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Episodes 40-52: Highlights features our best moments from the past year, featuring a world-class expert in behavioral economics, an exoneree, a UFC fighter, a voice actor, a homicide detective, and an open-source creator.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast brings you the best moments from the last 13 episodes. We've condensed insightful highlights on topics like competitive eating, UFC, and Rett Syndrome.Whether you're a new listener or a loyal fan, this episode offers a perfect snapshot of what our podcast is all about.In this episode we discuss:00:00 - Introduction00:37 - Episode 40: International Rett Syndrome Foundation (IRSF) Family & Community Engagement Manager, Samantha Brant03:17 - Episode 41: Intellectual Property Rights Lawyer, Karin Coger04:44 - Episode 42: Taekwondo Grandmaster, Jinsue Park08:42 - Episode 43: Exoneree, Dr. Marvin Cotton Jr.11:33 - Episode 44: Competitive Eater, George Chiger13:18 - Episode 45: UFC Fighter, Angela “Overkill” Hill14:55 - Episode 46: Psychiatrist, Dr. Tahir Rahman15:54 - Episode 47: Bluetooth & Wireless Expert, Nick Hunn17:32 - Episode 48: Speedcuber, Tommy Cherry18:54 - Episode 49: Homicide Detective, Sgt. Dave Walker20:03 - Episode 50: Voice Actor, Billy West22:07 - Episode 51: Behavioral Economist, Dan Ariely23:35 - Episode 52: Peppermint OS Co-Founder, Shane Remington25:56 - Conclusion & Closing RemarksThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 52: What Is Peppermint OS? – features Peppermint OS Co-Founder Shane Remington as he shares the story behind building an open source Linux distribution.Episode Summary: This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a conversation with Shane Remington, co-founder and former COO of Peppermint OS, the innovative Linux distribution that blends cloud computing with the desktop experience.Listen as Shane shares the story of building Peppermint OS from the ground up, the challenges of launching and sustaining an open-source operating system, and the future of Linux and community-driven software.In this episode we discuss:00:29 - Introducing Shane Remington01:56 - Learning about Open Source software 11:59 - What is Linux?13:09 - Different Types of Software16:33 - Creation of Peppermint OS25:39 - Challenges Faced27:38 - Evolution of Peppermint OS31:38 - Advice for Others33:37 - Learning More36:04 - ConclusionResources:Peppermint OSPeppermint OS RedditShane's LinkedInThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 51: What Is Behavioral Economics? - features renowned behavioral economist Dan Ariely as he unpacks the forces behind our purchasing choices and personal decisions.Episode Summary: This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a conversation with Dan Ariely, the celebrated behavioral economist and three-time New York Times–bestselling author of Predictably Irrational, The Upside of Irrationality, and The Honest Truth About Dishonesty. Listen as Dan shares captivating stories from his Duke University research lab, practical strategies for applying behavioral economics in business and personal life.In this episode we discuss:00:29 - Introducing Dan Ariely01:32 - Becoming a Behavioral Economist05:11 - Behavioral Economics vs Classic Economics 10:33 - Psychological Factors That Impact Decision Making21:01 - Strategies Businesses Use26:49 - Personal Beliefs37:18 - Voting for Politicians 43:07 - Advice for Others47:31 - Learning More48:35 - ConclusionResources:TED TalksAmazon PageDan's WebsiteThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here
Episode 50: How Do You Voice Act? - features legendary voice actor Billy West as he shares how he brings animated characters to life, from Fry, Dr. Zoidberg, and Professor Farnsworth in Futurama to Bugs Bunny in the original Space Jam.Episode Summary: This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a candid conversation with Billy West, the legendary voice actor behind some of animation’s most beloved shows. With a career spanning Futurama, The Ren & Stimpy Show, Doug, Looney Tunes, and countless commercials, Billy opens up about how voice acting really works—what happens behind the mic, how actors shape characters, and why the voices we hear can leave a lasting impact on our emotions and identity.Listen as Billy also shares heartfelt stories from decades in the industry, advice for aspiring voice actors, and a reminder that behind every cartoon is a human voice shaped by experience, humor, and resilience.In this episode we discuss:00:27- Introducing Billy West01:29 - Becoming a Voice Actor18:23 - Voice Acting Industry22:26 - Creating a Voice26:15 - Impact on Health31:20 - Recording Process34:33 - Replicating a Voice36:33 - Advice for Others41:31 - Evolution of the Industry45:50 - Learning More53:31 - ConclusionResources:IMDB Billy's WebsiteThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here
Episode 49: How Are Homicides Investigated? - has veteran Tulsa homicide detective Sgt. Dave Walker breaking down what really happens after a murder. Episode Summary: This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Sgt. Dave Walker, a seasoned homicide detective known for his work on The First 48 and decades of experience solving violent crimes.Listen as Dave shares how homicide investigations begin, what detectives actually look for, how long cases take to resolve, and the emotional and ethical challenges faced by those who work in murder investigations.In this episode we discuss:00:28- Introducing Dave Walker01:43 - Becoming a Detective08:34 - Finding a Fit11:21 - Department Structure 14:05 - Homicide19:04 - Key Information22:29 - Crime Scene32:45 - Psychological Impact 38:19 - After the Investigation 42:57 - Wrongful Convictions 48:59 - Advice for Others51:07 - Learning More53:31 - ConclusionResources:Dave's Podcast (Solve'em When You Get'em)Dave's WebsiteFirst 48 BioThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here
Episode 48: What Is Speedcubing? - has world-record blindfolded solver Tommy Cherry explain how he conquers the standard 3×3×3 cube blindfolded in just 12 seconds.Episode Summary:This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Tommy Cherry, a world-renowned speedcuber known for holding multiple world records in blindfolded Cube solving.Listen as Tommy shares the mental techniques behind memorizing a cube, the structure of professional speedcubing competitions, and how the sport has grown into a global phenomenon.In this episode we discuss:00:32- Introducing Tommy Cherry01:34 - Speedcubing Beginnings 20:17 - Speedcubing Competitions25:03 - Blindfolded??36:04 - Roman Rooms (Memory Strategy)37:46 - Speedcubing Times42:18 - Preparing to Compete47:24 - Professional Circuit59:43 - Advice for Others1:02:28 - Learning More1:04:06 - ConclusionResources:World Cube Association ProfileBlindfolded 3x3x3 World Record PerformanceThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here
Episode 47: How Does Bluetooth Work? – Bluetooth & Wireless Expert Nick Hunn Explains How This Invisible Technology Operates and How It Became Widely Adopted.Episode Summary: This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Nick Hunn, an award-winning author and pioneering wireless technology expert renowned for coining the term “hearables” and advancing Bluetooth LE Audio standards. Nick is recognized for his influential work in shaping modern wireless communication and smart audio solutions.Listen as Nick shares his insights on how Bluetooth technology works, its evolution, and its growing impact on everyday life.In this episode we discuss:00:293- Introducing Nick Hunn01:30 - Bluetooth Beginnings 05:06 - Evolution of Bluetooth14:20 - Bluetooth Standards22:42 - Bluetooth Hardware 28:53 - Connectivity34:32 - Technology Concerns39:51 - Adoption Sentiment43:15 - Interesting Uses48:55 - Future Trends53:54 - Advice for Others55:35 - Learning More57:06 - ConclusionResources:Nick Hunn's WebsiteNick Hunn's BooksThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here
