"@ <a href=""https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIOGUYOPAsA&amp;t=1h05m00s"">1:05:00</a>  Absolutely- when having an emotionally-charged podcast with someone regarding a controversial topic", the first step is to methodically probe the guest with the goal to fully understand their position and reasoning. This is so important. It keeps the defense mechanisms in check and provides the guest with confidence that their opinion/position is important. Very few people use such a sophisticated, constructive approach whether it's in an interview or interpersonal relationship. I would speculate the divorce rate and probably of wars would both decline substantially if people would just adopt this approach. After allowing the guest to fully articulate their position in a way that most listeners can understand, the next step (if needed) is to ask the guest if they would entertain alternate perceptions/opinions that may be in stark contrast. 95% of the time the guest will be receptive since their defenses are likely inactive thanks to step #1. Afterwards, their should be fertile ground for a constructive, respectful conversation although step #1 may need to be re-used on multiple occasions depending on the gap between opposing perceptions. Humans have evolved in so many ways," but we sure haven't moved communication techniques out of the reptilian portion of our brains.  And @ <a href=""https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIOGUYOPAsA&amp;t=1h25m00s"">1:25:00</a> Lex asks the question (paraphrased)", "Am I being nieve in trusting (e.g.) big pharmacautical companies that have provided important theraputic drugs whereas other (e.g., Joe Rogan) have serious concerns about these companies?" Here's my answer, Lex, and it's a bit simplistic but IMO very credible: Basically, a persons general level of trust in established institutions, organizations and professionals who have a long history of providing beneficial products and services to the public is in direct proportion to that persons level of inner fear. And the fear has usually been instilled at a much younger age, usually via poor parenting. I'd be interested to know more about Joe's upbringing. This is psychology 101 and we see countless examples during these times of ever-increasingly complex events and advances. There's a widening gap between what is known in science and technoly and what the average person understands = increasing fear, both on an individual and collective basis. Entities such as FOX have effectively capitalized on this rapidly-growing level of fear in many people.,(reply>), Hit me up for more info ⬆️📩