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    • Turning a home into an Airbnb for travelers and incomeHosts Jen and Jordan transformed their home into an Airbnb, sharing their world with travelers and generating income. They prioritized guest comfort and connection, adding personal touches and easy check-ins/outs.

      The hosts of the Jordan Harbinger show, Jen and Jordan, turned their home into an Airbnb not only to earn extra income but also to share their world with travelers and make their guests feel welcomed. They applied the Airbnb experience they had as guests into their own home by adding personal touches and exterior door for easy check-ins and check-outs. This not only brings financial benefits but also allows them to connect with people from around the world. The episode also emphasizes the importance of fact-checking and debunking common misconceptions, as demonstrated by their resident fact-checker and comedian, David c Smalley. The hosts explore various topics, including ear candling, and provide accurate and reliable information to their audience.

    • Critical Thinking and Fact-Checking in Health and WellnessQuestion the validity of health information, fact-check, and consult professionals before accepting or applying it.

      Critical thinking and fact-checking are essential in today's world of misinformation. The speaker, who hosts a podcast, emphasizes the importance of inspiring people to think for themselves instead of blindly accepting information. He shares an example of a viral video on social media about using a candle to remove earwax, which he believes is unlikely to work and potentially dangerous. He encourages listeners to question the validity of such content and consult medical professionals for advice. The speaker's message is to be skeptical, fact-check, and think critically before accepting information, especially when it comes to health and wellness.

    • Ear Candling's Ancient Origins DebunkedEar candling, despite being marketed as an ancient practice, is likely a modern myth. It's ineffective and potentially dangerous, and proper ear cleaning can be achieved through safer methods.

      Ear candling, a popular alternative medicine practice, is not an ancient Hopi Indian healing tradition as claimed, but likely originated from misinformation or folk tales. The practice involves inserting a lit candle into the ear to draw out earwax and impurities, but it's not only ineffective but also potentially dangerous, as it can cause burns, fires, and ear damage. The idea that it's an ancient practice is a myth, and it's important to be skeptical of such claims and to rely on reliable sources for health information. Instead, proper ear cleaning can be achieved through safer methods, such as using over-the-counter ear drops or irrigation solutions.

    • Ear candling: A pseudoscience practice with potential dangersEar candling, though marketed as therapeutic, lacks proven benefits and poses risks like burns, hearing damage, and eardrum punctures. Avoid using it for ear health.

      Ear candling, a hollow tapered candle used for ear therapy, is a pseudoscience practice with no proven benefits, and it can cause serious injuries such as burns, hearing damage, and even punctured eardrums. Despite these risks, people continue to use ear candles, and some even get the procedure done in clinics. Manufacturers make money by selling these candles, disguising them as therapeutic items while avoiding any medical claims. The practice gained popularity due to the belief that it can treat various ear conditions like tinnitus, TMD, swimmer's ear, sinus infections, and Meniere's disease. However, the FDA and Pinnacle Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctors have debunked these claims, emphasizing the potential dangers of ear candling. It's essential to be aware of the risks and avoid using ear candles to ensure ear health and safety.

    • Ear candles: Harmless or Harmful?Despite common belief, ear candles don't work and can cause harm. Stick to proven methods like ear vacuums or consulting healthcare professionals.

      Ear candles, a seemingly harmless home remedy, have been found to do more harm than good. Despite popular belief, there is no scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness in removing earwax or providing any medical benefits. In fact, their use has been linked to injuries such as punctured eardrums and white deposits on the eardrum. The FDA and National Institute of Health have both issued warnings against using ear candles, advising people to explore safer alternatives like ear vacuums or consulting healthcare professionals instead. It's important to remember that our homes and health are valuable, and we should prioritize evidence-based practices over potentially dangerous trends.

    • Ear candling: A Dangerous and Ineffective Alternative TherapyEar candling, despite its popularity, is not backed by scientific evidence and can cause injuries or fires. Be cautious and skeptical before trying this unproven therapy.

