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
May 23, 2021 • 35min
53. What’s the Secret to Making a Great Prediction?
Explore the art of making predictions and the emotional biases that can lead to missteps. Learn about the traits of successful forecasters, the value of diverse perspectives, and strategies for improving accuracy. Delve into the reality of bad days for high achievers, uncovering the myth of constant positivity. Discover how to embrace setbacks as growth opportunities and utilize techniques like journaling and self-affirmation. Reflect on lessons learned from past challenges and find healthier ways to recover from tough moments.
May 16, 2021 • 39min
52. How Much Should We Be Able to Customize Our World?
Explore the intriguing world of customization and its impact on our lives. The discussion reveals both the benefits and pitfalls of personalized experiences in education, relationships, and culture. Dive into the complex nature of multitasking, where human cognitive limits are contrasted with our tech-driven expectations. Discover the risks of multitasking in high-stakes situations and how nostalgic habits can help us manage multiple tasks better. This engaging dialogue raises critical questions about the balance between individual desires and community needs.
May 9, 2021 • 37min
51. What Separates Humans From Other Animals?
Explore the fascinating differences between human and animal intelligence, including pigs mastering video games! Dive into the ethical dilemmas of dietary choices and laugh at humorous insights on cognitive abilities across species. Discover how pacing during phone calls can actually help reduce anxiety and boost focus. Plus, a discussion on the shift from phone conversations to video calls reveals intriguing impacts on communication. Enjoy a fun fact about octopus plural forms while reflecting on Tolstoy's wisdom regarding happiness and consumption.
May 2, 2021 • 35min
50. Are You as Observant as You Think?
Listeners are challenged to sharpen their observational skills and reflect on mindfulness in everyday life. Personal anecdotes reveal how intentional awareness enhances appreciation. The struggle with insomnia takes center stage, with humorous tales and strategies for better sleep. The conversation dives into cultural narratives surrounding sleep and productivity, ultimately leading to a quirky exploration of counting sheep and the evolution of inclusive language. It's a fun mix of relatable experiences and thought-provoking insights!
7 snips
Apr 25, 2021 • 39min
49. How Does Facing Death Change Your Life?
Explore how near-death experiences can transform perspectives on life and mortality. Discover the intriguing concept of post-traumatic growth versus stress, revealing how trauma can spark positive change. Delve into the complexities of risk assessment and decision-making in everyday life. Learn about 'Black Swan' events and how they skew our perception of risk. Finally, understand how facing mortality reshapes priorities and relationships, unlocking a deeper appreciation for life.
Apr 18, 2021 • 39min
48. Do Good Deeds Invite More Bad Ones?
Dive into the lighthearted chaos of decision-making at fast-food joints, where even simple choices spark laughter. Discover the 'poop angels'—those who clean up after careless pet owners—exploring the thin line between altruism and enabling bad behavior. Journey through the pivotal choices in life, from partners to parenthood, all served with a side of humor. Unpack the complexities of technology's role in our lives and its impact on democracy, showcasing the importance of personal choices in shaping happiness.
Apr 11, 2021 • 33min
47. Is Laziness Real?
Is laziness a real thing, or just a guilt-driven illusion? The hosts dive deep into personal stories, exploring how environment and motivation shape our productivity. They challenge common misconceptions about laziness, urging listeners to consider individual circumstances and values. The conversation shifts to the contrast between loneliness and solitude, emphasizing that being alone can be fulfilling. With humorous insights into dining solo and the societal stigma around being alone in public, they highlight the hidden joys of solitude and connection.
6 snips
Apr 4, 2021 • 38min
46. How Can You Stop Feeling So Irritable?
The hosts dive into the connection between irritability and personal perception, especially in tough times like winter. They explore the nuances of impatience, emphasizing its potential upsides and how upbringing shapes our attitudes. Communication dynamics take center stage, discussing the art of interruption and 'cooperative overlapping' in conversations. Personal anecdotes and science intertwine, providing strategies for managing emotions while highlighting irritability’s role in setting boundaries and signaling injustices.
Mar 28, 2021 • 38min
45. How Much Better Do You Really Want to Be?
Explore the drive to excel and the impact of comparing ourselves to others. Discover how our aspirations shape personal identity and the psychological dimensions of competition. Delve into the nuances of communication, including the pitfalls of excessive filler words and the art of clear expression. Uncover the role of verbal tics in speech, the cultural variations in using fillers, and the biases in speech perception. It’s a fascinating discussion on how we communicate and how our speech patterns evolve over time.
Mar 21, 2021 • 36min
44. Is Empathy in Fact Immoral?
Dive into the complex morality of empathy, revealing its potential pitfalls in fostering fairness. Discover how empathy can bias moral decisions, leading to unexpected dilemmas. The conversation explores the balance between spontaneity and structured goals in life, showcasing personal stories that reflect both approaches. Unpack the brain's role in creativity and self-reflection while examining personality types like Myers-Briggs. Finally, uncover fascinating research on empathy's influence on altruism and social behaviors.
