Choose to be Curious

Curiosity activist, Scott Shigeoka, talks about surviving scary moments, appreciating curiosity's directions, and practicing yoga insights to explore oneself.

Scott Shigeoka, an author and educator, shares his expertise on curiosity and its power to transform lives and change the world. Topics discussed include deep curiosity, visualization techniques, building a culture of curiosity, and the importance of meaningful questions. Discover practical methods to strengthen curiosity and make others feel seen and heard.

Rebecca Kamen, a passionate artist and educator with dyslexia, explores the unique perspective of dyslexia as a lens for seeing things differently. She discusses the importance of creativity, research, and the intersection of curiosity, creativity, and dyslexia. She also shares insights on the value of discovery and empowering others to see things differently.

Instagram and TikTok sensation chef Jack Zhang, known as @CookingForLevi, discusses the importance of cultivating a curious palate in children. He shares his experiences of creating visually appealing meals for his son, Levi, and how it has influenced their parenting. They emphasize the value of trying new things and setting an example for children. Gardening is analogized to curiosity, and they explore the joy and challenges of both. Jack expresses gratitude for the support they have received through their Instagram account.

Maybe it was the pandemic. Maybe curiosity is having a moment globally. I’m not sure what it is, but the thirst for learning and the attendant explosion of science communication efforts in India are noteworthy. I sat down with Ruchi Manglunia and Shweata N. Hegde, aka Jigyasa and Utsuka, the charming — and unapologetically curious — co-founders and hosts of India Asks Why, a “science podcast for young minds.” We talked about their inspiration, operation, and hopes for a more curious future. India Asks Why podcast: https://www.indiaaskswhy.org Theme music by Sean Balick; "Glass Beads" by The Balloonist, via Blue Dot Sessions.

Leidy Klotz, UVA Engineering professor and author of Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less, discusses the power of subtraction and analogies. He highlights how subtraction is often overlooked and provides examples of its effectiveness. Additionally, he explores how analogies can help challenge entrenched thinking. An intriguing analogy between curiosity and snoring is also presented.

Slovakian educator and author Veronika Darwell shares her journey as a teacher and the importance of curiosity. They discuss the influence of teachers, learning languages, and the process of creating her book. They also touch on representation and the impact of the book on children.

"On Open-Earedness" features Tim McKenry, a spirited advocate for reclaiming our tolerance of the unfamiliar and making music an intentional part of our lives. They discuss the decline of open-mindedness, the role of music in memory formation, cultural cringe in Australia, and the benefits of isolation in nurturing personal curiosity.

Monica Guzman, founder of Reclaim Curiosity and senior fellow for public practice at Braver Angels, discusses fearlessly curious conversations in divided times. They emphasize the power of curiosity in bridging divides, understanding values in conversations, and using analogies to describe curiosity. Overall, the podcast explores the importance of curiosity for building connections and understanding different perspectives. Check out Braver Angels for more information.

In this episode, David Pearl, an innovator in business and the arts, discusses 'street wisdom' and the importance of slowing down to truly experience the world. They explore trust, safety, and embracing the unpredictable. They also discuss how curiosity expands our thinking and the upcoming event organized by Street Wisdom.