Episode 46: What Are Extreme Overvalued Beliefs? - has Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Dr. Tahir Rahman, explain how beliefs and not delusions are responsible for attacks.Episode Summary:This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Dr. Tahir Rahman, an award-winning author and physician-scientist at Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Rahman is recognized for helping develop a threat assessment framework centered on obsessions, delusions, and extreme overvalued beliefs.Listen as Dr. Rahman shares his insights on the impacts of extreme overvalued beliefs (EOB).In this episode we discuss:00:29 - Introducing Dr. Tahir Rahman01:54 - Psychiatry Beginnings 08:08 - History of EOB16:00 - Escalation to Violence (Lee Harvey Oswald)30:13 - Warning Signs47:28 - Good vs. Bad 59:21 - Advice for Average Person1:06:08 - Learning More1:07:30 - ConclusionResources:Dr. Rahman's WebsitePsychology Today ArticleExtreme Overvalued Beliefs BookThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here
Episode 45: How Do You Become a UFC Fighter? - features Ultimate Fighting Championship contender, Angela 'Overkill' Hill, as she shares her journey to becoming one of the best female strawweight fighters in UFC history.Episode Summary:This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Angela "Overkill" Hill. Angela is a former Invicta FC Champion and Muay Thai Champion, known for her striking abilities, ranking among the top in significant strikes landed per minute in the UFC. With multiple "Fight of the Night" honors, she's become one of the most exciting fighters in the promotion.Listen as Angela shares her journey in MMA, including her rise to becoming a top contender in the strawweight division.In this episode we discuss:00:26 - Introducing Angela "Overkill" Hill01:35 - Becoming a Fighter08:08 - Passion for Fighting13:12 - Path to Being a Professional19:55 - Fighting Camp25:12 - Evolution of Technique27:52 - Always Fighting the Best31:11 - Emotions35:30 - Overcoming Injuries41:08 - Misconceptions43:23 - Advice for Aspiring Fighters47:59 - Learning More49:06 - ConclusionResources:UFC Fighting Profile2Straws PodcastAngela's The Joe Rogan Experience EpisodeAngela's Instagram This episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here
Episode 44: What’s Life Like As A Competitive Eater? - has 15th Ranked Major League Eating competitor George Chiger, explain how he navigates the world of competitive eating.Episode Summary:This episode of The Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and George Chiger, also known as "The Smorgasbord." From devouring hot dogs at the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest to setting a record by consuming two 8-ounce cans of Easy Cheese American Spray Cheese in just 59 seconds, there's a reason he's ranked 15th in the world by Major League Eating.Listen as George shares his fascinating journey as a competitive eater.In this episode we discuss:00:28 - Introducing George Chiger01:40 - Becoming a Competitive Eater08:23 - Eating Strategies12:37 - Preparing for an Event18:44 - The Eating Circuit26:37 - Eating Disciplines29:00 - Amounts of Food34:22 - Talking to Doctors37:24 - Weight Loss Journey44:38 - Advice for Aspiring Eaters48:20 - Learning More49:29 - ConclusionResources:Major League Eating Profile MLE Rankings George's FacebookGeorge's InstagramThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 43: How Are People Exonerated?- features Exoneree Marvin Cotton Jr. sharing his story of being wrongfully imprisoned for 19 years, 7 months, and 12 days for a crime he did not commit.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Marvin Cotton Jr. Marvin's story provides a powerful look into how someone can be wrongfully convicted, the steps involved in the exoneration process, and the challenges of regaining freedom after nearly two decades of wrongful imprisonment.Listen as Marvin shares the emotional and practical struggles of being wrongfully convicted and reintegrating into society.In this episode we discuss:00:27 - Introducing Marvin Cotton Jr.01:25 - The Crime & Wrongful Conviction11:31 - The Feeling14:51 - Prison Interactions26:37 - Exoneration Process37:38 - Reintegration51:53 - Negative Stigma58:14 - Guidance for the Average Person1:01:17 - Learning More1:03:16 - ConclusionResources:Better, Not Broken BookOrganization of ExonereesFox 2 DetroitConviction Integrity UnitNational Registry of ExonerationsThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 42: What Is Taekwondo? features Taekwondo Hall of Fame Inductee Jinsue Park sharing his extensive familial knowledge and experience in Taekwondo.