

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

27 snips
Sep 3, 2023 • 37min
161. How Effective Are Ultimatums?
How effective are ultimatums in relationships? The conversation dives into their complex nature, from romance to parenting, revealing how they can be manipulative yet necessary. The hosts explore compassionate ultimatums that promote honest communication and share anecdotes, including one involving Elon Musk. They even touch on a listener's take about nonverbal cues and self-confidence, wrapping up with a light-hearted invitation for audience stories and a tease for the next topic on self-compassion.

75 snips
Aug 27, 2023 • 40min
160. How Do You Like Me Now?
Explore the intriguing psychology behind successful individuals and their desire to confront naysayers. Delve into the complexities of bragging, insecurity, and the quest for validation. Discover how performance in hip hop highlights hidden vulnerabilities, often masked by bravado. Reflect on the dynamics of attention and humility in social interactions and the power of public acknowledgment. Enjoy a humorous take on relationship commitments, blending personal insights with engaging anecdotes throughout the conversation.

60 snips
Aug 20, 2023 • 34min
159. How Much Personal Space Do You Need?
Explore the nuances of personal space and how it affects our health and relationships. Discover the psychology behind why some people invade your bubble and how technology complicates our boundaries. Insightful anecdotes offer a glimpse into cultural differences in comfort levels. The conversation also dives into the neuroscience of personal boundaries and how distraction from devices can impact focus and well-being. Tune in for tips on maintaining that essential personal space in a connected world.

34 snips
Aug 13, 2023 • 29min
158. Bigger Fish, or Bigger Pond?
Explore the intriguing dilemma: is it better to shine in a struggling team or to blend in with stars? Discover Angela's humorous struggles with her freshman dorm mates and the surprising dynamics of personal growth. Delve into basketball legends and the value of individual accolades versus team success. The conversation includes insights on how environments influence personal achievements, all wrapped in funny anecdotes and listener engagement!

54 snips
Aug 6, 2023 • 39min
157. How Can You Get Closer to the People You Care About?
Explore the art of deepening connections with those you care about. Discover how intentional listening and effective communication can transform your relationships. Learn about the importance of vulnerability and sharing personal stories to foster empathy. Dive into the significance of pauses in conversation and how they can enhance intimacy. Plus, hear personal anecdotes about forming friendships through shared experiences. Get ready to take your connections to the next level!

98 snips
Jul 30, 2023 • 41min
156. How Do You Connect With Someone You Just Met?
How vulnerable should you be with coworkers? The hosts discuss the benefits of sharing personal stories, including a heartfelt look at family relationships. They dive into effective strategies for connecting with new acquaintances and explore the emotional ties to cherished possessions and childhood experiences. Playful visions of ideal days filled with adventure and nature add a light-hearted touch, reminding us of the importance of meaningful interactions. Tune in for insights that could transform your next conversation!

92 snips
Jul 23, 2023 • 44min
155. How Do You Deal With Big Life Changes?
What’s more stressful: divorce or jail? The speakers explore the emotional turbulence that comes with major life changes and share personal experiences of navigating these shifts. They offer strategies for rethinking challenges positively, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments. The discussion also addresses the societal pressures surrounding life transitions, all while keeping it light-hearted with humorous anecdotes about Martha Stewart's life. Listener stories add depth, showcasing the community's shared experiences in dealing with life’s uncertainties.

25 snips
Jul 16, 2023 • 30min
154. Why Is There So Much Social Pressure Around Alcohol?
Explore the intricate dance between social pressure and alcohol consumption. Dive into personal stories highlighting why some choose to abstain, while others feel the tug of societal norms. Discover the health impacts of not drinking and the evolving attitudes toward it. A humorous skydiving anecdote reveals deeper thoughts on binge drinking trends. Plus, listeners chime in on personal choices and perceptions of beauty, showcasing the diverse experiences surrounding this common social issue.

26 snips
Jul 9, 2023 • 32min
153. Should You Spend More Time in Nature?
Is a stroll through the concrete jungle just as fulfilling as one in the woods? Tune in as the hosts share hilarious urban adventures while reflecting on nature's healing powers. Discover how perceptions of natural beauty have evolved, and the impact of technology on our outdoor experiences. They also dive into the balance between personal time and social obligations. Plus, a fascinating look at animal color perception keeps the conversation engaging and light-hearted!

30 snips
Jul 2, 2023 • 33min
152. What’s the Worst Kind of Regret?
What’s worse: regretting actions taken or missed opportunities? The hosts dive into the emotional layers of both types of regret. They share humorous personal anecdotes that highlight the pitfalls of social media interactions. Insights from psychological research reveal the lasting impacts of action versus inaction. Plus, hear about the surprising writer who inspired a host to give up driving. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and the lessons learned from embracing both regret and growth.


