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.
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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
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.
51 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.
24 snips
Nov 6, 2022 • 34min
122. Is Family Overrated?
The discussion delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the question of whether cutting ties is justified. It compares the tendencies of liberals and conservatives regarding family estrangement due to politics. Listeners are invited to reflect on evolving family roles and the significance of friendships as alternative support systems. Personal anecdotes highlight the importance of chosen family, while intriguing animal behaviors offer parallels to human relationships. The conversation paves the way for a deeper understanding of familial ties and connections.
46 snips
Oct 30, 2022 • 38min
121. How Good Are Your Snap Judgments?
How much can you really gauge from a first impression, especially on video calls? The conversation dives into the nuances of snap judgments influenced by visual cues and biases, such as attractiveness and gender. Personal anecdotes spark reflections on how our perceptions can evolve. The impact of first impressions is highlighted, especially in hiring scenarios, showcasing the potential pitfalls of confirmation bias. Plus, a historical twist on unexpected leaders challenges our understandings of character and invites listeners to share their own revelations.
70 snips
Oct 23, 2022 • 37min
120. Why Are Rich Countries So Unhappy?
Why are wealthy nations facing rising unhappiness? The discussion dives into the surprising trend of midlife crises amid affluence, highlighting the gap between wealth and actual well-being. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection over comparison, while underscoring the need for gratitude and empathy. Historical perspectives on maternal mortality rates and the role of government in societal happiness add depth to the conversation. A light-hearted listener's story on cultural differences wraps up the engaging dialogue.
