Preconceived
Subscribed: 508Played: 30,306
Subscribe
© Zale Mednick
Description
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 myths, confronting biases, or simply indulging in the joy of learning something new, Preconceived is more than just a podcast; it's an invitation to view the world through a different lens.
Join Zale Mednick every week on Preconceived for enlightening conversations that promise to inspire, inform, and intrigue. Perfect for the inquisitive mind, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone eager to challenge their understanding of the world and embrace the complexity and beauty of human existence.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
340 Episodes
Reverse
In this episode, Zale is joined by Sam Kelly, author of 'Human History on Drugs', to explore the complex morality surrounding drug use throughout history. They discuss the historical context of drug perception, the stigmatization of drug use, and the philosophical views on drugs. The conversation delves into notable historical figures such as Freud, Marcus Aurelius, Shakespeare, and Alexander the Great, examining their relationships with drugs and how these experiences shaped their legacies. Human History on Drugs - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/747457/human-history-on-drugs-by-sam-kelly/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Zale engages with social psychologist Pamela Regan to explore the complexities of modern love, including the romantic ideal, different love styles, and the impact of societal expectations on relationships. They discuss the validity of arranged marriages, the burden of expecting one partner to fulfill all emotional needs, and the importance of recognizing the fluctuations in love and commitment over time. The conversation emphasizes that love is multifaceted and can take many forms, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique experiences in love.Learn more about Pamela Regan at https://www.calstatela.edu/faculty/dr-pamela-reganShownotes00:00The Evolution of Love and Marriage01:24Modern Love: A Complex Landscape02:41The Many Faces of Love05:20Passionate vs. Companionate Love08:30Expectations in Romantic Relationships11:33The Burden of One Partner14:15Finding Balance in Love23:49Navigating Modern Relationships and Boundaries25:58Understanding Arranged Marriages in Contemporary Society31:15Findings on Commitment and Satisfaction in Marriages35:38The Role of Social Influence in Finding Love41:50Defining Love: Beyond Feelings to Choices and Actions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Preconceived, Zale delves into the enduring fascination with the Titanic disaster, exploring themes of hubris, human nature, and historical myth-making. Joined by Professor Stephanie Barczewski, a specialist in modern British history, they unravel the complex narratives surrounding the Titanic's ill-fated voyage, examining the decisions made, the societal norms of the time, and the compelling stories of heroism and tragedy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we explore the multifaceted impact of technology on modern parenting. Our discussion covers a range of topics, including the challenges of limiting technology use, which tech platforms are less harmful than others, and which facets of technology are most detrimental to childhood development. Tune in for practical advice, real-life stories, and a thoughtful examination of how technology is influencing the way we raise our children. Katy Albert joins the podcast. Katy Albert's Website - https://anchoredfamilies.ca/Sisters 2 Moms Podcasts - https://anchoredfamilies.ca/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 Websitehttps://www.johnstackhouse.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Preconceived, Zale discusses the phenomenon of Past Life Memories (PLMs) with Marietta Pehlivanova, a research assistant professor at the University of Virginia's Division of Perceptual Studies. The conversation primarily focuses on children who recount having memories of past lives. Marietta explains the research approaches, highlights compelling cases, and discusses the challenges of verifying these memories. The episode delves into specific cases, such as that of a young boy with detailed and verifiable memories of a past life. Are such memories real, and if so, what do they reveal about alternate realities and past lives? Marietta Pehlivanova - https://med.virginia.edu/perceptual-studies/dops-staff/marieta-pehlivanova/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this second episode of the two-part mini-series on the war in Gaza, Jeffrey Herf shares his point of view on why Israel is NOT committing genocide in Gaza. He provides a historical definition of genocide, contrasting it with the current situation, which he argues is a war rather than an act of genocide. Herf emphasizes the role of Hamas as the aggressor and the complexities of civilian casualties in warfare. He also addresses the moral dilemmas faced by Israel and the need for a stable post-war governance in Gaza. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this two part mini-series of Preconceived, we explore the question of whether or not Israel's war with Gaza qualifies as a genocide. We delve into the complex and sensitive topic of genocide, focusing on the role of intent and context in its definition. Joined by Professor Omer Bartov, we explore the historical and legal frameworks that shape our understanding of genocide, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. Bartov, an Israeli historian and former IDF member, shares insights from his recent New York Times article, arguing that the situation in Gaza meets the criteria for genocide. We discuss the importance of intent in distinguishing genocide from other war crimes and the challenges of applying these definitions to real-world conflicts. In the second part of this mini-series, to be published next week, another genocide scholar joins the podcast to explain why he does not believe this war qualifies as a genocide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 @toddspopshopGet 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.
