Best Ben McClure Podcasts (2025)

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From Soil to Service: Wittel Farm’s Mission to Nourish Lancaster Featuring Rev. Dr. Matthew Lenahan - Episode 212 1:06:08

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2d ago1:06:08

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In this episode, we sit down with the Rev. Dr. Matthew Lenahan—pastor, farmer, and community organizer in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. As founder and director of the Wittel Farm Growing Project, Dr. Lenahan shares how this innovative ministry is transforming the land and lives in Lancaster County. The project, a ministry of the Luthe…

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Bringing Early Detection to Your Doorstep Featuring Teresa Richardson and Stacey Rife - Episode 211 57:19

9d ago57:19

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In this episode, we sit down with Teresa Richardson, Executive Director of Help The Fight, and Stacey Rife, Manager of Imaging Operations at WellSpan York Hospital, to discuss the vital resources available to individuals fighting breast cancer in our community. Help The Fight is a powerful grassroots organization offering a hand up—not a handout—to…

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The Big Mattress Show - Episode 210 41:21

16d ago41:21

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In this episode Ben & Jeff highlight all the ways they serve Lancaster County and use their store as a platform for connection to the community. From mattress fundraisers, The Dream Room, the Lancaster Connects Show, Gardners Gives Back - food and mattress donations, and sponsoring a student for a new pillow they see their connection to the communi…

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Hammering Out Hope in Lancaster: The Habitat for Humanity Story Featuring Andrew Szalay - Episode 209 1:03:29

23d ago1:03:29

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In this episode, we’re joined by Andrew Szalay (pronounced “Sul-lay”), President & CEO of Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity in Pennsylvania. Nicknamed the “Shelter Seeker” by Lancaster News Paper’s Sunday Magazine, Andrew has dedicated his career to supporting first-time homebuyers and advancing affordable housing. An Accredited Mortgage Profe…

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From Page to Gallery: How Nooks is Enriching Lancaster’s Creative Heart Featuring Shawn & Maile Smucker - Episode 208 1:04:37

1M ago1:04:37

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In this episode, we’re joined by Shawn and Maile Smucker, the husband-and-wife team behind Nooks, a charming independent bookshop in Lancaster, PA. Maile is a writer, mother of six, and the day-to-day heart of the store, while Shawn is a seasoned author and ghostwriter with over 30 co-written books and five novels of his own. Together, they’re not …

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Opening Doors in Lancaster: The Story of Lancaster Door Service Featuring Pete Rothacker and Greg Mavraganis - Episode 207 1:02:27

1M ago1:02:27

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In this episode, we sit down with Pete Rothacker and Greg Mavraganis to explore the journey of Lancaster Door Service (LDS), a trusted name in garage door, window, and entry door installation and repair throughout Lancaster County since 1996. Pete, a Lancaster native and Penn State alum, shares how LDS was built on the foundation of honest service,…

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Where Kids Unplug and Faith Comes Alive: Inside Woodcrest Retreat Featuring Bill Klees and Kailey Hurst - Episode 206 50:52

2M ago50:52

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In this episode, we’re joined by Bill Klees and Kailey Hurst from Woodcrest Retreat, a ministry with a legacy of over 65 years impacting lives in Lancaster County and beyond. Bill and Kailey share the heart behind Woodcrest’s vibrant summer youth camp program, where over 2,000 campers step away from the ordinary to experience the extraordinary. But…

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Helping You Sleep Better, Live Better — Our Promise, Not Just Our Pitch: EP 205 44:44

2M ago44:44

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In this episode of Lancaster Connects, we pull back the curtain and share what drives us every day — beyond the beds, beyond the showroom. We dive into the why behind our business: our Purpose, our Mission, and the Core Values that guide every customer interaction, every mattress recommendation, and every decision we make. If you’ve ever wondered w…

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The Shawl of Suspicion: Why we still don’t know the identity of Jack the Ripper – Mike Hall 1:02:01

2M ago1:02:01

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Jack the Ripper is one of the most well-known serial killers in history, with stories of his gruesome exploits permeating popular culture to an unprecedented degree. Despite almost 150 years having passed since the appalling Whitechapel murders, we are still none the wiser about who he was, what drove his terrible crimes, or why they suddenly stopp…

