
Choose to be Curious
Choose to be Curious is a show all about curiosity. We talk about research and theory, but mostly it's conversations about how curiosity shows up in work and life.
Now syndicated and available via Pacifica RadioNetwork.
Latest episodes

Apr 4, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #225: A Special Alchemy: Curiosity, Empathy & Social Media, with Dr. Ben Rein
Neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein discusses empathy, science communication, and social media. He uses TikTok and Instagram to summarize research, teach neuroscience, and debunk misinformation. The conversation highlights the unique blend of curiosity, empathy, and social media. Topics include empathy in neuroscience, combating misinformation, and the power of curiosity in informal science communication.

Mar 27, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #224: Curiosity, Community Radio & Choosing to Trust, with Katya Gordon
Author, journalist, sailor, and community radio host Katya Gordon discusses curiosity, spirituality, media biases, and the power of trust. They explore community radio's impact in fostering inclusive conversations, empathy in combating bias, and curiosity practices for communal progress. Gordon likens curiosity to a saucepan, highlighting its role in responding to discomfort and pain.

Mar 21, 2024 • 28min
EP. #223: The Social Side of Curiosity at Work, with Phil Thompson PhD
Phil Thompson PhD, a professor in the Department of Management at the Pamplin School of Business, discusses the social side of curiosity at work. Topics include gender differences in micro-organizational behaviors, the impact of curiosity on job performance, the importance of vulnerability in leadership, and fostering a culture of constructive curiosity in organizations.

Mar 12, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #222: Lessons in Curiosity from CreativeMornings with Regina Buono & Jess Whalen
Explore the essence of CreativeMornings with Regina Buono and Jess Whalen. Topics include creating a culture of connection, power of listening, empathetic listening, and unleashing curiosity's impact. Discover how curiosity can energize and adapt in personal and professional settings.

Mar 5, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #221: Seeing LIke a Location Scout, with Aaron Hurvitz
Aaron Hurvitz, a renowned movie location scout, shares insights on his work for films like Joker and Indiana Jones. The podcast explores the role of curiosity and patience in his job, the process of location scouting, and the importance of embracing serendipitous opportunities. The conversation highlights how location scouts shape our perception of movies.

Feb 28, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #220: Superpower: Curiosity & Athletic Performance, with Addie Bracy
Professional ultra trail runner Addie Bracy discusses how curiosity enhances decision-making, behavior, and athletic performance. They explore the mental challenges of ultra-distance mountain running, the value of seeking help, separating ego, and perceiving failure as feedback. Curiosity is highlighted as a motivator for achieving ambitious athletic goals and continuous learning.

Feb 22, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #219: Curiosity in Work, Life, Politics & Sports, with Matt Rogers
Political strategist Matt Rogers discusses the risks of incuriosity in politics, sports, and personal relationships. He emphasizes the importance of remaining objective, handling political attacks, and continuous self-assessment. The podcast delves into the evolution of political curiosity, the impact of data centers, and navigating transitions in a rural community.

Feb 14, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #218: Curiosity & Brain Health, with Dr. Julie Fratantoni
Dr. Julie Fratantoni, a cognitive neuroscientist, discusses how curiosity contributes to brain health and the science of neuroplasticity. Topics include enhancing brain health, the role of curiosity in aging, connection between curiosity and kindness, cultivating kindness as a skill, the Great Brain Gain movement, and analogies of curiosity with ice and radio.

Feb 8, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #217: Ten Thousand Friends, with Rob Lawless
Rob Lawless, who aims to have one-on-one conversations with 10,000 people, discusses his project. They explore the meaning behind 10,000 connections, their daily routine of meeting people, and surprises encountered. They also talk about expanding perspectives, comparing curiosity to different objects, and expressing gratitude.

Feb 1, 2024 • 28min
Ep. #216: Curiosity & Aging, with Michiko Sakaki
Michiko Sakaki, an expert in aging and curiosity, discusses how curiosity positively impacts aging, challenges stereotypes, and explores adaptive aging. The conversation includes analogies with random objects and the empowering warmth of curiosity in life.