http://www.chariotsofiron.com A critical review of faith and religion in the light of reason Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:42:00 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1 An atheiskeptihumanist(tm) podcast created by three like-minded atheists from different religious backgrounds. This podcast covers current events, science, church and state separation, and other pertinent topics that are of interest to freethinkers. A critical review of faith and religion in the light of reason The Charioteers http://www.chariotsofiron.com/imgs/podcast.jpghttp://www.chariotsofiron.com atheism,atheist,agnostic,secular,religion,science,philosophy yes The Charioteers charioteers@chariotsofiron.com http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2012/01/658 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2012/01/658#comments Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:41:34 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=658 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2012/01/658/feed 2 The charming and funny Dr. Darrel Ray returns to the show to discuss his exciting new book, Sex & God: How Religion Distorts Sexuality. This show was recorded on January 7, but I am a giant moron. I edited and uploaded the audio files as usual, but DID NOT update the actual feed. I am really, really sorry. Also, it’s worth mentioning that we’ve made some changes to our format. We’ll be discussing some of those changes, and ideas we have for the show on our next episode. Let’s hope I actually post that one to the feed on time. The charming and funny Dr. Darrel Ray returns to the show to discuss his exciting new book, Sex & God: How Religion Distorts Sexuality. This show was recorded on January 7, but I am a giant moron. I edited and uploaded the audio files as usual, [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/11/654 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/11/654#comments Sun, 27 Nov 2011 09:23:38 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=654 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/11/654/feed 0 In this episode, David Silverman, president of American Atheists, joins us to talk about the upcoming Reason Rally and other things going on in the atheist community. Before that, Eli and Lamar read listener mail and announce future changes to the show. NOTE: This show was recorded on November 12, 2011. Yet another show released way too late and yet another apology to go with it. Perhaps one day we’ll have our shit together. In this episode, David Silverman, president of American Atheists, joins us to talk about the upcoming Reason Rally and other things going on in the atheist community. Before that, Eli and Lamar read listener mail and announce future changes to the [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/10/646 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/10/646#comments Sat, 22 Oct 2011 04:11:08 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=646 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/10/646/feed 1 Lamar and Eli get together and discuss Occupy Wall Street, the Republican presidential candidates, a list of poorly thought out defenses to so called common objections to Christianity, and whatever else came to mind. NOTE: This show was recorded on October 15, 2011. We sincerely apologize for the lateness of this release. Lamar and Eli get together and discuss Occupy Wall Street, the Republican presidential candidates, a list of poorly thought out defenses to so called common objections to Christianity, and whatever else came to mind. NOTE: This show was recorded on [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/10/644 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/10/644#comments Sat, 22 Oct 2011 04:02:04 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=644 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/10/644/feed 3 The title is a bit tongue-in-cheek, but it does come up on the show and Humanism is the primary subject in Eli’s interview with Jennifer Hancock. Before that, Lamar and Eli spend a good hour and a half discussing current events and listener mail. NOTE: This show was recorded on October 1, 2011 and the interview with Jennifer Hancock was recorded even earlier. We sincerely apologize for the lateness of this release. The title is a bit tongue-in-cheek, but it does come up on the show and Humanism is the primary subject in Eli’s interview with Jennifer Hancock. Before that, Lamar and Eli spend a good hour and a half discussing current events and listener mail. [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/09/641 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/09/641#comments Tue, 06 Sep 2011 07:03:39 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=641 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/09/641/feed 4 Lamar and Eli are back after an unexpectedly long break with plenty of email and commentary on the state of American politics. This episode also contains two interviews; one with film maker, Roger Nygard and another with Nick Lee of Atheist Alliance America. Both interviews were conducted by Eli. Lamar and Eli are back after an unexpectedly long break with plenty of email and commentary on the state of American politics. This episode also contains two interviews; one with film maker, Roger Nygard and another with Nick Lee of Atheist [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/06/635 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/06/635#comments Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:17:52 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=635 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/06/635/feed 6 In this episode, Eli and I present the winners of the Nature of Existence Contest we announced in Episode 70. While reading the submissions, I butcher the word “garrote,” sorry Michael. In this episode, Eli and I present the winners of the Nature of Existence Contest we announced in Episode 70. While reading the submissions, I butcher the word “garrote,” sorry Michael. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/05/632 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/05/632#comments Sun, 22 May 2011 05:27:56 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=632 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/05/632/feed 0 Eli is back just in time for our pre-rapture episode. As many of you may already know, today is the day that all of the True Christians™ are swept into the clouds to be with Jesus—at least, that is, according to Harold Camping. Eli is back just in time for our pre-rapture episode. As many of you may already know, today is the day that all of the True Christians™ are swept into the clouds to be with Jesus—at least, that is, according to Harold Camping. