No Stupid Questions
Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher
Research psychologist Angela Duckworth (author of "Grit") and tech and sports executive Mike Maughan really like to ask people questions, and they believe there’s no such thing as a stupid one. So they have a podcast where they can ask each other as many “stupid questions” as they want. New episodes each week. "No Stupid Questions" is a production of the Freakonomics Radio Network.
To get every show in the Freakonomics Radio Network without ads and a monthly bonus episode of Freakonomics Radio, start a free trial for SiriusXM Podcasts+ on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
To get every show in the Freakonomics Radio Network without ads and a monthly bonus episode of Freakonomics Radio, start a free trial for SiriusXM Podcasts+ on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
Episodes
Mentioned books
54 snips
Jun 2, 2024 • 40min
198. What Does It Mean to Be “Cool”?
What makes someone cool versus just popular? The discussion dives into generational shifts in fashion and trends, highlighting the playful disagreements they ignite. Social media's role in defining coolness is examined, along with the curious connection between Taylor Swift and Walmart. The transformation of niche styles to mainstream trends showcases how authenticity and activism now define what it means to be cool. Plus, whimsical childhood lies are explored, prompting a nostalgic look at how such stories shape perceptions.
21 snips
May 26, 2024 • 39min
197. Is It Wrong to Lie to Children?
The hosts dive into the ethics of lying to children, pondering why myths like the Tooth Fairy bring joy and what that means for parenting. They discuss the fine line between harmless tales and potential harm to emotional development. Balancing honesty with empathy is examined, revealing when withholding the truth might be more beneficial. Cultural nuances in parenting styles and societal values shed light on how honesty and deception coexist in modern family dynamics. Personal anecdotes and listener feedback add a rich layer to the conversation.
25 snips
May 23, 2024 • 34min
Extra: Angela Duckworth on “Masters of Scale”
Jeff Berman, CEO of WaitWhat and host of the podcast "Masters of Scale," chats with Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist known for her research on grit. They delve into her unique journey from medicine to education, emphasizing the impact of passion on personal choices. The conversation shifts to transforming education for underserved children and the role of community in fostering success. They discuss how grit is not only about perseverance but also about seeking mentorship and collaboration on the path to achievement.
34 snips
May 19, 2024 • 39min
196. What’s Wrong With Being a Little Neurotic?
Explore the surprising upside of negative emotions and how comedians like Ali Wong use humor to confront pain. The hosts dive into the complexities of neuroticism, discussing personal anecdotes and coping strategies for emotional challenges. They highlight the role of maturity in managing anxiety and how creativity can transform struggles into healing experiences. Plus, discover how engaging with the world can alleviate worries and foster meaningful relationships for personal growth.
61 snips
May 12, 2024 • 39min
195. Can You Be Too Nice?
The hosts dive into the fine line between being kind and being a doormat. They explore how agreeableness can impact success and relationships, sharing insights on the need for healthy conflict. Personal stories unpack the paradox of being too nice, including effects on happiness and career. The conversation also touches on regional influences on personality traits and the complexities surrounding people's tendencies to please others. It's a humorous yet insightful exploration of kindness and self-respect.
76 snips
May 5, 2024 • 36min
194. Is It Okay to Be an Introvert?
What really distinguishes introversion from shyness? The hosts dive into personal experiences and psychological insights, exploring societal biases that favor extroverts. They discuss how introverts navigate a world geared towards social butterflies, while also celebrating the strengths of introverted personalities. With engaging anecdotes and references to psychological theory, the conversation reveals the profound impact of personality traits on relationships and well-being, challenging cultural norms around extroversion.
72 snips
Apr 28, 2024 • 39min
193. Are You as Conscientious as You Think You Are?
Is making your bed really a game changer? The hosts dissect the unexpected benefits of hiring less motivated workers. They also dive into the importance of personal habits and how they shape our conscientiousness. From keystone habits to the paradox of productivity, the conversation unveils the complexities of being diligent. Plus, hear inspiring stories about stepping outside comfort zones, from skydiving to teaching abroad, illustrating transformative experiences along the way.
137 snips
Apr 21, 2024 • 40min
Should You Get Out of Your Comfort Zone?
What drives creativity? The episode dives into the Big Five personality trait of openness, revealing how it fosters intellectual curiosity and diverse perspectives. Listeners share inspiring stories about stepping outside their comfort zones for personal growth. Discover how childhood exploration influences adult success and the balance between trying new experiences versus sticking to the familiar. Personal anecdotes highlight how engaging in new hobbies cultivates adventure, proving that growth often lies just beyond our comfort zones.
84 snips
Apr 14, 2024 • 39min
191. Can You Change Your Personality?
Can your personality really change over time? The discussion reveals how life experiences can shape traits like extroversion and agreeableness. There's an interesting exploration into emotional growth, especially contrasting the tumult of adolescence with the stability of adulthood. Intentional changes in personality aren't just a dream; the As-If Principle showcases the power of positive perspective shifts. Plus, hear about how different social contexts can influence who we are, merging nostalgia with current identity. It's a deep dive into the malleability of our personalities!
38 snips
Apr 7, 2024 • 35min
190. What’s the Point of Nostalgia?
Nostalgia serves as a comforting escape during stressful times, but its bittersweet nature can also bring anxiety. The discussion dives into how collective nostalgia impacts cultural progress, particularly with the trend of movie remakes. Personal identities are shaped by cherished memories, offering comfort amid challenges. The emotional power of nostalgia, both as a coping mechanism and a reflection of individual experiences, reveals its complex role in enhancing well-being while also posing potential pitfalls.
