letter approach to raise awareness around mental health. Lastly, Cristina dips into TRC's mailbag and takes on a listener's request to highlight astrophysicist Cecilia Payne.

]]> 34:34 false 533 full TRC #532: Super Bowl Myths + Canada's Food Guide + Are Noise Meters Fake? Super Bowl Myths + Canada's Food Guide + Are Noise Meters Fake? Sat, 02 Feb 2019 21:11:41 +0000 Cristina kicks off the show by separating the facts from the fumbles around Super Bowl myths. Darren digs into Canada's latest Food Guide and asks whether its current revamp is line with the best evidence and data available. Finally, Adam ponders whether noise meters at sports events are all fake.

]]> Cristina kicks off the show by separating the facts from the fumbles around Super Bowl myths. Darren digs into Canada's latest Food Guide and asks whether its current revamp is line with the best evidence and data available. Finally, Adam ponders whether noise meters at sports events are all fake.

]]> 30:09 false 532 full TRC #531: Lincoln Memorial Incident + Puffery + Bohemian Rhapsody & Brian May Lincoln Memorial Incident + Puffery + Bohemian Rhapsody & Brian May Fri, 25 Jan 2019 21:09:03 +0000 It's a brand new TRC! First, Darren looks at the backlash over a recent confrontation between protesters and school kids at the Lincoln Memorial. Cristina examines 'puffery' and its implications in the world of advertising. Pat rounds out the show by fact checking the movie 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and goes straight to the man himself, Brian May, to corroborate a longtime story that he uses a sixpence as a guitar pick.

]]> It's a brand new TRC! First, Darren looks at the backlash over a recent confrontation between protesters and school kids at the Lincoln Memorial. Cristina examines 'puffery' and its implications in the world of advertising. Pat rounds out the show by fact checking the movie 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and goes straight to the man himself, Brian May, to corroborate a longtime story that he uses a sixpence as a guitar pick.

]]> 33:19 false 531 full TRC #530: Favourite Segments 2018 + Name That: Year In Review + Predictions Favourite Segments 2018 + Name That: Year In Review + Predictions Mon, 21 Jan 2019 15:30:00 +0000 The TRC crew is back to usher in the New Year with a fun-filled show! First, we look back at our favourite segments from 2018. Next, Pat challenges the panel with a year in review game of 'Name That'. Lastly, Adam revisits the gang's 'predictions' from last year and we set aside logic yet again to guess at what might happen in 2019.

]]> The TRC crew is back to usher in the New Year with a fun-filled show! First, we look back at our favourite segments from 2018. Next, Pat challenges the panel with a year in review game of 'Name That'. Lastly, Adam revisits the gang's 'predictions' from last year and we set aside logic yet again to guess at what might happen in 2019.

]]> 45:41 false 530 full TRC #529: The Neuroscience Of Addiction with Dr. Kim Hellemans The Neuroscience Of Addiction with Dr. Kim Hellemans Sat, 05 Jan 2019 23:00:00 +0000 Happy 2019, Checkers! The crew will be back with regular shows soon. In the meantime, we bring you a fascinating interview with Dr. Kim Hellemans about the neuroscience of addiction.  Kim is an award-winning neuroscientist and the chair of the department of neuroscience at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. She is also a co-host of Minding The Brain podcast. Enjoy!

]]> Happy 2019, Checkers! The crew will be back with regular shows soon. In the meantime, we bring you a fascinating interview with Dr. Kim Hellemans about the neuroscience of addiction. Kim is an award-winning neuroscientist and the chair of the department of neuroscience at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. She is also a co-host of Minding The Brain podcast. Enjoy!

]]> 38:55 false 529 full TRC #528: The Science Of Reindeer The Science Of Reindeer Sat, 22 Dec 2018 17:30:00 +0000 Happy holidays, Checkers.  The RC crew is off but Adam couldn't stay away from the mic.  He belongs in the air! We bring you a holiday segment all about reindeer.  Is the Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer TV special problematic? Just how shiny would that nose have to be to guide a sleigh?  Are Santa's reindeer female?

]]> Happy holidays, Checkers. The RC crew is off but Adam couldn't stay away from the mic. He belongs in the air! We bring you a holiday segment all about reindeer. Is the Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer TV special problematic? Just how shiny would that nose have to be to guide a sleigh? Are Santa's reindeer female?

]]> 14:06 false 528 full TRC #527: Baby It's Cold Outside Baby It's Cold Outside Sat, 08 Dec 2018 18:00:00 +0000 The RC crew is off for the festive season but controversy around the 1940's song 'Baby It's Cold Outside' is swirling. We revisit a segment from Darren breaking down the song's lyrical content with Dr. Stuart Robbins as a guest panelist. We also bring you parodies Pat and Cristina did on previous Xmas shows including a second song making the news due to an inappropriate lyric. Enjoy!

]]> The RC crew is off for the festive season but controversy around the 1940's song 'Baby It's Cold Outside' is swirling. We revisit a segment from Darren breaking down the song's lyrical content with Dr. Stuart Robbins as a guest panelist. We also bring you parodies Pat and Cristina did on previous Xmas shows including a second song making the news due to an inappropriate lyric. Enjoy!

]]> 13:17 false 527 full TRC #526: Effective Donating + Dr. Stuart Robbins Vmail + How Does Citizenship Work If You're Born In The Air Or At Sea? Effective Donating + Dr. Stuart Robbins Vmail + How Does Citizenship Work If You're Born In The Air Or At Sea? Sun, 02 Dec 2018 15:30:00 +0000 What's up, Checkers? This week's show was recorded on "Giving Tuesday" so Darren brings us an update on effective giving and how to make informed decisions about the charities you support. Dr. Stuart Robbins 'phones-in' with a follow-up on flat earther arguments and the late heavy bombardment. Adam rounds out the show with a follow-up to his recent segment on U.S. citizenship, after a listener asks, what happens if you're born in the air or at sea?

]]> What's up, Checkers? This week's show was recorded on "Giving Tuesday" so Darren brings us an update on effective giving and how to make informed decisions about the charities you support. Dr. Stuart Robbins 'phones-in' with a follow-up on flat earther arguments and the late heavy bombardment. Adam rounds out the show with a follow-up to his recent segment on U.S. citizenship, after a listener asks, what happens if you're born in the air or at sea?

]]> 28:59 false 526 full TRC #525: Turkey Cooking Temps + Skepticism & The Tourism Industry With András Pinter + Name That: Europe Edition Turkey Cooking Temps + Skepticism & The Tourism Industry With András Pinter + Name That: Europe Edition Sat, 24 Nov 2018 20:57:00 +0000 This week, Cristina revisits a topic covered on last week's show by guest Dr. Stuart Farrimond after a couple of food inspectors, who also happen to be Checkers, write in about food safety guidelines. András Pinter, host of the European Skeptics Podcast, joins the panel for an interesting discussion about the tourism industry and how a tour guide can strike the right balance between skepticism and entertainment. Finally, Producer Pat challenges our European knowledge with everyone's favourite mostly guessing game, Name That.

]]> This week, Cristina revisits a topic covered on last week's show by guest Dr. Stuart Farrimond after a couple of food inspectors, who also happen to be Checkers, write in about food safety guidelines. András Pinter, host of the European Skeptics Podcast, joins the panel for an interesting discussion about the tourism industry and how a tour guide can strike the right balance between skepticism and entertainment. Finally, Producer Pat challenges our European knowledge with everyone's favourite mostly guessing game, Name That.

]]> 34:44 false 525 full TRC #524: Science Behind The Perfect Roast Turkey Ft. Dr. Stuart Farrimond + Cigar-shaped 'Oumuamuau' An Alien Spacecraft? Science Behind The Perfect Roast Turkey Ft. Dr. Stuart Farrimond + Cigar-shaped 'Oumuamuau' An Alien Spacecraft? Sat, 17 Nov 2018 20:00:00 +0000 Another fun and fact-filled episode comin' at you! Our favourite resident food scientist and author Dr. Stuart Farrimond is back with a new book about the science of Spice. He schools us on how to make the perfect roast turkey just in time for your festive holiday dinners. Next, Adam looks into all the brouhaha over a cigar-shaped interstellar object that zoomed through our solar system and that some suggest may be an alien spacecraft.

]]> Another fun and fact-filled episode comin' at you! Our favourite resident food scientist and author Dr. Stuart Farrimond is back with a new book about the science of Spice. He schools us on how to make the perfect roast turkey just in time for your festive holiday dinners. Next, Adam looks into all the brouhaha over a cigar-shaped interstellar object that zoomed through our solar system and that some suggest may be an alien spacecraft.

]]> 43:04 false 524 full TRC #523: Anti-Vax Article Update + Beauty Product Claims + Brief History Of Early Life + Trump's Offspring US Citizens? Anti-Vax Article Update + Beauty Product Claims + Brief History Of Early Life + Trump's Offspring US Citizens? Sun, 11 Nov 2018 22:00:00 +0000 Hey Checkers! First, a heartfelt thank you on this Remembrance Day to those who serve or have served to protect our freedoms. Adam kicks off this week's show with an update on the anti-vax article that was published then quickly removed by the Toronto Sun newspaper. Cristina's girlfriends inspire an update on beauty product claims where she explains industry laws and teaches us which claims to be leery of. Next, Darren continues his "Brief History…" series with a look at early life on Earth. Finally, Adam asks, "Would Donald Trump's many children, born to immigrant mothers, be US citizens if it weren't for birthright citizenship?"

]]> Hey Checkers! First, a heartfelt thank you on this Remembrance Day to those who serve or have served to protect our freedoms. Adam kicks off this week's show with an update on the anti-vax article that was published then quickly removed by the Toronto Sun newspaper. Cristina's girlfriends inspire an update on beauty product claims where she explains industry laws and teaches us which claims to be leery of. Next, Darren continues his "Brief History…" series with a look at early life on Earth. Finally, Adam asks, "Would Donald Trump's many children, born to immigrant mothers, be US citizens if it weren't for birthright citizenship?"

]]> 29:13 false 523 full TRC #522: Recent Anti-Vax Article + Errors In Textbooks with Barry Panas + Passwords Recent Anti-Vax Article + Errors In Textbooks with Barry Panas + Passwords Sat, 03 Nov 2018 15:30:00 +0000 Welcome to your weekly dose of TRC! Adam kicks things off by addressing a syndicated column filled with anti-vaccine misinformation and pseudoscience that was recently published in the Toronto Sun newspaper. "Physics Commando" Barry Panas schools us about errors in school textbooks after hearing a recent episode where Darren cites the Earth's mass. Finally, Pat drops a bombshell on the panel with a segment everyone should hear regarding passwords and how to find out if you've been compromised without even knowing it.

]]> Welcome to your weekly dose of TRC! Adam kicks things off by addressing a syndicated column filled with anti-vaccine misinformation and pseudoscience that was recently published in the Toronto Sun newspaper. "Physics Commando" Barry Panas schools us about errors in school textbooks after hearing a recent episode where Darren cites the Earth's mass. Finally, Pat drops a bombshell on the panel with a segment everyone should hear regarding passwords and how to find out if you've been compromised without even knowing it.

]]> 40:04 false 522 full TRC #521: Brief History Of Early Earth + Hoax Academic Papers + Does Exposing Kids To Alcohol Mitigate Dependence? Brief History Of Early Earth + Hoax Academic Papers + Does Exposing Kids To Alcohol Mitigate Dependence? Sat, 27 Oct 2018 20:30:00 +0000 This week, Darren goes back billions of years to give us a fascinating look at early Earth. Adam takes a deep dive into how recent academic journals in the field of "grievance studies" were successfully published despite being a hoax. After NBA star Lebron James raised some eyebrows when stating his 11 and 14 year olds drink wine, Cristina looks into whether there is any tangible evidence to support a well-held notion that exposing kids to alcohol helps mitigate alcohol-related harms and dependence as teens and adults.

]]> This week, Darren goes back billions of years to give us a fascinating look at early Earth. Adam takes a deep dive into how recent academic journals in the field of "grievance studies" were successfully published despite being a hoax. After NBA star Lebron James raised some eyebrows when stating his 11 and 14 year olds drink wine, Cristina looks into whether there is any tangible evidence to support a well-held notion that exposing kids to alcohol helps mitigate alcohol-related harms and dependence as teens and adults.

]]> 36:07 false 521 full TRC #520: Did We Get Banksied? & UN Climate Change Report + Did Taylor Swift Increase Voter Registration? Did We Get Banksied? & UN Climate Change Report + Did Taylor Swift Increase Voter Registration? Sat, 20 Oct 2018 16:00:06 +0000 Your weekly dose of fun and facts is here! We definitely had a lot of laughs taping the show this week. First, Producer Pat points his skeptical lens at the recent Banksy incident rocking the Art World to find out if Sotheby's really got pranked, or did we all just get Banksied? Darren brings the panel's mood way down with an overview of the bleak reality reported in the recent UN Climate Change Report. The panel shakes it off long enough for Adam to give us an objective analysis of whether the uptick in voter registration in the U.S. can be attributed to pop star Taylor Swift.

]]> Your weekly dose of fun and facts is here! We definitely had a lot of laughs taping the show this week. First, Producer Pat points his skeptical lens at the recent Banksy incident rocking the Art World to find out if Sotheby's really got pranked, or did we all just get Banksied? Darren brings the panel's mood way down with an overview of the bleak reality reported in the recent UN Climate Change Report. The panel shakes it off long enough for Adam to give us an objective analysis of whether the uptick in voter registration in the U.S. can be attributed to pop star Taylor Swift.

]]> 33:27 false 520 full TRC #519: Is Justin Trudeau Fidel Castro's Son? + O Cannabis + Book Review: The Big Picture Is Justin Trudeau Fidel Castro's Son? + O Cannabis + Book Review: The Big Picture Sun, 14 Oct 2018 23:00:00 +0000 This week, Adam looks into rumours that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is really the son of former Cuban Communist leader Fidel Castro. Cristina blazes through some myths and misconceptions around The Cannabis Act which legalizes the recreational use of cannabis in Canada as of October 17. Finally, Darren wraps up the show with a closer look at Sean Carroll's book, The Big Picture: On the Origins of Life, Meaning, and the Universe Itself.

]]> This week, Adam looks into rumours that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is really the son of former Cuban Communist leader Fidel Castro. Cristina blazes through some myths and misconceptions around The Cannabis Act which legalizes the recreational use of cannabis in Canada as of October 17. Finally, Darren wraps up the show with a closer look at Sean Carroll's book, The Big Picture: On the Origins of Life, Meaning, and the Universe Itself.

]]> 32:38 true 519 full TRC #518: Abortion Law In Canada + I Before E, Except After C? + Does Twitter Shadowban Users? Abortion Law In Canada + I Before E, Except After C? + Does Twitter Shadowban Users? Mon, 08 Oct 2018 21:30:00 +0000 Happy Canadian Thanksgiving, Checkers! We bring you another fun and fact-filled show to digest alongside that slice of pumpkin pie. First, Darren looks at the history of abortion laws in Canada after a listener points out that our collective perception on a previous show was false. Cristina ponders how useless the long-standing spelling rule, "I Before E, Except After C" actually is. Finally, Adam investigates whether Twitter is shadowbanning some users, as they have recently been publicly accused of doing.  

]]> Happy Canadian Thanksgiving, Checkers! We bring you another fun and fact-filled show to digest alongside that slice of pumpkin pie. First, Darren looks at the history of abortion laws in Canada after a listener points out that our collective perception on a previous show was false. Cristina ponders how useless the long-standing spelling rule, "I Before E, Except After C" actually is. Finally, Adam investigates whether Twitter is shadowbanning some users, as they have recently been publicly accused of doing.

]]> 29:01 false 518 full TRC #517: Science of Cooking With Dr. Stuart Farrimond + Name That: Spot The Fake + Flu Shot Timing Science of Cooking With Dr. Stuart Farrimond + Name That: Spot The Fake + Flu Shot Timing Sat, 29 Sep 2018 22:00:00 +0000 This week, the RC crew are stoked to have Dr. Stuart Farrimond on the show. A former medical doctor turned science and medical writer, educator, and author, Stuart uses one of our favourite comfort foods, 'Mac and Cheese', as a vehicle to debunk cooking myths. Pat trolls us with another game of 'Name That: Spot The Fake' edition resulting in some entertaining banter. Finally, Darren looks into flu shot timing, and asks whether you can get a flu shot too early?

]]> This week, the RC crew are stoked to have Dr. Stuart Farrimond on the show. A former medical doctor turned science and medical writer, educator, and author, Stuart uses one of our favourite comfort foods, 'Mac and Cheese', as a vehicle to debunk cooking myths. Pat trolls us with another game of 'Name That: Spot The Fake' edition resulting in some entertaining banter. Finally, Darren looks into flu shot timing, and asks whether you can get a flu shot too early?