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Jinsue Park, a Grandmaster in Taekwondo. Jinsue's competitive highlights include representing the US Junior Olympic Taekwondo Team, winning gold at the 1991 International Goodwill Championship, and earning the Grand Champion title at the 24th American Invitational Eagle Classic. These achievements led to his induction into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame.Listen as Jinsue shares how Taekwondo can change your perspective and body.In this episode we discuss:00:25 - Introducing Jinsue Park01:49 - Earliest Memories08:14 - Applying Knowledge14:21 - What Is Taekwondo?17:12 - Sport vs. Art20:27 - Offensive23:04 - Distinctions Between Martial Arts27:58 - Challenges33:34 - Begin Your Journey41:18 - Learning More42:30 - ConclusionResources:The KwansThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 41: What Are Intellectual Property Rights? - features Intellectual Property Rights Lawyer, Karin Coger, explaining trademarks and copyrighting.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Karin Coger, an experienced lawyer. As the founder of Coger Law Firm, she offers virtual legal counsel services in trademark and copyright registration.Listen as Karin shares vital information about protecting your ideas and work.In this episode we discuss:00:28 - Introducing Karin Coger01:28 - Legal Beginnings04:22 - Copyright05:04 - Benefits of Copyright08:34 - Copyright Infringement09:39 - State vs. Federal?10:13 - Releasing Work11:15 - Misconceptions19:30 - Distinction between Trademark & Copyright21:19 - Trademark Rights26:52 - Using Generative AI29:22 - Advice For Business Owners30:45 - Learning More31:31 - ConclusionsResources:Coger Law FirmTrademark LookupThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 40: What Is Rett Syndrome? - features International Rett Syndrome Foundation (IRSF) Family & Community Engagement Manager, Samantha Brant, sharing her and her daughter Macy's story, along with valuable information about the syndrome.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Samantha Brant, a strong mother who helps raise funds and guide other parents through the Rett Syndrome journeys.Listen as Sam shares her and her daughter Macy's inspiring story of handling the challenges of Rett Syndrome.In this episode we discuss:00:26 - Introducing Samantha Brant01:36 - Reading Rett09:05 - Involvement with IRSF15:54 - What is it?19:02 - Common Symptoms23:00 - Atypical vs. Typical25:48 - Known Causes & Risk Factors28:46 - Caretaker Challenges34:06 - Grieving Journey39:21 - Options for Managing44:14 - Learning More48:09 - ConclusionsResources:International Rett Syndrome FoundationRaise a Glass Against RettThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episodes 27-39: Highlights features our best moments from the past 13 months with world-class experts—including NYT bestsellers, FBI agents, and Emmy-winning stop-motion animators.
Episode Summary:
This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast brings you the best moments from the last 13 episodes. We've condensed insightful highlights on topics like the original cowboy boot, memory competitions, and Visual Snow Syndrome.
Whether you're a new listener or a loyal fan, this episode offers a perfect snapshot of what our podcast is all about.
In this episode we discuss:
00:00 - Introduction
00:29 - Episode 27: Zohr Founder, Komal Choong
04:31 - Episode 28: Threadwood Award-Winning Animators, Alexis Deprey & Scott DaRos
08:25 - Episode 29: Veteran Fighter Pilot, Kurt Dittmer
12:12 - Episode 30: New York Times Bestselling Author, Susan Piver
15:50 - Episode 31: Visual Snow Initiative Co-founder, Paul Domb
20:03 - Episode 32: New York Times Bestselling Author, Erin Jeanne McDowell
22:30 - Episode 33: Retired FBI Special Agent, Donald Albracht
26:20 - Episode 34: Experienced Death Doula, Kacie Gikonyo
30:00 - Episode 35: Hyer Boots CEO, Zach Lawless
32:51 - Episode 36: Retired FBI Section Chief, Tom Nunemaker
37:26 - Episode 37: 5-time USA Memory Champion, Nelson Dellis
39:40 - Episode 38: Author and Book Coach, Jennie Nash
43:53 - Episode 39: World Orienteering Championship Competitor, Tori Borish
45:38 - Conclusion & Closing Remarks
This episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music
here.
