All Episodes

October 3, 2021 45 mins

With polarization and deeply entrenched ideology threatening our ability to truly listen to one another, is civil discourse dead? 

Our guest John Donvan isn’t ready to admit defeat just yet. In our latest episode, the host and moderator of the Intelligence Squared U.S. debate series shares how he’s seen firsthand how reasoned and constructive discourse can make us all smarter. 

By focusing on facts, reason, and a respect of other viewpoints, you not only become a better debater, but you may even persuade the most intractable listeners to your way of thinking.

GUEST BIO:

GUEST BIO:

Since 2008, John Donvan has moderated the Intelligence Squared U.S. debate series, which was launched in 2006 with the intent of restoring critical thinking and civility in public discourse through thought-provoking conversations about a wide variety of subjects. Donvan is a veteran network correspondent for ABC, CNN, and PBS, having served in multiple overseas assignments in Moscow, Amman, Jerusalem, and London. He’s a four-time Emmy Award winner, as well as a bestselling author. His 2016 book, In a Different Key: The Story of Autism, who he co-authored with Caren Zucker, was a finalist for the 2017 Pulitzer Prize.

LINKS:
Debates
Intelligence Squared U.S.You can view previous debates on the website.
“Genetically Modify Food” debate, Dec. 3, 2014 

Apps
Intelligence Squared U.S. app on Google Play 
Intelligence Squared U.S. app on App Store

Podcasts:
IQ2US Debates
YouTube Channel

 Follow us on Twitter @speakgoodpod
Check out our blog
Got an episode idea?

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

The Joe Rogan Experience

The Joe Rogan Experience

The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.

Stuff You Should Know

Stuff You Should Know

If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.