]]> 41:48 false 517 full TRC #516: Fundamental Value Differences + Apple Ends Music Downloads? + Did Sony Release Fake MJ Songs? Fundamental Value Differences + Apple Ends Music Downloads? + Did Sony Release Fake MJ Songs? Sat, 22 Sep 2018 21:00:00 +0000 Happy Fall, Checkers! Darren is finally back where he belongs with The RC crew and kicks off the show asking whether fundamental value differences are as fundamental as they seem. Cristina tries to get to the bottom of rumours that suggest Apple will be ending MP3 music downloads on its iTunes platform in 2019. Finally, Adam looks into recent claims that Sony Music released "fake" Michael Jackson songs.

]]> Happy Fall, Checkers! Darren is finally back where he belongs with The RC crew and kicks off the show asking whether fundamental value differences are as fundamental as they seem. Cristina tries to get to the bottom of rumours that suggest Apple will be ending MP3 music downloads on its iTunes platform in 2019. Finally, Adam looks into recent claims that Sony Music released "fake" Michael Jackson songs.

]]> 32:36 false 516 full TRC #515: GOOP Lawsuit + Hot Dog Vs Bun Ratio Conspiracy? + Sex Ed + Sitcom Surprise GOOP Lawsuit + Hot Dog Vs Bun Ratio Conspiracy? + Sex Ed + Sitcom Surprise Sat, 15 Sep 2018 21:30:00 +0000 With Darren still away in Europe, the crew get sucked into a vortex of shenanigans when former beloved TRC co-host Elan Dubrofsky and guest Dina Xirlin stop by. Cristina kicks off the festivities with an update on a recent lawsuit against Gwyneth Paltrow's GOOP and its unfounded product claims. Adam investigates whether hot dog companies are colluding with bun companies to sell more of both products. Dina schools us on the Ontario Sex Ed Curriculum amidst the current controversy stirred by Ontario's new premier. Finally, Elan makes an earth-shattering discovery about 2 of his favourite old sitcoms.

]]> With Darren still away in Europe, the crew get sucked into a vortex of shenanigans when former beloved TRC co-host Elan Dubrofsky and guest Dina Xirlin stop by. Cristina kicks off the festivities with an update on a recent lawsuit against Gwyneth Paltrow's GOOP and its unfounded product claims. Adam investigates whether hot dog companies are colluding with bun companies to sell more of both products. Dina schools us on the Ontario Sex Ed Curriculum amidst the current controversy stirred by Ontario's new premier. Finally, Elan makes an earth-shattering discovery about 2 of his favourite old sitcoms.

]]> 28:39 false 515 full TRC #514: Flat Earth with Dr. Stuart Robbins Flat Earth with Dr. Stuart Robbins Sun, 09 Sep 2018 21:30:00 +0000 Darren is still in Europe and Adam is still trying to cobble together internet access in his new rural home.  Fear not, 5th Beatle and our favourite astronomer fills in. This week's show is dedicated to a single question from Checker, Mitchell, who asks: "are flat earthers for real?" Dr. Stuart Robbins tells us about the 'evidence' offered for a flat earth and the science that refutes it.

]]> Darren is still in Europe and Adam is still trying to cobble together internet access in his new rural home. Fear not, 5th Beatle and our favourite astronomer fills in. This week's show is dedicated to a single question from Checker, Mitchell, who asks: "are flat earthers for real?" Dr. Stuart Robbins tells us about the 'evidence' offered for a flat earth and the science that refutes it.

]]> 31:08 false 514 full TRC #513: Mashup: Boil Hot Or Cold Water? + Maple Water + Does Bottled Water Expire? Mashup: Boil Hot Or Cold Water? + Maple Water + Does Bottled Water Expire? Sun, 02 Sep 2018 18:30:00 +0000 With Darren away in Europe and Adam moving, Cristina takes the helm for a water themed mashup.  First, Darren asks: is it better to boil hot water or cold water? Next, Adam taps into health claims lauding the benefits of Maple Water.  Finally, Pat flushes out the truth behind why bottled water has an expiration date.

]]> With Darren away in Europe and Adam moving, Cristina takes the helm for a water themed mashup. First, Darren asks: is it better to boil hot water or cold water? Next, Adam taps into health claims lauding the benefits of Maple Water. Finally, Pat flushes out the truth behind why bottled water has an expiration date.

]]> 27:26 false 513 full TRC #512: Does Cough Medicine Work? + Mosquito Prevalence + Amelia Earhart Distress Signals Does Cough Medicine Work? + Mosquito Prevalence + Amelia Earhart Distress Signals Sat, 25 Aug 2018 20:30:00 +0000 This week, Cristina takes a hard look at the evidence behind cough medicine and whether it lives up to our 'hacking' expectations. Darren looks at what causes mosquito populations to flourish or shrink. Finally, Adam brings us another Amelia Earhart segment because this one just won't 'fly away'. (Too soon?) Welcome to another episode of TRC!

]]> This week, Cristina takes a hard look at the evidence behind cough medicine and whether it lives up to our 'hacking' expectations. Darren looks at what causes mosquito populations to flourish or shrink. Finally, Adam brings us another Amelia Earhart segment because this one just won't 'fly away'. (Too soon?) Welcome to another episode of TRC!

]]> 31:47 false 512 full TRC #511: Checker Mail Bag + Name That: Water Edition Checker Mail Bag + Name That: Water Edition Sat, 18 Aug 2018 20:00:00 +0000 On this week's show, we dip into TRC's mail bag and highlight some of your fun feedback and questions. Producer Pat rounds out the show with a slippery edition of everyone's favourite guessing game, 'Name That.' This week's theme is water.

]]> On this week's show, we dip into TRC's mail bag and highlight some of your fun feedback and questions. Producer Pat rounds out the show with a slippery edition of everyone's favourite guessing game, 'Name That.' This week's theme is water.

]]> 27:15 false 511 full TRC #510: Alex Jones & Free Speech + Winnie The Pooh China Ban? + Kombucha Health Claims Alex Jones & Free Speech + Winnie The Pooh China Ban? + Kombucha Health Claims Sun, 12 Aug 2018 19:30:00 +0000 This week, Darren asks if there's really a conspiracy to keep a conspiracy theorist from his right to free speech in light of the recent Alex Jones ban. Next up, Adam investigates whether China blacklisted the new "Christopher Robin" film in retaliation over internet memes comparing Chinese President Xi Jinping to Winnie the Pooh. Cristina rounds out the show by raining on your Kombucha parade.

]]> This week, Darren asks if there's really a conspiracy to keep a conspiracy theorist from his right to free speech in light of the recent Alex Jones ban. Next up, Adam investigates whether China blacklisted the new "Christopher Robin" film in retaliation over internet memes comparing Chinese President Xi Jinping to Winnie the Pooh. Cristina rounds out the show by raining on your Kombucha parade.

]]> 27:54 false 510 full TRC #509: Mashup: Food Labelling + Trisodium Phosphate In Cereal? + What Is Organic? Mashup: Food Labelling + Trisodium Phosphate In Cereal? + What Is Organic? Sun, 05 Aug 2018 19:00:00 +0000 This week Producer Pat plays DJ bringing you a mashup show all about food labels.  First Cristina bites into a segment about misleading product claims and food labeling. Next, Pat explores a viral video about trisodium phosphate in kid's cereal. Lastly, Darren checks into what the organic label really means.

]]> This week Producer Pat plays DJ bringing you a mashup show all about food labels. First Cristina bites into a segment about misleading product claims and food labeling. Next, Pat explores a viral video about trisodium phosphate in kid's cereal. Lastly, Darren checks into what the organic label really means.

]]> 31:07 false 509 full TRC #508: Politicians Use Songs Without Permission? + Plastic Straws and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch + Wear Sunscreen Politicians Use Songs Without Permission? + Plastic Straws and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch + Wear Sunscreen Sun, 29 Jul 2018 18:30:00 +0000 Cristina looks into whether politicians can use a song without first obtaining the artist's permission.  The answer may surprise you. Next, Adam looks into the great Pacific garbage patch and whether banning plastic straws is the answer. Lastly, Darren brings you his important triennial PSA on why you should always wear sunscreen.

]]> Cristina looks into whether politicians can use a song without first obtaining the artist's permission. The answer may surprise you. Next, Adam looks into the great Pacific garbage patch and whether banning plastic straws is the answer. Lastly, Darren brings you his important triennial PSA on why you should always wear sunscreen.

]]> 32:38 false 508 full TRC #507: Review: Stumbling On Happiness + 5MWaA: Lagrangian Points + Ingesting Collagen Has Skin Benefits? Review: Stumbling On Happiness + 5MWaA: Lagrangian Points + Ingesting Collagen Has Skin Benefits? Sun, 22 Jul 2018 04:30:00 +0000 Darren gives us his review of Daniel Gilbert's book 'Stumbling On Happiness'.  Next, we offer up another episode of a new crossover podcast with Stuart Robbins called "5 minutes with an astronomer." In this episode Stuart tackles Lagrangian points.  Last, Cristina looks into the evidence for claims that ingesting collagen has benefits for your skin.

]]> Darren gives us his review of Daniel Gilbert's book 'Stumbling On Happiness'. Next, we offer up another episode of a new crossover podcast with Stuart Robbins called "5 minutes with an astronomer." In this episode Stuart tackles Lagrangian points. Last, Cristina looks into the evidence for claims that ingesting collagen has benefits for your skin.

]]> 23:46 false 507 full TRC #506: Open Plane Door Mid Flight? + 5MWaA: Parallax + The U.S Is 10th Most Dangerous Country For Women? Open Plane Door Mid Flight? + 5MWaA: Parallax + The U.S Is 10th Most Dangerous Country For Women? Sat, 14 Jul 2018 12:48:21 +0000 First Pat looks into recent news about Michael Rapaport's mile high heroics and asks "could someone really open an airplane door mid flight?" Next the crew introduces a new crossover podcast with Stuart Robbins called "5 minutes with an astronomer" with an episode about parallax. Subscribe and leave a review!  Last, Adam looks into headlines that the United States is the 10th most dangerous country to be a woman.

]]> First Pat looks into recent news about Michael Rapaport's mile high heroics and asks "could someone really open an airplane door mid flight?" Next the crew introduces a new crossover podcast with Stuart Robbins called "5 minutes with an astronomer" with an episode about parallax. Subscribe and leave a review! Last, Adam looks into headlines that the United States is the 10th most dangerous country to be a woman.

]]> 28:31 false 506 full TRC #505: Memory Palaces + Donating Used Clothing Memory Palaces + Donating Used Clothing Sat, 07 Jul 2018 14:02:20 +0000 While Pat and Cristina enjoy some vacation time, Darren and Adam take the helm and welcome back special guest, Professor Jim Davies. Jim joins the dynamic duo to talk about the 'Memory Palace', an imaginary location in your mind where one can store mnemonic images. Next up, Darren digs into used clothing donation stats and ponders the best strategy when it's time to part with those MC Hammer pants you've been keeping buried in your closet.

]]> While Pat and Cristina enjoy some vacation time, Darren and Adam take the helm and welcome back special guest, Professor Jim Davies. Jim joins the dynamic duo to talk about the 'Memory Palace', an imaginary location in your mind where one can store mnemonic images. Next up, Darren digs into used clothing donation stats and ponders the best strategy when it's time to part with those MC Hammer pants you've been keeping buried in your closet.

]]> 29:16 false 505 full TRC #504: IV Therapy + Baby Foreskin Beauty Cream? + Adult & Youth Correctional Stats IV Therapy + Baby Foreskin Beauty Cream? + Adult & Youth Correctional Stats Sat, 30 Jun 2018 17:45:08 +0000 Adam kicks off this week's show by looking into the trend of IV Therapy when used outside of legit medical procedures. Cristina goes head first down a rabbit hole after hearing that a beauty cream Oprah endorses may contain baby foreskin in its formulation. Finally, Darren digs into the stats behind a recent headline claiming that nearly half of Canada's incarcerated youth are Indigenous. Wishing our Canadian and U.S. Checkers a safe and happy Canada Day & July 4th holiday!

]]> Adam kicks off this week's show by looking into the trend of IV Therapy when used outside of legit medical procedures. Cristina goes head first down a rabbit hole after hearing that a beauty cream Oprah endorses may contain baby foreskin in its formulation. Finally, Darren digs into the stats behind a recent headline claiming that nearly half of Canada's incarcerated youth are Indigenous. Wishing our Canadian and U.S. Checkers a safe and happy Canada Day & July 4th holiday!

]]> 26:50 false 504 full TRC #503: Implicit Bias Training + Mexican World Cup Fans Cause Earthquake? + Saudi Arabia Drone Fashion Show? Implicit Bias Training + Mexican World Cup Fans Cause Earthquake? + Saudi Arabia Drone Fashion Show? Mon, 25 Jun 2018 21:10:27 +0000 Happy Summer Solstice, Checkers! This week, Darren explores whether implicit bias training really works in the wake of Starbucks recently closing their stores to provide racial-bias training to its employees. Cristina takes time out of watching the World Cup to check a claim that Mexican fans triggered an earthquake when celebrating Mexico's victory over defending champion Germany. Finally, Adam looks into the validity of a story suggesting a Saudi Arabian fashion show used drones to model clothes on the catwalk because women are forbidden to model.

]]> Happy Summer Solstice, Checkers! This week, Darren explores whether implicit bias training really works in the wake of Starbucks recently closing their stores to provide racial-bias training to its employees. Cristina takes time out of watching the World Cup to check a claim that Mexican fans triggered an earthquake when celebrating Mexico's victory over defending champion Germany. Finally, Adam looks into the validity of a story suggesting a Saudi Arabian fashion show used drones to model clothes on the catwalk because women are forbidden to model.

]]> 24:26 false 503 full TRC #502: Mashup: Dunning-Kruger Effect + Matilda Effect + McGurk Effect Mashup: Dunning-Kruger Effect + Matilda Effect + McGurk Effect Sat, 16 Jun 2018 15:34:09 +0000 A mashup episode all about 'effects'.  Darren discusses the sometimes misunderstood cognitive bias called the Dunning-Kruger Effect. Inspired by the movie Hidden Figures, Cristina digs into the Matilda Effect and highlights some groundbreaking women scientists who were famously and shamelessly snubbed for their achievements. Pat explains an illusion known as the McGurk Effect which demonstrates the interaction between hearing and vision in speech perception.

]]> A mashup episode all about 'effects'. Darren discusses the sometimes misunderstood cognitive bias called the Dunning-Kruger Effect. Inspired by the movie Hidden Figures, Cristina digs into the Matilda Effect and highlights some groundbreaking women scientists who were famously and shamelessly snubbed for their achievements. Pat explains an illusion known as the McGurk Effect which demonstrates the interaction between hearing and vision in speech perception.

]]> 27:02 false 502 full TRC #501: Mail Bag + Einstein Rejection Letter + Grapefruit and Drugs Don't Mix? + U.S. Lost 1500 Migrant Children? Mail Bag + Einstein Rejection Letter + Grapefruit and Drugs Don't Mix? + U.S. Lost 1500 Migrant Children? Sat, 09 Jun 2018 20:00:00 +0000 With all the hoopla of episode 500 done, the TRC crew gets back to business.  First we reach into our mailbag for a couple of listener's letters. Next Darren looks into the authenticity of a rejection letter Albert Einstein supposedly received from the University of Bern. Cristina asks can grapefruit juice be lethal when mixed with drugs? Lastly Adam checks out recent headlines that the U.S Government lost 1,500 immigrant children.

]]> With all the hoopla of episode 500 done, the TRC crew gets back to business. First we reach into our mailbag for a couple of listener's letters. Next Darren looks into the authenticity of a rejection letter Albert Einstein supposedly received from the University of Bern. Cristina asks can grapefruit juice be lethal when mixed with drugs? Lastly Adam checks out recent headlines that the U.S Government lost 1,500 immigrant children.

]]> 32:17 false 501 full TRC #500: Segments That Were True + Name That: Spot The Fake Segments That Were True + Name That: Spot The Fake Fri, 25 May 2018 19:00:00 +0000 The Reality Check celebrates its 500th episode in style! First the crew looks back on segment topics that sounded fishy but actually turned out to be true.  Next, Pat tests the gang's ability to 'spot the fake' in another addition of everybody's favourite mostly guessing game. Lastly, we reflect on 500 episodes. We couldn't have done it without you, dear listeners. Well, we could have but it probably would have been a little weird and certainly not as much fun.

