Welcome to our learning‑led discussion series, where William Mankelow, Stuart “The Wildman” Mabbutt, and you—the audience—shape the conversation together.

Your questions arrive unopened, and we explore them in real time, discovering the topic at the same moment you do.

We don’t present ourselves as definitive authorities. Instead, we approach each question as curious learners, ready to examine ideas from fresh angles, embrace uncertainty, and see where thoughtful dialogue can take us.

Kholoud, a Palestinian Refugee living in Long Eaton, England sets the initial question for discussion- “Does gun ownership lead to mass shootings and does religion cause wars?”

The discussion explores how access to weapons and human decision‑making interact in acts of violence. One view suggests that widespread gun availability increases the potential for mass harm, while another emphasizes that individuals ultimately choose whether to use a weapon. 

The conversation also examines religion’s role in conflict: some argue it is often used as a justification rather than a true cause, while others highlight that many faiths promote peace at their core. 

Both co-hosts reflect on how cultural influences, personal responsibility, and societal conditions shape behaviour, noting that tools or beliefs become harmful only when people decide to use them in that way.

Andrew, from Barrow, Alaska, USA asks the next question - “Do you think it's worthwhile engaging with that which we don’t like?”

The conversation explores how personal biases shape our preferences and how engaging with unfamiliar or initially disliked ideas can deepen understanding. One perspective highlights that everyone carries assumptions, yet genuine openness can reveal unexpected appreciation. Another view emphasizes the value of examining our dislikes rather than avoiding them, noting that automatic reactions often mask the real reasons behind our judgments. 

By analysing media, performances, or viewpoints he finds unappealing, one co-host discovers that his reactions often stem from perceived inauthenticity rather than disagreement alone. Examples include reassessing a music genre after giving it proper attention, or recognising why certain styles—such as highly improvised music—do not resonate personally. 

The discussion concludes with the idea that exploring what we think we dislike is an important part of learning, encouraging listeners to stay curious even when something doesn’t immediately appeal to them.

What do you make of this discussion? Do you have a question that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by sending an email to ⁠[email protected]

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This podcast's overall themes are nature, philosophy, climate, the human condition, sustainability, and social justice. 

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