Why I wont debate with you on your podcast
Philippe Beaudoin · November 30, 2025
Sometimes I go on podcasts. Sometimes I say things. Sometimes theses things rub people off the wrong way…
And when they’re annoyed, some of these people do what people do in this day and age: they comment under a social publication.
Most of the time they do it kindly. I suppose because my tone invites that kind of response. Sometimes, however, they bark.
Not always loudly. Not necessarily ALL CAPS barking, but if you listen carefully you’ll hear it in the subtle choice of words. Words that don’t show curiosity, but an opinion that they want to continue holding.
It’s not “I’m interested in understanding your point of view better, Phil, and offering mine in return.”
It’s: I disagree and I want to debate it with you on my podcast. I disagree and I want to tell the world “why” while you sit front of me.
I don’t want to sit in front of you my friend. I am not here to convince you that my opinion is right, I’m here to better understand how everything works. From quantum physics to human society. And I’ve learned the best way to do that is to sit with someone who approaches difficult questions with genuine curiosity.
I suspect this will get me labeled as “lacking courage”. I’ll wear that label if you want to stick it to me. But I’ll wear it with a smile, going through life with more and more of these conversations that make me nod with a “Ahah! I understand better now! Thanks for taking the time to explain it kindly my friend!”
And you, dear commenter, if at some point you feel the pain that hides behind your barking, then you can try to reach out again. You can try kinder words and less labels. I might just answer: “Yes! I’ll be happy to go discuss this on your podcast, I am genuinely curious about your views.”
Until then: 💙