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
64 snips
Jan 21, 2024 • 36min
179. Can You Really “Manifest” Success Through Positive Visualization?
Dive into the intriguing world of manifestation! Explore whether positive visualization and belief can genuinely shape success, with fascinating examples from famous figures like Jim Carrey. Discover the psychological foundations behind these concepts, as well as the limitations when dreaming without a plan. The discussion also touches on the cultural impact of manifestation, especially its surge on TikTok, and emphasizes the blend of mental imagery with actionable strategies for achieving goals.
57 snips
Jan 14, 2024 • 37min
178. Do Kids Need More Independence?
Is today's parenting too protective? A thought-provoking discussion reveals how modern fears can hinder children's independence and contribute to mental health issues. Through captivating anecdotes and cultural comparisons, the speakers highlight the benefits of autonomy in child development. They explore a Japanese reality show showcasing kids' independence, sparking debate on societal norms. As they redefine success, they encourage parents to balance protection with freedom, highlighting the positive impact of letting children navigate challenges on their own.
121 snips
Jan 7, 2024 • 38min
177. What Does Success Look Like?
What does success really mean? The discussion dives into personal definitions, challenging societal expectations. From Olympic gold medals to meaningful personal journeys, listeners are encouraged to reflect on what fulfillment looks like for them. Insights from legendary coaches and athletes highlight the importance of growth over achievements. The exploration of listener experiences adds a community dimension, revealing that success is unique to each individual. Ultimately, it's all about living authentically and embracing your path.
90 snips
Dec 31, 2023 • 37min
63. How Contagious Is Behavior? With Laurie Santos of “The Happiness Lab.” (Replay)
Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor and host of "The Happiness Lab," joins to discuss intriguing topics about human behavior and happiness. They explore why we unconsciously mimic others, like adopting accents or gestures. Santos delves into the paradox of success, revealing why achieving goals often leads to dissatisfaction. This conversation also unpacks the hedonic treadmill, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and gratitude in cultivating happiness. It's a thought-provoking look at how our behaviors can shape our emotional well-being.
84 snips
Dec 24, 2023 • 40min
176. Why Is It So Hard to Make Decisions?
Discover why too many choices can leave us feeling overwhelmed. Explore the humorous side of decision-making dilemmas, from car purchases to holiday planning. Dive into analysis paralysis and its psychological roots, learning how factors like emotions and cognitive biases complicate our choices. Unpack the idea of choice fatigue and the need for balance in a world of endless options. Plus, hear personal stories that reveal how trusting relationships can ease decision woes. Perfect for anyone seeking clarity in a complex world!
27 snips
Dec 17, 2023 • 38min
175. Why Is Astrology So Popular?
Why is astrology capturing the hearts of many? The conversation dives into the allure of horoscopes and the booming astrology industry, filled with personalized insights. Amid skepticism, listeners explore how cognitive biases shape beliefs in astrological predictions. Discussions touch on the fascinating overlap between astrology and personality tests, revealing how these systems provide comfort in uncertain times. Personal experiences and the cultural shift towards the occult highlight a blend of curiosity and skepticism in modern life.
53 snips
Dec 10, 2023 • 36min
174. What’s the Point of I.Q. Testing?
The discussion dives into the controversial world of IQ testing and its implications for education and society. It questions the labeling of gifted students and the historical biases affecting test outcomes. Personal stories reveal how expectations can influence performance, highlighted by the Pygmalion effect. The speakers advocate for a more inclusive approach to intelligence, prioritizing curiosity over standardized scores. They also touch on language's impact in education and tease upcoming topics, creating a lively and thought-provoking conversation.
106 snips
Dec 3, 2023 • 35min
173. How Important Is Your Choice of Words?
What happens when psychology meets magic? The speakers delve into the intriguing intersection between word choice and unconscious bias, exploring how magic tricks reveal our subconscious decision-making. They discuss the power of praise vs. admiration, emphasizing language's role in shaping self-perception and identity. A former NFL quarterback's transition to academia sparks insights on motivation influenced by word choice. The engaging conversation challenges listeners to reflect on their own language use and its impact on behavior and personal growth.
38 snips
Nov 26, 2023 • 53min
149. Is It Harder to Make Friends as an Adult? (Replay)
In this engaging discussion, Gabrielle Hamilton, renowned chef and author of "Blood, Bones & Butter," dives into the complexities of adult friendships. She explores how relationships evolve as we age and the dwindling opportunities for meaningful connections. Hamilton shares her humorous insights on joining social groups like bowling leagues while revealing the effort required to foster new friendships. Additionally, she reflects on her culinary journey, balancing artistry with leadership in the kitchen, and highlights the importance of community in both friendship and food.
38 snips
Nov 19, 2023 • 37min
172. Is Marriage Worth It?
Can long-term relationships be detrimental? The discussion dives into the murky waters of intimacy versus codependence. As marriage rates fall, guests share personal stories and research about the evolving nature of romantic bonds. Lifelong friendships are highlighted as essential for a fulfilling life. The conversation weighs the mental health implications of love and commitment, questioning if society's pressures shape our happiness. Is marriage still a priority, or do we need to redefine what fulfillment really means?