]]> The Reality Check celebrates its 500th episode in style! First the crew looks back on segment topics that sounded fishy but actually turned out to be true. Next, Pat tests the gang's ability to 'spot the fake' in another addition of everybody's favourite mostly guessing game. Lastly, we reflect on 500 episodes. We couldn't have done it without you, dear listeners. Well, we could have but it probably would have been a little weird and certainly not as much fun.

]]> 38:46 false 500 full TRC #499: Yanny vs Laurel + Video Compression ft Dr. Stuart Robbins + Do You Have Genghis Khan DNA? Yanny vs Laurel + Video Compression ft Dr. Stuart Robbins + Do You Have Genghis Khan DNA? Sat, 19 May 2018 19:30:00 +0000 This week, the crew (minus Adam) come at you live from TRC Studio in Toronto! Cristina takes a poll of Checkers ahead of taping the show to see who is on Team Yanny or Laurel then breaks down what experts are saying about the "audio illusion" currently dividing the internet. Dr. Stuart Robbins takes a fascinating deep dive into HD, video and image compression and how it relates to conspiracies. Finally, Darren looks into a long-standing claim that 5% of the world is related to Genghis Khan.

]]> This week, the crew (minus Adam) come at you live from TRC Studio in Toronto! Cristina takes a poll of Checkers ahead of taping the show to see who is on Team Yanny or Laurel then breaks down what experts are saying about the "audio illusion" currently dividing the internet. Dr. Stuart Robbins takes a fascinating deep dive into HD, video and image compression and how it relates to conspiracies. Finally, Darren looks into a long-standing claim that 5% of the world is related to Genghis Khan.

]]> 36:35 false 499 full TRC #498: Bulverism Fallacy + Dr. Oz + Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Bulverism Fallacy + Dr. Oz + Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Sat, 12 May 2018 23:30:00 +0000 Another fact-filled show is here! First, Darren digs into his skeptical toolbox to bring us an interesting overview of Bulverism Fallacy. But that's probably because he wants you to think better to act better. Adam looks closely at everyone's favourite peddler of pseudoscience Dr. Oz and asks, how often is he pretty much full of it? Finally, Cristina explores the research into delayed onset muscle soreness and tries to answer why we feel sore 2 days after exercise.

]]> Another fact-filled show is here! First, Darren digs into his skeptical toolbox to bring us an interesting overview of Bulverism Fallacy. But that's probably because he wants you to think better to act better. Adam looks closely at everyone's favourite peddler of pseudoscience Dr. Oz and asks, how often is he pretty much full of it? Finally, Cristina explores the research into delayed onset muscle soreness and tries to answer why we feel sore 2 days after exercise.

]]> 30:31 false 498 full TRC #497: Mosquitoes Choosy Biters? + Humboldt: Value Of Life + Streisand's Cloned Dogs Mosquitoes Choosy Biters? + Humboldt: Value Of Life + Streisand's Cloned Dogs Sun, 06 May 2018 19:30:00 +0000 Spring is finally here, Checkers! Does it seem like you get bitten by mosquitoes way more than others around you? Cristina explores whether the pesky bloodsuckers are choosy about who they bite. Next, Darren ponders the sensitive topic of life and death and offers suggestions of questions to ask ourselves when tragedy strikes. Lastly, Adam looks into Barbra Streisand's supposedly cloned dogs and asks what's involved in cloning pets.  

]]> Spring is finally here, Checkers! Does it seem like you get bitten by mosquitoes way more than others around you? Cristina explores whether the pesky bloodsuckers are choosy about who they bite. Next, Darren ponders the sensitive topic of life and death and offers suggestions of questions to ask ourselves when tragedy strikes. Lastly, Adam looks into Barbra Streisand's supposedly cloned dogs and asks what's involved in cloning pets.

]]> 31:11 true 497 full TRC #496: Snake Bites + Are Nature Documentaries Fake? + Vasectomies Snake Bites + Are Nature Documentaries Fake? + Vasectomies Sat, 28 Apr 2018 22:00:00 +0000 A fact-astic new episode of TRC is here! First, Darren doles out some surprising stats about snake bite deaths. Next, Cristina digs into how nature documentaries are filmed to determine what's real and what's fake. Lastly, Adam talks about his recent experience getting a vasectomy and what the medical procedure is, and isn't.

]]> A fact-astic new episode of TRC is here! First, Darren doles out some surprising stats about snake bite deaths. Next, Cristina digs into how nature documentaries are filmed to determine what's real and what's fake. Lastly, Adam talks about his recent experience getting a vasectomy and what the medical procedure is, and isn't.

]]> 31:34 false 496 full TRC #495: Treason Tags + The Atacama Mummified Skeleton + Godwin's Law Treason Tags + The Atacama Mummified Skeleton + Godwin's Law Sun, 22 Apr 2018 22:30:00 +0000 Hey, Checkers, the TRC crew is back with a mixed bag of facts! First, Pat brings us an entertaining segment after investigating an image macro dubbed 'treason tags' making the rounds on social media. Next, Adam takes a second look at the claim that the Atacama Mummified Skeleton found in Chile was not of this world. Lastly, Darren goes down a rabbit hole to school us on Godwin's Law.  

]]> Hey, Checkers, the TRC crew is back with a mixed bag of facts! First, Pat brings us an entertaining segment after investigating an image macro dubbed 'treason tags' making the rounds on social media. Next, Adam takes a second look at the claim that the Atacama Mummified Skeleton found in Chile was not of this world. Lastly, Darren goes down a rabbit hole to school us on Godwin's Law.

]]> 24:37 false 495 full TRC #494: Talking Clean Meat With Paul Shapiro Talking Clean Meat With Paul Shapiro Sun, 15 Apr 2018 14:00:00 +0000 This week's show is dedicated to an interview with author and animal protection advocate Paul Shapiro. Adam and Darren talk with Paul about cellular agriculture and his Washington Post bestseller book 'Clean Meat: How Growing Meat Without Animals Will Revolutionize Dinner and the World.'

]]> This week's show is dedicated to an interview with author and animal protection advocate Paul Shapiro. Adam and Darren talk with Paul about cellular agriculture and his Washington Post bestseller book 'Clean Meat: How Growing Meat Without Animals Will Revolutionize Dinner and the World.'

]]> 30:46 false 494 full TRC #493: Cadbury's War On Easter? + Jordan Peterson + Lebron Gained 7lbs During A Game? Cadbury's War On Easter? + Jordan Peterson + Lebron Gained 7lbs During A Game? Sun, 08 Apr 2018 13:00:00 +0000 This week, Adam looks into a viral post suggesting that confectionery company Cadbury is waging war on Easter. Next Darren takes a deep dive into Jordan Peterson and his book '12 Rules For Life'. Lastly Cristina checks into headlines suggesting that Lebron James gained 7 pounds during a single basketball game. Enjoy!

]]> This week, Adam looks into a viral post suggesting that confectionery company Cadbury is waging war on Easter. Next Darren takes a deep dive into Jordan Peterson and his book '12 Rules For Life'. Lastly Cristina checks into headlines suggesting that Lebron James gained 7 pounds during a single basketball game. Enjoy!

]]> 39:44 false 493 full TRC #492: Gun Violence In Canada Increasing? + Name That: 'Easter' + Fake Passport Website Gun Violence In Canada Increasing? + Name That: 'Easter' + Fake Passport Website Sun, 01 Apr 2018 18:30:00 +0000 Happy Spring Equinox, Checkers! This week, Adam questions whether gun violence in Canada is really increasing by targeting the facts. Pat challenges the crew to an Easter-ish version of everybody's favourite mostly guessing game. Lastly, Darren warns us about an online passport service taking advantage of unsuspecting Canadians.

]]> Happy Spring Equinox, Checkers! This week, Adam questions whether gun violence in Canada is really increasing by targeting the facts. Pat challenges the crew to an Easter-ish version of everybody's favourite mostly guessing game. Lastly, Darren warns us about an online passport service taking advantage of unsuspecting Canadians.

]]> 32:49 false 492 full TRC #491: Hawaiian Islands + Euthanasia Drugs In Dog Food + Amelia Earhart's Bones Hawaiian Islands + Euthanasia Drugs In Dog Food + Amelia Earhart's Bones Sun, 25 Mar 2018 13:30:00 +0000 Aloha Checkers! The whole crew is here for a brand new show. Back from a trip to Hawaii, Darren discusses how the islands that make up the State came to be. Cristina, once again, looks into the question: are euthanasia drugs showing up in dog food? Lastly, Adam looks into some recent headlines claiming that Amelia Earhart's bones have been found.

]]> Aloha Checkers! The whole crew is here for a brand new show. Back from a trip to Hawaii, Darren discusses how the islands that make up the State came to be. Cristina, once again, looks into the question: are euthanasia drugs showing up in dog food? Lastly, Adam looks into some recent headlines claiming that Amelia Earhart's bones have been found.

]]> 28:27 false 491 full TRC #490: Mashup: Brian Tomasik on Wild Animal Suffering Mashup: Brian Tomasik on Wild Animal Suffering Sat, 17 Mar 2018 18:30:00 +0000 Brian Tomasik from Reducing-Suffering.org discusses ethics, animal welfare and far-future scenarios from a suffering-focused perspective. Here is his interview from 2015 presented in its entirety for the first time. This was one of the more controversial interviews on TRC and generated quite a bit of conversation.  As always, we're interested to hear what you think. The crew will be back next week with a freshly minted show. Enjoy!

]]> Brian Tomasik from Reducing-Suffering.org discusses ethics, animal welfare and far-future scenarios from a suffering-focused perspective. Here is his interview from 2015 presented in its entirety for the first time. This was one of the more controversial interviews on TRC and generated quite a bit of conversation. As always, we're interested to hear what you think. The crew will be back next week with a freshly minted show. Enjoy!

]]> 46:41 false 490 full TRC #489: Busting History Myths With Professor Buzzkill Busting History Myths With Professor Buzzkill Sat, 03 Mar 2018 19:30:00 +0000 Did Mussolini make the trains run on time? Was Rosa Parks just 'too tired' to give up her seat? The crew is off this week so Cristina and Pat seize the opportunity to chat with fellow podcaster, author and historian extraordinaire Professor Buzzkill, aka Joseph Coohill. Joe schools us on history myths, 'good' evidence, and some interesting topics he's covered on Professor Buzzkill: History 101.

]]> Did Mussolini make the trains run on time? Was Rosa Parks just 'too tired' to give up her seat? The crew is off this week so Cristina and Pat seize the opportunity to chat with fellow podcaster, author and historian extraordinaire Professor Buzzkill, aka Joseph Coohill. Joe schools us on history myths, 'good' evidence, and some interesting topics he's covered on Professor Buzzkill: History 101.

]]> 20:46 false 489 full TRC #488: Urine-Based Test For Sex Of Fetus + How Many Neurons? Urine-Based Test For Sex Of Fetus + How Many Neurons? Sat, 24 Feb 2018 16:30:00 +0000 The crew has the week off but still brings you a new fact-filled TRC! Cristina and Pat chat with Ryan Armstrong from Post-Truth Health and Bad Science Watch. He tells us whether urine-based tests coming to Canada can determine the sex of a fetus during pregnancy. Next Darren delivers a promised follow-up to his segment about neurons asking how many neurons does the human brain have?

]]> The crew has the week off but still brings you a new fact-filled TRC! Cristina and Pat chat with Ryan Armstrong from Post-Truth Health and Bad Science Watch. He tells us whether urine-based tests coming to Canada can determine the sex of a fetus during pregnancy. Next Darren delivers a promised follow-up to his segment about neurons asking how many neurons does the human brain have?

]]> 22:33 false 488 full TRC #487: Solar Eclipse Fallout + The Bicameral Mind + eHarmony Backed By Science? Solar Eclipse Fallout + The Bicameral Mind + eHarmony Backed By Science? Sat, 17 Feb 2018 23:00:00 +0000 This week, Darren looks into the potential downside of watching a solar eclipse and asks, 'Is it worth it?' Adam gets all 'Darren' on us with an interesting segment about consciousness and the bicameral mind. Lastly, Cristina investigates whether an online dating site has the evidence to back up their claims that they use science to match people.

]]> This week, Darren looks into the potential downside of watching a solar eclipse and asks, 'Is it worth it?' Adam gets all 'Darren' on us with an interesting segment about consciousness and the bicameral mind. Lastly, Cristina investigates whether an online dating site has the evidence to back up their claims that they use science to match people.

]]> 30:59 false 487 full TRC #486: Valentine's Day Myths + Name That: V-Day Edition + The Heart Valentine's Day Myths + Name That: V-Day Edition + The Heart Sun, 11 Feb 2018 17:30:00 +0000 Another theme-filled show coming at you! First, Cristina combs through widely-held Valentine's Day myths to find out what's fact and what's fiction. Pat challenges the panel with another game of Name That: V-Day Edition. Finally, Darren rounds out the show with a 'heartfelt' segment about the amazing organ behind Valentine's Day.

]]> Another theme-filled show coming at you! First, Cristina combs through widely-held Valentine's Day myths to find out what's fact and what's fiction. Pat challenges the panel with another game of Name That: V-Day Edition. Finally, Darren rounds out the show with a 'heartfelt' segment about the amazing organ behind Valentine's Day.

]]> 26:25 false 486 full TRC #485: Neurons + YouTube Copyright Claims + Why Does February Only Have 28 Days? Neurons + YouTube Copyright Claims + Why Does February Only Have 28 Days? Sat, 03 Feb 2018 21:00:00 +0000 Another week, another great episode of TRC! On this week's show, Darren follows his impulses and takes a deep dive on neurons. Adam looks into YouTube's content ID system to find out why a video of white noise could possibly set off a copyright claim. Finally, Cristina explains the real reason that February is the shortest month of the year.

]]> Another week, another great episode of TRC! On this week's show, Darren follows his impulses and takes a deep dive on neurons. Adam looks into YouTube's content ID system to find out why a video of white noise could possibly set off a copyright claim. Finally, Cristina explains the real reason that February is the shortest month of the year.

]]> 33:19 false 485 full TRC #484: Contact Lenses + Vegetarianism Rates + Plastic vs Reusable Bags Contact Lenses + Vegetarianism Rates + Plastic vs Reusable Bags Sun, 28 Jan 2018 19:30:00 +0000 After a recent run-in with a rogue contact lens Cristina asks, what would happen if you never took your contacts out? Darren looks at the rates of vegetarianism and what the statistics really mean. Finally, Adam breaks downs how many times you need to use reusable bags to offset the use of plastic ones.

]]> After a recent run-in with a rogue contact lens Cristina asks, what would happen if you never took your contacts out? Darren looks at the rates of vegetarianism and what the statistics really mean. Finally, Adam breaks downs how many times you need to use reusable bags to offset the use of plastic ones.

]]> 37:05 false 484 full TRC #483: Mailbag + Raw Water + Do Bears Hibernate? Mailbag + Raw Water + Do Bears Hibernate? Sat, 20 Jan 2018 20:30:00 +0000 The Fab Four is back this week! Adam kicks off the show with some interesting listener email. Cristina dives into the latest raw water fad to bring you the raw facts. Finally, Darren ponders whether bears really hibernate.

]]> The Fab Four is back this week! Adam kicks off the show with some interesting listener email. Cristina dives into the latest raw water fad to bring you the raw facts. Finally, Darren ponders whether bears really hibernate.

]]> 26:50 false 483 full TRC #482: Coffee Enemas + The Physics Of Curling + Did The CDC Ban 7 Words? Coffee Enemas + The Physics Of Curling + Did The CDC Ban 7 Words? Sat, 13 Jan 2018 17:00:00 +0000 With Darren away this week, the crew is joined by our favourite "physics commando" Barry Panas. First, Cristina looks into the latest 'wellness' gadget that Gwyneth Paltrow's GOOP is peddling. Spoiler alert: it involves an orifice. Next, Barry takes on a question from Producer Pat about how much sweeping really affects the game of curling. Finally, Adam looks into whether the Trump administration really did ban the CDC from using 7 words.

]]> With Darren away this week, the crew is joined by our favourite "physics commando" Barry Panas. First, Cristina looks into the latest 'wellness' gadget that Gwyneth Paltrow's GOOP is peddling. Spoiler alert: it involves an orifice. Next, Barry takes on a question from Producer Pat about how much sweeping really affects the game of curling. Finally, Adam looks into whether the Trump administration really did ban the CDC from using 7 words.

]]> 31:15 false 482 full TRC #481: Fave Segments of 2017 + Name That: Year In Review + Annual Predictions Fave Segments of 2017 + Name That: Year In Review + Annual Predictions Sat, 06 Jan 2018 21:30:00 +0000 The TRC crew is back to usher in the New Year with a fun-filled show! First, we look back at our favourite and most surprising segments from 2017. Next, Pat challenges the panel with a year in review game of 'Name That'. Lastly, Adam revisits the gang's 'predictions' from last year and we set aside logic yet again to guess what might happen in 2018.

