Preconceived
Preconceived, hosted by Zale Mednick, dives deep into the intricacies of human experience, challenging the assumptions that shape our understanding of the world. In each episode, Zale engages with leading experts, thought leaders, and individuals with unique perspectives to uncover the layers beneath societal norms and expectations. From exploring cultural phenomena to dissecting scientific breakthroughs, Preconceived invites its listeners to question their preconceptions about love, life, technology, health, history, and beyond.With a blend of curiosity and critical thinking, Zale navigates through complex topics, offering his audience a chance to gain new insights and broaden their horizons. Whether it's debunking...
Tue, April 15, 2025
276. Freud - Sex, Psychoanalysis, and the Unconscious
Sigmund Freud was one of the most prominent figures of the 19th and 20th centuries. The founder of psychoanalysis, he's viewed as one of the fathers of modern day psychiatry and psychology. But for all the interest in Freud, there's also much intrigue around him and perhaps even confusion as to what exactly his theories were, how accurate they were, and what kind of importance they play in our modern understanding of the mind. Professor Henk de Berg joins the podcast. Professor de Berg's book on Freud - https://www.amazon.ca/Freuds-Theory-Literary-Cultural-Studies/dp/1571133011 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 08, 2025
Leg Lengthening - Extreme Measures to Become Taller
There are many people who exist on the shorter end of the height spectrum. For some people, it might be not the biggest deal – but for others, it might significantly impact their lives. But what if there were a way to change your height … to go from shorter to taller? Enter the surgery known as leg lengthening, a procedure designed to help people get taller. Actor Rich Rotella joins the podcast to share his recent experience undergoing leg lengthening surgery. Learn more about Rich Rotella https://www.youtube.com/c/RichRotella https://www.instagram.com/richrotellaofficial/ https://www.imdb.com/title/tt22383626/ Learn more about Leg Lengthening Surgery https://www.youtube.com/c/Cyborg4Life This episode is sponsored by the podcast, A Pastor and a Philosopher Walk Into a Bar. https://pastorandphilosopher.buzzsprout.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 01, 2025
275. The pope
The Pope is one of the most revered humans on the planet, garnering devotion from Catholics and Christians all over the world. But what is the Pope supposed to represent? Is the Pope just an ordinary person who was simple been chosen to represent Catholicisim? Or is the Pope rather considered to be a divine figure Himself, a prophet of some sort? Brownen McShea joins the podcast to discuss the role of the Pope, how the role has evolved, and why younger generations may be moving back towards the Church. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 25, 2025
274. The Verdict on Juries (The Juror Part 3)
In this third and final episode of our mini-series on juries, we speak with a criminal lawyer about the ultimate question we've been leading to - Does the jury system make sense? While the idea of having one's peers decide their fate in the justice system sounds idealistic, does it actually work in practice? Should laypeople be called for jury duty to assess cases that are often very complex? Are personal biases too tough to overcome for the average juror? Is the potential group think of jurors a detriment to fair legal outcomes? Essentially, do we have the jury system right? Renowned criminal lawyer Brian Greenspan joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 18, 2025
273. Forensic Fallacies (The Juror Part 2)
In this second of three episodes regarding the jury system, we explore the science of forensics. Are fingerprint and DNA analyses less accurate and more susceptible to bias than we might be led to believe? Are there situations in which jurors are overly swayed by forensic evidence that may be less ironclad than we think? International forensics expert Dr. Itiel Dror joins the podcast. Dr. Dror's Website https://www.cci-hq.com/dr.-itiel-dror.html Learn more about this topic at https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.0c00704 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 11, 2025
272. Are Juries too Biased? (The Juror Part 1)
In this first of three episodes on the jury system, we examine how biased jurors tend to be. What unexpected variables factor into jury decision making? Are jurors able to check their biases at the door, or do they tend to make their minds up before all the evidence has even be presented? Are there certain cases to which juries are particularly partial in delivering a verdict of guilty or not guilty? Lee Curley, an expert in jury biases, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 04, 2025
The War Correspondent
Most people veer away from dangerous places. Yet there are some people in this world, who not only don’t avoid such places, but rather seek them out; journalists who report on some of the most dangerous and devastating conflicts in the world. So why would somebody risk their life, in some cases, to report on deadly conflicts far away? Why would somebody become a war correspondent, and what does the job entail? War correspondent Sam Mednick joins the podcast. Follow Sam on twitter at @sammednick Check out the podcast - Uncertain Things - at https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/uncertain-things/id1529979654 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 25, 2025
271. Tariffs and Trade Wars
With Trump's proposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, may are concerned that some form of a trade war might emerge in the coming months. Particularly in Canada, where 75% of its exports go to the United States, uncertainty and fear are developing amongst Canadians. So if these tariffs do end becoming imposed, how will it affect each of the Canadian and American economies? By virtue of its larger sized economy, is this a trade war the US would handily win? Or are widespread tariffs a recipe for economic disaster for both countries? Eric Kirzner, a Finance Professor at the University of Toronto, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 18, 2025
270. Health Scare
Nobody expects to get sick. Especially for someone in their 20s or 30s, being diagnosed with a significant medical condition is not something that's truly on one's radar. So how does one process a scary medical diagnosis? In whom does one confide? And how, if at all, just it change one's perspective on life? Adam Noyek was diagnosed with a serious spinal tumor when he was in his mid thirties. He joins the podcast to share his story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 11, 2025
269. Selective Abortion - A Down Syndrome Dilemma
With further scientific breakthroughs and more accurate and widespread genetic testing increasingly available, it is becoming much more common to detect genetic abnormalities in a fetus during the early stages of pregnancy. As a consequence, conditions such as Down Syndrome are diagnosed much more frequently prenatally than in past decades. In parts of the world where abortion is still legal, more people are likely choosing to abort such fetuses with genetic abnormalities. So what does this mean? Are the rates of Down Syndrome already decreasing dramatically? Will the rates continue to plummet with more genetic screening and subsequent abortions? And if this is the case, how do people in the Down Syndrome community feel about this? Even if you are pro-choice, it’s a bit of a harrowing thought to think that a certain demographic of the population could decline so dramatically. Dr. Amy Redhead joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 04, 2025
Changing Career Paths
When we contemplate the word ‘career’, it’s natural to think of one singular profession that someone pursues via education and then remains in for a long period of time. When you think of a doctor or an accountant, you usually think of them practicing that profession for decades, the majority if not all of their work years. In the ‘corporate world’, job changes are perhaps more common, but it sometimes seems like people are becoming more inclined to pivot in their professional lives. Professor Serge da Motta Veiga joins the podcast to share insights and recent trends in the workplace. Learn more about Serge Da Motta Veiga - https://www.edhec.edu/en/research-and-faculty/faculty/professors-and-researchers/serge-da-motta-veiga Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 28, 2025
268. How to Change Your Behaviour
It’s one thing to acknowledge certain truths about ourselves and the world, and to have certain revelations ; but it’s another thing to actually make change based on those realizations. Why can we acknowledge and learn about our preconceptions, but still have such a hard time extrapolating those lessons to the way we live our lives? How do we break old patterns of behaving and make positive change to match our new ways of thinking? How do concepts such as status quo bias and habit formation prevent us from achieving our goals, and how can we break patterns that we deem detrimental? Yasmine Kalkstein, a Professor of Psychology at West Point, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 21, 2025
267. The LA Wildfires
As the wildfires in Los Angeles continue their spread, many are wondering how this possibly could have happened. We've been hearing about increasing rates of wildfires over the last several years , but rarely do they affect urban areas in the scope they have over the past several weeks. So what exactly is a wildfire, and why has this one been spreading so aggressively? How does a wildfire ultimately become contained, and is containment in sight? And perhaps equally important, is this a harbinger of things to come? Are wildfires like this one going to occur more frequently as time goes on, and what can we do to prevent them? Tim Brown joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 14, 2025
266. Life on the Moon
For millennia, there has been a deep fascination with outer space. But ever since Apollo 11 actually landed on the moon in 1969 and Neil Armstrong took his first steps on the moon, the interest in space and the moon has gone into unimaginable new gears. But for all the intrigue that humankind has with outer space and the moon, what is actually realistic? What the current ongoing operations at the moon? What are the most promising aspects of lunar research? And is the idea of ‘life on the moon’ actually a realistic thought? Derek Webber, author of 'Lunar Commerce', joins the podcast. Lunar Commerce: A Primer by Derek Webber - https://www.amazon.ca/Lunar-Commerce-Primer-Derek-Webber/dp/3031534204 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 07, 2025
265. Laziness
What does it mean to be lazy? Is the term 'laziness' just a negative slant on 'relaxation', or does laziness accurately reflect a lack of motivation? And is laziness a 'bad' thing, or could it actually be viewed as a positive attribute? Todd McIlroy, author of 'The Science of Laziness: Achieving More by Doing less', joins the podcast. Check out Todd's book 'The Science of Laziness' at https://www.amazon.ca/Science-Laziness-Achieving-More-Doing/dp/B0D6GFZZNT Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 17, 2024
264. Gen Z Explained
As a millennial myself, I know many in my generation struggle to fully understand the ethos, so to speak, of Gen Z. In many ways, it seems they’ve taken work-life balance to a whole new level. Yet while lifestyle is prioritized, it can seem as if financial expectations are still lofty. Many domains of society have become more liberal, and the idea of ‘woke-ism’, which probably has a negative connotation to many, is perhaps embraced by Gen Z. So what actually guides Gen Z? What are the philosophies, ethics, and beliefs that shape their lives? Stanford's Roberta Katz, co-author of 'Gen Z, Explained: The Art of Living in a Digital Age', joins the podcast. Check out ' Gen Z Explained ' at https://www.amazon.ca/Gen-Explained-Art-Living-Digital/dp/022679153X Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 10, 2024
263. Stand-Up Comedy
They say people are more afraid of public speaking than they are of death. If that's the case, people must be terrified at the notion of performing stand-up comedy, which entails not only public speaking, but relying on people's laughs as validation that you're doing a good job! So what makes a good stand-up comedian? What goes into crafting an effective sketch? And while the well-trained comedian makes it all look 'off-the-cuff', how much of the sketch is prepared down to the exact word? Comedian Jacob Samuel joins the podcast. Learn more about Jacob at www.jacobsamuelcomedy.com Watch Jacob's comedy special, 'Horse Power', at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BD4l6ODKwCg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 03, 2024
Whole Body MRI - The Dangers of Over Testing
What if you could undergo a scan of of your whole body once a year to screen for any tumors, aneurysms, or any other medical abnormalities? On the surface, it sounds like a great idea, and indeed many companies are offering the opportunity to undergo whole body MRIs to catch medical findings before they become medical 'problems'. But is whole body MRI really all it's cracked up to be? Or can it also lead you down a rabbit hole chasing a diagnosis when nothing of consequence is to be found? Radiologist Dr. Matthew Davenport joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 26, 2024
262. Is there an Afterlife?
Many people who've had near death experiences speak of similar sensations - a white light, a sense of calm, and a feeling of warmth Many come back from such experiences saying they've had a glimpse into the afterlife. So what exactly is occurring in during these near death experiences? Are people truly getting a glimpse into what happens after we die? Or are the experiences that people report a reflection of a biological process that's occurring? Or are these not mutually exclusive? Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova joins the podcast. Learn more about Near Death Experiences at University of Virginia's Division of Perceptual Studies - https://med.virginia.edu/perceptual-studies/our-research/near-death-experiences-ndes/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 19, 2024
261. Alternative 'Medicine'
Does Alternative Medicine actually work? If it does work, why is it still branded as 'alternative'? And if it doesn't work, why do people invest so much time and money into it? Alternative medicine encompasses many branches, including homeopathy, chiropractic medicine, and acupuncture. So what works, and what doesn't work? What does the evidence show? Dr. Edzard Ernst joins the podcast. Check out Dr. Ernst's latest book, 'Bizarre Medical Ideas ... And the Strange Men Who Invented Them' at https://www.amazon.ca/Bizarre-Medical-Ideas-Strange-Invented-ebook/dp/B0CY1FZK9T Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 07, 2024
260. 'My Child Has Cancer'
It’s hard to think of more devastating news for a parent than hearing that their child is dealing with a serious illness. Cancer is one of those illnesses. So what do you do as a parent when your child is diagnosed with cancer? What do you tell your child? How honest are you with them? And when the cancer has hopefully gone into remission, how does one continue to approach life? Sam Taylor, host of The Deep C Podcast, joins Preconceived. The Deep C Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-deep-c/id1728343851 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 29, 2024
The Benefits of Getting A Bit Drunk
We all know about the potential abuse and addiction associated with alcohol and other drugs. Yet despite this, alcohol has persisted since the dawn of human societies. Does its persistence suggest that alcohol may actually be an important factor in the history of our civilization? In Edward Slingerland's book, 'Drunk', he explores the social benefits of alcohol and intoxication. He joins the podcast to share his insights. Check out 'Drunk' at https://www.amazon.ca/Drunk-Sipped-Danced-Stumbled-Civilization/dp/0316453382 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 22, 2024
259. How To Debate
In a world that increasingly feels like it’s falling into disarray, heated debates are taking place about a multitude of topics – war in the Middle East, the immigration crisis in the US, abortion rights, and much more. Personally, I’ve found myself listening to a disproportionate amount of debates on the above topics on some of my favorite podcasts. But I’ve come to wonder – what makes a good debater? What are the general tenets and principles of a debate that a participant needs to know before engaging in one? And perhaps more practical, are the rules of formal debate applicable to the way we argue things off of a debate stage? Or should they be considered totally different forums of discussion? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 15, 2024
258. Hitler and Trump - A Comparison
For many years now, the media and general population has loved making comparisons between Donald Trump and Adolf Hitler. On the one hand, the comparison seems odd – Hitler was a mass murderer and the architect of the most devastating genocide the world has ever seen; Donald Trump has committed no genocide. On the other hand, both are extreme political figures who each galvanized large segments of the population to rise to power. For those who deplore Trump, it is perhaps a political strategy to compare him to Hitler, to scare people into thinking that if he is allowed back into power, he will pose the same risks to humanity as Hitler did. Yet beyond such conjecture, perhaps there are similarities between these two figures that can teach us important lessons, and help guide us moving forward, as America gears up for its next presidential election. Professor Henk de Berg joins the podcast. Check out Henk's book, 'Trump and Hitler: A Comparative Study in Lying', at ' https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-51833-1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 08, 2024
257. Regret and Decision Making
‘Regret’ is a word that many in society hesitate to use. At its core, it implies we made the wrong decision, and that if we could go back in time, perhaps we would have acted differently. While there’s no doubt we all make poor decisions, we typically don’t frame our bad decisions as ‘regrets’. Often we will try to cast our regrets as ‘learning moments’ and might even say things like ‘I don’t regret that action because of what it taught me’. But the reality is, regret, or whatever you want to call it, does exist. There are decisions most of us would probably take back. So what does the research show on regret, and what it can teach us on how to make better decisions? Todd McElroy, an expert in regret research, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 01, 2024
256. Could our 'Peaceful World' Devolve Back into War?
While wars are still waged today and atrocities still occur, many argue that this is actually the most peaceful period of humankind. Is this true? And if so, why is this the case? Is society’s inherent desire for peace higher than it was in ancient and medieval times? Is the value of peace and protecting human life given a greater premium than it was in the past? Are our values fundamentally different than they were in prior centuries and millennia? Were power, dominance and legacy valued more greatly in ancient and medieval times? Or rather, is it not so much that our values have shifted, but more so that the framework of modern society has more checks and balances to keep power and wars in check? Professor Keith Bradley joins the podcast. Keith Bradley's latest book on Hadrian - https://www.amazon.ca/Marguerite-Yourcenars-Hadrian-Writing-Emperor/dp/1487548818 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 24, 2024
255. Too Much Therapy?
It seems like more and more people are seeing therapists on a regular basis. And while that is not a bad thing, it does beg the question, ‘what is the role of therapy for someone who does not have psychiatric illness, but is just experiencing the ups and downs of the human condition?’ Who should people be seeking therapy from, and what should the goals of therapy be? Psychologist Huw Green joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 17, 2024
254. 'Purity Culture' - No Sex Before Marriage
We all grow up in different communities with varying value systems, traditional, and social norms. But the ‘rules’ of some communities are more rigid in some regards, and more isolated from other branches of mainstream culture. One such example is Purity Culture, an ethos in some communities that staunchly promotes abstinence, and preaches by virtue by refraining from sexual activity. So what is it like to live in such a community? What exactly is purity culture, and do the people in these communities actually believe in and commit to abstinence, or is it more talk than true commitment? How does abstinence end up shaping people’s conceptions of marriages and sex in their future? Portia Brown joins the podcast. Portia Brown Coaching - https://www.portiabrowncoaching.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 10, 2024
253. Optimism
We all know that optimism is a good thing. And in life, there is indeed much to be optimistic about. But the world can also be a cruel place, and the realities of life can sometimes be harsh. So what exactly does it mean to be optimistic? Is there such thing as a healthy dose of pessimism? Is it better to veer on the realist side of life and be pleasantly surprised when things go your way, or is having an optimistic outlook the key to a happier and more meaningful life? Bill Burke, founder of The Optimism Institute, joins the podcast. The Optimism Institute - https://www.theoptimisminstitute.com Blue Sky Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/blue-sky/id1670686589 This episode is sponsored by Cassette Cycling - Check out their amazing cycling shirts at https://cassette-cycling.com/ . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 03, 2024
Memory - How Reliable Is It?
How accurate is the human memory? Dr. Elizabeth Loftus is a world-renowned psychologist who has devoted her career to studying the malleability of human memory.She joins the podcast to share what her research has shown regarding the accuracy of human memories, and explains how completely fabricated memories can actually be incepted into people's minds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 27, 2024
252. 'God is Good'
From a young age, many of us are brought up believing that God is the embodiment of perfection - that God is good, merciful, and reflective of the values we hold so dear in our daily lives. But on closer look, the Judaeo-Christian God that is portrayed in the Old and New Testaments can often be quite violent, vengeful, and even egotistical, demanding complete and utter loyalty from his followers. So how do we reconcile the ideals we hope God would have, with the actual portrayal of God in the Bible? Dr. Pete Enns joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 20, 2024
251. Apologies and Forgiveness
We all make mistakes – sometimes they are innocent mistakes, and sometimes they are true lapses in character judgement that we only later come to regret. And with any good mistake comes a good apology, and hopefully a genuine forgiveness on the other side. But what if the apology is disingenuous? Or what if the other side refuses to forgive? Why do we crave apologies from others, and why is it so hard to move past a situation if we are unable to obtain one’s forgiveness? Susan Shapiro, author of 'The Forgiveness Tour', joins the podcast. Learn more about Susan Shapiro and her book 'The Forgiveness Tour' at https://susanshapiro.net/forgiveness.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 08, 2024
250. Reflections
In this 250th episode of Preconceived, Zale revisits segments from some of his favourite episodes whose messages truly resonated with him. Is age just a number? How can we make decisions amidst uncertainty? Is the grass always greener on the other side? And how do we know if we are a good person? These are some of the questions explored in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 01, 2024
249. The Olympics - 'Heroes in Our Midst'
There are few cultural events that grasp the world’s attention as much of The Olympics. Regardless of what might be going on politically in the world, The Olympics is largely seen as a globally unifying moment, once every four summers, and once every four winters. But what is it that captivates so many people to turn on their televisions and tune into Olympics events? Is it the love of competition? The quest for glory? Robin Mednick, co-editor of the book 'Heroes in Our Midst', joins the podcast to shed insight on the stories behind the Olympians. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 23, 2024
248. Is Islam Violent?
When a Muslim father was asked by his son if Islam is inherently a violent religion, he was taken aback. Where did his son get these ideas from, and how many other people shared this concern? In his book 'Being Muslim Today', Dr. Saqib Iqbal Qureshi explores the history of Islam and seeks to understand some of the preconceptions regarding Islamic doctrine and how, if at all, it relates to Muslim perception today. Dr. Qureshi joins the podcast to discuss Islam and some of the misconceptions surrounding it. Being Muslim Today - https://www.amazon.ca/Being-Muslim-Today-Reclaiming-Islamophobia/dp/1538189321 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 16, 2024
247. 'Wisecracks' - Can a Joke Go Too Far?