      Ear candling, a popular alternative therapy, is not only potentially dangerous but also lacks scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. The practice, which involves placing a lit candle in the ear, has been known to cause injuries and even fires. The DIY element of this practice makes it even more risky, as there's no professional supervision to ensure safety. Moreover, those who promote ear candling often use accoutrements and lab coats to give it a more scientific appearance, despite the lack of solid evidence for its benefits. A well-known practitioner, Paulina Bowler, publicly offers ear candling services and admits in a viral video that the practice is a mystery and doesn't make scientific sense. Despite this, she continues to offer the service, highlighting the importance of being cautious and skeptical when considering alternative therapies.

    • The 'earwax worm' in candles is a hoaxPeople should fact-check information and be skeptical of claims that seem too unusual, as the 'earwax worm' in candles is a hoax designed to generate profits through views and sales.

      The infamous "earwax worm" found in some candles is a hoax. The worm-like object is intentionally placed in the candle before lighting, while the wax-like substance that comes out after burning is just beeswax from the candle itself. People are often convinced by the convincing appearance of the burnt beeswax, leading them to believe that something was actually pulled out of their ear. However, this phenomenon is motivated by financial gains, as creators of such content stand to earn money and traffic through views, licensing deals, and merchandise sales. Despite the potential harm caused to those who believe in and try such practices, some people may genuinely believe in what they're doing and not be aware of the truth. It's important to fact-check information before trusting it and to be skeptical of claims that seem too good (or gross) to be true.

    • Social Media and the Spread of Misinformation about Ear CandlingSocial media can spread misinformation about ineffective or harmful practices like ear candling, leading to unnecessary purchases and potential harm. It's essential to fact-check information and hold those who engage in such practices accountable.

      Misinformation and scams can spread quickly through social media, leading people to believe in practices that are not only ineffective but potentially harmful. The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of ear candling, a practice where a hollow candle is inserted into the ear to draw out earwax. However, it was revealed that many of the viral videos promoting this practice were actually pranks or scams. Professionals in the medical field, as well as regular people, have fallen victim to this misinformation, leading to unnecessary purchases and potential harm. Some individuals may genuinely believe in the practice, while others intentionally deceive people for financial gain. The ease of spreading misinformation online makes it essential for individuals to fact-check information before believing or sharing it. Moreover, the discussion highlighted the importance of holding those who engage in such practices accountable, even if it means confronting them directly. The decision to remain respectful to their business, as shown in the example of Mixed Makeup, can allow scams to continue. It is a delicate balance between respect and accountability, but ultimately, it is crucial to ensure that misinformation does not continue to harm individuals.

    • FDA's stance on ear candlesDespite FDA warnings and reported issues, ear candles remain technically legal but discouraged. Individuals use at their own risk, potential harm may lead to legal consequences.

      The use of ear candles, despite warnings and reported medical issues, remains technically legal but highly discouraged by the FDA. In 2010, the FDA issued warning letters to manufacturers and retailers, citing lack of approval, clearance, registration, and adverse event reporting system for ear candles. However, a lawsuit by an individual named Doc Harmony challenging the FDA's classification of ear candles as medical devices reached the Supreme Court, but Doc Harmony lost. The ruling stated that the FDA had only issued warnings and threats, not an outright ban. However, searching for ear candling on the FDA website redirects to frauds and medical warnings, and many links are broken. The FDA's stance is that individuals can use ear candles at their own risk, but if harm occurs, they may face legal consequences. It's important to note that while individuals have the right to choose alternative methods of therapy, causing harm to others or oneself can result in criminal charges.

    • Understanding the Dangers of Engaging with a PsychopathPrioritize self-worth, recognize manipulative behaviors, and protect oneself from psychopaths to avoid potential harm. Listen to episode 465 with Thomas Erickson on the Jordan Harbinger Show for more information.