]]> The TRC crew is back to usher in the New Year with a fun-filled show! First, we look back at our favourite and most surprising segments from 2017. Next, Pat challenges the panel with a year in review game of 'Name That'. Lastly, Adam revisits the gang's 'predictions' from last year and we set aside logic yet again to guess what might happen in 2018.

]]> 46:12 false 481 full TRC #480: Aluminum Christmas Trees + Habitable Zones + Baby, It's Cold Outside Aluminum Christmas Trees + Habitable Zones + Baby, It's Cold Outside Thu, 28 Dec 2017 22:00:00 +0000 With Cristina out sick this week, our favourite astronomer Stuart Robbins joins the panel. First Adam looks into aluminum Christmas trees and whether or not 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' is to blame for their demise. Next, Stuart gives us a long promised overview of habitable zones. Lastly, Darren takes a look into a couple of interpretations of the lyrics for 'Baby, It's Cold Outside'.

]]> With Cristina out sick this week, our favourite astronomer Stuart Robbins joins the panel. First Adam looks into aluminum Christmas trees and whether or not 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' is to blame for their demise. Next, Stuart gives us a long promised overview of habitable zones. Lastly, Darren takes a look into a couple of interpretations of the lyrics for 'Baby, It's Cold Outside'.

]]> 39:52 false 480 full TRC #479: Dowsing + Violence Decreasing? + #1 Restaurant Fake? Dowsing + Violence Decreasing? + #1 Restaurant Fake? Sun, 17 Dec 2017 21:54:38 +0000 On this week's TRC, Cristina looks into whether the City of Ottawa is really using dowsing to locate water. Next, Adam checks into a study that seems to contradict Steven Pinker's "The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined". Lastly, Darren asks: did a fake restaurant in London reach #1 rated on Trip Advisor?

]]> On this week's TRC, Cristina looks into whether the City of Ottawa is really using dowsing to locate water. Next, Adam checks into a study that seems to contradict Steven Pinker's "The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined". Lastly, Darren asks: did a fake restaurant in London reach #1 rated on Trip Advisor?

]]> 30:23 false 479 full TRC #478: Mashup: Skeptical Newlywed Game + Ghost Weddings Mashup: Skeptical Newlywed Game + Ghost Weddings Sat, 09 Dec 2017 19:58:15 +0000 While the crew takes the week off in honour of Adam's nuptials, Producer Pat brings you a wedding-themed mashup episode! First, Adam plays game show host during a skeptical (and highly entertaining) version of the newlywed game featuring special guests Elan and Dina.  Next, Darren gives us a spirited segment looking into whether people in China are stealing corpses for ghost weddings.

]]> While the crew takes the week off in honour of Adam's nuptials, Producer Pat brings you a wedding-themed mashup episode! First, Adam plays game show host during a skeptical (and highly entertaining) version of the newlywed game featuring special guests Elan and Dina. Next, Darren gives us a spirited segment looking into whether people in China are stealing corpses for ghost weddings.

]]> 27:26 false 478 full TRC #477: Wedding Night Sex? + Game Farm Photography + Effective Giving Wedding Night Sex? + Game Farm Photography + Effective Giving Sat, 02 Dec 2017 21:55:37 +0000 On this week's show, freshly married Adam looks into how many people actually have sex on their wedding night. Cristina explores the world of wildlife photography and finds out it isn't what it seems. Finally, 'tis the season for Darren to revisit charitable giving and arm us with effective donating tips.

]]> On this week's show, freshly married Adam looks into how many people actually have sex on their wedding night. Cristina explores the world of wildlife photography and finds out it isn't what it seems. Finally, 'tis the season for Darren to revisit charitable giving and arm us with effective donating tips.

]]> 29:35 false 477 full TRC #476: MAGA Transformers Toy? + Name That: Spot The Fake + Tilapia and Omega-6 MAGA Transformers Toy? + Name That: Spot The Fake + Tilapia and Omega-6 Sat, 25 Nov 2017 21:16:18 +0000 On this week's show, Adam looks into whether a recently released Transformers toy contains a Pro-Trump message. The gang has a ton of fun playing Producer Pat's game of Name That: Spot the Fake Fact. Darren checks into headlines suggesting that eating tilapia may be no better for you than bacon, hamburgers or doughnuts.

]]> On this week's show, Adam looks into whether a recently released Transformers toy contains a Pro-Trump message. The gang has a ton of fun playing Producer Pat's game of Name That: Spot the Fake Fact. Darren checks into headlines suggesting that eating tilapia may be no better for you than bacon, hamburgers or doughnuts.

]]> 29:26 false 476 full TRC #475: Age Of Consent + Elections Signs + 'Allah' Found At Viking Burial Site? Age Of Consent + Elections Signs + 'Allah' Found At Viking Burial Site? Sun, 19 Nov 2017 18:29:55 +0000 Given the troubling sexual harassment and assault allegations in the news involving minors, Darren takes a look at age of consent laws worldwide. Cristina fields a Checker's question regarding whether election campaign signs have any measurable impact on voter share. Finally, Adam digs into claims that Arabic characters spelling "Allah" are woven into ancient Viking funeral costumes.

]]> Given the troubling sexual harassment and assault allegations in the news involving minors, Darren takes a look at age of consent laws worldwide. Cristina fields a Checker's question regarding whether election campaign signs have any measurable impact on voter share. Finally, Adam digs into claims that Arabic characters spelling "Allah" are woven into ancient Viking funeral costumes.

]]> 30:44 false 475 full TRC #474: Buffett Challenge: Hedge Vs Index Funds + Allergy Doc Dave Stukus Pt. 2 Buffett Challenge: Hedge Vs Index Funds + Allergy Doc Dave Stukus Pt. 2 Sat, 11 Nov 2017 19:36:00 +0000 Darren digs into Warren Buffett's challenge where he bet $1 million that a portfolio of hedge funds couldn't beat the S&P 500 Index fund over a ten year period. So...did it? Cristina and Pat bring you part 2 of a great chat with Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Specialist Dr. Dave Stukus who schools us on the flu shot and answers more of your questions.

]]> Darren digs into Warren Buffett's challenge where he bet $1 million that a portfolio of hedge funds couldn't beat the S&P 500 Index fund over a ten year period. So...did it? Cristina and Pat bring you part 2 of a great chat with Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Specialist Dr. Dave Stukus who schools us on the flu shot and answers more of your questions.

]]> 25:07 false 474 full TRC #473: Does Sugar Cause Diabetes? + Allergy Doc Dave Stukus Pt. 1 + SGEM Hang With Dr. Jen Gunter Does Sugar Cause Diabetes? + Allergy Doc Dave Stukus Pt. 1 + SGEM Hang With Dr. Jen Gunter Sat, 04 Nov 2017 14:12:50 +0000 Come for the Science, stay for the FUN! On this week's show, Adam looks at the leading causes of diabetes after a listener calls Darren out on his joke linking sugar to the disease. Cristina and Pat bring you part 1 of a great chat with Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Specialist Dr. Dave Stukus who answers listener's burning questions. Finally, Cristina and Pat hang with Dr. Ken Milne, host of Skeptic's Guide to Emergency Medicine, and OB-GYN and master GOOP Debunker, Dr. Jen Gunter of Wielding The Lasso Of Truth.

]]> Come for the Science, stay for the FUN! On this week's show, Adam looks at the leading causes of diabetes after a listener calls Darren out on his joke linking sugar to the disease. Cristina and Pat bring you part 1 of a great chat with Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Specialist Dr. Dave Stukus who answers listener's burning questions. Finally, Cristina and Pat hang with Dr. Ken Milne, host of Skeptic's Guide to Emergency Medicine, and OB-GYN and master GOOP Debunker, Dr. Jen Gunter of Wielding The Lasso Of Truth.

]]> 30:12 false 473 full TRC #472: Blue Moonlight In Movies? + Halloween Myths + Fake Melania Trump? Blue Moonlight In Movies? + Halloween Myths + Fake Melania Trump? Fri, 27 Oct 2017 20:35:25 +0000 On this week's show, Darren wonders: why do filmmakers colour grade moonlight to be blue? Next, Cristina explores Halloween folklore vs Halloween facts.  Lastly, Adam asks: is there a Melania Trump double or doppelganger out there pretending to be her at press events?

]]> On this week's show, Darren wonders: why do filmmakers colour grade moonlight to be blue? Next, Cristina explores Halloween folklore vs Halloween facts. Lastly, Adam asks: is there a Melania Trump double or doppelganger out there pretending to be her at press events?

]]> 26:43 false 472 full TRC #471: McGurk Effect + Britt Wray & Rise Of The Necrofauna 2 + Sharks Vs Vending Machines McGurk Effect + Britt Wray & Rise Of The Necrofauna 2 + Sharks Vs Vending Machines Fri, 20 Oct 2017 06:21:11 +0000 On this week's show, Pat explains an illusion known as the McGurk Effect which demonstrates the interaction between hearing and vision in speech perception. We bring you part two of Darren and Adam's discussion with author Britt Wray about her book 'Rise Of The Necrofauna.' Cristina checks into the clickbait headline 'you're more likely to be killed by a vending machine than a shark.'

]]> On this week's show, Pat explains an illusion known as the McGurk Effect which demonstrates the interaction between hearing and vision in speech perception. We bring you part two of Darren and Adam's discussion with author Britt Wray about her book 'Rise Of The Necrofauna.' Cristina checks into the clickbait headline 'you're more likely to be killed by a vending machine than a shark.'

]]> 34:15 false 471 full TRC #470: Vegas Shooting Conspiracies + Britt Wray & Rise Of The Necrofauna + Enchroma Glasses Vegas Shooting Conspiracies + Britt Wray & Rise Of The Necrofauna + Enchroma Glasses Sun, 15 Oct 2017 15:09:48 +0000 On this week's show, Pat checks into some of the more prevalent conspiracy theories related to the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas. Next up, the first of a 2 part interview featuring a fascinating conversation with Britt Wray, author of Rise Of The Necrofauna, about bringing extinct species back to life. Lastly, Adam takes a look into the validity of viral videos featuring Enchroma glasses for colour blindness

]]> On this week's show, Pat checks into some of the more prevalent conspiracy theories related to the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas. Next up, the first of a 2 part interview featuring a fascinating conversation with Britt Wray, author of Rise Of The Necrofauna, about bringing extinct species back to life. Lastly, Adam takes a look into the validity of viral videos featuring Enchroma glasses for colour blindness

]]> 34:12 false 470 full TRC #469: Can A Computer Program Tell If Someone Is Gay? + Name That: World's Largest + Nuclear Myths Can A Computer Program Tell If Someone Is Gay? + Name That: World's Largest + Nuclear Myths Sat, 07 Oct 2017 17:59:59 +0000 On this week's show, Adam looks into an article suggesting that deep neural networks are more accurate than humans at detecting sexual orientation from facial images. Pat gives us another episode of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game, name that: the world's largest. Lastly, Darren addresses some commonly believed myths about nuclear weapons.

]]> On this week's show, Adam looks into an article suggesting that deep neural networks are more accurate than humans at detecting sexual orientation from facial images. Pat gives us another episode of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game, name that: the world's largest. Lastly, Darren addresses some commonly believed myths about nuclear weapons.

]]> 30:19 false 469 full TRC #468: Human Swallowed By Whale? + Breast Thermography + The Voynich Manuscript Human Swallowed By Whale? + Breast Thermography + The Voynich Manuscript Wed, 27 Sep 2017 13:05:05 +0000 Aaaaand we're back! On this week's show, Pat dives into whether a human could survive being swallowed by a whale. Cristina takes a serious look at dangerous claims made by clinics popping up promoting thermography for breast cancer screening. Finally, Adam schools us on whether a history researcher has cracked the code of The Voynich Manuscript.

]]> Aaaaand we're back! On this week's show, Pat dives into whether a human could survive being swallowed by a whale. Cristina takes a serious look at dangerous claims made by clinics popping up promoting thermography for breast cancer screening. Finally, Adam schools us on whether a history researcher has cracked the code of The Voynich Manuscript.

]]> 34:51 false 468 full TRC #467: Truth In Advertising Vs Goop + Boil Hot Or Cold Water? + Cuba And Classic Cars Truth In Advertising Vs Goop + Boil Hot Or Cold Water? + Cuba And Classic Cars Sat, 16 Sep 2017 18:58:35 +0000 This week Cristina tells us about a nonprofit called Truth in Advertising who have conducted an investigation into Gwyneth Paltrow's site, Goop. Darren asks: is it better to boil hot water or cold water? Adam wonders why Cuba has so many classic cars.

]]> This week Cristina tells us about a nonprofit called Truth in Advertising who have conducted an investigation into Gwyneth Paltrow's site, Goop. Darren asks: is it better to boil hot water or cold water? Adam wonders why Cuba has so many classic cars.

]]> 25:53 false 467 full TRC #466: Science Of Summer + Biased Algorithms + Lord Of The Flies Plausibility? Science Of Summer + Biased Algorithms + Lord Of The Flies Plausibility? Sat, 09 Sep 2017 15:43:30 +0000 This week, Darren looks into the science of late summer and why we get that sudden feeling that summer is gone. Honorary TRC'er and resident machine learning expert Dallas Card joins the Toronto crew in-studio to dissect whether algorithms can be biased. Finally, after hearing a female adaptation of Lord of the Flies is in the works, Adam asks whether the movie's concept is even plausible. PS. If you 'get' this week's photo, you win the internet.

]]> This week, Darren looks into the science of late summer and why we get that sudden feeling that summer is gone. Honorary TRC'er and resident machine learning expert Dallas Card joins the Toronto crew in-studio to dissect whether algorithms can be biased. Finally, after hearing a female adaptation of Lord of the Flies is in the works, Adam asks whether the movie's concept is even plausible. PS. If you 'get' this week's photo, you win the internet.

]]> 26:48 false 466 full TRC #465: Hurricanes, Typhoons & Cyclones + Climate Change vs Hurricanes + Hurricane Evacuation Hurricanes, Typhoons & Cyclones + Climate Change vs Hurricanes + Hurricane Evacuation Sat, 02 Sep 2017 22:17:54 +0000 With Hurricane Harvey shaping up to be one of the most damaging natural disasters in U.S history, the panel dedicate this week's show to learning more about hurricanes. First, Darren gives us a quick overview of what a hurricane is and the differences between it, typhoons, and cyclones. Adam looks at the impact of climate change on hurricanes. Lastly, Cristina digs into why and when evacuation orders are implemented during natural disasters after the recent criticism around Harris County.

]]> With Hurricane Harvey shaping up to be one of the most damaging natural disasters in U.S history, the panel dedicate this week's show to learning more about hurricanes. First, Darren gives us a quick overview of what a hurricane is and the differences between it, typhoons, and cyclones. Adam looks at the impact of climate change on hurricanes. Lastly, Cristina digs into why and when evacuation orders are implemented during natural disasters after the recent criticism around Harris County.

]]> 26:57 false 465 full TRC #464: Glyphosate In Food? + Average Female & Male Interests Differ? + Is Laughter The Best Medicine? Glyphosate In Food? + Average Female & Male Interests Differ? + Is Laughter The Best Medicine? Sat, 26 Aug 2017 16:43:06 +0000 Pat digs into a listener request about a report that found 'ALARMING' amounts of the herbicide glyphosate in food. Next, Darren takes a closer look at the data on whether female and male interests differ, on average. Lastly, Cristina checks the science behind the saying that laughter is the best medicine.

]]> Pat digs into a listener request about a report that found 'ALARMING' amounts of the herbicide glyphosate in food. Next, Darren takes a closer look at the data on whether female and male interests differ, on average. Lastly, Cristina checks the science behind the saying that laughter is the best medicine.

]]> 27:15 false 464 full TRC #463: Google Memo + Eclipse Myths + Do Twins Run In the Family Or Skip A Generation? Google Memo + Eclipse Myths + Do Twins Run In the Family Or Skip A Generation? Sat, 19 Aug 2017 16:55:30 +0000 Darren is back and he has some thoughts about the ongoing reporting and discussions related to the Google memo. In preparation for the solar eclipse on August 21, Cristina checks into some commonly held beliefs about eclipses. Lastly, Adam looks into the ideas that twins run in the family and skip a generation.

]]> Darren is back and he has some thoughts about the ongoing reporting and discussions related to the Google memo. In preparation for the solar eclipse on August 21, Cristina checks into some commonly held beliefs about eclipses. Lastly, Adam looks into the ideas that twins run in the family and skip a generation.

