Choose to be Curious

In a weekend dedicated to curiosity, the host embarks on a whirlwind adventure filled with tornadoes and local brew tastings. They share a passion for weather forecasting, revealing its complexity and connections to childhood experiences. Mindfulness takes center stage as they explore historical sites and community narratives. The dialogue shifts to inclusivity within veteran organizations, aiming to bridge generational divides and foster connections. Celebrating curiosity leads to community engagement through art, encouraging listeners to embrace exploration every day.

Naren Ramakrishnan, director of Virginia Tech's Discovery Analytics Center (DAC), joins me to talk about how he and his colleagues use big data to do things like predict flu epidemics using decidedly non-medical information like Tweets and restaurant reservations. Curiosity + big data = fascinating results! Join us next time when we celebrate our 50th episode: a whole weekend of walking the choose to be curious talk...

Dive into the world where curiosity and data intersect! Discover how understanding diseases, like the flu, requires detective-like questioning of big data anomalies. Listen as experts reveal how answers to our challenges often lie in plain sight, waiting to be uncovered. Unleash your inner sleuth and learn to find unexpected insights in the most overlooked places!

Elliot Carter, the DC Chief Explorer for Atlas Obscura, dives into the wonders hidden in familiar locales. He emphasizes how curiosity can transform everyday explorations into thrilling adventures. Listeners will be captivated by stories of lesser-known attractions in Washington, D.C., and the compelling histories they unveil. Carter shares insights on using platforms like Atlas Obscura to discover unique experiences and reflects on how these explorations foster personal connections with the past.

Spring invites us to wander with open eyes! Discover hidden wonders in Washington D.C. and the vibrant beauty of Lisbon. Elliot Carter shares fascinating insights into well-known places, revealing their lesser-known stories. Karen Ward encourages us to see the world afresh, reminding us that curiosity can transform everyday surroundings into extraordinary experiences. Immerse yourself in this delightful exploration of wonder and discovery!

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.

Dive into the fascinating history of remote controls and their unexpected origins in the 1930s. Discover the transformative power of attention in everyday life and how it enhances our understanding of ordinary objects. Enjoy a charming exploration of the role of librarians, with heartfelt anecdotes highlighting their influence on curiosity and learning. Embrace the thrill of chasing hidden histories and the unexpected delights of curiosity in our daily 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.

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.