Pranks, Joshing, Deception, Practical Jokes ... Humor takes shape in many forms. But can a joke go too far? Should a joke's funniness be measured by the reactions it elicits, the intentions of the joke, or none of the above? Cornell Professor David Shoemaker is a philosopher and author. He joins the podcast to discuss his latest book, 'Wisecracks: Humor and Morality in Everyday Life'. Wisecracks - https://www.amazon.ca/Wisecracks-Humor-Morality-Everyday-Life/dp/0226832988 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 09, 2024
Fall of the Aztecs
The Aztec Empire famously fell following the arrival of the Europeans in the 16th century. Much of what we know about the Aztecs – including their rise, the nature of the empire, and its eventual fall, comes strictly from European accounts. But what did the Aztecs themselves think? The narrative has almost solely been shaped by the European perspective – but how did the Aztecs view the Europeans who eventually conquered them? Professor Camilla Townsend joins the podcast. Camilla's Book - Fifth Sun https://www.amazon.ca/Fifth-Sun-New-History-Aztecs/dp/0190673060/ref=asc_df_0190673060/?tag=googleshopc0c-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=411041496657&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2406240501790207548&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9000956&hvtargid=pla-715823711027&psc=1 This episode is sponsored by Discover More Podcast - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/discover-more-benoit-kim-w1KlycAfQGB/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 02, 2024
246. The Only Child
There is a certain stigma about only children - the idea that they may become more self-centred, and the concern that they will be lonelier in life without siblings. Such concerns have even prompted some to suggest that it is 'selfish' for parents to only have one child. But what does the evidence show about the life experiences of children who do not have siblings? Psychology Professor Tony Falbo, from the University of Texas at Austin, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 25, 2024
245. Is a Bachelor of Arts Degree Useful?
The Preconceived or ‘status quo’ path in life typically includes a variety of steps; one major milestone is graduating from college. It’s something that we are ‘supposed to do’, a relatively expensive all-consuming four-year program that most of experience after high school. But how important is college? Do the academic benefits of college merit the time and cost of the endeavour? While many cite the importance of ‘the college experience’ as part of our maturation, is this just an idea we’ve been overly conditioned to accept that then dictates a significant chunk of our life? Derek Newton joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 18, 2024
244. Travel - The Joys and Complexities
For many people, travel provides some of the most profound experiences of their lives. Whether it’s a short excursion or a year living abroad, disengaging from your typical routine and transplanting yourself into the unknown is bound to lead to personal growth and self-discovery. But for all the good that can come from it, travelling can also be confusing. Is travelling always supposed to be joyful? Is there a trap that some fall into of travelling simply because that’s the ‘cool’ thing to do and permits you conceive of yourself as ‘worldly’? And Is there a risk that one can become obsessed with a certain impermanence that travel breeds, an escapism of sorts? Jesse O'Reilly-Conlin, author of 'Go: A Memoir of Movement', joins the podcast. Jesse O'Reilly-Conlin - https://jesseoreillyconlin.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 11, 2024
243. Stockbrokers- Do You Need Them?
When it comes to our finances, it’s natural for many to follow the traditional approach to investing by using a stock broker. Over the past couple of decades, however, there has been a growing trend to go against the grain and not use a stockbroker. You may have seen the commercials online by companies urging you to bypass stock brokers by investing in their online platforms; they show curves of net worth over the course of decades, suggesting that when one takes compound interest into account, all the fees one pays to a stock broker can add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars in the long run? So what does the math show? Is using a stock broker actually detrimental to one’s overall earnings in the stock market? Or despite the higher fees, does the stock broker bring an added intangible value? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 28, 2024
242. Zionism - Two Perspectives
Since the October 7th massacre and the ensuing war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, much world attention has been given to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. In this episode, we take a look back at the origins of this conflict, the concept of Zionism, and the events leading up to the 1948 war, known as the War of Independence in Israel, and referred to as The Nakba ('the catastrophe) by Palestinians. This episode explores two perspectives - a Jewish perspective shared by Harvard Professor Derek Penslar, and a Palestinian perspective shared by Brown Professor Beshara Doumani. Professor Derek Penslar - https://history.fas.harvard.edu/people/derek-penslar Professor Beshara Doumani - https://vivo.brown.edu/display/bdoumani Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 21, 2024
Is it Normal to Have Pets?
The relationship between humans and non-human animals is a fascinating one. In particular, the pet-owner relationship begs many questions. The preconception is that it is totally normal that we cohabitate with other animals in our homes. People love their pets, and for the most part, we assume that our pets love us. But how normal really is the concept of having pets? And even if pets do add much value to humans' lives, is it really moral to keep pets, especially in the ways that we do? Professor Hal Herzog, expert in human-animal relationships, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 14, 2024
241. Inheritance
There is often an expectation that when parents die, their children will be left with some form of inheritance. But what does the research show about what actually happens to inheritance? What do the recipients tend to do with their inheritance? Is the money put to good use, is it spent right way, is it saved, or is it sometimes totally squandered? Jay Zagorsky, from the Questrom School of Business, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 07, 2024
240. 'Make It Stick' - The Science of Successful Learning
When we go through elementary school, high school, and college, we are tasked with learning and memorizing mounds of information. But how much emphasis is actually put on how we learn? What are the most effect memory strategies that can help us excel on exams? Are the strategies for short-term memory the same as the techniques for long-term retention? And how does an understanding of one's own 'learning style' factor into the way one studies, if at all? Roddy Roediger, co-author of 'Make It Stick', joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 30, 2024
239. Thirty Years to Live
What if you knew from the beginning of your life that you would die at age 30? How would you choose to live those 30 years? Needless to say, your path would completely deviate from many elements of the preconceived status quo of a typical life. And what if, just as you were reaching the end of your predicted life expectancy, you found out that you would not indeed die at age 30, but that you would have a normal life expectancy? Would you be happy for the extra years, or would you be rattled by such an upheaval in your expectations? Jeremie Saunders was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at age one and was given a life expectancy of age thirty. But just after turning thirty, a life-saving medication became available which changed the trajectory of his life, extending his life expectancy by fifty odd years. He joins the podcast to share his story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 23, 2024
238. Iran - Ideology, Nuclear Capability, and Threat to the West
On April 13th, Iran launched over 300 missiles and drones over Israel. While Israel’s missile defensive system was able to mitigate most damage, the attack itself was unprecedented and a frightening development to the international community. When most of us think of modern-day Iran, we think of an oppressive authoritarian regime that suppresses the rights of its people and also deeply hates the West. But how did this situation come to be? Why does Iran hate the West so fiercely? What does Iran want? And how seriously must the Iran problem be taken? There have been concerns over their nuclear weapons program for many years, and now that Iran has launched an attack, how is the world, and Israel, supposed to respond? Mark Dubowitz, a leading world expert on the Iranian threat, joins the podcast. Mark Dubowitz - https://www.fdd.org/team/mark-dubowitz/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 16, 2024
237. 'Sickboy' - How to not be Awkward around Sick People!
We all know people who have been sick, whether with acute illness or chronic disease. But despite how common it is for people we know to be sick, we don’t always know how to deal with it in the best way. How do we support someone who is going through health troubles? How do you treat them normally, so to speak, while also acknowledging that what they’re going through is in many ways not normal and requires extra love and support? How do you navigate the situation without being awkward? Jeremie Saunders, co-host of the acclaimed podcast Sickboy, joins the podcast. Check out Sickboy Podcast at https://www.sickboypodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 09, 2024
236. 'The Work Life Balance Myth'
‘Work-life-balance’ is a common phrase, a buzzword even, that refers to the way we find balance in our professional lives and personal lives. The goal for many is to achieve an equilibrium, where we devote sufficient time to our work, family, and personal lives, without letting one domain dominate the other. But is work-life balance truly attainable in the ways most of us think of it? Should we be focused on balancing all aspects of our lives at once, or is it natural that the balance be more heavily weighted toward certain domains at different time points of our lives? Author David Mcneff joins the podcast. David Mcneff's book - The Work-Life Balance Myth: Rethinking Your Optimal Balance for Success Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 04, 2024
235. Solar Eclipse - What You Need to Know!
As excitement grows regarding the upcoming solar eclipse, so do feelings of anxiety and fear amongst many people. What exactly is a solar eclipse, and how dangerous is it for your eyes? Ophthalmologist Dr. Tina Felfeli joins the podcast to prepare you for this once-in-a-lifetime event . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 02, 2024
My Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
In this episode, Zale opens up about his own experience with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. What is an obsession, and what is a compulsion? How does OCD extend far beyond the preconception of a pure focus on cleanliness? Zale gives a window into what it is like living with anxiety and sheds some light on psychiatric illness in general. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 26, 2024
234. Why Empires Fall - Rome, America, and the Future of the West
The Roman Empire is thought of as one of the most powerful empires in human history. But as we all know, the Roman Empire did indeed fall after several centuries of domineering economic and political power. Many historians have tried to understand why exactly the Roman Empire fell, and many theories have emerged. In the present day, the United States, and ‘The West’ at large, has been seen for several centuries as the world’s superpower, similar in many ways to the power held by the Roman Empire. But with the current geopolitical landscape, it seems as if America may succumb to the same fate as Rome. So what is the phenomenon that is occurring here? Why do empires fall? And what will become of the West in the decades to come? Peter Heather joins the podcast. Peter Heather's book 'Why Empires Fall' - https://www.amazon.ca/Why-Empires-Fall-America-Future/dp/030027372X Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 19, 2024
233. Cannibalism
The idea of one human eating another human is almost unfathomable to most of us. Even when stories have surface of life and death situations when people were arguably forced to resort to cannibalism in order to survive, the act still raised many eyebrows in society at large. But how abnormal really is the practice of cannibalism? From an evolutionary and survival perspective, how can the practice of cannibalism be better understood? How common has human cannibalism been over the course of civilization, and what have been the most common circumstances in which it developed? Bill Schutt, author of 'Cannibalism: A perfectly natural history', joins the podcast Bill Schutt's book: https://www.amazon.ca/Cannibalism-Perfectly-Natural-Bill-Schutt/dp/1616204621 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 12, 2024
232. How is Artificial Intelligence Transforming Education?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is on the rise, influencing many facets of our lives. With the emergence of ChatGPT and other AI-related tools, the landscape of education is already changing. From the student's perspective, will certain skills such as writing and critical thinking fall by the wayside if AI can do the work for them? Have rates of cheating increased? And on a more optimistic note, how are teachers and professors using AI to create better educational environments for their students? Priten Shah joins the podcast. Priten Shah's Website https://pritenshah.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 08, 2024
Predicting The Oscars
The Oscars is considered the most prestigious awards ceremony in the entertainment industry. There is a certain magic about the Academy Awards, where some of the greatest films and performances of all time have been recognized. Ben Zauzmer is the author of Oscarmetrics, a book that shares an in depth look at the predictive analytics of The Oscars over its 93 year history. What makes a movie most likely to win Best Picture? Which actors and actresses are most likely to walk away winners? And do the Oscars deserve to be as celebrated as they are? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 05, 2024
231. The SATs
The SATs have been a hallmark of the college admissions process for decades in the United States. But this popular standardized test has come under scrutiny the past several years, with many colleges eliminating the SATs as part of their admissions criteria. So why is the tide changing for the SATs? Is GPA a better predictor of college performance, or are both metrics fraught with bias and error? Eddie Comeaux joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 27, 2024
230. Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are listed in the DSM – the bible of psychiatric diagnoses – as a distinct set of psychiatric disorders. Such disorders include narcissistic personality disorder, histrionic personality disorder, dependent personality disorder, paranoid personality disorder, as well as several others. It can be confusing, however; at what point does someone’s narcissism, for example, extend so far that it qualifies as a psychiatric diagnosis? At what point does an unfavorable personality trait actually become a disorder, and in the real world, does the distinction actually matter? Psychiatrist Dr. Joel Paris joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 20, 2024
229. North Korea
There is perhaps no country in the world more perplexing and bewildering than North Korea. Considered by many as a silo shut off from the rest of the world, much of North Korea is shrouded in mystery. Unfortunately, much of that mystery involves a dictatorial regime and severe oppression of its peoples. But what exactly does it look like inside of North Korea? What are our preconceptions about North Korea, and equally important, what are the preconceptions that North Koreans might hold about the rest of the world? Brandon Gauthier joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 13, 2024
228. Pedophilia
Pedophilia, understandably, is a word that conjures up negative thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Acting on pedophilic thoughts is a horrible crime, and the ramifications are fittingly severe. But what exactly is pedophilia? Is it a distinct entity, a medical condition perhaps? Or can it be seen as an abnormal part of the spectrum of human desire? What is it like to live as a pedophile, and what kind of emotional angst do pedophiles experience? Are pedophilic feelings more common that we might think they are, and how can one live with thoughts of pedophilia without acting on them. Dr. Skye Stephens joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 08, 2024
Life Extension (Part 2) - Do you really want to live forever?
The idea of 'life extension' has become trendy over the past several decades. If we take the right supplements and certain medications, is it possible to live well beyond a hundred years old and to slow the aging process itself? Dr. Jay Olshansky is one of the world leaders in the field. He joins the podcast to shed some misconceptions. http://sjayolshansky.com/sjo/Background.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, February 05, 2024
Life Extension (Part 1) - What does the science show?
The idea of 'life extension' has become trendy over the past several decades. If we take the right supplements and certain medications, is it possible to live well beyond a hundred years old and to slow the aging process itself? Dr. Jay Olshansky is one of the world leaders in the field. He joins the podcast to shed some misconceptions. http://sjayolshansky.com/sjo/Background.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 30, 2024
227. The Retirement Myth
In the typical preconceived framework in which we tend to view our lives, there are many steps … growing up, getting an education, finding a job, getting married, having kids, being grandparents, and ultimately - retiring. But in recent years, many have come to question what retirement really means and what it entails. So what exactly is retirement, and does society’s concept of retirement ultimately limit us in our endeavors when we get older? And if we do conform to the more traditional view of retirement, should we be seriously rethinking the age of retirmenet given the increased life expectancy of humans? George Jerijian joins the podcast. https://georgejerjian.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 23, 2024
226. Free from Desire - No Sex, No Romance
Sex and romance are core aspects of most people's lives; yet for some, the role they play is different. Aline Laurent-Mayard has never been attracted to anyone—not sexually, not romantically. On her award-winning podcast Free From Desire, they tell us how difficult it was to realize and accept their asexuality and their aromantism in a society that only talks about exactly that: love and sex. Aline joins the podcast to explain what it means to be asexual and aromantic. Check out Aline's podcast at https://podcastingtoday.co.uk/new-memoir-style-podcast-follows-journey-of-aline-laurent-mayard/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 16, 2024
225. Jihad
When people hear the word 'Jihad', they likely think of extremism, terrorism, and utter disdain for the West. But what is exactly is Jihad? What are its true origins? Is Jihadist philosophy truly violent in its original sense? Or is it a concept that has been politicized and weaponized by some, taken to the extreme as a justification for terrorism and hate? What is the role of Jihad, if any, in typical Islamic doctrine, and how can peaceful Islam be reconciled with these more extreme ideologies? Glenn E. Robinson, author of 'Global Jihad: A Brief History', joins the podcast. https://glennerobinson.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 10, 2024
Love and Anxiety - Relationship OCD
There are so many adages in regards to love and relationships. Many hinge on the notion that we must be absolutely certain in our choice of a romantic partner and that there should be no doubts when we ultimately decide on 'the one'. But is that a realistic framework for love? And how can the search for the Hollywood vision of love, in some cases lead to severe cases of relationship anxiety, otherwise known as relationship OCD (ROCD)? Kiyomi LaFleur, founder of Awaken into Love, joins the podcast. www.awakenintolove.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 03, 2024
224. Climate Change - 'Science for People Who Give a Shit'
For most of us, it’s a known that global warming and climate change are real and problematic Yet at the same time, despite society’s apparent concern at large, the issue has persisted for decades and in many regards, only gotten worse. So how bad is climate change, and how concerned do we need to be? And for as much as we try to be optimistic, are we perhaps past the point of no return? If that’s the case, why even care about climate change at all? Why not just accept that the damage is done, and that the best we can do is mitigate it as opposed to saving our planet? Quinn Emmett joins the podcast. Quinn Emmett Founder of Important, Not important: Science for people who give a shit Sign up for his newsletter at Importantnotimportant.com/subscribe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 19, 2023
223. Taylor Swift - What's all the Hype?
Taylor Swift is arguably the most famous person in the world – a pop star the likes of whom many of us haven’t seen in our lifetimes. Especially over the past year with the release of her latest album Midnights and her record-breaking The Eras Tour, it’s not crazy to wonder if what we are witnessing right now is somewhat analogous to the Beatlemania of the 1960s. So what exactly is the phenomenon of Taylor Swift? Why has she risen to the heights that she has and captivated so many people like few other artists have before her? Is this truly a special pop culture moment, or is it perhaps being overstated? Music industry veteran Ralph Jaccodine joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 12, 2023
222. Salem Witch Trials
Sometimes our convictions can be so indoctrinated that it’s tough to separate them from reality and the facts in front of us. One such example is the Salem Witch Trials from 1692-1693, where an episode of mass hysteria in Salem, Massachusetts led to over 200 people being put on trial for witchcraft, culminating in nineteen executions. So how did this happen? How was it possible that people in one of the most educated societies of the time, not far from Harvard, became so convinced that witchcraft was real, to the point that they killed 14 women and 5 men for being witches? World-renowned Salem expert, Marilynne Roach, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 05, 2023
221. Female Sexual Pleasure
At its core, sex is supposed to be pleasurable. It’s typically considered much easier for a male to reach orgasm than a female, and although orgasm is not the only way to experience pleasure from sex, it’s certainly a more defined and easily measurable endpoint. So with that said, how frequently and to what degree do women experience sexual pleasure when compared to men? Does it often take more time for women to understand their own bodies and what makes them sexually aroused? And how could men learn to be better sexual partners to women, by having a greater understanding of the way they experience sex? Dr. Debby Herbenick, a sexual and reproductive health professor, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 28, 2023
220. Botox and Fillers
With the advent of botox and fillers, cosmetic procedures have become much quicker to administer and more accessible to the masses. In many ways, one could argue this is a good thing – it offers a service to people who want it in a more available way than ever before. But in other ways, has the obsession with a certain definition of beauty and staying younger only further stigmatized getting older and aging naturally? Has the world of cosmetic surgery perhaps gone too far and fostered a certain type of ‘addiction’ to looking younger? And how exactly do botox and fillers work? Plastic surgeon Dr. Harmeet Gill joins the podcast. Learn more about Dr. Harmeet Gill https://www.eyefaceinstitute.com/our-doctors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 21, 2023
Napoleon
Napoleon Bonaparte is considered one of the greatest military leaders of all time. He is often mentioned alongside names such as Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, but whereas they existed thousands of years ago, he died only 200 years ago. And as such, his legacy is perhaps still being shaped more so than other comparatively more ancient figures. So what is the legacy of Napoleon? What are some of the preconceptions that have permeated into modern thought? Beyond his military achievement, what made Napoleon such a memorable figure? World-famous historian Andrew Roberts joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 14, 2023
219. Choosing a Baby Name
Choosing a baby name can be stressful. While a name is just a name, it will follow your child around for the rest of their life. What are some of the factors that go into this decision, and what are some newer trends that are being witnessed? The preconception might be that picking a baby name is as simple as googling lists online, but how can the process be more targeted and simplified? Name consultant Steph Coffield joins the podcast. Learn more about Steph Coffield Website - NamesWithSteph.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 07, 2023
218. America The Great
We often hear American politicians recite lines like, ‘The United States is the greatest country in the world’. Especially when it comes to US presidential elections, the notion that the United States is somehow different than the rest of the world is on full display. There’s an idea of American exceptionalism that persists, the thought that the United States is a fundamentally unique and special country, based on ethical pillars that are rare to find in other countries. So how did this idea originate, and is there indeed truth in it? Renowned historian Andrew O'Shaugnessy joins the podcast. Learn more about Andrew O'Shaughnessy here: https://www.andrewjoshaughnessy.com/home Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 31, 2023
217. Criminal Lawyer Turned Clown
One of the most significant preconceptions that governs our lives revolves around our career trajectory. For the most part, the status quo typically involves us choosing a general career path in our twenties and sticking with it for the duration of working years. But not for all of us. Robert Markowitz was a practicing criminal lawyer who gave it all up and became a clown. He joins the podcast. Robert's book 'Clown Shoes' - https://www.amazon.ca/Clown-Shoes-Robert-Markowitz/dp/1956474307 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 24, 2023
216. 'Wellness' and 'Mental Health' - Gone Too Far?
The terms ‘wellness’ and ‘mental health’ have been around for many years, but over the last decade, it’s taken on a life of its own. And while most of us would agree that looking after our wellness and self-care is a very important thing, one might also wonder, has this movement gone too far in some regards? And while it might seem that such a focus on wellness would naturally reduce stigma regarding actual psychiatric illness, is that necessarily the case? Psychologist Huw Green joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, October 16, 2023
215. Terror In Israel
On October 7th, Israel experienced its bloodiest day since its founding in 1948. In the immediate aftermath of these crimes, anti-Israel and anti-Semitic protests erupted around the world, coinciding with Hamas's "Day of Rage" to "attack Israelis and Jews". In this episode, we try to understand the events that transpired and equally try and comprehend the world's response. Risa Epstein, an educator on Judaism and Israel, joins the podcast. To learn more about the conflict in Israel and Palestine, listen to this other Preconceived episode that reviews the conflict in detail, at the link below: https://link.chtbl.com/IsraelPalestine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 10, 2023
Dopamine Nation
We live in a world in which we have easy access to almost anything we want. We see something online that we want, and we can have it delivered to our home that same day. And while increased access and availability can be a good thing, it can also be a dangerous one. With limitless access to more seemingly benign pastimes such as shopping and social media, as well as more obviously concerning pastimes such as drugs, gambling, and porn, the predilection to addiction is perhaps stronger than ever. Dr. Anna Lembke, Stanford Psychiatrist and author of Dopamine Nation, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 03, 2023
214. The Truth About Recycling
Pretty much everyone knows that recycling is important. But what exactly is recycling? The concept that’s been disseminated to society is that when you recycle thing, it gets repurposed and reused, hence recycled. This reduces the amount of garbage that goes into landfills and is ultimately a good thing. But is the glory, so to speak, of recycling somewhat of a preconception? How much of what you put into that recycling bin truly gets recycled? And where does all of our recycling actually go to be processed? Matt Ferrell joins the podcast. Matt Ferrell's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@undecidedmf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 26, 2023
213. Artistic Authenticity - Actor and Author Limitations?
Over the past several years, there has been controversy in many fields of the art world, including literature, film and television. Questions have been posed regarding the appropriateness of authors writing about certain topics, and actors portraying certain characters. For example, is it okay for a White author to write a fictional book about slavery in the United States? Is it okay for a cis male to play a trans male in a movie? At the heart of these questions lies the concepts of cultural appropriation and artistic authenticity. So how do we decide what is acceptable artistry, and what crosses a line, if such a line even does exist in such art forms. Culture writer Rachel Brodsky joins the podcast. Check out Rachel Brodsky's New Podcast https://rocknloadmag.com/news/introducing-in-sync-podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 19, 2023
212. Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder is an oft-misunderstood condition by the public. It can be tough to comprehend, because it requires an understanding of each of depression, mania, and the swings that can occur between them. So what exactly is Bipolar Disorder? What kind of insight does a patient with the disease have when they are experiencing the swings in mood and tendencies? And what are some of the benefits of manic episodes, if there are any at all? Kimi Culp joins the podcast. Kimi Culp's Website https://kimiculp.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 12, 2023
211. Is Torture Justifiable?
Torture is generally thought of as a bad things - an unacceptable means to an end. But what if that end is justifiable? In many cases, torture is clearly unethical - for example when used as a means of political suppression, as a fear tactic, or for a forced confession. But what about torture in more ambiguous cases - when the torturer is fairly confident that the person being tortured has key information that could save many lives if it were obtained? Juan Mendez joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 05, 2023
Money - A Made Up Thing
Money did not always exist in its current form. There was a time when goods and services were just exchanged for one another, without actual coins or cash changing hands. The preconception is that our current monetary system, the status quo, makes complete sense. But as millennia of history have proven to us, money is very complex, and there is a lot at stake. Jacob Goldstein, host of the popular NPR podcast, Planet Money, joins the podcast. Jacob Goldstein's book - "https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B083J1BPNC/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 29, 2023
210. The Sports Agent
In the life of an athlete, one of the major decision points is getting a sports agent to negotiate on their behalf. For most athletes, this is just ‘what you do’, the status quo. But recently, this paradigm has been challenged to an extent. After one high profile athlete negotiated without a sports agent, the necessity and role of the sports agent was called into question. Sports agent Even Laufer joins the podcast to break down preconceptions about sports agents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 22, 2023
209. Do You Believe in Jesus?
With over two billion followers worldwide, Christianity is the most popular religion in the world. For some, the preconception is ‘of course Christianity is the correct religious view’, with so many people subscribing to it. For others, the preconception might be, ‘how is it possible that so many people believe in a religion defined by a historical event that nobody can prove?’. Because in contrast to many other religions and worldviews, Christianity is perhaps more predicated than any on a specific historical event – the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. So how does one, and two billion people for that matter, come to devote their life to Christianity, despite all the uncertainty that surrounds the nature of this world? John Stackhouse, author of 'Can I Believe?', joins the podcast. John Stackhouse's Website https://www.johnstackhouse.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 15, 2023
208. The Film Critic - What Makes a Great Movie?
In the wake of 'Barbenheimer', there is perhaps more excitement surrounding the moviegoing experience than there has been in many years. But why does it feel like the film industry has been a bit lacklustre for the past while? Has the divide been film critics and audience grown, as critically acclaimed movies seem to get less attention than blockbuster Marvel-type films? And ultimately, what actually makes for a solid movie? Enjoyment, emotion, something thought-provoking, or all of the above? Renowned film critic Richard Crouse joins the podcast. Check out Richard Crouse's Latest Podcast - 'Last Call Podcast' https://rss.com/podcasts/lastcallwithrichardcrouse/ Richard Crouse's Website https://richardcrouse.ca Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 08, 2023
The Atomic Bomb
Shinji Mikamo is a survivor of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. His daughter, psychologist Dr. Akiko Mikamo, joins the podcast to share her father's story of survival and resilience in the face of the most deadly bomb to ever be dropped on the planet. She speaks about some of the common historical misconceptions regarding the necessity of dropping the atomic bomb and shares her father's lessons of forgiveness and empathy that he has urged others to adopt throughout his life. Akiko's Film - https://www.815documentary.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 01, 2023
207. Whole Body MRI
What if you could undergo a scan of of your whole body once a year to screen for any tumors, aneurysms, or any other medical abnormalities? On the surface, it sounds like a great idea, and indeed many companies are offering the opportunity to undergo whole body MRIs to catch medical findings before they become medical 'problems'. But is whole body MRI really all it's cracked up to be? Or can it also lead you down a rabbit hole chasing a diagnosis when nothing of consequence is to be found? Radiologist Dr. Matthew Davenport joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 25, 2023
206. Plant-Based Food
Most of us are familiar with the ethical quandaries of eating meat, and in particular the large-scale abuse of animals in modern-day farming and mass meat production. And in many ways, the question of whether it is ‘okay’ to eat other animals is a philosophical and personal one. But what does the research show about more objective measures of eating meat, like how it affects the environment and the impact it has on our health? Plant-based food diets are becoming increasingly popular – especially with the more recent advent of ‘beyond-meat’ food, food that is vegetarian but designed to taste like real meat. Is this actually a good alternative? Stuart Waldner, author of 'Escape the Meatrix', joins the podcast. https://www.amazon.ca/Escape-Meatrix-Plants-Great-Planet/dp/1544528752 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 18, 2023
205. Ice Baths and Cold Showers
Over the past several years, plunges into freezing cold ice baths have become increasingly popular – trendy even. There are growing communities of those who engage in the ritual of ice baths together, combined with breathwork and a form of meditation. Others practice cold therapy by simply taking freezing cold showers. But what does the research actually show? Dr. Matthijs Kox joins the podcast, to share his research in this field, with a particular epmahsis on The Wim Hof Method. https://www.radboudumc.nl/en/people/matthijs-kox Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 11, 2023
Israel and Palestine - A Complex History
The conflict in Israel and Palestine predates even the creation of the state of Israel in 1948. This episode explores the complicated history of Israel and Palestine, chronicling the ancient history of the temples in Jerusalem, to the Crusades, to the settlement of the land by Arabs almost 1,000 years ago, and to the more recent wars of 1948, 1967, the Intifadas, and the state of the conflict in present day. Tour gide and educator Yoav Biller shares shares perspectives from both the Israeli and Palestinian narratives. Yoav Biller's Website - https://www.wanderingisrael.co.il Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 04, 2023
204. A New Era of Parenting
When one thinks of traditional parenting, one might remember a stern talking to, or maybe even punished. In many ways, the traditional paradigm of parenting has been quite disciplinarian. In some regards, this has changed over the last several years. Many thought leaders and therapists now seem to be encouraging a different approach – one based less on punishment and ‘taking things away’, but more based on understanding our children’s feelings, walking them through their emotions, and not relying as heavily on punishment and consequences. So what exactly spawned this transformation? And how are kids being raised differently than they used to. Katy Albert joins the podcast. https://redpathcentre.ca/therapists-coaches/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 27, 2023
203. Euphemism Treadmill - Have We Become Too Sensitive?
If one looks at the English language, there are many terms now considered offensive that were considered commonplace, perhaps even sensitive, just a few decades ago. A typical pattern tends to emerge – a word is used to describe a particular group, perhaps innocently at first, and over time, it can become misused and turn into a slur. Another word comes in to replace it, but with time, that word too becomes misused and a slur. New words and phrases can be coined multiple times over the course of a few decades as the initial word becomes stigmatized. But is this a good thing? Or has society become too sensitive? Is The Euphemism Treadmill, as it has become known, a good thing? Author and linguist Karen Stollznow joins the podcast. https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/contributors/karen-stollznow-phd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 20, 2023
202. The Musician Myth
When one of thinks of a musician, the first image that might come to mind is their favorite recording artist. But the reality is – there are millions of musicians in the world who are not on your favorite Spotify playlist. Musicians include a wide variety of artists who have developed careers in all facets of the music industry. So what are the greatest preconceptions about musicians and what it takes to make 'good' music? Dr. Mike Daley and Jill Daley, two professional musicians, join the podcast. https://mikedaleymusic.com This episode is sponsored by Ministry of Ideas https://www.ministryofideas.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 13, 2023
201. Germany - A Complicated Legacy
In modern times, Germany is considered one of the more progressive Western countries in the world. During the Syrian refugee crisis, few countries took in as many Syrians as Germany did. But despite this, the first thing that likely comes to mind to many who hear the word ‘Germany’, is its association with the Holocaust and World War II. There is a stigma that still persists, despite the passage of almost 80 years since the events of the Holocaust took place. So how have Germans grappled with this stigma over the last eight decades? And how has this historical perception transformed in the minds of non-Germans? Professor Monica Black joins the podcast. Professor Monica Black https://history.utk.edu/people/monica-black/ This episode is sponsored by Ministry of Ideas https://www.ministryofideas.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 06, 2023
200. The Ultimate Preconceptions
In our 200th episode, Zale highlights some of the greatest preconceptions that have come to light for him over the course of series. Is the word 'extremism' overused? How do we analyze our preconceptions without being overwhelmed by every aspect of our lives? And is the ultimate preconception that each of us believes deep down that 'I am a good person'? Zale is joined by public speaking coaches Eric Silverberg and Eli Gladstone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 30, 2023
199. The Art of Conversation
We’ve all been to a party and felt a bit awkward walking around, immersing ourselves in some conversations that go nowhere, approaching someone we've kind of met before but don’t really know, and gauging when a conversation has come to an end. Most of us have also been in situations where we want to go up and talk to someone who seems interesting, but it just feels a bit too awkward to approach them out of the blue and initiate a conversation. And if we do start a conversation, what exactly are we supposed to talk about? Catherine Blyth, author of 'The Art of Conversation', joins the podcast. Catherine Blyth's Website https://catherineblyth.wordpress.com This episode is sponsored by Ministry of Ideas https://www.ministryofideas.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 23, 2023
198. Male Birth Control
When one thinks of birth control, it might be natural one might think of women before thinking of men. Aside from condoms and vasectomies, medical forms of birth control have really been directed towards women, with 'the pill' and intrauterine devices. But perhaps things are changing. Research has been underway to investigate the possibility of an on-demand male birth control. Dr. Lonney Levin and Dr. Melanie Balbach from the Levin/Buck Laboratory at Weill Cornell Medical College join the podcast. https://levbucklab.weill.cornell.edu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 16, 2023
197. Attention Span
Do you ever feel like you can’t simply sit down and do one task uninterrupted? When you sit down to do some work on your laptop, how soon before you check your email unnecessarily, or grab your phone and scroll down Instagram? Or even more basic – when you are doing something for pure pleasure – like reading a book or watching a movie – how long is it before you put the book down or start ignoring the movie in pursuit of some other trivial task? In short, how ‘good’ is your attention span? Dr. Gloria Mark joins the podcast. Dr. Gloria Mark - https://gloriamark.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 09, 2023
Regretting Motherhood
Few would admit to regretting their decision to become parents. But that doesn't mean there are not people who do indeed regret the choice to have kids. Is it possible to still love your children while regretting the choice to have had them? Is the admission of regret necessarily a bad thing? Orna Donath, author of Regretting Motherhood, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 02, 2023
196. Myths of Human Evolution and the Ancient Past
The history of humankind has been contemplated for millennia. How did we come to be the dominant life form on the planet? Many stories have been told over the course of civilization to try and explain our presence on Earth, and in the process, many myths of our ancient past have come to dominate popular thinking. So what remains myth, and what do we actually know about the origins of humankind? And for all of their inaccuracies, why have the myths and stories of our past been so important for human civilization over the years? Science journalist Evan Hadingham joins the podcast. Evan Hadingham's Book - https://www.amazon.com/Discovering-Us-Discoveries-Origins-1968-2018/dp/1560852771 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 25, 2023
195. The Beatles
There are certain things that are just ‘knowns’ in the world, preconceptions in the sense that we take particular facts for granted. One such ‘knowns’ in the world is that The Beatles is perhaps the greatest band of all time. But as great as The Beatles were, there have been tons of incredible bands since the 1960s. What differentiates The Beatles? Was their music truly so special to warrant the place they have in our cultural history? Is it possible that The Beatles are overrated? Or do they really live up to the hype? Beatles expert Dr. Holly Tessler joins the podcast. Dr. Holly Tessler - https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/music/staff/holly-s-tessler/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 18, 2023
194. Before Evil - The 'Humanization' of Dictators
When you think of some of the most brutal 20th century dictators, your mind likely conjures up images of ruthlessness, mass death, and anything associated with evil. And while there is no doubt that these dictators committed evil atrocities that are tough to comprehend, it’s reasonable to wonder, ‘how did such people come to be?’. Is it enough to just say they were inherently evil, or as with most things, is there a larger story to be told? Is there way to understand the actions of these dictators in, dare I say, an empathetic way? Is there a way to try and understand what led them to their tyranny while not excusing their actions? Brandon Gauthier, author of 'Before Evil', joins the podcast. https://beforeevil.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 11, 2023
193. The Sex Club
One of the paradoxes of sex is that while it is so common, it’s something we often feel uncomfortable talking about. Especially when it comes to sexual experimentation, there is a certain stigma that exists. But to an extent, that is changing, as new initiatives are being undertaken to reimagine sex’s place in society. The New Society for Wellness (NSFW), a Sex Club in New York City, seeks to change the way we view sex. NSFW CEO and co-founder Daniel Saynt joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 04, 2023
192. Mushrooms and Other Psychedelics
For decades, there has been substantial stigma associated with psychedelic drugs. After psychedelics’ association with counterculture in the 1960s, much of the medical research into the therapeutic effects of psychedelics was terminated. But over the last 10-20 years, much of the research into the healing powers of psychedelics has resumed. Stemming from this research, many psychedelics companies have emerged and clinics have opened that offer patients the opportunity to experience the powers of such psychedelics. In this episode, we will shift our focus specifically to mushrooms, and its active ingredient psilocybin, as we try to dissect some of our preconceptions regarding its growing use alongside other psychedelics. Matt Zemon joins the podcast. Matt Zemon - https://www.mattzemon.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 28, 2023
191. Self-Harm and Cutting
We learn from an early age that it’s not acceptable to harm others. Many would say it’s something we don’t even need to really learn – that it’s a natural human instinct to not want to cause harm. With that perspective, it’s natural that it would be extremely challenging for people to understand why someone would harm themselves . Why would some voluntarily elect to hurt themselves? Non-suicidal self injury refers to this practice, encompassing the terms self-harm, cutting, and other harmful practices. Dr. Chris Simpson, author of 'Cutting and Self Harm', joins the podcast. Check out Chris's book, 'Cutting and Self Harm' , at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cutting-and-self-harm-chris-simpson-phd/1121005370 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 21, 2023
190. The Aztecs - The Story from Their Perspective
The Aztec Empire famously fell following the arrival of the Europeans in the 16th century. Much of what we know about the Aztecs – including their rise, the nature of the empire, and its eventual fall, comes strictly from European accounts. But what did the Aztecs themselves think? The narrative has almost solely been shaped by the European perspective – but how did the Aztecs view the Europeans who eventually conquered them? Professor Camilla Townsend joins the podcast. Camilla's Book - Fifth Sun https://www.amazon.ca/Fifth-Sun-New-History-Aztecs/dp/0190673060/ref=asc_df_0190673060/?tag=googleshopc0c-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=411041496657&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2406240501790207548&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9000956&hvtargid=pla-715823711027&psc=1 This episode is sponsored by Discover More Podcast - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/discover-more-benoit-kim-w1KlycAfQGB/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 14, 2023
189. Serotonin Theory - Do We Actually Understand Depression?
For many years, depression has been treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, better known by its short form, SSRIs. Serotonin, of course, lies at the core of these medications, with the long-held belief that serotonin levels are lower in patients who suffer from depression. But how strong is the correlation between low serotonin levels and depression? Is the neurobiological basis of low serotonin being associated with depression as strong as we think? Some recent research has come out that perhaps casts the serotonin theory in doubt, and with it, our preconception that serotonin truly lies at the core of depression. Psychiatrist Dr. Joel Paris joins the podcast. This episode is sponsored by the podcast, Discover More. Check it out here - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/discover-more/id1478666639 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 07, 2023
Too Honest?
