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
26 snips
Aug 16, 2020 • 24min
14. Are You a Maximizer or a Satisficer?
Explore the intriguing differences between maximizers and satisficers in decision-making styles, showcasing how these approaches affect happiness and choices. Delve into effective job interview strategies, emphasizing the importance of structured questions and logical assessments. Discover the biases in traditional hiring methods through insights from Kahneman, while gaining a fascinating fact-check on historical anecdotes and scientific concepts, including quirky calculations about extraterrestrial life. It's an enlightening mix of psychology and practical advice!
18 snips
Aug 9, 2020 • 34min
13. How Can You Stop Comparing Yourself With Other People?
The harmful effects of comparing yourself to others take center stage, shedding light on its emotional toll. The conversation dives into the psychology behind social comparisons, especially in our tech-driven world. Biographical narratives reveal the complexities of interpreting life stories, while the narrative fallacy shows how we oversimplify realities into neat tales, ignoring luck's role. Lastly, the discussion about money's influence on success challenges common beliefs, highlighting media's transformative power in society.
11 snips
Aug 3, 2020 • 33min
12. Does “As If” Thinking Really Work?
Explore the transformative power of 'As If' thinking, which suggests that pretending to adopt positive traits, like extroversion, can elevate mood and social dynamics. The conversation highlights the placebo effect, showcasing how our beliefs can significantly influence emotional and physical health. Listeners will enjoy personal stories that demystify how mindset impacts recovery and pain perception. Balancing optimism with realism, the insights encourage applying positive thinking while staying grounded in genuine emotions.
18 snips
Jul 27, 2020 • 36min
11. Are Ambitious People Inherently Selfish?
The discussion starts with the intriguing link between ambition and self-interest, probing if ambitious people can truly be altruistic. Historical examples illustrate how personal pursuits often intertwine with broader societal values. Habituation is explored, revealing how we often take life's simple pleasures for granted. The conversation encourages mindfulness, emphasizing the importance of appreciating everyday joys. Finally, the interplay between ambition and social responsibility is examined, suggesting success can be a force for good.
13 snips
Jul 20, 2020 • 30min
10. Why Are Stories Stickier Than Statistics?
Discover why stories are far more memorable than dry statistics. The discussion highlights how compelling narratives evoke empathy and improve memory retention. Explore the ethical dilemmas journalists face when storytelling, and how misrepresentation can skew public perception. Learn about the emotional impact of photography in conveying stories, and delve into the complexities of who gets to tell certain narratives. Lastly, the importance of 'happy endings' in storytelling reveals how they shape our experiences and inspire optimism.
21 snips
Jul 13, 2020 • 33min
9. Why Is It So Hard to Be Alone With Our Thoughts?
Delve into the discomfort of solitude and why many prefer mild shocks to being alone with their thoughts. Discover how technology challenges young people’s ability to engage in deep thinking and personal connection. Explore the brain's default mode network and its role in daydreaming versus goal-oriented tasks. Learn how journaling and walking can enhance mental clarity. Uncover how parenting dynamics shift as kids seek independence and the lasting effects of parental influence on adolescent development.
8 snips
Jul 6, 2020 • 36min
8. Wouldn’t It Be Better to Hear Your Eulogy Before You’re Dead?
Eugene Mirman, a comedian and voice actor from Bob's Burgers, joins the late psychologist Anders Ericsson, celebrated for his work on expertise. They explore the concept of 'living eulogies,' allowing individuals to hear heartfelt tributes while still alive. The duo hilariously navigates the intersection of humor and mortality, discussing how laughter can coexist with serious themes. They also touch on the significance of gratitude and shared stories in creating deeper community ties, showcasing the beauty of celebration intertwined with reflection.
9 snips
Jun 29, 2020 • 30min
7. How Do You Handle Criticism?
The discussion kicks off with the emotional hurdles of criticism and its role in personal growth. The speakers examine how feedback can be a double-edged sword, differentiating between constructive and unhelpful criticism. They humorously explore the concept of radical candor in workplace communications. A thought experiment prompts listeners to weigh the emotional stakes of sending congratulations versus condolences. Lastly, tips for supportive communication during friends' triumphs and tribulations are shared, emphasizing empathy and genuine engagement.
4 snips
Jun 22, 2020 • 39min
6. Is Incompetence a Form of Dishonesty?
This discussion tackles the moral implications of incompetence at work, raising questions about self-awareness and accountability. It dives into the emotional effects of mistakes on integrity and explores how individuals often rationalize their shortcomings. The speakers examine the role of mission statements in guiding professional behavior, stressing the need for clarity over vagueness. Additionally, they delve into the balance between striving for improvement and the fear of failure, all while navigating the complexities of personal growth and ethical decision-making.
4 snips
Jun 15, 2020 • 29min
5. What Do Tom Sawyer and the Founder of Duolingo Have in Common?
In this episode, special guest Luis von Ahn, a brilliant computer scientist and the mind behind Duolingo and CAPTCHA, shares his fascinating journey from Guatemala to tech innovator. He discusses the inventive nature of both Tom Sawyer and his entrepreneurial spirit, illustrating how creativity can solve real problems. The conversation dives into the power of language learning, its impact on income disparities, and the importance of making education accessible. Lastly, they tackle the dilemmas in academic publishing, emphasizing the quest for quality over mere quantity in research.
