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
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.
83 snips
Jun 25, 2023 • 46min
151. Is It Okay to Be Average?
Is striving for excellence necessary, or is being average acceptable? The hosts explore the pressures of success and how personal definitions of fulfillment can vary. They discuss healthy versus neurotic perfectionism and the balance between ambition and contentment. The roles of superstars and rock stars in the workplace are highlighted, along with insights on parenting that prioritize happiness alongside achievement. They also touch on the darker side of trust, revealing clever scams that emphasize caution in financial matters.
14 snips
Jun 18, 2023 • 38min
150. Why Do People Get Scammed?
What makes scams so effective? The discussion dives into psychological factors that lead to gullibility, revealing unsettling personal stories and the emotional fallout of deceit. They also tackle the nature of scams in the age of AI and emphasize the need for awareness. By blending humor with cautionary tales, they explore historical examples like snake oil salesmen and introduce concepts like epistemic vigilance to help distinguish truth from deception. Join in for laughs and lessons on navigating trust in a world filled with manipulation!
54 snips
Jun 11, 2023 • 40min
149. Is It Harder to Make Friends as an Adult?
Friendships evolve as we grow older, with many adults finding it trickier to connect deeply. The impact of the pandemic on socializing is discussed, along with humorous anecdotes about bonding over shared experiences, like outdoor adventures. The role of community spaces and modern technology, including apps like Bumble BFF, is emphasized in fostering new relationships. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of friendships, with a playful look at how important our friends really are to us.
30 snips
Jun 4, 2023 • 40min
Do You Savor or Gobble? (Ep. 91 Replay)
Explore the intriguing divide between savers and gobblers in how we cherish experiences and possessions. Discover the psychological motivations behind binge-watching and how anticipation can shape our behaviors. Personal anecdotes illustrate the delicate balance between enjoying life's pleasures and the urge for instant gratification. Dive into philosophical discussions around historical references, investigating everything from apples to modern art. It's a thought-provoking journey into understanding our desires and choices.
33 snips
May 28, 2023 • 35min
148. What Is Fun, Exactly?
Why does time seem to speed up when we're enjoying ourselves? Discover the intriguing connections between fun, play, and our perception of time. Delve into the evolution of enjoyment, tracing its roots and cultural significance. Explore how shared experiences, like a memorable meal, can enhance our joy. Learn about playful interactions in animals, and even how laughter contributes to our happiness. This lively discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their own ideas of what makes activities truly fun.
33 snips
May 21, 2023 • 40min
147. Is Nudging Enough?
Can tossing a soda can in the recycling really make a difference? Discover the art of nudging and how it influences decision-making without compromising personal choice. The hosts dive into the psychological layers of self-identity and its impact on behaviors like recycling. They even relate nudging to learning through poker, uncovering how critical thinking can boost decision-making skills. Plus, hear stories of vulnerability from public performances that transform fear into joy, provoking reflection on the shared human experience.
93 snips
May 14, 2023 • 39min
146. How Do You Avoid Freezing Under Pressure?
Explore the intriguing dynamics of performing under pressure, comparing insights from poker and sports. Discover effective mental strategies like visualization and attentional focus to enhance decision-making in high-stress situations. Delve into the psychological impact of mistakes and the phenomenon of choking. The discussion also touches on the complexities of the 'hungry money' mindset in the arts, emphasizing the balance between creativity and financial pressures. Plus, listener feedback adds a cultural twist on scarcity and consumption!
62 snips
May 7, 2023 • 49min
145. Do You Have a Scarcity Mindset or an Abundance Mindset?
Dive into the contrasts between scarcity and abundance mindsets and their surprising effects on behavior and decision-making. Discover how real-world examples, like Microsoft's leadership shift, showcase the power of collaboration over competition. Hear personal stories, including a poignant lesson on opportunity costs from Stephen's mother. As the hosts reflect on their journey together, they hint at exciting future topics in behavioral science, leaving listeners with both nostalgia and anticipation for what’s next.
15 snips
Apr 30, 2023 • 44min
144. What Should Be the Eighth Deadly Sin?
Dive into a lively debate on what might qualify as the modern eighth deadly sin! The hosts unpack the emotional toll of perfectionism and how it affects mental health among younger generations. They tackle the complexities of discrimination, linking it to societal disrespect and internet trolling as potential moral transgressions. Apathy also receives a spotlight as a silent killer of progress. With humor and insight, they engage listeners to redefine our understanding of sin, hypocrisy, and the importance of respect in today’s world.
