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
Mar 14, 2021 • 37min
43. What Do We Really Learn From Failure?
Explore the value in failure and the tough choice of when to let projects go. Discover the art of balancing live podcasting with quality recordings. Teasing takes center stage as it reveals its dual role in relationships, all dependent on context. Learn how teasing dynamics shift across social hierarchies and the impact of status. Finally, dive into the relationship between comedy and politics, highlighting memorable moments that merge satire with serious discourse.
Mar 7, 2021 • 39min
42. How Does When You Are Born Affect Who You Are?
The timing of your birth can shape your personality and life outcomes. The hosts delve into how cultural beliefs like the Chinese zodiac impact our trajectories. Funny coffee quizzes reveal personal taste quirks and a no-sugar challenge adds a playful twist. Exploring food preferences, they uncover how childhood memories and mindfulness influence what we like. Plus, the conversation touches on luxury coffee production and the surprising effects a mother's diet has on her child's flavor preferences.
Feb 28, 2021 • 36min
41. Why Are We So Attracted to Fame?
Explore the evolution of celebrity culture and its profound impact on identity. Delve into the paradox of fame, revealing its darker sides like obsession and stalking. The discussion shifts to personal influences, highlighting how unseen factors shape who we are. Memory's role in shaping identity is examined, especially the influence of childhood figures. Finally, the podcast traces our enduring fascination with fame through history and social media, mixing insightful reflections with humorous anecdotes.
Feb 21, 2021 • 36min
40. Have We All Lost Our Ability to Compromise?
The discussion kicks off with the waning art of compromise in politics and society. They delve into how social media fuels ego protection, affecting our ability to admit mistakes. Insights from Charlie Munger spotlight the challenges of originality and the flaws in our education system. Cognitive biases take center stage, explaining how they influence decision-making and creativity. The hosts also tackle misconceptions like the flat Earth theory, emphasizing the joy of understanding diverse perspectives and the importance of critical thinking.
Feb 14, 2021 • 37min
39. Is Everybody Cheating These Days?
The hosts dive into the alarming rise of cheating in education, especially in the era of virtual learning. They unpack the ethical dilemmas and motivations behind cheating, from academia to sports, highlighting the influence of reputation and situational pressures. The conversation then shifts to lifelong learning, emphasizing its benefits for brain health and personal growth. They explore the brain's plasticity and the delicate balance between exploring new skills and refining existing ones, all while addressing how age affects learning dynamics.
Feb 7, 2021 • 34min
38. What Does It Mean to Be a “Good” Man?
Dive into the complexities of gender dynamics as the hosts humorously tackle misogyny and misandry. They explore the implications of legislation on hiring practices and how having daughters can shift men's perspectives. The discussion shifts to mental health, emphasizing the difference between rumination and reflection. Learn practical strategies to manage negative thoughts and emotions while promoting resilience. The exploration of parental leave policies and cognitive diversity adds a thought-provoking twist, highlighting the importance of shared responsibilities.
Jan 31, 2021 • 40min
37. How Do You Know if People Don’t Like You?
Explore the nuances of how we perceive ourselves versus how others see us, filled with witty analogies. Dive into misconceptions about colonoscopies and the challenges of team recruitment in law. Discover the allure of change versus the comfort of routine, and how personal habits reveal our innate preferences. Unpack the complexities of social acceptance and rejection while evaluating the genuine impact of self-help literature on personal transformation. Finally, hear about innovative ways to enhance audience engagement!
Jan 24, 2021 • 37min
36. Which Matters More, a First or Last Impression?
Dive into the fascinating debate over first and last impressions and their lasting impact on our perceptions. Discover how the peak-end theory, illustrated through colonoscopy experiences, reveals that moderation trumps intensity in shaping satisfaction. Explore the complex relationship between wisdom and age, questioning if wisdom can truly be taught or is birthed from experience. The interplay of emotion and reason is key to understanding true wisdom, making this discussion both enlightening and entertaining!
Jan 17, 2021 • 33min
35. Does Psychotherapy Actually Work?
Discover the intriguing comparison between psychotherapy and cash transfers in rural Kenya, revealing surprising insights into mental health support. Dive into the complexities of personal identity, exploring how we present different selves in various contexts. Unpack the role of self-awareness and emotional regulation in therapy, while learning about strategies to activate our best selves. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted discussion on the evolution of mental health terminology and a nostalgic nod to ice cream availability during the pandemic.
Jan 10, 2021 • 36min
34. Are Humans Smarter or Stupider Than We Used to Be?
The hosts dive into the debate about whether humans are getting smarter or dumber over time. They explore the dramatic rise in literacy and IQ, unpacking the Flynn effect's implications. Curiosity's role in intelligence is examined, with insights on how adults can reclaim their lost wonder. Practical tips for nurturing curiosity throughout life are offered, alongside personal anecdotes. The discussion also touches on the relationship between evolving language and societal pressures that can dampen curiosity.
