The Skeptics Society & Skeptic magazine

ROBYNN “SWOOPY” MCCARTHY is the co-host and co-creator of the world’s first pioneering skeptical podcast: Skepticality — the Official Podcast of Skeptic magazine.

When co-host Derek Colanduno suffered a serious brain injury in 2005, Swoopy was forced to take a dominant role in the production of the show. She became the primary writer, researcher, and post-production editor for the program — roles she was proud to continue after Derek returned to health.

Today, Swoopy is a guiding light among the newer generation of skeptical leaders — many of whom credit Skepticality as their introduction to the skeptical movement. Swoopy is very conscious of the responsibilities of a public voice for skepticism. Whether you’re a podcaster, a TV celebrity, or the only skeptic at a dinner party, she says, “It’s important to remember that you may be the only example of skepticism that many people come in contact with.” Known for her own warmhearted and conversational interview style, Swoopy believes that it never hurts for public skeptics “to be a little more general, more inclusive, and more polite.”

Her work focuses on the traditional subject matter of skepticism — science, pseudoscience, and claims of the paranormal — but always with a playful and inventive spin. In 2009, she joined 12 other leading skeptics to contribute to the What Do I Do Next? ebook, a panel discussion PDF on the topic of skeptical activism.

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