Choose to be Curious

This podcast explores the connection between curiosity and mental health, delving into post-colonial property ownership, the boundaries of questioning, and the bias towards answers. The guest shares their journey in building an independent reader-funded mental health journalism platform. They also discuss the curiosity boom in India, the importance of curiosity during the pandemic, and express gratitude for their guest.

Arlington County's restorative justice efforts strive for an equitable, empathetic community that honors the dignity and humanity of all people and creates pathways for belonging, healing, accountability, and growth. Restorative Arlington coordinator Kimiko Lighty explains how central curiosity is to the work. Theme music by Sean Balick. “Turning on the Lights” by Speakeasy via Blue Dot Sessions.

"Architecting Curiosity" turns out to be a pretty fabulous way to think about choosing to be curious. It is also a community and school with which to practice and train our natural muscle of inquiry. I decided to enroll. Architecting Curiosity founders, experience designers all, Pim Schachtschabel, Monica Canfield-Lenfest and Anthony Rocco were my most marvelous teachers and guides. This is but a taste of what time with them is like...  Theme music by Sean Balick. "Slow Lane Lover" by Barstool via Blue Dot Sessions.

This week we visit that uncomfortable place that curiosity can create as we wrestle with the courage of our questions. Social justice music-maker Crys Matthews illuminates the power of music to open hard conversations. And, oh, what a voice! "Exactly Where You Are" used with permission of artist.

How do the stories we read as children inform our curiosity about our environment? How do we "read" our landscapes wherever we are, no matter what age? Choose to be Curious intern Lydia Perry leads this rich conversation with environmental scientist Liam Heneghan. Theme and other music by Sean Balick.

Dulce Carrillo, Supervisor of Public Engagement for Arlington Public Schools, discusses community engagement and the importance of curiosity. The podcast explores various events and activities for community engagement, the shift to virtual meetings during COVID, and the role of asking questions and constant review. Curiosity is likened to a school bus, leading to new ideas and perspectives.

Coltan Scrivner, researcher investigating our fascination with the darker side of life, discusses morbid curiosity and its advantages. They explore the relationship between horror movies and pandemic resilience, the tension between learning about dangerous topics, and the correlation between horror media and cold-heartedness.

Local author, journalist and historian Charlie Clark joins the host to discuss curiosity and Arlington history. They explore the connections between Arlington and Alexandria, the transformation of Arlington as a tech hub, and the importance of understanding local history. They also engage in a game on analogies for curiosity, discuss life tips, mention historical landmarks, and explore the Stone Wall and sponsors.

Laura Silverman, founder of Booze Free in DC, Zero Proof Nation, & The Sobriety Collective, discusses the concept of 'sober curiosity' and reassessing our relationship with alcohol. They explore the benefits of sobriety, the popularity of non-alcoholic beverages, and the power of curiosity. The hosts express gratitude and encourage listeners to follow them and the guest on social media.

Mitch Praver, a close-up magician, discusses the intersection of curiosity and magic. They explore infants' response to magic tricks, the technical aspects of magic, and the pursuit of mastering tricks. They also touch on their experience in Cuba's magic event, the essence of curiosity, and how magic has evolved over time.