We are told from a very young age that being honest is a good thing. But most of us don’t really believe that honesty is always the best policy. Most of us allow for exceptions, omissions, and the occasional white lie, if it means sparing someone hurt feelings or avoiding an awkward conversation. Michael Leviton, author of "To Be Honest", spent most of his life not making such exceptions, and being honest to a fault, completely devoted to the truth. He joins the podcast to share the beauties and perils of such honesty. Michael's Websitehttp://michaelleviton.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 28, 2023
188. Antarctica
Antarctica is one of the most fascinating and mysterious places on Earth. One of Earth’s seven continents, it is easily the least inhabited, and in many ways, the least known about. To many, the preconception is that Antarctica is this cold, frozen, and desolate places, not fit for human living. But what exactly do we know about this remote continent? Is this unique landscape as inhospitable as one might expect, and what can we learn about humankind and the Earth at large from exploring its frontiers? Jean de Pomereu and Daniella McCahey, authors of 'Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects', join the podcast. Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects https://www.amazon.ca/Antarctica-History-Objects-Jean-Pomereu/dp/1844866211/ref=sr_1_1?crid=29JN3AHDMAEQS&keywords=antarctica+a+history+in+100&qid=1675552629&sprefix=antarctica+a+history+in+100%2Caps%2C100&sr=8-1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 21, 2023
187. 'Drunk' - An Argument for Intoxication
We all know about the potential abuse and addiction associated with alcohol and other drugs. Yet despite this, alcohol has persisted since the dawn of human societies. Does its persistence suggest that alcohol may actually be an important factor in the history of our civilization? In Edward Slingerland's book, 'Drunk', he explores the social benefits of alcohol and intoxication. He joins the podcast to share his insights. Check out 'Drunk' at https://www.amazon.ca/Drunk-Sipped-Danced-Stumbled-Civilization/dp/0316453382 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 14, 2023
186. Staying Friends with Exes, and 'The Apps'
There is a preconception that once a romantic relationship ends, the whole relationship ends. Is that always a good thing? And should it be considered the norm, or is the status of the post-breakup relationship something that people should give more conscious thought to? A Little Nudge founder, Erika Ettin, joins the podcast to discuss how we might move forward, if at all, in staying friends with exes. The conversation then pivots to online dating and how people can better optimize their chances of finding a romantic partner through 'The Apps'. Check out A Little Nudge at https://www.alittlenudge.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 07, 2023
185. 'Making It' in Hollywood
There are few dreams as glorified and romanticized as that of becoming an actor in Hollywood. And part of what makes the dream so glorified is that thousands of actors are pursuing the same goal, with so many people setting off for Los Angeles in hopes of the same type of success. But what is it like in reality trying to become a successful actor? And is there really such thing as 'making it' in Hollywood, or is that just one of the many misconceptions embedded in The Hollywood Dream? Actor Ely Henry joins the podcast. Learn more about Ely at http://www.theelyhenry.com/about Instagram @elyhenry Check out Ely's show 'Players' on Paramount Plus Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 01, 2023
184. Troy - The Motives of War
The Trojan War is one of the most famously described and mythologized accounts from Ancient Greek civilization. It was the passion-fuelled war waged by the Greek States against Troy, which has captivated our imagination for millennia and inspired multiple Hollywood portrayals. But what exactly do we know about The Trojan War? And what can a war from so many years ago teach us about some of the wars in our world today? Professor Barry Strauss - renowned historian, author, and television personality - joins the podcast. Lear more about Barry Strauss at https://barrystrauss.com. Check out Barry's podcast, ANTIQUITAS: Leaders and Legends of the Ancient World, at https://www.digitalpodcast.com/feeds/93584-antiquitas. This episode is sponsored by Uncertain Things - https://uncertain.substack.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 24, 2023
183. Originalism, The Supreme Court, and America's Future
In the United States, the term 'originalists' refers to those who believe that the US constitution should be interpreted today with the same conviction as it was followed when written hundreds of years ago. But how can the ideas and laws from over 200 years ago possibly just simply be accepted today, when we live in a totally different world? So what exactly is originalism? And how has it affected the Supreme Court in terms of decisions related to guns, abortion rights, and other domains? Professor Eric Segall joins the podcast. Twitter @espinsegall Check out Eric's book, 'Originalism as Faith', at https://www.amazon.ca/Originalism-as-Faith-Eric-Segall/dp/1316640469 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 17, 2023
182. Puberty Blockers
For centuries, the terms male and female have essentially been synonymous with man and woman. But for many, this is perhaps a misconception - the idea that one's biological sex they are born with portends a certain gender. In this episode, we explore the role of puberty blockers in children and adolescents who are contemplating transitioning. Is there a 'right' time for someone to begin transitioning? How do puberty blockers work? And if someone decides to take them, what are the long term risks and effects? Dr. Michelle Forcier, Professor of Pediatrics at Brown University, joins the podcast to discuss her experience in prescribing puberty blockers to patients. Learn more about Michelle Forcier at https://vivo.brown.edu/display/mforcier Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 10, 2023
181. Way of the Peaceful Warrior
We all search for meaning in this world. But as we each embark on our own journey, there are many preconceptions that exist about what that quest 'should' entail. Has the self-help movement veered from its initial goals? Do we tend to put too much faith into supposed 'enlightened' gurus? Lifelong seeker and internationally-renowned author Dan Millman joins the podcast to share some of his insights and perspectives on what it really means to find purpose in our lives. Learn more about Dan Millman and his books, including 'Way of the Peaceful Warrior', at https://www.peacefulwarrior.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 20, 2022
180. A Career Change
When we contemplate the word ‘career’, it’s natural to think of one singular profession that someone pursues via education and then remains in for a long period of time. When you think of a doctor or an accountant, you usually think of them practicing that profession for decades, the majority if not all of their work years. In the ‘corporate world’, job changes are perhaps more common, but it sometimes seems like people are becoming more inclined to pivot in their professional lives. Professor Serge da Motta Veiga joins the podcast to share insights and recent trends in the workplace. Learn more about Serge Da Motta Veiga - https://www.edhec.edu/en/research-and-faculty/faculty/professors-and-researchers/serge-da-motta-veiga Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 13, 2022
Pencils for Kids - Giving Back this Holiday Season
Zale is joined by his first ever guest from episode one, his mother Robin. On the first episode of this series, Robin discussed the idea of jumping into the unknown and embracing the twists and turns that life has to offer. In this episode, she shares one of her biggest "jump in" experiences, when she founded the charitable organization Pencils for Kids. Pencils for Kids provides education, training, and income-generating opportunities for children and women in Niger, one of the poorest countries in Africa. Robin speaks about the many lessons learned as she embarked on an unexpected journey. Get your copy of our book, 'Preconceived - challenging the preconceptions in our lives'. All profits will be going directly toward Pencils for Kids. https://www.amazon.com/Preconceived-Challenging-preconceptions-our-lives/dp/B0BBY7KL2X/ref =sr_1_1?crid=2SUTQF5XVW11V&keywords=preconceived&qid=1669510435&sprefix=preconceived%2Caps%2C80&sr=8-1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 06, 2022
179. Asexual
Aside from sex being the main method of procreation, it is one of humankind’s greatest pleasures, to which most of us subscribe. But there are indeed people in society who do not partake in sex, or at least with the same regularity as one might expect. There are people who identify as asexual. But what exactly is asexuality? Is it decreased libido? Is it rooted in different physiological urges, or is it more so related to social and psychological factors? Dr. Lori Brotto joins the podcast. Learn more about Dr. Lori Brotto and her work at https://www.loribrotto.com and https://brottolab.med.ubc.ca. Twitter @drloribrotto This episode is sponsored by the podcast, Uncertain Things. Check it out at https://uncertain.substack.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 29, 2022
178. Self Hypnosis
When you hear the word ‘hypnosis’, you might think of a swinging pendulum, or envision someone on a stage, showcasing a rare skill to a captivated audience. What you probably don’t think of – is hypnosis being used in a medical setting, by physicians. Stanford Professor Dr. David Spiegel joins the podcast to discuss how he has incorporated self-hypnosis into his medical practice. Check out the REVERI app for self-hypnosis at https://www.reveri.com This episode is sponsored by UNCERTAIN THINGS. Check out the podcast at https://uncertain.substack.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 22, 2022
177. Leg Lengthening - Surgery to Become Taller
There are many people who exist on the shorter end of the height spectrum. For some people, it might be not the biggest deal – but for others, it might significantly impact their lives. But what if there were a way to change your height … to go from shorter to taller? Enter the surgery known as leg lengthening, a procedure designed to help people get taller. Actor Rich Rotella joins the podcast to share his recent experience undergoing leg lengthening surgery. Learn more about Rich Rotella https://www.youtube.com/c/RichRotella https://www.instagram.com/richrotellaofficial/ https://www.imdb.com/title/tt22383626/ Learn more about Leg Lengthening Surgery https://www.youtube.com/c/Cyborg4Life This episode is sponsored by the podcast, A Pastor and a Philosopher Walk Into a Bar. https://pastorandphilosopher.buzzsprout.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 15, 2022
Residential Schools
When our history books speak of North American history, it can almost read as if Canada and the United States did not exist until the Europeans settled the lands, while in reality, these lands were populated by indigenous peoples for centuries prior. With the arrival of the Europeans, there were tragic economic implications, massive losses of land and rapid spread of disease that had devastating effects on the indigenous peoples. Perhaps most tragic was the Indian residential schools policy and initiative that took indigenous children away from their families, where their culture was eradicated. Theodore Fontaine, a member and former Chief of the Sagkeeng Ojibway First Nation, joins the podcast to share his story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 08, 2022
176. Napping
Many of us don't know what to make of napping; does napping provide health benefits, or is that just something we tell ourselves when we feel guilty for dozing off? Professor Sara Mednick is a cognitive neuroscientist and a leading expert on napping. She joins the podcast to share what she's learned from studying napping in her seven-bedroom sleep lab! Learn more about Sara Mednick: https://www.saramednick.com http://sleepandcognitionlab.org This episode is sponsored by A Pastor and a Philosopher Walk into a Bar: https://pastorandphilosopher.buzzsprout.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 01, 2022
175. Transition-Related Surgery
There are many preconceptions about what is entailed in transitioning, both from a medical and a surgical perspective. In this episode, Zale speaks with a urologist who specializes in transition-related surgeries at the University of Toronto. Below is a link to a previous episode we ran called 'The Transgender Experience', which delves more into the personal experience of someone who has transitioned themselves: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/48733119 This episode is sponsored by Uncertain Things - https://uncertain.substack.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 25, 2022
174. Shakespeare - What's all the fuss?
The works and plays of William Shakespeare have endured for centuries. But what is it about Shakespeare that has made his works such a mainstay in our culture for so long? Are his works truly as transcendent as one would think, or are there other reasons that explain his enduring legacy? Cassidy Cash, a historical map illustrator and host of That Shakespeare Life, the #2 Shakespeare history podcast in the world, joins the podcast. Learn more about Cassidy at www.cassidycash.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 18, 2022
173. To Buy or To Rent?
Part of 'The American Dream' is predicated on home ownership. Conventional wisdom suggests that it is a financially sound and important decision to buy a home rather than to rent from a landlord. But is this just something we've been indoctrinated to believe, or does the math really add up to support the financial wisdom of owning a home? Brad Barrett of the ChooseFI podcast joins the show. Subscribe to Brad's weekly newsletter at Choosefi.com/subscribe for Brad’s weekly newsletter Check out ChooseFI's latest episode that further delves into home ownership - https://www.choosefi.com/common-sense-spending-guidelines-ep-381/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 11, 2022
Birth Control of the Future
How will people make babies and prevent unwanted pregnancies in the future? This episode looks at everything from artificial wombs to birth control for people with sperm. How might new technologies and changes in social attitudes radically transform the way we think about human reproduction? This is a special episode from the podcast, 'Our Opinions Are Correct'. Check out Our Opinions Are Correct at https://www.ouropinionsarecorrect.com/shownotes/2020/12/3/episode-72-birth-control-of-the-future Buy our new book 'Preconceived' on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Preconceived-Challenging-preconceptions-our-lives/dp/B0BBY7KL2X/ref =sr_1_2?crid=233PEPA68XMHY&keywords=preconceived&qid=1664638901&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C60&sr=8-2
Tue, October 04, 2022
172. Astrology - science, religion, or neither?
Scorpio, Leo, Taurus, Pisces. These are just a few of the Zodiac signs in the world of astrology. But what exactly is astrology, and why do so many people follow it so closely? Is there any scientific evidence that the movement and positions of celestial objects in the solar system truly influences human affairs? Is astrology more akin to a science, a religion, or neither? Astrologer Mick joins the podcast to shed light on this often misunderstood topic. Check out unsiloed podcast at https://www.unsiloedpodcast.com Get your copy of our latest book, Preconceived, on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Preconceived-Challenging-preconceptions-our-lives/dp/B0BBY7KL2X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1YI8CVPAB2XKY&keywords=preconceived&qid=1664636795&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=preconceived%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 27, 2022
171. Sole Survivor - A glimpse into reality TV
Survivor is the most iconic reality television competition of the last twenty years. And Todd Herzog, the winner of Survivor's 15th season, is one of the show's most iconic winners. Todd joins the show to shed some light on what it's really like to play Survivor, and how his life changed when he came back to regular society. He also shares personal reflections on his battle with addiction and how that has been misrepresented in pop culture. Check out Todd's Pop Shop on instagram @toddspopshop Get your copy of 'Preconceived' TODAY, available in Paperback and Kindle, at https://www.amazon.com/Preconceived-Challenging-preconceptions-our-lives/dp/B0B7QJPQDK . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 21, 2022
170. Preconceived - A Collection of Insights
The much anticipated anthology, "Preconceived: Challenging the preconceptions in our lives" launches today on Amazon ! The book is a collection of stories, thoughts, and beliefs of over fifty of the guests who have been featured on our award-winning podcast. In this episode, we provide a sneak peak 'audiobook' look into what the collection has in store, with Zale as well as four contributors reading their respective book chapters. Get your copy of 'Preconceived' TODAY, available in Paperback and Kindle, at https://www.amazon.com/Preconceived-Challenging-preconceptions-our-lives/dp/B0B7QJPQDK . All profits from the book will be going to the charitable organization, Pencils for Kids. https://pencilsforkids.com Check out the podcast, Uncertain Things, at https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/uncertain-things/id1529979654 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 14, 2022
169. The War Correspondent
Most people veer away from dangerous places. Yet there are some people in this world, who not only don’t avoid such places, but rather seek them out; journalists who report on some of the most dangerous and devastating conflicts in the world. So why would somebody risk their life, in some cases, to report on deadly conflicts far away? Why would somebody become a war correspondent, and what does the job entail? War correspondent Sam Mednick joins the podcast. Follow Sam on twitter at @sammednick Check out the podcast - Uncertain Things - at https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/uncertain-things/id1529979654 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 06, 2022
168. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)
You might have heard of the term NFTs, short-form for non-fungible tokens. Some NFTs include virtual memorabilia such as art pieces and virtual real estate, worth upwards of millions of dollars, while other NFTs serve what one might consider more practical purposes. But what is exactly is an NFT, and how does it fit into our economy? Dr. Merav Ozair, a global leading expert on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency, joins the podcast. I’m joined today by Dr. Meravo Ozair. Dr. Ozair is a global leading expert on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency, with a background of a data scientist and a quant strategist. She has in-depth knowledge and experience in global financial markets and its market microstructure. Currently, Dr. Ozair applies her unique expertise to researching and investigating distributed ledger technology (DLT) and Blockchain ecosystem, digital assets, crypto markets and specifically, decentralized finance (DeFi) space and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). She is a FinTech professor at Rutgers Business School (RBS), where she has developed and teaches courses on blockchain and digital assets. She is the Editor-in-Chief of the World Scientific Series in FinTech at World Scientific Publishing, and has been frequently interviewed on blockchain, NFTs and DeFi space by world-wide media, such as Bloomberg, BBC, New York Times, Forbes, and more. Learn more about Dr. Merav Ozair at doctorblockchain.io Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 30, 2022
Would Being a Millionaire Make You Happier?
“Money can’t buy you happiness” … so the adage goes. But deep down, most people would probably still prefer to have more money in their pockets if given the opportunity. And despite the notion that money perhaps does not equal happiness, many people do spend their lives with a primary goal of making more money. So what is the actual impact of money on happiness? Clay Cockrell, a psychotherapist who works with ultra-high-networth individuals, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 23, 2022
167. Midwives and Home Births - An 'Alternative' Pregnancy
In modern 'Western' society, it is routine for women giving birth to be under the care of a physician in a hospital. The preconception is that the safest and most normal birth process should take place in a licensed healthcare setting under the supervision of an MD. But, there are many women who opt for a different birth experience, that is, under the care of a midwife, either in the hospital or in the comfort of their own home. Midwife Alyssa Byers-Heinlein joins the podcast. Check out the podcast, Curious State! You can find episodes at https://pod.link/curiousstate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 16, 2022
166. The Talent Agent - Finding the Next Star
Many actors do their best to 'make it' in the entertainment industry. But does talent always win out? What are the factors that help or hurt someone's foray into acting? And equally as important, how do talent agents go about finding and selecting the talent they want to feature? Talent manager Shari Quallenberg joins the podcast. Learn more about Shari at https://amiagency.ca/about-us/ Check out the How Do We Fix It podcast at www.howdowefixit.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 09, 2022
165. 'Relationship OCD' - The Anxiety of Love
There are so many adages in regards to love and relationships. Many hinge on the notion that we must be absolutely certain in our choice of a romantic partner and that there should be no doubts when we ultimately decide on 'the one'. But is that a realistic framework for love? And how can the search for the Hollywood vision of love, in some cases lead to severe cases of relationship anxiety, otherwise known as relationship OCD (ROCD)? Kiyomi LaFleur, founder of Awaken into Love, joins the podcast. www.awakenintolove.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 02, 2022
164. The Metaverse
For a long time now, people have been ‘living online’, so to speak, communicating and maintaining friendships via social media, and using the Internet to optimize many facets of their lives. For some though, ‘living online’ has taken on a much deeper meaning … becoming so immersed in virtual reality and gaming, that that can seem just as ‘real’ as life itself. With further developments in virtual reality, we have witnessed the development of what is now known as ‘the metaverse’. But what exactly is the metaverse? Alex Lambert, who works in Virtual Reality and Augmented Gaming, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 26, 2022
Children of Nazis (Re-Post)
How would you react if you found out that your parent was a monster? This hypothetical situation isn't far off from the experiences of the children of leading Nazis who participated in the Holocaust. Tania Crasnianski documented her research into the lives of the children of Nazis in her incredibly fascinating book, 'Children of Nazis'. She joins the podcast to share the insights from her work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 19, 2022
163. Disciplined Minds - The Subordination of Professionals
We urge people to be creative, with phrases like ‘think outside the box’, and ‘push the envelope’. But for the most part, is all our talk of innovation and free thinking just rhetoric? Does society truly encourage people to think in new, and even radical, ways? Does society champion the rogue thinker, or does it rather support both students and professionals who simply follows suit with the status quo and acquiesce to the traditional lines of thinking? Jeff Schmidt, author of the 2000 book, Disciplined Minds: A Critical Look at Salaried Professionals and the Soul-Battering System That Shapes Their Lives, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 12, 2022
162. Financial Independence - ChooseFI
Do you feel like you truly have a good grasp on your finances? Or do you ever wonder if you're just following the motions and simply 'trusting' in conventional financial wisdom in regards to savings and retirement? Brad Barrett, co-founder of the popular ChooseFI community, joins the podcast to discuss financial independence. ChooseFI website - https://www.choosefi.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 05, 2022
161. 'Sage on the Stage' - Are Lectures Passé?
