Choose to be Curious

Dating coach Tim Molnar blends social science and statistical scholarship with both personal experience and practical suggestions in hopes of transforming how people approach modern dating.  How can curiosity help in our dating lives? Tim has thoughts! We explore research's origins in "me-search"; getting curious about what is -- or isn't -- actually working; second dates and old-school advantages of the exposure effect; running small experiments with our lives; rejection leading to success; curiosity practices to keep dating your partner; and why caring about green smoothies is so very, very attractive. Tim Molnar: https://timothymolnar.com Theme music by Sean Balick; ”Le Marais” by The Sweet Hots, via Blue Dot Sessions.

Join neuroscientist Matthias Gruber, a professor at Cardiff University's Motivation and Memory Lab, as he unpacks the fascinating science behind curiosity. He discusses how curiosity fuels learning and enhances memory retention in young people and adults. The conversation highlights groundbreaking studies linking curiosity to cognitive mapping and classroom engagement. Gruber also explores the relationship between stress tolerance and curiosity, revealing its impact on exploration and educational practices. Prepare for a mind-expanding exploration of how curiosity shapes our learning experiences!

Lisa Kristine, a humanitarian photographer and fine artist, sheds light on the power of storytelling through photography. She discusses how curiosity fuels both her work and personal experiences, encouraging deeper connections with the subjects she captures. Lisa addresses the transformative impact of her craft in raising awareness about human trafficking and the importance of genuine relationships with marginalized communities. The conversation also delves into redefining narratives and celebrates presence as a vital component in both art and life.

Venkatesh Murthy, a renowned Harvard molecular biologist, dives into the fascinating world of smell and curiosity. He explores how our olfactory system shapes our behaviors and memories, shedding light on why this sense is often overlooked. The discussion unveils an innovative experiment with mice that demonstrates their natural curiosity through scent trails. Murthy also reflects on the evolution of olfaction and its implications during the COVID-19 pandemic, making a case for why understanding smell is vital for grasping our sensory experiences.

Dan Evon, Senior Manager of Education Design at News Literacy Project and former Snopes.com writer, dives into the world of misinformation. He discusses how curiosity can shield us from falsehoods and shares practical tips like lateral reading and reverse image searches to discern truth. The conversation also tackles the pitfalls of social media and the importance of robust fact-checking in journalism. Through creative analogies, Evon emphasizes nurturing curiosity to combat misleading information effectively.

Laura Zigman, a seasoned author and ghostwriter, dives into the art of capturing authentic voices in storytelling. She emphasizes the delicate balance between curiosity and nosiness, sharing anecdotes about the ethics of interviewing. Highlighting the trust essential in her work, Zigman discusses how compassion and sensitivity pave the way for true storytelling. The conversation also explores the transformative power of curiosity in creative processes, using imaginative analogies to illustrate its importance in building connections.

Mikel Herrington, a dedicated veteran of AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps, dives into the heart of curiosity in civil service. He shares how curiosity fosters deep, meaningful relationships that transform service into a journey of understanding. Humor intertwines with curiosity, providing resilience amidst challenges. Through engaging stories, Mikel illustrates the reciprocal nature of curiosity across cultures, culminating in rich connections and personal growth. He even playfully explores creative analogies, inviting listeners to reflect on their own curiosity.

Shawkat Toorawa, a Professor of Arabic language and literature at Yale, brings a wealth of curiosity to the discussion. He shares insights from his Dr. T Project, which highlights 'three things worth knowing' weekly. The conversation navigates the critical divide between 'should know' and 'worth knowing,' promoting a voluntary approach to learning. Toorawa emphasizes the role of cultural references in evoking nostalgia and the joy of connecting diverse interests. With playful analogies, he invites listeners to explore curiosity in their own lives.

Diane Kresh, the Director of Libraries in Arlington, Virginia, is a champion of intellectual freedom and community engagement. She dives into the history of courageous librarians, discussing the implications of book bans on curiosity and how libraries can become sanctuaries for diverse ideas. Kresh likens curiosity to a playful puppy, emphasizing its endless quest for knowledge. She also highlights the vital role of libraries as community hubs, advocating for the importance of promoting open dialogue and understanding through literature.

Silvia Villacampa, managing director of Liberty Language Services, shares her expertise in translation and interpretation. She highlights the critical role of curiosity in effective communication and navigating cultural nuances. Dive into bilingualism's impact on connecting diverse backgrounds and the joys of engaging with multiple languages. Silvia also discusses the ethical aspects of interpreting in sensitive settings and uses plant names as a fun analogy to illuminate the deeper insights that curiosity can foster.