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.
In this episode of No Stupid Questions, the hosts tackle the intriguing question of whether society is growing more pessimistic. While data indicates a rise in pessimism, especially among younger people, they explore the nuances behind this trend. They discuss ideas like agency and learned helplessness, pointing out th...
In this podcast episode, the hosts tackle the popular notion that our attention spans are getting shorter. They clarify that the often-cited comparison of human attention spans to those of goldfish is inaccurate. Instead, they delve into whether our ability to focus has genuinely diminished or if it's the overwhelming ...
In this episode of No Stupid Questions, the hosts dive into the complex world of narcissism. They clarify the distinction between clinical narcissism, known as narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), which is quite rare, and the more casual use of the term. The discussion highlights two main types of narcissism: grand...
In this episode of No Stupid Questions, the hosts dive into the intricacies of gift-giving, examining why it can be so challenging and how to make it better. They discuss the pros and cons of giving cash versus more thoughtful gifts, touching on economic ideas like "deadweight loss" while emphasizing the need for empat...
In this podcast episode, the hosts dive into the complex topic of sharenting, exploring its risks, psychological drivers, and effects on future generations, especially within influencer culture. They discuss the serious threats of identity theft and the ethical concerns surrounding the online sharing of children's live...
This podcast episode explores the fascinating link between the evolution of Halloween, the concept of anonymity, and how clothing affects our psychology. Starting with personal reflections on childhood costumes, it spans historical insights and contemporary implications. The discussion ultimately uncovers how significa...
In this podcast episode, the hosts explore the key differences between excuses and justifications, examining how they shape our self-image and actions. Using a blend of humor and academic insights, they reveal how excuses often shift blame to protect our self-esteem, while justifications embrace responsibility but defe...
In this podcast episode, the hosts explore the complex interplay between moral motives and charitable giving, questioning whether true altruism can exist alongside self-serving interests. They discuss billionaire philanthropy, the idea of "emotional do-gooders," and the intricacies of moral judgment, highlighting how m...
In this podcast episode, we explore the nuanced nature of apologies and their psychological effects in both personal and corporate settings. By merging research findings with real-life examples, we uncover the importance of heartfelt apologies for repairing relationships, examine the complex relationship between power ...
In this podcast episode, hosts Stephen and Angela dive into the intriguing psychology behind why people enjoy horror movies and other thrilling experiences. They discuss concepts such as benign masochism and sensation seeking, sharing personal stories and scientific insights along the way. The duo reveals how seeking f...
This podcast episode delves into the profound insights gained from the Stanford Prison Experiment and Milgram's obedience experiments, illustrating how situational contexts can drive individuals to commit acts of cruelty and evil. By analyzing these landmark studies, the hosts underscore the critical role of environmen...
This podcast episode delves into the complexities of adolescence and emerging adulthood, addressing the biological and societal transitions that define these critical stages of life. Angela and Mike discuss how traditional markers of adulthood are shifting, with delays in key milestones influenced by social media and c...
This podcast episode examines the complex emotional relationship people have with sad music, uncovering its ability to foster connection and validation during times of sorrow, while highlighting the psychological implications of nostalgia and rumination. Angela and Mike explore various studies revealing that for some, ...
This podcast episode delves into the profound impact of humor and laughter on human connections, emphasizing that laughter not only fosters social bonds but can also enhance leadership and workplace dynamics. By debunking common myths surrounding humor—such as the belief that one must be innately funny or that humor is...
This podcast episode delves into the profound impact of storytelling, illustrating its effectiveness across various contexts, from influencing farmers' safety behaviors to shaping jurors' decisions. While acknowledging the power and allure of narratives, the discussion also addresses the ethical challenges of storytell...
This podcast episode delves into the persistent doubts surrounding AI, the complexities of tradition, and the often overlooked biases that influence our decision-making processes, urging listeners to challenge the status quo while recognizing that change can lead to genuine improvement and understanding the reasons beh...
This podcast episode examines the rise of AI-powered companionship apps, specifically focusing on their potential to provide emotional support while raising concerns about the value of real human relationships. Angela and Mike discuss the nuanced benefits these AI companions might offer for individuals experiencing lon...
This podcast episode delves into the complexities of self-awareness, perception, and feedback, presenting research findings and personal anecdotes that illustrate how our understanding of ourselves can be limited and often influenced by external judgments. Angela and Mike encourage listeners to embrace their multifacet...
This podcast episode examines the complex interplay of trust, skepticism, and susceptibility to scams, revealing the nuanced realities of human gullibility in the age of deception. Through discussions on the "Yes Man" approach, the impact of age on scam susceptibility, the rise of AI scams, and the historical context o...
This podcast episode examines the complexities surrounding retirement, particularly the societal implications of mandatory retirement ages and the psychological barriers that prevent individuals from transitioning into new life chapters. Through discussions on cognitive decline, the fear of irrelevance, and the nature ...
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