Choose to be Curious

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.

Kevin Sampson, a producer and instructor at Arlington Independent Media, flips the script by interviewing Lynn Borton about her journey to curiosity. They discuss how curiosity can transform personal growth and strengthen connections. Lynn shares her insights from two decades at the National Alliance on Mental Illness, emphasizing empathy in mental health. The conversation playfully explores podcasting aspirations, and they invite listeners to engage with their own analogies of curiosity, underlining its importance in everyday life.

Jesse Robinson, a coordinator at WERA and an improv actor, dives into the intersection of curiosity and performance. He discusses the 'yes/and' principle and its importance in both improv and business. The conversation touches on how childhood curiosity, symbolized by dandelions, fosters creativity and spontaneity in everyday life. Jesse also shares insights on the collaborative nature of improv, emphasizing that curiosity can lead to not only joyful but also rewarding experiences outside the stage. Tune in for a mix of humor and wisdom!

Marty Swaim, a longtime educator and co-founder of Challenging Racism, and Monique Brown, a passionate community volunteer, engage in a powerful dialogue about curiosity's role in challenging systemic racism. They discuss how open-mindedness can counter discrimination and the importance of sharing stories to foster understanding. The conversation navigates the complexities of discussing race, advocating for personal responsibility and vulnerability. With insightful reflections on legacy and identity, they inspire listeners to approach conversations about racism with curiosity and compassion.

Dr. Raya Kheirbek is a dedicated VA doctor specializing in geriatric and palliative care, with a passion for narrative medicine. In her chat, she dives into the transformative power of personal storytelling in healthcare, asserting that everyday struggles can be heroic. Kheirbek illuminates how understanding patient narratives enhances empathy and improves health outcomes. She shares touching stories of veterans, emphasizing the emotional connections that foster healing, and explores curiosity's unpredictable nature through creative analogies.

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.