Conspirituality

Bonus Sample: The Naturopaths Are At It Again

August 18, 2025

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  • The claim that sunblocks cause 55 deaths from other cancers for every one death saved from skin cancer due to vitamin D deficiency is scientifically unsubstantiated, as regular sunscreen use does not lead to significant vitamin D deficiency. 
  • Dr. Michael Holleck, a researcher on vitamin D, has faced controversy and professional repercussions, including a retracted paper on vitamin D and COVID-19, financial ties to pharmaceutical companies, and past defenses of alleged child abusers. 
  • The podcast criticizes PragerU as a propaganda vehicle that distorts history, citing an example of their animated content downplaying the negative aspects of slavery. 

Segments

Sunblock and Vitamin D Debate
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(00:00:03)
  • Key Takeaway: The assertion that sunblocks cause significantly more cancer deaths than they prevent due to vitamin D deficiency is not supported by scientific evidence, as studies show regular sunscreen use does not lead to deficiency.
  • Summary: The conversation begins by questioning the harm of sunblocks, introducing Dr. Michael Holleck’s controversial claim about sunblock’s link to increased cancer rates via vitamin D deficiency. The hosts then counter this by citing research indicating that sunscreen use does not cause vitamin D deficiency and that incidental sun exposure is usually sufficient.
Controversies Surrounding Dr. Holleck
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(00:00:46)
  • Key Takeaway: Dr. Michael Holleck’s professional credibility has been undermined by a retracted study on COVID-19, financial ties to pharmaceutical companies, and past controversial legal defenses, leading to professional sanctions.
  • Summary: This segment delves into the reasons behind the medical establishment’s issues with Dr. Holleck, including his retracted paper on vitamin D and COVID-19, his financial relationships with companies involved in vitamin D testing, and his controversial defense of individuals accused of child abuse. It also mentions his departure from Boston Medical Center and Boston University for promoting sun exposure and accepting money from a tanning bed company.
Critique of PragerU Content
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(00:02:23)
  • Key Takeaway: PragerU is characterized as a right-wing propaganda organization that distorts historical narratives, exemplified by their animated content that minimizes the severity of slavery.
  • Summary: The podcast announces an upcoming episode on PragerU, describing it as a propaganda vehicle for conservative ideologies. The hosts highlight a specific example from a PragerU children’s show where Christopher Columbus’s role in slavery is presented in a downplayed manner.
Natural Medicine and Chronic Illness
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(00:03:07)
  • Key Takeaway: The podcast introduces an episode of PragerU’s ‘Real Talk’ featuring Dr. Joseph Pizzorno discussing natural medicine and chronic illness, hosted by Marissa Strait, whose recent work includes a favorable interview with Viktor Orban.
  • Summary: The discussion shifts to a specific PragerU show titled ‘Natural Medicine Pioneer Dr. Joseph Pizzorno on How Americans Can Avoid Chronic Illness.’ The host of this show, Marissa Strait, is noted for her recent interview with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, drawing a parallel to Tucker Carlson’s approach.