The website will change but the link will remain the same. So, be sure to keep www.actuallyspeaking.com bookmarked for future reference. And be sure to follow me on Twitter (@factually) for the latest updates.

Oh, and don't forget to check out the OTHER podcast I produce... Aaron' World. It's a science podcast for kids that I produce with my 7yo son. If you have or know kids that like pre-historic animals... they'll love it!

Whether you're new or a regular listener, you'll notice that the time between episodes has lengthened considerably. No, the podcast hasn't faded away. In fact, my level of podcasting has actually increased considerably... which is part of the problem.

As most of you know, I do another podcast called "Aaron's World" which is a science show for kids. I never intended to do a second podcast so the popularity of AW was unexpected and caught me off guard. Well, I have a limited amount of time each week I can dedicate to podcasting and Aaron's World easily takes 4x that amount. My 6yo and I LOVE doing the show... but it's time consuming.

Fortunately, Actually Speaking isn't a podcast that loses potency after episodes are released. The episodes hold up over time and are best viewed as a whole. I like to think of it more like an audiobook with new chapters released as they become available. And more chapters are mapped out.

So, thank you for your patience as Actually Speaking episodes have become less frequent. I need to ask for just a little more patience while I try to find a manageable balance between the two podcasts and explore my options.

Until then... stay subscribed and spread the word about existing content. Whether a year ago OR a year from now... communication skill training is just as applicable. And if you have any thoughts or suggestions, feel free to send them my way.

Mike

Don't worry, a new episode will be out shortly. But you'll have to wait just a little bit longer. I'm heading out to "The Amazing Meeting 8" (TAM) this week. I can't wait. My skeptical batteries certainly need a bit of charging!

If you're tapped into the skeptical community, there should be no shortage of TAM info flowing your way this week. If you'd like one more source, feel free to follow me via Twitter (@factually) for my own tidbits of info.

Mike

P.S. In the next episode we're going to learn what the "helping process" (as opposed to lecturing and criticizing) and critical thinking have in common. HINT: everything!!!

If you’re interested and have a moment to spare, simply record an audio response to the following question and email it to actuallyspeaking@gmail.com by June 4th.

What do you find to be the most challenging and draining aspect of living skeptically in your daily life? Where do you turn for support? How do you recharge your skeptical batteries?

Due to the short nature of the podcast, try to keep audio responses brief (1-2 minutes).  Audio recorded and emailed from your phone should be just fine.

This is the type of topic that greatly benefits from additional voices, thoughts and ideas. It helps remind us that we’re not alone in our skeptical struggles.

Thanks,

Mike



Aaron's World provides bite-sized episodes of science and fun for kids. You can find the podcast episodes on this website, on iTunes or by visiting Aaron's podcast website.

And if you'd like to hear a little more about Aaron, the podcast and his love of dinosaurs... check out episode #128 of the Skepticality podcast for a really fun interview.

We hope you and your kids enjoy the show. If you'd like to send feedback or questions feel free to send it to Daddy's email at actuallyspeaking@gmail.com

This podcast is different than most. We set the science aside (metaphorically) and explore the human side of skepticism. Episodes are released every other week and intended to compliment the various science and skepticism podcasts already in your playlist. Scientific facts are only part of the equation... its my goal to help you take an extra step and learn how to effectively share that information with others.

The podcast is relatively new with only a handful of episodes. While each is independent, I think you'll get the most out of them in order. But do take a break between episodes if possible to give yourself a chance to think and reflect on the skills discussed. One of our listeners offered this tip in order to get the most out of each episode (thanks, Anita!).

I'm relatively new to the podcasting world and still getting my feet wet. But my brain has been busy thinking of ways to grow the podcast and I welcome any suggestions you might have. The inclusion of interviews has been the #1 request. Hmmm? Do you think I can get some familiar skeptical figures to "set science aside"? Some... definitely! Others might be a challenge. We'll have to wait and see.

But first, I need to get through the first 10 (or so) episodes which cover some of the basic skills we need before moving forward. Next week, we'll be exploring the topic of "Challenge & Support" and how it can be utilized to promote growth in individuals, organizations and communities.

Remember, I'm no expert. But I do have some related skills and experiences you might find helpful. I'm trying to figure out how to live skeptically as well. And I'm happy to have the opportunity to share that process with you.

Thanks for listening!

To My Democrat Friends:
I wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2010, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great. Not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country nor the only America in the Western Hemisphere . Also, this wish is made without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith or sexual preference of the wish.

To My Republican Friends:
Happy New Year!

There are many variations to it and I believe the "Merry Christmas" version is the most common. It's obviously intended as an insult to a more "politically correct" style of thinking (apprently only associated with Democrats). It mocks political correctness by contrasting it with what is believed to be a simpler alternative. And in the "Merry Christmas" version, it clearly has a pro-religion message.

Every time I see this I can't help but be struck by how backwards this insult is. In my eyes, it shows very clearly how thinking of others takes actual work and effort. While thinking only of yourself is a path taking little or no effort at all.

Whether looking at this from a religious or political perspective... doesn't this simply make the person (party or religion) doing the posting look bad?

I suppose the insult is in the eye of the beholder. As for me, while not being associated with any political party or religion, I'm proud to be in the category that makes an effort on behalf of others.

Happy New Year!

We'll revisit "Realistic Expecations" in Ep 3 (because you demanded MORE) and then move into "Critical Thinking" in Ep 4.

We've got a lot to talk about in 2010 and I'm anxious to get started.  Have a safe and Happy New Year!

Skeptically Speaking - Episode #38 - Microbiology

And if you'd like to keep up to date via Twitter you can follow me at @factually

Enjoy!

I tested this on my Mac and it worked fine. Hope you have the same results.

Mike