Choose to be Curious

Dale Zhou, a postdoctoral scholar at UC Irvine, specializes in understanding how our brains process and connect information. In this discussion, he introduces a unique kinesthetic framework for curiosity, categorizing styles into busybody, hunter, and dancer. Zhou explores the interplay between art and science, and how curiosity shapes decision-making. He also dives into browsing behaviors on Wikipedia, addressing privacy issues and algorithms' influence on knowledge access. The conversation concludes with creative analogies that illustrate the unpredictable nature of curiosity.

Patty Gómez, Chair of the World Language Department at a South Florida school and a former material science engineer, explores the power of question formulation to ignite curiosity in education. She shares insights on how structured questioning can transform group dynamics while nurturing trust among educators. Patty dives into the joy of collective inquiry and discusses overcoming fears in innovative teaching environments. Using analogies like dolphins and camera lenses, she illustrates the transformative impact of curiosity on learning and social interaction.

Join educator John Hunter, the creator of the World Peace Game, as he discusses this innovative political simulation for fourth graders. He explores how children's curiosity allows them to navigate complex global crises with creativity. Hunter shares inspiring stories from students who've tackled peace challenges, illuminating the transformative power of hands-on learning. He also reveals how embracing uncertainty can enhance education and foster critical thinking, emphasizing the invaluable insights kids provide in shaping our understanding of global interconnectedness.

Menka Sanghvi, a mindfulness and digital habits expert from London and founder of the Just Looking project, shares insights on the power of curiosity in our daily lives. She discusses how simply looking at the sky can enhance mindfulness and connection. Menka highlights the impact of attention activism in navigating digital distractions and emphasizes the importance of intentional engagement with technology. With anecdotes from her humanitarian work, she illustrates how curiosity fosters deeper connections and enriches our shared experiences.

XuanJun Gong, an assistant professor at Texas A&M, dives into the intriguing world of media selection and curiosity. He explores how our mood influences the media we choose and why curiosity drives us to either explore new content or stick with familiar favorites. XuanJun also discusses the impact of generational views on film and the rising trend of preprints in academia, highlighting their role in accelerating information sharing. A fascinating look at how curiosity shapes our media experiences awaits!

Tomora Wright Swann, the Public Art Projects Manager for Arlington County, collaborates with Aurora Robson, an artist known for her environmental works using plastic debris. They explore the role of public art in fostering community engagement and enhancing everyday spaces. Discover innovative projects that address historical narratives and local ecosystems while encouraging curiosity. With discussions on iconic walking tours, they highlight the transformative power of art in promoting awareness and personal growth within the community.

In this engaging discussion, journalist and photographer Andy Isaacson shares his insights on curiosity and connection. He emphasizes the significance of meeting people where they are, blending empathy with rigorous investigation. Through personal stories, he illustrates how urban exploration can spark curiosity and nurture understanding. Isaacson also highlights the power of storytelling as a currency, fostering connections across diverse communities. His reflections on curiosity’s multifaceted nature invite listeners to deepen their own engagement with the world.

Igor Grossmann, Ph.D., leads the Wisdom and Culture Lab at the University of Waterloo, studying how people interpret the world through cultural lenses. He discusses how curiosity influences wisdom, emphasizing the importance of intellectual humility and openness to diverse perspectives. The conversation delves into the complexities of wisdom across cultures and how context shapes its expression. Grossmann also explores playful analogies for curiosity, showcasing its creative and unexpected dimensions, reflecting on the deeper connections between curiosity and wisdom.

Sulma Arias is the Executive Director of People's Action and has two decades of experience advocating for immigrant rights and economic justice. She discusses deep canvassing as a transformative approach centered on listening and building rapport rather than conventional persuasion. Sulma highlights how curiosity facilitates understanding in divisive conversations, fostering genuine connections. She also explores creative analogies that illustrate the joy and unpredictability of curiosity, emphasizing its power to enhance personal growth and community dialogue.

Join orca experts Sara Shimazu and Jeff Friedman as they dive into the fascinating world of these marine mammals. Sara, a whale watch captain with a lifelong passion for orcas, and Jeff, who journeyed from Cleveland to the San Juan Islands for his love of whales, share captivating tales about orca behavior and social structures. They discuss the intelligence of orcas, their complex communication, and the ethical approach to observing them. Throughout, the duo playfully likens curiosity to hiking trails, emphasizing its vital role in ecotourism and our connection to nature.