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.
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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
4 snips
Jul 17, 2022 • 37min
107. Is It Worth It for Charities to Harass Their Donors?
Is it acceptable for charities to relentlessly seek donations? The hosts dive into why people give and the effectiveness of quirky incentives like personalized address labels. They explore ethical dilemmas charities face, from transparency to sustainable impact, highlighting the evolution of fundraising strategies. The conversation is peppered with listener anecdotes that humorously illustrate the ups and downs of soliciting support. The discussion leaves us pondering how to balance empathy with effective fundraising.
29 snips
Jul 10, 2022 • 38min
106. Did Your Early Childhood Determine the Course of Your Life?
Dive into the fascinating world of attachment styles and how they shape our relationships! Explore the influence of early childhood experiences on adult bonds, from secure to avoidant attachment. Discover the comedic insights on emotional connections in the workplace and the physiological perks of skin-to-skin contact after birth. Listen in as hosts share personal anecdotes, unpack attachment theory’s evolution, and discuss the ongoing journey of personal growth. This lively conversation is both enlightening and relatable.
5 snips
Jul 3, 2022 • 28min
How Does Facing Death Change Your Life? (Replay from Ep. 49)
Explore how facing death can spark both fear and growth. Discover the contrast between post-traumatic stress and the potential for post-traumatic growth after trauma. Personal stories reveal how near-death experiences can shift perspectives on life and mortality. A thrilling tale of a perilous hike offers humor and deep reflections on decisions made in high-stress situations. Finally, the conversation prompts a reevaluation of life’s priorities and the value of personal relationships in the face of existential pondering.
8 snips
Jun 26, 2022 • 35min
105. Should You Give Kids an Allowance or Make Them Get Jobs?
Should kids receive an allowance or earn their keep? The hosts dive into the pros and cons of both approaches, adding a sprinkle of humor along the way. They reflect on childhood entrepreneurship and how those early money-making endeavors can shape future financial habits. The discussion also highlights the psychological impacts of earning versus receiving money. Finally, they explore how childhood experiences, especially relationships with parents, influence long-term success and mental health.
10 snips
Jun 19, 2022 • 35min
104. How Simple Is Too Simple?
Why do we crave quick fixes for complex problems? The discussion explores the dangers of oversimplifying issues, showcasing notable examples like the Theranos scandal. Listeners learn how simple actions, such as walking, can enhance mental health. The hosts delve into cognitive biases that lead us to prefer easy explanations, especially during crises like COVID-19. Plus, there's a fun segment encouraging memories of first jobs, adding a personal touch to the conversation. It's a thought-provoking journey through the balance of simplicity and complexity!
4 snips
Jun 12, 2022 • 34min
103. Should Toilets Be Free?
Americans have a unique tipping culture, and the podcast explores its surprising complexities and the movement to eliminate it in restaurants. The discussion takes a humorous turn as they dive into the history and evolution of public restrooms, particularly the disappearance of pay toilets. Personal anecdotes highlight the challenges of modern restroom access, especially for women, while addressing the growing need for better facilities in urban areas. Listeners are encouraged to share their own unexpected dilemmas in everyday life.
4 snips
Jun 5, 2022 • 38min
102. What’s So Bad About Nepotism?
The podcast dives into the complex world of nepotism, exploring its historical roots and modern implications. It raises questions about fairness and merit inside family-run businesses, discussing how they juggle inherited legacies with merit-based success. Unique cultural practices are highlighted, such as adult adoption in Japan for succession, which adds an intriguing twist. Personal stories and research capture the multifaceted dynamics of nepotism in various sectors, challenging listeners to ponder its role in society.
12 snips
May 29, 2022 • 39min
101. Are You Really "Addicted" to Diet Coke?
What differentiates a habit from a true addiction? The discussion kicks off with a light-hearted take on Diet Coke, leading to deeper questions about our daily preferences. The speakers explore how addiction manifests across various behaviors, highlighting the elusive nature of self-control. They reflect on psychological patterns and the paradox of desiring what we no longer find appealing. Listeners are encouraged to reconsider their own relationships with habits and the societal impacts of addiction.
12 snips
May 22, 2022 • 36min
100. Is It Weird for Adults to Have Imaginary Friends?
The hosts tackle the fascinating world of parasocial relationships, discussing how one-sided emotional connections with media figures can impact mental health. They share personal stories and listener experiences, particularly with K-pop fandoms, emphasizing feelings of belonging. The conversation also touches on the nostalgia of childhood imaginary friends and their relevance in adulthood. The milestone celebration adds a fun touch, as they engage listeners with trivia and personal reflections about dependencies beyond just substance abuse.
22 snips
May 15, 2022 • 36min
99. Do You Mind if I Borrow Your Personality?
Explore the intriguing concept of 'personality plagiarism' and its ethical implications. Discover the art of mimicking admired traits for personal growth, and how social learning can enhance motivation. Dive into the balance between imitation and autonomy in learning, illustrated by a quirky Crayola toy. Delve into the fine line between inspiration and plagiarism in creative fields. Plus, enjoy personal anecdotes about one-sided connections with celebrities that foster a playful sense of community among listeners.