Episode 39: What Is Orienteering? - features World Orienteering Championship Competitor, Tori Borish, sharing her orienteering journey.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Tori Borish, an international orienteering competitor. She has been a regular member of the US National Orienteering Team, participating in the World Cup and North American Orienteering Championships.Listen as Tori explains how orienteering works and her journey to represent our country on the world stage.In this episode we discuss:00:25 - Introducing Tori Borish02:01 - Becoming an Orienteer04:56 - The Basics06:42 - Competition Types13:14 - Markers14:21 - Land Navigation Skills18:35 - Equipment21:23 - Hobbyist to Competitor29:35 - Competition Challenges33:47 - Watching Others37:15 - Advice for New Orienteers39:26 - Learning More41:04 - ConclusionResources:Orienteering USAOrienteering BlogTori's AccoladesThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 38: How Are Books Published? - features Author and Book Coach Jennie Nash, who explains the intricacies of the publishing process.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Jennie Nash, an author and book coach. Jennie has penned nine books across three genres, including "Blueprint for a Book: Build Your Novel from the Inside Out." She's not only achieved personal success but also excels in guiding others as the Founder and CEO of Author Accelerator. Her coaching prowess has helped clients secure lucrative deals, including projects like "The Chicken Sisters," a New York Times bestseller and a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick in 2020.Listen as Jennie shares her insights, which have guided numerous authors to success.In this episode we discuss:00:25 - Introducing Jennie Nash02:19 - Being an Author is a "Thing"05:29 - Beginning to Write09:16 - Book Coaching13:11 - A Shift in Publishing23:02 - Allure of Self-Publishing32:12 - Book Launch38:38 - Finding vs. Serving an Audience40:59 - AI in Writing49:32 - Advice for New Writers52:00 - Learning More53:49 - ConclusionResources:Jennie's WebsiteAuthor AcceleratorJennie's BooksThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 37: How Do Memory Champions Train Their Minds? - features 5-time memory champion Nelson Dellis, who shares his insights on how to memorize information.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Nelson Dellis, a 5-time USA Memory Champion. Nelson is the current world record holder for memorizing over 9 decks of cards in 30 minutes, memorizing 907 digits in 30 minutes, and memorizing 235 names in just 15 minutes.Listen as Nelson reveals the strategies that made him an accomplished memory competitor.In this episode we discuss:00:23 - Introducing Nelson Dellis02:13 - Discovering Memory Competitions03:54 - Memory Competitions06:50 - Understanding Memory08:26 - Memory Strategies16:21 - Competition Training17:46 - Personal Usage23:42 - Competitive Habits26:51 - Applications to Aphantasia33:52 - Flow State36:01 - Internal Storage39:57 - Challenges Memorizing40:54 - Learning More41:51 - ConclusionResources:Nelson's WebsiteHire Nelson as a Memory CoachNelson's YouTube ChannelThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 36: How was the Unabomber Investigated? - features Retired FBI Section Chief, Tom Nunemaker, who reveals details about the UNABOM investigation.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Tom Nunemaker, who retired after serving 23 years in the FBI. He completed his career while selected for the Senior Executive Service and assigned as the Chief of the Violent Crimes Section at FBIHQ. However, in February of 1995, Tom was the headquarters supervisor for the UNABOM investigation.Listen as Tom shares his perspective on how the 17-year-long UNABOM investigation was conducted.In this episode we discuss:00:29 - Introducing Tom Nunemaker02:12 - Initial Assignment06:04 - Investigative Challenges10:55 - Case Details26:47 - Random Victims31:39 - The Feeling at the Time36:10 - Arresting Ted Kaczynski42:03 - Trial & Legal Proceedings50:20 - Applications to Future Investigations55:35 - Learning More59:17 - ConclusionResources:Hunting The American Terrorist by Terry Turchie & Kathleen PuckettThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.
Episode 35: What’s The Story Behind The Original Cowboy Boot? - features Hyer Boots CEO, Zach Lawless, who shares his family’s legacy.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Zach Lawless, the great-great-grandson of C.H. Hyer, renowned as the inventor of the original cowboy boot. Currently serving as the CEO of Hyer Boots, Zach Lawless carries on the legacy of his illustrious ancestor, spearheading the family business into modern times.Listen as Zach shares his family's history and the revitalization of their business.In this episode we discuss:01:42 - Introducing Zach Lawless03:46 - History of The Cowboy Boot12:52 - Lesser Known History15:27 - Beginning The Business21:45 - Current Design24:42 - Digital Age26:54 - Future Vision29:10 - Projects30:09 - Personal Importance33:06 - Supporting Hyer Boots34:07 - ConclusionResources:Store LocatorHyer Boots WebsiteThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.