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/05/628 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/05/628#comments Fri, 06 May 2011 01:18:41 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=628 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/05/628/feed 8 In this episode, Dustin Williams once again teams up with Lamar as co-host while Eli is away. The Bible Geek, Dr. Robert M. Price joins the conversation in the second half of the show to share his views as an atheist practicing Christianity. In this episode, Dustin Williams once again teams up with Lamar as co-host while Eli is away. The Bible Geek, Dr. Robert M. Price joins the conversation in the second half of the show to share his views as an atheist practicing Christianity. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/04/625 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/04/625#comments Sat, 23 Apr 2011 06:02:12 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=625 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/04/625/feed 1 Eli is out this week, but our good friend Dustin sits in as co-host. Together we go through the mail bag before we yammer on about Idaho’s new abortion law and atheistic Christianity, among other things. Eli is out this week, but our good friend Dustin sits in as co-host. Together we go through the mail bag before we yammer on about Idaho’s new abortion law and atheistic Christianity, among other things. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/618 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/618#comments Tue, 29 Mar 2011 05:47:59 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=618 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/618/feed 1 In this episode, we are once again joined by Roger Nygard. We discuss Roger’s latest project, The Nature of Existence, as well as his next project, The Nature of Marriage. We also announce our first contest ever, allowing our listeners a shot at winning The Nature of Existence on DVD by answering a few of the questions examined in the film. Just click on the “contest” link in our main menu for more details. In this episode, we are once again joined by Roger Nygard. We discuss Roger’s latest project, The Nature of Existence, as well as his next project, The Nature of Marriage. We also announce our first contest ever, allowing our listeners a shot at [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/605 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/605#comments Tue, 15 Mar 2011 16:34:44 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=605 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/605/feed 0 The original idea for this show was to have Dr. Hector Avalos come on as a part of our series on the historicity of Jesus. While that topic was covered in this episode, the conversation shifted to a discussion about slavery in the Bible and Dr. Avalos’ latest project concerning that very topic. With that in mind, instead of making this episode part 3 in our series, we opted to make it part 2½. The original idea for this show was to have Dr. Hector Avalos come on as a part of our series on the historicity of Jesus. While that topic was covered in this episode, the conversation shifted to a discussion about slavery in the Bible and Dr. [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/592 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/592#comments Thu, 03 Mar 2011 06:34:45 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=592 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/03/592/feed 2 In this episode the Charioteers are joined by their first guest from the land down under, Jake Farr-Wharton, author of Letters to Christian Leaders – Hollow by thy Claims. In this episode the Charioteers are joined by their first guest from the land down under, Jake Farr-Wharton, author of Letters to Christian Leaders – Hollow by thy Claims. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/02/589 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/02/589#comments Wed, 16 Feb 2011 08:44:40 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=589 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/02/589/feed 0 Lamar was absent for this episode and Dustin Williams, atheist blogger and former Seventh Day Adventist, stepped in to co-host the show with Eli. Dustin and Eli discuss current events, the turmoil in Egypt and listener mail before they’re joined by Rich and Deanna Joy, hosts of Living After Faith, the official podcast of Recovering Religionists. Lamar was absent for this episode and Dustin Williams, atheist blogger and former Seventh Day Adventist, stepped in to co-host the show with Eli. Dustin and Eli discuss current events, the turmoil in Egypt and listener mail before they’re joined [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/02/583 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/02/583#comments Tue, 01 Feb 2011 20:36:31 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=583 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/02/583/feed 3 In this episode, Dustin Williams comes back to talk about closet atheists within the Seventh Day Adventist church. He also takes part in news and listener mail segments, being first guest in many months to be on for the full duration of the show. In this episode, Dustin Williams comes back to talk about closet atheists within the Seventh Day Adventist church. He also takes part in news and listener mail segments, being first guest in many months to be on for the full duration of the show. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/01/581 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/01/581#comments Fri, 21 Jan 2011 10:19:28 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=581 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2011/01/581/feed 0 Our old friend, Dr. Darrel Ray, joins the show this week to talk about his survey on sex and secularism, among other things. During the listener mail segment, Lamar pronounces ‘latrine’ with an ‘R’. Apparently his Japanese wife’s ‘Engrish’ is rubbing off on him. Our old friend, Dr. Darrel Ray, joins the show this week to talk about his survey on sex and secularism, among other things. During the listener mail segment, Lamar pronounces ‘latrine’ with an ‘R’. Apparently his Japanese wife’s [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/12/579 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/12/579#comments Sat, 25 Dec 2010 06:16:59 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=579 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/12/579/feed 0 This is the third Christmas for Chariots of Iron, and little seems to change. It is this time of year, during the most celebrated cultural event in the world, that Christians everywhere wail on about how persecuted they are. Well, screw ‘em! With plenty of listener mail and crazy news, Lamar and Eli top off the season with a few laughs over the perpetual war on Christmas and vaginal steam baths. This is the third Christmas for Chariots of Iron, and little seems to change. It is this time of year, during the most celebrated cultural event in the world, that Christians everywhere wail on about how persecuted they are. Well, screw ‘em! With [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/11/576 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/11/576#comments