]]> 21:48 false 463 full TRC #462: Sophomore Slump + Name That: Darren Edition + Do Millennials Cheat Less? Sophomore Slump + Name That: Darren Edition + Do Millennials Cheat Less? Sat, 12 Aug 2017 19:31:24 +0000 Our old friend and OG TRC co-host Elan "Origami" Dubrofsky fills in this week for vacationing Darren with a 'skepticool' look at whether the phenomenon known as the "Sophomore Slump" has any truth to it. Pat has some fun trolling the panel with a game of Name That: Darren Edition. Finally, Adam picks apart the data behind recent headlines claiming millennials commit less and  'housewives' commit more adultery.

]]> Our old friend and OG TRC co-host Elan "Origami" Dubrofsky fills in this week for vacationing Darren with a 'skepticool' look at whether the phenomenon known as the "Sophomore Slump" has any truth to it. Pat has some fun trolling the panel with a game of Name That: Darren Edition. Finally, Adam picks apart the data behind recent headlines claiming millennials commit less and 'housewives' commit more adultery.

]]> 35:12 false 462 full TRC #461: Online Harassment Research + Arcade Fire vs Fake News + How Far Away Is Lightning? Online Harassment Research + Arcade Fire vs Fake News + How Far Away Is Lightning? Sat, 05 Aug 2017 19:48:19 +0000 Happy August, Checkers! This week Adam digs into a recent Pew Research Center study about online harassment to find out if women are more likely to be harassed online than men. Cristina gives us a lesson in Internet Trolling 101 featuring Canadian band Arcade Fire. Finally, Darren determines whether counting between lightning and thunder can really tell you the distance of a storm.

]]> Happy August, Checkers! This week Adam digs into a recent Pew Research Center study about online harassment to find out if women are more likely to be harassed online than men. Cristina gives us a lesson in Internet Trolling 101 featuring Canadian band Arcade Fire. Finally, Darren determines whether counting between lightning and thunder can really tell you the distance of a storm.

]]> 37:06 false 461 full TRC #460: Sam Harris vs Scott Adams On Trump + Highway Signs + Consequences Of Animal Activism Sam Harris vs Scott Adams On Trump + Highway Signs + Consequences Of Animal Activism Sat, 29 Jul 2017 14:03:09 +0000 This week Darren gives us an impassioned critical overview of a recent interview on Waking Up with Sam Harris featuring Dilbert creator Scott Adams who makes a case for Trump. Cristina looks into how businesses get their logos on those big blue highway signs and at what cost. Finally, Adam looks at a recent and tragic news story about a Mink farm and reminds us sometimes there are consequences even with the best of intentions.

]]> This week Darren gives us an impassioned critical overview of a recent interview on Waking Up with Sam Harris featuring Dilbert creator Scott Adams who makes a case for Trump. Cristina looks into how businesses get their logos on those big blue highway signs and at what cost. Finally, Adam looks at a recent and tragic news story about a Mink farm and reminds us sometimes there are consequences even with the best of intentions.

]]> 40:14 false 460 full TRC #459: Mashup: High Fidelity Music Players + Puff The Magic Dragon Vs Pot + Perfect Pitch Mashup: High Fidelity Music Players + Puff The Magic Dragon Vs Pot + Perfect Pitch Fri, 21 Jul 2017 19:30:54 +0000 Pat and Cristina bring you a music themed mashup! First Pat sets the tone with a segment on high fidelity audio players and whether Neil Young's Pono device is as 'righteous' as its name claims. Darren clears the smoke on whether Puff The Magic Dragon is about marijuana. Cristina rings in with a segment about Perfect Pitch.

]]> Pat and Cristina bring you a music themed mashup! First Pat sets the tone with a segment on high fidelity audio players and whether Neil Young's Pono device is as 'righteous' as its name claims. Darren clears the smoke on whether Puff The Magic Dragon is about marijuana. Cristina rings in with a segment about Perfect Pitch.

]]> 36:32 false 459 full TRC #458: Wine Tasting Bias? + Activated Charcoal Food Trend + Did Amelia Earhart Survive Crash? Wine Tasting Bias? + Activated Charcoal Food Trend + Did Amelia Earhart Survive Crash? Fri, 14 Jul 2017 20:03:54 +0000 Darren kicks off this week's show looking into whether seeing the colour of your wine influences your perception of its taste. Cristina digs into the purported health benefits of the latest activated charcoal food trend. Finally, Adam investigates the claim made in a recent History Channel documentary that new photo evidence of Amelia Earhart shows she survived a crash-landing.

]]> Darren kicks off this week's show looking into whether seeing the colour of your wine influences your perception of its taste. Cristina digs into the purported health benefits of the latest activated charcoal food trend. Finally, Adam investigates the claim made in a recent History Channel documentary that new photo evidence of Amelia Earhart shows she survived a crash-landing.

]]> 33:03 false 458 full TRC #457: Perception Of Force + Name That: Food Edition + Does It Always Rain On Canada Day? Perception Of Force + Name That: Food Edition + Does It Always Rain On Canada Day? Sat, 08 Jul 2017 16:42:46 +0000 This week the crew is joined once again by 'Physics Commando' Barry Panas who challenges us to think about the labels we use to describe what we feel when it comes to force and motion. Pat gives us a food themed game of 'Name That'. Adam checks the numbers on whether it always rains on Canada Day.

]]> This week the crew is joined once again by 'Physics Commando' Barry Panas who challenges us to think about the labels we use to describe what we feel when it comes to force and motion. Pat gives us a food themed game of 'Name That'. Adam checks the numbers on whether it always rains on Canada Day.

]]> 37:53 false 457 full TRC #456: Anonymous vs NASA + The Matilda Effect + Wonder Woman Pay Gap? Anonymous vs NASA + The Matilda Effect + Wonder Woman Pay Gap? Sat, 01 Jul 2017 11:57:34 +0000 Happy Canada Day Checkers! This week, Adam looks into a claim by Anonymous making headlines that NASA is about to announce the discovery of aliens. Inspired by the movie Hidden Figures, Cristina digs into the Matilda Effect and highlights some groundbreaking women scientists who were famously and shamelessly snubbed for their achievements. Finally, after Darren comes down from seeing the new Wonder Woman blockbuster, he explores whether Gal Gadot's paycheque is as unfair as some make it sound.

]]> Happy Canada Day Checkers! This week, Adam looks into a claim by Anonymous making headlines that NASA is about to announce the discovery of aliens. Inspired by the movie Hidden Figures, Cristina digs into the Matilda Effect and highlights some groundbreaking women scientists who were famously and shamelessly snubbed for their achievements. Finally, after Darren comes down from seeing the new Wonder Woman blockbuster, he explores whether Gal Gadot's paycheque is as unfair as some make it sound.

]]> 29:49 false 456 full TRC #455: Mashup: Talking To Dogs + Dogs and Peanut Butter + Do Dogs Hate Hugs? Mashup: Talking To Dogs + Dogs and Peanut Butter + Do Dogs Hate Hugs? Fri, 23 Jun 2017 18:41:45 +0000 Producer Pat is joined in the studio by his dog Holden while the rest of the crew has the week off.  So, of course, all the topic are about dogs in this mashup episode. Darren digs into headlines that suggest science has confirmed dogs understand us. Cristina paws at rumours that peanut butter may be deadly to dogs. Adam bites into some research suggesting dogs hate hugs. Woof!

]]> Producer Pat is joined in the studio by his dog Holden while the rest of the crew has the week off. So, of course, all the topic are about dogs in this mashup episode. Darren digs into headlines that suggest science has confirmed dogs understand us. Cristina paws at rumours that peanut butter may be deadly to dogs. Adam bites into some research suggesting dogs hate hugs. Woof!

]]> 31:32 false 455 full TRC #454: Gas Pump Icon + Himalayan Salt Lamps + Why Do We Cook At 350 Degrees? Gas Pump Icon + Himalayan Salt Lamps + Why Do We Cook At 350 Degrees? Sat, 17 Jun 2017 16:19:20 +0000 On this week's show, Darren takes a closer look at the fuel icon on your car's dashboard. Adam channels his skepticism into fact-checking the various purported claims of Himalayan Salt Lamps. Finally, Cristina cooks up a segment about why 350 degrees is a universal sweet spot.

]]> On this week's show, Darren takes a closer look at the fuel icon on your car's dashboard. Adam channels his skepticism into fact-checking the various purported claims of Himalayan Salt Lamps. Finally, Cristina cooks up a segment about why 350 degrees is a universal sweet spot.

]]> 23:54 false 454 full TRC #453: Sugar In The Gas Tank? + Conceptual Penis Hoax + Sailor Moon The Voice Of Wonder Woman? Sugar In The Gas Tank? + Conceptual Penis Hoax + Sailor Moon The Voice Of Wonder Woman? Sat, 10 Jun 2017 17:18:17 +0000 The weekend is here and so is TRC! First, Pat does an engine check on what would happen if someone put sugar in your gas tank. Darren looks into some big news in the skeptical community regarding the publication of a fake paper in a social science journal. Last, Adam battles rumours that the voice of Sailor Moon is the Japanese voice of Wonder Woman.

]]> The weekend is here and so is TRC! First, Pat does an engine check on what would happen if someone put sugar in your gas tank. Darren looks into some big news in the skeptical community regarding the publication of a fake paper in a social science journal. Last, Adam battles rumours that the voice of Sailor Moon is the Japanese voice of Wonder Woman.

]]> 25:35 false 453 full TRC #452: Mount Everest The Tallest Mountain? + Does Music Calm Your Canine? + Avril Lavigne Death Conspiracy Mount Everest The Tallest Mountain? + Does Music Calm Your Canine? + Avril Lavigne Death Conspiracy Sat, 03 Jun 2017 15:40:59 +0000 What a better way to kick off the month than a new dose of The Reality Check! First, Pat schools us on which mountain is really the tallest and why. Cristina digs into various studies to see if there is any evidence to support she should leave the radio on to soothe her dog while she's gone. Finally, Adam takes on a persistent conspiracy theory that Avril Lavigne is not who she seems.

]]> What a better way to kick off the month than a new dose of The Reality Check! First, Pat schools us on which mountain is really the tallest and why. Cristina digs into various studies to see if there is any evidence to support she should leave the radio on to soothe her dog while she's gone. Finally, Adam takes on a persistent conspiracy theory that Avril Lavigne is not who she seems.

]]> 32:30 false 452 full TRC #451: Does Paper Burn at 451 Degrees Fahrenheit? + Did Humans Migrate To The Americas 130K Years Ago? + Does Wearing Red Make You More Attractive? Does Paper Burn at 451 Degrees Fahrenheit? + Did Humans Migrate To The Americas 130K Years Ago? + Does Wearing Red Make You More Attractive? Sat, 27 May 2017 18:56:37 +0000 Happy weekend, Checkers! Darren burns through a segment about whether book paper ignites at 451 degrees fahrenheit as depicted in the Ray Bradbury novel. Next, Adam digs into recent headlines suggesting that humans migrated to the Americas 130 thousand years ago. Lastly, Cristina tempts you with an examination into whether wearing red makes you more attractive.

]]> Happy weekend, Checkers! Darren burns through a segment about whether book paper ignites at 451 degrees fahrenheit as depicted in the Ray Bradbury novel. Next, Adam digs into recent headlines suggesting that humans migrated to the Americas 130 thousand years ago. Lastly, Cristina tempts you with an examination into whether wearing red makes you more attractive.

]]> 24:39 false 451 full TRC #450: Save Knocked Out Teeth With Milk? + Physics Of Zelda Ft Barry Panas + Car Colour vs Insurance Rates Save Knocked Out Teeth With Milk? + Physics Of Zelda Ft Barry Panas + Car Colour vs Insurance Rates Fri, 19 May 2017 17:48:28 +0000 A brand new episode of TRC is here just in time for the weekend! Cristina looks into whether you can really save knocked out teeth by storing them in milk. The crew is joined by guest panelist and 'Physics Commando' Barry Panas who revisits theory vs theory and puts his physics spin on The Legend of Zelda. Lastly, Darren rounds out the show by examining whether car colour affects insurance rates.

]]> A brand new episode of TRC is here just in time for the weekend! Cristina looks into whether you can really save knocked out teeth by storing them in milk. The crew is joined by guest panelist and 'Physics Commando' Barry Panas who revisits theory vs theory and puts his physics spin on The Legend of Zelda. Lastly, Darren rounds out the show by examining whether car colour affects insurance rates.

]]> 29:05 false 450 full TRC #449: Why Use Stop In Telegrams + Ask An Astronomer ft Dr. Stuart Robbins + Do Babies Look Like Dad To Avoid Abandonment? Why Use Stop In Telegrams + Ask An Astronomer ft Dr. Stuart Robbins + Do Babies Look Like Dad To Avoid Abandonment? Sat, 13 May 2017 14:31:38 +0000 Your weekly dose of fun and facts is back with a brand new episode! Cristina takes on a twitter question about the use of the word 'stop' in telegrams and busts some old myths in the process. Our favo(u)rite resident astronomer Dr. Stuart Robbins returns with an update on New Horizons and to impart more wisdom about vacuums, and virtual particles. Finally, new dad, Adam investigates whether babies resemble their Fathers more than their Mothers. And speaking of Moms, Happy Mother's Day!

]]> Your weekly dose of fun and facts is back with a brand new episode! Cristina takes on a twitter question about the use of the word 'stop' in telegrams and busts some old myths in the process. Our favo(u)rite resident astronomer Dr. Stuart Robbins returns with an update on New Horizons and to impart more wisdom about vacuums, and virtual particles. Finally, new dad, Adam investigates whether babies resemble their Fathers more than their Mothers. And speaking of Moms, Happy Mother's Day!

]]> 33:41 false 449 full TRC #448: Justin Trudeau & Cupping + Ask An Astronomer ft Dr. Stuart Robbins + Duct Tape Justin Trudeau & Cupping + Ask An Astronomer ft Dr. Stuart Robbins + Duct Tape Sat, 06 May 2017 18:39:34 +0000 What's up, Checkers! This week, Adam takes a closer look at cupping therapy after Prime Minister Trudeau is spotted doing an interview with cup-shaped bruises on his arms. Our favo(u)rite resident astronomer Dr. Stuart Robbins joins the crew to explain zero gravity and how our bodies would respond if we stopped accelerating in space. Finally, Darren looks into the sticky truth about duct tape.

]]> What's up, Checkers! This week, Adam takes a closer look at cupping therapy after Prime Minister Trudeau is spotted doing an interview with cup-shaped bruises on his arms. Our favo(u)rite resident astronomer Dr. Stuart Robbins joins the crew to explain zero gravity and how our bodies would respond if we stopped accelerating in space. Finally, Darren looks into the sticky truth about duct tape.

]]> 28:39 false 448 full TRC #447: March For Science + Is Witchcraft a Crime in Canada? + Does a Unicorn Frappuccino Contain Coffee? March For Science + Is Witchcraft a Crime in Canada? + Does a Unicorn Frappuccino Contain Coffee? Fri, 28 Apr 2017 20:26:58 +0000 Welcome to another episode of your fave fact-checkin' show! Darren kicks things off with a recap and discussion of April 22's March For Science. Cristina looks into whether witchcraft is an actual crime under Canada's Criminal Code. Finally, Adam asks the burning question on all of our minds lately...does the new Starbucks Unicorn Frappuccino contain any coffee?

]]> Welcome to another episode of your fave fact-checkin' show! Darren kicks things off with a recap and discussion of April 22's March For Science. Cristina looks into whether witchcraft is an actual crime under Canada's Criminal Code. Finally, Adam asks the burning question on all of our minds lately...does the new Starbucks Unicorn Frappuccino contain any coffee?

]]> 31:31 false 447 full TRC #446: Is 'Fearless Girl' Bull? + Name That: Baby Edition + Survival Of The Fittest Is 'Fearless Girl' Bull? + Name That: Baby Edition + Survival Of The Fittest Fri, 21 Apr 2017 22:23:00 +0000 The TRC crew brings another fun and fact-filled show! First up, Darren looks behind the controversy swelling around the recent art installation in New York titled "Fearless Girl". Producer Pat challenges the panel with an eye-opening game of Name That. Finally, Adam rounds out the show by digging into news claiming neanderthal remains may disprove the biological concept "Survival Of The Fittest".

This week's show is brought to you by HelloFresh and by Endy Sleep. Canadian Checkers can use the promo code 'Reality50' to receive 50% off your first HelloFresh order. Use promo code 'REALITY' to get $50 off any Endy Sleep Mattress.

]]> The TRC crew brings another fun and fact-filled show! First up, Darren looks behind the controversy swelling around the recent art installation in New York titled "Fearless Girl". Producer Pat challenges the panel with an eye-opening game of Name That. Finally, Adam rounds out the show by digging into news claiming neanderthal remains may disprove the biological concept "Survival Of The Fittest".