      Engaging with a psychopath can be dangerous due to their manipulative behaviors, such as love bombing. Psychopathy is a personality disorder that cannot be changed, and understanding its potential dangers is crucial. It's essential to value yourself and your worth in relationships and protect yourself from psychopaths. For more information on identifying and dealing with psychopaths, listen to episode 465 with Thomas Erickson on the Jordan Harbinger Show. Remember, you deserve good relationships and should prioritize your well-being. Stay informed and share this knowledge with others to help them avoid potential harm.

    Recent Episodes from The Jordan Harbinger Show

    993: Johann Hari | The Skinny on 'Magic Pill' Weight-Loss Drugs

    993: Johann Hari | The Skinny on 'Magic Pill' Weight-Loss Drugs

    Are new weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy "magic" pills that can put an end to the obesity epidemic? Johann Hari is here to give us the skinny!

    What We Discuss with Johann Hari:

    • Processed and ultra-processed foods are a major driver of the obesity epidemic, as they undermine the body's natural ability to feel full and satisfied after eating. Moving from fresh, whole foods to mostly processed foods is strongly linked to the dramatic rise in obesity rates.
    • Obesity is a complex issue with biological, psychological, and social causes. Factors like genetics, emotional eating, trauma, and the food environment all play a role. Stigmatizing or shaming people for their weight is cruel and counterproductive.
    • New weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy work by artificially boosting satiety hormones like GLP-1, helping people feel full faster and eat less. They are showing impressive weight loss results, but also come with potential risks and side effects that are not yet fully understood, especially in the long-term.
    • While these new drugs may help many people, they are not a magic solution. They don't address the underlying drivers of the obesity crisis in the food system and environment. To make a real difference, we need broader changes to make healthy eating the easy, default option.
    • The good news is, each of us can take positive steps today to improve our health, no matter our current weight. Focus on adding more whole, minimally processed foods to your diet, and find physical activities you truly enjoy. Prioritize getting good sleep, managing stress, and building a strong social support network. Small, sustainable lifestyle changes can make a big difference over time. Be patient and kind with yourself in the process. You have the power to transform your health, one choice at a time.
    • And much more...

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/993

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    992: Royals | Skeptical Sunday

    992: Royals | Skeptical Sunday

    What's the point of the publicly funded British Royal family in the modern world? Andrew Gold puts the monarchy under a microscope on this Skeptical Sunday!

    On This Week's Skeptical Sunday:

    • The British monarchy is a centuries-old institution that has had a significant impact on the UK's culture, politics, and history. While the monarch's role is largely ceremonial, the royal family still holds influence and plays a significant part in British society.
    • The British Royal Family receives public funding through the Sovereign Grant, which is calculated as a percentage of the profits made by the Crown Estate. The Sovereign Grant covers official expenses, while the monarch also has personal income from private estates.
    • The monarchy faces challenges in maintaining its relevance in an increasingly democratic and progressive world. The royal family must balance tradition with adapting to changing societal values and expectations.
    • The popularity of individual members of the royal family, such as Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Prince William, and Prince Harry, can significantly impact public perception of the monarchy as a whole.
    • Despite the controversies and challenges surrounding the British monarchy, it remains an integral part of the nation's identity and continues to captivate people worldwide. By focusing on their roles as symbols of unity, continuity, and tradition, while also embracing positive change and engaging in meaningful charitable work, the royal family can maintain its relevance and contribute to the well-being of the British people and the global community.
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with Andrew Gold on Twitter and Instagram, and check out On the Edge with Andrew Gold here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/992

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us...

    991: Should You Coexist with a Manchild Narcissist? | Feedback Friday

    991: Should You Coexist with a Manchild Narcissist? | Feedback Friday

    Should you endure a toxic marriage for the sake of your son's relationship with his father, or run for the hills while you can? Welcome to Feedback Friday!

    And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in!