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Feeding Millions, Fueling Hope: The Blessings of Hope Story Continues Featuring David Lapp - Episode 204 55:06

2M ago55:06

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In this episode, we welcome David Lapp, CEO and co-founder of Blessings of Hope, a nonprofit organization based in Lancaster, PA, that’s making a national impact. Under David’s leadership, Blessings of Hope provides over 27 million meals annually through a powerful combination of strategic food distribution and community partnerships. With a deep h…

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Homes, Heart, and Helping Others: The Life Changes Realty Way Featuring Brittany Garner - Episode 203 56:07

2M ago56:07

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In this episode, we sit down with Brittany Garner, Owner, Broker, and CEO of Life Changes Realty Group. Brittany shares how her heart-led approach to real estate is transforming lives—not just through buying and selling homes, but through building community and giving back. With a mission rooted in care, integrity, and client-first service, Brittan…

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Local Roots, Big League Insight: The Stormers Through Troy Steffy’s Eyes - Episode 202 1:06:45

2M ago1:06:45

1:06:45

In this episode, we sit down with Lancaster County native Troy Steffy, whose impressive baseball résumé spans Major League scouting, coaching with USA Baseball, and athlete development at both the collegiate and professional levels. With certifications in sports biomechanics and years of hands-on experience—including six years as director of sports…

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The Cane Only Works If You Use It – Cass Peters 1:38:27

3M ago1:38:27

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Nearly one in four Britons has a disability, and many of them would benefit from a mobility aid or other piece of assistive technology. However, studies show a consistent trend of low compliance, sometimes as little as 50% depending on demographics. Non-use and underuse of needed aids has a host of negative impacts, including excess pain and disabi…

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Serving Homes, Fueling Creativity - A Conversation with Rachel Kantner - Episode 201 1:04:19

3M ago1:04:19

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In this episode, we talk with Rachel Kantner, Business Development Manager at Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical — a women-led, veteran-led company proudly serving Lancaster County since 1904. Rachel shares how their team delivers trusted residential services with upfront pricing, personalized care, and a 5-star commitment to custome…

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The Heart of Lancaster—200 Stories of Purpose, People, and Impact - Episode 200 1:09:44

3M ago1:09:44

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200 episodes. Hundreds of community champions. One unwavering mission. In this special milestone episode, we reflect on what Lancaster Connects has become: more than just a podcast, it’s a community platform rooted in connection, impact, and purpose. From day one, we set out to spotlight the people and causes that make Lancaster extraordinary. Toda…

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Dream Big, Fund Smart: Gardner’s Mattress & More Announces $25,000 in Local Grants - Episode 199 1:05:36

3M ago1:05:36

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Transform how your school raises funds—forever. This week on Lancaster Connects, discover Gardner's Mattress & More's groundbreaking Sleep Better Mattress Fundraiser Program, the first initiative of its kind in Lancaster County. Instead of traditional Popcorn, Hoagie or Coupon sales that often disappoint, this innovative partnership offers schools …

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Compassion in Action: The Heart Behind Help The Fight Featuring Teresa Richardson & Lynda Charles - Episode 198 1:00:55

3M ago1:00:55

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In this episode, we sit down with Teresa Richardson & Lynda Charles of Help The Fight, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals in the battle against breast cancer. Teresa shares the heart and mission behind Help The Fight—an organization that offers not handouts, but a hand up to those courageously navigating treatment or in ne…

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More Than HVAC: Building Trust with Vertex Mechanical Featuring Josh Vanderplate - Episode 197 1:00:14

4M ago1:00:14

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In this episode, we sit down with Joshua Vanderplate, CEO of Vertex Mechanical, a trusted name in heating, cooling, electrical, and plumbing services for over 40 years. Serving Lancaster, Berks, and Lebanon counties, Vertex Mechanical has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship, community-focused service, and their enduring motto: Here For You…

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Housing with Heart - Off The Streets Lancaster Featuring Jim Dornes - Episode 196 59:42

