Choose to be Curious

Lean into the language of smell with me: we sniff things out, we follow a scent. We’re nosey! Is this not curiosity, enacted? Embodied!? So what do we know about our sense of smell, and might studying it offer insights into the way our brains explore, learn and remember? Venkatesh Murthy: https://vnmurthylab.org Theme music by Sean Balick; “A Palace of Cedars” by Pine Barrens, via Blue Dot Sessions.

Much as I champion curiosity, sometimes it can take us down bad paths. Thank goodness there are excellent resources that help us lean into our curiosity, recognize misinformation -- and stop it in its tracks. RumorGuard is an initiative of the News Literacy Project to do just that. It fact-checks viral rumors and offers concrete tips to help us build our news literacy chops. News Literacy Project: https://newslit.org Theme music by Sean Balick; “Heartland Flyer” by The Balloonist, via Blue Dot Sessions.

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.

Anthony Zador, Allie Davis Harris Professor of Biology at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, advocates for the importance of curiosity-driven research. He discusses how genuine curiosity can lead to groundbreaking discoveries, highlighting its distinction from applied science. Zador shares fascinating anecdotes, such as the unexpected success of Gila monster venom in obesity treatment. The conversation also addresses current challenges in funding scientific research and the critical role of public engagement in nurturing curiosity and innovation.

Rabbi Nancy Flam, a trailblazer in contemporary Jewish communal life and co-founder of the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, dives into the rich tradition of curiosity in Judaism. She discusses Moses' encounter with the burning bush and the Jewish value of sakranut, emphasizing questions as a pathway to deeper understanding. Highlighting the Passover Seder's four questions, she explores how curiosity fosters inclusive dialogue and enriches faith. Flam encourages reflection on curiosity as a vital spiritual pursuit, bridging ancient texts with modern relevance.

Discover the origins of a curiosity-driven journey that emphasizes personal and professional growth. Dive into the World Peace Game, a political simulation that enhances critical thinking and cooperation among students. Explore real-world applications of curiosity in conflict resolution, particularly a success story from Afghanistan. Unpack how active listening and meaningful questions can transform interactions and open new doors. This insightful conversation offers practical strategies for embracing curiosity in everyday life.