This week's show is brought to you by HelloFresh and by Endy Sleep. Canadian Checkers can use the promo code 'Reality50' to receive 50% off your first HelloFresh order. Use promo code 'REALITY' to get $50 off any Endy Sleep Mattress.

]]> 33:13 false 446 full TRC #445: Social Priming + Feral Girl Living With Monkeys? + Origin Of The Dollar Sign Social Priming + Feral Girl Living With Monkeys? + Origin Of The Dollar Sign Fri, 14 Apr 2017 19:57:56 +0000 While Cristina is away, the rest of the crew still brings it! Darren once again tackles possible issues in the field of psychology by looking into social priming. Pat digs into a recent news story making the rounds regarding an alleged feral girl found living with monkeys in India. Finally, Adam delves into the interesting origin of the dollar sign.


This week's show is brought to you by HelloFresh and by Endy Sleep. Canadian Checkers can use the promo code 'Reality50' to receive 50% off your first HelloFresh order. Use promo code 'REALITY' to get $50 off any Endy Sleep Mattress.

]]> While Cristina is away, the rest of the crew still brings it! Darren once again tackles possible issues in the field of psychology by looking into social priming. Pat digs into a recent news story making the rounds regarding an alleged feral girl found living with monkeys in India. Finally, Adam delves into the interesting origin of the dollar sign.

This week's show is brought to you by HelloFresh and by Endy Sleep. Canadian Checkers can use the promo code 'Reality50' to receive 50% off your first HelloFresh order. Use promo code 'REALITY' to get $50 off any Endy Sleep Mattress.

]]> 23:48 false 445 full TRC #444: Mashup: Breast Feeding And Lactivism + Are Parents Less Happy? Mashup: Breast Feeding And Lactivism + Are Parents Less Happy? Sat, 08 Apr 2017 14:02:53 +0000 It's all about parents and babies this week for a good reason. First Cristina explores the science of mother's milk and asks whether some breastfeeding advocates take things too far. Bonus: a very tired Adam gives us an update. Next, Darren examines whether parents are more or less happy than people without children.

]]> It's all about parents and babies this week for a good reason. First Cristina explores the science of mother's milk and asks whether some breastfeeding advocates take things too far. Bonus: a very tired Adam gives us an update. Next, Darren examines whether parents are more or less happy than people without children.

]]> 40:06 false 444 full TRC #443: Theory Vs Scientific Theory + Pesticides In Canadian Water? + Cheerios: Bring Back The Bees Theory Vs Scientific Theory + Pesticides In Canadian Water? + Cheerios: Bring Back The Bees Fri, 31 Mar 2017 22:17:08 +0000 Tired of hearing people say 'it's just a theory'? Pat tackles a listener's email and schools us on the true definition of the often misunderstood word 'theory' in science. Adam dives into a recent article claiming a pesticide banned in Europe is turning up in Canadian water supplies. Finally, Cristina looks into the recent bad buzz around Cheerios cereal's #bringbackthebees campaign. Bonus: name that drum loop!

 

]]> Tired of hearing people say 'it's just a theory'? Pat tackles a listener's email and schools us on the true definition of the often misunderstood word 'theory' in science. Adam dives into a recent article claiming a pesticide banned in Europe is turning up in Canadian water supplies. Finally, Cristina looks into the recent bad buzz around Cheerios cereal's #bringbackthebees campaign. Bonus: name that drum loop!

]]> 30:54 false 443 full TRC #442: Implicit Association Test + Eiffel Tower Night Photos Illegal? + Irish Slaves A Myth? Implicit Association Test + Eiffel Tower Night Photos Illegal? + Irish Slaves A Myth? Fri, 24 Mar 2017 18:46:25 +0000 Darren takes a deep dive into the Implicit Association Test to see if it really does measure our unconscious levels of prejudice and assess implicit bias. Cristina explores whether there's a chance she may get arrested if she takes photos of the night-lit Eiffel Tower on an upcoming trip to Paris. Finally, Adam explores a common news story that comes up around St. Patrick's Day regarding Irish slavery in America.

]]> Darren takes a deep dive into the Implicit Association Test to see if it really does measure our unconscious levels of prejudice and assess implicit bias. Cristina explores whether there's a chance she may get arrested if she takes photos of the night-lit Eiffel Tower on an upcoming trip to Paris. Finally, Adam explores a common news story that comes up around St. Patrick's Day regarding Irish slavery in America.

]]> 29:01 false 442 full TRC #441: Nintendo Switch And Flavour Tripping + Gossip + School Buses And Seat Belts Nintendo Switch And Flavour Tripping + Gossip + School Buses And Seat Belts Fri, 17 Mar 2017 19:45:43 +0000 The TRC crew is back with an entertaining show! First, Pat gives us a fascinating look into why people are licking Nintendo Switch cartridges and what the heck flavour tripping is. Next, Adam ponders the purpose of gossip. Lastly, Cristina tackles a Checker's email asking whether seat belts would make school buses safer.

]]> The TRC crew is back with an entertaining show! First, Pat gives us a fascinating look into why people are licking Nintendo Switch cartridges and what the heck flavour tripping is. Next, Adam ponders the purpose of gossip. Lastly, Cristina tackles a Checker's email asking whether seat belts would make school buses safer.

]]> 32:38 false 441 full TRC #440: Emotions You Don't Feel? Emotions You Don't Feel? Fri, 10 Mar 2017 19:44:59 +0000 With the crew on holiday we bring you a discussion with Professor Jim Davies about what it means to have an emotion and how it could be possible to have emotions we don't feel. Jim is a cognitive scientist and author of Riveted: The Science of Why Jokes Make Us Laugh, Movies Make Us Cry, and Religion Makes Us Feel One With the Universe.

]]> With the crew on holiday we bring you a discussion with Professor Jim Davies about what it means to have an emotion and how it could be possible to have emotions we don't feel. Jim is a cognitive scientist and author of Riveted: The Science of Why Jokes Make Us Laugh, Movies Make Us Cry, and Religion Makes Us Feel One With the Universe.

]]> 11:48 false 440 full TRC #439: Would Aliens Be Hostile? + Lunar Effect + Name That: Powers Of 10 Would Aliens Be Hostile? + Lunar Effect + Name That: Powers Of 10 Fri, 03 Mar 2017 18:09:00 +0000 This week we bring you the second half of our crossover show with Dr. Stuart Robbins of the Exposing PseudoAstronomy podcast. Adam looks into whether aliens visiting earth are likely to be hostile. Cristina examines the lunar effect. Lastly, Stuart tries his hand at hosting a game of Name That: Powers of 10 edition.

]]> This week we bring you the second half of our crossover show with Dr. Stuart Robbins of the Exposing PseudoAstronomy podcast. Adam looks into whether aliens visiting earth are likely to be hostile. Cristina examines the lunar effect. Lastly, Stuart tries his hand at hosting a game of Name That: Powers of 10 edition.

]]> 29:20 false 439 full TRC #438: Fossil Fuel Vs Dinosaurs + How Animals Survive Winter + Dry Cleaning Dry? Fossil Fuel Vs Dinosaurs + How Animals Survive Winter + Dry Cleaning Dry? Fri, 24 Feb 2017 19:49:44 +0000 This week Pat kicks off the show with a look into the idea that fossil fuels are the remains of dead dinosaurs. Next, Darren checks into many of the ways that animals stay warm during cold winter months. Lastly Adam wonders: how dry is dry cleaning? Enjoy!


This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> This week Pat kicks off the show with a look into the idea that fossil fuels are the remains of dead dinosaurs. Next, Darren checks into many of the ways that animals stay warm during cold winter months. Lastly Adam wonders: how dry is dry cleaning? Enjoy!

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 23:02 false 438 full TRC #437: Tariffs Vs The Border Wall + Movie Myths + Statue Of Liberty: Muslim? Tariffs Vs The Border Wall + Movie Myths + Statue Of Liberty: Muslim? Sat, 18 Feb 2017 20:38:12 +0000 The U.S. president is threatening to impose stiff tariffs on Mexican imports, but how do tariffs really work? Darren gives us the low-down. Next, Cristina looks into myths many of us believe thanks to movies and TV shows. Finally, Adam examines claims floating around social media that the Statue of Liberty was originally based on a Muslim woman.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> The U.S. president is threatening to impose stiff tariffs on Mexican imports, but how do tariffs really work? Darren gives us the low-down. Next, Cristina looks into myths many of us believe thanks to movies and TV shows. Finally, Adam examines claims floating around social media that the Statue of Liberty was originally based on a Muslim woman.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 29:19 false 437 full TRC #436: Applied Kinesiology + Japanese Tourists & Northern Lights? + Coconut Oil Applied Kinesiology + Japanese Tourists & Northern Lights? + Coconut Oil Sat, 11 Feb 2017 15:11:50 +0000 On this week's show, Adam gives us the rub on whether applied kinesiology is a legitimate practice. Cristina takes a closer look at a persistent myth that Japanese tourists flock to the Yukon to have sex under the Aurora Borealis. Finally, Darren examines various claims purporting the health benefits of coconut oil.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> On this week's show, Adam gives us the rub on whether applied kinesiology is a legitimate practice. Cristina takes a closer look at a persistent myth that Japanese tourists flock to the Yukon to have sex under the Aurora Borealis. Finally, Darren examines various claims purporting the health benefits of coconut oil.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 24:18 false 436 full TRC #435: Do We Live In A Black Hole + The Drake Equation + Solar Flares Vs Earth's Magnetic Field With Dr. Stuart Robbins Do We Live In A Black Hole + The Drake Equation + Solar Flares Vs Earth's Magnetic Field With Dr. Stuart Robbins Fri, 03 Feb 2017 19:01:08 +0000 The Reality Check crew joins forces with Exposing PseudoAstronomy for a special crossover show this week! First up, Darren explores the notion that we may be living in a black hole. Pat breaks down the Drake Equation. Finally, Dr. Stuart Robbins explores whether a solar flare radiation burst really cracked the Earth's magnetic field causing radio blackouts.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> The Reality Check crew joins forces with Exposing PseudoAstronomy for a special crossover show this week! First up, Darren explores the notion that we may be living in a black hole. Pat breaks down the Drake Equation. Finally, Dr. Stuart Robbins explores whether a solar flare radiation burst really cracked the Earth's magnetic field causing radio blackouts.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 26:02 false 435 full TRC #434: Menstrual Synchrony + Name That: Internet 2016 + Have Your Cake And Eat It Too? Menstrual Synchrony + Name That: Internet 2016 + Have Your Cake And Eat It Too? Fri, 27 Jan 2017 21:39:46 +0000 Cristina starts this week's show off checking into the widely held belief that women who who live or work closely together have periods that start to sync up. Next, Pat brings us another edition of everyone's favourite guessing game, 'Name That,' about the internet in 2016. Lastly, Adam looks into the phrase 'you can't have your cake and eat it too.'

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> Cristina starts this week's show off checking into the widely held belief that women who who live or work closely together have periods that start to sync up. Next, Pat brings us another edition of everyone's favourite guessing game, 'Name That,' about the internet in 2016. Lastly, Adam looks into the phrase 'you can't have your cake and eat it too.'

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 25:06 false 434 full TRC #433: Fingerprint Theft From Selfies? + Revisiting Celebrity Death Stats + The Birthday Paradox Fingerprint Theft From Selfies? + Revisiting Celebrity Death Stats + The Birthday Paradox Sat, 21 Jan 2017 01:05:49 +0000 Pat kicks off this week's show with a touchy news item making the rounds claiming hackers can steal our fingerprints from selfies. Darren digs into some new analyses on whether celebrity deaths were more rampant in 2016 after all. Finally, Adam explores the probability of two people in a room sharing the same birthday.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> Pat kicks off this week's show with a touchy news item making the rounds claiming hackers can steal our fingerprints from selfies. Darren digs into some new analyses on whether celebrity deaths were more rampant in 2016 after all. Finally, Adam explores the probability of two people in a room sharing the same birthday.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 27:31 false 433 full TRC #432: Winter Insects + Miracle Cream & Free Trials + Star Wars' Old Republic Women's Healthcare Winter Insects + Miracle Cream & Free Trials + Star Wars' Old Republic Women's Healthcare Fri, 13 Jan 2017 20:59:53 +0000 This week, Darren assures us that those tiny dark objects moving across the snow are not our imagination. A recent ad popping up on socials for "miracle cream" has Cristina asking if free skincare trials are really as advertised. Finally, Adam uses the force to see if inadequate women's healthcare destroyed Star Wars' Old Republic.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> This week, Darren assures us that those tiny dark objects moving across the snow are not our imagination. A recent ad popping up on socials for "miracle cream" has Cristina asking if free skincare trials are really as advertised. Finally, Adam uses the force to see if inadequate women's healthcare destroyed Star Wars' Old Republic.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 24:57 false 432 full TRC #431: Annual Prediction Game + Fave Segments of 2016 + Was 2016 Really The Worst Year? Annual Prediction Game + Fave Segments of 2016 + Was 2016 Really The Worst Year? Fri, 06 Jan 2017 20:54:43 +0000 The TRC crew reunite to kick 2016 to the curb and usher in the New Year with a fun-filled show! Adam checks the panel's "clairvoyance" score by revisiting last year's "predictions". The panel set aside logic yet again to make their predictions for 2017. Favourite and most surprising segments from 2016 are highlighted.  Finally, Darren rounds out the show by asking was 2016 really the worst year ever?

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> The TRC crew reunite to kick 2016 to the curb and usher in the New Year with a fun-filled show! Adam checks the panel's "clairvoyance" score by revisiting last year's "predictions". The panel set aside logic yet again to make their predictions for 2017. Favourite and most surprising segments from 2016 are highlighted. Finally, Darren rounds out the show by asking was 2016 really the worst year ever?

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 28:25 false 431 full TRC #430: The 6th Annual Holiday Parody Spectacular The 6th Annual Holiday Parody Spectacular Fri, 30 Dec 2016 19:34:47 +0000 Pat and Cristina hijack the last show of the year and feature holiday-themed parodies from years past. The crew offers up their year-end lists highlighting the favourite things they've read, watched and listened to in 2016. Finally, we revisit some of listener and panel top voted parodies.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> Pat and Cristina hijack the last show of the year and feature holiday-themed parodies from years past. The crew offers up their year-end lists highlighting the favourite things they've read, watched and listened to in 2016. Finally, we revisit some of listener and panel top voted parodies.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 27:20 false 430 full TRC #429.5: Programming Good Ethics Into A.I. Programming Good Ethics Into A.I. Tue, 27 Dec 2016 19:04:08 +0000 Some extra content this week for all you checkers! Darren and Adam have a discussion with friend of the show Jim Davies about programming good ethics into artificial intelligence. Jim is an associate professor in the Institute of Cognitive Science at Carleton University. 

]]> Some extra content this week for all you checkers! Darren and Adam have a discussion with friend of the show Jim Davies about programming good ethics into artificial intelligence. Jim is an associate professor in the Institute of Cognitive Science at Carleton University.

]]> 12:10 false 429 full TRC #429: Is Barter The Origin Of Money? + More Trees Than Stars? + Snowflakes Is Barter The Origin Of Money? + More Trees Than Stars? + Snowflakes Fri, 23 Dec 2016 18:07:07 +0000 Special guest, Lars, gets things started by examining whether barter is the origin of money. Next, Pat looks into whether there are more trees on Earth than stars in the Milky Way. Lastly, Darren gives us a primer on snowflakes. 

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> Special guest, Lars, gets things started by examining whether barter is the origin of money. Next, Pat looks into whether there are more trees on Earth than stars in the Milky Way. Lastly, Darren gives us a primer on snowflakes.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 25:25 false 429 full TRC #428: Truffle Oil + The Science Of Idiocracy + Paid Sick Leave Truffle Oil + The Science Of Idiocracy + Paid Sick Leave Fri, 16 Dec 2016 19:13:26 +0000 Pat starts things off by digging for the truth about truffle oil. Next, Adam looks into the science behind the movie 'Idiocracy' and asks: is natural selection making us dumb? Lastly, Cristina coughs up some facts around the real cost of not providing paid sick leave.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> Pat starts things off by digging for the truth about truffle oil. Next, Adam looks into the science behind the movie 'Idiocracy' and asks: is natural selection making us dumb? Lastly, Cristina coughs up some facts around the real cost of not providing paid sick leave.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 27:39 false 428 full TRC #427: Possession Is 9-10ths Of The Law? + Genes Predict Athletic Performance? + What Is Organic? Possession Is 9-10ths Of The Law? + Genes Predict Athletic Performance? + What Is Organic? Fri, 09 Dec 2016 23:03:54 +0000 Adam kicks things off by decoding the common phrase 'possession is 9/10ths of the law'. Next Cristina looks into whether direct-to-consumer genetic tests can really help predict a child's athletic predisposition. Lastly, Darren checks into what the organic label really means.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> Adam kicks things off by decoding the common phrase 'possession is 9/10ths of the law'. Next Cristina looks into whether direct-to-consumer genetic tests can really help predict a child's athletic predisposition. Lastly, Darren checks into what the organic label really means.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 29:26 false 427 full TRC #426.5: Effective Donating 2016 Effective Donating 2016 Tue, 06 Dec 2016 19:25:48 +0000 'Tis the season for giving so TRC brings you an extra show this week. Darren and Adam revisit a segment on effective donating during the holidays with some updates for 2016.