Sat, 27 Nov 2010 00:46:51 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=576 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/11/576/feed 0 You all may remember our friend, Roger Nygard, from Episode 51: Pondering Existence. Well, he’s back again to discuss his documentary, The Nature of Existence and gives us the skinny on his upcoming project, The Nature of Marriage. Also this week, the political discussion continues as Eli and Lamar answer listener mail. You all may remember our friend, Roger Nygard, from Episode 51: Pondering Existence. Well, he’s back again to discuss his documentary, The Nature of Existence and gives us the skinny on his upcoming project, The Nature of Marriage. Also this [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/11/574 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/11/574#comments Thu, 11 Nov 2010 23:51:54 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=574 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/11/574/feed 0 This week, Eli and Lamar are one their own. The topic is politics, and between the election results and politically charged listener mail, there was plenty to talk about. This week, Eli and Lamar are one their own. The topic is politics, and between the election results and politically charged listener mail, there was plenty to talk about. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/572 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/572#comments Tue, 26 Oct 2010 02:53:46 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=572 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/572/feed 0 This week, the boys are joined by Leo Behe, son of biochemist and intelligent design advocate, Michael Behe. Leo is a recent apostate from the Catholic faith and he tells us about his deconversion and how that’s affected his relationship with his family. But before that, as always, Lamar and Eli discuss current events and listener mail. This week, the boys are joined by Leo Behe, son of biochemist and intelligent design advocate, Michael Behe. Leo is a recent apostate from the Catholic faith and he tells us about his deconversion and how that’s affected his relationship with his [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/570 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/570#comments Mon, 18 Oct 2010 03:05:55 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=570 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/570/feed 0 Once again, Dustin Williams joins the show to talk about the Seventh Day Adventist church, end time prophecy, and his continual growth as an atheist. Before that, Eli and Lamar discuss current events and listener mail. Once again, Dustin Williams joins the show to talk about the Seventh Day Adventist church, end time prophecy, and his continual growth as an atheist. Before that, Eli and Lamar discuss current events and listener mail. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/568 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/568#comments Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:16:32 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=568 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/10/568/feed 0 Eli and Lamar are joined by Jennifer Hancock, author of The Humanist Approach To Happiness. She discusses her book, the philosophy behind it and the need it fills in secular society. Before that, Eli and Lamar riff on the news and listener mail. Eli and Lamar are joined by Jennifer Hancock, author of The Humanist Approach To Happiness. She discusses her book, the philosophy behind it and the need it fills in secular society. Before that, Eli and Lamar riff on the news and listener mail. http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/09/566 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/09/566#comments Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:27:37 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=566 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/09/566/feed 0 In this episode, David McAfee joins Eli and Lamar for a discussion about his book, Disproving Christianity: Refuting the World’s Most Followed Religion. Before the interview, Lamar and Eli talk about freaky circumcision rituals, Sharron Angle craziness, Glenn Beck’s inner Mormon, Hindu human sacrifice, a new trend in childhood indoctrination, bible based MMO game and religious charities and their sense of entitlement. In this episode, David McAfee joins Eli and Lamar for a discussion about his book, Disproving Christianity: Refuting the World’s Most Followed Religion. Before the interview, Lamar and Eli talk about freaky circumcision rituals, Sharron Angle [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/08/561 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/08/561#comments Thu, 19 Aug 2010 20:12:10 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=561 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/08/561/feed 1 In this episode we discuss the upcoming Atheist Alliance International convention in Montreal and we revisit the topic of charismatic leaders and community involvement among atheists. Joining the conversation we have the president of AAI, Stuart Bechman. Before the interview: kids get a phone call from God, Sharon Angle is f*cking nuts, Gas pump exiles the godless, Pope denies resignation of kiddie diddle cover up artists, American Atheists criticize NY governor’s tax subsidized mosque idea, Army chaplains “treat” PTSD, Christian organization spreads lies about birth control pills and Catholic website offers tips for arguing against gay marriage. In this episode we discuss the upcoming Atheist Alliance International convention in Montreal and we revisit the topic of charismatic leaders and community involvement among atheists. Joining the conversation we have the president of AAI, Stuart [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/08/558 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/08/558#comments Wed, 04 Aug 2010 21:21:57 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=558 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/08/558/feed 0 Eli and Lamar revisit the topic of Seventh Day Adventists, but this time we have someone that actually knows what their talking about joining us. Dustin Williams, a one time SDA ministry hopeful, discusses the church and his deconversion into apostasy. Before the interview, Lamar and Eli break down David Barton’s nationalistic nuttery, The New Apostolic Reformation, Obama rushing in the Apocalypse, creationism down on the bayou and other craziness that has been in the news lately. Eli and Lamar revisit the topic of Seventh Day Adventists, but this time we have someone that actually knows what their talking about joining us. Dustin Williams, a one time SDA ministry hopeful, discusses the church and his deconversion into [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/07/556 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/07/556#comments Fri, 23 Jul 2010 01:00:15 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=556 