No Stupid Questions 43. What Do We Really Learn From Failure?
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Oct 12, 2025 Discover the lessons learned from failure, as hosts dive into the challenges behind a live show's cancellation. They discuss the importance of knowing when to stop and how to balance risky and safe projects. Teasing takes center stage, exploring its social functions and dynamics in relationships, especially how status shapes interactions. The hosts analyze the nuances of teasing in romantic contexts and the complications of doing it over video calls. Tune in for insights on how humor can connect us, even amidst discomfort!
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Leftovers That Sparked A Partnership
- Stephen remembers Angela showing up to a San Francisco taping carrying stinky, greasy Vietnamese leftovers that endeared her to him.
- That backstage moment convinced him she would make a great podcast co-host.
Live Versus Recorded Tradeoffs
- Stephen realized live shows and radio/podcasts require different skills and can't easily be both excellent at once.
- He found the tradeoffs made sustaining the live show incompatible with his other priorities.
A Useful Taxonomy For Failure
- Amy Edmondson's failure taxonomy helps dissect why projects fail beyond mere inability.
- Stephen cites lack of ability, process inadequacy, task challenge and process complexity as relevant categories.