Since 2006, the weekly Skeptoid podcast has been taking on all the most popular urban legends and revealing the true science, true history, and true lessons we can learn from each. Skeptoid is a listener supported501(c)(3) nonprofit. Learn more
This ancient weapon of terror struck fear throughout the ancient world, and stokes a number of mysteries today.
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Recent Programs
Facilitated Communication Isn't Episode 831, May 10, 2022 This discredited technique deceives loved ones into believing non-communicative people are able to communicate just fine by hiring one of these facilitators.
The Mystical Death of Jack Parsons Episode 830, May 3, 2022 The complicated life of JPL's co-founder meant that his death was almost certain to be cloaked in conspiracy theories.
What ASMR Will Do for You Episode 829, April 26, 2022 What is the state of the science behind this online video genre that combines relaxation with chills and shivers?
Why You Don't Want a Flat-Faced Pet Episode 828, April 19, 2022 The science shows that dogs and cats bred to be flat-faced suffer from respiratory distress, but some argue otherwise.
What Really Happened on Easter Island Episode 827, April 12, 2022 The popular known history of Easter Island — that deforestation brought about its demise — is not generally accepted.
Why the Fresno Nightcrawler Is So Popular Episode 826, April 5, 2022 This relatively new and not-so-famous cryptid manages to have an outsized pop-culture footprint.
How Psychic Readings Work Episode 825, March 29, 2022 Whether cold reading, warm reading, or hot, there are simple explanations for even the most impressive psychic performances.
Demystifying the Winchester Mystery House Episode 824, March 22, 2022 The unfortunate false narrative of the Winchester Mystery House obscures a wonderful story of one of California's great women pioneers.
Hunting the Elusive Rogue Wave Episode 823, March 15, 2022 Modern authors say that scientists didn't used to accept the idea of rogue waves. Is that true?
On Washboarded Roads Episode 822, March 8, 2022 The real cause of washboarding on dirt roads is very different from the traditionally believed reason.
Forensic (Pseudo) Science Episode 821, March 1, 2022 All those fancy-sounding forensic sciences you've come to trust might not be worth very much of your trust after all.
On Railroad Tracks and Roman Chariots Episode 818, February 8, 2022 The urban legend that train track gauge descends from Roman war chariots falls apart at every link in the chain.
Your Ghostliest Tales, Explained Episode 817, February 1, 2022 In which we hear, analyze, and attempt to explain the ghostly personal stories you've sent in.
The Dark Side of Polyvagal Theory Episode 816, January 25, 2022 A controversial mental health framework is also being peddled by unqualified coaches.
On the Trail of the Chupacabra Episode 815, January 18, 2022 An exploration into the chupacabra, and how that word came to be applied to so many unrelated things.
Nazis and the Occult Episode 814, January 11, 2022 Popular tales of the occult underpinnings of the Nazis are largely modern fiction.
Why You Need to Care About Concrete Episode 813, January 4, 2022 Concrete will remain one of our most important materials for decades — but there's a big problem with it.
20 Years of Data from Portugal: Drug Decriminalization Episode 812, December 28, 2021 20 years ago, Portugal decriminalized all drugs in an effort to reduce addiction, incarceration, and negative health impacts. How has it worked?
Radon Therapy Episode 811, December 21, 2021 Trying to treat pain or cancer by exposing yourself to a radioactive carcinogen provides only risk without the benefit.
Frida Sofia, the Victim Who Wasn't Episode 810, December 14, 2021 After the 2017 earthquake in Mexico City, rescuers dug through the rubble for a little girl named Frida Sofia — who never existed.
The Avro Arrow Conspiracies Episode 809, December 7, 2021 Conspiracy theories surround the cancellation of this advanced Canadian aircraft from the 1950s.
Followups and Extras Episode 808, November 30, 2021 Some new facts and extra information on six previous episodes.
What Greek Fire Really Was
