Smart Girl Dumb Questions

If someone pays for love, is it easier to find? Does it twist the power dynamic? Do professional matchmakers take a Hippocratic Oath? And how long do they think you should wait before….? Fourth-generation matchmaker, Maria Avgitidis joins Nayeema to unpack the economics of love, from the 12 Date Rule to the $150,000 price tag of high-end matchmaking, and explore how dating has evolved from community introductions to algorithms and apps. Maria reveals why texting “doesn’t count,” why your mom is a better matchmaker than your best friend, and how your apartment may be keeping you single.   Plus, Maria shares the one “IKEA test” every couple should take before moving in together. For more Matchmaker Maria, check out her book and her podcast: Ask a Matchmaker. Send us your secrets — or at least your “dumb questions" - nayeema.raza101@gmail.com Also the new season continues every week! Make sure you’re following Nayeema and the show on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. Stay curious, stay hot!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Olympian Alexi Pappas, also a filmmaker and author of "Bravey", explores the motivations behind running—from the emotional benefits to the communal experience of marathons. She shares insights about her post-Olympic depression and the importance of running toward curiosity rather than away from fears. Alexi also offers practical running tips and discusses her creative projects that inspire a beginner's mindset. Plus, she humorously addresses the unexpected reality of urinary leakage among runners—because let’s face it, running can be complicated!

Get ready for a peek behind the doorman's curtain! Daryl and Joe share outrageous stories, from wild resident antics to deep emotional labor. They discuss how they read body language to predict relationship drama and even assess danger. The duo debates whether they should blend in or stay present, and what tipping reveals about us. Plus, they rank delivery services and contemplate the changing landscape of New York's safety. It's a fascinating look at the unsung heroes keeping our buildings—and secrets—secure!

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.