Choose to be Curious

Actor, director, educator, and executive coach Carol Cadby discusses the impact of tone of voice on conveying curiosity. The conversation explores the motivation behind asking curious questions, authenticity in conversations, and the difference between genuine enthusiasm and false confidence in public speaking. The podcast also delves into how cultural norms influence the perception of female and male voices, with a call for listener submissions of dragonfly analogies.

Philosophy professor Perry Zurn and co-editor of a curiosity anthology talk about the inception of curiosity studies, the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, the impact of curiosity on human behavior, and the connection between baking bread and curiosity.

Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, brain scientist and author, discusses resilience and bravery. She explores the roles of left and right brain hemispheres in managing stress, the power of choice in being brave, and navigating uncertainty during a health crisis. Curiosity is highlighted as a tool for enhancing self-awareness and openness to new possibilities.

Arlington Presbyterian Church pastor Ashley Goff discusses (re)creating community through humble inquiry, focusing on neighborhood engagement and intentional design choices. The role of soundscapes in building community bonds is highlighted, along with interactive analogies and a call to cultivate curiosity.

NOVA students participating in the State Department's Community College Initiative discuss how curiosity has influenced their year abroad, highlighting the importance of diverse college communities and offering advice to future participants. A fascinating conversation on exploring new perspectives and embracing cultural differences.

Dani Bassett, a Professor at the University of Pennsylvania specializing in network science and complex systems theory, discusses how network theory can help us understand and connect our curiosity dots. They share insights on the intersection of basic science, engineering, and clinical medicine, emphasizing the importance of embracing curiosity for knowledge building and sparking innovation.

Bob Mitchell, founder of a bipartisan leadership program, discusses the power of listening well and seeking opportunities in politics. Embracing diversity in bipartisanship, exploring curiosity through marshmallows and bamboo growth, and fostering collaboration are key topics.

Dr. Nicole Rochester, a health advocate, discusses the power of curiosity in healthcare. She emphasizes the importance of asking questions, understanding medical information, and advocating for personalized care. The conversation explores patient empowerment, improving diagnoses through curiosity, and using playful analogies to highlight the role of curiosity in healthcare.

Guest Greg Hamilton, Arlington Magazine founder, shares a heartwarming tale of curiosity rewarded. He delves into his journey of self-discovery through adoption, uncovering surprising revelations about his birth parents. The podcast explores the emotional journey of reuniting with his birth mother and half-sisters, emphasizing the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding in challenging situations.

Educator and anthropologist Arjun Shankar discusses the impact of valuing knowledge and commodifying curiosity on student mental health. They explore societal influences, capitalist values, and the challenges of creating a positive learning environment in universities.