Truth Wanted

Latest Episodes:

Truth Wanted 04.32 08-20-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Secular Rarity Aug 21, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of Truth Wanted! Objectively Dan is hosting with Secular Rarity.
First up in the calls is Ken, who believes he had an encounter with a flirty, Victorian era ghost over forty years ago. When considering the validity of experiences like this one, we have to wonder how much our perception of them changes over time. More often than not our memory will fail us. Thanks for sharing your story, and let’s hope you’re not haunted again any time soon.
Another caller out of Virginia, Joe, wants to discuss a familiar argument: Kalam Cosmological. More specifically, that everything which begins to exist has a cause. While we see this in the natural world, we’re not sure what happens outside of what we call time. Keep thinking on it, Joe.
Daniel In Canada wonders how alien findings might affect our society. Would it unite us or bring mass chaos? How much is the government hiding about alien encounters? If there is evidence for extraterrestrial life, would we want to know? Be careful what you wish for!
Kevin in Tennessee has some deep thoughts about existence and consciousness. Give us a moment while we process this abstract interpretation of reality involving various levels of fields representing multiple dimensions...or something like that! Are we simultaneously existing in both potential and kinetic states? We’ve definitely put our brains to work on this call, but we might not be any closer to concluding the truth. We’ll stay in the real world for now, Kevin.
That wraps up tonight’s show. Thank you so much to our co-host, Secular Rarity for bringing your perspective to these important discussions. Remember to always keep wanting the truth! See you next week.
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Truth Wanted 04.31 08-13-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Cynthia McDonald Aug 14, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of Truth Wanted! Objectively Dan is hosting alongside Cynthia McDonald, an infectious disease case manager and one of our fellow Non Prophets. Welcome to the show, Cynthia. We’re happy to hear your perspective.
First up in the calls, a hypothetical scenario: Imagine you were born on a desert Island with nobody else around to teach you about language. How would that define your reality? Matthew In California calls to discuss this very question. Thanks for the discussion, Matthew!
Alex in New York is trying to make sense of solipsism and wonders if we really are just brains in a jar. We appreciate the discussion, but is it actually possible to prove one way or another? We’re not sure, but it’s a fun thought to entertain. Keep thinking on it, Alex.
William in Alaska called to talk about the gross misrepresentation of truth in modern day politics. The quick spread of misinformation is scary with everyday Americans choosing to trust non-experts for their political commentary. Unfortunately the internet makes it so easy to spread a false narrative these days. We just have to keep having one-on-one conversations to combat this very serious societal issue.
Last is Joe in Virginia who’s a theist and wants to know why atheist activism is so important to us. Although many people try to misrepresent our intentions, we believe promoting critical thinking, preventing the spread of misinformation and shining light on problematic views can create positive change within our society.
Whew! We had some great discussion tonight. Thank you so much to our co-host and remember to stay funky, get your vaccine, wear your mask, be nice to others and always keep wanting the truth! See you next week.
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Truth Wanted 04.30 08-06-2021 with Puck and Martin Robert Aug 07, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of the Truth Wanted! P*ck is hosting alongside Martin Robert, an ACA Volunteer.
Kelley in Michigan attempted to test the devil to prove God’s existence. Did it work? The devil’s in the details and the details aren’t there.
Next is James in Texas to discuss the misinformation surrounding vaccines. The unfortunate reality is that the facts are available but refusal to accept them is a symptom of a much larger problem.
Spicoli in Florida continues the conversation on vaccines, feeling frustrated by his colleagues who are hesitant to get the jab. We just have to keep having these conversations and fighting the good fight.
Deborah in Oregon is a former theist who realizes she never needed religion to find community. While we agree that churches can provide a good place to find friends, you shouldn’t have to hold religious values to develop genuine relationships.
John in Virginia feels the frustration of having anti-vax parents. These situations can be sticky and the best you can do is vaccinate yourself and keep having productive conversations about the facts surrounding vaccines.
Tapia in Minnesota has a loaded question: does Christianity have roots in racism? We have reason to believe that it does. This is one of the many problems surrounding America’s favorite religion.
And last we’ve got Jordan in California who’s curious about the difference between religious and non-religious beliefs. If it relates to a deity, it’s religious!
That wraps up tonight’s show. Thank you so much to our co-host and remember to always keep wanting the truth!
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Truth Wanted 04.29 07-30-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Nate Smith Jul 31, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of the Truth Wanted! Objectively Dan is joined by Nate Smith from our sister show, Secular Sexuality. We’re so happy to have you here this week, Nate!
Mark from Oregon is first up to discuss growing up gay and Pentecostal in the 70s. As an atheist, he realizes how sheltered his Christian faith kept him. He now lives his life free from religion and we’re happy to hear that. Thanks for sharing your story, Mark!
Brandon in Texas recently lost his Christian faith and now feels the frustrations of unpacking childhood indoctrination. Is it any different than brainwashing? We tend to think it’s just a distinction without a difference and promote freedom of thought for all.
Why do Christians often deny scientific facts? Vincent in England can’t wrap his head around the cognitive dissonance within religious communities- and we get it! Unfortunately, many scientific topics have become so politicized and threaten the core of most religious beliefs. Keep supporting scientific research.
Tymm in Washington is a long-time caller who also grew up in the Pentecostal church and had an interesting realization about his experiences being “slain in the spirit”. Is speaking in tongues just a theater exercise? It may be, and those speaking gibberish in church might not even realize it.
Another Mark In Oregon? What are the chances? Even wilder, Mark claims to have had telepathic experiences with UFOs! Unfortunately he’s never managed to capture any of these alien encounters on camera. Keep searching for answers and let us know when you gather some data.
That wraps up tonight’s show. Thank you so much to our co-host, Nate. Remember to always keep wanting the truth. See you next week!
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Truth Wanted 04.28 07-23-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Derek Lambert Jul 24, 2021