Doctors have been trained in pretty much the same way for many decades. Prior to any hands-on practical training, medical students spend about 2 years going through a series of lectures delivered by other doctors. In fact, this is the general model for how most professionals, and even undergraduate students, are trained – via in-person traditional sorts of lectures with a professor standing at the front of a large lecture hall, disseminating the information that is to be learned. But is this the best approach for learning, both in the context of medical school, and educational programs at large? Dr. Sanjay Sharma joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, June 27, 2022
160. 'The New I Do' - Reimagining Marriage
Divorce is so common that it's reasonable to call into question the establishment of marriage itself. Does marriage in its current form still make sense? Do newer types of marriages, such as 'trial marriages' or 'short-term contract marriages' warrant more serious consideration before people plunge into the 'traditional marriage' model? Vicki Larson joins the podcast, a journalist and co-author of 'The New "I Do', alongside fellow co-author Susan Gadoua. Vicki's website - http://omgchronicles.vickilarson.com/bio/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 23, 2022
The Other Side - 'Pro Life'
The "pro-life" vs. "pro-choice" dilemma regarding abortion is the centre of much heated debate in the United States. On a previous episode of the podcast, we spoke with an obstetrician regarding abortion in Canada and the United States and examined the concept of reproductive justice and why it is important for a woman to have the right to choose. On this episode, we are joined by Annette Lancaster, who identifies as pro-life. She describes her experience working at Planned Parenthood and sheds light on why she and many others hold the stance that they do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 21, 2022
The Other Side - 'Pro Gun'
It can be tough to understand how so many in the United States are on the 'pro-gun' side of the gun debate. For many, the issue seems simple - "guns are bad, and we should do everything we can to limit them". But what is the background of gun legislation? What is the perspective of many people who support gun rights yet also share the same goal of lowering crime rates in the United States? Trevor Burrus of the Cato Institute joins the podcast to shed some light on this complicated issue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 14, 2022
159. Opioid Decriminalization
While cannabis has become legalized in many parts of the world, most other drugs not only remain illegal, but are actually criminalized. The opioids crisis has escalated even further during the COVID pandemic, and experts are revisiting the question of whether or not opioids should be decriminalized. So what is decriminalization? And is it a good idea? Dr. Sarah Elliott joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 07, 2022
158. Momfluencers
Influencers can include pretty much anyone who has a significant following on social media – whether it be chefs, models, actors, or celebrities of any sort. And there is a new type of influencer on the rise, the influencer that is also a mother - the 'Momfluencer'. I am joined today by Sara Petersen, author of the upcoming book MOMFLUENCED, coming out in 2023 from Beacon Press. twitter & instagram @slouisepetersen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 31, 2022
157. The Divorce Lawyer
Divorce can be a very challenging part of someone’s life, filled with change, often sadness, and many other complex emotions. But aside from the emotional factors, there is a whole legal process that divorce entails. So what is it like to navigate through the legal system amid a divorce? What are some of the preconceptions about what one actually needs in a divorce lawyer and what the role of the divorce lawyer is? Lawyer Sean Valentine joins the podcast. https://www.epsteinlawyers.com/team/meet-sean/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 24, 2022
156. 'Japonisme' - Inside the Japanese Mindset
Japan has a famously insular and unique culture. It is a country filled with a rich history and ethos that is quite distinct from any other country in the world. But what lies at the core of Japanese culture? What lessons about meaning, happiness, and contentment can we derive from a better understanding of this fascinating country? Erin Niimi Longhurst, author of the book 'Japonisme', joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 17, 2022
155. Free Will
We like to think of ourselves as in control of our own lives. But in an age of indulgence and addiction, do we really have as much agency over our decisions as we like to think? How does either a belief in a higher power or a belief in a purely materialistic world influence our perspective on free will? Psychiatrist Dr. Christian Heim joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 10, 2022
154. Forever Young - Would You Choose to Live Indefinitely?
Imagine you could take a pill that would biologically halt the aging process. Barring any traumatic accidents or lethal infections, you could essentially live indefinitely at the same age you are today, perhaps until age 1,000 or beyond. Would you take that pill? Professor John Davis, author of New Methuselahs: The Ethics of Life Extension, joins the podcast. https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/new-methuselahs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, May 02, 2022
153. Life Extension
The idea of 'life extension' has become trendy over the past several decades. If we take the right supplements and certain medications, is it possible to live well beyond a hundred years old and to slow the aging process itself? Dr. Jay Olshansky is one of the world leaders in the field. He joins the podcast to shed some misconceptions. http://sjayolshansky.com/sjo/Background.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 26, 2022
152. Human Sacrifice
When someone takes a life in our societies, they are punished severely and sent away to prison for many years. But for all the value placed on human life, there are certain societies in human history that have practiced human sacrifice. What lies at the core of this practice, and what do we know about the motivations involved? Johns Hopkins archaeologist and professor Glenn Schwartz joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 19, 2022
Veganism - 'A Political Act of Refusal' (Re-post)
Walking through the meat aisle of a grocery store, do you ever wonder whether it is normal to eat animals? Even if you do think it is normal to eat animals, what about well-documented abuse of animals in the food industry? The veganism movement is associated with many preconceptions, both regarding the types of people who become vegans and the ideology itself. Dr. Corey Wrenn is a sociologist, social justice activist and a leading voice in the veganism movement, who joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 12, 2022
151. Dopamine Nation - Gambling, Sex & Drugs
We live in a world in which we have easy access to almost anything we want. We see something online that we want, and we can have it delivered to our home that same day. And while increased access and availability can be a good thing, it can also be a dangerous one. With limitless access to more seemingly benign pastimes such as shopping and social media, as well as more obviously concerning pastimes such as drugs, gambling, and porn, the predilection to addiction is perhaps stronger than ever. Dr. Anna Lembke, Stanford Psychiatrist and author of Dopamine Nation, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 05, 2022
150. 'Trust In Science'
Most of us believe in science. We trust in the scientific method and the worldly truths that have been derived from a multitude of scientific disciplines. But is it possible that science has become too synonymous with truth? Has science been put on such a pedestal that the general public has come to blindly accept certain things as truths, even if the evidence isn't quite as robust as we might believe? Harvard Professor and astrophysicist Dr. John Johnson joins the podcast. Listen to John's previous episode, Mysteries of the Cosmos, at the following link: https://www.spreaker.com/user/16250600/mysteries-of-the-cosmos-repost Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 29, 2022
149. War in Ukraine - What Makes This Conflict Different?
As the brutal war in Ukraine continues, it can feel like we are entering unprecedented times. Perhaps the reason this war feels so shocking is that we have arguably been living in one of the most peaceful periods of human history over the past several decades. Wars initiated with the sole intent of expanding a country’s land mass and conquering another people, just aren’t nearly as common as they were a hundred years ago. So is this war in Ukraine merely a blip, or conversely, is the anomaly rather the relative period of peace we have experienced over the past several decades? Professor William Wohlforth joins the podcast. https://faculty-directory.dartmouth.edu/william-c-wohlforth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 22, 2022
148. Myths of the Beauty Industry
Billions of dollars per year are spent on products and services for 'beautification'. Skin creams, exfoliants, cleansers; botox and other plastic surgery. How has society's definition of beauty come to be so intertwined with certain elements of physical appearance? And perhaps equally importantly, do these products and services even achieve what they promise? Beauty expert Jessica DeFino joins the podcast. https://www.jessica-defino.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 15, 2022
147. Emotional Memory
How is memory influenced by emotion? Are we more likely to remember an event accurately if it was associated with a strong emotion, or would high emotionality be more likely to distort a memory? How powerful is nostalgia, and do we tend to overly glorify past events in our life with the passage of time? Boston College Professor and memory expert Elizabeth Kensinger joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 08, 2022
146. The Malleability of Human Memory
How accurate is the human memory? Dr. Elizabeth Loftus is a world-renowned psychologist who has devoted her career to studying the malleability of human memory. She joins the podcast to share what her research has shown regarding the accuracy of human memories, and explains how completely fabricated memories can actually be incepted into people's minds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 01, 2022
145. Friends Forever
Much research has been conducted over the years that clearly outlines the numerous benefits of strong interpersonal relationships. But what actually constitutes a strong and meaningful friendship? Which elements of a friendship contribute to our own happiness? The Harvard Study of Adult Development began in 1938 and is the longest study to date to look at happiness. Dr. Robert Waldinger is the current head of the study and joins the podcast to share lessons about friendship derived from the research. The Lifespan Research Foundation https://www.lifespanresearch.org/harvard-study/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 24, 2022
144. Rise of the Sapien (Part 2)
On the last episode of Preconceived, palaeontologist Kallie Moore joined the show to discuss the evolution of sapiens from the original mammals and great Apes. We explored what we know about neanderthals and how our homo sapien ancestors interacted with them. In this subsequent episode, we discuss how homo sapiens spread around the world and surmise as to what the future of our species might look like. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 23, 2022
143. Dawn of the Sapien (Part 1)
The earth has existed for over 4.5 billion years. It can be tough to grasp that within those 4.5 billion years, humans have only existed for a few hundred thousand of them, a mere moment in time. So how did we, homo sapiens, come to be? Kallie Moore, paleontologist and co-host of the popular PBS YouTube channel Eons, joins the podcast. In this first of two episodes, Kallie walks listeners through the origin of our species from the Great Apes, and shares what knowledge we have on our historical interactions with the now extinct neanderthals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 22, 2022
Myths of the Beauty Industry
Many would argue that beauty has become synonymous with a youthful appearance – basically, not looking old with wrinkly skin. What has the beauty industry’s role been in promoting this notion of beauty equaling youth? And while beauty products are advertised to make our skin healthier, are many of them actually just harmful to our skin? Beauty journalist Jessica DeFino joins the podcast. Jessica DeFino Sign up for her newsletter at: https://jessicadefino.substack.com/about Instagram @jessicadefino_ Twitter@jessicadefino_
Tue, February 15, 2022
Dawn of the Sapien (Part 1)
The earth has existed for over 4.5 billion years. It can be tough to grasp that within those 4.5 billion years, humans have only existed for a few hundred thousand of them, a mere moment in time. So how did we, homo sapiens, come to be? Kallie Moore, paleontologist and co-host of the popular PBS YouTube channel Eons, joins the podcast. In this first of two episodes, Kallie walks listeners through the origin of our species from the Great Apes, and shares what knowledge we have on our historical interactions with the now extinct neanderthals.
Tue, February 08, 2022
142. The Communist 'Dream' - Democracy to Dictators
In the West, when many of us in hear the word Communism, our minds likely flash to images ruthless dictators, like Stalin in the USSR and Mao in China. Or, we might think of the Cold War, where communism served as the philosophical and economic enemy of Western capitalism. But communism as it has been practiced over the last century actually emerged from the philosophies of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels in the 1800s. So what was the initial idea behind communism, and how did the initial ideology morph over time in the twentieth century? Professor Terrell Carver joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 01, 2022
141. Philosophy - 'Intentional Wisdom'
In a way, we are all philosophers, trying to make sense of this mysterious world, how we fit within it, and how we can live our happiest and most meaningful lives. But how far does all of the contemplation really get us? Is the world of philosophy merely a realm of overthinking and pontification, or does it truly yield to practical changes in the way we live our lives? Eric Weiner is an acclaimed journalist and former foreign correspondent for NPR. He joins the podcast to speak about his latest book, The Socrates Express: In Search of Life Lessons from Dead Philosophers.Eric Weiner Website - https://ericweinerbooks.comBut his book The Socrates Express - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07Z43PM23/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1Speaker LabsThis episode is sponsored by Speaker Labs. Sign up for their incredible online course. Use the promo code PRECONCEIVED at checkout for 50% off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 25, 2022
140. Doctors - Behind the White Coat
Are doctors really the heroes that some tv shows make them out to be? Is our medical system as idealistic as many patients try to believe? Dr. Samuel Shem helped shatter the illusion of the "medical fantasy" with his famous satirical novel The House of God many years ago. He joins the podcast to give a refreshingly honest glimpse into what it's really like being a doctor and how to best navigate the shortcomings of the healthcare system.Check out Shem's latest book - Man's 4th Best Hospitalhttps://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07NTXS9HL/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1This episode is sponsored by Speaker LabsUse the code PRECONCEIVED at checkout to get 50% off their incredible online public speaking course. https://courses.speakerlabs.ca/sixweekprogram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 18, 2022
139. Birth Order - Why Siblings Are Different
Aside from our genetics, there are many reasons why we might be different from our siblings. It has been well-documented that patterns in parental favouritism and sibling interactions affect our personalities, friendships and intelligence. Dr. Catherine Salmon, Professor of Psychology and author of The Secret Power of Middle Children, joins the podcast.Catherine Salmon's Bookhttp://www.thesecretpowerofmiddlechildren.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 11, 2022
138. Six Feet Under (Part 2)
In this second of two episodes regarding death and the funeral process, funeral director Emily Bootle explains the process of embalming and the decision to have an open versus closed casket funeral. She ends by sharing lessons she has learned from working so closely with death and how they shape the way she lives her life.Koru Funeral Home http://korucremation.comEpilogue WillsThis episode is sponsored by Epilogue Wills. Check them out at http://epiloguewills.com and use the promo code PRECONCEIVED at checkout for a discount on your will. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 04, 2022
137. Six Feet Under (Part 1)
For most, the word “death” conjures up emotions of fear and sadness. While death is one of the few certainties of life, it is something that most people would probably agree that you can never prepare for. But is there a different way to look at death and dying, perhaps with less of a negative sentiment? Funeral director Emily Bootle joins the podcast to share insights on death, dying and the funeral process.KORU Funeral Homehttps://www.korucremation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 21, 2021
Fifty Shades of Preconceived (Re-Post)
For our new Preconceived listeners, this episode from over a year ago is a good "starter episode" to give a flavour for what the podcast is all about. Zale reflects on starting the podcast and some of the biggest preconceptions that he has tried to better understand. How has his exploration into preconceptions changed his views of the world? Have any of the things he's learned influenced the way he lives his life? He is joined by public speaking experts Eric Silverberg and Eli Gladstone, who take on the role of co-hosts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 14, 2021
136. Polyamory (Part 2)
In this second of two episodes regarding Polyamory, we are joined by guest Alana Phelan, who practices polyamory herself. She shares lessons learned from her decades in the polyamorist community. Alana PhelanWebsite - http://polyamorouslibrarian.wordpress.comTwitter @hellolibrarianFacebook @Polyamorous Librarian Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 07, 2021
135. Polyamory (Part 1)
Monogamy is such an indoctrinated part of society that it can often seem as if monogamy is the only option for a relationship. But with the heightened liberalization of society, there has been increasing adoption of other romantic relationships that do not conform to monogamy. And with this, our traditional views of love, co-habitation and inter-dependence are being challenged. Dr. Eli Sheff, a sociologist and world-renowned researcher in the area of polyamory, joins Preconceived.Dr. Eli (Elisabeth) SheffWebsite - https://elisabethsheff.comBook - https://www.amazon.ca/Polyamorists-Next-Door-Multiple-Partner-Relationships/dp/144225310X Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 30, 2021
134. On Death Row
When someone is sentenced to die, it’s not always what you might think. The average time that an inmate in the States waits on death row is 10 years, with many serving up to 30 years before execution, living in solitary confinement for sometimes 23 hours a day. So why is the wait so long? And do the prisoners' crimes warrant such harsh prison stays? James Acker, a lawyer and co-editor of the book “ Living on Death Row: The Psychology of Waiting to Die”, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 23, 2021
133. Dismantling the Corporate Ladder - Anarchy or Utopia?
As much as companies have progressed and become more flexible over the past two years, a general business structure still exists at most companies … a boss, employees at various levels, and a hierarchy in which it is clear to whom one is accountable. There are set working hours, vacation arrangements, and bonus structures. But is the status quo of how a business operates truly the best way for it to function? Katharina William, spokesperson for Management 3.0, joins the podcast to share an alternative paradigm and philosophy on corporate structure.Management 3.0To learn more about their easy-to-implement leadership tools, visit management30.com. And don't miss their upcoming virtual conference on how to navigate the post-pandemic world: https://fwd-summit.com/virtual/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 16, 2021
132. A Tragic Love Affair with Honesty
We are told from a very young age that being honest is a good thing. But most of us don’t really believe that honesty is always the best policy. Most of us allow for exceptions, omissions, and the occasional white lie, if it means sparing someone hurt feelings or avoiding an awkward conversation. Michael Leviton, author of "To Be Honest", spent most of his life not making such exceptions, and being honest to a fault, completely devoted to the truth. He joins the podcast to share the beauties and perils of such honesty. Michael's Websitehttp://michaelleviton.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 09, 2021
The Sperminator - 100 Kids and Counting (Repost)
Ari Nagel is perhaps the most famous sperm donor in the world. He has fathered seventy children through sperm donation and has more children on the way. Unlike traditional sperm donation, Ari does not charge any money for his sperm and is involved in varying degrees in the lives of his kids. So what prompted Ari to devote his life to this cause? How does he keep track of seventy kids? What problems does he foresee in the future, and how does he respond to some of the negative criticism he has gotten? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 02, 2021
131. Regretting Parenthood
Few would admit to regretting their decision to become parents. But that doesn't mean there are not people who do indeed regret the choice to have kids. Is it possible to still love your children while regretting the choice to have had them? Is the admission of regret necessarily a bad thing? Orna Donath, author of Regretting Motherhood, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 26, 2021
130. How To Be An Adult
The boundary between adolescence and adulthood is naturally blurred. Usually, there is no distinct moment in which you seize to be a “youth” and begin to be an “adult”. But more important than identifying a key moment in time when this transition occurs, what does it actually mean to “become an adult”? Former Stanford Dean and New York Times bestselling author Julie Lythchott-Haims re-joins the podcast to explore her new book, "Your Turn: How to Be an Adult".Julie's Website (with links to her books)https://www.julielythcotthaims.comFollow Julie on Twitter @jlythcotthaims Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 19, 2021
129. Questioning Christianity
Christianity is the most commonly practiced religion in the world, with over 2.3 billion people identifying as Christians. Not surprisingly, the life of Jesus Christ is at the core of Christianity. Many of Christianity’s rituals, philosophies and belief systems are based on the events of his life. So what does Jesus Christ mean to Christianity, and how did his legacy shape this popular religion? Beyond Jesus himself, what has Christianity come to represent in a world that has become increasingly secularized? Father Matt Lowry joins the podcast.Father Matt's InformationCatholic Jacks - https://catholicjacks.org/people/fr-matt-lowryTwitter @naunewman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 12, 2021
128. Money - The True Story of a Made-Up Thing
Money did not always exist in its current form. There was a time when goods and services were just exchanged for one another, without actual coins or cash changing hands. The preconception is that our current monetary system, the status quo, makes complete sense. But as millennia of history have proven to us, money is very complex, and there is a lot at stake. Jacob Goldstein, host of the popular NPR podcast, Planet Money, joins the podcast. Jacob Goldstein's book - "Money - The True Story of a Made-Up Thing"https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B083J1BPNC/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1Follow Jacob on Twitter @jacobgoldstein Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 05, 2021
Selling Sex (Repost)
Both the legality of prostitution and the ethics of sex work are highly debated topics worldwide. Is there anything inherently wrong with a person deciding to sell sex for money? Beyond this, what is the relationship between sex work, and the very different but often conflated topic of sex trafficking? Carly Kalish, a social worker and executive director of Victim Services of Durham Region, joins the podcast to discuss the stigmas regarding sex work and the dangers and misconceptions about trafficking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 28, 2021
127. The Psychedelic Trip
What is like to be on a psychedelic "trip", and what can it teach one about life's meaning and purpose? What kind of alternate form of reality and consciousness, if any, do psychedelics tap into?Jon Folak, who goes by the moniker, The Traveling Nobody, joins the podcast to discuss his psychedelic experiences with mushrooms and ayahuasca. Jon Folak's website - https://travelingnobody.netRelated Preconceived Episodes on Psychedelics - Psychedelics - Moving Inward: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/psychedelics-moving-inward/id1458140859?i=1000515955439 - Psychedelics - Right to Consciousness: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/psychedelics-the-right-to-consciousness/id1458140859?i=1000488352785 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 21, 2021
126. Medieval Times
World-renowned author and historian Susan Wise Bauer rejoins the podcast to shed some "light" on the "dark ages", more commonly known as the Middle Ages. Why is this 1,000 year period of human history considered with generally negative regard? Is the Middle Ages even a real thing, or just something created by later historians? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 14, 2021
125. Reimagining Education
Our younger years are dominated by education. The foundation of our daily routine is attending school, and the overarching purpose of our lives, so to speak, is to become educated before entering the “real world”. But for all the hours, days and years spent sitting in classrooms, is our conventional education system actually as good as it could be? World-renowned author and historian Susan Wise Bauer joins the podcast to share her unique approach to education. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 07, 2021
124. The Choice Paradox
The choices available to humans have perhaps never been as widespread as they are in the 21st century. This can apply to the simple things like our choice in restaurants, tv shows, and books, and to the more serious life decisions, like which career to pursue, which partner to choose, and trying to find meaning via a myriad of different ways. But while choice can be an amazing thing that opens up all sorts of opportunities, it can also be overwhelming. Psychologist and Decision Researcher Dr. Eva Krockow joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 31, 2021
123. Alzheimer's
Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can be devastating diseases for both the patients and families affected. What is it like in the early stages of dementia, when one is aware of the further cognitive decline that is to come? When the disease becomes more advanced, is there any benefit in reorienting the patient to the present , or is it wiser to allow them to roam where their thoughts take them? Occupational therapist Nira Rittenberg joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 26, 2021
122. The American Military - 'Don't Ask Don't Tell' (Part 2)
In this sequel episode, former American infantryman Alan Leggitt shares his experience of serving in the military as bisexual during the era of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell". Under this policy, which was only lifted in 2011, members of the American military were not allowed to reveal or ask questions regarding one's sexual orientation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, August 23, 2021
121. The American Military - Chasing Ghosts (Part 1)
Being part of the military is widely viewed as something honorable, dutiful and patriotic. But as the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have endured for so long over the past two decades, many questions have arisen. Are the sacrifices that American citizens have been asked to make for their country always worth it? How do soldiers respect authority and take orders from superiors, when perhaps they don’t agree with the missions they are fighting? Former American infantryman Alan Leggitt joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 17, 2021
Unorthodox - Leaving Extremist Religion (Repost)
Gene Steinberg was born and raised in a Jewish Hasidic community in New York. At age 28, he made the difficult decision to leave orthodox-Judaism to live a life more aligned with his personal values. Gene explains what it is like to live in an isolationist Hasidic community, how he came to leave this way of life and the challenges that he and many others face when they do so. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 10, 2021
120. The Boxer
There are few sports as intense as boxing, where you are in a ring, on your own, fighting one-on-one against a fierce competitor. So what is it like to be a boxer? What motivates someone to engage in such an extreme sport, ridden with such physical risk and potentially even psychological harm? And as a sport and industry in general, is boxing still appropriate in the times we live in today? Retired Canadian heavyweight champion Mark Simmons joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 03, 2021
119. Napoleon The Great
Napoleon Bonaparte is considered one of the greatest military leaders of all time. He is often mentioned alongside names such as Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, but whereas they existed thousands of years ago, he died only 200 years ago. And as such, his legacy is perhaps still being shaped more so than other comparatively more ancient figures. So what is the legacy of Napoleon? What are some of the preconceptions that have permeated into modern thought? Beyond his military achievement, what made Napoleon such a memorable figure? World-famous historian Andrew Roberts joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 27, 2021
118. My OCD
In this episode, Zale opens up about his own experience with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. What is an obsession, and what is a compulsion? How does OCD extend far beyond the preconception of a pure focus on cleanliness? Zale gives a window into what it is like living with anxiety and sheds some light on psychiatric illness in general. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 20, 2021
