Choose to be Curious

In a compelling discussion, Scott Nycum, who focuses on culture and engagement at CSRA, dives into the relationship between curiosity and trust. He emphasizes that asking questions out of genuine curiosity is essential for building deeper connections. The conversation also explores how curiosity can create meaningful interactions, as well as the components of the trust equation: credibility, reliability, and intimacy. Scott highlights the importance of mindful curiosity in both personal and professional relationships, paving the way for innovation and growth.

Monique Brown, a dedicated facilitator in Arlington's Challenging Racism program, discusses the necessity of intentional action and curiosity in combating racism. They dive into an 11-week workshop addressing microaggressions and systemic inequality in schools, fostering open dialogue through storytelling. The conversation highlights historical injustices like redlining, illuminating their lasting effects on generational wealth. Monique emphasizes the importance of courageous conversations and active engagement, encouraging listeners to participate in the fight against racism.

Join Kate Graham, the Coordinator of Early Childhood and Pre-K Programs for Arlington Public Schools, as she takes us on a journey through the world of childhood curiosity. She shares insights on how early education fosters inquisitiveness, drawing from theories of pioneers like Dewey and Piaget. The conversation highlights the importance of nurturing diverse learning environments where questions and exploration thrive. Plus, hear about community initiatives like the 'Week of the Young Child' that celebrate and engage families in early education.

Explore the vibrant Arlington Farmers Market, a true feast for the senses! Discover how to make soap, taste unique olive oils, and learn the secrets of storing mushrooms. Hear the stories of the vendors, from where the best fruits grow to the sounds of charango music. This lively atmosphere encourages a deeper connection with local culture and invites you to embrace curiosity. Prepare to be inspired by the delicious finds and heartfelt tales that shape this community gem!

Join Patricia Hunt, a dedicated US and Virginia government teacher, as she dives into the crucial topic of news literacy in today's digital age. She discusses how to discern credible news from misinformation and introduces the Checkology platform to help students develop critical evaluation skills. Patricia emphasizes the role of curiosity in understanding current events and government policies, while highlighting the challenges young people face with media bias and clickbait. This lively conversation inspires listeners to actively engage with the news responsibly.

A refreshing conversation with two young immigrants about how curiosity helps in acclimating to a new place -- and feeds their hunger to learn ore. Get past the hype of recent headlines and come enjoy a lovely half hour with these wise students, Anderson Escobar and Mariami Shengalia. And an added bonus conversation with Arturo Ramirez as he reflects on regaining curiosity and finding inspiration in his homeland. Join us next time when Wakefield High School teacher Patricia Hunt joins us to talk about new literacy. Where do we get our news -- and how do we know it is reliable? Curiosity is critical!

Join Carlisle Levine, an expert in international development and peacebuilding evaluation, as she unpacks the intricacies of curiosity in understanding program effectiveness. She shares personal anecdotes that highlight the need for systematic assessment and the emotional resistance organizations face in evaluating their efforts. Levine discusses balancing structured evaluation tools with open-ended inquiry and emphasizes the power of unexpected alliances and diverse perspectives in revealing deeper insights. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of curiosity's role in humanitarian efforts!

Join Sarah Priestman, a dedicated mother to a transgender child, and her child, Evie Priestman, who has inspired many with their TEDx talk. They delve into the complexities of gender identity, emphasizing the power of pronouns and the need for respectful dialogue. Evie encourages curiosity as a means to deepen understanding. They share heartwarming insights on navigating transitions and the vital role of community support. With playful analogies, they remind listeners of the importance of unconditional love and acceptance for all identities.

In this insightful conversation, psychotherapist Kate McCauley, founder of the Center for Parents and Teens, and Michael Swisher, asset liaison for Arlington Partnership for Children, Youth, and Families, emphasize the joy and importance of curiosity during adolescence. They discuss strategies for fostering curiosity in youth, the interplay between identity and independence, and how effective communication can enhance connection. Their perspectives provide valuable insights into nurturing the critical developmental stage of adolescence.

Dr. Megan Price, Director of the Insight Conflict Resolution Program at George Mason University, explores the surprising link between curiosity and conflict resolution. She highlights how questioning can lead to better understanding in conflicts and the cognitive processes that aid decision-making. The conversation underscores the importance of self-awareness and curiosity when navigating conflict behaviors. Dr. Price shares practical strategies for fostering dialogue and personal accountability, emphasizing that curiosity is essential for growth and effective resolution.