Show notes

Bzzzt. Krrrrzztztz. *static*
False start! Five yard penalty! On today’s exciting episode of Truth Wanted, Objectively Dan is joined by Derek Lambert, creator and host of the MythVision Podcast! Derek is a former Calvanist who used to upload sermons on YouTube. He shares his story with Dan to open up the show. Welcome, Derek! We can’t wait to see how you handle these truth claims.
First up in the calls is Mauricio, who is also the first person to call Truth Wanted from Venezuela! Thanks for calling! Mauricio is wondering whether acupuncture is actually affecting a person’s medical health, or if it maybe just makes them feel better. Dan shares his views on acupuncture and they are quite similar to his views on chiropractors as well. Derek
Next up is Alex in NY, who is calling to pitch his ghost hunting show idea! Instead of the normal format (where people already believe in ghosts and set out to prove their own conclusions), Alex thinks they should set out to prove whatever is true without assuming anything. We think that’s quite a concept, but unfortunately, discovering the cause of a supernatural claim is actually mundane is rather… mundane. Thanks for the idea, Alex! We’ll see what we can do.
Matt in Maryland calls in next to talk about UAPs/UFOs! He is curious if Dan and Derek think that UAPs demonstrate advanced technology! This subject certainly needs more research, let us know what you think in the comments!
Our next caller, Erik, wants to talk about how to prevent people from using fake medicine. Acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, chakra manipulation, and tarot readings for medical advice… all of it is harmful! We think this is a very important topic, thank you for calling, Erik.
Next up, Tony calls in from Mexico to discuss COVID conspiracy theories. This is a very tough topic, especially when it hits close to home. Hang in there, folks!
Lastly, Oliver calls in from England to, well, make Dan’s day! This call is a must-listen.
Well that wraps up tonight’s show. Thank you so much to our guest, Derek Lambert from the MythVision podcast. Remember to always keep wanting the truth. See you next week!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

