Episode 90: James Underdown - Skeptical Maven

Published: Sept. 28, 2020, 7 a.m.

In this episode Heather interviews\xa0James Underdown, Executive Director of the Center for Inquiry-Los Angeles, paranormal investigator, podcast host, and writer.\xa0\n\nTune-in to hear their conversation on:\n"Skepticism is not the same as cynicism, which is not the same as denialism." - James' work with the Center for Inquiry and what the goals of the CFI are.\n"Oh, man, it's convoluted." - How stand-up comedy, filmmaking and playwriting eventually led James to a career at the CFI.\n"We get the least amount of time and have to exercise the most patience of anyone on the show" - From calling out psychics to debunking flat-earthers, James often appears as a guest on TV programs as a skeptic, often leaving him feeling like the wet blanket.\n"It's basically the same set of things that you value for humanity." - James breaks down what atheists, humanists and secular humanists are.\n"The scientific world's PR people have not been the best over the years." - How skeptics get a bad rap and why they are so important, especially in these times.\n"And I proceeded to lie me a$$ off to him." - How being held back in Sunday school and his first confession sparked the skepticism that drives him now.