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
13 snips
Jul 20, 2020 • 30min
10. Why Are Stories Stickier Than Statistics?
Discover why stories are far more memorable than dry statistics. The discussion highlights how compelling narratives evoke empathy and improve memory retention. Explore the ethical dilemmas journalists face when storytelling, and how misrepresentation can skew public perception. Learn about the emotional impact of photography in conveying stories, and delve into the complexities of who gets to tell certain narratives. Lastly, the importance of 'happy endings' in storytelling reveals how they shape our experiences and inspire optimism.
13 snips
Jul 13, 2020 • 33min
9. Why Is It So Hard to Be Alone With Our Thoughts?
Delve into the discomfort of solitude and why many prefer mild shocks to being alone with their thoughts. Discover how technology challenges young people’s ability to engage in deep thinking and personal connection. Explore the brain's default mode network and its role in daydreaming versus goal-oriented tasks. Learn how journaling and walking can enhance mental clarity. Uncover how parenting dynamics shift as kids seek independence and the lasting effects of parental influence on adolescent development.
8 snips
Jul 6, 2020 • 36min
8. Wouldn’t It Be Better to Hear Your Eulogy Before You’re Dead?
Eugene Mirman, a comedian and voice actor from Bob's Burgers, joins the late psychologist Anders Ericsson, celebrated for his work on expertise. They explore the concept of 'living eulogies,' allowing individuals to hear heartfelt tributes while still alive. The duo hilariously navigates the intersection of humor and mortality, discussing how laughter can coexist with serious themes. They also touch on the significance of gratitude and shared stories in creating deeper community ties, showcasing the beauty of celebration intertwined with reflection.
8 snips
Jun 29, 2020 • 30min
7. How Do You Handle Criticism?
The discussion kicks off with the emotional hurdles of criticism and its role in personal growth. The speakers examine how feedback can be a double-edged sword, differentiating between constructive and unhelpful criticism. They humorously explore the concept of radical candor in workplace communications. A thought experiment prompts listeners to weigh the emotional stakes of sending congratulations versus condolences. Lastly, tips for supportive communication during friends' triumphs and tribulations are shared, emphasizing empathy and genuine engagement.
4 snips
Jun 22, 2020 • 39min
6. Is Incompetence a Form of Dishonesty?
This discussion tackles the moral implications of incompetence at work, raising questions about self-awareness and accountability. It dives into the emotional effects of mistakes on integrity and explores how individuals often rationalize their shortcomings. The speakers examine the role of mission statements in guiding professional behavior, stressing the need for clarity over vagueness. Additionally, they delve into the balance between striving for improvement and the fear of failure, all while navigating the complexities of personal growth and ethical decision-making.
4 snips
Jun 15, 2020 • 29min
5. What Do Tom Sawyer and the Founder of Duolingo Have in Common?
In this episode, special guest Luis von Ahn, a brilliant computer scientist and the mind behind Duolingo and CAPTCHA, shares his fascinating journey from Guatemala to tech innovator. He discusses the inventive nature of both Tom Sawyer and his entrepreneurial spirit, illustrating how creativity can solve real problems. The conversation dives into the power of language learning, its impact on income disparities, and the importance of making education accessible. Lastly, they tackle the dilemmas in academic publishing, emphasizing the quest for quality over mere quantity in research.
7 snips
Jun 8, 2020 • 32min
4. Does All Creativity Come From Pain?
The discussion dives into Freud's idea of sublimation, revealing how emotional struggles can fuel creativity. Personal anecdotes highlight the role of art in coping with social anxieties. The interplay between life, death, and immortality sparks a philosophical debate about our priorities and perceptions of mortality. Humor and personal stories enrich the conversation, making psychology relatable. The hosts also candidly address inaccuracies and provide resources for listeners eager to explore these profound themes.
15 snips
Jun 1, 2020 • 27min
3. What Does It Mean to Be a “Hard Worker”?
This discussion unpacks what it truly means to be a 'hard worker,' challenging conventional definitions of diligence and success. It highlights the paradox of hard work and how personal perceptions shape our achievements. Moreover, the conversation explores reference bias and its connection to happiness over a lifetime, emphasizing the fluctuating nature of joy. Listeners gain insights into balancing optimism with realism while navigating personal goals, along with practical strategies to enhance gratitude and mental well-being.
25 snips
May 25, 2020 • 35min
2. What is the Optimal Way to Be Angry?
The hosts dive into the complicated nature of anger in today’s world, influenced by social media and historical philosophies. They explore how technology makes anger more visible and discuss light-hearted strategies for managing it. Reflections on expressing frustration during the pandemic reveal new challenges. An intriguing comparison emerges between our empathy for dogs and how we treat fellow humans, questioning our emotional priorities. The conversation combines humor with deeper ethical considerations, fostering a broader understanding of our feelings.
11 snips
May 18, 2020 • 38min
1. Did Covid-19 Kill the Handshake?
The podcast humorously explores how COVID-19 has transformed handshaking and personal interactions. The speakers discuss the cultural significance of physical touch and alternative greetings in a post-pandemic world. They delve into our collective anxiety about uncertainty and how it shapes our responses to social norms. Amidst the serious reflections, there's a lighthearted take on unexpected surprises and the quirks of redefined etiquette, revealing insights into how we can navigate this new social landscape with humor and resilience.