117. Can You Separate The Art From The Artist?
What are we to do with the books, movies, songs and performances created by some of society's most iconic artists who have later been exposed for certain wrongdoings? Is it enough to denounce them? Or must we reject their art as well? How do we separate the art from the artist? Or perhaps more importantly, should we separate the art from the artist? Vox.com critic Constance Grady joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, July 15, 2021
116. Life After Covid - 'Back To Normal'
As vaccine rollout is well on its way in many countries around the world, we can begin to consider a return to “normal life” in perhaps the not too distant future. But what does “normal” actually look like? After over a year of this pandemic, our lives have drastically changed. As we begin to look to post-pandemic life, is it realistic to think that things will simply go back to the way they were? Or has covid changed the way we look at the world and the way we wish to live within it? How might introverts and extroverts respond differently to the re-openings of society? Why is anxiety on the rise? And how can we all prepare ourselves for the changes that will inevitably come? Therapist Dr. Lauren Cook joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, July 12, 2021
115. Transgender Athletes - A Scientific Look at Competitive Advantage
There has been debate in the sports world over the last month, as Laurel Hubbard was recently selected as the first transgender weightlifter to ever compete in the Olympics Games. On the one hand, this is a huge moment of progress for the LGBTQ+ community and reflects a society that is embracing more liberal views of gender. On the other hand, many question the fairness of Laurel Hubbard’s inclusion, citing concerns of inherent biological advantages that a trans female would have over a cis female in the context of athletics. So what are the actual physiological differences between cis and trans females? And are the differences significant enough that people’s concerns are warranted? Researcher Joanna Harper joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 06, 2021
114. The New Corporation
With more worldwide attention being brought to issues of global warming, poverty, and human rights violations over the last few decades, more light has been shed on the role that corporations play in our societies. And as large corporations have been called out for some of their questionable actions, it often seems as if they have risen to the challenge of becoming more socially responsible. The way many corporations now present themselves to the world can make it seem as if we have witnessed the dawn of a "new", more socially responsible corporation. But how much progress has truly been made? Joel Bakan, author of "The New Corporation", joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 29, 2021
113. The Puzzle of Left-Handedness
For much of human history, being left-handed has had a certain taboo associated with it. The word for left in Italian, for example, is “sinistra”, which shares roots with the word “sinister”, meaning “evil” in English. Such terminology reflects a long-held view in many societies that left-hand dominance is inferior to right-hand dominance. When you dig beneath the surface on this topic, however, there is much more to dissect than you initially might consider. Why are people still left-handed, when the majority of the population has evolved to be right-hand dominant? Is handedness an isolated biological feature, or is it associated with a complex of other traits in such individuals? Are left-handed people, in some ways, fundamentally different than right-handed people? David Wolman, author of "A Left-Hand Turn Around the World" joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 22, 2021
112. Covid Rehab - Beyond the Virus
A year into the pandemic, almost everyone knows someone who has tested positive for covid-19. While the emphasis has rightly focused on the mortality rate, there is another side of covid that is perhaps less talked about – recovery. While many do recover quickly, there is also a large proportion of people who are suffering from longer-term symptoms and require ongoing rehabilitation weeks to months after diagnosis. In fact, the morbidity of this virus will unfortunately affect the physical well-being of some of those affected for years to come. So how exactly is covid impacting the lives of those who have become sick from the virus? And how can society best support rehabilitation efforts? Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician Dr. Ali Rendely joins the podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 17, 2021
111. Israel-Palestine (Part 2)
This is the second of a two episode mini-series regarding the situation in Israel and Palestine. We continue to examine the historical roots of the conflict, picking up the story from the aftermath of the 1967 war up until the present day conflict. What attempts at peace have been sought over the past fifty years? What were the circumstances that led to this most recent outbreak of war? Tour guide and educator Yoav Biller joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, June 14, 2021
110. Israel-Palestine (Part 1)
With the conflict in Israel and Palestine reaching new heights over the past month, we explore the roots of the conflict in this two-part series. In this first episode, we examine the complicated history of the territories in question, from ancient times up until 1967. Tour guide and educator Yoav Biller shares perspectives from both the Israeli and Palestinian narratives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 08, 2021
109. Sexual Violence - The Complexities of Consent
In the wake of the Me Too Movement, much more needed attention in society has been focused on the issue of sexual violence. It goes without saying that sexual violence is a bad thing that society needs to address. But it is also a complicated topic. Sexual violence can take shape in many forms, some perhaps less obvious than others. People might have different versions of what constitutes sexual consent. People’s memories and interpretations regarding a sexual encounter may not always align. Tim Mousseau is an International Speaker on Sexual Violence Prevention and Masculinity. He joins the podcast to discuss his own experience as a survivor of sexual violence and to address the issue at large. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 02, 2021
Mysteries of the Cosmos (Repost)
The universe is so vast that it is quite literally impossible to comprehend. Yet with so much unknown, there is also so much room for hypothesizing and pontificating. What is the likelihood that other earth-like planets exist? What are the chances of extraterrestrial life? What is the practical purpose of studying the universe? Dr. John Johnson, a Harvard Professor of Astrophysics, has discovered over one hundred planets. He joins the podcast to share what we do know, what we don't know, and what we can postulate about the cosmos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 01, 2021
108. Breaking the Disney Spell
Many fairy tales capture people’s imagination from the time they are kids and then resonate in their hearts even into their adult years. When we think about fairy tales, most of us probably think of the Disney films that tell their stories. But many of these stories existed long before Walt Disney transformed them into films. Fairy Tales are not new. They have been told, albeit in various forms, for many centuries. So how has the fairy tale evolved over the years, both in terms of purpose and content? How did Disney’s new take on the fairy tale transform the genre, and what have been the positive impacts, but perhaps also negative ramifications that have resulted? Professor Jack Zipes, one of the world's foremost experts on fairy tales, joins Preconceived. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 25, 2021
107. Dinosaurs - Rise, Fall, and Legacy
From a young age, many kids become infatuated with dinosaurs. Perhaps it is the magnitude of their size. Maybe it is the fact that they existed so long ago that they can seem almost like mythical creatures. Dinosaurs existed over 100 million years ago, yet humans have only been around for about 200,000 years. That is simply just staggering to contemplate. So what do you really know about dinosaurs? What were dinosaurs actually like? How did they come to rise, and how did they eventually become extinct? And perhaps most importantly, what can we learn from the era of dinosaurs that can impact our lives on earth today? Kallie Moore, host of the popular PBS series Eons, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 18, 2021
106. If I Had a Million Dollars
“Money can’t buy you happiness” … so the adage goes. But deep down, most people would probably still prefer to have more money in their pockets if given the opportunity. And despite the notion that money perhaps does not equal happiness, many people do spend their lives with a primary goal of making more money. So what is the actual impact of money on happiness? Clay Cockrell, a psychotherapist who works with ultra-high-networth individuals, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 13, 2021
Wealthsimple - A New Way to Invest (Repost)
Mike Katchen, co-founder and CEO of Wealthsimple, explains how his company challenges the traditional paradigm of investing. When should we start investing? How much should we be investing? Mike also shares his perspectives on buying a home and explains how people tend to overestimate their risk tolerance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 11, 2021
105. After The Affair
Cheating. Unfaithfulness. Affairs. Understandably, these words are likely to conjure up negative feelings and associations. Cheating in a relationship is a massive breach of trust against a person to whom you pledged to be loyal. But has cheating perhaps been overly stigmatized, to the point where couples who might have been able to work through the aftermath of an affair have been preconditioned to believe that it just isn't possible? What are some common misconceptions about love that are exposed by an affair? And how does one come to forgive, if they wish to do so at all? Dr. Janis Spring is a nationally acclaimed expert on issues of trust, intimacy, and forgiveness, and the author of the book After The Affair. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 04, 2021
104. The Pet Paradox
The relationship between humans and non-human animals is a fascinating one. In particular, the pet-owner relationship begs many questions. The preconception is that it is totally normal that we cohabitate with other animals in our homes. People love their pets, and for the most part, we assume that our pets love us. But how normal really is the concept of having pets? And even if pets do add much value to humans' lives, is it really moral to keep pets, especially in the ways that we do? Professor Hal Herzog, expert in human-animal relationships, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 30, 2021
103. The Oscars - The Math Behind the Biggest Night in Hollywood
The Oscars is considered the most prestigious awards ceremony in the entertainment industry. There is a certain magic about the Academy Awards, where some of the greatest films and performances of all time have been recognized. Ben Zauzmer is the author of Oscarmetrics, a book that shares an in depth look at the predictive analytics of The Oscars over its 93 year history. What makes a movie most likely to win Best Picture? Which actors and actresses are most likely to walk away winners? And do the Oscars deserve to be as celebrated as they are? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 27, 2021
102. The Right to Die
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) includes physician-assisted death and euthanasia. On a previous episode of Preconceived, link below, we reviewed what exactly MAID entails and how it applies to a variety of diseases. On this episode, we shift the focus to medical conditions that have traditionally been excluded from MAID, including psychiatric illnesses and dementia. Psychiatrist Derryck Smith joins the podcast to examine this controversial topic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 20, 2021
101. Gangs
Gangs have a negative connotation associated with them. And given their association with violence and drugs, this is understandable and on many levels warranted. But is the primary problem really gangs? Or are gangs, violence and drugs just a symptom of the larger issues at play, such as poverty, underfunded and neglected communities and racial discrimination? Vidal Guzman is a former gang member in New York who was incarcerated for seven years. Now a community organizer, he joins the podcast to give an honest and unfiltered perspective on gang culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 13, 2021
100. Pencils for Kids - 'Do it Afraid'
For this 100th episode of Preconceived, Zale is joined by his first ever guest from episode one, his mother Robin. On the first episode of this series, Robin discussed the idea of jumping into the unknown and embracing the twists and turns that life has to offer. In this episode, she shares one of her biggest "jump in" experiences, when she founded the charitable organization Pencils for Kids. Pencils for Kids provides education, training, and income-generating opportunities for children and women in Niger, one of the poorest countries in Africa. Robin speaks about the many lessons learned as she embarked on an unexpected journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 06, 2021
99. Psychedelics - Moving Inward
When one used to think about psychedelics, the image that most likely came to mind was of someone tripping out during the height of 1960s counterculture. Yet what is less known is that prior to psychedelics’ association with counterculture, there was significant medical research being done regarding the clinical applications of many psychedelic substances. Most of this research, however, was discontinued when psychedelics became so associated with the rebelliousness of the 1960s. But as time has passed, and preconceptions have gradually been shed, the research into the medical uses of psychedelics has resumed, and some psychedelics are now legalized and being used clinically in North America. So why is the resurgence of psychedelic research so important, and how can psychedelics offer potentially life transforming experiences? Ronan Levy, co-founder of Field Trip Health, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 30, 2021
98. The Sexless Relationship
One of humans' most basic instincts is sexual desire. It is natural for humans to have sex, and most people do engage in sexual activity of some kind. Yet as commonplace as sex is, we often don’t talk about it openly. Even more, we tend to not talk about sex and how it often changes during the course of a relationship. It’s not uncommon for sex to be a primary focus of a romantic relationship in the early days of a couple, only to go by the wayside as time goes on. How does this happen? What is a “sexless relationship”? Dr. Jane Greer is a leading national expert in sex, love and relationships who has been a guest on Oprah and CNN. She joins the podcast to shed some of the misconceptions regarding sex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 25, 2021
97. The Crown - Harry and Meghan (Part 2)
On the last episode of Preconceived, we explored the history of the British Monarchy, the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II and analyzed how the Royal Family has adapted in modern times. On this sequel episode, royal commentator Ed Wang joins once more to weight in on the recent interview with Prince Harry and Princess Meghan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 23, 2021
96. The Crown - Legacy and Duty (Part 1)
There is something about royalty and the idea of “the crown” that captures the public’s attention and imagination. Yet while historically, monarchies used to run many countries and empires around the world, only several remain today, the most public of which, is the British royal monarchy. Yet while for some it ignites reverie and imagination, it is reasonable to ask what purpose the monarchy actually serves. Why is the British monarch so important, if it really is at all? Is the idea of a monarchy actually outdated, or does it still serve as some important symbol? Has the British monarchy sufficiently changed with the times, or has it become an outdated institution that will fall by the wayside in due time? Royal Commentator Ed Wang joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 19, 2021
Public Speaking - Fear, Failure and Authenticity (Repost)
Eric Silverberg and Eli Gladstone, founders of Speaker Labs, shed light on why it is ingrained into our DNA to fear public speaking and how we can look at public speaking "failures" in a more favourable light. Why is public speaking so important, and how do we decipher an authentic public speaker from a charismatic phoney? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 16, 2021
95. Beauty Pays - The Advantages of being Attractive
Humans are conditioned to be attracted to beautiful things and to beautiful people. We use phrases such as “don’t judge a book by its cover” and “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”. But are these adages really true? How real and significant is the effect of beauty on our perceptions of other people? Is beauty as subjective and malleable as we like to believe? How do our perceptions then influence our actual behaviours? Are beautiful people happier in general? And do beautiful people even make more money over the course of their lifetimes? Daniel Hamermesh, economist and author of the book "Beauty Pays", joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 11, 2021
94. The 'Get-To-Know-You' Questions (A Preconceived Moment)
When you meet someone, you probably take stock of their name, gender, age and occupation. These are some of the basic "get-to-know" questions. But how does knowledge of these demographics perhaps impact our perceptions of the people we meet? What types of stereotypes and assumptions do we subconsciously make about people before we have really even gotten to know them? Zale explores the "get-to-know-you" questions on this episode of A Preconceived Moment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 09, 2021
93. Indigenous Injustice
When our history books speak of North American history, it can almost read as if Canada and the United States did not exist until the Europeans settled the lands, while in reality, these lands were populated by indigenous peoples for centuries prior. With the arrival of the Europeans, there were tragic economic implications, massive losses of land and rapid spread of disease that had devastating effects on the indigenous peoples. Perhaps most tragic was the Indian residential schools policy and initiative that took indigenous children away from their families, where their culture was eradicated. Theodore Fontaine, a member and former Chief of the Sagkeeng Ojibway First Nation, joins the podcast to share his story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 02, 2021
92. Modern Family - The Impact on Kids
One of the society’s most basic fabrics has been the traditional family unit – that is, a mother, a father, and their biological children. But as society becomes more progressive and accepting of alternative family types, we have begun to see the emergence of a new type of family, the “modern family”. So as we embrace the range of newer and less traditional family units, it’s important for us to understand the impact they have on our lives, and the lives of the children who are being raised. How does the gender of a parent influence a child’s development? Is there benefit in still having a traditional “mother” and a traditional “father” figure in one’s life? Does a couple need to be “in love” in order to raise a child? Moreover, does one even need to be a part of a couple to raise a child, or has single parenting by choice shown to be effective? Professor Susan Golombok joins the podcast to share the main takeaways from her 40 years of research. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 23, 2021
91. The Fraternity Experience
The first fraternity in the United States was established in the 1700s. And while much has changed since then in regards to what a fraternity is and how it operates, tradition and reverence for past customs is also an important cornerstone of frat culture. But as our culture, social norms and perspectives regarding inclusivity continue to change rapidly, how have fraternities adjusted? What is the purpose of a fraternity? Why does someone decide to become a part of a fraternity? Are fraternities just for White privileged folk, or is that just an outdated misconception? While many cite their fraternity experiences as some of the most significant and monumental in their lives, others have certainly been traumatized by their pledging and hazing experiences. Dan Faill joins with the podcast to discuss his experience working with fraternities and sororities over the past 20 years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 19, 2021
Intellectual Disabilities (Repost)
What is it like to live with an intellectual disability? Jeffery Masci was deprived of oxygen during his birth, which led to lifelong challenges with intellectual disability. This manifested as slower information processing, as well as language and speech difficulties. While his condition has led to significant social and professional challenges, Jeffery has persevered to accomplish much during his life. He joins the podcast to discuss preconceptions regarding his disability and to challenge the notions that many people have regarding what is possible for him to achieve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 16, 2021
90. Death by Suicide
The decision to die by suicide is perhaps one of the most tragic possible outcomes of a person’s life. And while society at large has expanded its understanding and open mindedness regarding mental illness, stigma is certainly still quite high. Many still refer dismissively to suicide attempts as mere cries for help, and when someone does kill themselves, they are then often labelled as selfish and weak. Josh Rivedal has spoken about mental health and suicide across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia. He joins the podcast to share his personal story and family history of mental illness and the insights he has learned. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 09, 2021
89. 'Diamonds are Forever' - The Engagement Ring
"Diamonds are Forever" was a slogan used by De Beers to help turn the diamond into a symbol of everlasting love. It is now estimated that up to 80% of diamond rings have a diamond in them. In the first part of this episode, Zale tries to break down the very expensive custom of the "diamond ring proposal" and evaluate the logic behind it. In the second part of the episode, Professor Roy Maconachie joins the podcast to shed light on the ethics of the diamond industry itself and the injustices and hardships faced by those at the bottom of the supply chain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 02, 2021
88. Veganism - 'A Political Act of Refusal'
Walking through the meat aisle of a grocery store, do you ever wonder whether it is normal to eat animals? Even if you do think it is normal to eat animals, what about well-documented abuse of animals in the food industry? The veganism movement is associated with many preconceptions, both regarding the types of people who become vegans and the ideology itself. Dr. Corey Wrenn is a sociologist, social justice activist and a leading voice in the veganism movement, who joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 27, 2021
The Stripper Stigma (Repost)
The stripper industry is full of judgments and preconceptions. Strippers are often seen as taking an easy way out to make money, and the men who attend strip clubs are often considered shallow. But has society become overly judgmental of strippers and those who partake? Are people too quick to impose their version of morality on others? And do the positive contributions of the stripping world get overlooked? Paige Cole is an entrepreneur who recently went public about the fact that she is a stripper. She joins the podcast to shares her perspectives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, January 25, 2021
87. The Irony of Fiction (A Preconceived Moment)
Fictional characters from books, movies and television shows have some of the most resonating impacts on our lives. Yet is it not ironic that many of the characters we love so much, would likely be scorned by us if they existed in real life? This episode of A Preconceived Moment attempts to untangle some of that irony. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 19, 2021
86. 'Never Again' - Genocide in China
Ferkat Jawdat has been one of the world's most vocal advocates against the genocide of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang, China. His advocacy stems from the harrowing story of his own family being torn apart by the conflict. His mother has been trapped in China, unable to emigrate and join her family in the United States. She has been detained in concentration camps and prison alongside other persecuted Uighurs. Ferkat joins the podcast to share his story and the realities of the cultural genocide transpiring in China. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 12, 2021
85. The Social Dilemma
Do you remember life before social media? Sometimes it is tough to recall such a time when iPhones, Facebook and Instagram weren't a normal part of our daily lives. But as these platforms and media have become entrenched as staples in our everyday lives, it is increasingly important to pause and reflect on the impact they have on us. The recent Netflix docudrama, The Social Dilemma, explores our connection to social media and our electronic devices. Dr. Anna Lembke, a Stanford psychiatrist featured in the docudrama, joins Preconceived to discuss how social media has become an addiction that plagues many of us in society. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 05, 2021
84. Tipping
Tipping is so engrained in our cultural framework that we rarely take a step back to question how this custom developed and why we continue to practice it. Dr. William Michael Lynn is a professor in Hospitality department at Cornell University and is a world-renowned expert for his research on tipping. How did tipping come to be? Does better service actually lead to better tips? What are tipping preferences amongst servers, customers and restaurateurs? And ultimately, is our current system of tipping really the strategy that makes the most sense? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 29, 2020
Jump In! (Repost)
Does age really matter ? Is life so simple that it can be broken down into milestones typically associated with specific ages ? Zale breaks down the preconceptions of aging with his mother Robin Mednick, who has taken many twists and turns in her life, starting with an extensive education in law, economics and politics, but ultimately veering in completely different career paths. Robin challenges the notions that "younger is better" and urges us to continue to "Jump in" to new facets of life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 24, 2020
Life Reconceived (Repost)
Amit Gupta was a successful entrepreneur by all accounts, having started several very innovative and successful companies. But when he was suddenly diagnosed with leukemia at a young age, his whole life changed immediately. At one point being given less than 25% chance of surviving, Amit's story is a phenomenal recount of resilience, friendship and reflection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 22, 2020
