Choose to be Curious

Explore how curiosity can drive equitable governance and improve public health initiatives in Arlington County. Discover the importance of understanding diverse community needs through data science. The discussion also highlights how curiosity influences personal development and decision-making, encouraging everyone to embrace their curious nature for better community engagement. Tune in for insights on harnessing curiosity as a powerful tool for positive change.

Christian Dorsey, Arlington County Board Chairman advocating for equity, dives deep into the intertwining roles of curiosity and policy-making. He underscores how curiosity can help understand past injustices while shaping a fairer future. The discussion highlights the importance of engaging diverse community voices, facilitating uncomfortable conversations, and employing innovative strategies for inclusion. Dorsey also playfully compares curiosity to headphones and pickles, illustrating its transformative potential in personal and societal growth.

Wilma Jones, an author and community activist known for her work on Arlington's historically Black neighborhoods, shares her journey in tracing her family history through her book, "My Halls Hill Family." She highlights the importance of embracing curiosity to understand our roots and the social context of our communities. The discussion includes the significance of preserving stories from Halls Hill, recognizing the challenges of property ownership for Black residents post-Civil War, and celebrating local history through community events.

Discover the rich tapestry of stories from Arlington, VA, as two compelling narratives intertwine. Explore the significance of personal histories in a historically Black neighborhood and the impact of community engagement amid change. Hear how storytelling fuels curiosity and shapes personal and business journeys. This celebration of oral history highlights the transformative power of sharing experiences and understanding diverse perspectives, drawing connections through legacy and heritage.

Join photographers and sound artists as they explore the transformative power of perspective in art and life. Discover how shifting viewpoints can lead to new insights and creative breakthroughs. The conversation dives into the aural landscape, highlighting the beauty of urban sounds and the comfort found in listening closely. Curiosity emerges as a vital tool for understanding both visual and auditory experiences, unlocking deeper connections to our surroundings. It's all about stopping, looking, and truly listening!

Fine art photographer Jason Horowitz, renowned for merging representation and abstraction in his landscapes, dives into the transformative power of curiosity in art. He discusses how changing one’s perspective can unveil the extraordinary in the ordinary. Jason shares insights on the technical magic of digital photospheres and the importance of continual practice. He also contrasts expansive landscapes with intimate details, urging listeners to embrace their own curiosity to enrich their viewing and creative experiences.

Discover the fascinating world of animal curiosity sparked by a student's query about dog behaviors. Dive into the dedicated work of animal keepers at the National Zoo and learn how they enhance animal well-being through thoughtful enrichment. Explore the intriguing parenting strategies of apes, where curiosity plays a key role in nurturing. Uncover the joyful exploration and playful interactions among parent animals and their young, emphasizing the importance of engagement in the animal kingdom. Curiosity is not just human; it's a vital part of life for many species!

The discussion kicks off with a philosophical question about animal curiosity, taking listeners on a journey from the Amazon to the Shenandoah Mountains. A visit to the National Zoo reveals fascinating behavioral differences among species and their social dynamics. The spotlight shifts to the Great Smoky Mountains, home to the world's highest diversity of salamanders, exploring how isolation fosters speciation. The episode encourages a connection between local biodiversity and broader ecological themes.

Explore the wonders of nature with insights from a founder passionate about biodiversity in urban spaces. Discover how embracing curiosity can transform everyday observations into joyful experiences. Meanwhile, a journey across the nation in an RV highlights the thrill of on-the-go discoveries. In just five minutes, learn to pay attention, be astonished, and share your adventures!

Alonso Abugattas, a local naturalist and environmental educator in D.C., shares his passion for the natural world through his platform, Capital Naturalist. He discusses how childhood experiences shaped his curiosity and connection to nature. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging with urban biodiversity, community science initiatives, and the intricate relationships within ecosystems. Alonso encourages listeners to embrace curiosity through playful analogies, inspiring a joyful exploration of nature’s hidden wonders in their own backyards.