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
Jan 3, 2021 • 39min
33. Is Optimism a Luxury Good?
The podcast explores the nuances of optimism, contrasting it with realism and defensive pessimism. It examines how optimism and grit interplay, particularly for disadvantaged youth facing adversity. Public speaking fears are tackled, with insights on overcoming glossophobia through preparation and confidence. The discussion highlights the impact of the pandemic on communication, showcasing the benefits and challenges of virtual platforms. Historical anecdotes enrich the conversation, making personal growth and optimism accessible for all.
Dec 27, 2020 • 37min
How Much of Your Life Do You Actually Control? (Ep. 15 Rebroadcast)
Explore the intriguing balance between what we control and what we don't in life. Learn about the internal versus external locus of control and its surprising impact on personal growth. Dive into the complexities of procrastination, revealing it as more than laziness—it's about emotional regulation. Hear relatable anecdotes from famous figures that shine a light on their own struggles with procrastination, all while refining strategies to tackle your own tasks. A mix of psychology, humor, and practical advice awaits!
Dec 20, 2020 • 34min
32. Which Gets You Further: Talent or Effort?
The podcast explores the debate of whether talent or effort is more crucial for success, using engaging metaphors from physics. It delves into the intricate dynamics of skill development, emphasizing perseverance and intrinsic motivation. The discussion shifts to the nuances of acronyms and initialisms, highlighting how they can create barriers in communication. Listeners are treated to humorous stories about 'aptonyms' and the significance of names related to professions, all while challenging some common misconceptions.
Dec 13, 2020 • 37min
31. How Much Do Your Friends Affect Your Future?
Discover how friendships shape your future, affecting both personal choices and professional paths. The hosts delve into the ripple effects of social groups, highlighting emotional contagion and the balance between positive and negative influences. They discuss the link between relationships and mental well-being, plus explore which professions boast the happiest individuals. Insights into regional personality traits provide a captivating look at how location influences job satisfaction and the overall happiness in the workplace.
Dec 6, 2020 • 35min
30. Why Do We Seek Comfort in the Familiar?
Delve into the psychology behind our attraction to familiar media during stressful times, especially in the context of the pandemic. Explore how age influences our comfort-seeking behaviors and the balance between familiarity and novelty. Discover the nuances of adolescent risk-taking versus the caution of older adults. Unpack the Dunning-Kruger effect, where people often overestimate their knowledge, leading to humorous yet telling anecdotes. Finally, navigate the complexities of information and cultural cognition affecting our beliefs and decision-making.
Nov 29, 2020 • 32min
29. How Do You Know When It’s Time to Quit?
Discover the delicate balance of knowing when to quit versus when to persevere, challenging the stigma around quitting. Dive into the complexities of decision-making with personal stories and research insights on opportunity costs and emotional factors. Explore the unpredictability of success in love and career, revealing that immediate satisfaction doesn't always lead to lasting happiness. Reflect on choices and myths that shape our perspectives, while engaging with thought-provoking metaphors about life's decisions.
Nov 22, 2020 • 29min
28. Why Do We Hoard?
Dive into the quirky world of hoarding, from stockpiling quinoa to the emotional ties we have with our belongings. Discover the fine line between harmless saving and psychological disorders. Explore how our perceptions of time—past, present, or future—shape our moods and decisions. The podcast reflects on personal experiences with material attachment and the broader psychological implications of accumulation. With historical insights and a touch of humor, it offers a fresh perspective on clutter and emotional well-being.
Nov 15, 2020 • 38min
27. How Should You Ask for Forgiveness?
Delve into the art of sincere apologies and the emotional weight of asking for forgiveness. Discover how gratitude letters can boost relationships and the significance of rituals like Yom Kippur for collective atonement. Explore secular methods to cultivate forgiveness daily, and learn about the complexities of behavior change in a post-pandemic world. The discussion highlights the balance between recognizing past wrongs and celebrating personal growth, all while uncovering strategies to influence healthier habits in ourselves and our communities.
5 snips
Nov 8, 2020 • 34min
26. Do Checklists Make People Stupid?
The podcast dives into the intriguing debate over whether checklists stifle or enhance critical thinking. It highlights their role in high-stakes environments like surgery and aviation, weighing structure against personal judgment. Humorously addressing teenagers, the discussion looks at how checklists can aid productivity in their chaotic lives. The conversation shifts to NYC’s shifting population post-pandemic, exploring urban to suburban migration and the impact of physical proximity on community ties. It wraps up with a warm reflection on friendship.
Nov 1, 2020 • 31min
25. Is Hedonism Better Than Self-Control?
Dive into the debate between hedonism and self-control as pathways to happiness. Discover how immediate pleasures can coexist with long-term goals while balancing your desires and actions. Unpack the psychological impacts of the pandemic, including compassion fatigue and desensitization. Learn the importance of taking action rather than just expressing concern during crises. Plus, explore quirky yoga practices like karaoke yoga and beer yoga that add a fun twist to fitness!