83. Let Your Kids Run Wild!
One of the most unthinkable nightmares for a parent is that their child encounters danger, whether a serious injury, abducted by a stranger, or god forbid, dies. But does the incidence of these events warrant the degree of caution that many parents exercise when raising their kids? How common is it for tragedy to strike a child? And perhaps just as important, what detriment is being done to kids when they are overly supervised, monitored and coddled? Psychologist Dr. Marianna Brussoni joins the podcast to share her research and clinical experiences in this area. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 15, 2020
82. Alcohol and Addiction
Substance abuse and addiction are common yet often misunderstood. Many of us have an image in our heads when we think about about an alcoholic, yet that image often reflects only a narrow group of those who are suffering. So how do we reshape our view of addiction? What drives someone towards substance abuse? What are the fundamental principles of treatment recovery? is it possible for someone suffering from alcoholism to get back to a point where they can casually drink? Stuart joins the podcast to share his experience with alcohol addiction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 10, 2020
Filming in the Wild (Repost)
Mike Holding is a wildlife cinematographer who makes wildlife films in the heart of Africa’s wilderness. Based out of Botswana, he has collaborated on many wildlife documentaries including the critically acclaimed series Planet Earth. Mike joins the podcast to discuss common preconceptions regarding the wildlife filmmaking process, what he has learned from his time living amongst animals and how humans can become more connected to our natural environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 08, 2020
81. Jesus Christ
It is not hard to put a case together that Jesus Christ has been the most influential figure over the past two thousand years. And as the holiday season approaches, we are frequently reminded of the ever-present impact he has had on the world. But what do we actually know about the life of Jesus Christ? Why is he, and how did he become, such an influential figure? What was at the core of Jesus's message, and how did that diverge, if at all, from prior religious teachings? Archaeologist and Duke Professor of Religious Studies, Dr. Eric Meyers, joins the podcast to discuss the historical truths regarding Jesus Christ and to share what some of his archaeological finds tell us about his life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 04, 2020
80. A Piece of 'Non-Advice' (A Preconceived Moment)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 01, 2020
79. The 'Pro-Life' side of Abortion
The "pro-life" vs. "pro-choice" dilemma regarding abortion is the centre of much heated debate in the United States. On a previous episode of the podcast, we spoke with an obstetrician regarding abortion in Canada and the United States and examined the concept of reproductive justice and why it is important for a woman to have the right to choose. On this episode, we are joined by Annette Lancaster, who identifies as pro-life. She describes her experience working at Planned Parenthood and sheds light on why she and many others hold the stance that they do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 24, 2020
78. Mysteries of the Cosmos
The universe is so vast that it is quite literally impossible to comprehend. Yet with so much unknown, there is also so much room for hypothesizing and pontificating. What is the likelihood that other earth-like planets exist? What are the chances of extraterrestrial life? What is the practical purpose of studying the universe? Dr. John Johnson, a Harvard Professor of Astrophysics, has discovered over one hundred planets. He joins the podcast to share what we do know, what we don't know, and what we can postulate about the cosmos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 19, 2020
77. 'The Perfect Moment' (A Preconceived Moment)
In "A Preconceived Moment", Zale shares some brief reflections on the preconceptions that shape our every day thoughts. In the first episode of this mini-series, Zale reflects on the idealization of "moments" and how our romanticization over the past can be both beautiful and dangerous. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 17, 2020
76. Does Western Society Fail its Elders?
During the COVID pandemic, it has become even more imperative to examine how we treat our elder generations. In this episode, Zale is joined by geriatrician Dr. Samir Sinha, who sheds light on Western society's general treatment of our elderly and how our system has perhaps failed in many regards. What is the ideal living situation for people as they age? Retirement homes? Independent living with home care? Moving in with kids and grandkids? In the latter part of this episode, CEO of Parachute, Pamella Fuselli, joins the podcast to speak about the risk of falls as we age and how that is being influenced by COVID. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 10, 2020
75. The Transgender Experience
One of the most basic frameworks of society includes the traditionally binary approach to gender - male and female. But as more people have opened up about their transgender experiences, many of our preconceptions have come into question and greater consideration. Jeremy Wallace is an author and speaker who joins the podcast to discuss his transgender experience and to dissect some of the broader questions regarding gender and identity and how a new paradigm can be embraced by society. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 03, 2020
74. Infertility - The Miracle of Pregnancy
The conversation surrounding infertility is often shrouded in secrecy. Many prefer to keep their personal struggles quiet, to the point that they may not even share with family and close friends. Dr. Kimberly Liu is an Infertility Physician who joins the podcast to answer some of the questions that many might be too uncomfortable to ask. She explains recent trends in infertility and reviews the latest research into treatments such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg freezing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 29, 2020
Wine Deconstructed (Repost)
This episode from mid 2019 was a listener favourite. Have you ever sat down at a restaurant and felt out of sorts pretending to know which wine to order? What stories and backgrounds can be told in one bottle of wine? Sommelier Svetlana Atcheva of Pearl Morissette winery breaks down wine in a way that can help the novice appreciate it without feeling intimidated, while discussing new trends and perspectives in the global wine market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 27, 2020
73. In Prison for Murder - Part 2
After one of the most controversial murder trials in Canadian history, Rick Sauve was ultimately convicted of first degree murder. What followed for him was over seventeen years spent in prison, including one of Canada's most notorious prisons, Millhaven. In this second of two episodes with Rick, he opens up about his time in prison, the harsh realities of violence in the prison system, and how he has devoted much of his life to prison reform since his release over twenty years ago. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 20, 2020
72. On Trial for Murder - Part 1
A person's life can change in the blink of a eye. And for Rick Sauve, that life changing moment came on October 18, 1978, when a member of another bike club was shot and killed right in front of him. Rick, along with seven other members of the Satan's Choice biker club, was charged and put on trial for first degree murder. Now widely believed to have been innocent, Rick was nonetheless convicted of first degree murder and spent over seventeen years in high security prisons. In this first of two episodes, Rick joins the podcast to discuss the night that changed his life and the trial that determined his fate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 15, 2020
Toronto Mayor Crombie on Politics (Repost)
As election season in the United States is upon us, I am reposting this episode with the wise Mayor Crombie which sheds an honest and candid look on what it is like to be a politician. Former Toronto Mayor David Crombie was known as "The Tiny Perfect Mayor", and as the name reflects, he is one of Toronto's most beloved political figures from the last many decades. Mayor Crombie joins the podcast to share some thoughts on politics and to impart some wisdom on life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 13, 2020
71. Functional Genomics - My DNA Results
The personalization of medical treatments and preventions based on one's unique DNA will likely emerge as a mainstay in the field of medicine. In this episode, geneticist Dr. Mansoor Mohammed reveals Zale's DNA results. As a follow-up to a prior episode on functional genomics, Dr. Mohammed uses Zale's DNA results to exemplify what types of practical information can be derived from understanding one's own DNA. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 06, 2020
70. HIV - 'My Fabulous Disease'
Mark King was diagnosed with HIV in 1985. Before a treatment was developed in the nineties, he saw many close friends succumb to the disease, all the while struggling with the reality of his own diagnosis and that it could take his life at any time. So what is it like at the beginning of the HIV pandemic, when little was known of the disease other than its devastating effects? What kind of social division did HIV lead to, both within the gay community and society at large? And how does the HIV stigma still manifest today? Mark shares his insights on HIV over the past 35 years of living with it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 01, 2020
The Baby Decision (Repost)
This episode from over a year ago was one of our most popular, helping people navigate one of the most important decisions in their lives - whether or not to have kids! How does one make this ever important decision? And do enough people really approach this milestone as a conscious decision, or do their preconceptions of what a normal life entails get in the way? Merle Bombardieri, author of The Baby Decision, joins the podcast to offer her insights on the choice of having kids versus having a child-free life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 29, 2020
69. Children of Nazis
How would you cope if you suddenly found out that your parents were not who you thought they were? This was the scenario in which many Germans found themselves at the end of World War II, when news surfaced of the crimes against humanity that occurred during the Holocaust. Tania Crasnianski published "Children of Nazis", a book that takes an extensive look at the children of some of the most infamous Nazis and examines how they responded to the uncovering of the truth about their fathers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 22, 2020
68. The Sperminator - 70 Kids and Counting
Ari Nagel is perhaps the most famous sperm donor in the world. He has fathered seventy children through sperm donation and has more children on the way. Unlike traditional sperm donation, Ari does not charge any money for his sperm and is involved in varying degrees in the lives of his kids. So what prompted Ari to devote his life to this cause? How does he keep track of seventy kids? What problems does he foresee in the future, and how does he respond to some of the negative criticism he has gotten? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 15, 2020
67. Dreams
Harvard Professor and psychologist Dr. Deirdre Barrett is one of the most well-renowned dream experts in the world. She joins Zale to discuss all things dreams-related. What exactly is a dream? How, if at all, should we interpret our dreams? Is there a way to control the content of our dreams, and even use our dreams to solve problems in our waking lives? What is lucid dreaming, and why is there so much surrounding them? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 08, 2020
66. Unorthodox - Leaving Extremist Religion
Gene Steinberg was born and raised in a Jewish Hasidic community in New York. At age 28, he made the difficult decision to leave orthodox-Judaism to live a life more aligned with his personal values. Gene explains what it is like to live in an isolationist Hasidic community, how he came to leave this way of life and the challenges that he and many others face when they do so. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 01, 2020
65. Cancel Culture - The Dangers of Censorship
On July 7th, Harper's Magazine published "A Letter on Justice and Open Debate", which was signed by world-renowned public figures and thought leaders including Malcolm Gladwell, Noam Chomsky and J.K. Rowling. The letter warned of the dangers of cancel culture. Nadine Strossen, one of the co-authours of the letter, and a distinguished professor of New York Law School, joins the podcast to explore the messages of this letter. She expresses what prompted her to sign the letter (11:00) and explains why censorship of free speech is counterproductive (18:00). Zale and Nadine discuss how cancel culture intersects with the Black Lives Matter movement (21:30) and review several recent examples of cancel culture including the Justin Trudeau Blackface controversy (31:30), kneeling in the NFL (34:30), and J.K. Rowling's comments on transgenders (44:30). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 25, 2020
64. Magic
What exactly is magic? Is it simply a series of tricks rehearsed to perfection, or is there a more fantastical element to it? How do mentalism, precision and "deception" play into the world of magic? In a time when information is more accessible than ever, how do magicians feel about amateurs entering their world and performing tricks that took others years to study and master? Jonah Babins, co-founder of the Toronto Magic Company and host of the Discourse in Magic Podcast, joins Preconceived. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, August 17, 2020
63. Psychedelics - The Right to Consciousness
When many people think about psychedelic drugs, they think about hippies and counterculture in the 1960s. But research into the medical uses of LSD, psilocybin, ketamine and other psychedelics was well under way before the 1960s and actually became derailed by its association with counterculture. Only over the last couple of decades, has research resumed and subsequent legalization of some of these substances has come on the horizon. Why are these substances so important, both for treating mental illness but also for expanding the scope of consciousness for all human beings? International lawyer Robert Laurie joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 11, 2020
62. Last Will and Testament
We all know that we are going to die. But even with this knowledge, many of us still do not have last wills and testaments. So why is it so crucial that one does have a will, regardless of age and degree of assets? What are the consequences of not having a will, in terms of who gets your assets and who makes important decisions when you are gone? What are the implications for your children? What happens to your social media pages when you die? Daniel Goldgut, co-founder of Epilogue, joins the podcast to discuss these issues and to share how his new company makes the process of creating a will simpler and more accessible than traditional models. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 04, 2020
61. The Legacy of Rome - Lessons from Ancient History
When examining ancient history, it can be hard to decipher myth from reality. Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great have gained legendary status as some of history's most renowned figures; yet they also committed some of the most devastating war crimes and atrocities to date. The Roman version of sport was gladiators fighting to the death; but does that really mean they valued life so little? Why have some ancient civilizations become so celebrated, while others have all but vanished in the history books? And what can we learn from the many civilizations that have come and gone and how it relates to our world today? Historian Aaron Irvin, from Netflix's hit documentary series "Roman Empire", joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 28, 2020
60. Black Lives Matter in Canada
As the Black Lives Matter movement gains worldwide attention, it is important to take an honest look at the history of Black discrimination in our own country. While perhaps less known, Canada had its own dark history of slavery for 200 years. The social, economic and political inequalities have persisted in modern times. What are the main issues affecting racial inequality in Canada? What do White people just "not get" when it comes to racism? And how do we challenge some of the deeply embedded stereotypes regarding race that so many of us hold? Anthony Morgan, a lawyer and the manager of Confronting Anti-Black Racism Unit in Toronto, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, July 26, 2020
59. Poison in the Home - Keeping Your Kids Safe
In a collaboration with Parachute Canada, Preconceived explores why poisoning is a leading cause of accidental deaths in Canada. Which substances are the most common culprits of accidental poisoning of toddlers? How has the legalization of cannabis led to increased cases of poisoning in children? And what do we really need to know about carbon monoxide in order to keep our families safe at home? Pamela Fuselli, President and CEO of Parachute, joins the podcast to share the latest statistics and research. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 21, 2020
58. Selling Sex
Both the legality of prostitution and the ethics of sex work are highly debated topics worldwide. Is there anything inherently wrong with a person deciding to sell sex for money? Beyond this, what is the relationship between sex work, and the very different but often conflated topic of sex trafficking? Carly Kalish, a social worker and executive director of Victim Services of Durham Region, joins the podcast to discuss the stigmas regarding sex work and the dangers and misconceptions about trafficking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 14, 2020
57. The Holocaust - A Survivor's Insights
Nate Leipciger survived the Holocaust over 75 years ago. Like millions of others, Nate's world as he knew it was thrown into unimaginable upheaval. His mother and sister were murdered in Auschwitz, and he experienced traumas that are impossible for most of us to comprehend. Nate has since dedicated much of his life to Holocaust education and awareness and is one of the most preeminent Canadian speakers on the topic. Nate joins the podcast to share his insights on what happened so long ago and some lessons and perspectives that have guided him through his life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 07, 2020
56. Revolution - How to Influence Change
As Black Lives Matter takes the world by storm, one might wonder how the change being sought in this moment can be long-lasting? Dr. George Lawson, author of Anatomies of Revolution, takes both a historical and modern day lens to examine how revolutionary events and gradual evolutionary progress have proven to best manifest in change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 01, 2020
55. The Divorce Doctor
As common as divorce is, it is not devoid of stigma. Many view divorce as a failure of sorts, a failure for a couple to keep alive a marriage to which they were once so devoted. Dr. Elizabeth Cohen, commonly known as The Divorce Doctor, joins the podcast to break down the misconceptions about divorce. How can we re-frame our attitude towards divorce and view it for its positives? Can a marriage still be viewed as the right choice even if it eventually ends in divorce? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, June 29, 2020
54. Cryptocurrency - The Future of Money?
Money is the currency by which society runs. But our modern conception of money is certainly not reflective of how currency has operated throughout history and perhaps may be different to monetary constructs of the future. Cryptocurrency is a relatively new type of currency exchange that can seem quite complicated to those unfamiliar with it. This episode explores how cryptocurrency works, why it was developed and it what it might look like in the future. Pamela Draper, CEO of Bitvo, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 23, 2020
53. Criminal Law with Brian Greenspan
Brian Greenspan is one of the most well-respected criminal defence lawyers in Canada. He joins the podcast to share his stories and lessons from years of work in the criminal justice system. What is it like to defend someone who is guilty of murder? Do most murderers show remorse and regret? What are the biggest issues in the Canadian justice system, and how does it differ from that of the United States? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 16, 2020
52. Nonna Nighty's - Passions, Projects, Hobbies
When COVID-19 sent us into quarantine, Michael Nightingale's dental practice took a three month hiatus. So what did he do with his time? The only natural thing a dentist would do - he started a family run Italian style pasta business! A self-described "hobby nut", Michael shares his thoughts on hobbies and passion projects, and how such perspectives led him on this exciting three-month journey into the past making world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 10, 2020
51. Generational Divide - Boomers, Gen X and Millennials
Age is one of the primary ways by which society is divided. And with this division comes certain stereotypes about each generation. What historical events and cultural conditions account for why certain generations look at the world in the ways they do?And is the generational divide even as wide as we sometimes think it is? Generational Expert Meagan Johnson joins the podcast to help us better understand the context that shapes certain generational perspectives and to assist us in bridging the existing gaps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 02, 2020
50. Fifty Shades of Preconceived
For episode 50 of Preconceived, Zale relinquishes his hosting duties to become this week's guest. Zale reflects on the past year of the podcast and some of the biggest preconceptions that he has tried to better understand. How has his exploration into preconceptions changed his views of the world? Have any of the things he's learned influenced the way he lives his life? He is joined by Eric Silverberg and Eli Gladstone of Speaker Labs, who take on the role of co-hosts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 26, 2020
