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
9 snips
Feb 27, 2022 • 35min
88. Is Self-Improvement Too Selfish?
The discussion kicks off with the interplay between self-improvement and societal healing. Can personal growth coexist with broader change? They tackle Maslow's hierarchy, offering fresh insights on fulfilling needs. Personal anecdotes illustrate the tricky balance of enhancing oneself while giving back to the community. Historical figures known for their dynamism are celebrated, reminding us that impactful legacies resonate beyond personal gain. Ultimately, the conversation unpacks whether self-improvement is an act of selfishness or a gateway to greater altruism.
Feb 20, 2022 • 32min
87. What’s So Great About Retirement?
Retirement can be daunting, but what does a fulfilling one really look like? Dive into personal stories and the shifting mindset people have post-COVID. Discover how relationships and community can enrich this new phase of life. The discussion also highlights the joy of being active and setting personal goals, as well as the surprising benefits pets bring to aging adults. Plus, listeners are invited to reflect on self-improvement and share their own insights for a more engaging conversation.
4 snips
Feb 13, 2022 • 33min
86. Should We All Be Taking More Long Shots?
Discover the intriguing differences between dispositional optimism and agentic hope. Learn how taking long shots can lead to unexpected growth, even if they miss the mark. The hosts share personal stories about the highs and lows of pursuing ambitious goals, emphasizing persistence and resilience. Basketball analogies illustrate how practice can turn failed attempts into successes. Plus, enjoy some lighthearted family anecdotes that bring humor to the topic of aging and optimism.
11 snips
Feb 6, 2022 • 32min
85. Is Emotional Intelligence Really So Important?
Exploring the complexities of emotional intelligence, the discussion dives into its importance in hiring practices and leadership roles. Personal anecdotes illustrate the contrast between emotional and traditional intelligence. Is emotional intelligence essential for decision-making, or just a modern trend? The episode also scrutinizes its dual nature, from societal pressures to its ethical implications. Plus, listeners are encouraged to share their bold experiences, adding a humorous twist to the conversation!
5 snips
Jan 30, 2022 • 30min
84. Why Do We Find So Much Meaning in Meaningless Coincidences?
Why are we so captivated by coincidences? The hosts dive into the psychology behind our fascination with seemingly random events, blending humor with intriguing anecdotes. They explore Carl Jung's ideas on synchronicity and discuss how personal connections shape our interpretations. The conversation transitions to how humans seek patterns in chaos, touching on everything from advertising algorithms to sports statistics. A surprising bar mitzvah limbo story adds a delightful twist to their exploration of meaning in the mundane.
7 snips
Jan 23, 2022 • 34min
83. Can You Change Your Mind Without Losing Face?
Admitting when we're wrong can feel awkward, yet it teaches valuable lessons in vulnerability. The discussion explores how intellectual humility fosters open-mindedness and helps us navigate misunderstandings. Changing beliefs doesn't mean losing integrity; it’s a fluid process shaped by personal experiences. From politics to science, the complexity of shifting viewpoints is highlighted through engaging anecdotes. Lastly, the power of constructive dialogue is emphasized as a way to bridge differing opinions and tackle societal changes.
4 snips
Jan 16, 2022 • 28min
82. Which Is More Powerful: Reward or Punishment?
Explore the fascinating dynamics between reward and punishment in shaping behavior. Discover how positive reinforcement can inspire pro-social actions on a national level, like monetarily incentivizing civic engagement. Delve into the nuances of parenting techniques, comparing authentic praise with punitive measures. The discussion touches on Taiwan's quirky dog-poop lottery, showcasing innovative strategies for encouraging better community habits. It's a deep dive into the psychology of motivation and decision-making that enlightens personal and societal implications.
Jan 9, 2022 • 29min
81. Why Is It So Hard to Talk About Money?
Dive into the societal taboos surrounding money conversations and explore how they impact financial literacy. Discover the emotional ties people have to finances and how these affect perceptions of wealth and identity. Hear a surprising story about a teenager taking initiative to understand IRAs. The hosts advocate for breaking the silence around money to combat financial illiteracy and elevate open dialogue, making the topic less daunting for everyone.
Jan 2, 2022 • 30min
80. Is a “Success Hangover” Real?
What happens after you achieve a big win? The hosts discuss the intriguing phenomenon of a 'success hangover,' where accomplishments can bring unexpected feelings of disappointment. They explore psychological concepts explaining why this emotional letdown occurs after victories. Personal stories reveal the complexities surrounding success, highlighting the contrast between initial excitement and post-achievement disillusionment. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider coping strategies for navigating these emotional highs and lows.
Dec 26, 2021 • 36min
79. Why Do We Root for Underdogs?
Discover the psychology behind our love for underdogs, exploring how emotional stories resonate with personal aspirations. Learn why consumers often favor small businesses over corporations and the deeper societal values at play. Delve into the challenges of balancing podcast structure with audience engagement, as hosts consider simplifying their format. Enjoy some fun facts while they address past inaccuracies, including a quirky origin tale of 'Three Dog Night.' Join in on this engaging conversation about resilience and community dynamics.
