No Stupid Questions
Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher
Research psychologist Angela Duckworth (author of "Grit") and tech and sports executive Mike Maughan really like to ask people questions, and they believe there’s no such thing as a stupid one. So they have a podcast where they can ask each other as many “stupid questions” as they want. New episodes each week. "No Stupid Questions" is a production of the Freakonomics Radio Network.
To get every show in the Freakonomics Radio Network without ads and a monthly bonus episode of Freakonomics Radio, start a free trial for SiriusXM Podcasts+ on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
To get every show in the Freakonomics Radio Network without ads and a monthly bonus episode of Freakonomics Radio, start a free trial for SiriusXM Podcasts+ on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
Episodes
Mentioned books
17 snips
Jan 15, 2023 • 31min
130. Why Is It So Hard to Resist Temptation?
Explore the intricate nature of self-control and its inconsistencies across different areas of life. Delve into the seven deadly sins and how they shape our impulses and decisions. Discover fun facts about animal speeds and the origins of the word 'character.' Hear personal stories revealing the ethical dilemmas people face in their pursuit of success. Plus, engage with listeners as they brainstorm ideas for an upcoming series on the seven deadly sins and preview the next discussion on the science of crying.
10 snips
Jan 8, 2023 • 40min
129. Why Do We Cheat, and Why Shouldn’t We?
The podcast dives into the intriguing psychology of cheating, examining motivations and justifications in both academic and social contexts. It tackles the ethical dilemmas of dishonesty, especially in a tech-driven world. The discussion extends to online trends that glamorize immoral behavior, prompting listeners to rethink what's harmless fun. Exploring societal implications and personal integrity reveals the complexities of cheating, while listener insights on focus and productivity highlight the importance of environment in shaping behavior.
20 snips
Jan 1, 2023 • 33min
What’s So Great About Retirement? (Ep. 87 Replay)
The hosts dive into the emotional landscape of retirement, exploring its excitement and anxieties. They reflect on the surge in retirements prompted by the pandemic and discuss how these transitions impact identity. A proactive mindset is emphasized, promoting engagement in meaningful activities. Psychological factors are crucial, with the importance of goals and relationships highlighted. The conversation redefines retirement as a time for growth and cognitive engagement, rather than withdrawal from life.
19 snips
Dec 25, 2022 • 40min
128. How Can You Give Better Gifts?
What makes a great gift? The hosts dive into the complexities of gift-giving, touching on cultural nuances and even animal behaviors. They discuss the awkwardness of re-gifting and debate the merits of cash versus thoughtful presents. Through entertaining anecdotes, they explore the psychological impact of gifts and the expectations tied to children's reactions. With engaging listener stories, they highlight the balance between practicality and emotional connection, making you rethink your approach to selecting the perfect gift.
52 snips
Dec 18, 2022 • 38min
127. How Can You Be a Better Communicator?
Discover the nuances of communication through engaging anecdotes and insightful discussions. Learn how mindfulness can elevate your speaking skills, and explore the evolution of writing from typewriters to digital tools. The speakers reveal the secrets behind well-crafted advice columns and how context shapes interactions. Enjoy a lighthearted take on mentorship in communication, and get a sneak peek into upcoming topics that delve into the art of gift-giving.
45 snips
Dec 11, 2022 • 37min
126. Why Do People Love Horror Movies?
Why do we love to be scared? The hosts dive into the allure of horror movies, discussing our fascination with negative emotions and personal anecdotes about favorite films. They examine the concept of benign masochism, explaining why some seek thrills through fear and discomfort. Philosophical musings on emotional catharsis in art arise, as they ponder Aristotle's views on horror. Finally, they tackle the impact of algorithms on personal choices, highlighting emotional dilemmas in modern dating and the consumption of negative media.
94 snips
Dec 4, 2022 • 40min
125. Should We Replace Umpires With Robots?
The discussion kicks off with the provocative idea of replacing human umpires with robots in sports. Listeners are treated to entertaining anecdotes about officiating decisions and the emotional weight they carry. The conversation probes the balance between technological precision and the irreplaceable nature of human judgment. It delves into the challenges of integrating AI into decision-making roles and the psychological barriers that accompany this shift. Ultimately, the debate challenges how society perceives the merging of technology and tradition in sports officiating.
9 snips
Nov 27, 2022 • 38min
124. How Do You Stop Grinding Your Teeth?
Discover the quirky world of bruxism as the hosts dive into the mysteries of teeth grinding. Personal anecdotes reveal how stress and anxiety play a role in this common issue. They humorously tackle dental myths and explore various treatments, from Botox to those often-dreaded mouth guards. The impact of lifestyle factors and the pandemic on dental health is also examined. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences while enjoying lighthearted banter and thought-provoking insights.
97 snips
Nov 20, 2022 • 38min
123. What’s Wrong With Coveting?
Dive into the intriguing world of emotions as the hosts explore the thin line between schadenfreude and sadism. Discover how envy, often seen as negative, can be reframed as a powerful motivator for self-improvement. They also discuss the influence of role models, particularly in shaping success and decision-making. Cultural perspectives on honor and dignity shed light on complex relationships. Plus, listener insights spark lively discussions around the themes of comparison and the seven deadly sins.
69 snips
Nov 13, 2022 • 22min
When Is It OK to Tell a Lie? (Replay from Ep. 66)
Can a little white lie actually be beneficial? The discussion delves into the emotional weight of dishonesty, especially in relationships. They explore how gender influences lying and how children develop their understanding of honesty. With intriguing concepts like the Valjean effect and the potential for lie-tracking apps, the psychology of deceit comes to life. The complexity of polygraphs in lie detection adds another layer, making listeners reconsider the fine line between truth and falsehood.
