Choose to be Curious

Innovation advisor Larry Robertson shares compelling insights on rebel leadership. He discusses the importance of self-disruption and adaptability for effective leadership. Collaboration and shared responsibility are at the heart of true leadership. Larry explores how purpose-driven leadership can transform a business by asking key questions, drawing inspiration from figures like Naomi Osaka. His thoughts emphasize the need for introspection and holistic self-care, making for an enlightening conversation on navigating the complexities of modern leadership.

Take a dive into the significance of curiosity with fascinating insights on how it manifests in apes. A look back at the past eight and a half years reveals themes of courage and introspection. Prepare for an upcoming break filled with classic episodes inviting fresh engagement. Plus, get a sneak peek at exciting future conversations that promise to deepen our understanding of curiosity. It's a heartfelt thank-you to listeners, wrapped in the charm of anticipation for what’s to come!

Maria-Elena Montero, President of the DC Bird Alliance, shares her passion for birds and the unintentional beauty we often overlook. She discusses how the pandemic heightened interest in birdwatching, revealing a universe right in our backyards. Through personal anecdotes, she emphasizes community-driven initiatives that spark curiosity and appreciation for nature. Maria-Elena also reflects on overcoming fears through nature, highlighting how birding fosters personal growth and a deeper connection with the environment.

Cristie Mather is the President and Vice President of Food at Curious Plot, with over 15 years of expertise in food marketing. She dives into the concept of food curiosity and its transformative potential. Mather discusses the 'Watermelon Solution,' tackling consumer perceptions and food waste. She also explores how consumer curiosity impacts food marketing strategies, home cooking trends, and social media's role in shaping culinary preferences. With insights from the 2024 Consumer Curiosity Report, she emphasizes the evolving landscape of appetite and culinary exploration.

Adam Segel-Moss, a community engagement manager and avid hiker, shares his transformative experience of thru-hiking over a thousand miles on the Pacific Crest Trail. He reflects on the humor and emotional connections formed along the way, emphasizing nature’s power to inspire clarity and personal growth. The conversation explores the significance of tree rings, the joys of disconnecting from daily distractions, and how curiosity can enhance everyday life. Adam's journey is not just about hiking—it's about finding wonder and purpose in nature.

Maggie Jackson, an award-winning author and journalist known for her insights on social trends and technology, dives deep into the rich terrain of curiosity and uncertainty. She encourages listeners to see uncertainty not as a weakness, but as an opportunity for growth and innovation. The discussion touches on how discomfort can foster resilience, the role of intentional pauses for creativity, and practical ways to embrace unpredictability. Jackson’s perspective transforms uncertainty into a catalyst for exploration, inviting a flexible mindset in an ever-changing world.

Leland Ko, a talented cellist selected by Yo-Yo Ma for the Music-Art-Life program, dives deep into the art of music and curiosity. He discusses how curiosity shapes not just performance but interpretation, particularly in classical pieces like Bach. Leland shares insights on connecting with audiences through eye contact, enhancing emotional experiences during live performances. He also explores the transformative power of music in fostering personal growth and community, encouraging listeners to embrace their own curiosity through creative analogies.

Rob Walker, a journalist and author renowned for his insightful work, 'The Art of Noticing,' discusses the power of curiosity and attention. He shares his joy in engaging in themed scavenger hunts, emphasizing the thrill found in everyday details. The conversation delves into how active engagement in our surroundings fosters meaningful discoveries and creativity. Walker encourages playful exploration, likening curiosity to a UFO, and highlights the importance of noticing in transforming mundane moments into opportunities for joy and innovation.

In this engaging discussion, Abby Hsiung, a user experience researcher at Meta, and Alison Adcock, director of the Center for Cognitive Neuroscience at Duke University, explore how curiosity fosters patience in our pursuit of knowledge. They challenge the notion that curiosity demands immediate satisfaction, suggesting instead that slowing down enhances learning. The duo dives into the dynamic nature of curiosity, the role of uncertainty in exploration, and how fostering a curious mindset can lead to greater joy and fulfillment in life.

Marc Abrahams, founder of the Ig Nobel Prizes and editor of the Annals of Improbable Research, shares insights into the delightful world of humorous and quirky scientific achievements. He discusses how these awards celebrate unconventional research that provokes laughter and contemplation. The conversation covers amusing examples, like the unique treatment for hiccups through digital rectal massage, and emphasizes how surprise and humor fuel curiosity, inspiring listeners to embrace the absurdities of life.