    On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:

    • You're contemplating leaving your narcissistic addict husband due to his poor treatment of you and your child, but you feel trapped financially and concerned about your son losing his father. Should you try to reconcile and accept him the way he is, or run for the hills while you can?
    • Betrayed by a lifelong friend who used you in an eBay scam and left you financially accountable to his victims, you found closure years later at a party by forgiving him and letting go of your own negative emotions about the situation. But you can't help but wonder if you should've just punched him in the face. Did you do the right thing?
    • After years of caring for your late mother's boyfriend like family, you feel disrespected when you're labeled as a vendor at a granddaughter's wedding, highlighting the family's lack of appreciation for your efforts. Are you still expected to bring a gift, or should you send them an invoice the day after the wedding for taking care of their grandfather?
    • Your close relationship with your daughter's ex-boyfriend, now reformed from the issues that facilitated their breakup, causes tension with your married daughter, forcing you to choose between transparency or secrecy to preserve your bond. Should you continue to "sneak around" with your daughter's ex, or just be honest and let the chips fall where they may?
    • You're a Canadian mom worried about your 18-year-old daughter's real-life meetup with the 23-year-old American boyfriend she met online. How can you ensure her safety (on the off-chance he might be a human trafficker or drug fiend) without damaging your relationship by being seen as overbearing?
    • Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com!
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.
    • Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi.

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/991

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors:...

    990: Jonathan Haidt | How Gen Z Became the Anxious Generation

    990: Jonathan Haidt | How Gen Z Became the Anxious Generation

    Jonathan Haidt is here to talk about his latest book, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness.

    What We Discuss with Jonathan Haidt:

    • Social media and smartphones have drastically altered childhood since the early 2010s, leading to increased rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide among teens, especially girls.
    • Virtual interactions on social media are disembodied, shallow, and can spread mental health issues among susceptible teens. Prestige biased learning causes teens to emulate influencers, even those promoting unhealthy behaviors. Smartphones and social media also enable sexual predators to easily target children online.
    • Overprotection in the real world and underprotection online are both mistakes that need to be reversed. Parents have allowed kids too much unsupervised screen time while restricting their independence and free play in the physical world out of exaggerated fears.
    • Schools and parents need to set clear boundaries around technology use. No smartphones before high school, no social media until age 16, and phone-free schools from bell to bell are key norms to establish. The longer parents delay introducing these technologies, the better.
    • Although the situation is serious, positive change is possible when parents, educators, and lawmakers work together. Parents can start by giving kids more independence and free play time offline, schools can go phone-free, and governments can pass laws to make online spaces safer for kids. With collective action, we can restore a healthier childhood for the next generation. Small steps like "Free Play Fridays" for neighborhood kids can make a difference right away. By coming together to solve this, we can ensure today's youth have the space to develop into competent, well-adjusted adults.
    • And much more...

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/990

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    989: Bad Behavior Uncorrected Leaves Dad Unprotected | Feedback Friday

    989: Bad Behavior Uncorrected Leaves Dad Unprotected | Feedback Friday

    Your disabled father's safety is jeopardized by a violent, mentally ill relative, and legal remedies have proven insufficient. Welcome to Feedback Friday!

    And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in!

    On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:

    • Your paralyzed, terminally sick father's safety is at risk due to a violent, mentally ill family member, and legal interventions seem ineffective. What alternative solutions exist?
    • Raised in an abusive, isolating homeschool cult, you struggle with trauma, financial hardship, and inaccessibility to college due to a lack of legitimate transcripts. Are you out of luck, or might there be a workaround? [Thanks to licensed mental health counselor and cult expert Steven Hassan for helping us with this one!]
    • After enduring a volatile, unprofessional manager who alienated staff and customers, how can you diplomatically end your forced friendship now that he's been fired?
    • Your mother's disapproval of your loving husband has led to an 'all or none' ultimatum resulting in estrangement and heartbreak for your son, who wonders why you "don't visit grandma anymore." What can you do?
    • A dyslexic listener shares their journey to success, urging others with dyslexia to embrace their strengths, seek accommodations, and overcome shame by being open and advocating for their needs.
    • Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com!
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.
    • Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi.

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/989

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    <a...

    988: Robert Mazur | How Money Laundering Works Part Two

    988: Robert Mazur | How Money Laundering Works Part Two

    Ex-federal agent Robert Mazur shares his experiences working undercover to infiltrate drug cartels, offering insights into the challenges involved. Pt 2/2. [Pt 1 can be found here!]

