Your questions, answered.

What is Chewing Gum?

Chewing Gum is a podcast where the host engages in genuine, open dialogue with individuals who will often harbour contrasting views. The pivotal idea is for both parties to relinquish any need to approach the discussion with apprehension and engage openly, to explain the how and why behind their perspectives. Any topics are welcome, no matter how controversial. Our ethos is that nobody should be afraid of committing to any viewpoint, but equally, no viewpoint is immune to criticism.

The mission.

Chewing Gum is fundamentally built upon the principle of constructive dialogue - conversations where participants with differing perspectives seek mutual understanding without abandoning their core beliefs - to facilitate living, learning, and working together. This approach is highly effective for addressing complex, critical issues that typically create division, much of which is present in today's polarised socio-political landscape.

Sadly, nowadays, modern public discourse is nothing more than a pejorative test of will, with both sides wishing nothing more than a total subjugation of the other and asserting their perspectives as dominant and absolute. Our aim, first and foremost, is to do away with such hostile practices and cultivate discussion that aims for, in the ideal case, both sides learning and more importantly, understanding the opposing perspectives. Even if no agreement is reached, everyone can walk away with something to reflect upon.

Our discussions operate on reciprocal understanding: participants actively work to comprehend opposing views, assured that the same level of intellectual effort is being directed toward their own position. The outcome is often a clearer perspective, defined differences, uncovered shared values, or the creation of avenues for collaboration that were previously inaccessible.

Indirectly, but alongside the above, this channel may be the beginning of the end of the age of contempt that has seen itself run rife throughout the digital landscape. The hope is that, one day, we will return to the days wherein we can sit down and engage with each other without forgetting that, on other side of the discussion, is another human being.

The methodology.

This is quite simple; two people, sitting together, chewing gum just like friends would do. Discussions are governed by strict rules against interruption or personal attacks. The focus is on respectful, sustained inquiry into the roots of belief. We talk, we exchange ideas, we showcase our experiences and understanding that took us to where we are today, we agree, we disagree, last but not least, we walk away as friends, to perhaps one day sit down and talk once again.

There is no concrete selection process for those wishing to participate. People are welcome to contact us and offer to discuss any topic that they feel should be brought to light, no matter how controversial.

Please note, that we cannot hope to respond to everyone. We do, however, appreciate any interest you have in the channel, and remind you not to be disheartened if we do not get back to you immediately.

The logistics.

Videos will be released on average once a month, in line with the free time available to our team. Please note that this initiative is solely done in our spare time, with no financial sponsor of any sort. Any donations, sharing us on social media or even sending us any positive words are greatly appreciated - knowing that our work is making a difference is always welcome.