This show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 'Tis the season for giving so TRC brings you an extra show this week. Darren and Adam revisit a segment on effective donating during the holidays with some updates for 2016.

This show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 19:55 false 426 full TRC #426: Measuring Pregnancy: Weeks Vs Months? + Name That: Canadian Citizenship + The 5 Second Rule Measuring Pregnancy: Weeks Vs Months? + Name That: Canadian Citizenship + The 5 Second Rule Fri, 02 Dec 2016 19:12:19 +0000 Adam kicks off the show looking at whether it is better to measure pregnancy in weeks or months. Next, Pat tests the panel's "Canadianness" with a game of 'Name That' featuring questions from Canadian citizenship practice exams. Darren closes out the show with a look at the five second rule. 

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> Adam kicks off the show looking at whether it is better to measure pregnancy in weeks or months. Next, Pat tests the panel's "Canadianness" with a game of 'Name That' featuring questions from Canadian citizenship practice exams. Darren closes out the show with a look at the five second rule.

This week's show is brought to you by hellofresh. You can use the promo code 'REALITY50' to get 50% off your first order.

]]> 26:27 false 426 full TRC #425: Fake News, Facebook & The Election + FTC Vs Homeopathy + Ultrasound Determining Fetal Sex Fake News, Facebook & The Election + FTC Vs Homeopathy + Ultrasound Determining Fetal Sex Fri, 25 Nov 2016 21:00:15 +0000 Darren kick off the show looking at headlines about fake news, Facebook and the U.S. election.  Cristina looks at new FTC rules regarding homeopathy.  Lastly, Adam brings us a segment about determining fetal sex via ultrasound.  

]]> Darren kick off the show looking at headlines about fake news, Facebook and the U.S. election. Cristina looks at new FTC rules regarding homeopathy. Lastly, Adam brings us a segment about determining fetal sex via ultrasound.

]]> 29:53 false 425 full TRC #424: Harambe For President? + Moving To Canada + Trump Predictions Harambe For President? + Moving To Canada + Trump Predictions Sat, 19 Nov 2016 15:26:58 +0000 Pat kicks off The Reality Check's first post-US election show looking into claims that voters may have thrown off the election results by voting Harambe 2016. Adam gives any disgruntled American friends the 411 on how to move to Canada. Finally, Cristina scrutinizes the validity of alleged uncanny Trump predictions floating around social media.

]]> Pat kicks off The Reality Check's first post-US election show looking into claims that voters may have thrown off the election results by voting Harambe 2016. Adam gives any disgruntled American friends the 411 on how to move to Canada. Finally, Cristina scrutinizes the validity of alleged uncanny Trump predictions floating around social media.

]]> 30:52 false 424 full TRC #423: Daylight Saving Time + Stopped Male Birth Control Study Daylight Saving Time + Stopped Male Birth Control Study Fri, 11 Nov 2016 16:59:30 +0000 Cristina reality checks some common misconceptions about Daylight Saving Time.  Darren looks at recent headlines about a male birth control study which was stopped due to adverse effects.

]]> Cristina reality checks some common misconceptions about Daylight Saving Time. Darren looks at recent headlines about a male birth control study which was stopped due to adverse effects.

]]> 27:26 false 423 full TRC #422: Theraband FlexBar Effective? + Star Wars Filming Near You? + Name That: Remembrance Day Theraband FlexBar Effective? + Star Wars Filming Near You? + Name That: Remembrance Day Fri, 04 Nov 2016 16:48:06 +0000 Cristina checks into a listener's questions about the effectiveness of a product called 'Theraband Flexbar' for tennis elbow. Adam looks at some headlines about a new Star Wars flick being filmed near you which are making the rounds on social media. Pat tests the panel's knowledge with a Remembrance Day themed episode of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game, 'name that.'

]]> Cristina checks into a listener's questions about the effectiveness of a product called 'Theraband Flexbar' for tennis elbow. Adam looks at some headlines about a new Star Wars flick being filmed near you which are making the rounds on social media. Pat tests the panel's knowledge with a Remembrance Day themed episode of everyone's favourite mostly guessing game, 'name that.'

]]> 29:01 false 422 full TRC #421.5: Darren On Ron Corbett Unscripted Darren On Ron Corbett Unscripted Mon, 31 Oct 2016 16:01:22 +0000 BOO!  We bring you a rebroadcast of Darren's appearance on CFRA News Talk Radio on Halloween, 2013.  He participated in a debate about ghosts, spirits and the paranormal for a special episode of Ron Corbett Unscripted.

]]> BOO! We bring you a rebroadcast of Darren's appearance on CFRA News Talk Radio on Halloween, 2013. He participated in a debate about ghosts, spirits and the paranormal for a special episode of Ron Corbett Unscripted.

]]> 38:33 false 421 full TRC #421: US Election Polls + Fake Academic Papers + Plain Cigarette Packaging US Election Polls + Fake Academic Papers + Plain Cigarette Packaging Fri, 28 Oct 2016 21:58:01 +0000 Darren kicks off the show by taking a look at election polls and their real-world margin of error. Next, Pat digs into predatory publishers and fake academic articles. Lastly, Adam fans the flames on the debate around the effectiveness of plain cigarette packaging after a listener asks TRC to look at "both sides of the argument".  

]]> Darren kicks off the show by taking a look at election polls and their real-world margin of error. Next, Pat digs into predatory publishers and fake academic articles. Lastly, Adam fans the flames on the debate around the effectiveness of plain cigarette packaging after a listener asks TRC to look at "both sides of the argument".

]]> 29:10 false 421 full TRC #420: Origin of 420 + Gem Newman of Bad Science Watch + History Of Halloween Origin of 420 + Gem Newman of Bad Science Watch + History Of Halloween Fri, 21 Oct 2016 19:14:58 +0000 This week Cristina looks into the origin of 420 and its connection to pot. Pat brings us an interview with Gem Newman of Bad Science Watch about proposed new regulation for natural health products and how Canadian Checkers can get involved. Lastly, Darren looks into the interesting history of Halloween.  

]]> This week Cristina looks into the origin of 420 and its connection to pot. Pat brings us an interview with Gem Newman of Bad Science Watch about proposed new regulation for natural health products and how Canadian Checkers can get involved. Lastly, Darren looks into the interesting history of Halloween.

]]> 25:39 false 420 full TRC #419: Are Bees Endangered? + Peanut Butter Deadly To Dogs? + Transcendental Meditation Are Bees Endangered? + Peanut Butter Deadly To Dogs? + Transcendental Meditation Sat, 15 Oct 2016 14:49:51 +0000 This week, Darren delves into all the buzz around headlines citing bees are endangered. Cristina digs into why peanut butter containing xylitol may be deadly to dogs. Finally, Adam enlightens us with a look at transcendental meditation.

]]> This week, Darren delves into all the buzz around headlines citing bees are endangered. Cristina digs into why peanut butter containing xylitol may be deadly to dogs. Finally, Adam enlightens us with a look at transcendental meditation.

]]> 28:28 false 419 full TRC #418: Should You Rake Your Leaves? + Name That: World Producers Edition + The Great Pitbull Debate Should You Rake Your Leaves? + Name That: World Producers Edition + The Great Pitbull Debate Mon, 10 Oct 2016 19:33:17 +0000 On this week's show, Darren arms you with advice on whether it's really necessary to rake your yard leaves and kick them to the curb. Adam bravely gets in the middle of the great pitbull debate.

Lastly, Pat tests the panel's knowledge of top producing countries with another enlightening game of "Name That".

]]> On this week's show, Darren arms you with advice on whether it's really necessary to rake your yard leaves and kick them to the curb. Adam bravely gets in the middle of the great pitbull debate.

Lastly, Pat tests the panel's knowledge of top producing countries with another enlightening game of "Name That".

]]> 30:03 false 418 full TRC #417: Advertorial + Balance Eggs On Equinox + Is Psychology In Crisis? + Did NASA Change Your Zodiac Sign? Advertorial + Balance Eggs On Equinox + Is Psychology In Crisis? + Did NASA Change Your Zodiac Sign? Fri, 30 Sep 2016 15:58:50 +0000 Pat starts the show with a bit of sleuthing about a recent advertorial. A flu stricken Cristina looks into the idea that you can balance an egg on its end during the Equinox. Darren examines whether the field of psychology is in crisis. Adam checks into headlines claiming that NASA has changed the zodiac signs.

]]> Pat starts the show with a bit of sleuthing about a recent advertorial. A flu stricken Cristina looks into the idea that you can balance an egg on its end during the Equinox. Darren examines whether the field of psychology is in crisis. Adam checks into headlines claiming that NASA has changed the zodiac signs.

]]> 30:03 false 417 full TRC #416: Trisodium Phosphate in Kid's Cereal? + Vicks VapoRub + Bottle Flip Physics Trisodium Phosphate in Kid's Cereal? + Vicks VapoRub + Bottle Flip Physics Sat, 24 Sep 2016 14:47:05 +0000 On this week's show, we take on 2 Checker requests. First, Pat explores the claims in a viral video about trisodium phosphate in kid's cereal. Next, Cristina looks at the effectiveness of vapour rubs. Finally, Adam checks the physics of the viral water bottle flip trick making the rounds.

]]> On this week's show, we take on 2 Checker requests. First, Pat explores the claims in a viral video about trisodium phosphate in kid's cereal. Next, Cristina looks at the effectiveness of vapour rubs. Finally, Adam checks the physics of the viral water bottle flip trick making the rounds.

]]> 30:14 false 416 full TRC #415: 22 Push-up Challenge + Name That: Hoax Edition + Are Parents Naming Their Kids After Pokémon? 22 Push-up Challenge + Name That: Hoax Edition + Are Parents Naming Their Kids After Pokémon? Sat, 17 Sep 2016 15:47:22 +0000 Darren explores whether the recent 22 Push-up Challenge making the rounds actually helps veterans. Pat tests the panel's knowledge on hoaxes with another edition of Name That. Finally, Adam looks into whether parents are really naming their babies after Pokémon.

 

]]> Darren explores whether the recent 22 Push-up Challenge making the rounds actually helps veterans. Pat tests the panel's knowledge on hoaxes with another edition of Name That. Finally, Adam looks into whether parents are really naming their babies after Pokémon.

]]> 24:29 false 415 full TRC #414: Talking To Dogs + How Saintly Was Mother Teresa? + Kids' Dream Jobs Study Talking To Dogs + How Saintly Was Mother Teresa? + Kids' Dream Jobs Study Sat, 10 Sep 2016 15:07:17 +0000 It's TRC's 8th birthday! This week, Darren digs into recent headlines that suggest science has confirmed our canine friends understand us. Cristina examines the controversy swirling around the canonization of Mother Teresa. Finally, Adam looks at how a study came up with the 10 most common childhood dream jobs.

]]> It's TRC's 8th birthday! This week, Darren digs into recent headlines that suggest science has confirmed our canine friends understand us. Cristina examines the controversy swirling around the canonization of Mother Teresa. Finally, Adam looks at how a study came up with the 10 most common childhood dream jobs.

]]> 28:07 false 414 full TRC #413: Helium Infused Beer? + Stuart Robbins On Proxima B, SETI Signal, New Horizons + Scrooge McDuck's Money Bin Helium Infused Beer? + Stuart Robbins On Proxima B, SETI Signal, New Horizons + Scrooge McDuck's Money Bin Fri, 02 Sep 2016 20:40:14 +0000 Is helium infused beer really a thing? Pat looks into the science behind a video making the social media rounds. Our favo(u)rite astronomer stops by to answer our questions about the recent exoplanet discovery, mysterious SETI signal, and the latest on New Horizons. Finally, Adam dives in to determine whether Scrooge McDuck could swim in his money bin.

Cheers!

]]> Is helium infused beer really a thing? Pat looks into the science behind a video making the social media rounds. Our favo(u)rite astronomer stops by to answer our questions about the recent exoplanet discovery, mysterious SETI signal, and the latest on New Horizons. Finally, Adam dives in to determine whether Scrooge McDuck could swim in his money bin.

Cheers!

]]> 28:15 false 413 full TRC #412: Do People Read Past A Headline? + Should You Floss? + Is Cancer A Modern Disease? Do People Read Past A Headline? + Should You Floss? + Is Cancer A Modern Disease? Fri, 26 Aug 2016 18:25:10 +0000 Cristina looks into some research asking whether people share articles that they haven't actually read.  Next Darren check into recent headlines suggesting that maybe you shouldn't bother flossing your teeth.  Lastly, Adam examines whether cancer is a modern disease.

]]> Cristina looks into some research asking whether people share articles that they haven't actually read. Next Darren check into recent headlines suggesting that maybe you shouldn't bother flossing your teeth. Lastly, Adam examines whether cancer is a modern disease.

]]> 27:20 false 412 full TRC #411: Olympic Medal Counts + Name That: Olympics + Is Air Conditioning Sexist? Olympic Medal Counts + Name That: Olympics + Is Air Conditioning Sexist? Sat, 20 Aug 2016 15:24:41 +0000 Darren looks into who is really winning the Olympics and whether the way we count medals is fair. Pat tests the panels knowledge of the Olympics with a game of name that. Adam checks out the idea that air conditioning is sexist.

]]> Darren looks into who is really winning the Olympics and whether the way we count medals is fair. Pat tests the panels knowledge of the Olympics with a game of name that. Adam checks out the idea that air conditioning is sexist.

]]> 27:26 false 411 full TRC #410: Iraq Bans Bomb Detectors + Redheads and Pain + More Celebrity Medical Advice Iraq Bans Bomb Detectors + Redheads and Pain + More Celebrity Medical Advice Mon, 08 Aug 2016 14:20:30 +0000 Pat takes a look into the history of the ADE-651 bomb detectors used in Iraq. Next, Darren explores whether people with read hair feel more pain. Lastly, those wacky celebrities are at it again! Cristina fact checks Khloe Kardashian's advice that you should put vitamin E on your V.

]]> Pat takes a look into the history of the ADE-651 bomb detectors used in Iraq. Next, Darren explores whether people with read hair feel more pain. Lastly, those wacky celebrities are at it again! Cristina fact checks Khloe Kardashian's advice that you should put vitamin E on your V.

]]> 28:16 false 410 full TRC #409: Melania Trump vs Science + Pokemon Go + Our Mathematical Universe Melania Trump vs Science + Pokemon Go + Our Mathematical Universe Mon, 01 Aug 2016 15:49:04 +0000 Cristina takes us back to high school to explore the probability that Melania Trump plagiarized part of Michelle Obama's 2008 Democratic convention speech. Adam travels across the land searching far and wide to debunk recent news stories about Pokémon Go. Finally, Darren takes an in depth look at the non-fiction book Our Mathematical Universe by Swedish-American cosmologist Max Tegmark.

]]> Cristina takes us back to high school to explore the probability that Melania Trump plagiarized part of Michelle Obama's 2008 Democratic convention speech. Adam travels across the land searching far and wide to debunk recent news stories about Pokémon Go. Finally, Darren takes an in depth look at the non-fiction book Our Mathematical Universe by Swedish-American cosmologist Max Tegmark.

]]> 39:03 false 409 full TRC #408 - 8 Glasses Of Water A Day + 2016 Celebrity Deaths + Do Cell Phones Cause Cancer? 8 Glasses Of Water A Day + 2016 Celebrity Deaths + Do Cell Phones Cause Cancer? Mon, 25 Jul 2016 19:08:29 +0000 Darren explores the idea that you should drink eight glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and healthy, Cristina looks at whether 2016 has been atypically bad for celebrity deaths and Adam checks into whether cell phones cause cancer.

]]> Darren explores the idea that you should drink eight glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and healthy, Cristina looks at whether 2016 has been atypically bad for celebrity deaths and Adam checks into whether cell phones cause cancer.