    What We Discuss with Robert Mazur:

    • How Robert, working undercover for US Customs and the DEA, posed as a money launderer to infiltrate Pablo Escobar's Medellin cartel and other criminal organizations.
    • Money laundering enables cartels to produce their most lethal product: corruption. Corrupt officials and governments facilitate drug trafficking operations.
    • Money laundering methods are highly sophisticated, involving legitimate businesses, secret codes, and multi-national operations to evade detection.
    • Banks and the global financial system need to change to combat money laundering effectively, with severe penalties for those involved in facilitating the flow of illicit funds.
    • Despite the risks and close calls, Robert continued his undercover work to gather intelligence and evidence against drug cartels until it became clear that the price his family was paying was not worth continuing.
    • And much more...

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/988

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    987: Robert Mazur | How Money Laundering Works Part One

    987: Robert Mazur | How Money Laundering Works Part One

    Ex-federal agent Robert Mazur shares his experiences working undercover to infiltrate drug cartels, offering insights into the challenges involved. Pt 1/2.

    What We Discuss with Robert Mazur:

    • How Robert, working undercover for US Customs and the DEA, posed as a money launderer to infiltrate Pablo Escobar's Medellin cartel and other criminal organizations.
    • The extensive planning that goes into an undercover operation, including developing a detailed backstory, establishing fake businesses, and coordinating with informants and other agents.
    • How Robert built rapport with targets by researching their interests, using active listening, and offering them gifts to gain their trust.
    • Undercover agents must be laser-focused on their targets and avoid thinking about their personal lives, as any slip-up could compromise the operation and endanger their safety.
    • During trials, these agents must be prepared for defense attorneys' tactics, such as role reversal, and maintain their composure to avoid compromising the case or their credibility in front of the jury.
    • And much more...

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/987

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    986: Porn | Skeptical Sunday

    986: Porn | Skeptical Sunday

    Has technology weaponized pornography into a public health crisis? Michael Regilio takes us through modern porn's ins and outs on this Skeptical Sunday!

    On This Week's Skeptical Sunday:

    • High-speed internet porn is a recent phenomenon that provides an intense, novel experience unlike traditional pornography, hacking into our brain's evolutionary desires for new mates and triggering dopamine responses similar to drug addiction.
    • Pornography use, especially among adolescents and young adults who grew up with easy access to internet porn, has been linked to erosion of gray matter in the brain's prefrontal cortex, which controls impulse control and decision-making.
    • Porn use has been associated with sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction in young men, as well as difficulties forming emotional bonds and intimacy in relationships.
    • While some psychologists dispute the existence of "porn addiction," neuroscientific evidence shows porn use can lead to compulsive behaviors and brain changes resembling substance addictions.
    • While some political efforts have been made to declare porn a public health crisis, there is little policy action based on scientific evidence to provide resources for treatment and awareness.
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with Michael Regilio at TwitterInstagram, and YouTube, and make sure to check out the Michael Regilio Plagues Well With Others podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/986

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    985: Lives Are at Stake in Bail Reform's Wake | Feedback Friday

    985: Lives Are at Stake in Bail Reform's Wake | Feedback Friday

    When bail reforms free violent offenders and risk others' safety, how can we uphold justice while safeguarding victims? Welcome to Feedback Friday!

    And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in!

    On This Week's Feedback Friday:

    • When bail reforms free violent offenders and risk others' safety, how can we uphold justice while safeguarding victims?
    • You've about had it with your autistic boss' cringeworthy conspiracy theories. How can you disagree respectfully and maintain professionalism?
    • As a cancer patient struggling with massive student loans and disability assistance denial, what legal help and guidance is available for navigating private loan regulations while fighting for survival?
    • You've invented a non-functional plastic object that brings laughter to all who behold its absurdity. You want to protect the IP so you can profit from this stroke of comedic novelty, but you can't ignore the potential environmental impact of manufacturing such an item en masse. What should you do?
    • Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com!
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.
    • Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi.