Truth Wanted 04.27 07-16-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Kelley Laughlin Jul 17, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of the Truth Wanted! Objectively Dan is joined by Kelley Laughlin, one of our discord volunteers. Welcome to the show, Kelley! We’re eager to talk about crystal woo with you.
First up in the calls is Kevin in Arizona, who wonders why psychedelic experiences tend to make people adopt theism. Although hallucinogenic encounters may feel powerful in the moment, it doesn’t make what happens in them rooted in reality. But this is a fascinating topic, indeed.
Another Arizona caller, Sarah, spent a long time dabbling in crystal woo and blames her Christian upbringing for making her susceptible to blind belief. We’re so happy you’ve decided to start examining your beliefs with more skepticism!
Does the devil’s lettuce make us stupid? Stephen in Michigan thinks the stoner stereotype isn’t an accurate representation of people who smoke and marijuana should just be legalized. We might have to agree with you there, Stephen!
Robert in South Carolina called to talk about the two things you’re never supposed to discuss in public: religion and politics. These two things are inherently intertwined, but we do hope to find more political representation in the future.
Karlyn is moving to her dream town, but there’s one problem- it’s highly religious. How do we navigate these difficult encounters with believers? It is important to know when to keep your thoughts to yourself, but you also have the right to assert yourself and answer honestly when questioned about what you believe.
Well that wraps up tonight’s show. Thank you so much to our co-host Kelley. Remember to always keep wanting the truth. And don’t use amethyst for migraines. See you next week!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

Truth Wanted 04.26 07-09-2021 with Exxtian Erin and Dave Warnock Jul 10, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of the Truth Wanted, ExXtian Erin is back as host and joined by a very special guest, Dave Warnock, who is currently working on a memoir. We’re happy to have you on the show and excited to read your story!
Brian from Michigan is a lifelong atheist that can’t fathom laughing at anyone else’s belief. While we do believe that bad beliefs should be scrutinized, we would never laugh at the people who hold those beliefs.
James in Washington is trying to heal a relationship with his religious grandma after a Holiday dinner went awry. Now he’s left wondering how to navigate the resentment. Maintain boundaries and set aside conversations that ignite bitter feelings in the future.
Kennita in California thinks atheists shouldn’t use god as an expression because it might give off the impression that they are believers. Flippant expression is a normal part of human language. Let’s pick our battles and leave this one alone.
Marcus in Texas met a Christian this past week who believes in miracles and wants to plant seeds of doubt. Although you should never expect to change anyone else’s beliefs, you can utilize tools like street evangelism to encourage them to examine their ideas with skepticism.
Autumn in California called to talk about a social media storm over the definition of atheism. According to some, atheism is the assertion that no god exists. Let’s keep working to de-stigmatize the term atheist so we can have more honest conversations.
Sterling In SC wonders what it would convince us that aliens exist. We’ve got one word for you: Evidence. Show us the proof and we’ll start to believe.
Jamie called all the way from Australia to play around with some street evangelism. How would Christians respond if god commanded them to murder? We’re not sure, but we hope it never happens.
Great show tonight! Remember to always keep wanting the truth.
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Truth Wanted 04.25 07-02-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Exxtian Erin Jul 03, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of the Truth Wanted! Objectivity Dan is joined by ExXtian Erin, glad to have you back!
First up! Joshua from LA is struggling with the need to “appease” a higher power and pray. That’s a pretty common struggle atheists have, remnants of religious rituals. It takes a bit to relearn some habits, try reminding yourself it’s nothing when they pop up.
Stair in Canada asks advice on addressing superstitions or irrational beliefs. It’s common for people to find patterns like this, just remember correlation doesn't equal causation. Glad you are thinking rationally about it!
Ulf in Norway found that chiropracty isn’t recognized as medical science in Norway. Yeah, it’s much bigger in the US and some can make some pretty dangerous claims. Some people find a little help but maybe stick to physical/massage therapists.
Jared in IN argues that we are moving to transhumanism. For sure, we have been modifying ourselves since a pirate donned a pegleg. Medical science and technology has been advancing in leaps and bounds. It’s exciting to look to the future!
Allison in Canada experienced white washing of her indigenous roots growing up. It’s such a heartbreaking story that is coming to light. White washing history is a travesty. Look into finding a community and learn more about your indigenous heritage. It seems lots have found healing in that. Thanks for sharing your story with us.
Congratulations Erin, welcome to Truth Wanted!! Remember to always keep wanting the truth.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