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/07/556/feed 0 We continue our discussion on the historicity of Jesus with Rene Salm, author of The Myth Of Nazareth: The Invented Town Of Jesus. Rene talks about his extensive research into the first century town of Nazareth, and his conclusion that it didn’t exist. Before the interview, Eli and Lamar ramble about religious debates on immigration, gay rights vs. chaplain rights, We continue our discussion on the historicity of Jesus with Rene Salm, author of The Myth Of Nazareth: The Invented Town Of Jesus. Rene talks about his extensive research into the first century town of Nazareth, and his conclusion that it didn’t [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/07/552 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/07/552#comments Tue, 06 Jul 2010 19:26:23 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=552 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/07/552/feed 0 Richard Haynes, Life Without Faith blogger and director of Atheist Nexus, joins us for a discussion about the future of Atheist Nexus and and the atheist community in general. But, before that, Eli and Lamar talk about Australia’s atheist prime minister, the secular billboard campaign in North Carolina, the crazy that is Sharron Angle, the Belgian raids on Catholic institutions, homeopathy getting dropped from the NHS, and listener mail. Richard Haynes, Life Without Faith blogger and director of Atheist Nexus, joins us for a discussion about the future of Atheist Nexus and and the atheist community in general. But, before that, Eli and Lamar talk about Australia’s atheist prime [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/548 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/548#comments Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:31:35 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=548 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/548/feed 2 Dr. Darrel Ray makes his second appearance on Chariots of Iron, almost a full year after our “Inoculating Against the God Virus” episode. This time around, Darrel discusses his work doing leadership conferences, his Recovering Religionists organization and everyone’s favorite fellating, tweaker evangelist Ted Haggard. Before the interview: Jew on Jew ethnic prejudice, a minor digression on claims of antisemitism, Mark Souder blames extramarital affair on inefficacy of prayer, radiocarbon dating proved effective yet again and the reasons atheists should celebrate holidays regardless of their religious roots. Dr. Darrel Ray makes his second appearance on Chariots of Iron, almost a full year after our “Inoculating Against the God Virus” episode. This time around, Darrel discusses his work doing leadership conferences, his Recovering Religionists [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/545 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/545#comments Mon, 21 Jun 2010 19:01:31 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=545 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/545/feed 1 Frank Zindler, author of The Jesus the Jews Never Knew, joins the show for a discussion about the historicity of Jesus; specifically the evidence, or lack of evidence, from often cited Jewish sources. This is the first part of what will become a multi-part series on the historicity of Jesus. Before the interview, Lamar and Eli talk about recent poll numbers inspired by the National Day of Prayer controversy, Catholic bishops taking a stand against ENDA, creationism in Russia and Bill Nye the Science Guy being named Humanist of the Year. Frank Zindler, author of The Jesus the Jews Never Knew, joins the show for a discussion about the historicity of Jesus; specifically the evidence, or lack of evidence, from often cited Jewish sources. This is the first part of what will become a [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/541 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/541#comments Mon, 07 Jun 2010 22:03:34 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=541 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/06/541/feed 1 Filmmaker, Roger Nygard, joins us to to talk about the big questions and discuss his new documentary, The Nature of Existence. Roger put a questionnaire on his site asking visitors to discuss what they believe, and encourages you all to check it out and give your own answers to life’s big questions. Before the interview, Eli and Lamar discuss some of the crazy stuff they’ve seen in the news lately, such as: Billy Joel’s daughter attempting suicide with a homeopathic overdose, one man standing up to the Christian infiltration of the military, new science that totally proves God’s existence, a new kind of mile high club, and Pelosi pandering to papists. Also on this show, just before dedicating it to the now deceased heavy metal legend Ronnie James Dio, Eli and Lamar offer a farewell toast to, Joe, their fellow podcaster and co-founder. The three parted company last week and this is the first episode after the line-up change. You can still hear Joe on the Atheist News podcast where he and Brother Richard continue to dish on the crazies while Eli and Lamar forge ahead with Chariots of Iron. Filmmaker, Roger Nygard, joins us to to talk about the big questions and discuss his new documentary, The Nature of Existence. Roger put a questionnaire on his site asking visitors to discuss what they believe, and encourages you all to check it [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/05/539 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/05/539#comments Thu, 13 May 2010 16:19:36 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=539 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/05/539/feed 1 With our sincere apologies, we bring you our very late, latest episode. Please forgive our tardiness and our wretched sound quality. When I say wretched sound quality, I mean fucking awful. In this episode, we discuss the Tea Party, Hutaree and America’s angry political climate. We’re fortunate enough to be Joined by Brother Richard, who brings some political balance to the discussion. With our sincere apologies, we bring you our very late, latest episode. Please forgive our tardiness and our wretched sound quality. When I say wretched sound quality, I mean fucking awful. In this episode, we discuss the Tea Party, Hutaree and [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/04/537 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/04/537#comments Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:27:50 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=537 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/04/537/feed 0 Hey folks, if you haven’t noticed by now, episode 50 is a little late in coming, so we’re proud to announce the first (and possibly only) half-episode. If you’ve listened to show 49 you’ll know that Eli attended the American Atheist Convention in Newark, New Jersey recently. While there he had a chance to sit down with Sean Faircloth, former 10-year Maine State Senator and current Executive Director of the