]]> 20:59 false 408 full TRC #407: Panelists Disagreeing Mashup - Geeks and glasses + 0.9999 = 1? + Bike Helmet Safety Panelists Disagreeing Mashup - Geeks and glasses + 0.9999 = 1? + Bike Helmet Safety Mon, 04 Jul 2016 15:25:02 +0000 47:22 false 407 full TRC #406: Solar System Mashup - Pluto A Planet? + Planet 9 Discovered Solar System Mashup - Pluto A Planet? + Planet 9 Discovered Mon, 27 Jun 2016 15:11:24 +0000 With the full crew on vacation, we bring you a special mashup episode featuring honorary TRC panelist Dr. Stuart Robbins of the Exposing PsuedoAstronomy blog and podcast.   First Stu takes the panel through the history of what we call planets and also addresses a listener email about the decision to reclassify Pluto.   Next he breaks down news headlines that claim astronomers have found a 9th planet in our solar system.  

]]> With the full crew on vacation, we bring you a special mashup episode featuring honorary TRC panelist Dr. Stuart Robbins of the Exposing PsuedoAstronomy blog and podcast. First Stu takes the panel through the history of what we call planets and also addresses a listener email about the decision to reclassify Pluto. Next he breaks down news headlines that claim astronomers have found a 9th planet in our solar system.

]]> 37:19 false 406 full TRC: Special Announcement TRC: Special Announcement Fri, 17 Jun 2016 12:41:17 +0000 The TRC crew is taking a well earned week off however we did want to share some exciting news with you.

]]> The TRC crew is taking a well earned week off however we did want to share some exciting news with you.

]]> 01:45 false full TRC #405: Spoon Bending 101 + Hillary vs. Bernie + Changing O Canada Spoon Bending 101 + Hillary vs. Bernie + Changing O Canada Sat, 11 Jun 2016 14:14:18 +0000 This week, Cristina gives us the scoop on a spoon bending workshop at the University of Alberta using nothing but the power of her mind. Darren looks behind the Hillary vs. Bernie democratic race to parse out the facts. Finally, Adam shows his patriotism by looking at the history of our anthem O Canada and the movement to make the lyrics gender-neutral.

]]> This week, Cristina gives us the scoop on a spoon bending workshop at the University of Alberta using nothing but the power of her mind. Darren looks behind the Hillary vs. Bernie democratic race to parse out the facts. Finally, Adam shows his patriotism by looking at the history of our anthem O Canada and the movement to make the lyrics gender-neutral.

]]> 27:35 false 405 full TRC #404: Lunar Effect + Name That: Apollo Missions + Are The Stars We See Dead? Lunar Effect + Name That: Apollo Missions + Are The Stars We See Dead? Fri, 03 Jun 2016 16:21:39 +0000 This week's show is all about space! Cristina looks into a listener email questioning whether the lunar cycle somehow influences human behaviour. Next, Pat delivers another game of Name That, testing the panel's knowledge of the Apollo missions. Lastly, Adam checks out yet another listener email about whether the stars we see at night are so old that many of them are dead.

]]> This week's show is all about space! Cristina looks into a listener email questioning whether the lunar cycle somehow influences human behaviour. Next, Pat delivers another game of Name That, testing the panel's knowledge of the Apollo missions. Lastly, Adam checks out yet another listener email about whether the stars we see at night are so old that many of them are dead.

]]> 27:11 false 404 full TRC #403: Lamb Of God Vs Joel Osteen + ElbowGate + Dogs Detect Low Blood Sugar? Lamb Of God Vs Joel Osteen + ElbowGate + Dogs Detect Low Blood Sugar? Fri, 27 May 2016 16:18:39 +0000 On this week's show, Pat looks into social media posts suggesting that heavy metal band, Lamb of God, received an award from televangelist Joel Osteen.  Next Darren digs into ElbowGate, where the Canadian Prime Minister is accused of manhandling Gordon Brown and elbowing Ruth-Ellen Brosseau.   Lastly, Adam examines claims that dogs can detect low blood sugar in people with diabetes.  

]]> On this week's show, Pat looks into social media posts suggesting that heavy metal band, Lamb of God, received an award from televangelist Joel Osteen. Next Darren digs into ElbowGate, where the Canadian Prime Minister is accused of manhandling Gordon Brown and elbowing Ruth-Ellen Brosseau. Lastly, Adam examines claims that dogs can detect low blood sugar in people with diabetes.

]]> 26:25 false 403 full TRC #402: Helping Or Hurting Wildlife? + Is Uber A Scam? + Did A Teen Find A Lost Mayan City? Helping Or Hurting Wildlife? + Is Uber A Scam? + Did A Teen Find A Lost Mayan City? Fri, 20 May 2016 16:45:47 +0000 On this week's show, Darren examines recent stories about people who put a baby bison in their car in Yellowstone National Park.  Next, Cristina does the math on how much Uber drivers really make.   Last, Adam fact checks headlines claiming that a Quebec teenager found a lost Mayan city.

]]> On this week's show, Darren examines recent stories about people who put a baby bison in their car in Yellowstone National Park. Next, Cristina does the math on how much Uber drivers really make. Last, Adam fact checks headlines claiming that a Quebec teenager found a lost Mayan city.

]]> 27:08 false 402 full TRC #401: Did Apple Steal Your Music? + Disaster Relief + Catterbox Did Apple Steal Your Music? + Disaster Relief + Catterbox Fri, 13 May 2016 23:53:24 +0000 On this week's show, Pat looks into a recent story making the rounds on the internet about Apple stealing your music. Next, Darren revisits the best way to give during a disaster on the heels of the Fort McMurray wildfires. Finally, Adam talks about...what else? Cats! Is there really a new cat collar that will translate your cat's meows? Collar me skeptical.

]]> On this week's show, Pat looks into a recent story making the rounds on the internet about Apple stealing your music. Next, Darren revisits the best way to give during a disaster on the heels of the Fort McMurray wildfires. Finally, Adam talks about...what else? Cats! Is there really a new cat collar that will translate your cat's meows? Collar me skeptical.

]]> 28:21 false 401 full TRC #400: Panel Questions + Do Dogs Hate Hugs? + Alberta Toddler Meningitis Case Panel Questions + Do Dogs Hate Hugs? + Alberta Toddler Meningitis Case Sat, 07 May 2016 11:33:59 +0000 In celebration of our 400th episode, we take on a couple of listener questions. Then Adam looks into whether your dog really hates it when you give them a hug. Lastly Cristina leads the panel in a discussion about the recent conviction of two Alberta parents who were found guilty in their 19-month-old son's death from meningitis.

]]> In celebration of our 400th episode, we take on a couple of listener questions. Then Adam looks into whether your dog really hates it when you give them a hug. Lastly Cristina leads the panel in a discussion about the recent conviction of two Alberta parents who were found guilty in their 19-month-old son's death from meningitis.

]]> 30:08 false 400 full TRC #399: Free Throw Distraction + Differentiating Science From Pseudoscience + Do Politicians Keep Promises Free Throw Distraction + Differentiating Science From Pseudoscience + Do Politicians Keep Promises Fri, 29 Apr 2016 18:48:20 +0000 The whole crew is back together.  First Pat examines whether fans can affect the outcome of  basketball games by distracting players who are taking free throws. Next Darren looks into the demarcation problem in the philosophy of science. Lastly Cristina checks up on how well politicians do with keeping their campaign promises.   

]]> The whole crew is back together. First Pat examines whether fans can affect the outcome of basketball games by distracting players who are taking free throws. Next Darren looks into the demarcation problem in the philosophy of science. Lastly Cristina checks up on how well politicians do with keeping their campaign promises.

]]> 29:37 false 399 full TRC #398: The Physics of Superheroes + Name That: High School Edition + Green Moon The Physics of Superheroes + Name That: High School Edition + Green Moon Fri, 22 Apr 2016 22:58:39 +0000 While Adam is galavanting in Europe, “Physics Commando” Barry Panas joins the crew to school us on the physics of superheroes. Pat discovers who showed up in class with a game of Name That: High School Quiz Edition. Finally, Darren investigates whether there’s any truth to a claim making the rounds on the internet about a rare green moon.

]]> While Adam is galavanting in Europe, “Physics Commando” Barry Panas joins the crew to school us on the physics of superheroes. Pat discovers who showed up in class with a game of Name That: High School Quiz Edition. Finally, Darren investigates whether there’s any truth to a claim making the rounds on the internet about a rare green moon.

]]> 32:01 false 398 full TRC #397: Star Wars Droids with Jim Davies + Misleading Terms In Psych Fields + Star Wars Myths Star Wars Droids with Jim Davies + Misleading Terms In Psych Fields + Star Wars Myths Sat, 16 Apr 2016 13:33:10 +0000 Friend of the show Jim Davies joins us this week to explore our psychology, and often conflicted feelings, about droids in the Stars Wars universe. Cristina schools us in terms often misused when reporting psychological science. Finally, Adam rounds out this week’s Geek factor by debunking some popular Star Wars myths.

]]> Friend of the show Jim Davies joins us this week to explore our psychology, and often conflicted feelings, about droids in the Stars Wars universe. Cristina schools us in terms often misused when reporting psychological science. Finally, Adam rounds out this week’s Geek factor by debunking some popular Star Wars myths.

]]> 34:53 false 397 full TRC #396: French's Ketchup Better For Ontario? + Misleading Headlines + China Bans April Fools'? French's Ketchup Better For Ontario? + Misleading Headlines + China Bans April Fools'? Fri, 08 Apr 2016 18:01:41 +0000 Adam squeezes the truth out of rumours that French’s Ketchup, rather than Heinz, is supporting Ontario industries.  Next Cristina looks into whether readers are influenced by misleading headlines, even if they read the full article.  Lastly Darren checks into reports that China has banned April Fools’ day.  

]]> Adam squeezes the truth out of rumours that French’s Ketchup, rather than Heinz, is supporting Ontario industries. Next Cristina looks into whether readers are influenced by misleading headlines, even if they read the full article. Lastly Darren checks into reports that China has banned April Fools’ day.

]]> 31:22 false 396 full TRC #395: Tribeca vs Vaxxed + Double-Dipping + Tay: Microsoft's AI "Racist" Chatbot + Energy-Infused Beauty Products Tribeca vs Vaxxed + Double-Dipping + Tay: Microsoft's AI "Racist" Chatbot + Energy-Infused Beauty Products Sat, 02 Apr 2016 13:59:23 +0000 Darren kicks off the show with a quick panel discussion about Tribeca Film Festival’s decision to pull a controversial documentary linking vaccines with autism from their line-up. Next, Pat dives right into a listener email about double-dipping. Adam looks into how the internet corrupted Microsoft’s innocent new AI chatbot Tay in less than 24 hours. Finally, Cristina gets goopy with a segment about energy-infused beauty products.

]]> Darren kicks off the show with a quick panel discussion about Tribeca Film Festival’s decision to pull a controversial documentary linking vaccines with autism from their line-up. Next, Pat dives right into a listener email about double-dipping. Adam looks into how the internet corrupted Microsoft’s innocent new AI chatbot Tay in less than 24 hours. Finally, Cristina gets goopy with a segment about energy-infused beauty products.

]]> 32:23 false 395 full TRC #394: Money & Happiness + An Evening With Neil deGrasse Tyson + How Is Easter Sunday Determined? Money & Happiness + An Evening With Neil deGrasse Tyson + How Is Easter Sunday Determined? Fri, 25 Mar 2016 18:46:07 +0000 Happy March Equinox, Checkers! This week, Darren delves into the age-old question, does more money really make us happier? Pat and Cristina give a recap of An Evening With Neil deGrasse Tyson in Toronto. Finally, Adam hops right into a segment about how Easter is determined.

]]> Happy March Equinox, Checkers! This week, Darren delves into the age-old question, does more money really make us happier? Pat and Cristina give a recap of An Evening With Neil deGrasse Tyson in Toronto. Finally, Adam hops right into a segment about how Easter is determined.

]]> 30:45 false 394 full TRC #393: Talking Mirrors with Barry Panas + Clinton Onion Conspiracy + Splenda vs Cancer Talking Mirrors with Barry Panas + Clinton Onion Conspiracy + Splenda vs Cancer Fri, 18 Mar 2016 18:29:53 +0000 Very special guest Barry “Physics Commando” Panas reflects on whether mirrors reverse left and right. Next, Adam peels back the layers on a conspiracy about The Onion and Hillary Clinton. Lastly, Cristina sweetens things up by looking at a recent study claiming Splenda causes cancer.

]]> Very special guest Barry “Physics Commando” Panas reflects on whether mirrors reverse left and right. Next, Adam peels back the layers on a conspiracy about The Onion and Hillary Clinton. Lastly, Cristina sweetens things up by looking at a recent study claiming Splenda causes cancer.

]]> 34:25 false 393 full TRC #392: Is 4K TV Worth It? + Is Trump Really A Good Businessman? Is 4K TV Worth It? + Is Trump Really A Good Businessman? Sat, 12 Mar 2016 10:30:53 +0000 This week, Adam takes an in-depth look into 4K resolution TVs and whether taking the plunge is worth it. Next, Darren examines whether Donald Trump is as successful at business as he claims to be.  

]]> This week, Adam takes an in-depth look into 4K resolution TVs and whether taking the plunge is worth it. Next, Darren examines whether Donald Trump is as successful at business as he claims to be.

]]> 27:09 false 392 full TRC #391: Apple Retro 1970 Bug + Hitler's Micropenis? + Leap Year Revisited + Video Gaming's First Transgender Character Apple Retro 1970 Bug + Hitler's Micropenis? + Leap Year Revisited + Video Gaming's First Transgender Character Sat, 05 Mar 2016 14:58:09 +0000 Go Skeptic, it’s your podcast! This week, Pat squashes the recent iPhone retro 1970 Bug making the rounds. Darren points a skeptical lens at current news stories suggesting Hitler suffered from a condition that affected the size of his penis. Cristina jumps in to school us on the origins of Leap Year. Finally, Adam respawns an old theory regarding who gaming's first transgender character is, and reminds us how good he looks in red.

]]> Go Skeptic, it’s your podcast! This week, Pat squashes the recent iPhone retro 1970 Bug making the rounds. Darren points a skeptical lens at current news stories suggesting Hitler suffered from a condition that affected the size of his penis. Cristina jumps in to school us on the origins of Leap Year. Finally, Adam respawns an old theory regarding who gaming's first transgender character is, and reminds us how good he looks in red.

]]> 30:49 false 391 full TRC #390: Is The Solar System A Vortex? + Peanut Butter vs Alzheimer's + Sitting Too Close To The TV Is The Solar System A Vortex? + Peanut Butter vs Alzheimer's + Sitting Too Close To The TV Fri, 26 Feb 2016 17:37:38 +0000 Darren examines a video, that recently resurfaced, revolving around the premise that the solar system is a vortex. Cristina sniffs out the facts on recent reports that peanut butter could be used for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, Adam takes a look at whether watching television close-up can harm your eyesight.

]]> Darren examines a video, that recently resurfaced, revolving around the premise that the solar system is a vortex. Cristina sniffs out the facts on recent reports that peanut butter could be used for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, Adam takes a look at whether watching television close-up can harm your eyesight.

]]> 27:01 false 390 full TRC #389: Left-Right Confusion + Cats Meow Only At Humans? + Superforecasting Review Left-Right Confusion + Cats Meow Only At Humans? + Superforecasting Review Sat, 20 Feb 2016 16:06:16 +0000 On this week’s show, Pat hands us an interesting segment about why some people have trouble telling their left from their right.  Adam “mewses” whether adult cats only meow at humans and not each other. Finally, Darren predicts you may find the recent book Superforecasting:The Art and Science of Prediction by Philip Tetlock and Dan Gardner well worth a read.

]]> On this week’s show, Pat hands us an interesting segment about why some people have trouble telling their left from their right. Adam “mewses” whether adult cats only meow at humans and not each other. Finally, Darren predicts you may find the recent book Superforecasting:The Art and Science of Prediction by Philip Tetlock and Dan Gardner well worth a read.

]]> 42:46 false 389 full TRC #388: Science vs "Resting Bitch Face" + Death By Super Bowl? + Gravity Of Melting Ice Science vs "Resting Bitch Face" + Death By Super Bowl? + Gravity Of Melting Ice Sat, 13 Feb 2016 15:09:04 +0000 Just admit it, Checkers. That first segment title caught your eye and you knew Adam was back!  Adam raises a skeptical eyebrow at recent headlines claiming real science behind “Resting Bitch Face”. Cristina runs with a new study regarding the fate of fans in cities whose teams play in the Super Bowl. Finally, Darren unearths whether Greenland’s ice melt could actually change our gravity field. Really? Listen to find out!

]]> Just admit it, Checkers. That first segment title caught your eye and you knew Adam was back! Adam raises a skeptical eyebrow at recent headlines claiming real science behind “Resting Bitch Face”. Cristina runs with a new study regarding the fate of fans in cities whose teams play in the Super Bowl. Finally, Darren unearths whether Greenland’s ice melt could actually change our gravity field. Really? Listen to find out!

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