Choose to be Curious

Kelly Falkner, Director of the Division of Polar Research at the National Science Foundation, dives into the intertwined worlds of curiosity and science. She argues that curiosity sparks creativity and is essential for scientific discovery, not just for scientists but for everyone. Falkner discusses how nurturing curiosity is vital, especially for young learners and emphasizes breaking free from societal norms. The conversation also draws imaginative analogies to illustrate curiosity's unpredictable nature and its profound link to love and interpersonal connections.

Scott Nycum, Head of Organizational Effectiveness at CSRA, shares his insights on leadership and the essential role of curiosity. He emphasizes that curiosity is not just a desirable trait but a critical tool for effective leaders. Scott discusses how fostering open-ended questions can spark creativity and enhance team dynamics. He also introduces the 'gremlin and gizmo game' to address team interactions and promote positive transformation. With playful analogies, he highlights curiosity's transformative joy, urging leaders to embrace this vital skill.

Elizabeth Jones, the executive director of Offender Aid and Restoration of Arlington County, shares her insights on the profound interplay between curiosity, trauma, and incarceration. She discusses how trauma affects individuals both before and during incarceration, emphasizing the importance of curiosity in the re-entry process. The conversation delves into innovative programs that promote personal growth and reduce recidivism. Jones also highlights community involvement in addressing alternative sentencing and the need for curiosity in fostering relationships.

Brandon Charles, host of "Breaking Boundaries," discusses his journey living with blindness and the transformative power of curiosity in fostering empathy. He emphasizes how genuine questions can dismantle assumptions about disabilities and promote inclusivity. The conversation includes playful metaphors, such as a curiosity jar, demonstrating how curiosity can guide personal and professional growth. Brandon also highlights the unique contributions individuals with autism make in the workplace, advocating for authentic dialogues to break societal misconceptions.

Detective Sara Bertollini from the Arlington County Police Department dives into the intriguing world of law enforcement and the vital role curiosity plays in solving crimes. She shares her love for Sherlock Holmes and reflects on how his stories ignited her passion for detective work. Discover the stark reality of homicide investigations, community engagement initiatives, and the art of thorough information gathering. Sara also dispels common myths around forensic processes and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in her field.

Jenn Seiff, a yoga teacher at Om Joy Yoga, dives into body awareness and movement in this engaging conversation. She emphasizes listening to our bodies and how this awareness can transform our well-being. Jenn shares powerful stories, including insights from raising a child with a traumatic brain injury, and how curiosity can drive personal growth. The discussion also touches on the unique relationship between yoga instructors and students, highlighting empathy and mindfulness as tools in practice.

Tom King, a comic book writer and former CIA operative, shares his unique insights on curiosity and creativity. He explores whether Batman embodies curiosity and discusses the transformative power of stories. King reflects on how his espionage background informs his writing and the importance of empathy in storytelling. He also delves into the challenges of comic reboots and the collective bond fans share through iconic characters. Join this deep dive into the interplay between curiosity, crafts, and the beloved world of comics!

Beth Flores, a certified coach and professional storyteller, shares her insights on the art of asking beautiful questions. She emphasizes the transformative power of curiosity and how thoughtful inquiry can shape our lives. Flores discusses the importance of playful learning and engaging with diverse perspectives through ethnographic methods. She shares techniques to cultivate an inquisitive mindset, including the 4WH framework and the art of deep listening. This conversation will leave you reflecting on how to deepen your connections and creativity through questioning.

A.J. Smith, a talented songwriter and musician from Northern Virginia, dives into the vibrant interplay between curiosity and creativity. He shares insights on how curiosity fuels artistic expression and the role of storytelling in music. The conversation also highlights the significance of audience engagement during live performances. A.J. reflects on the songwriting process, discussing the balance of personal struggle and curiosity. With playful analogies, he invites listeners to rediscover their own sense of wonder and creativity.

Join Rev. Carolyn Richar, an ordained minister and Executive Director at Capital Caring, along with Junsen Nettles, a leader in the Tendai Buddhist tradition, for a captivating dialogue. They explore the concept of 'holy curiosity' in spirituality, emphasizing how it shapes personal journeys. The conversation delves into how the seminary experience fosters rich questions amidst the quest for answers, and how suffering can lead to profound insights. Listeners will find inspiration in how curiosity intertwines with faith, revealing deeper truths.