Secular Coalition for America and conduct a brief interview. For those of you used to our more “jocular” interviews this is sure to disappoint, it is high on information and low on dick jokes. Eli has promised to do better next time. Hey folks, if you haven’t noticed by now, episode 50 is a little late in coming, so we’re proud to announce the first (and possibly only) half-episode. If you’ve listened to show 49 you’ll know that Eli attended the American Atheist [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/04/535 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/04/535#comments Fri, 02 Apr 2010 21:19:24 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=535 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/04/535/feed 1 This week we were very excited to have our buddy Kurt, the co-coordinator of our local CFI chapter in the studio with us to talk about building atheist communities and why he thinks it’s important. We learned a lot about what the CFI does and how one would go about setting up a CFI affiliate in their own town–which appears to be surprisingly easy. Kurt also brought us some beer, and Eli busted out some bourbon, so we were a little buzzed for the show and giggled like children through the whole thing. We are now wrestling with the sad truth that we are far more entertaining when slightly drunk, and may need to start budgeting for a couple of six-packs every show just to meet our own expectations. Note to Knitting Posse: Kurt wants to purchase a pirate beanie; your fame is spreading! This week we were very excited to have our buddy Kurt, the co-coordinator of our local CFI chapter in the studio with us to talk about building atheist communities and why he thinks it’s important. We learned a lot about what the CFI does and how [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/533 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/533#comments Sat, 20 Mar 2010 04:17:44 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=533 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/533/feed 0 Larry Anderson, star of the 40 minute Scientology film Orientation, joins Joe and Eli for a rousing conversation about the auditing, e-meters, Battlefield Earth, Cult of Xenu and the money they owe him for services not rendered. But, before the interview, Lamar, Eli and Joe discuss current events; namely, they dish on Glenn Beck, the Tea Party morons and wingnut climate change deniers. After that they read listener mail and reexamine the words “retard” and “retarded” when used to describe creationists, faith healers, new-age hippies and the angry white men of neoconservative punditry. Larry Anderson, star of the 40 minute Scientology film Orientation, joins Joe and Eli for a rousing conversation about the auditing, e-meters, Battlefield Earth, Cult of Xenu and the money they owe him for services not rendered. But, before the [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/528 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/528#comments Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:31:04 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=528 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/528/feed 0 Brian Dalton, writer, directer, producer and star of the hit webshow Mr. Deity joins us for a fantastic conversation that spans everything from Battered Species Syndrome to cosmic cheesecake and everything in between (whatever that might be.) We talk a lot about the Mr. Deity show and its cast, some other projects they have done as well as a book that Brian is currently working on that is focused on the Mr. Deity universe. We all had a great time talking with Mr. Dalton. If you haven’t already, go check out Mr. Deity and all of Brian and Co.’s other projects over at mrdeity.com! In the news: fail-safe fabricated to protect religion’s right to be douchey, brain damage makes you religious and Iraqi government pulls 50% of its head out of its ass. Brian Dalton, writer, directer, producer and star of the hit webshow Mr. Deity joins us for a fantastic conversation that spans everything from Battered Species Syndrome to cosmic cheesecake and everything in between (whatever that might be.) We [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/526 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/526#comments Wed, 03 Mar 2010 22:36:59 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=526 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/03/526/feed 1 Lamar has assembled a toolkit for objectively analyzing the tenability of prophecy. When confronted with a situation in which a prophecy is being used as evidence promoting the validity of a given religion, these guidelines will help you cut through the woo and examine it under the light of reason. Basically, you’ll be able to run it through the ringer and squeeze out all the BS. Lamar and Eli go over each step so that Joe can understand it. In a totally unrelated statement: the show did run a little long. In the news this week: litigating the fate of your child’s eternal soul, biology teachers gone crazy, right idea–wrong reason and OVER 9000 (organic compounds found in space rock)!!!! Lamar has assembled a toolkit for objectively analyzing the tenability of prophecy. When confronted with a situation in which a prophecy is being used as evidence promoting the validity of a given religion, these guidelines will help you cut [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/02/521 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/02/521#comments Sun, 07 Feb 2010 02:01:33 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=521 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2010/02/521/feed 2 We missed you, too! After a long and mostly unintentional sabbatical, we are back on track with another episode. We had quite a back log of listener mail this week, so we tried to cover as much of it as possible. We also have an awesome guest this week, consequently: the news is short and the show over-all is a little on the long side, but hey! We were MIA for over a month, so long is good, right? The show was worth the wait. For the first time, we have someone who knows little something about Scientology as a guest. Marc Headley (AKA BFG, or BlownForGood) is a former Sea Org member who lived and worked in the Scientology headquarters compound for 15 years. He has recently published a book called Blown For Good: Behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology which details the crazy roller-coaster ride that was his life growing up in, working for and ultimately escaping Scientology. And I don’t use the word “escaping” to be glib; he actually had to escape. Marc shares some of his experiences and opinions with us as we discuss his life and work. If you want to know about the inner workings of Scientology, this book is pretty unique and Marc has a crazy story to tell you. You can pick up Blown for Good in our Amazon store. In the news: dead goats ward off evil, don’t get raped in Bangladesh and Gayle Haggard made Joe use up his allotted “air quotes” for the rest of the year… bitch. Also, if