4M ago59:42

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In this episode of Lancaster Connects, Jim Dornes, incoming president of Off The Streets Lancaster, discusses how Off The Streets helps individuals transition from homelessness to permanent housing by providing security, homes and furnishings. The emotional highlight includes Gardner's Mattress and More receiving recognition from Lancaster's Mayor …

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Supporting Every Ability: How Aaron’s Acres Changes Lives Featuring Kate Mullen & Risa Paskoff - Episode 195 1:03:46

4M ago1:03:46

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In this episode, we welcome Kate Mullen, Director of Development & Community Relations, and Risa Paskoff, Executive Director of Aaron’s Acres. Since 1998, Aaron’s Acres has been creating life-changing opportunities for individuals with disabilities by offering inclusive social and recreational programs that empower participants to learn, grow, and …

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Snake Oil on the Shopping List? How Pseudoscience Ends Up in Your Shopping Cart – Dr Rebecca Wismeg Kammerlander 1:28:05

4M ago1:28:05

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From biodynamic veggies to detox cures, our supermarkets are full of products that are pure woo. One moment you’re picking up cold medicine, the next you’re eyeing a bottle of homeopathic sugar pearls. You finally decide to get started with a skin care routine, a moment later your money ends up in the pocket of an anthroposophical brand. And those …

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Building Brighter Futures in Lancaster, One Match at a Time Featuring Amanda Dunn & Sami Burdick - Episode 194 59:36

4M ago59:36

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In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Dunn, Vice President of Programs, and Sami Burdick, Outreach and Community Relations Manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA. Amanda shares how her extensive background in education and deep commitment to mentorship have guided her leadership in building inclusive, innovative youth programs. …

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Spirits with Soul: How Lancaster Distilleries Blends Art and Agriculture - Episode 193 59:08

5M ago59:08

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In this episode, we sit down with Nate Boring, partner at Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse and founder of Lancaster Distilleries, a thriving craft distillery based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Nate shares how his background as an artist and craftsman inspired his journey into distilling, leading to the launch of Lancaster Distilleries in 2018. We explo…

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Harmony in the Park: Community, Culture, and Connection Featuring Kristin Chronister - Episode 192 56:46

5M ago56:46

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In this episode, we’re joined by Kristin Chronister, President of the Long’s Park Amphitheater Foundation, to dive into the incredible legacy and ongoing impact of one of Lancaster’s most cherished cultural institutions. For over 60 years, the Foundation has connected the community through its signature Summer Music Series—featuring twelve weeks of…

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God Awful Gaming – Noah Lugeons 1:16:01

5M ago1:16:01

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In this talk, Noah Lugeons combines two of his passions; video game history and terrible Christian media. In so doing, he explores both the history of Christian video games and the larger role that Christianity has played in the development of secular games. In a who’s who of the worst video games of all time, Noah will guide the audience through a…

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100 Years of Heritage: Landis Valley’s Legacy in Lancaster Featuring Shawn Gladden - Episode 191 57:09

5M ago57:09

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In this episode, we welcome Shawn Gladden, Site Administrator of Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum — a living history museum in Lancaster, PA dedicated to preserving Pennsylvania German heritage from 1740 to 1940. With over 20 years of museum leadership experience, Shawn shares how he’s guiding Landis Valley into its 100th anniversary in 2025. Fr…

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A Mission for Health Equity in Lancaster Featuring Andrea Murray - Episode 190 54:33

5M ago54:33

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In this episode, we’re joined by Andrea Murray, Director of Community Impact at Union Community Care, a nonprofit healthcare provider that has been serving communities for over 50 years. Andrea shares how Union is reshaping healthcare by focusing on people, not profit—delivering accessible, inclusive, and high-quality care that’s grounded in the un…

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Restoring Hope and Transforming Lives in Lancaster Featuring Sandy Gambone - Episode 189 59:44

5M ago59:44

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In this episode, we chat with Sandy Gambone, Senior Business Ambassador at Water Street Mission, who has spent nearly six years connecting businesses and nonprofits to support Lancaster’s efforts against homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity. A passionate community leader, Sandy was the first recipient of the Aaron L. Groff Servant Leader Awar…

