Smart Girl Dumb Questions

Bill Nye, the celebrated engineer and CEO of the Planetary Society, dives into the state of science today. He discusses the dangers of skepticism turning into cynicism and the need for critical thinking. Bill shares insights on upcoming breakthroughs in fusion and the role of AI in accelerating science. He reflects on the cultural shifts affecting scientific literacy and advocates for climate action. Finally, he ponders the existence of extraterrestrial life and his enduring curiosity about human origins.

In this engaging chat, Casey Dreier, Chief of Space Policy at the Planetary Society, dives deep into the societal impacts of NASA’s $25 billion budget. He discusses how space exploration fuels innovation, from GPS to solar panels, and the importance of funding space science over human spaceflight. Casey also addresses the politicization of NASA funding, highlighting bipartisan resistance to budget cuts. With a nod to the historical significance of the Apollo era, he emphasizes that private companies like SpaceX can’t replace the essential work of public-funded science.

Do actually successful Grammy-winning DJs sleep? What do music producers do? Should they date the musicians they produce? And is Diplo ever getting back together with Skrillex for Jack U? Nayeema turns her curiosity (and flirt) onto Diplo, aka Thomas Wesley Pentz, the Grammy-winning musician and DJ whose hits range from house to country and Bollywood to Brazilian favelas, and who has collaborated with everyone from Madonna to M.I.A. and Rihanna.  They discuss why he’s becoming obsessed with running and all things abs, how he balances his electronic and country personalities, why he’s over Burning Man and doubling down on Major Lazer and whether he is the Forrest Gump of music. Also: how Diplo approaches his craft, his kids and, yes, his dating life. Plus, he shares what dating famous people has taught him about relationships. And fact checks: Brian Epstein (no relation) was the Beatles manager, George Martin was the Beatles producer, and Fidel Castro is not Justin Trudeau's dad. Make sure you’re following Nayeema and the show on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, as well as wherever you get your podcasts. Also: help Diplo out: do you know how manatees drink water? Or have other dumb Qs? Email nayeema.raza101@gmail.com or leave us a review!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a captivating discussion with Esther Perel, a renowned psychotherapist and author known for her insights on relationships, they delve into why love feels harder in modern times. Esther explores how feminism has reshaped romance, the allure of traditional roles, and the emotional toll of consumerism on dating. She reflects on the decline of crushes with age and how quality relationships can enhance longevity. With her trademark candor, Esther examines the intersection of trauma, risk, and intimacy, offering transformative advice for lasting connections.

The curiosity party is back, with new episodes every Tuesday. Nayeema returned from summer break (why don't adults get those?) with a spicy line up Qs we all have and guests who can help answer them. Follow ⁠Smart Girl Dumb Questions⁠, review the show and SHARE this show with your bestie, your mom and that group chat you've muted. And check out our Last Dumb Question street series on ⁠IG⁠ or ⁠TikTok⁠. Your LDQs are also welcome, just email nayeemaraza101@gmail.com. Stay curious. Stay hot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens to our bodies and brains when we fall in love? And when we break up? Is orgasm linked to fertility? Who came up with the idea of marriage? And did capitalism just kill our sex drive?  Nayeema’s taking a break from summer break to ask the dumbest questions she has to the nerdiest evolutionary biologist she could find: Dr. Justin Garcia, Executive Director of the Kinsey Institute and author of an epic forthcoming book The Intimate Animal. They talk kissing, shaky bridges and scientific studies. Also: porn-watching pandas, monogamous penguins and, um, something about a pig farmer? It’s basically the Discovery Channel on today’s Smart Girl Dumb Questions. PS: our new season starts later this month! Make sure you’re following us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.  We’d love to hear your ideas, suggestions and feedback! Email nayeema.raza101@gmail.com or leave us a review! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this discussion, New York City Mayor Eric Adams shares insights about his re-election plans and the importance of revitalizing nightlife and supporting working-class citizens. He tackles public safety, addressing crime through community engagement and mental health initiatives. Adams also reflects on the challenges of local governance amidst media scrutiny and public trust. Light-hearted moments include his take on political rivalries, favorite dining spots, and the quirks of city life, blending serious discussions with humor.

Lee Drutman, a fellow at New America and author of 'Breaking The Two Party Doom Loop,' dives into the challenges of the American two-party system. They discuss the historical feud between Jefferson and Hamilton and the potential for new parties, including Elon Musk's controversial 'America Party.' The conversation explores electoral mechanics, voter apathy, and the need for diverse political representation. With playful insights on party dynamics and the implications of third-party emergence, it's a thought-provoking exploration of America's political landscape.

Join board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Ellen Vora, author of The Anatomy of Anxiety, as she dives into the multifaceted causes of anxiety. She discusses whether our mental health crisis stems from cultural, dietary, or technological factors. Vora challenges the conventional serotonin theory of depression, highlighting the crucial link between gut health and mental well-being. The conversation also touches on the interplay of anxiety with physical health, the importance of human connection, and holistic approaches to emotional wellness.

What do Iranians think? Are they more or less into the Ayatollah (and nukes) after the last two weeks? Did the US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites … take out the nuclear targets? How would we know? Also: why do all Iran’s proxies start with “H”? Nayeema asks the dumbest questions she can think of to the foremost Iran expert she could identify: Dr. Vali Nasr, a professor and former dean at John Hopkins SAIS, former senior advisor to the US State Department, and the author of several books on foreign policy and Iran including Iran’s Grand Strategy.  Follow Dr. Nasr on X @vali_nasr. Follow Nayeema on IG or X too – and you can find the show on IG, TikTok & YouTube @smartgirldumbquestions.  Finally: YOU could be on a future episode – send your dumbest questions to nayeemaraza101@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices