The Gadfly Talks

Welcome to The Gadfly Talks, one woman’s answer to a world of soundbites and clapbacks. It’s inspired by Socratic dialogue, which involves cooperative, open-ended exploration rather than defensive one-upmanship or intellectual dominance.  This type of dialogue is portrayed in Plato’s Symposium by the temple priestess and mystic, Diotima of Mantinea, as she guides Socrates to insight about the nature of love (or eros, for my fellow Greek nerds).   The goal of Socratic dialogue is to temporarily suspend our beliefs, to allow space to explore ideas relationally and arrive at deep, collective insight — together. Refreshing, right? Think of it as making love to an idea rather than, well, the alternative. This dialectical approach goes beyond black-and-white, zero-sum thinking to embrace complexity, paradox, and mystery. It helps us resolve ideological tension and factionalism not with concrete answers, but cooperative inquiry and the ability to sit with the unknown. It asserts that wisdom begins with humility — not credentials— and culminates in wonder. Though some of the people I interview will be considered experts in their fields, I don't present them as sole purveyors of truth. Instead, I invite a variety perspectives to paint a kaleidoscopic picture of each topic we'll cover, one that's textured, nuanced. and even contradictory at times. How can this approach shift our perspective on the prevailing narratives of our time? What might happen if we ask more questions instead of defending assertions? All I know is, I’m eager to find out. I don’t offer medical advice or treatment, and this podcast shouldn’t replace it. But I do believe that healing happens in community. Maybe, just maybe, these talks can be a part of your healing, too.  Welcome to the podcast. The examined life starts here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.