

No Dumb Questions
Destin Sandlin and Matt Whitman
A science guy from the deep south (Destin) and a humanities guy from the wild west (Matt Whitman) discuss deep questions with varying levels of maturity.
Episodes
Mentioned books

25 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 18min
213 - Behold: Pompeii!
The hosts dive into the fascinating history of Pompeii, exploring its tragic eruption in 79 AD and the human stories behind it. They reflect on the legacy of figures like Pompey and cultural artifacts such as mosaics and brothel menus that shed light on Roman daily life. An emotional discussion about the plaster casts of victims highlights the impact of the eruption. They also share personal visits, comparing experiences at Pompeii and Herculaneum, and offer practical travel tips for future visitors to this hauntingly preserved site.

41 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 1h 19min
212 - Should Alabama Ban the Infinite Scroll?
The hosts dive into the debate over banning infinite scroll, questioning its psychological effects on users. They explore how these endless feeds manipulate dopamine through Skinner box concepts. Personal strategies to limit scrolling are shared, aiming to reclaim focus. A discussion on policy tradeoffs pits government regulation against personal freedom, raising concerns about overreach. Lastly, they weigh alternatives like age restrictions and healthier platforms to combat the pervasive nature of scrolling.

24 snips
Aug 30, 2025 • 1h 8min
211 - Matt's Childhood Hero Signed His _______
The conversation sparks with the ethics of paying to meet celebrities, blending humor and sincerity. Nostalgia flows as the hosts reminisce about live concerts, particularly their fondness for Reliant K and the comedic genius of Weird Al Yankovic. Personal anecdotes about meeting heroes add a light-hearted tension between admiration and humility. They share the whimsical mechanics of the accordion, reflecting on a heartfelt family heirloom. The dynamic is playful as they challenge each other musically, all while uncovering unexpected insights from an escape room experience.

17 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 28min
210 - What Is Nuclear Radiation?
Enjoy a whimsical road trip story that leads to humorous speculations about futuristic tech. Dive into the intricate logistics of transporting nuclear materials and the challenges of securing funding for educational projects. Get insights from a nuclear power plant visit, highlighting safety protocols and ionization. Explore the complexities of nuclear fuel rods and misconceptions surrounding nuclear power. The hosts blend humor with serious insights, making the intricate world of nuclear energy both accessible and entertaining.

54 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 1h 22min
209 - First Day Teaching College
Dive into the whimsical world of first-time college teaching where nostalgia meets awkwardness! From pop culture references to the humor of grappling with advanced engineering concepts, the hosts share their hilarious classroom anecdotes. They discuss the complexities of collision mechanics and the fascinating behaviors of metals like copper and gold. The conversation also takes a turn to explore the evolution of content creation and the challenges of staying authentic in a digital age. Don't miss their lighthearted musings on book endorsements and the intricacies of teaching!

31 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 9min
208 - Sneaking Photos of Other People
Join an entertaining discussion on the evolution of dating slang, with a humorous twist on terms like 'Riz.' Reflect on the dynamics of dating shows and the fine line between humor and sensitivity. Explore the differences between in-person and online ministry, and how technology shapes these experiences. Delve into nostalgic photography stories and the impact of conglomerates on youth culture. Finally, ponder the ethics of candid photography in today's social media landscape, balancing spontaneity with privacy.

57 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 45min
207 - What is a Von Neumann Probe?
Dive into the intriguing world of von Neumann probes and their implications for space exploration. The conversation weaves through historical explorations, the ecological impact of introduced species, and the Fermi Paradox's puzzling questions about alien life. With lighthearted anecdotes and philosophical musings, the hosts explore self-replicating technology's potential dangers and the absurdity of modern internet culture. Expect a delightful blend of science, humor, and existential pondering that will leave you entertained and curious!

35 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 1h 38min
206 - How Many Ways Can You Make a Thing Fly?
Join a whimsical exploration of flight mechanics and the joy of gardening. Discover the quirks of different flower types alongside tales of family vacations and creative dreams. Delve into the science of how birds and helicopters navigate the sky and learn about the innovative techniques behind rockets and jets. The conversation cleverly blends humor and thoughtful insights on space travel, including astronauts' emotional preparations. It’s a delightful mix of nature, engineering, and imaginative banter!

43 snips
May 30, 2025 • 1h 24min
205- So Do I Have the Job or What?!
Delve into quirky historical anecdotes that blend humor and science. Discover pivotal lessons from early customer service roles at an ice cream shop and the life skills gained. Explore the challenges Gen Z faces in today's job market, emphasizing the need for soft skills. Uncover effective interviewing strategies and the nuances of hiring young candidates. Personal stories spark laughter and insights, highlighting community ties and the importance of reputation in shaping career journeys.

24 snips
May 1, 2025 • 1h 12min
204 - The Worst Episode
Dive into the emotional nuances of pet loss as the speakers share heartfelt stories about their beloved dogs. They tackle the sensitive topic of euthanasia, reflecting on its ethical implications and societal attitudes. Personal anecdotes reveal the complex grief associated with saying goodbye. There's also an exploration of evolving mental health regulations, urging a thoughtful approach to life-and-death decisions. Throughout, themes of perseverance and the power of love shine, reminding listeners of the importance of support and cherished memories.