Choose to be Curious

Discover how curiosity can transform you into a smarter citizen of the world. Learn insights from radio host Bunmi Akinnusotu on the importance of staying informed about global affairs. Teacher Patricia Hunt discusses news literacy and the value of diverse perspectives in understanding complex issues. In just five minutes, you'll gain practical tips for critical engagement with the news, empowering your personal growth and worldview.

Bunmi Akinnusotu, a producer and host for WERA-LP 96.7FM, dives into the transformative power of curiosity in world affairs. They explore how simple observations, like those about avocados, can reveal the complexities of global trade. The conversation connects curiosity with courage, emphasizing its role in fostering understanding and peace. Bunmi also discusses America's cautious approach to learning about other cultures, advocating for inclusivity in global dialogues to enrich perspectives and deepen connections.

Curiosity drives us throughout life, and it’s never too late to embrace it! Discover how staying curious can enhance learning and social connections, especially for those over 50. Hear insights from Marjorie Varner and personal reflections on cultivating lifelong curiosity. Engage with community initiatives that promote continuous growth and exploration, proving that age is just a number when it comes to learning.

Marjorie Varner, the Executive Director of Encore Learning, sheds light on the transformative power of curiosity, especially as we age. She discusses how lifelong learning not only enriches lives but also boosts cognitive health and memory. Marjorie explores the vibrant community at Encore Learning, dedicated to adults over 50. She emphasizes the idea that engaging in new learning experiences can challenge stereotypes and support a growth mindset. The conversation is filled with creative analogies and practical insights into maintaining curiosity throughout life.

Explore how curiosity transforms urban spaces through walking and engagement with public art. Discover the hidden emotions tied to city infrastructure. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a farmer's market, emphasizing the joy of being present and savoring sensory details. Learn how embracing curiosity can foster deeper community connections and enrich everyday life.

Graham Coreil-Allen, a Baltimore-based social practice artist and radical pedestrianist, explores the intersection of curiosity and urban placemaking. He delves into the concept of 'desire lines,' revealing how our natural paths shape communities. The conversation highlights the transformative power of public art and community engagement, offering insights on enhancing overlooked spaces into vibrant cultural hubs. Listeners are encouraged to embrace curiosity and actively connect with their environments through civic initiatives and engaging walks.

Delve into the fascinating nature of curiosity, exploring its scientific roots and the language we use to express it. Discover how societal views shape our understanding, particularly through a gender lens. The discussion highlights the journey from Eve's exploration to Nancy Drew's influence on young girls. Additionally, links are made to literary giants like Milton, showcasing curiosity's importance in personal growth and cultural representation.

Dr. Tonya Howe, an associate professor at Marymount University, dives into the intricate relationship between curiosity and femininity. She discusses how historical narratives, from Eve to modern literature, frame women’s curiosity as both a pursuit of knowledge and a transgression. The podcast explores the societal fears surrounding female curiosity, the impact of women writers, and how language shapes perceptions of desire. With playful analogies, they celebrate curiosity's creativity, prompting a reexamination of biases that persist today.

Explore the dynamic relationship between curiosity and entrepreneurship. The conversation highlights how asking meaningful questions fuels innovation. It dives into the resilience and adaptability of immigrants in overcoming challenges. Also, discover whether inspiration is truly seeking a place to land. In just five engaging minutes, the discussion illuminates the power of curiosity in driving the entrepreneurial spirit.

Co-founder and President of Phone2Action Ximena Hartsock has a lot to say about curiosity and the entrepreneurial spirit in this wide-ranging conversation about innovation and risk-taking. What's not to love about a Latina "Tech Titan" with a passion for advocacy and public service? Be sure to join us next time when Tonya Howe, professor of language and literature at Marymount University, gets going on the tangled relationship between women, curiosity and our literary traditions. Is curiosity a feminist issue? You decide.