you want to buy us a goat, you can do so here. Ahem… Enjoy the show! We missed you, too! After a long and mostly unintentional sabbatical, we are back on track with another episode. We had quite a back log of listener mail this week, so we tried to cover as much of it as possible. We also have an awesome guest this [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/12/519 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/12/519#comments Thu, 24 Dec 2009 19:40:00 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=519 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/12/519/feed 0 It’s that very special time of year where we gather ’round the hearth with our friends and loved ones and–after chasing a hearty meal of C-rations with spiked egg-nog–we affectionately oil our rifles and adjust the straps on our helmets. Again this year, members of the media and various religious groups have shared with the world their anxieties about the so called WAR ON CHRISTMAS and so, to allay their fears, we’ve taken the time to craft a mature, sensitive and thoughtful response to their concerns. This show is virtually bursting at the seams with love and understanding. So come; warm yourself by the soft red glow of our incredulity as we gear up for our cheer-laden counteroffensive. In this episode, we riff on the following videos: O’Reilly Ambushes Elementary School For ‘War On Christmas’, Atheists Are Jealous Of The Holiday, Gap’s Christmas Cheer Makes a Boycott Backfire, Boost Mobile Ad – Mrs Claus’ Infidelity With a Snowman. In the news: Jim Corbett is left holding the bill, ARMOR PLATED POLAR BEARS face uncertain future, Ray Comfort borrowed some stuff and it’s religious persecution to not allow us to kill our children. It’s that very special time of year where we gather ’round the hearth with our friends and loved ones and–after chasing a hearty meal of C-rations with spiked egg-nog–we affectionately oil our rifles and adjust the straps on our helmets. [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/12/515 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/12/515#comments Mon, 14 Dec 2009 05:38:57 +0000 Joe http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=515 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/12/515/feed 0 Back by popular demand: it’s an all-Charioteers, no-guest show where we can let our hair down and cuss like accountants on tax day. This week Eli has put together a little discussion about the Creation Worldview Ministries: “A Primer on the Scientific Reasons that Evolution is Wrong!” AKA “30 Things You Can Say To Make A Biologist Die Laughing.” After securing the veins on our foreheads with our new EXPLODE-PROOF COI-KNITTING-POSSE BEANIE’S/VEINPROTECTORS® we battle our way through a list that is so mind numbing, it became almost impossible to remain coherent. This week’s news: Suing for the God-given right to be jerks, the Great Homosexual Mandate, lop-sided love from the Australian government and public displays of athiems: lawsuit edition. Back by popular demand: it’s an all-Charioteers, no-guest show where we can let our hair down and cuss like accountants on tax day. This week Eli has put together a little discussion about the Creation Worldview Ministries: “A Primer on the [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/11/512 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/11/512#comments Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:57:56 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=512 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/11/512/feed 0 Our guest this week is James “Jesus Glasses” Corbett, a California high school teacher who gained quite a bit of notoriety recently when he was taken to court for making “anti-christian statements” in the classroom. We had a chance to talk to James and get a better picture of why he was sued and what has happened to him since. He also has done by far the best Hitler impersonation we’ve had on the show yet, bar none. We had some good listener mail this week including an update on Tyler’s situation from the mail last show and the best double-blind dowsing test idea of all time. In the news: the BHA has a change of venue; an army of homeschoolers; trawling for assassins; an example of ID peer review process (hint, it includes lawyers). (NOTE: The show’s sound quality leaves much to be desired this episode.) Our guest this week is James “Jesus Glasses” Corbett, a California high school teacher who gained quite a bit of notoriety recently when he was taken to court for making “anti-christian statements” in the classroom. We had a chance to talk [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/11/507 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/11/507#comments Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:34:26 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=507 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/11/507/feed 1 This week we are joined by Noelle George, Ambassador Director for AAI and founder of the Secular Center. She talks to us about her charity and shares her tactics for helping to get atheists involved in the community to effect positive change. In our listener mail this week we talk about what you guys thought about the Minute Man printing debauchal of aught-nine as well as what it really means to be a “new atheist” and we go over some letters from a couple of chaps in thorny situations. This weeks news: People go kooky in the womb, cheaters are damned to hell for all eternity, Jesus wants YOU! (in prison) and “electrostatic magnetic ion attraction.” This week we are joined by Noelle George, Ambassador Director for AAI and founder of the Secular Center. She talks to us about her charity and shares her tactics for helping to get atheists involved in the community to effect positive change. In [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/10/497 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/10/497#comments Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:53:26 +0000 Joe http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=497 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/10/497/feed 0 We’re joined by Brian Parra, Communications Director for Atheists United and founder of the Ventura Atheists group, to discuss perhaps the biggest question posed to the “atheist movement”: what do we do now? It’s a question that stumps most of us, but Brian has a few ideas you’ll want to hear. It’s a hefty show–weighing in at a smidge over two hours long–but we cover a lot of ground. Also, since both Joe and Lamar had busted computers, Eli is completely responsible for everything that is wrong with this show. Kudos will be distributed evenly, however. Links from user mail: http://www.idsnews.com/news/story.aspx?id=70921 News Links: ‘Missing Link’ Primate Fossil Debunked, “A Bitter Rift Divides Atheists”, USA Today Opinion Column on Blasphemy Laws, A good ol’ fashioned Book Burnin’ We’re joined by Brian Parra, Communications Director for Atheists United and founder of the Ventura Atheists group, to discuss