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
84 snips
Dec 24, 2023 • 40min
176. Why Is It So Hard to Make Decisions?
Discover why too many choices can leave us feeling overwhelmed. Explore the humorous side of decision-making dilemmas, from car purchases to holiday planning. Dive into analysis paralysis and its psychological roots, learning how factors like emotions and cognitive biases complicate our choices. Unpack the idea of choice fatigue and the need for balance in a world of endless options. Plus, hear personal stories that reveal how trusting relationships can ease decision woes. Perfect for anyone seeking clarity in a complex world!
27 snips
Dec 17, 2023 • 38min
175. Why Is Astrology So Popular?
Why is astrology capturing the hearts of many? The conversation dives into the allure of horoscopes and the booming astrology industry, filled with personalized insights. Amid skepticism, listeners explore how cognitive biases shape beliefs in astrological predictions. Discussions touch on the fascinating overlap between astrology and personality tests, revealing how these systems provide comfort in uncertain times. Personal experiences and the cultural shift towards the occult highlight a blend of curiosity and skepticism in modern life.
52 snips
Dec 10, 2023 • 36min
174. What’s the Point of I.Q. Testing?
The discussion dives into the controversial world of IQ testing and its implications for education and society. It questions the labeling of gifted students and the historical biases affecting test outcomes. Personal stories reveal how expectations can influence performance, highlighted by the Pygmalion effect. The speakers advocate for a more inclusive approach to intelligence, prioritizing curiosity over standardized scores. They also touch on language's impact in education and tease upcoming topics, creating a lively and thought-provoking conversation.
106 snips
Dec 3, 2023 • 35min
173. How Important Is Your Choice of Words?
What happens when psychology meets magic? The speakers delve into the intriguing intersection between word choice and unconscious bias, exploring how magic tricks reveal our subconscious decision-making. They discuss the power of praise vs. admiration, emphasizing language's role in shaping self-perception and identity. A former NFL quarterback's transition to academia sparks insights on motivation influenced by word choice. The engaging conversation challenges listeners to reflect on their own language use and its impact on behavior and personal growth.
39 snips
Nov 26, 2023 • 53min
149. Is It Harder to Make Friends as an Adult? (Replay)
In this engaging discussion, Gabrielle Hamilton, renowned chef and author of "Blood, Bones & Butter," dives into the complexities of adult friendships. She explores how relationships evolve as we age and the dwindling opportunities for meaningful connections. Hamilton shares her humorous insights on joining social groups like bowling leagues while revealing the effort required to foster new friendships. Additionally, she reflects on her culinary journey, balancing artistry with leadership in the kitchen, and highlights the importance of community in both friendship and food.
38 snips
Nov 19, 2023 • 37min
172. Is Marriage Worth It?
Can long-term relationships be detrimental? The discussion dives into the murky waters of intimacy versus codependence. As marriage rates fall, guests share personal stories and research about the evolving nature of romantic bonds. Lifelong friendships are highlighted as essential for a fulfilling life. The conversation weighs the mental health implications of love and commitment, questioning if society's pressures shape our happiness. Is marriage still a priority, or do we need to redefine what fulfillment really means?
25 snips
Nov 12, 2023 • 35min
171. Where Is the Line Between Exaggeration and Lying?
The hosts dive into the blurry line between exaggeration and lying, sparking intriguing reflections on our social interactions. They discuss the evolution of the word 'literally' and how language shifts affect communication. Hasan Minhaj's comedy style raises questions about emotional truths versus fabricated stories. Personal anecdotes reveal societal pressures to embellish narratives, highlighting the art of persuasion. The conversation expands to the importance of community initiatives in fostering connections and addressing themes of loneliness.
38 snips
Nov 5, 2023 • 30min
170. Are We Getting Lonelier?
Is loneliness a reflection of our emotional state rather than our social environment? Dive into the complexities of connecting with others in today's world, where technology and personal stories reveal unsettling truths. Discover practical strategies to build meaningful relationships, and learn how solitude can actually promote self-growth. The hosts share insights on navigating loneliness through intimacy and community, offering light-hearted yet profound reflections on creating connections amid a growing epidemic of isolation.
81 snips
Oct 29, 2023 • 39min
169. Can We Disagree Better?
This discussion dives into the complexities of political disagreement and the importance of constructive dialogue. The hosts highlight how healthy conflict can foster growth and better solutions, while introducing the concept of adversarial collaboration to bridge divides. They explore the significance of civil disagreement in a polarized society, referencing a poignant Heineken ad as a model for collaboration. Personal anecdotes and expert insights illustrate the value of listening and engaging with diverse perspectives to enhance understanding.
58 snips
Oct 22, 2023 • 31min
168. Would You Be Happier if You Were More Creative?
Delve into the fascinating link between creativity and happiness, where artistic pursuits boost well-being and job satisfaction. Discover how constraints can spark innovative thinking and learn the impact of emotional states on creative output. The discussion highlights humor as a tool for resilience and emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset. Playful anecdotes about regional quirks add humor, while insights about technology's influence on relationships and learning make for a thought-provoking listen.
