Another year closes its doors, and we look forward to 2016.  In advance of the New Year holiday, we take a look back at many of the people and events that defined the past twelve months. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

David Silverman is a self-proclaimed "atheist billboard" and "firebrand atheist."  As President of American Atheists, he has been at the point position on many controversial issues (and the occasional lawsuit), and he has just released a new book called, "Fighting God: An Atheist Manifesto for a Religious World."David spoke with Seth Andrews about the book, the lightning rod of David's particular brand of activism, and the rise of non-belief in America.  This conversation can also be seen on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/9aSyjQjC2yoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.harrys.com (promo code: thinkingatheist)This will be the last radio podcast until the Christmas holiday.  It's a romp around the globe, as we explore some Christmas traditions beyond Santa, Frosty the Snowman, holiday ham, and the baby Jesus. Get ready for Christmas witches, fried chicken feasts, Festivus ("for the rest of us"), the Spanish pooper, and of course, the Krampus.Seth writes about the Krampus (and many other things) in his book, "Sacred Cows: a Lighthearted Look at Belief and Tradition Around the World."Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

This is a 30-minute conversation between Seth Andrews and YouTube activist Steve Shives, recorded recently at the Pennsylvania Atheist/Humanist Conference in Harrisburg, PA.  Video of this conversation can be seen here:  https://youtu.be/2Q4Yv3rgv-0Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.evolvefish.com"War On Christmas" has been used so much in the media, it has become a parody of itself.  And yet many still hold to the belief that the baby Jesus is under attack by atheists and secular humanists, and the protests sound at full volume every December.In this broadcast, we talk about some of the noise out there, and we speak to Andrew Seidel of the Freedom From Religion Foundation about the holiday, church/state separation, lawsuits over nativity scenes, atheist holiday celebrations and more.Andrew Siedel onFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Andrew-L-Seidel-750945458347916/?fref=tsTwitter:  @AndrewLSeidelCHRISTMAS: BEHIND THE CURTAIN:YouTube:  https://youtu.be/kenbgMjRvlYFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/seth.andrews.31/videos/vb.100001992705053/931270510282697/?type=2&theaterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

From time to time, we do an unscripted broadcast where the listeners provide the theme and content.  This is one of those shows.  Lots of random stuff in here.  Enjoy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

This podcast features the audio from Seth Andrews' presentation at FreeFlo 2015, the Freethought Florida Conference in Orlando.  The speech is an often lighthearted (but occasionally alarming) exploration of "sacred" ideas and practices in the 21st century, and it explores the merits of retiring damaging rituals in favor of better ones.SPEECH VIDEO:  https://youtu.be/biBULlkmBFEVIDEO WITH NATHAN PHELPS "Something Beautiful":  https://youtu.be/L6IPFyHEv3o  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Religious parents and institutions know the importance of a child's developmental years, and how difficult it is to tell/sell supernatural claims once the child reaches his or her teen years.  In this podcast, Seth Andrews explores the "programming" of young minds, and explores the difference between education and indoctrination.  Capping the show is the personal story of a young woman named Kaitlyn, whose apostasy prompted her devout Mormon parents to kick her out of her home.The Tiny Thinkers project:  https://www.gofundme.com/tinythinkersBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Steve Hill, Maryellen Hooper and Keith Lowell Jensen are professional comedians.  They are also atheists.In this roundtable discussion, Seth Andrews asks them about life on the road (and the stage), how their non-belief in the supernatural influences their material, facing the hecklers, and their desires to make people laugh while, perhaps, also making them think.Steve Hill:   http://www.stevehillcomic.comMaryellen Hooper:  http://www.maryellenhooper.comKeith Lowell Jensen:  http://www.rockass.netVideo link to "Evolution: What the Fossils Say" from Seth's monologue:  https://youtu.be/DjFgcOId-ZYBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.harrys.com (promo code: thinkingatheist)Is it possible to "talk someone out of their faith?"  Is it even appropriate or worthwhile to make an attempt?  