Curiosity Theory

Latest Episodes:

People Trust TikTok over PhDs: The Misinformation Nation Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Curiosity Theory, Dr. Dakotah Tyler and Justin Shaifer break down the science of thinking clearly — especially in an online world full of misinformation, pseudoscience, and expert denialism.

They talk about how to spot bad logic, why expertise is under attack, and how to stay grounded when even basic truths are constantly questioned.

🎙 Hosted by:
Dr. Dakotah Tyler (@Dr.Starkid)
Justin Shaifer (@Mr.Fascinate)

📺 Watch full episodes + video extras: YouTube.com/@CuriosityTheoryPod
📱 Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: @CuriosityTheoryPod
🌐 More at curiositytheorypod.com

Is Understanding AI the New Literacy? Jul 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Curiosity Theory, Dr. Dakotah Tyler and Justin Shaifer break down the promises and pitfalls of artificial intelligence.

From the tension between hype and reality to expert disagreements and a little solar physics just because, this is an honest, nuanced, and human conversation about a technology shaping everything.

*In this episode Dakotah said there were 1 million automobile accident deaths in the US annually, but that is a global figure, not just the US*

🎙 Hosted by:
Dr. Dakotah Tyler (@Dr.Starkid)
Justin Shaifer (@Mr.Fascinate)

📱 Follow the show: @curiositytheorypod
🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your audio. Check out the video component on YouTube!

The Smartest People in the Room Might Be Telling Jokes w/ Manny Jul 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Curiosity Theory, Dakotah Tyler and Justin Shaifer sit down with comedian Manny (@delamomanny) to talk about identity, creativity, and how much (or how little) people really change over time.

They dig into ambition, self-esteem, neurodivergence, streaming culture, and the challenge of balancing hustle with staying grounded.

🎙 Hosted by:
Dr. Dakotah Tyler (@dr.starkid)
Justin Shaifer (@mr.fascinate)

👤 Guest: Manny (@delamomanny)
📱 Follow the show: @curiositytheorypod
🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your audio.

What Will Humans Become? Emergence & the Next 1000 Years w/ Ashley Christine Jun 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Curiosity Theory, Dakotah Tyler and Justin Shaifer are joined by Ashley Christine — better known online as @modernday_eratosthenes — to unpack the challenge of staying true in a world made for noise.

We discuss vulnerability in writing, the tension between internet freedom and regulation, voter confusion, and the art of grabbing attention with meaning.

🎙 Hosted by:
Dr. Dakotah Tyler (@starkidphd)
Justin Shaifer (@mr.fascinate)
👤 Guest: Ashley Christine (@modernday_eratosthenes)
📱 Follow the show: @curiositytheorypod
🎧 Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get audio.

Curious Enough to Never Fail!? Comedy, Confidence & Big Questions w/ Comedian Jazmyn W Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

n this episode of Curiosity Theory, Dr. Dakotah Tyler (@starkidphd) and Justin Shaifer (@mr.fascinate) are joined by comedian and content creator Jazmyn W (@jazmynw) to explore how comedy, creativity, and chaos intersect in the digital age.

We talk about pre-show rituals, growing an audience online, navigating perception, and how to stay authentic when you're constantly being watched.

It’s funny, thoughtful, and real — and it pulls back the curtain on the pressures and possibilities of life in the spotlight.

🎙 Hosted by:
Dr. Dakotah Tyler (@starkidphd)
Justin Shaifer (@mr.fascinate)

👤 Guest: Jazmyn W (@jazmynw)
📱 Follow the show: @curiositytheorypod on all platforms
🔗 New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your audio.

Curiosity As A North Star Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the very first episode of Curiosity Theory — where we explore the questions that drive us and the stories that shape us.
In this episode, co-hosts Dr. Dakotah Tyler (astrophysicist & former D1 football player) and Justin Shaifer (science communicator & media producer) kick things off with a raw and real conversation about how curiosity has changed their lives.
We talk about:
The spark that led us to science
Turning pain into purpose
Overcoming fear and self-doubt
Why curiosity is essential for growth — in life and in society
If you’ve ever felt stuck, aimless, or just hungry to know more, this episode is for you.
🔔 Subscribe for new episodes every Tuesday
🎙️ Follow us on IG + TikTok: @CuriosityTheoryPod
📬 For inquiries or collabs: curiositytheorypod@gmail.com

Trailer - Welcome to Curiosity Theory Jun 08, 2025

Show notes

Curiosity Theory is built on the belief that curiosity isn’t just a personality trait. It’s a vital human force. In ancient times, it helped us survive. Today, it helps us stay engaged, connected, and sane in a world that often numbs us out.
We see curiosity as a muscle. When we train it—through science, ideas, stories, and questions—we grow. When we ignore it, we drift into apathy and disconnection.
This podcast is for the intellectually hungry, the dreamers, the critical thinkers, and the culturally curious.

Hosted by Dr. Dakotah Tyler and Justin Shaifer