In this episode of Preconceived, we tackle the complex issues surrounding immigration and multiculturalism. Join us as we explore the delicate balance between embracing diversity and addressing the legitimate concerns that arise from rapid cultural shifts. With insights from Professor Henk de Berg, we delve into how these dynamics contribute to the rise of right-wing populism across the globe. Tune in for a nuanced discussion on the challenges and opportunities of living in an increasingly interconnected world.Check out Henk de Berg's latest book, 'Trump and Hitler: A Comparative Study in Lying' at https://www.amazon.ca/Trump-Hitler-Comparative-Study-Lying/dp/3031518322. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode delves into the complexities of alcohol addiction with Dr. Anna Lemke, a renowned expert in addiction medicine. This episode explores the traditional AA model, the concept of abstinence, and emerging treatment paradigms that challenge the status quo. Discover the nuances of addiction, the role of spirituality in recovery, and the potential for moderation in treatment.Anna Lembke's book Dopamine Nation - https://www.amazon.ca/Dopamine-Nation-Finding-Balance-Indulgence/dp/152474672X Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Zale discusses the evolution of media with Kim Kierans, focusing on the decline of legacy media and the rise of new media platforms. They explore the implications of this shift, including the crisis in local news, the importance of transparency in journalism, and the challenges of navigating information in the digital age. The conversation emphasizes the need for media literacy and the role of journalism in democracy, while also considering the future of news organizations in a changing landscape.Kim's Latest Book - https://press.ucalgary.ca/books/9781773855356/Time Stamps00:00 The Shift from Legacy Media to New Media08:09 The Crisis of Local News17:22 The Role of Opinion in Modern Journalism20:59 The Role of Newspapers in Community Awareness21:55 Investigative Journalism: Challenges and Solutions24:32 The Importance of Transparency in Media26:42 Navigating Media Bias and News Literacy28:07 The Value of Professional Journalism33:48 The Future of Legacy Media37:17 Personal Media Consumption Habits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is a movement aimed at promoting diversity on college campuses and a variety of institutions. On the surface, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are all positive words; for most people at least, promoting these values is a good thing. But in the particular context of the DEI movement, there are many who do express concerns. Does DEI place too great a premium on identity over ideas? Are certain core cultural values de-prioritized in the name of equality? Is DEI too nihilist a view in the way we look at the world and the way it influences policies? Stefan Padfield joins the podcast. Free Enterprise Project - https://nationalcenter.org/programs/free-enterprise-project/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In increasing trend is emerging of kids deciding to cut their parents off completely. What is driving the younger generations to become estranged from their parents? Are their reasons justified as a step to better 'self-care', or does it reflect a certain selfishness and disloyalty? How can parents respond when their child decides to excommunicate them? Psychologist Joshua Coleman joins the podcast. Dr. Joshua Coleman - https://www.drjoshuacoleman.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
With the plethora of dating apps that have arrived over the last decade, one would think that it's easier to date than ever. Yet for some reason, dating has been down. Data has shown that people are finding it tougher than ever to find a romantic partner. So why is this the case? Is it a change in the way we view love and relationships? Have the apps paradoxically led to a reduction in dating? Kelsey Eyre Hammond joins the podcast. American Enterprise Institute - Americansurveycenter.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For most of the Western world, the main headline of the war in Ukraine has been something along the lines of ‘Russia invades Ukraine, Putin is a war criminal, and Ukraine has been the victim of a terrible, nonsensical war’. And this may very well be accurate. But if you spoke to someone in Russia, what would they say about the war? How would Putin justify this war against Ukraine, and how would the average Russian citizen explain the necessity of defeating Ukraine? Maria Popova joins the podcast. Maria Popova's latest book on Russia and Ukraine - https://www.amazon.ca/Russia-Ukraine-Entangled-Histories-Diverging/dp/1509557377 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Climbing Mount Everest is one of the most extreme adventures on which a human can embark. The highest peak in the world, there is a certain mystique and allure associated with the mountain. Some seek the summit for a love of climbing, and others climb it for the glory and fame. Is there a 'right' reason for someone to climb Everest? Why is Everest so challenging to climb? What can the mountain reveal about the human condition? And how has the rise of 'luxury climbing' changed the Everest landscape? Alan Arnette, seasoned climber and an Everest Summit Coach, joins the podcast.Learn more about Alan Arnette at https://www.alanarnette.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Most of us do try and eat healthy in some capacity. The majority of us are at least conscious of the fact that what we put in our bodies deeply shapes our present and future health. But even with a certain degree of health awareness, are we still in many regards doomed? Do the basic food systems and manufacturing processes that are in place in North America inherently lead to foods that are not only unhealthy, but perhaps harmful? Food Safety epert Darin Detwiler joins the podcast. Learn more about Darin Detwiler at https://cps.northeastern.edu/faculty/darin-detwiler/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States
With respects to birth control topic. The book ‘Brave New World’
Terrible sound quality
There's nothing quite like spending some quality time with a close friend - especially when there's some friendly competition involved! That's why playing cookie clicker with a friend can be the perfect way to enjoy some happy moments together. Play game at: https://cookieclicker3.com
“Great musicianship, you play with confidence and vocally you have a really good tone.” https://www.foragentsonly.me/
loved listening to this episode!
difficult but important topic!