86. Should We All Be Taking More Long Shots?

No Stupid Questions by Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher

Aug 2, 202600:31:43Society & Culture

What’s the difference between dispositional optimism and agentic hope? Are there benefits to taking a long shot, even if it turns out to be an air ball? And how is Angela like an N.F.L. quarterback? This episode original...

Related Episodes

Continue listening to more episodes from No Stupid Questions.

94. What to Do When Everything Looks Like a Catastrophe?

Sep 27, 2026 - 00:31:43

What is the relationship between “catastrophizing” and anxiety? How did Angela react when her mother came...

93. Does the Early Bird Really Catch the Worm? Or Could the Night Owl Get There First?

Sep 20, 2026 - 00:30:03

How have Angie’s views on sleep changed since she wrote her Harvard application essay? Would starting hig...

92. Is Poor Nutrition a Supply Problem or a Demand Problem?

Sep 13, 2026 - 00:32:25

Is evolution stacked against healthy eating? What policies could increase demand for nutritious food? And...

How Gary Gulman Turned Depression Into Comedy Gold Better in Person

Sep 9, 2026 - 00:47:30

In this episode of Stephen Dubner’s new TV talk show, Gary and Stephen talk about creativity, recovery, g...

91. Do You Savor or Gobble?

Sep 6, 2026 - 00:39:33

What’s the difference between people who preserve special things and people who devour them right away? W...

90. If America Is a Train Wreck, Why Am I Doing Fine?

Aug 30, 2026 - 00:30:16

Why do so many Americans say they’re satisfied with their own lives but upset about the way the country i...

89. How Valuable Is Enthusiasm?

Aug 23, 2026 - 00:28:34

What’s the difference between willpower and eagerness? Is there a lifehack that can make you zestier? And...

88. Is Self-Improvement Too Selfish?

Aug 16, 2026 - 00:34:17

Is it more important to help society or to help yourself? Does the self-improvement movement do any good...