perhaps the biggest question posed to the “atheist movement”: what do we do now? It’s a question that stumps most [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/10/491 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/10/491#comments Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:25:44 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=491 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/10/491/feed 0 This week Brother Richard joins us as we do the post AAI 2009 convention wrap up. We talk about what we liked about the show as well as what we think could use some improvement and we even toss in some nightmare travel stories to keep things interesting. After three days of booths, talks and book signings, we came home with a list of guests that should keep us busy for the better part of the next year. Over all, it was a smashing success for the show! In the news: Kiva Atheists first to reach $1 million, Atheists oppose “faith healing” provisions in health care bills, Michele Bachmann Lobbies for Christian Punk Ministry Bent on Forcing Christ in Public Schools, Sikh policeman wins £10,000 award after turban row, Conservapedia Bible Project to remove “Liberal Bias” from the Bible. This week Brother Richard joins us as we do the post AAI 2009 convention wrap up. We talk about what we liked about the show as well as what we think could use some improvement and we even toss in some nightmare travel stories to keep things [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/485 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/485#comments Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:24:19 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=485 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/485/feed 0 In this episode, we talk to Blair Scott, the Alabama State Director for American Atheists. Blair tells us how the American Atheists choose their legal battles and why that’s important to the overall cause. He also explains what the American Atheists are all about and how you, or your local secular group, can get involved. But before that, we open the show with our first ever “listener mail” segment and announce the opening of the Atheiskeptihumanist Forums. In the news: Creation, a film about Charles Darwin, finds a US distributor; Vatican attempts to dodge the kiddie diddling issue at UN; hunting bald eagles is a religious privilage; straight porn apparently makes you gay. In this episode, we talk to Blair Scott, the Alabama State Director for American Atheists. Blair tells us how the American Atheists choose their legal battles and why that’s important to the overall cause. He also explains what the American [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/481 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/481#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2009 03:33:25 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=481 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/481/feed 0 We get a chance to talk with Jeff Sharlet, author of The Family: The Secret Fundamentalism at the Heart of American Power. We talk about the book, but man, we really ran the gamut of topical conversations this week. Religion, politics, sex, Def Leppard–you know, the basics. Jeff is so knowledgeable about the in’s and out’s of Washington that Joe offers him Lamar’s spot on the show. So far he hasn’t taken us up on the offer, but we remain hopeful. In the news this week: Italy is still the Vatican’s bitch, Kentucky bathes some of its student body, the Arabs and the Jews are still fighting and YET ANOTHER socially conservative politician bites the biggun. Jeff is a fun guest and his book is in stores now in Paperback. You really don’t want to miss the book! You really don’t want to miss this show! We get a chance to talk with Jeff Sharlet, author of The Family: The Secret Fundamentalism at the Heart of American Power. We talk about the book, but man, we really ran the gamut of topical conversations this week. Religion, politics, sex, Def [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/477 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/477#comments Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:12:56 +0000 Joe http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=477 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/09/477/feed 4 It’s our first birthday! We’ve finally reached season 2 and to help us celebrate, we have cephalopod nut, Biologist, educator and outspoken atheist blogger Professor PZ Myers on the show with us to talk about his “vacation,” the book he’s writing, his trip to the Creation Museum, turtle hunting, how he met Richard Dawkins and his enduring friendship with his fishing buddy, Bill Donahue. OK, we made that last part up. We did, however, have a very special supersonic fly-by from the US Airforce Thunderbirds to help us celebrate our one-year anniversary! Ok, fine. There was an airshow going on near by. Whatever. But of course, before that we do the news just like we’ve been doing it FOR ONE WHOLE YEAR. This week in the headlines: Islam is of the Devil, Kentucky gets busted by a Federal Judge, no more holiday shit-storms in Washington, PZ Rescues Joe from a news story that is way over his head, women in Mali show us democracy in action, the Pope says some more dumb stuff and just like last year, we missed the Raelian love fest. Strangely, none of our wives were really all that disappointed. Be sure to go to http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/ and check out PZ’s blog! Do eeeet. Click the link. You’ll love it, I promise. It’s our first birthday! We’ve finally reached season 2 and to help us celebrate, we have cephalopod nut, Biologist, educator and outspoken atheist blogger Professor PZ Myers on the show with us to talk about his “vacation,” the book he’s [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/08/473 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/08/473#comments Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:34:17 +0000 Joe http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=473 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/08/473/feed 3 The Atheist Alliance International’s convention director and Rochester Atheism Examiner Viktor Nagornyy joins us this week to tell us a little bit about their convention in Burbank California beginning on October second. We talk about the cavalcade of speakers that will be in attendance and Viktor even hooks us up with our own SUPER SECRET SPECIAL CHARIOTS OF IRON CODE that will get you$10 off the price of admission when you sign up online! Don’t say we never did nothin’ for ya. But before that, of course we have some news for you: faith healing quackery, the “stuff that sits in front of the zoo” single-single issue voter platform sweeps Oklahoma, the Yale Press needs a magnifying glass to find its balls, more drama over the burqa (wee!), Afghanistan promotes its new diet plan and we are convinced quite quickly that no one sings worse than Rabbis. The Atheist Alliance International’s convention director and Rochester