Choose to be Curious

Join Georgetown professor Caetlin Benson-Allott, an expert in U.S. film history and author of Remote Control, as she explores the transformative power of attention. She delves into the hidden stories behind ordinary objects, demonstrating how mindfulness can unveil deeper meanings in everyday experiences. The conversation also touches on the effects of digital media on curiosity and how intricate connections shape our perceptions of objects, reminding us of their significance in our lives.

Delve into the emotional journeys of searching for family connections and personal identities. Discover Sondra Kolker’s quest for her unknown father, revealing the deep complexities of curiosity. Then, explore Evie and Sarah Priestman’s navigation of gender identity, emphasizing the respectful approach to understanding oneself and others. In just over six minutes, these captivating stories spotlight the powerful intersection of family, identity, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Sondra Kolker, a relentless seeker of her biological father, shares her powerful journey filled with curiosity and emotional discovery. Joined by her son, David Kolker, they explore the profound impact of genealogical research on identity and belonging. Listeners are taken through heartfelt moments involving cherished family heirlooms and poignant memories. The narrative showcases the bittersweet joy of connecting with lost relatives and emphasizes the universal desire to understand one's roots.

Join an engaging conversation about the joys of curiosity with insights from astrophysicist Dr. Mario Livio and educator Micaela Pond. They celebrate the value of children's questions and how fostering curiosity can lead to a better society. The discussion highlights the need to nurture inquisitiveness in education, counteracting societal pressures that often stifle it. Discover how a curiosity epidemic could transform learning and promote critical thinking in students!

Dr. Mario Livio, an internationally-known astrophysicist and author, dives into the intriguing nature of curiosity. He explains how curiosity can help combat fear and drive scientific progress. The conversation covers the different types of curiosity—perceptual, epistemic, diversive, and specific—and how each affects behavior and motivation. Livio also highlights the fascinating synergy between science and music, showcasing how understanding scientific concepts enriches the experience of classical compositions. Curiosity, he argues, is essential for personal and societal growth.

Join Felonious Munk, an introspective comedian from Second City, alongside Calvin Evans, an observational philosopher and fellow ensemble member, as they explore the art of comedy and its deep roots in human observation. They discuss how humor reflects modern philosophy, tackling themes of race and politics. The conversation dives into the emotional spectrum of comedy, especially within the Black community, where laughter intertwines with sorrow. With playful banter and creative metaphors, they highlight curiosity as a transformative force in storytelling and connection.

Felonious Munk, a comedian and Second City ensemble member, joins fellow comedians Calvin Evans and Odinaka Ezeokoli for an engaging discussion on the intersection of curiosity and comedy. They highlight how observational humor unveils deeper truths about society, especially regarding race and gender. The trio shares personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in connecting with audiences. Their playful exploration of curiosity, likened to the sweetness of honey and even weeds, showcases how paying attention to life enriches our narratives and growth.

Discover the intriguing link between comedy and trauma as experts discuss how curiosity enhances our understanding of life's challenges. Listen as they shine a light on the role of humor in addressing serious issues like incarceration. Trust and relationships emerge as key factors in fostering curiosity, even in tough situations. Get ready for a blend of laughter and deep insights that prompt reflection on personal and societal struggles.

Explore the rich narratives hidden in our everyday surroundings. Discover how local legacy businesses in Arlington preserve community history amidst change. Experience the transformative power of curiosity as a social practice artist invites you to engage with your environment. Embrace a new way of seeing the world by slowing down, connecting with emotions, and walking through your neighborhood. Unearth the stories that shape your local landscape in just a few minutes!

Valeria Gelman, an urban planner and graduate student at Virginia Tech, is launching "The Local Shop" on WERA to share oral histories from Arlington's legacy businesses. She emphasizes the significance of curiosity in storytelling and its role in preserving community narratives. Listeners learn about the emotional experiences of business owners, including the impact of segregation on the black community through the story of Friendly Cab. Gelman also discusses the joy of exploration, using unique analogies to illustrate the essence of curiosity in our lives.