49. Capitalism: Fairness and Equal Opportunity?
Living in a capitalist society, it is easy to believe that it is the best and most fair economic system. We often hear messages that capitalism allows equal opportunity for all and that the rewards you reap in the system are directly correlated with the effort you put in. But is this truly the case? Or is this something we have convinced ourselves of in order to justify a system that may not be as fair as we'd like to think? Taylor Scollon, publisher of Passage and co-founder of North 99, joins the podcast to share his perspectives on capitalism and socialism. Publisher of Passage and co-founder of North 99 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 21, 2020
47. Virtual Healthcare
As healthcare continues to evolve, particularly in these times of COVID-19, many services that used to be strictly offered in person are now being offered virtually. Telemedicine is increasingly being used to minimize patient visits. Doctors are reviewing patient charts remotely and chatting with them over the phone. But how can doctors provide virtual healthcare without compromising the health of their patients? Can patients still feel assured that their concerns are being sufficiently addressed if the scope of virtual healthcare increases? Dr. Ian Plener, CEO of Diagnose at Home, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, May 18, 2020
46. The Era of Personalized Medicine
The field of medicine is rapidly changing. With the advancement of artificial intelligence, computers are often able to make faster and more accurate diagnoses than doctors. As DNA testing becomes more exact, the potential for more tailored and personalized treatments continues to grow. Kashif Khan, CEO of The DNA Company, joins the podcast to discuss how functional genomics is heralding an era of personalized medicine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 12, 2020
45. Wealthsimple: A New Way to Invest
Mike Katchen, co-founder and CEO of Wealthsimple, explains how his company challenges the traditional paradigm of investing. When should we start investing? How much should we be investing? Mike also shares his perspectives on buying a home and explains how people tend to overestimate their risk tolerance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 05, 2020
44. The Pickup Artist: Mystery from The Game
The Pickup Artist community is one that is easily misunderstood. At its core, pickup artistry involves techniques that help men to feel more confident in approaching women in whom they are romantically interested. As society becomes more digitalized and dating is increasingly initiated via apps and text messaging, many men feel unequipped in meeting women naturally and navigating the dating world. Mystery, featured in the generational book The Game, is one of the most famous master pickup artists in the world. He joins the podcast and shares how men can become more adept at approaching women and why this is so important. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 28, 2020
43. Helicopter Parents: How to Raise an Adult
When Julie Lythcott-Haims worked as Stanford Dean of Freshmen, she became concerned by the seemingly increasing lack of independence of her students. Whereas students once came to college prepared to take on the world, she and other faculty began to notice an increasing reliance on parents for even the simplest of tasks. In her bestselling book How To Raise An Adult, Julie explores how the new style of over-involved parenting developed, and more importantly, why it can have such detrimental long-term effects on the next generation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 21, 2020
42. Religion, Faith and God: Nobody Knows
Karen Silberman had a successful corporate career as an accountant and then a headhunter. But in her forties, she made an unexpected pivot in her life when she decided to become a Rabbi. During Rabbinical school, she was faced with one of the worst tragedies imaginable - the death of her son Scott. Karen joins the podcast to discuss her views on faith, religion and how she looks at the concept of God. She speaks about how her faith helped her through the most trying time of her life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 14, 2020
41. Cannabis: Turning a New Leaf
Cannabis was legalized in Canada over a year ago. But has public perception towards cannabis changed since its legalization? How is cannabis viewed in comparison to traditionally more accepted substances such as caffeine and alcohol? How has cannabis fared economically from a market perspective? Brett Chang, co-founder of Leaf Forward, joins the podcast to discuss the topic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 09, 2020
40. COVID-19: A Canadian Update
CBC's Dr. Brian Goldman joins the podcast to discuss the current state of COVID-19 in Canada. What is it like for healthcare workers on the front lines of hospitals? Where is Canada on the curve compared to other countries? What are the current recommendations regarding masks and social distancing? What can we expect to lie ahead? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 07, 2020
39. Influencers
Influencers have taken the worlds of social media and marketing by storm. As this new type of public figure emerges and continues to shape society, it is helpful for people to understand what exactly qualifies someone as an influencer. What types of value do influencers offer, and perhaps more important, how should consumers of social media decide who they allow to influence them? Tracy Komlos, founder and CEO of Pangea Dreams, joins the podcast. @tracykomlos www.pangeadreams.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 31, 2020
38. Unsettled: Working Remotely and Traveling Differently
As the coronavirus pandemic changes much about the world, two of the most affected domains in our lives have been work and travel. Yet as many shift to working remotely, the concept is not entirely new. "Digital nomads" have existed for some time and is a term that describes those who defy the conventions of a typical working life and have found a way to combine both work and travel on a daily basis. What can we learn from digital nomads as we shift to working remotely? And despite travel bans, what elements of travel and values we ascribe to it, can we still incorporate into our lives as we sit in quarantine? Jonathan Kalan, co-founder of the digital nomad travel company Unsettled, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 24, 2020
37. Most Likely to Succeed: Exploring Education Reform
Most of us assume that we couldn't have gotten to where we are today if it weren't for the rigorous education system we had endured. But what if that's not true? What if both the teaching methods and the content being taught are outdated? Ted Dintersmith, author of "What School Could Be" and executive producer of the documentary "Most Likely to Succeed", a feature selection at Sundance, joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 17, 2020
36. Love Drugs: the Chemical Future of Relationships
Can you imagine if there was a drug that helped you get over a tough breakup? What about medications to reinvigorate the romance in your relationship? Well, some of these drugs DO exist. Brian Earp, a Yale and Oxford ethicist and co-authour of the book "Love Drugs", joins the podcast to explore how commonly used drugs are already affecting our romantic relationships and how currently illicit drugs will likely be legalized in the future as an adjunct to couples counselling Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 12, 2020
35. Coronavirus: Fact and Fiction
Coronavirus has taken the world by storm, and amidst the important facts that have emerged, many preconceptions and misconceptions have also developed. Dr. Gerald Evans, Infectious Disease Professor at Queen's University, joins the podcast to explain just what we are dealing with in this pandemic, how it developed, what we can expect, and what steps we can all take to keep our communities healthy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 10, 2020
34. Indie Musicians - Talent, Risk and Fame
In the world of musicians, are the most famous ones the most talented? Is skill level truly what differentiates the mega pop star from the lesser known artist? And do you have to have a certain level of risk tolerance if deciding to pursue a career in this difficult to penetrate competitive industry? Tiz McNamara is an Irish singer-songwriter whose songs have racked up over eight million streams on Spotify. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 03, 2020
33. CTE - The Sports Concussion Problem
Contact sports are dangerous. But just how dangerous? Evidence regarding the dangers of repeated concussions has emerged over the last several decades that make one take pause as an athlete, a coach, a parent and a fan. CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) is a disease associated with repeated concussions, which is characterized by Alzheimer's-like changes in the brain. It can lead to severe mental health disorders include anxiety and depression, and there are cases of professional athletes who have committed suicide, thought to be attributable to the condition. Dr. Charles Tator, a neurosurgeon who has devoted much of his career to the study of CTE, joins the podcast to discuss the science of concussions, the current evidence regarding CTE, and the morality of participating in high contact sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, February 23, 2020
32. Home Schooling
Many parents might debate which school to send their kids, but there usually isn't a debate as to whether they should send their kids to a school at all. Josh Steimle is an entrepreneur, and he and his wife were dissatisfied with the state of the current education system. As opposed to just lamenting the present school system as an foregone reality, they decided to take action and home school their kids. He joins the podcast to discuss what home schooling is and why he believes this can be a more effective way for kids to learn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 11, 2020
31. Public Speaking: Fear, Failure and Authenticity
Eric Silverberg and Eli Gladstone, founders of Speaker Labs, shed light on why it is ingrained into our DNA to fear public speaking and how we can look at public speaking "failures" in a more favourable light. Why is public speaking so important, and how do we decipher an authentic public speaker from a charismatic phoney? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 04, 2020
30. Athletes - The Psychology of High Performance
What separates an elite athlete from others in their sport? Is there a psychological and physical recipe to becoming an athlete on the world stage? Which factors are associated with high performance and what characteristics can lead to an athlete's downfall? Beorn Nijenhuis was a Dutch Olympian speedskater who went on to study the neuroscience and psychology of high performance athletics. He joins the podcast to explore what contributes to the psyche of an elite athlete. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 28, 2020
29. What are Life Coaches?
The life coaching industry has really taken off over the past decade. Some people swear by having a life coach, while others don't actually understand what a life coach is. How is a life coach different from a therapist? What kinds of qualifications and certifications does a life coach have? Is there any difference between hiring a life coach and just seeking the advice of your trusted friends and family? Kiki Ura, life coach and founder of the Namaslay brand, joins the podcast to share her experiences and provide clarity to those who might be skeptical. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 21, 2020
28. Intellectual Disabilities
What is it like to live with an intellectual disability? Jeffery Masci was deprived of oxygen during his birth, which led to lifelong challenges with intellectual disability. This manifested as slower information processing, as well as language and speech difficulties. While his condition has led to significant social and professional challenges, Jeffery has persevered to accomplish much during his life. He joins the podcast to discuss preconceptions regarding his disability and to challenge the notions that many people have regarding what is possible for him to achieve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, January 13, 2020
27. Atomic Bomb in Hiroshima
Shinji Mikamo is a survivor of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. His daughter, psychologist Dr. Akiko Mikamo, joins the podcast to share her father's story of survival and resilience in the face of the most deadly bomb to ever be dropped on the planet. She speaks about some of the common historical misconceptions regarding the necessity of dropping the atomic bomb and shares her father's lessons of forgiveness and empathy that he has urged others to adopt throughout his life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 08, 2020
26. Hypnosis
What exactly is hypnosis? And how much do we truly understand about the subconscious and the thoughts that lurk deep in our minds? Hypnotist Luke Chao joins the podcast to discuss both the theories of hypnosis and the practical applications of hypnotherapy that are often used to help people quit smoking and conquer fears such as public speaking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sat, January 04, 2020
25. Filming in The Wild
Mike Holding is a wildlife cinematographer who makes wildlife films in the heart of Africa’s wilderness. Based out of Botswana, he has collaborated on many wildlife documentaries including the critically acclaimed series Planet Earth. Mike joins the podcast to discuss common preconceptions regarding the wildlife filmmaking process, what he has learned from his time living amongst animals and how humans can become more connected to our natural environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 10, 2019
24. Life Reconceived
Amit Gupta was a successful entrepreneur by all accounts, having started several very innovative and successful companies. But when he was suddenly diagnosed with leukemia at a young age, his whole life changed immediately. At one point being given less than 25% chance of surviving, Amit's story is a phenomenal recount of resilience, friendship and reflection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 03, 2019
23. Circumcision: A Moral Dilemma
Circumcision of newborns is a Jewish and Muslim tradition. Beyond that, demographic studies suggest that over 50% of males in the United States are circumcised. Yet ultimately, circumcision in the typical circumstance equates to performing an elective surgical procedure on a non-consenting newborn. How has the situation come to be as such? Yale and Harvard Ethicist Brian Earp joins the podcast to discuss the ethical considerations and preconceptions surrounding both male and female circumcision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 26, 2019
22. Ageism
When we meet somebody, we immediately apply certain stereotypes to try and “figure out” who they are. The first three things that we subconsciously assess in any encounter are a person’s age, gender and race. Yet while the anti-racism and anti-sexism movements are prevalent in society, the widespread issue of discrimination on the basis of age is rarely considered. Dr. Rachael Stone joins the podcast to explain how stereotypes develop, and in particular, how stereotyping based on age contributes to many false preconceptions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, November 18, 2019
21. Should Doctors Help Patients Die?
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) encompasses both euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. In Canada and many parts of the world, MAID is slowly becoming incorporated into medical practice, in order to help end the suffering of patients who no longer wish to live. But how will the medical field adjust to this change in paradigm, which is in many ways contrary to the traditional role that doctors have always had in saving lives, not ending them? Palliative Care physician Dr. Craig Goldie joins the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, November 11, 2019
20. Guns in America
It can be tough to understand how so many Americans are on the "pro-gun" side of the gun debate. For many, the issue seems simple - "guns are bad, and we should do everything we can to limit them". But what is the background of gun legislation? What is the often well-informed and intelligent perspective of many people who support gun rights yet also share the same goal of lowering crime rates in the United States? Trevor Burrus of the Cato Institute joins the podcast to shed some light on this complicated issue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 05, 2019
19. Do you have to love your job?
Society conditions us to have particular expectations regarding our careers. Many believe that our work must align with our passions. As the adage goes, if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life. But is that realistic? And should blending passion with your career always be the goal? Entrepreneur Seira Flores joins the podcast to challenge the preconceptions regarding what makes a fulfilling career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, October 28, 2019
18. The Death Penalty
The Death Penalty is the most severe sentence that can be passed down onto someone in the judicial system. John H. Blume of Cornell University is the Samuel F. Leibowitz Professor of Trial Techniques and the Director of the Cornell Death Penalty Project. He joins Zale to discuss the preconceptions regarding capital punishment and some of the disturbing realities of arbitrariness, unreliability and prejudice that are embedded in its sentencing patterns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, October 20, 2019
17. Yoga Beyond the Poses
Yoga teacher Karina Guthrie shares her insights on yoga and what it can unlock for those who practice it. How and why did yoga in Western culture develop differently from its origins in the East? When referring to concepts like "energy" and "soul", are these meant metaphorically, or as real entities? Karina is a yoga teacher and coordinator at The Practice in Bali, Indonesia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, October 07, 2019
16. Blindness: A perspective on disabilities
What is like to lose your vision? What is like to live with a disability? Taylor Katzel joins the podcast to discuss his experience losing his vision from a rare hereditary condition and what it has taught him about life and disabilities in general. Does he like when people ask him about his blindness, or can it sometimes come off as odd small talk? How has losing his sight affected the various domains of his life? And find out how losing one's vision can compound issues you probably wouldn't even have thought of, such as body dysmorphism and mental illness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, September 22, 2019
15. Advertising
We are constantly exposed to advertisements, whether we are always aware of it or not. Forbes 30-under-30 award-winning marketer Tyler Rochwerg joins the podcast to discuss which tools a marketer uses to captivate its target market, some of the ethical concerns surrounding advertisements, and some of the preconceptions about marketing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, September 09, 2019
14. Toronto Mayor Crombie on Politics
Former Toronto Mayor David Crombie was known as "The Tiny Perfect Mayor", and as the name reflects, he is one of Toronto's most beloved political figures from the last many decades. Mayor Crombie joins the podcast to share some thoughts on politics and to impart some wisdom on life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, August 26, 2019
13. The Baby Decision
How does one make the ever important decision of whether or not to have kids? And do enough people really approach this milestone as a conscious decision, or do their preconceptions of what a normal life entails get in the way? Merle Bombardieri, author of The Baby Decision, joins the podcast to offer her insights on the choice of having kids versus having a child-free life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, August 11, 2019
12. Wine Deconstructed
Have you ever sat down at a restaurant and felt out of sorts pretending to know which wine to order? What stories and backgrounds can be told in one bottle of wine? Sommelier Svetlana Atcheva of Pearl Morissette winery breaks down wine in a way that can help the novice appreciate it without feeling intimidated, while discussing new trends and perspectives in the global wine market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, July 22, 2019
11. Happiness Roundtable
Zale is joined again by Eli Gladstone and Eric Silverberg of Speaker Labs for a deep dive on happiness. What makes us happy and what are some of the biggest barriers to happiness? Has the importance of happiness been exaggerated in modern culture? Zale and the guests explore and debate their different perspectives on the topic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, July 08, 2019
10. Animal Intelligence
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, June 24, 2019
9. Empathy With Brian Goldman
Dr. Brian Goldman joins the podcast to discuss his latest book, "The Power of Kindness: Why Empathy is Essential in Everyday Life". Is empathy innate, or can it be learned? What are some common threads that can be found amongst the most empathic people in society? Dr. Goldman walks Zale through the journey of his worldwide search to better understand empathy and the concurrent exploration of his own inner kindness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, June 10, 2019
8. The Opioids Crisis
What has led to the escalating opioid crisis in North America? Why has opioid addiction increased in recent years? What are some of the best ways to combat the problem? How does mental illness factor into one's reliance on opioids? And why is society so judgmental of those who struggle with addiction? Dr. Sarah Elliott joins the podcast to discuss the history of opioids and what has led to the current opioid crisis. 1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, June 03, 2019
7. Immigration In America
In this episode from May of 2019, anthropologist Juanita Duque Serrano joins the podcast to discuss nationalism, borders and territories, and how these concepts inform the way we look at immigration. Leaning on her background in anthropology and on her own experience migrating to the United States from Colombia in 2002, Juanita delves into philosophical questions such as whether immigration is a right or a privilege, and what kind of assimilation is reasonable for a host country to expect of new immigrants. With a particular look at the situations in Europe and the United States, we question the ways we typically look at borders, countries and immigration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, May 06, 2019
6. Food Culture
Food photographer and co-founder of food company Fidel Gastro's, Kyla Zanardi joins the podcast to discuss her experiences in Toronto’s food industry. How has social media shaped the way we look at food? How does Kyla reconcile her involvement in foodie culture with the bigger issues of hunger and waste that face society? What are some of the challenges that she has experienced as a woman in the food industry, and what was it like to run a successful downtown Toronto restaurant with her partner and chef Matt Basile? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, April 22, 2019
5. Tattoos - a Timestamp
How does someone go from having no tattoos to a body covered in them? How do one's views on living in the moment, permanence and preoccupation with others' perceptions factor into one's decision to get tattoos? Oren Jourdan sits down with Zale to discuss his transformation from no tattoos to many tattoos and explains why he is just getting started! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 11, 2019
4. Nothing Matters
In the grand scheme of the universe, it can be tough to truly ascribe meaningful value to the brief and minuscule existence of our lives on earth. This can be a terrifying prospect or potentially a liberating one. Do any of our experiences in life truly hold any inherent meaning ? And if not, how do we decide to give our lives a meaning of our own choosing? Zale is joined by the owners of Speaker Labs to delve into the perplexing yet liberating philosophy on life that Nothing Matters. 325450 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, March 25, 2019
3. Fictional Characters: what they can teach us
Why is it that certain fictional characters resonate so much with the public at large ? What is it that we learn from our favourite television and movie characters that we find so compelling ? Would we truly cherish our favourite characters on Game of Thrones if they were real people in our lives? How would we connect with compelling but flawed characters such as Mad Men's Don Draper if they de-fictionalized? Why do we root for a television character's redemption but have trouble giving the benefit of the doubt to those closest to us? Zale and Mike break down some of our most beloved characters and question why we often gravitate towards deeply flawed characters we would be unlikely to befriend if they were real people in our lives. 325450. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 21, 2019
2. Abortion: Reproductive Justice
People typically have strong views on abortion. What informs these views ? Is the Pro choice vs. Pro life argument an overly simplistic framework of dissecting the issue ? An obstetrician who specializes in abortion services joins the podcast to share her insights on reproductive justice and to inform our listeners regarding the medicine, legislation and ethics regarding abortion. 325450 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 05, 2019
1. Jump In!
Does age really matter ? Is life so simple that it can be broken down into milestones typically associated with specific ages ? Zale breaks down the preconceptions of aging with his mother Robin Mednick, who has taken many twists and turns in her life, starting with an extensive education in law, economics and politics, but ultimately veering in completely different career paths. Robin challenges the notions that "younger is better" and urges us to continue to "Jump in" to new facets of life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, February 25, 2019
Preconceived
Welcome to Preconceived, a podcast where we examine the preconceptions that shape how we view the world and challenge the paradigms by which we have been conditioned to live our lives. We explore philosophical themes such as aging and the pursuit of happiness, examine practical issues such as mental illness and our political and economic institutions, and dive into more seemingly simple topics, such as how someone winds up with a body full of tattoos. The show is hosted by ophthalmologist Zale Mednick. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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