Curiosity sits at the intersection of creativity, effective human interactions, problem-solving and purposeful change. Unfortunately, the pace of life — at home, work, and school — often sidetracks our natural curiosity. So, listen as we look at the familiar from a different angle or something new as a possibility to consider.
In this episode, author and writing teacher Cindy House explores memoir writing, emphasizing curiosity as its foundation and the difference between memoirs and autobiographies. Our discussion unpacks the genre's popularity, its structural variations, and key elements, such as posing a central question, outlining supportive themes, and overcoming resistance. We also discuss the critical difference between the writer’s personal and historical truths.
Read MoreIn this episode, Neil Hughes, a technology writer, podcast host, and engineer, discusses the impact of technological change, the future of work with extended reality, and strategies to manage technology use while maintaining critical thinking and creativity in an increasingly digital world.
Read MoreIn this episode, I recount my trip a year ago to Wannsee, Germany, a suburb of Berlin, where on January 20, 1942, 15 high-ranking Nazis gathered in a villa to resolve various aspects of the “final solution of the Jewish problem.”
Read MoreIn this episode, I trace the mental and physical journey I recently traveled in the Netherlands to grasp the murder of 102,000 Dutch Jews during WWII at the hands of the Nazis. I wanted to move beyond the number and get to the human beings. The larger mental issue I faced was confronting the remnants of hate I saw and how they drove me toward hate.
Read MoreIn this episode, we hear from Dave Lampert, CEO of Food Rescue U.S. which combats food hunger while tons of food go to waste. Food Rescue US fights back with a volunteer-powered app that connects them with grocery stores and other venues to rescue perfectly edible food. We learn about the environmental impact of food waste and how weou can get involved in the fight against hunger.
Read MoreIn this episode, I speak with Jim Flint the interim Executive Director and Director of Operations of “Fishing the Good Fight.” The organization uses fly fishing retreats in Colorado to help men navigate the complex intersection of male masculinity and mental health.
Read MoreThis episode features Susan Gaetz, director of Casting for Recovery. Casting for Recovery offers fly-fishing retreats for breast cancer survivors. As a long-time volunteer, Susan highlights the retreats' power to heal, build confidence, and connect with nature. We learn how fly-fishing offers physical and mental benefits and how the organization fosters a supportive community for survivors.
Read MoreIn this solo episode, I reflect on Father's Day and remember my dad, who passed away some 40 years ago. I explore what I remember about him, the potential reasons for gaps in my knowledge, and the deeper conversations I wish we had shared.
Read MoreIn this episode, I talk with lay historians Bill Whiteside and Paul McNicholls about D-Day, June 6, 1944. Using David Stafford’s unique history, Ten Days to D-Day, as the basis for our discussion, we examine the extensive planning, elaborate deceptions, and luck that served as critical elements of the invasion’s success. We also stretch a little bit by speculating "what if" the invasion had failed.
Read MoreDanelle Almaraz, an educational leader with over three decades of experience, is committed to advancing leadership in modern education. At InnovateED, she empowers middle-tier leaders, promoting collaboration, innovation, and growth. Danelle champions continuous improvement, student success, and curiosity, advocating for an inclusive educational experience that enables learners at all levels to drive positive change.
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Discover how Ethan Bryson’s Natural Urban Forests organization plants small urban forests to heal, educate, engage communities, and restore ecological balance. Join us, as we discuss forest design, community involvement, and environmental education.
This week’s guest, Dimitri Anselme, the Chief Officer of Growth and Engagement with Facing History & Ourselves, examines the persistence of hate despite efforts to combat it. He delves into Facing History's mission and its impact on schools. He and I discussed teaching sensitive topics and the importance of curiosity in education and professional development.
Read MoreIn this episode, I sit down with four LinkedIn friends/colleagues to discuss Dacher Keltner’s book, Awe the New Science of Wonder and How it Can Transform Your Life. Each of my guests, Melissa Hughes, Rich Gassen, Brooke Erol, and Sarah Elkins, brings an important perspective to the topic. We talk at length about the role of curiosity and awe in the workplace.
Read MoreTour guide, Iain McHenry, helps us walk virtually through the battlefields of World War I. There we learn about the soldier’s life, the remnants of battle today, the continued search for the missing, and the haunting nature of war memorials and cemeteries.
Read MoreIn this episode, Tara LaFon Gooch, TED-X speaker, best-selling author, and confidence coach, explores how self-gratitude can jumpstart the journey to confidence and purpose. Learn how to reframe negative thoughts, discover your strengths, and build a life that aligns with your values.
Read MoreIf you’re periodically struggling to find direction and purpose in your life, this episode explores a practical framework, “possibility management,” developed by sociology professor Bradley Wright. In this episode, we also dive into his new book, The Purpose Journal, to learn how to navigate different paths, discover your passions, and take action to create a fulfilling life with a positive impact.
Read MoreWhat happens when “In sickness and in health” and “‘till death do us part” become more than words in a wedding ceremony? Author Jarie Bolander recounts a powerful story of negotiating impending loss and then managing the grief that comes with a spouse’s death.
Read MoreThis is an episode about episodes that never happened. Here, I briefly profile six individuals I could not entice—for various reasons—to sit opposite me behind the mic. But there was still much to be learned.
Read MoreAs a happiness keynoter, consultant, and coach, Kim Strobel could establish a level of value simply by quoting ideas from others who have researched happiness. What makes Kim’s work extraordinary is that she has lived unhappiness. As a longtime sufferer of panic attacks, Kim knows what it’s like to look at the world through lenses of pain and fear. Her strategies for transformation are hard-earned.
Read MoreLike most people, I had known beavers—this furry, industrious rodent—to be very adept at building dams and lodges of brush, leaves, twigs, and mud. But it’s what happens to the riverscapes and landscapes as a result of their building that makes them special. Environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb provides the details.
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