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
23 snips
Feb 12, 2023 • 32min
Why Is It So Hard to Talk About Money? (Ep. 81 Replay)
Discussing money often feels taboo, rooted in cultural and psychological barriers. The podcast delves into how financial literacy can bridge this gap. There's a fascinating look at how wealth influences self-perception and social dynamics. Gender differences in comfort discussing finances also come into play. Personal anecdotes reveal the evolving nature of these conversations, highlighting a new openness about salaries and financial education. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their relationship with money and the impact of societal norms.
27 snips
Feb 5, 2023 • 38min
133. Can You Really Work on an Airplane?
Can you really be productive at 35,000 feet? Discover the quirks of working while traveling and why V8 tastes better in the air. With a humorous dive into the social dynamics between seatmates, the conversation touches on personal boundaries and psychological insights. Expect stories of unexpected connections and even the fascinating effects of altitude on taste. Plus, explore the value of small acts of kindness in the face of larger challenges, leaving you with a mix of insight and laughter.
24 snips
Jan 29, 2023 • 40min
132. Is It Wrong to Enjoy Yourself While the World Is Burning?
Are we overreacting to global crises, or is optimism warranted? The hosts explore the moral dilemmas between personal joy and global responsibility. They discuss how historical progress in health and education often gets overshadowed by negativity. You'll hear intriguing insights on altruism's complexities, shaped by context, and reflections on emotional responses, like crying. As feelings of helplessness loom, the conversation emphasizes taking small, meaningful actions to foster hope in uncertain times.
23 snips
Jan 22, 2023 • 36min
131. Why Do We Cry?
Dive into the fascinating world of crying, where sobbing is explored as a potential survival tactic. Listeners will hear personal tales that intertwine music, memories, and grief, revealing the complex emotional landscape behind tears. Discover five major triggers for emotional tears and how they can create connections between people. The discussion even touches on gender differences in emotional expression, challenging societal norms and advocating for a cultural shift that embraces vulnerability. Who knew sauerkraut and sadness could share a connection?
17 snips
Jan 15, 2023 • 31min
130. Why Is It So Hard to Resist Temptation?
Explore the intricate nature of self-control and its inconsistencies across different areas of life. Delve into the seven deadly sins and how they shape our impulses and decisions. Discover fun facts about animal speeds and the origins of the word 'character.' Hear personal stories revealing the ethical dilemmas people face in their pursuit of success. Plus, engage with listeners as they brainstorm ideas for an upcoming series on the seven deadly sins and preview the next discussion on the science of crying.
10 snips
Jan 8, 2023 • 40min
129. Why Do We Cheat, and Why Shouldn’t We?
The podcast dives into the intriguing psychology of cheating, examining motivations and justifications in both academic and social contexts. It tackles the ethical dilemmas of dishonesty, especially in a tech-driven world. The discussion extends to online trends that glamorize immoral behavior, prompting listeners to rethink what's harmless fun. Exploring societal implications and personal integrity reveals the complexities of cheating, while listener insights on focus and productivity highlight the importance of environment in shaping behavior.
20 snips
Jan 1, 2023 • 33min
What’s So Great About Retirement? (Ep. 87 Replay)
The hosts dive into the emotional landscape of retirement, exploring its excitement and anxieties. They reflect on the surge in retirements prompted by the pandemic and discuss how these transitions impact identity. A proactive mindset is emphasized, promoting engagement in meaningful activities. Psychological factors are crucial, with the importance of goals and relationships highlighted. The conversation redefines retirement as a time for growth and cognitive engagement, rather than withdrawal from life.
19 snips
Dec 25, 2022 • 40min
128. How Can You Give Better Gifts?
What makes a great gift? The hosts dive into the complexities of gift-giving, touching on cultural nuances and even animal behaviors. They discuss the awkwardness of re-gifting and debate the merits of cash versus thoughtful presents. Through entertaining anecdotes, they explore the psychological impact of gifts and the expectations tied to children's reactions. With engaging listener stories, they highlight the balance between practicality and emotional connection, making you rethink your approach to selecting the perfect gift.
51 snips
Dec 18, 2022 • 38min
127. How Can You Be a Better Communicator?
Discover the nuances of communication through engaging anecdotes and insightful discussions. Learn how mindfulness can elevate your speaking skills, and explore the evolution of writing from typewriters to digital tools. The speakers reveal the secrets behind well-crafted advice columns and how context shapes interactions. Enjoy a lighthearted take on mentorship in communication, and get a sneak peek into upcoming topics that delve into the art of gift-giving.
45 snips
Dec 11, 2022 • 37min
126. Why Do People Love Horror Movies?
Why do we love to be scared? The hosts dive into the allure of horror movies, discussing our fascination with negative emotions and personal anecdotes about favorite films. They examine the concept of benign masochism, explaining why some seek thrills through fear and discomfort. Philosophical musings on emotional catharsis in art arise, as they ponder Aristotle's views on horror. Finally, they tackle the impact of algorithms on personal choices, highlighting emotional dilemmas in modern dating and the consumption of negative media.