If so, how might atheists best approach those with deep-seated (and often lifelong) religious convictions to foster real discourse and encourage critical thinking?Dr. Peter Boghossian is author of the book, "A Manual for Creating Atheists."  Anthony Magnabosco is a YouTube activist and advocate of "street epistemology."  Both men join Seth Andrews for this interesting discussion.Miguel Video  https://youtu.be/D8LYTy4DmEsJamil Video  https://youtu.be/_99dy6doEqsMakayla Video  http://youtu.be/F_3ys05tReUBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Halloween is almost upon us, which means it's time again to turn down the lights, crank up the podcast, and share some ghost stories.Yes, skeptics can enjoy ghost stories, and this annual tradition has become hugely popular with the TTA audience.  So prepare to enter a world of ghosts, ghouls, footsteps in the dark, whispers from under the bed, and things that go bump in the night.Happy Halloween!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Why do we become afraid?  Is it rational or irrational to fear the dark, spiders, the boogeyman, the things that go bump in the night?It's October, the month of frights. So, a week in advance of our Ghost Stories episode, we expore the concept of fear, and we talk about the things that keep us awake in the still of the night (or in the light of the day).  Special thanks to our special guest: Dr. Carolyn Rodriguez of Stanford University.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Christianity.  Where did it come from?  Who wrote the books of the Bible?  Is there any evidence for a god or man named Jesus?  Why has Christianity remained so popular over the ages?  This podcast features two interviews, conducted by Seth Andrews, with historians and researchers who speak about the origins the New Testament Gospels, the ever-changing face of Christianity, history versus myth, and the Jesus storyIn separate interviews, David Fitzgerald and Dr. Robert Carrier each tackle the Bible and its deity.  VIDEO VERSIONS ON YouTube:DR. CARRIER:  https://youtu.be/WXou9IcH2BE  FITZGERALD:  https://youtu.be/DgPrKHsRpJ8  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR: http://www.audiblepodcast.com/thinkingatheistMuhammad Syed is the executive director and Sarah Haider is director of development of Ex-Muslims of North America.  Both are former Muslims.  Armin Navabi is a former Muslim from Iran and the founder of Atheist Republic.In this broadcast, the panel speaks with Seth Andrews about Islam, radical Islamism, cultural Muslims, "The Religion of Peace," the widely conflicting perspectives on Islam, and the difficult and often dangerous road faced by the apostate.Ex-Muslims of North America:  http://www.exmna.orgAtheist Republic:  http://www.atheistrepublic.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistChris Matheson was co-screenwriter on the 1989 comedy film, "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure."  Chris' most recent adventure is an exploration of the Christian holy book, rewriting the "sacred" texts and releasing his synopsis of scripture as the new book, "The Story of God: a Biblical Comedy about Love (and Hate).In this broadcast, Seth speaks with Chris about his sarcastic (yet accurate) take on the Bible, and he finishes the show by reading an excerpt from the book.  Enjoy.CHRIS' BOOK ON AMAZON:  http://www.amazon.com/Story-God-Biblical-Comedy-about/dp/1634310241/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1442329908&sr=8-1&keywords=the+story+of+godBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  audiblepodcast.com/thinkingatheistA listener on the TTA Facebook page recently asked Seth Andrews to respond to a "Letter to the Editor" posted in Seth's hometown paper, the Tulsa World.  Usually, as skeptics, we let these kinds of posts slide, because they often don't accomplish much and/or they generate more trouble that they're worth.But in this case, Seth responded, and this show chronicles the exchange, the fallout, and the curious tactics of the indignant commenters who couldn't prove the god they were defending.Yes...it's a rant.  (Gonna be one of those shows.)  Enjoy.Sam Harris: An Atheist Manifesto:  http://www.truthdig.com/dig/item/200512_an_atheist_manifestoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistGretta Vosper has been an atheist for many years, and she preaches/teaches from the perspective of a Bible skeptic, a rationalist, a humanist, and a non-believer in a literal god.  Now, the United Church of Canada is considering her removal from church leadership because of her atheism.  In this broadcast, we talk with Gretta personally and ask: Why does an atheist minister belong in a church? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Support our sponsor:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistPenn Jillette is half of the hugely popular duo, "Penn & Teller."  Over the decades, he's done appearances on Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show, Letterman, The Simpsons, The West Wing, Babylon 5, Fear Factor and a host of other shows.  Penn & Teller's Showtime series "Bullshit" ran for 8 seasons, and they're the feature show at Las Vegas' Rio casino.  Penn, like his on-stage partner, is a fearless critic of the Bible and claims of the supernatural.In advance of his appearance at Apostacon in Dallas on September 18, 2015, Penn Jillette joined Seth Andrews for a casual conversation about God, atheism, magic and much more.Penn & Teller website:  http://pennandteller.netPenn's Sunday School:  http://pennsundayschool.comApostacon:  http://www.apostacon.orghttp://www.apostacon.orgVIDEO of this interview:  https://youtu.be/2lbBtUcJ1y0Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.harrys.com (coupon code: thinkingatheist)Relating to Chaos Theory, the term "butterfly effect" relates to the tiniest of influences leading to large differences in deterministic nonlinear systems.  One incarnation of the saying suggests that one flap of a single butterfly's wings in Beijing might change the weather in New York.  (Perhaps you remember Jurassic Park's Ian Malcolm waxing about Chaos Theory in advance of the park's inevitable meltdown.)We're not spending much time on the hard science of Chaos Theory.  This show is more interested in the stories - the human stories - about the small intersections of life, the tiny changes, the unexpected encounters which changed the trajectory of people's lives.What was a moment or encounter which seemed inconsequential at the moment, but ultimately came to re-frame and re-define you?  Share your stories and perspective at [email protected] a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistWhat is "transgender?"  How is sexual identity determined?  What are the challenges and opportunites facing those who don't fit into established cultural definitions of gender?  What is this all about?In this broadcast, we get an education and have some frank and positive discussion on the issue.  Joining us is Stephanie Guttormson of the Richard Dawkins Foundation and Thinking Stephtically, YouTube activist Zinnia Jones, Callie Wright of the Gaytheist Manifesto podcast, and activist Danielle Muscato...all transgender individuals.GoFundMe page for the 19-year-old ex-cult member:  http://www.gofundme.com/7c23etf3Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistWhat's on your mind?  Well...this is your chance to sound off.  Call the broadcast to speak with Seth Andrews, or send an email to [email protected] Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistThis show is dedicated to the more unusual, bizarre, weird, wild, and often jaw-droppingly offensive apologetics defenses of religious beliefs.  What's most surprising is that many making these claims aren't actually deviating very far from the edicts of their various religions and holy texts.  Steve Shives' YouTube page:  https://www.youtube.com/user/stevelikes2curseSteve and Stuffy Burn In Hell:  https://youtu.be/_wYzh7WGxCAGod of Evolution article: "Theory of Evolution Disproven by Video Posted on Facebook"  http://www.godofevolution.com/theory-of-evolution-disproven-by-video-posted-on-facebook/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.evolvefish.comSHOP THE TTA STORE:  http://www.evolvefish.com/The-Thinking-Atheist-s/1840.htmWait.  Sex addiction is a myth?  This podcast features two major parts:1)  The June 20th, 2015 presentation by Dr. Darrel Ray at FreeOK on this very subject.  VIDEO HERE:  https://youtu.be/zzmQsjeqOyk2)  A follow-up radio conversation between Seth Andrews with Dr. Ray to explore some of these issues in more detail.Darrel is the founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Recovering From Religion. Dr. Ray has been a psychologist for over thirty years and is the author of four books: two on organizational teamwork as well as “The God Virus-How Religion Infects Our Lives and Culture” and “Sex and God-How Religion Distorts Sexuality”.  He has been a student of religion most of his life and holds a Masters Degree in religion as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology/Anthropology with a Doctorate in psychology. He is also the director of the Recovering From Religion program called The Secular Therapy Project; a groundbreaking effort to anonymously match interested clients with therapists who adhere to evidence based, secular therapeutic practices in their mental health treatment approach.In short...we're talking about sex.  Get ready for an interesting (and frank) discussion. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistThree special guests join us for tonight's broadcast.  Joshua Roseneau is an evolutionary biologist and serves as Programs and Policy Director for the National Center for Science Education (NCSE).  Dr. Barbara Forrest is a professor of philosophy at Southeastern Louisiana University and author of "Creationism's Trojan Horse: the Wedge of Intelligent Design."  And Dr. Donald Prothero is a paleontologist, geologist, educator and author of over 30 books, including "Reality Check: How Science Deniers Threaten Our Future" and "Evolution: What the Fossils Say and Why it Matters."Our panel discusses how Creationism's champions either distort or misuse "science" in an attempt to co-opt the public into believing Intelligent Design.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistIn his June 20, 2015 speech at the Oklahoma Freethought Convention, Seth Andrews explored how easily we, as human beings, become infatuated with ideas over facts, often leading to incorrect and even damaging assumptions that keep us in the dark.What happens when we'd rather believe than know?  This presentation explores the question in a compelling and entertaining way.SPEECH VIDEO:  https://youtu.be/tZiYgZ3HvagBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistBeat Magazine calls Shelley's voice an "enchanting, knowing croon...with brilliant pop melodies."  Raised in a traditional Jewish culture, Shelley Segal ultimately found herself an atheist with a new zest for life and a message of encouragement for others to do the same.  Her music can often be heard at freethought conventions, and her new album, "Strange Feeling" just released.Shelley Segal joins Seth Andrews for some conversation.  And...she's bringing her guitar.  Shelley Segal's website:  http://www.shelleysegal.comPatreon supporters can watch the video version of this broadcast.  Thanks for your support.  http://www.patreon.com/sethandrews Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.harrys.com (promo code: thinkingatheist)Today's show is, simply, a reading of the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac.  However, author Ed Suominen has fleshed out the story in alarming detail...and he has added a bizarre twist to the tale.How do most people feel about Abraham's deed (or "almost deed")?  His faith?  His character?  And after they hear this version of the Old Testament account, will they feel any differently?No calls.  No headlines.  Nothing but the text, the storyteller, and a fresh journey into one of the Bible's most popular books.Ed Suominen's blog:  http://blog.edsuom.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistThey're often known as PKs.  Preacher's kids.  Children of clergy who often grow up either embracing or condemning the often strict church cultures imposed upon them.  They've seen the "ministry" from behind closed doors, and their stories are enlightening.In this broadcast, we explore the life of a Preacher's Kid.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistThis is a fun one.  Seth Andrews explores some religions borne or (or influenced by) iconic films.  In this episode, he interviews a representative of The Temple of the Jedi Order (Star Wars), and a Dudeist Priest from The Church of the Latter Day Dude (The Big Lebowski).These are likely not the churches you'd see on a neighborhood street corner, but they're out there, and we're going to take this opportunity to find out more.   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistIn last week's episode, Seth Andrews mentioned that his laptop was stolen from a parked car.  This scenario sparked an intense debate about criminals, victims, responsibility, society, poverty and privilege.  The opportunity was too good to pass up, so we're continuing the discussion on this broadcast.Featuring Dr. Jerry Coyne, and Dr. Bo Bennett, plus your calls and emails.   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Sponsored by the Freethought Florida Convention.  Tickets and details at http://www.free-flo.orgChange.  It's the universal constant.  Seth Andrews spends a candid evening speaking about the unexpected, difficult, scary and often exhilarating idea of change, and some interesting changes in his own life.Also support TTA content at:  http://www.thethinkingatheist.com (CONTRIBUTE tab)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistSeth's original show topic fell through this week.  So, this podcast ISN'T the show he'd planned, but it will be an enjoyable potpourri of emails, calls, topics and ideas.  Sometimes, the unplanned parties are the best ones.  Come join us.  David Thorne "The Permission Slip":  http://27bslash6.com/easter.htmlBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistTwo special guests share their perspective on tonight's show:Todd Stiefel is a graduate of Duke University and spent 12 years as a key player at Stiefel Laboratories.  Now a full-time activist, Todd is one of the driving forces behind the Openly Secular site and campaign.  He also involves himself with secular humanist causes and charity work.John Davidson has spent much of the last half-century as a popular television personality, hosting television shows like "That's Incredible," "Hollywood Squares," "The Tonight Show" and more.  Recently, John lent his voice and face to the Openly Secular cause, and he has been kind enough to speak with Seth about his (non) religious views on the broadcast.Openly Secular website:  http://www.openlysecular.orgJohn Davidson's video:  https://youtu.be/Y_MlSaTTy14Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistThis one's just for fun.  Our listeners submit links to the weirdest, wildest and wackiest websites they've encountered.  They can be religious sites, non-religious sites, whatever.Your humble host will browse the content and read from these online gems for your listening pleasure.Submit your weird website to: [email protected] a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.harrys.com (promo code: thinkingatheist)Are you an atheist (or perhaps an adherent to a religion apart from that of your parents, siblings, children or distant relatives), and your loved ones are terrified that you're sliding the slipper slope toward damnation?This podcast is about the fears of the faithful, the damage done by religious concepts of Hell and torment, and the liberation that comes in living without fear.Neil Carter's blog, "You're (Not) Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone?"  http://www.patheos.com/blogs/godlessindixie/2015/04/27/youre-not-gonna-miss-me-when-im-goneBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistIn March of 2015, the Atheist Foundation of Australia hosted atheist activists Matt Dillahunty, Aron Ra and Seth Andrews (under the tongue-in-cheek tour title, "The Unholy Trinity Down Under").  This is the hour-long Q&A session from Sydney.The speakers' presentations from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne are posted on AFA's tour website: http://www.unholytrinitydownunder.comSpecial thanks to the AFA:  http://atheistfoundation.org.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

In March of 2015, the Atheist Foundation of Australia hosted atheist activists Matt Dillahunty, Aron Ra and Seth Andrews (under the tongue-in-cheek tour title, "The Unholy Trinity Down Under").  TThe speakers' presentations from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne are posted on AFA's tour website: http://www.unholytrinitydownunder.comSpecial thanks to the AFA:  http://atheistfoundation.org.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SPONSORED BY:  http://www.evolvefish.comIn March of 2015, the Atheist Foundation of Australia hosted atheist activists Matt Dillahunty, Aron Ra and Seth Andrews (under the tongue-in-cheek tour title, "The Unholy Trinity Down Under"). The speakers' presentations from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne are posted on AFA's tour website: http://www.unholytrinitydownunder.comSpecial thanks to the AFA:  http://atheistfoundation.org.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SPONSORED BY:  http://www.evolvefish.comIn March of 2015, the Atheist Foundation of Australia hosted atheist activists Matt Dillahunty, Aron Ra and Seth Andrews (under the tongue-in-cheek tour title, "The Unholy Trinity Down Under").  The speakers' presentations from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne are posted on AFA's tour website: http://www.unholytrinitydownunder.comSpecial thanks to the AFA:  http://atheistfoundation.org.au    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistTonight's show is a casual conversation about...whatever.  Is a certain issue on your mind?  Have a perspective, story, opinion or rant you want to share?  What "random reason" would you like to bring to the show?Tonight's your night to sound off.  Your calls and emails:  [email protected] a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistGeorge Perdikis was one of the founding members of the Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) group, the Newsboys.  In January 2015, he came out as an atheist.  In this broadcast, George speaks about his experience as a Christian artist/minister and his apostasy, and we also hear from others who once played to packed houses on the CCM stage.How much of CCM is ministry?  And how much is money?  We ask those questions (and more) tonight.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

What happens when ire meets insomina?  Join your humble host for a late-night (and impromptu) rant about religion, reason, "proofs" for the supernatural and the often-claimed charge that everybody should simply hold hands, celebrate their differences and "coexist."Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistCecil and Tom are hosts of the irreverent radio podcast, Cognitive Dissonance, which addresses current events from the atheist and skeptical perspective.  They join Seth Andrews for an entertaining (and random) hour of conversation.  Cognitive Dissonance podcasts can be heard at http://www.dissonancepod.comSeth's guest appearance on CD 2-9-15:  http://ec.libsyn.com/p/f/c/8/fc88cd6c56430443/cd206.mp3?d13a76d516d9dec20c3d276ce028ed5089ab1ce3dae902ea1d06ca8334d7ce58ec8b&c_id=8329027Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistMany claim that good and moral acts cannot exist outside of the concept of God.  Many also believe that humanity has become increasingly turbulent, violent, sinful and wicked, and they yearn for the simple, moral days of old.In this broadcast, we speak with three special guests about "goodness:"  1)  John Figdor, Humanist Chaplain at Stanford University and co-author of the book, "Atheist Mind / Humanist Heart" http://www.atheistmindhumanistheart.com2)  Dale McGowan, educator on secular parenting and Executive Director of the Foundation Beyond Belief   http://dalemcgowan.com3)  Michael Shermer, founding publisher of Skeptic Magazine and author of the new book, "The Moral Arc: How Science and Reason Lead Humanity Toward Truth, Justice, and Freedom.  http://www.amazon.com/The-Moral-Arc-Science-Humanity/dp/0805096914  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistUnitarian churches are essentially promoted as houses without walls, places were diverse opinions and cultures can converge in safety and without judgment.  But how can churches not have doctrines, specific holy books and/or dogmas?  Does the Unitarian church have merit as a place of respectful discussion on topics relating to belief, purpose and truth?  What are the colors, cultures, branches, sects and flavors of Universalist churches out there?  Michael Werner's book "Regaining Balance: the Evolution of the UUA"  http://huumanists.org/store/regaining-balance-evolution-uua Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistThere are few experiences like attending a religious elementary school, high school or university.  Some religious institutions of "learning" are mild, moderate and relatively benign.  Others operate like puritan prisons.  And the strict (and often bizarre) rules imposed by these schools can be interesting, entertaining, and often alarming.This show features the experiences and stories of those raised in religious school environments.  Have something you want to share?  Email [email protected] Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.harrys.com (promo code thethinkingatheist)Faith healers!  Crystals!  Power bracelets!  Kinoki pads!  Applied kinesiology!  Chakras, Chi and Positive Vibrations!There's a lot of bunk out there.  In this podcast, a panel of three "debunking" experts join Seth Andrews for a lively (and often hysterical) conversation about science, scams and our weird world of woo.ON THE PANEL:Dr. Harriet Hall (the SkepDoc) is an MD, a retired family physician and former Air Force flight surgeon.  She's a columnist for Skeptic and Skeptical Inquirer, and she's one of the founders of the Science-Based Medicine website. Dr. Hall recently co-authored the textbook, "Consumer Health: a Guide to Intelligent Decisions.  Her websites:  http://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org and http://www.skepdoc.infoJames Underdown has been the Executive Director of the Center for Inquiry Los Angeles since 1999.  He has written for Skeptical Inquirer and Free Inquiry magazine, and he is founder and chairman of the Independent Investigations Group in Hollywood, California.  The IIG offers a $100,000 prize to anyone who can prove paranormal activity under scientific testing conditions.  Websites: centerforinquiry.net and iighq.orgYvette Guinevere is an analytical chemist with a background in forensics and toxicology.  She runs the website http://www.scibabe.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistIt's one thing to "come out" as an atheist (or even someone with doubts) to associates, friends and family.  It's another thing to be "outed" by someone else, often against your knowledge or wishes.  This podcast talks about the challenges, both personal and professional, of those who've had their non-belief exposed on someone else's terms.Seth's "letter" of encouragement:  http://www.thethinkingatheist.com/blog/86/A-Letter-of-EncouragementBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.