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Gardner's Introduces Avocado Mattresses to Lancaster! - Episode 188 49:58

6M ago49:58

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In today's special edition, we dive deep into the world of natural and organic mattresses with a spotlight on the Avocado Green Mattress. Ben takes us on a journey to explore why natural materials are becoming a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. Together with Producer Chris Stone of Cast Ahead, we unravel the benefits of these eco-frie…

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Healing and Independence: Inside North Star Initiative's Mission Featuring Melinda Clark - Episode 187 58:31

6M ago58:31

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In this episode, we sit down with Melinda Clark, CEO at North Star Initiative. Join us as we discuss her journey, challenges, and the inspiring work she’s doing to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable women.By Jeff Giagnocavo, Ben McClure

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Supporting Our Officers: Friends of the Ephrata Police Foundation Featuring Steve Aronson & Chris McKim - Episode 186 54:55

6M ago54:55

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In this episode, we sit down with two distinguished leaders who have dedicated their careers to public service and community engagement. Steve Aronson, President and Founder of the Friends of the Ephrata Police Foundation, shares his extensive experience as a community volunteer. Prior to his leadership role at the Foundation, Steve served as Chair…

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The Progressive Parent: Kavin Senapathy on science, justice, and the future of humanity – Kavin Senapathy 1:23:54

6M ago1:23:54

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What adults do for children today is shaping how humanity will ultimately fare. How can parents and other adults leverage information and resources to oppose bigotry and do the best for kids? In this presentation, Kavin Senapathy will discuss their book, The Progressive Parent: Harnessing the Power of Science and Social Justice to Raise Awesome Kid…

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Hope, Strength & Community: A Family’s Journey for Care and a Workout for Good - Episode 185 58:35

6M ago58:35

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Join us for a very special Lancaster Connects conversation that will touch your heart and inspire action! We're chatting with Carole and Dave Simons, whose daughter Sammie became permanently disabled after a life-changing event at an early age. Through Sammie's journey, Friendship Community was born—a remarkable local nonprofit cultivating capabili…

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Addiction Prevention & Recovery in Lancaster PA Featuring Amy Sechrist - Episode 184 1:00:57

7M ago1:00:57

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In this episode, we chat with Amy Sechrist, CPS, Communications Coordinator at Compass Mark, a nonprofit focused on preventing substance misuse and problem gambling in Central PA. Amy shares her journey from a fine arts degree to becoming a board-certified addiction prevention specialist, and how she helps individuals navigate treatment and recover…

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Connecting Lancaster: Technology and Community Featuring John Erisman - Episode 183 56:35

7M ago56:35

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In this episode, we chat with John Erisman, a community-driven professional with over 25 years of experience in Lancaster County. John has been with Stratix Systems for 3+ years, where the company focuses on Managed IT, content management, and imaging. He’s also actively involved in local initiatives, including the Lancaster Stormers and as a socia…

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Atheism, Religion, and Human Nature: The Evolutionary Puzzles of Faith and Atheism – Dr Will Gervais 1:29:49

7M ago1:29:49

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We’re all members of a very strange species. But where lots of human peculiarities – from art to warfare and beyond – have analogues across the animal kingdom, we stand alone as the only religious species. Yet, within our otherwise religious species, atheism is currently flourishing in large parts of the world. I’ll discuss research highlighted in …

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Ask Ben & Jeff: Choosing The Perfect Sheets - Episode 182 50:25

7M ago50:25

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This episode brings a unique twist as we delve into the often-overlooked realm of bedding essentials — sheets. While Gardner's Mattress and More, our sponsor, buzzes with activity on Presidents' Day, we take a quiet moment to explore how the right set of sheets can transform your sleep experience. Joined by our producer, Chris Stone, we unpack the …

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The Sound of Evolution: Celebrating Black Music & Community Featuring Jeannette Wehye - Episode 181 58:12

7M ago58:12

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In this episode, we’re joined by Jeannette Wehye of THEM Collective (To Heal and Encourage Musically), a musical group based in Central Pennsylvania. Alongside DeJuan Rosado, Jeannette leads the collective in its mission to use music as a transformative tool to heal, inspire, and empower communities, particularly youth. In this conversation, Jeanne…

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Spotlight on Reji Woods: Transforming Theater in Lancaster Featuring Reji Woods - Episode 180 1:00:48

8M ago1:00:48

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In this episode, we chat with Reji Woods, an actor, director, and producer making his EPAC directorial debut. With a career spanning Broadway, Off-Broadway, national tours, and international stages, Reji has also appeared in TV shows like Orange Is the New Black and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and films like Tapawingo. He’s the co-founder of Bending…

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Ask Ben & Jeff: Choosing The Perfect Pillow - Episode 179 50:38

8M ago50:38

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Welcome to a new episode of Lancaster Connects! In this week's episode, Ben dives into the fascinating world of sleep accessories, with a special focus on choosing the perfect pillow. Gain insights into how the right pillow can transform your sleep, alleviate pain, and enhance your overall well-being. Ben shares the expertise amassed at Gardner's M…

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SitPO – Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 16 – Is the Smoking Gun Enough? – Ben O’Brien 16:13

8M ago16:13

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:In spite of advancements in the field of forensic science, questionable practices and outright unproven methods still often get admitted into American court r…

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SitPO – Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 15 – What Mental Health Crisis? Psychiatrization & Social Media – Shayna Weisz 14:56

8M ago14:56

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:1 in 8 people globally are affected by a mental disorder, yet despite research, knowledge and awareness efforts, mental health is still increasing at an alarm…

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SitPO – Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 14 – Why can’t they just behave? – Caradoc Gething 16:40

8M ago16:40

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:The dubious rants of an aging teacher, regarding discipline and punishment in schools and why we've never had it so bad, or good, depending on who you listen …

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Blazing the Field: A Deep Dive with Lancaster Inferno Featuring Francisco Cleaves and Teresa Rook - Episode 178 57:47

8M ago57:47

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In this episode, we sit down with Francisco Cleaves, President of Lancaster Inferno, and Teresa Rook, a former professional soccer player and coach. Francisco shares his journey from growing up in Honduras to leading Lancaster Inferno to multiple championships. With a coaching career spanning high school, college, and professional soccer, he earned…

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SitPO – Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 13 – A Comedy of Errors (and Overcrowding) – The Prison Population Crisis – Emma McClure 16:03

8M ago16:03

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:Last year prison lawyer Emma ran a long way to make an over-laboured point about prison conditions. The sequel calls for an even more ridiculous stunt... So E…

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SitPO – Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 12 – Who owns AI?- Phil Armstrong 14:29

8M ago14:29

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:Proponents of AI promise that AI will lead to the the democratisation of knowledge, but it is ultimately owned by various companies and investors. Who are the…

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Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 11 – Postnatal Psychosis and me – Karin McClure 15:01

8M ago15:01

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:A talk about my experience literally losing the plot with Postnatal Psychosis and what it's like to experience psychiatric care on the NHS About the speaker:K…

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Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 10 – A priest, a viking, and a seamonster walked into a lake – Fredrik Trusohamn 16:05

8M ago16:05

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:From where do the stories about sea serpents, draugr, and trolls originate? In the case of one of Europe's oldest lake monster, the story seems to originate f…

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Lititz Legacy: Stories from the Historical Foundation Featuring Cory Van Brookhoven - Episode 177

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In this episode, we chat with Cory Van Brookhoven, a third-generation Lititz historian and President of the Lititz Historical Foundation. Cory has written over 150 articles and four books on the area's history, and since 2013, has led the foundation in preserving Lititz’s rich heritage. The foundation, founded in 1961, maintains two 18th-century bu…

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Skepticamp 2024 – Talk 9 – The cane only works if you use it – Cass Peters 15:53

8M ago15:53

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This audio is a part of the Skepticamp 2024 event, that happened on October 18th 2024 in Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester and was livestreamed at https://www.twitch.tv/sitp About the talk:Nearly 1 in 4 Britons has some form of disability and, at least in theory, has access to a system that is designed to get them the accommodations that they ne…