Truth Wanted 04.24 06-25-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Puck Jun 26, 2021

Show notes

In today’s episode of the Truth Wanted, Objectivity Dan is joined by a special guest who might be recognized by some. It is P*ck who is coming up on a year with the ACA now! Congress released the UFO report and there are NO new revelations. As we may have guessed, the conspiracy theorists are going to have fun with this! Stay tuned for the new species of human that of course people think are nephilim that proves the Bible to be true.
First up we have Matt in AR who has seen a UFO while stationed in Iraq. This looked like the Phoenix Lights soaring across the sky. The lights did not descend like a meteor; they moved across the sky. This is the first time we ever had a caller that described seeing a UFO while on military duty. We tend to have a bad sense of distance and scope, especially at night. It was probably something experimental. A healthy sense of skepticism is appreciated!
Okun in NV, a former radar tech in the Navy, reveals that the screen footage from the jet that was tracking the oblong thing is probably mostly BS. The little grain of truth can grow to a conspiracy theory quickly. We just don’t have enough information about this yet to conclude anything.
Kennita in CA states there are probably aliens here because we have only had radio for a little over 100 years and it would have taken them longer than that to get here, even with the closest stars. They were probably AI because of their advanced technology and the entire civilization may have already disappeared. Check out the Magic Flute Opera for a related idea!
Traditional Catholic in LA claims that crafts have no mass and do not behave the way they should if they were physical because they accelerate and vanish. They are really demonic illusions. How do we pick them up with physical apparatuses then? How do you know the source of this? A guy that drew a picture is not going to cut it. We can’t say that something is fake or real without doing research. We would love to know if we can summon demons as long as we don’t have to pay for it.
Andrew in OH wants to talk about the absurdity of 911 conspiracies. These theories are not even rooted in physics. There is just enough light for the believers and just enough dark for people to doubt. An act of terror is still the most likely explanation.
This was a wild episode! We went from UFOs to demons to 911! Thank you everyone and continue the conversation with us in a number of different ways. Remember to always keep wanting the truth.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

Truth Wanted 04.23 06-11-2021 with ObjectivelyDan and Jessica Bluemke Jun 12, 2021

Show notes

Hello everyone! Thank you for tuning into another fantastic episode of Truth Wanted. This week, ObjectivelyDan is joined by Jessica Bluemke Greiff!
First caller tonight is Levi in CA who asks advice on helping his mother care more about the truth. Dan was where you are now. These kinds of things come after a long time to deconstruct your beliefs, be patient with her. Usually it’s more important that they approach the world with kindness, rather than what they believe.
Uh oh. Otangelo in Brazil is trying to challenge Dan on his well known talking points. You know anti-evolution, intelligent design..the works. Otangelo tries to shift the burden of proof, apparently promoting atheism means we deny god or some crap. Otangelo, you need to come up with an argument rather than trying to call in with “gotchas”. We are happy to say “I don't know” because that gives us room to figure it out, rather than posit “god did it”.
Jason in ID asks what we know about the “third bucket”, referencing Otangelo’s 2 bucket comment. What the bleep is the third bucket? Oh it’s scientology crap. Jason says it’s a level to achieve AND a porthole to travel back in time. Yeah, uhhh. That was weird.
Uros in Siberia really believes we can’t be the only life in this universe, arguing the statistics are overwhelming. Yes, we want to talk about aliens!! If you want to believe in aliens, go for it. We are more comfortable saying it’s highly likely. It’s fun to think about possible alien life. Call back if you discover aliens.
Thank you all so much for watching. We hope you enjoyed today’s episode so go check out some of the other great shows that the ACA produces! Until next week, keep wanting the truth and watch out for the third bucket.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

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