Atheism Examiner Viktor Nagornyy joins us this week to tell us a little bit about their convention in Burbank California beginning on October second. We talk about the [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/08/467 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/08/467#comments Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:42:21 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=467 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/08/467/feed 4 This week we have Sarah Trachtenberg with us to discuss the personal stories of atheists. She talks about the book she is writing entitled “Not My God – Personal Stories of Atheists in America,” based upon interviews that she’s conducting with atheists of various backgrounds from all over the United States. We share a bit about our own personal journeys and discuss a variety of issues of interest to us. Before that, we talk about a recent visit by Neil deGrasse Tyson to a local OMSI Science Pub event here in Portland where he opined about atheists. And of course, the news, in which we discuss another reason to not eat at Denny’s and the problem with people who kill their children through religious negligence. Don’t forget, REMEMBER THE ALAMO! We gab about The Lord’s “Prayers for Moisture” plan, the Chupacabra religious defense and our unbridled desire to own an authentic, plywood Jesus Riding A Dinosaur piece. This week we have Sarah Trachtenberg with us to discuss the personal stories of atheists. She talks about the book she is writing entitled “Not My God – Personal Stories of Atheists in America,” based upon interviews that she’s conducting [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/07/463 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/07/463#comments Tue, 21 Jul 2009 06:45:27 +0000 Joe http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=463 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/07/463/feed 0 In the news this week: people are compartmentalizing reality again, another love-fest planned to show the Mormons how it’s done, the “Religious Right” needs to start putting its politicians in chastity belts, Orthodox Jews riot because they live in a country with child-welfare laws (and parking lots,) more evidence is found of evolution via natural selection (like we needed more,) Jimmy Carter does something pretty awesome, and this man: has big plans for your genitals! This week, we discuss messianic prophecy, which is to say, prophecy concerning the Jewish “messiah.” Lamar leads us through a discussion of what it means when something is prophecy and how the writers of the new testament might have fudged a bit when trying to tie some of these prophecies to Jesus. We also run into some “prophecy” that isn’t prophecy at all! If you are interested in just how full of shit Christian apologetics can get, this is the show for you. And even if you’re not, we still have mad mudkipz. so i herd u liek mudkipz That’s a little something for Lamar, there. Get you an education, son! In the news this week: people are compartmentalizing reality again, another love-fest planned to show the Mormons how it’s done, the “Religious Right” needs to start putting its politicians in chastity belts, Orthodox Jews riot because they [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/07/461 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/07/461#comments Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:20:00 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=461 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/07/461/feed 2 It’s just the boys this week. Yeah, we were thinking that we weren’t getting enough face time with you guys. It’s been a long time since we all just hung out without anybody else around. It’ll be just like old times! In the news this week: Oklahoma is set to declare that hot man-on-man action contributed to the economic decline of America, someone at the Vatican has their head on straight, Joe the Plumber claims that he talks to god, Turkey is launching the awesomest game-show of all time, we have a heartwarming religious story in which absolutely nothing is killed or maimed, the Pope more or less declares that he is badly in need of some critical thinking skills, and Camp Quest is starting a chapter in the UK this summer… hey, maybe they should invite the Pope. The main segment this week is the Bible Science Game Show, with your host: Eli Trebek. Eli fires off some bible or Quran passages that modern “theologians” claim predict a scientific fact and we must guess scientific fact that he is predicting before the vein on Lamar’s head explodes. One thing becomes abundantly clear: whoever edited these books needs to be fired. Badly. Posthumously, even. Join us as we strain our credulity in an attempt to sift nuggets of scientific truth from the bullshit of the ancients. It’s just the boys this week. Yeah, we were thinking that we weren’t getting enough face time with you guys. It’s been a long time since we all just hung out without anybody else around. It’ll be just like old times! In the news this week: [...] http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/06/454 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/06/454#comments Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:56:35 +0000 Lamar http://www.chariotsofiron.com/?p=454 http://www.chariotsofiron.com/2009/06/454/feed 1 Dr. Darrel Ray, author of The God Virus, joins us to talk about his book and his group, Recovering Religionists. Our good friend Mark also joined us in Joe’s absence, and while we definitely missed Joe, it was fun having Mark with us. We begin the show with a rousing discussion about Pastor Wiley Drake and his use of imprecitory prayer against Dr. George Tiller and President Obama. Follow this link for a radio interview with Pastor Drake on YouTube. In the news: Testing the power of prayer is problematic. Hate crime legislation infringes on the rights of conservative Christians to plot the eradication of homosexuals. Ken Ham’s creation museum is a huge success, and the kids love it. Christian prayer crosses the thin blue line. Guppies fall victim to natural selection, and we get to watch. The “namby pamby” liberal theists carry the torch for Christian Dominionism. In the second half of the show, Dr. Ray discusses his book and support group with us. More importantly, he answers our questions and makes a case for his overriding metaphor; religion as a virus. Links: TheGodVirus.net: The official website of Dr. Ray’s book, The God Virus: How Religion Infects Our Lives and Culture. RecoveringReligionists.com: Recovering Religionists is an organization, founded by Dr. Ray, to help people navigate the path out of religion. The God Virus Video: Part One of a multipart series of Dr. Ray discussing his god virus metaphor and other concepts from the book. Dr. Darrel Ray, author of The God Virus, joins us to talk about his book and his group, Recovering Religionists. Our good friend Mark also joined us in Joe’s absence, and while we definitely missed Joe, it was fun having Mark with us. We begin [...]