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/985

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    984: Susan Casey | Unraveling Mysteries in the Ocean's Darkest Depths

    984: Susan Casey | Unraveling Mysteries in the Ocean's Darkest Depths

    What challenges can the ocean help us meet, and what must we do to safeguard its treasures? The Underworld author Susan Casey dives deep for answers here!

    What We Discuss with Susan Casey:

    • The ocean plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and serves as the largest carbon sink on the planet, making its preservation essential for mitigating climate change.
    • The ocean is home to a fascinating array of creatures that have adapted to extreme conditions, such as iron-breathing microbes, glass sponges, and jellyfish that can reverse their life cycle.
    • Pollution, including plastics, chemical weapons, and nuclear waste, has severely impacted the ocean ecosystem, with some deep-sea creatures found to have plastic particles embedded in their organs.
    • There are an estimated three million shipwrecks on the ocean floor, preserving valuable historical artifacts and information — such as the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient Greek analog computer.
    • Exploring the ocean can lead to groundbreaking discoveries in medicine, Earth's history, and climate, providing valuable insights for addressing humanity's challenges — provided we safeguard this treasury of knowledge for current and future generations.
    • And much more...

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/984

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    Related Episodes

    766: Banned Foods | Skeptical Sunday

    766: Banned Foods | Skeptical Sunday

    Why are so many of the snacks and drinks offered as safe for consumption in the United States wholly banned in other parts of the world? How bad could our favorite foodstuffs actually be?

    Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.

    Editor's note: A previous version of this show's notes erroneously declared that aspartame was banned in the EU. We are in the process of correcting this and apologize for the error. 

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/766

    On This Week’s Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:

    • Coffee Mate's liquid version is banned in Europe due to the presence of trans fats (found in hydrogenated vegetable oils) that can lead to heart disease. While the US requires warning labels for these foods, they are still available to consumers.
    • Mexican and most European cola brands use cane sugar, while American Coke uses high fructose corn syrup, which is regulated in the EU. High fructose corn syrup has been linked to health issues such as insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular illnesses.
    • Aspartame is a low-calorie sweetener found in many US foods and drinks, including diet sodas and gum. It contains phenylalanine, which can cause problems for people with a rare genetic condition called PKU.
    • While evidence is still being gathered, there have been concerns about the potential health effects of certain artificial food dyes, particularly their potential to cause hyperactivity in children. In the European Union, these dyes are banned from use in food products, while they are widely used in the United States.
    • The EU has banned the use of growth hormones in cows due to concerns about potential health risks to humans and animals, as well as potential negative impacts on the environment. In the United States, however, they're commonly used in the dairy and meat industries to promote faster growth and increase milk production in cows.
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with David at his website, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and make sure to check out The David C. Smalley Podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts! If you like to get out of your house and catch...

    797: Ouija Boards | Skeptical Sunday

    797: Ouija Boards | Skeptical Sunday

    Every year around Halloween, millions of teenagers, drunk adults, and terrified believers gather around Ouija boards to contact "The Other Side." We've all been a part of it, and we know we weren't moving that little thing, but it was definitely moving. So what’s really going on here?

    Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.

    On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:

    • How a pair of sisters playing a prank on their parents in upstate New York escalated into a spiritualism craze that took the 19th century United States — and then the world — by storm.
    • The Medieval Chinese origins and evolution of what we know today as the Ouija board.
    • How the spiritualism craze boosted the Ouija board's adoption into millions of households (even outselling Monopoly in 1967).
    • The indelible marks the Ouija board has made on our lives — from pop culture to the law.
    • The science behind what makes the Ouija board "work."
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with David at his website, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and make sure to check out The David C. Smalley Podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts! If you like to get out of your house and catch live comedy, keep an eye on David's tour dates here and text David directly at (424) 306-0798 for tickets when he comes to your town!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/797

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    676: The Olympics | Skeptical Sunday

    676: The Olympics | Skeptical Sunday

    The Olympic games hold a place of reverence in the hearts of people around the world. But for the athletes who wreck their bodies and their bank accounts training for years to compete in the Olympics for glory and national pride -- especially the ones who hail from Team USA -- are the games kind of a sham?

    Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/676

    On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:

    • In spite of the PR boost nations get whenever their teams win medals and the influx of cash brought in by the games, the United States is one of the few countries that doesn't spend a dime supporting its Olympic athletes.
    • A so-called non-profit, the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee brought in $317 million in revenue in 2018, including $122 million in broadcast revenue, which resulted in $48 million in profit. The CEO made $800,000 in compensation.
    • 60% of the athletes who train full-time for years to have a chance at competing in the Olympics do not consider themselves financially stable, often relying on low-paying gig economy jobs to fund their journey.
    • For Team USA athletes who win medals, the USOPC pays out $37,500 for gold, $22,500 for silver, and $15,000 for bronze. In contrast, Singapore rewards its athletes with $1 million for gold, $500,000 for silver, and $250,000 for bronze.
    • In 2012, half of the track and field athletes made less than $15,000 per year, while the track and field CEO earned $1.2 million in 2018. In 2012, US News and World Report found it cost around $100,000 per year to be an athlete in the Olympics.
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, on Instagram, and on YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with David at his website, on Twitter, on Instagram, on TikTok, and on YouTube, and make sure to check out The David C. Smalley Podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts! If you like to get out of your house and catch live comedy, keep an eye on David's tour dates here...

    801: Circumcision | Skeptical Sunday

    801: Circumcision | Skeptical Sunday

    While mandated by some religious and cultural traditions for thousands of years, and not without certain benefits to health, is circumcising newborns before they're old enough to consent wrong?

    Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.

    On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:

    • Male circumcision is the oldest known human surgical procedure, with historical records and archeological evidence dating the practice back to ancient Egyptians in the 23rd century BCE.
    • While circumcision is mandated by numerous cultural and religious traditions and enacted for health reasons in certain parts of the world, is the practice of altering someone's body before they're old enough to give consent wrong?
    • Some medical professionals believe the preventive health benefits of elective circumcision of male newborns outweigh the risks of the procedure.
    • What special interests are involved in recommending or not recommending circumcision as a standard procedure?
    • What's the deal with so-called female circumcision — or, as it's more accurately known, female genital mutilation (FGM)?
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with David at his website, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and make sure to check out The David C. Smalley Podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts! If you like to get out of your house and catch live comedy, keep an eye on David's tour dates here and text David directly at (424) 306-0798 for tickets when he comes to your town!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/801

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    817: Acupuncture | Skeptical Sunday

    817: Acupuncture | Skeptical Sunday

    10 to 15 million people per year turn to acupuncture — the insertion of thin needles through the skin at strategic points on the body — for relieving what ails them. But is there any evidence that it actually works?

    Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.

    On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:

    • The origins of acupuncture are unclear, and the claim that it started in China approximately 3,000 years ago is debated.
    • Peer-reviewed journal Global Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health claims that acupuncture is one of the most utilized forms of complementary integrative medicine interventions in the US and can help strengthen the immune system and reduce side effects of chemotherapy.
    • Studies on acupuncture's effectiveness in reducing cancer pain have mixed results due to small sample sizes and design problems. One study showed acupuncture helps deactivate brain areas associated with processing pain, but it only involved 17 people.
    • Many doctors are privately skeptical about acupuncture and say there's no real science to support the practice, but they often do not speak out against it publicly as they do not see it as particularly harmful.
    • Acupuncture can actually be a risky treatment, and 86 people have died from improperly placed needles — with the most common cause of death being a condition called pneumothorax.
    • And much more...

    Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!

    Connect with David at his website, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and make sure to check out The David C. Smalley Podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts! If you like to get out of your house and catch live comedy, keep an eye on David's tour dates here and text David directly at (424) 306-0798 for tickets when he comes to your town!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/817

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine...