Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness

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Join Jonathan Van Ness (Queer Eye) each week as they explore everything under (and sometimes beyond!) the sun with scientists, historians, activists, entertainers, and other brilliant guest experts. New episodes of Getting Curious drop on Wednesdays. On Mondays, join us for Pretty Curious. our podcast on all things beauty! Subscribe to Extra Curious for exclusive episodes of Ask JVN, where Jonathan's answering your questions about sex, dating, and more. You can follow Getting Curious on Instagram and Twitter @curiouswithjvn. Transcripts for all episodes are available at jonathanvanness.com/podcasts. Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email...

Can You Inherit Trauma - And If So, Can You Inherit Healing?

JVN sits down with journalist and author James Longman to explore one of the most fascinating questions in mental health: can you inherit trauma? Drawing from his deeply personal journey and his new book The Inherited Mind, James unpacks the science behind genetic predisposition, epigenetics, and the interplay between nature and nurture. Together, they explore how trauma shapes our brains, why mental illness remains so stigmatized, and whether healing can be passed down just as much as hardship.

Feb 19, • 57:47

PRETTY CURIOUS | The Under-Eye Fix You’ve Been Searching For - JVN Breaks It Down

Today, we’re unpacking everything from the state of the world to the state of our own little bubble. It’s giving life lessons with a little bit of pop culture chaos. From the art of letting go of goals that don’t serve you to the death of the Duolingo owl, we’re covering all the bases. Plus! JVN’s under-eye  hack - it’s major. Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJVN to learn more about the products from this episode, or head to JonathanVanNess.com for the transcript. Jonathan is on Instagram @JV

Feb 17, • 35:16

How Can I Make Romance Work For Me?

Jonathan sits down with certified sexologist and intimacy expert Shan Boodram for a Valentine's Day deep dive into the world of romance, sex, and relationships. Together, they explore how to make love work for you—whether you’re single, coupled, or somewhere in between. Shan breaks down the key ingredients of a healthy relationship, explains why we often confuse intensity for intimacy, and shares how to bring more fun, safety, and fulfillment into dating and hookup culture. Plus, they get into t

Feb 12, • 54:05

PRETTY CURIOUS | JVN Goes Blonde, BTS at The View, and NYC with the Fab 5 - Let’s Get Into It!

JVN tackles the age old question: do blondes have more fun? On this episode of Pretty Curious, Jonathan Van Ness and producer Chris McClure spill the tea on JVN’s latest glow-up: going blonde. They chat about the chaotic history of Snapchat filters, the art of cheering on your friends (without the jealousy), and what it really means to embrace change. And for all the curly-haired cuties out there—Jonathan answers a listener question about reviving stubborn top-layer curls. Plus! BTS from Queer

Feb 10, • 35:23

What’s The Value In Community?

JVN sits down with Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon—educator, entrepreneur, and founder of The Village Market—to unpack one of the biggest myths of our time: being self-made. In a culture that glorifies individual success, Dr. Key challenges us to rethink the power of community. Together, they explore why no one truly makes it alone, how the myth of self-sufficiency keeps us isolated, and why collaboration is the real key to overcoming systemic barriers. Dr. Key shares the economic, social, and emotional co

Feb 5, • 49:36

PRETTY CURIOUS | JVN’s Sculptra Review And Why You Should Ditch Microspending

Beauty, Botox, and the Battle Against Microspending—in this episode of Pretty Curious, Jonathan Van Ness and producer Chris McClure dive into everything from winter skincare updates to political anxieties. Jonathan spills the tea on their latest dermatology adventure—trying Sculptra for the first time—and how/why they low-key tricked their husband into getting Botox. Plus! They break down the art (and financial wisdom) of cutting back on microspending. But it’s not all beauty talk—Jona

Feb 3, • 33:24

How Do I Stop Being Such A People Pleaser?

JVN sits down with Kati Morton, a licensed therapist and bestselling author, to dive deep into the world of people-pleasing. Together, they unpack why people-pleasing isn’t just about being nice—it’s about discomfort with other people’s discomfort, and why it leaves so many of us feeling invisible, drained, and resentful. Kati shares her expert tips on breaking free from the cycle, including practical strategies like “opposite action” and learning to set boundaries without guilt. They discuss w

Jan 29, • 53:15

PRETTY CURIOUS | Could You Be Making An Expensive Hair Mistake? Do This Before You Go Too Far

Beauty, politics, and Grammy predictions—oh my! In this episode of Pretty Curious, Jonathan Van Ness is answering listener questions and talking all things winter skincare to Hollywood hair theories. Need to save your dry, chapped hands this season? JVN offers a three-step moisturizing hack that’ll have your hands softer than ever. Plus! Jonathan’s Hot and Healed tour is kicking off soon! They talk about their creative process and how Pilates and stand-up have been therapeutic recently

Jan 27, • 34:50

What's The Real Cost Of Not Trusting Yourself? A Trust Expert Weighs In

Trust—it’s a five-letter word that makes the world go 'round. In this episode, JVN sits down with Rachel Botsman, a leading expert on trust in the modern world, to explore the role trust plays in our relationships, decisions, and even society at large. Together, they dive into why trust isn’t just a feeling but a belief, how impulsivity and unmet expectations erode it, and how to rebuild trust with ourselves and others after it’s been broken. They unpack why “trust is a confident relationship wi

Jan 22, • 53:07

PRETTY CURIOUS | JVN Says You Deserve Better Skincare This Winter— Here’s How

Winter skin woes, Pilates breakthroughs, and a whole lot of beauty tea!  JVN is diving into all things skincare for the coldest months this side of the globe, from must-have moisturizers to whether that fancy face oil is really working for you. Plus! JVN spills on their latest pilates journey and the return to group fitness. But it’s not all glow-ups and gym gains—JVN also gets real about the highs and lows of launching a beauty brand, the lessons they’ve learned along the way, and why

Jan 20, • 39:45

Is My Friendship Over? A Friendship Coach Weighs In

Friendship breakups. Knowing when to hold on—and when to let go. JVN sits down with friendship coach Danielle Bayard Jackson to unpack the complexities of platonic relationships and why they can be just as emotionally charged as romantic ones. They dive into the signs that a friendship may have run its course, how to end things with integrity, and whether “friendship should be easy” is really just a myth. Plus! The emotional toll of ghosting, how to handle resentment, and why strong fri

Jan 15, • 51:16

PRETTY CURIOUS | JVN’s Golden Globes Experience

Golden Globes glamour, behind-the-scenes intel, and a whole lot of feels—this episode has layers, and we’re not talking about a haircut. JVN takes us inside their first-ever Golden Globes red carpet, from jaw-dropping fashion moments (Emma Stone’s pixie! Andrew Scott’s suit!) to mingling with Hollywood icons at the after-parties. Plus! BTS from the red carpet, handling the chaos of live interviews, and that very unexpected TMZ chase. But it’s not all fun and fashion—JVN also opens up a

Jan 13, • 33:33

How Do Weight Loss Medications Work?

GLP-1 medications are everywhere—on your FYPs, on the evening news, and, as JVN shares, in your own weekly routine. But what do these drugs really do? In this no-holds-barred conversation with Dr. Terry Simpson, a surgeon and culinary medicine expert, JVN dives deep into the science, the side effects, and the cultural firestorm surrounding GLP-1s like Ozempic. Are they the future of weight loss and metabolic health—or just another wellness trend? Trigger Warning: This episode contains

Jan 8, • 52:39

PRETTY CURIOUS | 5 Haircare Hacks You Need To Know For The New Year

New year, new realizations! We are so back to kick off 2025 with a deep dive into  joy reclamation, breaking free from negative feedback loops, and embracing joy without guilt. Plus! JVN spills the tea on the look they’re wearing to their first ever Golden Globes gig (Christian Siriano is involved, so you know it’s major), dishes on beauty holy grails you actually need in 2025, and answers listener questions submitted by you gorgeous curious people. Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJ

Jan 6, • 39:08

The Ultimate Guide To Help You Thrive in 2025

Happy New Year, Curious People! It’s 2025! Kick off the New Year with a truly transformative conversation with Stephanie Harrison, founder of The New Happy! In this episode, we dive into what it means to leave behind “Old Happy”—the toxic pursuit of perfection, individualism, and relentless achievement—and embrace “New Happy,” a philosophy rooted in connection, self-compassion, and contributing to the world. JVN gets candid about navigating shame and embarrassment while Stephanie shares

Jan 1, • 1:01:47

PRETTY CURIOUS | JVN’s Mom Wants You To Trust Your Instincts And Stop Second Guessing Yourself

Reporting to all you curious people from the liminal week between Christmas and New  Year’s —JVN and their iconic mom, Mary Oaks, are bringing us a festive kiki straight from Austin, Texas! Recorded mid-Christmas revelry, this episode is brimming with family vibes, advice for trusting your aesthetic instinct, and some mic drops about life in small town America. Whether you’re here for the holiday glow or a little aesthetic inspo - this dynamic mother-child duo is serving, darling. Foll

Dec 30, 2024 • 34:59

The First 3 Things You Should Do To Achieve Financial Stability

ICYMI: This week we’re answering all of the money questions you have always wanted answered. What the heck is a Roth IRA? How should you approach spending money? What’s a high-yield savings account and should I have one? Internationally recognized money expert Tori Dunlap joins Jonathan to answer all these questions and more to teach us how we can all save our money. Tori Dunlap is an internationally recognized money and career expert, and podcast host. After saving $100,000 at age 25,

Dec 25, 2024 • 58:41

PRETTY CURIOUS | Lindsay Lohan’s Hairstylist Shares The Secret To Amazing Hair

Mariah, Lindsay, Sabrina, Jennifer, Hailey…what do all those gorgeous ladies have in common? Two words. One Name. Danielle Priano. When we tell you that we’re excited to have Danille on today’s episode - that’s an understatement - we’re OVER THE MOON! She is a hair icon, a legend, and the most sought after hair stylist in the game. We’re talking life in the industry, tips for the perfect slicked back ponytail, and HAIR darling! Take the tips you learn here to your next holiday party! New York b

Dec 23, 2024 • 43:16

How Will Ilana Glazer Help You Find The Funny When Everything Sucks In The World (and da clerb)?

In da clerb, we all fam - and we’re so thrilled to welcome Ilana Glazer to “clerb Curious” this week. Ilana stopped by to talk about her upcoming sophomore special, Human Magic, streaming on Hulu this Friday, December 20th! We’re talking about how she developed her new special, the inspiration for her comedy these days, and how she stays plugged into humanity in a dehumanizing world… Ilana Glazer is a comedian, actress, writer, and producer celebrated for her sharp humor and fearless storytelli

Dec 18, 2024 • 59:45

PRETTY CURIOUS | What Are The 5 JVN Approved Beauty Gifts You Should Give This Holiday Season?

I know you’re all getting your holiday shopping ON, honey. It’s that time of year, and while it’s not the reason for the season - it is one of the main events. So today, we’re coming to you with a very special episode… Move over, Nonsense Christmas! Get outta town, Barry Manilow’s Very Barry Christmas - It’s time for the Pretty Curious Holiday Gift Guide episode. We’re giving you the Top 5 JVN Approved beauty gifts to give this holiday season! It’s giving Oprah. It’s giving intel you n

Dec 16, 2024 • 46:47

Who's The Newest Member Of Queer Eye? Meet Jeremiah Brent!

Who’s that?! Why, it’s the newest member of the Fab 5, Jeremiah Brent! Jeremiah stopped by on a very special day: the season drop for Queer Eye Season 9 - out now on Netflix. Jeremiah and JVN talk Queer Eye behind-the-scenes, Jeremiah’s design process and ethos, and some science fiction thrown in for good measure. You do NOT want to miss this… Jeremiah Brent is an interior designer, television personality, author, and founder of lifestyle brand Atrio and Jeremiah Brent Design (JBD), an

Dec 11, 2024 • 57:34

PRETTY CURIOUS | What Should I Do To My Face? With Dr. Anthony Youn

We’re going under the metaphorical scalpel today on Pretty Curious with Dr. Anthony Youn! We’re tackling everything from upper and lower eyelid surgery (or upper blephs & lower blephs as we refer to them in this episode) to the importance of diet and giving the body the opportunity to “autojuvenate” before going under the knife for substantial plastic surgery. We’re also talking about regional plastic surgery trends, intermittent fasting, and Dr. Youn’s newest book, Younger For Life. Dr. Anthon

Dec 9, 2024 • 47:58

What Is Menopause?

Hot flashes, brain fog, sleepless nights—menopause is often shrouded in mystery and stigma. But what if it didn’t have to be? In this episode, we’re joined by, Dr. Louise Newson, a trailblazing GP and menopause specialist who’s work is transforming how the world understands this pivotal life stage. Menopause care is a fundamental healthcare issue, and Dr. Newson brings both science and empathy to the table. Whether you’re navigating menopause, supporting someone who is, or simply curiou

Dec 4, 2024 • 54:20

PRETTY CURIOUS | When Do You Know It's Time To Bet On Yourself? with Darcei Giles

We’ve all been there - we’ve all experienced doubt, uncertainty, not knowing when to tune out the outside opinions. But! This week’s guest, Darcei Giles (one of the original YouTube beauty queens), learned how to bet on herself and built an online beauty empire all her own. Lucky for us, she’s here to inspire us all to do the same! Whether you’re a young entrepreneur, a blossoming beauty influencer, or on the cusp of the next chapter in the adventure of your life, Darcei and JVN suss out how we

Dec 2, 2024 • 48:35

How Do We Host The Best Holiday Dinner Party? with Sohla El-Waylly

This year we’re thankful for you, curious people! It’s the holiday season - a time for office parties, family get-togethers, and friendsgivings. To help us figure out how to make the most scrumptious spread and host the best holiday party with unbeatable vibes, we’re bringing in chef extraordinaire, Sohla El-Waylly! We’re talking turduckens, mac ‘n cheese, hot toddies…are your mouths watering yet? Plus - Sohla’s favorite holiday memories! Sohla El Waylly is a culinary innovator and pas

Nov 27, 2024 • 48:32

PRETTY CURIOUS | Did Taylor Swift Sport Your Glitter Freckles To Monday Night Football? with Fazit Beauty

Emma Stone, Rashida Jones, Pippi Longstocking… what do all these ladies have in common? FRECKLES. They all have freckles. Well honey, freckles got launched into the zeitgeist this fall when Taylor Swift was photographed wearing glitter freckles to a Kansas City game. Yes. GLI-TTER FRE-CKLES. So, just like the rest of the world, we wanted to learn more! That’s why today on the pod, we are welcoming the co-founders of Fazit Beauty: Nina LaBruna & Aliett Buttelman! Fazit Beauty is bes

Nov 25, 2024 • 46:25

How Do Different Generations Date?

It’s fall, it’s cuffing season, and maybe you’re looking for a way to extend that new, cozy relationship to a love for all seasons… Dating can be a mystery to some, but to our guest expert - it’s a scientific method! Today, we have Logan Ury from the new Netflix show The Later Daters talking to us all about how to become a better dater - at any age - and how we can say “f*ck the spark!” once and for all. Plus! We’re covering the latest Hinge data, ethical non-monogamy, and “other signif

Nov 20, 2024 • 1:01:29

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s The Chemistry Of Cleanser? with The Beauty Brains Podcast

This week, we have an unbeatable cosmetic chemistry duo - Perry Romanowski & Valerie George from The Beauty Brains Podcast! We’re coming to you today with the 411 on a fundamental element of any skin care routine: cleanser. But what’s the deal with cleanser anyhow? How many kinds of cleansers are there? What are the differences between them? What are they doing on a microscopic level? What kinds of conditions do we need to be aware of when selecting a cleanser? We’re getting into al

Nov 18, 2024 • 38:11

How Do We Prepare For Trump 2.0?

It’s been a week since Trump won the 2024 election, and we’re still processing...everything? We’re processing what the future will bring for so many of our hard fought victories and protections. Gender-affirming care is heavy on our minds here on the Curious pods, and to help us parse out what’s to come, we’re bringing back the amazing ACLU lawyer/icon, Chase Strangio. JVN and Chase break down what paths of protection and recourse there are and talk all about the landmark, historic argu

Nov 13, 2024 • 1:16:02

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Does WICKED's Hair And Makeup Design Defy Gravity? (Part Two) with Frances Hannon

Makeup, Prosthetics, and Hair..oh my! Fellow Ozians! We’ve got more to share from our conversation with the Hair, Makeup, and Prosthetics designer of Wicked, Frances Hannon! We had so much fun talking to Frances, there was no possible way we could fit everything we talked about into one little (green) baby episode. Today, we’re talking more about Elphaba’s HMU, the nuts and bolts of Ozian body doubles & stand-ins, and which collaboration left Frances starstruck. Let’s go down to the

Nov 11, 2024 • 38:02

What Was The Cadaver Synod? with Alaina Urquhart and Ash Kelley from Morbid

It’s the day after the 2024 election, and we could all use a little detour of the mind- enter the hosts of the Morbid podcast, Alaina Urquhart & Ash Kelley! JVN, Alaina, and Ash take a trip back in time - 1100 years or so - to a Roman empire riddled with scandal and political unrest (sound familiar?). This morbid tale has it all: Popes. Murder. Magic. Corpses… Alaina Urquhart is the science-loving co-host of the podcast Morbid. As an autopsy technician by trade, paired with her deg

Nov 6, 2024 • 46:12

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do We Look So Gorgeous…Even In A Trump Ad? With Pattie Gonia

Grab your high-heel hiking boots, babes - we have the QUEEN of the outdoors, Pattie Gonia! JVN & Pattie sit down for a good ole pre-election kiki to talk all about the queer the outdoors, Pattie’s drag origin story, and the sad but true degree of separation - their surprising duo appearance in a Trump campaign advertisement. Y’all, you have to hear it to believe it! Pattie Gonia is a critically acclaimed drag queen, environmentalist and musician. To date, Pattie’s community is more

Nov 4, 2024 • 44:07

What’s It Going To Take To Win The 2024 Presidential Election? With Senator Elizabeth Warren

It’s a very special day on the pod, we have a returning guest and U.S. Senator from Massachusetts- Senator Elizabeth Warren! She’s joining us fresh from a tour around the midwest talking to folks on the ground about the issues that matter to them this election cycle. We’re in the final week before the 2024 Presidential election and we’re breaking down what’s left to consider before you cast your vote on November 5th. Your vote matters, and it’s critical to turn out. And not just that: d

Oct 30, 2024 • 1:11:03

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do We Get Over Dental Fear And Get The Best Smile Of Our Life?

You know what they say: You’re never fully dressed without a smile! This week on Pretty Curious, we’re talking all things dentistry with an iconic dental practitioner, Park 60 Lex’s Dr. Stephanie Dumanian! We’re talking gingivitis, halitosis, teeth whitening, flossing, fluoride - this list goes ON! Plus - more rapid fire favorites & some splurge and budget cleanser recommendations, and the differences between East Coast & West Coast smiles. Now, say cheese! Dr. Stephanie Dumani

Oct 28, 2024 • 41:07

Why Does Our Foreign Policy Suck So Bad?

Getting Curious superstar, Dr. Osamah Khalil, is back for the third installment of our series covering U.S. Foreign Policy from 1945 to 2024. If you haven’t caught those first two installments, no sweat! You can jump in here, or go back and take the whole course from the top - the choice is yours. In this episode, Dr. Khalil paints a picture of what the early days of the Global war on terror looked like from behind the closed doors of the Bush administration. and how many of the policie

Oct 23, 2024 • 1:21:59

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Does WICKED's Hair And Makeup Design Defy Gravity? (Part One) with Frances Hannon

Something has changed within us, curious people, something is not the same. We’ll never know a world without our episode speaking with Oscar winner, Frances Hannon, who just so happens to be the Hair, Makeup, and Prosthetics designer for the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked. We’re talking all about the alchemy Frances used to find the perfect shade of green for Elphaba, how Cynthia Erivo incorporated her own nail game into her character, and which of Ariana Grande’s R.E.M. products ma

Oct 21, 2024 • 57:37

How Can We Take Better Care Of Our Community Cats?

Alright, curious people, we’re getting frisky with one of our favorite topics - CATS! No, not the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical fantasia phenomenon…we’re talking to Hannah Shaw (aka the Kitten Lady) and her hubby Andrew Marttila (aka the Cat Photographer) all about their mission to photograph and tell the stories of cats all around the world. In their new book, Cats of the World, Hannah and Andrew explore the ways different countries take care of their community cats - and how western cul

Oct 16, 2024 • 59:15

PRETTY CURIOUS | What Wardrobe Essentials Do I Need For My Style Evolution?

Is your wardrobe in need of a revamp? Do you feel like you're missing some fundamental pieces? Can't figure out what fashion trends to incorporate in your everyday wardrobe to begin a “style evolution?” We’re here to help answer all those questions and more with stylist extraordinaire- Tiffany Briseno! We’re talking all about the accessories you should start wearing yesterday, the pair of jeans that can’t be beat, and we're learning all about her collaboration with music superstar, Shaw

Oct 14, 2024 • 41:19

What’s It Like To Be A College Voter In A Swing State This Election?

Do you want to know what’s happening on college campuses this election cycle? Then look no further, because JVN went to the heart of the matter in 2024 swing state, Michigan, at the University of Michigan Ford School of Public Policy. JVN got to talk to returning guest and Getting Curious MVP, Dean Celeste Watkins-Hayes, Political Science Professor (and Icon) Jenna Bednar, as well as two student leaders from the non-partisan voting organization Turn Up Turnout (TUT). TUT’s Co-Presidents

Oct 9, 2024 • 57:46

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do You Get The Best Brows Of Your Life? with Kelley Baker

You know what they say: eyebrows are sisters, not twins - but that doesn’t mean they can’t be stunning! And if you trust in this week’s expert, your brows are about to get the glow-up of the century. This week on PrettyCurious, we have world renowned brow expert Kelley Baker! We learn all about her stunning product line, Kelley Baker Brows, debunk face shape/brow shape myths, and a word of caution to anyone seeking that thin 90s brow… Kelley Baker is a world-renowned brow expert and vi

Oct 7, 2024 • 39:00

What’s The History Of Gay Cruising?

“Everybody's doing it, but nobody's talking about it because it's so secretive.” Alrighty, curious people, we’re getting spicy & kicking off Queer History Month with a smash (not a pass) - it’s all about gay cruising this week with professor & author, Alex Espinoza. We’re asking hard hitting questions like: Where was the first gloryhole? Were gays cruising during the Renaissance? Can U host? JK - but we do also talk about what apps like Grindr have done to this age old practice

Oct 2, 2024 • 57:44

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Can I Keep My Hair From Falling Out This Fall?

Is seasonal hair loss actually a thing? We’re about to find out with trichologist & cosmetic chemist Angela Onuoa! JVN and Angela debunk some common misconceptions about hair loss, break down proven hair restoration methods, and figure out once and for all if red light helmets really are all that.  Don’t it always seem to go, that you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone…including your hairline. Angela is one of the most established and well-known trichologist and cosmetic che

Sep 30, 2024 • 43:07

Can Meme Marketing Win The White House? with Sami Sage

This episode of Getting Curious, we’ve got one of the HBICs of Betches Media - Sami Sage! As we anxiously countdown to the U.S. Presidential Election this November, we know we’re going to need to laugh a little along the way…enter Betches: Betches Media has been giving us the intel we need with an extra few dashes of humor for years, and as online momentum grows for the Harris/Walz campaign we wanted to know from Sami - an original meme queen - can memes pave the road to Presidential victory?

Sep 25, 2024 • 50:15

PRETTY CURIOUS | Did TikTok Make Me Buy It? With Jill Dunn & Carlene Hggins

We have the incredible hosts of the Breaking Beauty Podcast on Pretty Curious today - Jill Dunn & Carlene Higgins! We’re going all in on the behemoth, the almighty…TikTok Shop. Plus - they dropped some some amaaaaazing #DamnGood product recommendations you won’t want to miss. Jill Dunn and Carlene Higgins, are two longtime beauty editors who have seen it all and swatched it all, and they’re here to tell you what’s good. Whether you’re searching for the latest insider-fave foundatio

Sep 23, 2024 • 45:33

How Did You Become An Iconic Nature Photographer? with Cristina Mittermeier and Paul Nicklen

If you’ve ever picked up a National Geographic and skimmed across the gorgeous images that cover those pages - you’ve probably come across the work of our guest experts. This week, we’re coming to you with a LIVE! Getting Curious episode with THE preeminent nature photographers in the game about the risk and reward of their art, their conservation efforts, and how they support each other in the process like the power couple they are! Cristina "Mitty" Mittermeier, a visionary photograph

Sep 18, 2024 • 1:21:26

PRETTY CURIOUS | Is Gilded Age Hair So Big Because It’s Full Of Secrets?

Think Gilded Age hair is super 19th century? Uhhh - think again! The hairstyling practices and salon culture that we’ve come to know today draw major inspiration from the American salons of the Gilded Age (which of course drew inspiration from the French salons across the pond…vive la France)! What mysteries are hiding underneath the pompadour poofs of Gilded Age hair? Well wonder no more, because we’ve got a brilliant guest for you today to break it all down - Elizabeth Block! It’s giving histo

Sep 16, 2024 • 37:54

What Is Project 2025? with Strict Scrutiny

The Destiny’s Child of constitutional law (aka Strict Scrutiny) is back on Getting Curious to help us digest and dissect all the wack-a-doodle nonsense that is: Project 2025. Leah Litman & Kate Shaw from the hit podcast Strict Scrutiny sat down with JVN to really parse out the MAGA manifesto. We’re talking all about Project 2025’s hallmark proposals, the key players involved, as well as tossing in some Supreme Court, Alito/Thomas updates for good measure. Leah Litman is an assistan

Sep 11, 2024 • 1:02:29

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Did You Become The Queen Of British Beauty? with Caroline Hirons

Caroline Hirons, arguably the most important figure in British beauty, stopped by this week’s Pretty Curious and is holding serious court, babes. Caroline gives the best skin in the biz, and she’s breaking down all the goodness she’s got going on over at her skincare brand, Skin Rocks. Plus! We’re talking Gen Alpha skincare, English breakfasts, and just exactly how the “Caroline effect” has taken over the British beauty space. Caroline grew up around the beauty industry, as both her mo

Sep 9, 2024 • 35:06

How Gay Was Abraham Lincoln?

We’re looking for a man in politics. Thick thighs. 6’4”. Blue eyes. Abraham Lincoln, course - or as we’re lovingly referring to him on this episode: GAY-braham Lincoln. That’s right - today we’re exploring whether or not  “America’s best president” was also a soft-top zaddy! And to do that - we’re bringing in experts from the upcoming film, Lover of Men. We’ve got Shaun Peterson (the director) and Thomas Balcerski (one of the film’s historians) joining JVN to give us the receipts, proof

Sep 4, 2024 • 1:09:27

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s Happening Over On Ask JVN?

Buckle in, sweetie - we’re getting hot & steamy and going behind the paywall for a very special preview of our Apple Podcast Subscription show, “Ask JVN”! What’s Ask JVN, you ask? Well babes, it’s our scintillating little show where we talk about sex - and other things too. It’s giving Talk Sex With Sue Johanson. JVN & Chris (Producer on the Curious Pods), talk current events, TikToks that make us LOL, and answer all the burning questions you submit on Instagram & AskJVN.com

Sep 2, 2024 • 35:02

ICYMI: What Are Tradwives?

There’s a group of far right influencers lurking on your social media feeds. They post organic recipes, millennial mom advice, and #glowups. And they’re using this content to promote white supremacist ideas. This week, Dr. Eviane Leidig joins us to discuss who these women are and how they’re spreading hate on social media. Dr. Eviane Leidig is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie postdoctoral fellow at Tilburg University. Her research specializes in the global far-right, gender, and online radical

Aug 28, 2024 • 1:10:45

PRETTY CURIOUS | Can Face Yoga Make Me Hotter?

Fumiko Takatsu, creator of the Face Yoga Method, stopped by Pretty Curious to help JVN find some easy, physiological, and fun ways we can keep our faces looking and feeling hot- at any age! Fumiko gave us amazing insight into what it takes to be a leader in the field, and how she’s inspired and helped so many people with her techniques! For nearly two decades, Fumiko Takatsu’s Face Yoga Method has used her proven combination of breath, mindset, and Face Yoga Poses to revolutionize the

Aug 26, 2024 • 35:49

Is There Such A Thing As Constructive Criticism? with adrienne maree brown

Do you ever feel the need to “gather” someone online? Or maybe someone in your life? It’s perfectly human! But maybe we should think twice about how we go about making that correction - and how we can make it in the most loving way possible. To help you and us do that, we’ve got adrienne maree brown back on the pod! Following her 2020 visit to Getting Curious, adrienne is here to talk all about the ideas in her new book, Loving Corrections, and help all of us give and receive feedback b

Aug 21, 2024 • 1:03:27

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do You Make A Demure "It" Brand?

We’re not a little bit obsessed with Nécessaire, we’re big-BIG time obsessed with Nécessaire and its co-founder, Randi Christiansen! Bodycare, one of the more niche corners of the beauty industry, is beyond important to our wellbeing. After all, as Randi says, “skin doesn’t stop at the neck!” Plus, we’ve got a JVN Hair Update, a word to the wise for all of you extension girlies about the scalp damage you could be facing, and the 411 on heatless rollers! Randi Christiansen is the CEO an

Aug 19, 2024 • 44:24

What’s Going On With Our Buttholes?

We’re telling the truth, the HOLE truth, and nothing BUTT the truth this week. It’s all about anal health today on the pod, and we’re sitting down with one of the most esteemed butt doctors in the biz: Dr. Evan Goldstein -  or as we call him “the Robin Hood of anal.” Dr. Goldstein is here to get us together and answer all the burning questions - literally. How do we wipe? What is the scoop on fiber? And what is a fistula? Asking for a friend… Dr. Goldstein is the founder and CEO of Bes

Aug 14, 2024 • 59:25

PRETTY CURIOUS | Should I Chop My Hair Off? with Sam McKnight

Princess Diana. Lady Gaga. Tilda Swinton. No, this is not a fever dream, it’s just a sampling of the illustrious career of the awe-inspiring hairstylist, Sam McKnight -  this week’s Pretty Curious guest! Buckle your seat beats, sweeties, JVN sat down with the iconic and truly one-of-one creative to pick his brain about navigating such an unbelievable and influential career. This episode is giving you 90s fashion lore, hot takes on the media's portrayal of the fashion industry, and some

Aug 12, 2024 • 42:07

How Can We Be Better Track & Field Fans? with Nikki Hiltz

Today on Getting Curious, we’ve got THE Olympic runner to watch -  Nikki Hiltz! This episode is coming to you on the eve of their race at the Women’s 1500m semifinals, but JVN caught up with Nikki in the salon chair for a podium worthy haircut  just before Nikki left for gay Paris! We're talking track & field 101, how Nikki shows up as their authentic self in every race, and what exactly IS a steeplechase? Nikki Hiltz is a nonbinary professional track and field athlete and is the f

Aug 7, 2024 • 1:11:18

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do I Find The Foundation For Me?

We've got makeup artist extraordinaire Keita Moore on the pod today, sharing everything you need to know about finding THE foundation for you! Whether you’re a makeup novice or a glam aficionado, Keita's quick tips & sage advice are not to be missed! We're diving into skin prep for the best makeup coverage, color matching, and how to sanitize that ancient palette in your rotation. Keita Moore is one of the most sought-after makeup artists in the industry with dual bases in both New

Aug 5, 2024 • 38:56

How Are Eating Disorders Embedded In Our Culture?

If you’ve ever seen a “What I Eat In A Day” video, glanced at a tabloid in the checkout lane, or even turned on the TV, you’re likely familiar with the problematic and often toxic messaging about food and our relationship with it. JVN and Emmeline Clein delve into the complexities of eating disorders, shedding light on their often misunderstood and stigmatized nature and how they’re deeply embedded in our culture. Emmeline, both in this episode and in her book Dead Weight, advocates for

Jul 31, 2024 • 59:02

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do You Bring Newsroom Prowess To Glamour Magazine?

On this week’s Pretty Curious, JVN and Samantha Barry, Editor-in-Chief of Glamour Magazine,  delve into the intersections of beauty, politics, and media - and how Samantha’s extensive newsroom background primed her for magazine leadership. They’re talking: Gen Alpha skincare, the ever evolving media landscape, and how to find County Cork, Ireland relative to the palm of your hand. Samantha Barry is the Americas Editorial Director of Glamour Magazine, where she oversees content developm

Jul 29, 2024 • 41:04

How Do Olympians Mentally Prepare?

Curious People…the Summer Olympics are finally upon us!!! As we prepare for the most major event of the season, we also get curious about how Olympians prepare. Robert Andrews joins Jonathan to talk about working with countless elite athletes– including Simone Biles–to eliminate stress in their lives so they can focus on their sport. The two go deep into the world of Sports Psychology: what goes on in the brain when you incur an injury, quieting the pressures that surround competition, and sport

Jul 24, 2024 • 56:41

PRETTY CURIOUS | Is Red Light Therapy Fierce Or Not?

Red Light Therapy is all the rage…but what exactly is it? The legendary Dr. Barbara Sturm is here to tell Jonathan ALL about it. The two go deep into the science of inflammation, the difference between Red and Blue Light Therapy, Dr. Sturm’s iconic Blood Facial, and more! Then the two talk all about what to take to build a brand that lasts based on highly-researched formulas that really work. Dr. Barbara Sturm is a German doctor, orthopedics specialist, aesthetics expert and an anti-in

Jul 22, 2024 • 36:10

Are We Any Happier in 2024? with Gretchen Rubin

Can you believe we’re already halfway through the year?? Gretchen Rubin is back with Jonathan to check in on our New Year's resolutions. We get real about how difficult it can be to find balance in our chaotic world, and the importance of finding fulfillment because after all, happy people are engaged people. We learn all about how Jonathan’s been relating to social media, Gretchen’s heated socks, and how to use our tendencies to reinvest in our goals. Plus, Gretchen shares the research

Jul 17, 2024 • 52:58

PRETTY CURIOUS | Are Y2K Trends Making A Comeback? with Fat Mascara

Jess & Jenn from Fat Mascara are here for the beauty podcasting collab of the century! We talk about the evolution of beauty related media, how they’ve seen the industry change, and all the major tips & tricks they’ve picked up from all the founders and icons they’ve interviewed throughout the years. Plus, Y2K nostalgia, chunky highlights, and the beauty counters of their childhoods. Hosts (and friends) Jessica Matlin and Jennifer Sullivan are the hosts of the incredible beauty

Jul 15, 2024 • 42:05

What's Going On With Sharks?

We are getting into all the Shark Week fun here on Getting Curious with Dr. Gavin Naylor! Jonathan and Gavin dive deep into all things sharks: Are attacks really becoming more common, or is that just our perception? Why are there only 530 species of sharks, and what makes them so resilient? What does intrauterine cannibalism mean? And Dr. Naylor tells us about how he’s able to study the marvels of evolutionary biology through his focus on sharks and what makes them so unique. Dr. Gavin

Jul 10, 2024 • 54:59

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Does Acupuncture Work? with Dr. Eileen Li

If you’re anything like us, then you have endless burning questions about acupuncture: How exactly does it work? Can it relieve my stress? Indigestion? Headaches? Chronic pain? Acne? Dr. Eileen Li joins Jonathan to answer all this…and more! She shares her approach to treating the body’s whole health with both a Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine perspective, and how acupuncture can bring out our inner beauty. Plus, are Blue Zone Diets all they’re cracked up to be? Dr. Ei

Jul 8, 2024 • 42:34

What's The Biden Administration Doing For The Environment?

White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi is here to tell us all about the major policy efforts that are making historic gains in the fight against climate change. Jonathan and Ali cover it all: from Ali’s journey to this work, to environmental justice concerns, to the many ways in which investing in these policies help strengthen local economies. Plus, how people just like you can get involved in a greener future with the American Climate Corps, which trains young people in clean

Jul 3, 2024 • 47:10

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Are My Table Manners? with Jessie & Lennie Ware

Jessie & Lennie Ware sat down with JVN for a good old chit-chat on their podcast Table Manners, and we’re bringing you some highlights from that incredible conversation, plus some of our standard Pretty Curious fare! We go deep on how Jessie puts together looks for her album covers, Lennie’s classic red lip, and Whitney Houston’s “I Look To You.” Plus, does Jessie think vocal rest is meh or MAJOR? Jessie Ware is an English singer and songwriter. She came to prominence following the

Jul 1, 2024 • 39:52

How Fun Is Alan Carr?

Jonathan and Alan recently met at Adele’s Vegas residency show and were instantly obsessed with each other! The two sit down for a truly delightful conversation about the journey of Alan’s career from working as a call center operator to becoming a UK comedy icon. The two chat about what it’s like to be a gay comedian, The Friday Night Project, and the challenges of working out new material as an established voice. Plus: Amy Weinhouse, Australian accents, and Drag Race UK! Alan Carr is

Jun 26, 2024 • 40:50

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s The Deal With Hyperpigmentation?

Desiree Verdejo took a leap of faith: she left the grind of New York corporate law and opened a boutique in Harlem, which eventually led her to found Hyper! skincare. Desiree joins Jonathan to talk all about how she made this massive pivot over time and to follow your own instincts. Plus the two go deep on hyperpigmentation for sensitive skin of all shades, ingredients and formulas, and what’s next for the brand. After leaving the world of corporate law, Desiree Verdejo moved to Harlem

Jun 24, 2024 • 38:06

Where Have All The Gay Bars Gone?

Did you know that between 2006 and 2016, 58% of bars, pubs, and nightclubs that catered to the LGBTQ community closed in London? Sociologist Amin Ghaziani joins Jonathan to explain this phenomena and how the queer community is adapting. The two dig deep into how the norms of the typical gay bar often exclude already marginalized folks in the LGTBQ community, the underground parties like Buttmitzvah and Femmetopia that have filled this void, and the experimental economic models these par

Jun 19, 2024 • 52:57

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Did You Go From Kitchen Sink to Oprah Winfrey? with Lisa Price

This week, we have Carol’s Daughter founder, Lisa Price! Lisa tells Jonathan about her decades-long journey to lasting success: from back in the early days when she made and sold products out of her kitchen at a time when there were barely any natural hair products on the shelves, all the way through being inducted into the National Museum of African-American History and Culture. Plus, being on the Oprah Winfrey show, how scent and product are inextricably linked, and an iconic vintage

Jun 17, 2024 • 34:49

Gay Republicans?

Neil J. Young is here to answer all our burning questions about the history of gay people within the Republican party! Neil and Jonathan go back to the Mattachine Society in the 1950s and the beginnings of the Log Cabin Republicans in the late 1970s when neither political party accepted homosexuality. Then the two examine how gay Republicans were instrumental in taking down Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and advancing the legalization of same-sex marriage. Plus, we touch on the current mindset of

Jun 12, 2024 • 57:24

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s It Like To Design Iconic Looks For RuPaul? with ZALDY

Did you know that the looks for Ru Paul’s Drag Race, Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball Tour, Britney Spears’ Femme Fatale Tour, Katy Perry’s Vegas Residency, and Cirque du Soleil were all created by ONE design genius? It’s true! ZALDY is the artist behind this incredible oeuvre…and our guest on Pretty Curious. ZALDY tells Jonathan all about his journey from model to designer, meeting Ru Paul in their Club Kid days, and how the industry has evolved since then. Plus, the two geek out over all thin

Jun 10, 2024 • 37:12

How Are The Asexuals Doing? with Angela Chen

Happy Pride, Curious People! We’re kicking the month off by talking with Angela Chen about the often overlooked “A” in LGBTQIA+. Angela lays down the basics of asexuality, then she and Jonathan talk more deeply about how the "Ace" perspective can offer everyone a new lens through which to think about their relationships to romance, sex, desire, and culture. Plus, compulsory sexuality and its MAJOR role in our cultural understandings of sex. Angela Chen is a journalist, editor, and auth

Jun 5, 2024 • 50:07

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Hot Is Jewelry? with Irene Neuwirth

We’re MAJOR fans of Irene Neuwirth Jewelry, known for her one-of-a-kind and incredibly gorgeous pieces! Irene tells Jonathan the story of her slow and steady journey from hobbyist at local gem shows to crafting unique pieces for major celebrities. She shares all that inspires her creative vision from her mother’s influence as a painter, to mixing and matching gems in playful ways that break traditional rules of jewelry making, and even the thought behind her individualized packaging. Pl

Jun 3, 2024 • 35:45

How Can We Be More Effective With Language?

Have you ever wondered what’s up with double negation, the history of gender neutral pronouns, or why swearing is taboo? Then get ready for this week’s guest, linguist Anne Curzan! Anne and Jonathan talk about how the English language has evolved since the 1300s and how our words are SO powerful because of their central role in our identities and communities. Plus, we talk about how to be a more generous speaker, listener, and caretaker of language. Anne Curzan is the Dean of Literatur

May 29, 2024 • 55:20

PRETTY CURIOUS | What's It Like To Run Allure Magazine? with Jessica Cruel

Allure Editor in Chief Jessica Cruel just got back from a trip to South Korea and is ready to share all the latest beauty recs from her travels with us! Jessica and Jonathan go deep on her journey to Allure, what she’s seen change in the industry, and where she thinks the future lies. Plus, who better than this Best of Beauty expert to get real with us when it comes to which products are meh and which are MAJOR? Jessica Cruel is the editor-in-chief of Allure, where she leads the develo

May 27, 2024 • 41:48

What’s the State of Misinformation? with Renée DiResta

We’re all so used to turning to our phones for information, but how exactly does it travel across the internet…and what happens if that information is wrong? Renée DiResta is the perfect expert to break it all down for us! Jonathan and Renée dig into the differences and potential dangers of misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda. From generative AI and Father Coughlin, to political polarization and being subpoenaed by Jim Jordan, we cover it all. Renée DiResta is the Research M

May 22, 2024 • 1:11:17

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Dieux We Know What Works for Our Skin? with Charlotte Palermino

If you’re as obsessed with Dieux Skin’s Forever Eye Mask as we are, then this episode is for you! Co-founder Charlotte Palermino joins Jonathan to share her unique perspective on the beauty industry. From developing brand loyalty through offering products you only need to purchase once, to how we can spot misinformation in a world overflowing with hot new trends, we go deep into how to be a discerning consumer and find the formulas that are best for your unique skin. Charlotte Palermino is a li

May 20, 2024 • 36:01

What Was The U.S. Up To From 1980-2001?

Dr. Osamah Khalil is back to tell us all about what was happening in this period of history from the 80s to the very beginning of the new millennium. From the Cold War conservatism of the Regan administration to the Camp David Summit at the end of the Clinton presidency and everyyyyything in between, Jonathan and Osamah walk through these critical few decades and trace the common threads. Plus, we’ll pick up at the beginning of the Bush administration in our upcoming Part 3 episode! Dr

May 15, 2024 • 1:02:27

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s the Deal with Psoriasis?

We’re getting personal on this episode of Pretty Curious with Jonthan’s dermatologist, Dr. Ali Shahbaz! The two walk through Jonthan’s psoriasis journey and along the way, Dr. Shahbaz answers all our questions like what are the different types of psoriasis, what are some common triggers for flare-ups, and what are the best treatment options? Plus, Dr. Shahbaz shares the foundations for skin health, fills us in on all the latest technological advances, and busts myths around the so-calle

May 13, 2024 • 45:57

How Does Hilarity For Charity Bring Light To Alzheimer's? with Seth & Lauren Rogen

Seth and Lauren Rogen are on the pod this week to talk with Jonathan all about their incredible organization Hilarity for Charity that’s on a mission to care for families impacted by Alzheimer's disease. Lauren tells the story of how her personal connection to Alzheimer’s joined forces with the pair’s careers in comedy to make a big impact. Plus, we go deep on the science of the disease, the importance of bringing levity to heartbreak, and how to keep your brain healthy. Seth Rogen is an award

May 8, 2024 • 45:51

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Can Baths Improve My Wellbeing?

Start filling the tub and light a candle! This week, we’re talking all about Pursoma’s specialty bath soaks and body treatments with founder and CEO, Shannon Vaughn. Jonathan and Shannon go deep on the importance of ritual bathing and digital detox, the process of salt harvesting, and how baths can improve our sleep. Shannon Vaughn is the founder and CEO of Pursoma, a wellness company that aims to help you live a healthier life by creating products like bath soaks and body oils, design

May 6, 2024 • 34:08

Why Does Gynecological Care Affect Us All?

Did you know that in ancient Greece, the stereotype that women were “overly emotional” came from the false idea of a “wandering womb?” Neither did we! Dr. Karen Tang joins Jonathan to go deep on the long history of stigma and shame around gynecological care, and to answer all our questions about what it even is. Plus we talk about the state of gynecological care in this election year, draw out the connection between the attacks against abortion care and trans affirming health care, and

May 1, 2024 • 48:58

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Did You Become A Master Wigologist?

Ever wonder who makes Laverne Cox’s hair look so good? It’s none other than this week’s guest, Dee TrannyBear! Dee tells Jonathan all about their incredible origin story: they started off working in German salons as a high school student and eventually came to America where they found queer community. Then Dee and Jonathan talk shop about all things wigs: which ones to buy, tips for installing, and how much you can expect to pay if you want an expert’s touch. Plus, Dee teases a MAJOR ne

Apr 29, 2024 • 36:17

Where Does Plastic Go?

Happy Earth Day, Curious People! To celebrate, we’re inviting research scientist Marcus Eriksen from 5 Gyres to the pod. Marcus tells us about his 88 day journey from California to Hawaii sailing on a raft made from 15,000 plastic bottles to research microplastics in the ocean and raise awareness about plastic pollution. Then Marcus answers all our questions like: how did plastic become so popular in the first place, why is so little of our plastic recycled, and what can we do on an ind

Apr 24, 2024 • 51:04

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s It Like To Work For Cosmo U.K.?

This week, Keeks Reid tells us all about how she followed her passion for beauty all the way Cosmopolitan U.K.! We learn all about the impact of social media on beauty journalism, the difference between micro trends and trends with staying power, and how to find your personal style. Plus, Keeks shares about her exciting next chapter with Jonathan: she’s going to cosmetology school to take her love for hair to the next level! Keeks Reid started her career in beauty journalism in 2013 as

Apr 22, 2024 • 38:23

Who Was John Hancock?

You probably learned about the Founding Fathers in school…or maybe you had a deep Hamilton phase like the rest of us, but what about the lesser known figures like John Hancock? Historian Dr. Brooke Barbier joins Jonathan to fill us in on the man behind the famous signature. From his willingness to publicly change his mind, his ability to find the middle ground, and his talent for throwing a killer party to bring all kinds of people together, Brooke illuminates the lessons we can learn f

Apr 17, 2024 • 50:30

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Can We Supercharge Our Skincare Routine?

LA Beautologist, Nayamka Roberts-Smith, joins Jonathan to go deep on skincare…literally! Nayamka brings her expertise as an award-winning esthetician to the table to teach us all about our skin and what treatments we can seek out to stay healthy and glowing. Plus, should you brush your teeth before or after you wash your face? Nayamka Roberts-Smith is an award winning esthetician, acclaimed skincare educator, and all-around fountain of knowledge on beauty culture. She’s an internationa

Apr 15, 2024 • 38:43

What Happened To Local Newspapers?

So much of our news consumption these days comes from social media and cable news, but whatever happened to local newspapers? Journalist, author, and educator Meg Heckan joins Jonathan to answer that very question. We learn about the history of newspapers, how communities are impacted when their local paper folds, and what we can do to cultivate a stronger news ecosystem that’s more reflective of our society. Plus, we dive deep into what’s at stake for our democracy when local journalis

Apr 10, 2024 • 51:52

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Is Your Makeup SO Gorgeous? with Mikayla Nogueira

This week’s guest needs NO introduction because you’ve definitely seen her all over your FYP! Mikayla Nogueira joins Jonathan for a conversation all about makeup and social media. From how she fell in love with makeup to her favorite budget-friendly products, we get ALL the tips and tricks for flawless makeup application. Plus, we finally learn what under-painting is and how we can use it to make our makeup look amazing in photos! Mikayla Nogueira is a makeup artist and one of the larg

Apr 8, 2024 • 40:33

How Did The Vietnam War Start?

The Vietnam War caused a ton of strife both domestically and internationally, but so many details were hidden from the public for a long time. Naturally, Jonathan has a lot of questions about this period of time, and historian Dr. Osamah Khalil has the answers! Join us for a deep dive on a fascinating period of American history, as we examine what was happening abroad and at home from 1945-1980. Dr. Osamah Khalil is a historian of U.S. foreign relations and chair of the international r

Apr 3, 2024 • 48:39

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Has The Beauty Industry Evolved? with Ateh Jewel

This week we’re uncovering the highs and lows of the beauty industry with someone who's been a part of it for over 20 years! Journalist and influencer Ateh Jewel joins Jonathan for a deep dive into her experience watching the field change over time. From how she made her mark, to the way increased diversity has helped open doors for the next generation, and how she harnessed all that insight to found her own groundbreaking beauty brand. Ateh Jewel is a multi award winning journalist, p

Apr 1, 2024 • 46:07

What Happens When We Get Sick?

Picture it: you’re on a crowded subway and someone sneezes. Or maybe you’re on a plane and the person next to you keeps coughing. Perhaps you shook hands with someone who didn’t wash their hands after going to the bathroom. Interaction with germs is inevitable, but why do some people get sick while others don’t? Social neuroscientist Dr. Keely A. Muscatell tells Jonathan all about what happens when we get sick and why. We go deep on how the innate and adaptive branches fight against pat

Mar 27, 2024 • 52:43

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s The Deal With Botox?

Today we’re answering all your burning questions about botox! Dermatologist Dr. Renée A. Beach joins Jonathan to talk all things cosmetic dermatology: what’s the difference between botox and fillers? What’s the best approach for your desired outcome? How should you vet a dermatologist? And most importantly…what can you do to make your fillers last as long as possible?! Dr. Beach is a Canadian dermatologist practicing both medical and cosmetic dermatology in Toronto for more than a deca

Mar 25, 2024 • 43:08

What’s Up With The Northern Lights?

Have you ever been lucky enough to see the aurora borealis in person? Jonathan’s been dying to see them for years, and after a recent trip to Alaska, they finally did! Afterwards, Jonathan sat down with Professor and Geophysicist Don Hampton to learn more about what’s happening with these lights on a molecular level: Why do they only occur in certain parts of the world? What can they tell us about the atmosphere? And what mysteries still remain about this amazing natural phenomenon? Do

Mar 20, 2024 • 54:42

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Did You Become a Drag Legend? with Sasha Colby

Hold on to your lace fronts, because the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15, Sasha Colby, is on this week’s Pretty Curious! Sasha Colby joins Jonathan to talk about her origins in pageants and all things drag: where the industry is going, her advice for up-and-coming performers and some of her favorite products. Plus, she spills the tea on her ponytail line: Sasha Colby Hair! Sasha Colby is an American drag legend and beauty pageant competitor. In 2012, she won the Miss Continental

Mar 18, 2024 • 41:54

How Do You Get Involved In Politics?

With November right around the corner, many people are expressing frustration with our current political leaders. So this week civic leader Lauren Baer tells us all about how we can all get involved in politics to create the change we want to see! Is electoral politics for me? What are all the different roles in a campaign? Where can I get started if I don’t already have a degree in politics? Lauren Baer (she/her) is a nationally-recognized civic leader who has built her career generating soc

Mar 6, 2024 • 46:13

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Are Inner And Outer Beauty Related?

This week, nutritionist and holistic wellness expert Kimberly Snyder teaches us about how taking care of ourselves on the inside impacts how we look on the outside. Kimberly walks Jonathan through simple and practical shifts we can all make to take better care of ourselves. From designing morning routines that set the tone for the rest of the day, to finding balance in how we nourish ourselves in a culture that loves extremes, we go deep into the importance of approaching beauty holisti

Mar 4, 2024 • 39:31

What Is Foraging? with Alexis Nikole Nelson (aka BlackForager)

If you’re on TikTok or Insta, you’ve probably seen Alexis Nikole Nelson aka BlackForager sharing a recipe for acorn flour, or demonstrating how to identify onion grass. We’re obsessed with her, and we NEED to know more about foraging. So on this week’s episode, we’re getting answers to the questions we’re dying to know: what can we forage based on where we live? What are dangerous plants we should avoid? And what’s the history behind America’s foraging laws? Alexis Nikole Nelson is a fo

Feb 28, 2024 • 56:41

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do You Design Oscar-Worthy Costumes?

Poor Things fans, this episode is for you! Jonathan sat down with the film’s costume designer, Holly Waddington, to learn all about her designing process and inspiration. From giant sleeves to working with Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos, we learned all about what it takes to be an Oscar-nominated costume designer! Holly Waddington is an Oscar® nominee and BAFTA winner for her work on Yorgos Lanthimos’ Poor Things. Her costume designs for film and TV also include the pilot episode of H

Feb 26, 2024 • 35:16

Is Health Care Fair?

The United States is the only high-income country that doesn’t have universal health care…AND we have some of the worst health outcomes for all groups of people. Clearly, some part of this system isn’t working, especially for folks that are already marginalized. But what’s the solution? Dr. Uché Blackstock joins Jonathan for a conversation on equity and racism in the health care industry: what’s the history behind it, who’s the most impacted, and what can we do to fix it? Dr. Uché Blac

Feb 21, 2024 • 48:24

PRETTY CURIOUS | Should I Pop My Pimples? with Dr. Pimple Popper

Don’t freak out too much…Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) is on Pretty Curious! On this episode, Dr. Lee tells Jonathan how she ended up with her very own hit TLC show, and her approach to dermatological care. We’re talking all about how to take care of our skin, common mistakes, and how to find the right dermatologist. Plus, find out the craziest thing she’s ever popped. Dr. Sandra Lee, also known as Dr. Pimple Popper, is a viral pimple-popping sensation and board-certified derm

Feb 19, 2024 • 36:08

Is Romance Dead?

Sabrina Strings is back on Getting Curious with this stunning revelation: romance is dead! But was it ever really alive? Sabrina and Jonathan celebrate Valentine’s Day with a conversation about the origins and pitfalls of romance. How do you know if you’re in a situationship with a f*ckboy? How did Playboy promote anti-romantic ideals? And what could a world where romance fails, and sexual love prevails, actually look like? Sabrina Strings, Ph.D. is Professor and North Hall Chair of Bl

Feb 14, 2024 • 47:34

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Can You Give Your Hair Color A Glow-Up?

If you’ve been wanting to color your hair, but don’t know what to expect, then you’ve come to the right place! On this week’s episode, L.A.’s go-to colorist, Liz Jung, and Jonathan talk all about hair color. How much should you expect to pay? How long will it take? And how can you prepare your hair for the transformation? Plus, find out which hair color trends Liz thinks are here to stay. Liz Jung is LA’s go-to colorist for blonde transformations. She was mentored by one of the most so

Feb 12, 2024 • 37:39

Can Marijuana Legalization Save Us All?

For the last 54 years, marijuana has been classified as a Schedule I drug: a category that carries drastic criminal penalties and also includes hard drugs like heroin. But the Biden administration has the power to change that as scientists at the FDA are now recommending it be reclassified in a much less severe category. But Jonathan wonders, would descheduling marijuana be enough to solve all of the issues caused by the War on Drugs? Drug policy activist and attorney Shaleen Title join

Feb 7, 2024 • 49:03

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Can Hot & Cold Treatments Improve Our Health?

Every celebrity on your FYP has probably posted a cold plunging video—and maybe you want to try it too! But how does cold plunging actually work, and what benefits does it really have? Dr. Jonathan Leary joins Jonathan to explain the science behind all the wellness trends that are popular these days. From cold plunging and infrared saunas to functional medicine and proper sleep habits, he answers all of our questions about holistic wellness and gives us some tips for feeling (and looking) our be

Feb 5, 2024 • 33:33

How Do You Survive A Home Invasion?

What should you do if someone breaks into your house? How can you prevent someone from stealing your identity? What’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from harm? Jonathan has all the questions, and security expert Robert Siciliano has all the answers! In this episode, we’re serving practical advice on all things safety, including how to make yourself a harder target, one easy action to prevent identity theft, and how a pen could save your life. Robert is a security

Jan 31, 2024 • 46:58

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do You Do Makeup On Queer Eye? with Senoj Byrd

Queer Eye’s head of hair and makeup department, Senoj Byrd, joins Jonathan to celebrate the release of Season 8! Jonathan and Senoj chat about the challenges of doing hair and makeup for the screen. Plus, find out what makes a look classic in Senoj’s book, and what makeup trends she thinks are “meh” or “major.” TV/Film Makeup Artist Senoj is a proud member of IATSE who is recognized for her adaptable work ethic and technique. Ranging from high glam in Reality TV to mastering clean everyday make

Jan 29, 2024 • 36:38

Why Am I So Obsessed With Video Games?

Fortnite. League of Legends. The Sims. Candy Crush. From playing with your friends as a kid to competing with a team in an esports competition, there’s no denying that video games have a huge influence in our lives and the world around us. Professor Megan Condis and gamer Cybbi Barton join a Fortnite-obsessed Jonathan for a conversation on the immense influence this $217 billion industry has on our culture. Dr. Megan Condis is an assistant professor of Communication Studies at Texas Te

Jan 24, 2024 • 48:09

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Can I Take Hotter Photos?

Ryan Rudewicz (aka @rudepolaroids) is *the* expert in capturing your inner glow on film. NYC’s hottest nightlife photographer and Jonathan go behind the lens to talk about Polaroids, the magic of physical photos, and the joy of documenting Queer community on camera. Plus, are iPhone .5 pics meh or major? Ryan Rudewicz (better known as Rude Polaroids) is a Polaroid and film photographer based in Brooklyn capturing Queer nightlife, drag, and portraits. He is the winner of the 2023 Glam A

Jan 22, 2024 • 30:02

What’s It Take To Be A Cool Mom? with Busy Philipps

She’s not like a regular mom, she’s a cool mom! This week, Busy Philipps joins Jonathan to talk all things Mean Girls and what it takes to be a cool mom on screen - and in real life. From bringing Mrs. George into 2024, parenting her own kids, and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community, Busy totally makes fetch happen! Busy Philipps is a New York Times Best-Selling author, actor, activist, and writer. She’s known for her television roles on Freaks and Geeks and Dawson's Creek. She’s als

Jan 17, 2024 • 50:20

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Can We Level Up Our Nails? with Mei Kawajiri

Mei Kawajiri (aka @nailsbymei) has actually touched Madonna’s hands…while she was doing her nails! She also happens to be the nail artist for *the host of this podcast.* Mei joins Jonathan to share the incredible story of how she moved from Tokyo to New York City and became a top celebrity nail artist. Plus, how does she create her famous 3D nail art? Do we really have to cut our cuticles? And what’s on trend for nails right now? Mei Kawajiri is the nail artist behind the most viral ma

Jan 15, 2024 • 39:27

Is White Supremacy A Covert Killer?

If you loved our episode on the women of the far right then this one’s for you! We’re returning to the world of white nationalism to uncover the connections between the growing anti-woke backlash movement and the rise of white power. Historian Kathleen Belew joins Jonathan to answer questions about the rise of Christian nationalism including: what’s the current state of white supremacy in America? How is the Charlottesville riot related to the January 6th insurrection?  And what can we do if we

Jan 10, 2024 • 44:54

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Did You Shape The Hollywood Hair Scene? with Adir Abergel

From Tina Turner to Kristin Stewart, this week’s guest has worked with practically every iconic celeb. Celebrity hairstylist Adir Abergel spills the tea to Jonathan on how he got his start, what hair trends are “in” for 2024, and what hair product he can’t leave home without. Plus, Adir and Jonathan reveal all the insider secrets for a perfect blow-dry. Adir Abergel fuses the boundaries between fashion, art and celebrity in a way that few Hollywood hairstylists have managed to do. Usin

Jan 8, 2024 • 38:28

How Can We Be Happier In 2024? with Gretchen Rubin

It’s a new year and there’s a new topic that Jonathan’s curious about! We’re talking about happiness with the expert herself, Gretchen Rubin from the Happier podcast. She answers all of our burning questions about happiness in the new year: Is focusing on our own happiness selfish? How can we use our personality type to set more achievable goals in the new year? And how can we be more playful with our resolutions? Gretchen Rubin is the author of many bestselling books, such as The Happ

Jan 3, 2024 • 50:07

What Conversations Are We Looking Back On? (ICYMI)

For our *last* episode of the year, we’re giving you a montage à la Golden Girls. Join Jonathan, as they look back on some of their favorite conversations from recent years. We’re talking about the sociosexual behavior of bonobos, the history of Germany’s anti-sodomy law, and Tammy Baldwin’s attempt to help pass the Equality Act in Congress. We’ll see you in 2024! Dr. Laura Simone Lewis is a UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellow in the Psychology department at UC Berkeley. Check out her f

Dec 27, 2023 • 59:35

How Wrong Was The Supreme Court On Abortion? (ICYMI)

2023 was a year of big decisions for the Supreme Court, including recent news that they’ll be reviewing the constitutionality of mifepristone in the coming year. So we’re heading into the archives with this episode recorded right after the Dobbs decision was leaked. Professor Jacqueline Antonovich and Jonathan trace the history of abortion care and reproductive rights across the country in this episode originally recorded in July 2022. Jacqueline Antonovich is an Assistant Professor of

Dec 20, 2023 • 1:10:34

What’s The State Of HIV Research?

December is World AIDS Month, so we’re bringing back Dr. Celeste Watkins-Hayes to learn about recent developments in HIV research. We’re also covering weight-neutral health care, a win for the LGBTQIA+ community, and a rare bird spotting in Colombia! Celeste Watkins-Hayes is the Jean E. Fairfax Collegiate Professor of Public Policy and Sociology at the University of Michigan's Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and founding director of the school's Center for Racial Justice. Dr. Wa

Dec 18, 2023 • 34:01

How Do Deep-Sea Fish Get It On?

Do you ever watch Finding Nemo and wonder about the scary-looking fish with the gnarly teeth and the light on its head? Well then you’ve come to the right place! This week, we’re talking anglerfish! Marine biologist Dr. Mackenzie Gerringer and Jonathan spill the tea on what’s going on in the deep sea. We cover everything from how big the Mariana Trench is to how the deepest-living fishes reproduce–and it's WAY weirder than you think! Mackenzie Gerringer (she/her/hers) is an Assistant Professor

Dec 13, 2023 • 49:26

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s Your Approach To Beauty? with Jenn Harper

Cheekbone Beauty came to Jenn Harper in a literal dream. Now her brand is on the shelves of Sephora Canada and on the Met Gala red carpet. Jenn tells Jonathan about her love of simplicity, how she approaches sustainability, and what Indigenous representation means to her. Plus, the Cheekbone product you need in your makeup bag ASAP. Check out our Instagram @curiouswithjvn to learn more about the products from this episode, or head to JonathanVanNess.com for the transcript. An award-wi

Dec 11, 2023 • 33:07

How Can We Achieve Financial Security? with Tori Dunlap

This week we’re taking on all of your financial questions. What the heck is a Roth IRA? How should you approach spending money? What’s a high-yield savings account and should I have one? Internationally recognized money expert Tori Dunlap joins Jonathan to answer all these questions and more to teach us how we can all save our money. Tori Dunlap is an internationally recognized money and career expert, and podcast host. After saving $100,000 at age 25, Tori quit her corporate job in marketing a

Dec 6, 2023 • 53:02

What’s The State Of Intimate Partner Violence in the U.S.? with Sonya Passi

This week on Curious Now, we’re getting an update on legislative efforts to advocate for survivors of intimate partner violence. Sonya Passi joins Jonathan to talk about her organization, FreeFrom, as well as current events regarding intimate partner violence–including the Supreme Court case United States v. Rahimi. Sonya Passi is the founder of FreeFrom, a grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to helping survivors of intimate partner violence achieve economic justice and long-te

Dec 4, 2023 • 33:44

How Do You Become A Gardener? with Mark Peacock

What kind of flower is Agnes van Rhijn from The Gilded Age? How can you start a garden when you don’t have a lot of space? Can Jonathan do an accurate Moira Rose impression? This week, Jonathan and their husband Mark dig deep on all things gardening. Mark shares his love of landscaping, his daily garden routine, and answers some listener questions. Mark Peacock has a degree in Landscape Architecture & Garden Design from University of Essex. You can follow Mark on Instagram @marklon

Nov 29, 2023 • 41:06

PRETTY CURIOUS | What’s Our Holiday Gift Guide? With Tan France

On this week’s Pretty Curious. we’re still talking all things skincare, hair care, beauty, self-care, and beyond - but we’re turning the mic to YOU, our listeners, for a super charged Q&A, PLUS the very first annual Pretty Curious Holiday Gift Guide. And no holiday party would be complete without a game or two- and we’ve got that covered with our very special guest and style icon, Tan France. To learn more about the products referenced in the episode, check out our Instagram @curiouswithjvn,

Nov 27, 2023 • 30:40

What Is Swedish Death Cleaning? with Ella Engström, Johan Svenson, and Katarina Blom

Do you ever look around at your living space and suddenly realize that you have way too much stuff? Well, you might need to take some inspo from the traditions of Swedish Death Cleaning! On this week’s Getting Curious, the three Swedish Death Cleaners from the Peacock show join Jonathan to tell us all how we can tidy up our lives and learn to confront one of the scariest things out there: death. Ella Engström is an organizer. Johan Svenson is a designer. And Katarina Blom is a psycholo

Nov 22, 2023 • 48:53

How Is Gender-Affirming Care At Risk In TN? With Chase Strangio & L.W.

Every other week on Curious Now, we cover updates on the gender-affirming care bans being put in place all over the U.S. But this week, we’re taking a deeper look at this huge issue with someone who is at the center of a case that might be taken to the Supreme Court. L.W. and ACLU lawyer Chase Strangio join Jonathan to talk about the impact gender-affirming care bans have on trans children and how they plan on fighting back. You can follow the ACLU of Tennessee on Instagram and Twitter

Nov 20, 2023 • 37:59

What’s The History Of Eyeliner? with Zahra Hankir

Kohl. Mebari. Kajal. Eyeliner. It may go by many names, but most people know exactly what this iconic makeup tool is, and how to use it to enhance their eyes. On this week’s Getting Curious, journalist Zahra Hankir takes us on a journey through thousands of years of history to learn all about eyeliner. From Queen Nerfertiti in ancient Egypt to the Wodaabe community in Chad to the drag queens on Fire Island, we’ll learn all about how people have used this amazing tool in the past, and ho

Nov 15, 2023 • 43:25

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do You Bring Botanicals To Your Brand? with Leigh Joseph

What do you get when you combine sustainably sourced botanicals with Indigenous plant science? Sḵwálwen Botanicals! Ethnobotanist and founder of Sḵwálwen, Leigh Joseph, joins Jonathan on this week’s Pretty Curious to talk all about her approach to harvesting their botanicals, what motivated her to start her brand, and how we can all become more connected to the land. To learn more about the products referenced in the episode, check out our Instagram @curiouswithjvn, or head to Jonathan

Nov 13, 2023 • 32:45

What Is Fairness In Sports? with Caster Semenya

This week’s guest has not one, but TWO Olympic gold medals. Middle-distance runner Caster Semenya joins Jonathan to discuss what fairness in athletics really looks like. From her experience undergoing public scrutiny to her favorite sport to watch on TV, we learn all about this amazing Olympian and her fight to be allowed to compete. Caster Semenya, OIB, is a South African middle-distance runner and winner of two Olympic gold medals and three World Championships in the women’s 800 mete

Nov 8, 2023 • 58:04

What’s It Like To Be Queer In England? with Travis Alabanza

Writer and performer Travis Alabanza joins Jonathan on this week’s Curious Now to talk about some of the differences between club culture in the U.S. and U.K., some current issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community, and how they hope we can all come to see gender nonconformity. Travis Alabanza is an award-winning writer, performer, and theater maker. After being the youngest recipient of the Artist-in-Residency program at Tate Galleries, Alabanza’s debut show Burgerz toured internationally

Nov 6, 2023 • 38:22

Why Do We Play With Dolls? with Freyja Hartzell

Dolls play a huge part in our childhoods. Whether it was your best friend, or it gave you the creeps, your doll probably had some role in making you who you are today. This week, Getting Curious is getting all dolled up! Freyja Hartzell joins Jonathan to talk about disability representation in dolls, why some kids harm their dolls, and what makes play so important. Plus, she shows us perhaps the creepiest doll we’ve ever seen. Freyja Hartzell teaches the history of modern design, archi

Nov 1, 2023 • 56:10

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do I Do My Makeup? with Gigi Goode

You might know this week’s Pretty Curious guest from Season 12 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race." This week, model and artist Gigi Goode joins Jonathan to solve a makeup mystery, talk all things Avalon TV, and teach us how to choose an absolutely iconic costume this Halloween. Our conversation with Gigi begins around 5 minutes into the episode. To learn more about the products referenced in the episode, check out our Instagram @curiouswithjvn, or head to JonathanVanNess.com for the episode trans

Oct 30, 2023 • 38:53

How Do Tsunamis Happen? with Dr. Tina Dura

More than half of the world’s population lives near a coastline. And where there’s a coastline, there’s the potential for a tsunami. This week, Dr. Tina Dura joins Jonathan to talk all about these geohazards, whose waves can soar to over 1000 feet tall. Learn how tsunamis form, how they’ve altered landscapes across millenia, and what to do if you’re in a hazard zone. Dr. Tina Dura, head of the Coastal Hazards Lab at Virginia Tech, specializes in subduction zone paleoseismology, which c

Oct 25, 2023 • 44:39

What’s Happened Since The Ohio Train Derailment? with Justin Garner and Emily Wright

On February 3rd, a train derailed right outside of East Palestine, Ohio. Toxic substances were released into the air, thousands of gallons of oil leaked into the ground, and the residents of the town feel they have been forgotten. This week, activists Justin Garner and Emily Wright join Jonathan to talk about what’s happened in the eight months since the disaster, and what we can all do to help. We get into our conversation with Emily and Justin around 8 minutes into the episode, so sk

Oct 23, 2023 • 44:01

What Are Golden Passports? with Professor Kristin Surak

Your passport tells a story of where you’re from—and where you’re allowed to go. But what if you wanted to rewrite that story? Professor Kristin Surak joins us to discuss the world of golden passports, where millionaires and billionaires buy citizenship to countries they’re not from—and are often not living in—in order to navigate travel perks, business opportunities, and even scandals. If you thought all passports were created equal, you’re in for a trip. Kristin Surak is Associate Professor

Oct 18, 2023 • 46:55

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Do You Paint Your Face? with Danessa Myricks

Imagine a beauty playground where every makeup product is multi-use, you’re encouraged to get creative, and everyone is welcome. You’re imagining Danessa Myricks Beauty. Danessa Myricks drops by Pretty Curious this week to share her dynamic approach to makeup, the magical ingredient that’s powering her product lines today, and her tips for achieving a creamy, long-lasting look. Our conversation with Danessa begins around 10 minutes into the episode. To learn more about the products ref

Oct 16, 2023 • 52:13

What Was Going On In The Middle Ages? with Dr. Janina Ramirez

Warrior princesses. Gender-bending Vikings. Nuns who were writing about orgasms and writing world-class music. This week, Dr. Janina Ramirez is taking us back to the 400s—and introducing us to the baddies of the Middle Ages. What did people think about abortions? Did Vikings really wear horned helmets? And why is this period anything but a dark age? Dr. Janina Ramirez is a cultural historian, broadcaster and author based at the University of Oxford. Her research began with a degree in English l

Oct 11, 2023 • 1:11:07

Could A Single Vote Save Abortion Rights? with Sister District

From reproductive rights to school curricula to traffic and infrastructure, state legislatures make decisions about our everyday lives, all across the country. And these legislators regularly win their seats by a couple hundred votes, even fewer. Sister District co-founders Lala Wu and Lyzz Schwegler join Jonathan this week to discuss what’s at stake in state legislative elections this fall, how states like Virginia are bellwethers for 2024, and why every voter needs to show up this odd

Oct 9, 2023 • 1:12:20

What’s It Like To Be A Jeopardy! Icon? with Amy Schneider

She’s a Jeopardy! champion, an advocate for trans rights and representation, and this week’s guest on the podcast. Who is Amy Schneider? Amy joins Jonathan this week to talk all about her Jeopardy! career, her latest Wikipedia wormholes, and her love of tarot. Plus, a Jeopardy! round inspired by Jonathan’s favorite topics. Amy Schneider is an American software engineer and recent Jeopardy! champion. Following an impressive forty-game winning streak, she became the most successful woman

Oct 4, 2023 • 48:15

PRETTY CURIOUS | How Are You Serving Bombshell Beauty? with Trace Lysette

Whether she’s on the basketball court or the red carpet, this week’s Pretty Curious guest knows how to turn a look. Actress, producer, and ballroom legend Trace Lysette joins Jonathan to discuss her favorite beauty products, how she takes inspiration from both 1930s Hollywood and 1990s ballroom culture, and her thoughts on the phrase “stunning.” Our conversation with Trace begins around 8 minutes into the episode. Trace Lysette is a dynamic and talented actress known for her remarkabl

Oct 2, 2023 • 1:10:05

What’s The Cultural History Of The Calorie? with Dr. Athia N. Choudhury

What’s in a calorie? So much more than what you see on a box of cereal or a restaurant menu. The story of the nutritional calorie is the story of U.S. empire, dating back to the late 1800s when government agencies used it to determine just how little they could feed people in the military, prisons, asylums, and Native boarding schools. This week, Dr. Athia N. Choudhury joins Jonathan to discuss the history and politics of the calorie, and explains why counting on this metric—and wellnes

Sep 27, 2023 • 1:14:07

How Has TikTok Changed Elections? with Annie Wu Henry

If you haven’t seen this week’s Curious Now guest on your TikTok feed, you’ve definitely seen her work. Annie Wu Henry was a breakout star of John Fetterman’s winning Senate campaign, where she crafted iconic, witty, incisive videos for Fetterman’s TikTok account—and turned likes and views into votes. We’re hearing all about her political strategy work, her take on Gen Z and millennial voters, and how she’s planning to post her way through the 2024 presidential elections. We get into our conv

Sep 25, 2023 • 1:01:22

Who Are The Women Of The Far Right? with Dr. Eviane Leidig

There’s a group of far right influencers lurking on your social media feeds. They post organic recipes, millennial mom advice, and #glowups. And they’re using this content to promote white supremacist ideas. This week, Dr. Eviane Leidig joins us to discuss who these women are and how they’re spreading hate on social media. Dr. Eviane Leidig is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie postdoctoral fellow at Tilburg University. Her research specializes in the global far-right, gender, and online radical

Sep 20, 2023 • 1:07:27

What Is Beauty Beyond The Binary? with David Yi | Pretty Curious

Welcome to Pretty Curious, a new series where every other Monday, we’ll be talking all things beauty—skincare, haircare, self-care, and beyond. For our premiere episode, we’ve invited back Getting Curious guest David Yi to discuss their GRWM routine, their K-Beauty faves, and how they’re making skincare more inclusive with their brand Good Light. We get into our interview 8 minutes and 30 seconds into the episode, after some stunning product reviews from Jonathan, so skip to then if you simpl

Sep 18, 2023 • 53:41

How Can I Be A Good Plant Parent? with Christopher Griffin aka Plant Kween

Gather your plant fam and tell all the green gurls—there’s royalty on the podcast this week! Christopher Griffin aka THE Plant Kween joins Jonathan to discuss the joys of indoor gardening, from finding a plant that fits your lifestyle to tending to root rot. Plus, a casting session for Divas Live: Green Gurls edition! Christopher Griffin, also known as Plant Kween, is a Brooklyn-based educator, author of YOU GROW, GURL! Plant Kween’s Lush Guide to Growing your Garden, and gardener with

Sep 13, 2023 • 1:02:37

How Can We Support Intersex Rights? with Alicia Roth Weigel

It’s a new week—and we’re debuting a new series! Welcome to Curious Now, where every other Monday, we’ll be covering topical issues like elections, climate change, LGBTQIA+ rights, and beyond. For our premiere episode, we’re honored to be back in conversation with Alicia Roth Weigel, a beloved Getting Curious guest who is advocating for intersex rights. We discuss how recent anti-trans legislation also affects intersex people, and what it looks like to protect the “I” in LGBTQIA+. We g

Sep 11, 2023 • 1:02:12

What’s The History Of Pockets? with Dr. Hannah Carlson

You know the feeling when you try on a dress and realize—it has pockets? Those pockets were more than 500 years in the making! Dr. Hannah Carlson joins us this week to discuss why pockets are still not a staple for womenswear, and how people throughout history—from Queen Elizabeth I to suffragettes to a first grader in Arkansas—have taken up pockets as a political cause. Hannah Carlson teaches dress history and material culture at the Rhode Island School of Design. After training as a

Sep 6, 2023 • 1:00:25

What’s Happening With The Supreme Court? with Strict Scrutiny

What’s better than one constitutional law expert? THREE! This spring we had the honor of speaking with Professor Melissa Murray about the Supreme Court's recent term. Now she’s back, with her brilliant Strict Scrutiny co-hosts, Professors Leah Litman and Kate Shaw. They join Jonathan to discuss WTF is going on with the Supreme Court these days—from Clarence Thomas’ luxury vacations to what the nation's highest court has in store for us this fall. Plus, an epic round of judicial-themed F

Aug 30, 2023 • 1:09:25

Are Killer Whales Misunderstood? with Dr. Deborah Giles

Southern Resident killer whales are a lot like us. They have family meals, chat in different dialects, and sleep side by side. They even engage in an activity called sword fighting—which is exactly what it sounds like. One major difference? There are only 75 of these orcas alive today. This week, we’re learning all about this remarkable endangered population, what they're really up to when they ram into boats, and what it’ll take to protect them. Dr. Deborah Giles is one of the world’s

Aug 23, 2023 • 1:19:34

How Cool Are Caves? with Professor Kathleen R. Johnson

Getting Curious is going spelunking! Caves are full of evidence about our Earth’s past: they can tell us about monsoons in Laos and sea surface temperatures in Mexico over tens of thousands of years ago. They can also help predict our climate future. This week, Professor Kathleen R. Johnson takes us through the incredible world of caves and shares what it’s like to scale 200-foot ladders, kayak all day in the dark, and encounter pythons, big ass spiders, and other creatures along the wa

Aug 16, 2023 • 1:09:44

What’s The Science Of Sleep? with Dr. Gina Poe

We spend one third of our lives sleeping. But WTF is going on during those hours?! This week, Dr. Gina Poe gives us an A to Zzzz crash course in all things sleep. Dreams, memory, narcolepsy, naps, sleep demons, traveling across time zones, playing video games before bed, how substances like caffeine and alcohol affect our rest—and beyond! Gina Poe is a neuroscientist at UCLA who has worked on the functions of sleep for over 30 years with an independent research laboratory funded by the National

Aug 9, 2023 • 1:18:56

Who Were History’s Queer Seamen? with Dr. Seth LeJacq

Sea daddies! Sea queens! Land hoes! This week, we’re getting wet and wild with Dr. Seth LeJacq to learn what life was like for queer sailors in the British navy from the 15th century to the 19th century. How did these sailors express their gender and sexuality? What did they risk—legally and socially—when they pursued queer relationships? And were their ship hammocks really sturdy enough for a night of deep sea “exploration”? Dr. Seth Stein LeJacq is a historian specializing in the his

Aug 2, 2023 • 1:11:09

Who Are Hollywood’s Paparazzi? with Dr. Vanessa Díaz

Paris. Lindsay. Kim. We know the celebs in paparazzi photos, but what about the people behind the cameras? This week, Professor Vanessa Díaz takes us inside the world of Hollywood's paparazzi—who are predominantly Latine men, many undocumented—and shares what this profession captures about power, politics, and pop culture in America. Vanessa Díaz, Associate Professor of Chicana/o and Latina/o Studies at Loyola Marymount University, is a multimedia ethnographer and journalist whose work focuse

Jul 26, 2023 • 1:09:29

Are Parasites Out To Get Us? with Dr. Sebastian Lourido

Parasites are everywhere: in our bodies, in our water, even in our cats’ litter boxes. Are they agents of chaos—or just misunderstood? This week, Dr. Sebastian Lourido joins Jonathan to discuss the epic world of parasites, from pinworms to toxoplasma gondii to, yes, humans. Parasites! They’re everything, everywhere, all at once. Dr. Sebastian Lourido is an Associate Professor of Biology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a member of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical

Jul 19, 2023 • 1:23:46

ICYMI: How Can We Ease Eco-Anxiety? with Dekila Chungyalpa

Last week, Earth hit record-high temperatures—three times. We’re feeling the heat of climate change, literally, and it’s f*cking scary. To help us handle this moment, we’re re-releasing an episode from our archives, with Dekila Chungyalpa. She joins Jonathan to discuss how she confronts climate change disinterest and skepticism, and why she’s bringing the sacred back into science. Dekila Chungyalpa is the founder and director of the Loka Initiative, a capacity building and outreach platform at

Jul 12, 2023 • 1:20:22

How Do Cops Get Away With Robbery? (ICYMI) with Professor Saleema Snow

Imagine a situation where the cops can take your car, your house, and your cash. You could be waiting years to get your possessions back, without an attorney to help you. And the police can ultimately keep or sell your belongings—for profit. How’d they get away with it? Civil asset forfeiture. This Fourth of July week, we’re revisiting an episode with Professor Saleema Snow all about this damaging practice. A lot has changed since we first aired this episode in 2020 (including our audi

Jul 5, 2023 • 1:09:30

How Does The Universe Get It On? with Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein

Is life one big cosmic orgy? To wrap up our Pride Beyond Borders series, we’re going big… with an episode all about our universe! Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein joins Jonathan to discuss why spacetime isn’t straight, what quantum spin can teach us about gender expression, and why the key to understanding the cosmos may just be (wait for it) the world’s biggest dental dam. Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein is an Associate Professor of Physics and Astronomy and Core Faculty in Women’s and Gende

Jun 28, 2023 • 1:18:54

What’s It Like To Be Gay In China? with Dr. Travis S. K. Kong

What do 90 young, gay men in mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong have in common? They’ve all spent years sharing their stories with this week’s guest: Dr. Travis S. K. Kong. He joins Jonathan as part of our Pride Beyond Borders series to discuss what it’s like to be queer in each of these places—and share his interviewees’ coming out stories, their experiences with sex and dating, and their senses of intergenerational queer community. Travis S. K. Kong is Associate Professor of Socio

Jun 21, 2023 • 1:13:30

What's Haitian Vodou? (Part Two) with Professor Eziaku Nwokocha

What’s it like to enter a religious or spiritual space as a queer person? In Haitian Vodou, the divinities are ready to accept LGBTQIA+ practitioners—and are arguably queer themselves. In part two of our Pride Beyond Borders episode about this African diasporic religion, Professor Eziaku Nwokocha takes us into one of Manbo Maude’s temples to better understand this spiritual practice, and how its practitioners navigate questions of race, gender, and sexuality. Curious for more?  Check

Jun 15, 2023 • 59:42

Is Queerness Divine? (Part One) with Professor Eziaku Nwokocha

A spiritual practice that has a divinity dedicated to the protection of lesbians?! Tell us more! This week, for our Pride Beyond Borders series, we’re exploring the world of Haitian Vodou in a special two-part episode. In this first half, Professor Eziaku Nwokocha introduces us to this African diasporic religion, and Haitian history. In part two, out tomorrow, we’ll step into the world of Manbo Maude’s temples in Haiti and the US to learn about Haitian Vodou rituals and fashions, and what this p

Jun 14, 2023 • 44:24

What Are The Global Politics Of Drag? with Professor Kareem Khubchandani

This June, we’re celebrating Pride Beyond Borders! And to kick off our series, we’re exploring global drag culture with Professor Kareem Khubchandani aka Dr. LaWhore Vagistan. We’re learning how drag artists around the world stage political dialogues with their audiences, how queer nightlife can connect diasporic communities, and how this art form can be used to challenge—rather than reinforce—the legacies of colonialism and white supremacy. The world of drag is so much bigger than the

Jun 7, 2023 • 1:04:30

How Many Hard Rights Can One Supreme Court Take? with Professor Melissa Murray

In the coming weeks, the Supreme Court of the United States will hand down decisions that could have major implications for LGBTQIA+ rights, racial justice, tribal sovereignty, and beyond. Melissa Murray and Jonathan discuss what’s on the docket, why the Supreme Court seems more powerful (and conservative) than ever, and how we can get through this hot mess SCOTUS summer.Melissa Murray is a Professor of Law at NYU School of Law, where she teaches constitutional law, family law, criminal law, and

May 31, 2023 • 1:09:53

How Many Hard Rights Can One Supreme Court Take? with Professor Melissa Murray

In the coming weeks, the Supreme Court of the United States will hand down decisions that could have major implications for LGBTQIA+ rights, racial justice, tribal sovereignty, and beyond. Melissa Murray and Jonathan discuss what’s on the docket, why the Supreme Court seems more powerful (and conservative) than ever, and how we can get through this hot mess SCOTUS summer. Melissa Murray is a Professor of Law at NYU School of Law, where she teaches constitutional law, family law, crimin

May 31, 2023 • 1:15:23

What Makes Gems So Precious? with Dr. Gabriela Farfan

We’re dripping in jewels this week on Getting Curious! What does it mean for a diamond to be “hard”? Are lab-grown gems made to perfection? What’s the difference between rubies and pink sapphires? Dr. Gabriela Farfan joins Jonathan to discuss the science and art behind the dazzling, multifaceted world of gems and minerals. Dr. Gabriela Farfan is the Coralyn Whitney Curator of Gems and Minerals at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. She began collecting minerals at a young age and

May 24, 2023 • 1:15:26

What Makes Gems So Precious? with Dr. Gabriela Farfan

We’re dripping in jewels this week on Getting Curious! What does it mean for a diamond to be “hard”? Are lab-grown gems made to perfection? What’s the difference between rubies and pink sapphires? Dr. Gabriela Farfan joins Jonathan to discuss the science and art behind the dazzling, multifaceted world of gems and minerals. Dr. Gabriela Farfan is the Coralyn Whitney Curator of Gems and Minerals at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. She began collecting minerals at a young age

May 24, 2023 • 1:20:56

How Did New Orleans Become New Orleans? (Part Two) with Dr. Kathryn Olivarius

New Orleans was one of America’s most important cities in the early 1800s. It was also one of the most deadly. This week, to mark the new season of Queer Eye, we’re exploring New Orleans history with Dr. Kathryn Olivarius in a special two-part episode. Today, we’re learning about yellow fever’s grip on the city—and what this illness revealed about power and politics in New Orleans.Haven’t listened to part one yet? Check it out here to learn more about New Orleans history.A note from the team: th

May 18, 2023 • 53:36

How Did New Orleans Become New Orleans? (Part Two) with Dr. Kathryn Olivarius

New Orleans was one of America’s most important cities in the early 1800s. It was also one of the most deadly. This week, to mark the new season of Queer Eye, we’re exploring New Orleans history with Dr. Kathryn Olivarius in a special two-part episode. Today, we’re learning about yellow fever’s grip on the city—and what this illness revealed about power and politics in New Orleans. Haven’t listened to part one yet? Check it out here to learn more about New Orleans history. A note from

May 18, 2023 • 59:06

How Did New Orleans Become New Orleans? (Part One) with Dr. Kathryn Olivarius

New Orleans is a city in a swamp—a city, some argue, that should have never been built. So how did it become one of America’s most important sites in the 1800s, and a critical battleground in the American Civil War? This week, to mark the new season of Queer Eye, we’re exploring New Orleans history with Dr. Kathryn Olivarius in a special two-part episode. Today, we’re breaking down the basics on antebellum New Orleans. Tomorrow, we’ll learn all about New Orleans’ rampant history of yell

May 17, 2023 • 42:00

Why Do We Gossip? with Dr. Meltem Yucel

You didn’t hear it from us, but this week’s episode is so juicy that you’ll want to tell everyone about it. Dr. Meltem Yucel joins Jonathan to dish on gossip: why it’s irresistible, what it reveals about our moral and social codes, and how we can use it to our benefit. Come for the drama, stay for the drama. (Are we the drama?)Dr. Meltem Yucel is a Postdoctoral Associate at Duke University’s Department of Psychology and Neuroscience. She researches the development of social cognition and moralit

May 10, 2023 • 54:28

How Do Great Apes Go Wild? with Dr. Laura Simone Lewis

Chimpanzees and bonobos know how to live it up. They hang out with their friends, they take self-care breaks, they eat fresh fruit, and when it’s raining they fashion umbrellas out of leaves. Dr. Laura Simone Lewis is back on the show this week to tell us all about the social lives of these dynamic individuals, who happen to share 98% of our DNA. From their favorite juice flavors to their equivalent of Netflix and chill—this episode’s got it all.   Missed Dr. Lewis’s first episode on t

May 3, 2023 • 1:20:03

How F$^*#d Up Is Fatphobia? (ICYMI) with Dr. Sabrina Strings

What do Enlightenment-era paintings, 19th-century American fashion magazines, and Sir Mix-A-Lot’s “Baby Got Back” have in common? They’re all examples of what fatphobia has to do with race, class, and gender discrimination. This week, we’re re-releasing one of our favorite episodes from the archives, with Dr. Sabrina Strings. Learn all about the origins of anti-fat bias, and how it persists today. Listened to this one last year? We promise—it’s worth revisiting! Sabrina Strings, Ph.D. i

Apr 26, 2023 • 59:53

Why Is The Titanic So Iconic? with Dr. Meaghan Walker

The RMS Titanic sank 111 years ago this week. It may have been on its maiden voyage, but this trip was the culmination of more than 200 years of maritime travel and innovation. This week, Dr. Meaghan Walker joins us to explore British maritime history in the lead-up to this historic event. And just like an 18th century ship would have zig-zagged towards its destination, this episode is hitting all the angles: we’re talking kidnappings, steerage, slop clothes (the original fast fashion!)

Apr 19, 2023 • 1:18:27

Where Did All The Malls Go? with Alexandra Lange

In the late 1990s, American malls were the place to be. Families from around the world vacationed at the Mall of America. Teens flocked to Britney Spears’ Hair Zone Mall Tour. A nine-year-old Jonathan basked in the fine fragrance mists of Juniper Breeze. Today, there are only around 700 indoor malls in the US, and more are in the midst of shuttering. What happened to these institutions? This week, Alexandra Lange joins Jonathan to discuss the rise, fall, and potential resurrection of th

Apr 12, 2023 • 1:03:22

How Are Iranians Making History? (Part Two) with The Iranian Diaspora Collective

A note from team Getting Curious: This episode contains descriptions of violence that are at times graphic.   Women in Iran aren’t allowed to dance, sing, or show their hair in public. But it wasn’t always this way in the country. In part two of our conversation with Moj Mahdara and Nicolette Mason of the Iranian Diaspora Collective, we’re exploring the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran—and considering what a free, secular democracy, a new constitution, and an end to theocracy co

Apr 6, 2023 • 54:09

How Are Iranians Making History? (Part One) with The Iranian Diaspora Collective

A note from team Getting Curious: This episode contains descriptions of violence that are at times graphic.   If you haven’t heard about the women-led revolution happening in Iran, or you thought things had quieted down, that’s by design. The Islamic Republic of Iran has banned women from dancing, singing, and showing their hair in public. And they’ve restricted Internet access for people across the country. Still, taking these risks—and showing the world—is worth it to Iranians who wa

Apr 5, 2023 • 38:17

What’s It Like To Be Young And Queer In America? with Queer Youth Assemble

Today is March 31, 2023. It’s International Transgender Day of Visibility. And Queer Youth Assemble has organized the March For Queer & Trans Youth Autonomy. It’s set to be one of the largest queer and trans youth marches in history, with events across all 50 states and Washington, DC. We had the honor of speaking with three of the group’s leaders—Alia Cusolito, Esmée Silverman, and Faith Cardillo—about what they have planned for TDOV, how they’re experiencing this moment, and what

Mar 31, 2023 • 1:01:57

Whose Land Is This Land? with Dr. Elizabeth Rule

This week, we’re touring Washington, DC, to learn how the nation’s capital is a Native capital—with returning guest Dr. Elizabeth Rule! She and Jonathan explore the city’s significance for the 574 tribal nations in the US today and spotlight Indigenous art, architecture, and activism. Put on your walking shoes and join us for a journey that’ll change how you see the city, and the United States. Elizabeth Rule, PhD (enrolled citizen, Chickasaw Nation) is an Assistant Professor of Critic

Mar 29, 2023 • 1:13:09

How Have You Changed Reality TV As We Know It? with Fenton Bailey

This week, we’re celebrating the small screen with a TV legend: World of Wonder’s Fenton Bailey! Fenton is one of the creative forces behind RuPaul’s Drag Race and other groundbreaking TV shows and films.    Fenton and Jonathan discuss how infomercials, public access stations, televangelist sermons, and unscripted TV have shaped our reality. Plus, hear all about Fenton’s decades-long creative partnership with RuPaul; his work with cultural icons like Britney Spears, Tammy Faye, and Mon

Mar 22, 2023 • 1:03:22

How Smart Is AI? (Part Two) with Meredith Broussard

We’re back with the second half of our special two-part episode about algorithms and artificial intelligence, featuring returning guest Meredith Broussard. Yesterday, we got the T on ChatGPT, and learned why we can’t trust algorithms to be fair or objective. Today, Jonathan and Meredith get personal about their encounters with algorithms, and consider what an equitable tech industry could look like. Plus, deepfakes, TikTok, the Supreme Court, and Jonathan’s take on M3GAN!   Meredith Bro

Mar 16, 2023 • 59:39

How Smart Is AI? (Part One) with Meredith Broussard

Every time you interact with a targeted advertisement, use a drop-down menu, or scroll through TikTok, you’re engaging with an algorithm. And these algorithms are anything but objective. This week, Meredith Broussard returns to the show for a special two-part episode about algorithms and artificial intelligence—and how they shape our daily lives. In part one, we’re learning all about chatbots like ChatGPT, the origins of algorithmic bias, and WTF Francis Galton has to do with all of th

Mar 15, 2023 • 39:39

What’s Happening In East Palestine? with River Valley Organizing

When a train carrying hazardous materials derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, just over a month ago, the team at River Valley Organizing sprang into action. River Valley Organizing is a multi-racial, multicultural working class organization that radically builds community throughout the Ohio River Valley—and they’ve been calling attention to the possibility of a train derailment like this for years. Since this catastrophic incident, they’ve been advocating for residents’ health and safety

Mar 10, 2023 • 50:41

What Happened To Separation Of Church And State? with Dr. Lauren Turek

A pastor, a president, and a foreign political leader step into a National Prayer Breakfast. What happens next? A whole lot of mingling between church and state. This week, Dr. Lauren Turek joins Jonathan to explore how evangelicals have influenced American politics—domestically and abroad—over the last half century. It’s a story of televangelism, missionary trips, and politicking of biblical proportions. Lauren Turek is an associate professor of history at Trinity University in San Ant

Mar 8, 2023 • 1:01:48

Who Wins When Everyone Plays? with Verity Smith

Sports are about so much more than competition. Through athletics we learn life skills, we move authentically, and we find community. This week, Verity Smith joins Jonathan to discuss the importance of trans inclusion in sports, his personal experiences on the rugby pitch, and how we can stay resilient in this critical moment for LGBTQIA+ rights.   Verity Smith (he/him) is the Mermaids’ Trans Inclusion in Sports manager. Verity is a gay trans man and has a disability. He played elite w

Mar 1, 2023 • 56:12

Who Are The Fab Five Of The Great Ape Family? with Dr. Laura Simone Lewis

Gorillas. Orangutans. Bonobos. Chimpanzees. Humans. Can you name a more iconic Fab Five? This week, Dr. Laura Simone Lewis joins Jonathan for an episode all about our beautiful primate family tree! Listen in to learn how we’re related, what makes each species unique, and why we need to step up conservation efforts for our closest living relatives on the planet.   Dr. Laura Simone Lewis is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of California, Berkeley, and earned her PhD from Harvard i

Feb 22, 2023 • 55:49

How Does Dust Impact Earth’s Climate? with Dr. Sarah Aarons

Dust isn’t just something that accumulates between our couch cushions. Dust is ALL OVER Earth—there are 20 trillion grams of it!—and it plays a critical role in weather events, climate change, and how we understand Earth. This week, Dr. Sarah Aarons joins Jonathan to discuss her research on mineral dust, and her research trips to Antarctica. Plus, Jonathan asks hard-hitting questions, like: Is household dust really just dead skin cells? Does flushing your toilet make an aerosol mess? An

Feb 15, 2023 • 1:01:27

What’s The Steamy History Of Valentine’s Day? with Dr. Sally Holloway

Roses are red, violets are blue, we have a Valentine’s Day episode for you! This week on Getting Curious, we’re learning all about the history of Valentine’s Day, with returning guest Dr. Sally Holloway. Was the holiday always about love and romance? When did roses and chocolates become go-to gifts? And what would people living in Georgian England think of celebrations like Galentine’s Day?This episode is a perfect match with Dr. Holloway’s first conversation with Jonathan, all about love and co

Feb 8, 2023 • 36:24

Why Are We So Obsessed With Dogs? with Dr. maythe han

Dogs. We snuggle up with them on the couch. We pamper them with treats and toys and songs. We even give them prime placement on our dating profiles! But how—and why—did we become BFFs with canines? And what does our love for dogs say about us? This week, anthrozoologist Dr. maythe han and her dog Frank join Jonathan to explore this special bond between humans and dogs.   maythe han is an anthrozoologist of more-than-human kinship with dogs. Addressing the question ‘how can we live a go

Feb 1, 2023 • 1:08:54

What Can Queer Arab American History Teach Us? with Dr. Charlotte Karem Albrecht

Starting in the late 1800s, a group of Syrian immigrants settled in America. Many of them took up peddling as a career. When American newspapers described these peddlers, it was often in derogatory ways—and through terms of queerness. This week, Dr. Charlotte Karem Albrecht joins Jonathan to explore this moment in Arab American history, how it's been remembered, and what it reveals about “the sexual, racial, and gender machinery of American society.”   A note from Team JVN: In this epis

Jan 25, 2023 • 59:38

Can You Even Believe It’s Our 300th Episode? with Jonathan Van Ness

If you’d told Jonathan seven years ago that they’d be celebrating 300 episodes of Getting Curious this week, they would have passed out on the salon floor. You’d be visiting from the future, after all! We couldn’t have made it to 300 episodes without you, our listeners—so to celebrate this milestone, Jonathan’s answering your voicemails. Listen in for their takes on style, confidence, navigating the entertainment industry, and how we make the show each week. Make sure to grab some tissu

Jan 18, 2023 • 53:12

Are Plant-Based Diets For Everyone? with Dr. Aviaja Lyberth Hauptmann

We all need to eat. And we know that the choices we make with food are at once deeply personal and informed by systemic factors. As part of our ongoing exploration into global foodways, Dr. Aviaja Lyberth Hauptmann joins Jonathan to discuss the history, science, and culture of the animal-sourced Inuit diet. Listen in to learn more about Inuit fermented foods, how colonization has shaped what’s on shelves in Nuuk, and why you might want to pass on any papaya for sale in the Arctic.    O

Jan 11, 2023 • 1:05:30

What’s The Sordid History Of U.S. Trash Collection? with Professors Patricia Strach and Kathleen S. Sullivan

New year, Gilded Age drama! Today we might think of municipal trash collection as a mundane activity. But in the late 1800s, trash collection in the United States was the site of dirty politics, public health debates, and a whole lot of mess. Professors Patricia Strach and Kathleen S. Sullivan join Jonathan to discuss how we went from 16-foot-tall trash piles in the streets to our modern system of trash pick-ups. And we're getting into all the unsavory details...   Want to (dumpster) di

Jan 4, 2023 • 1:01:14

Do Beauty Standards Need A Glow Up? (ICYMI) with David Yi

As we wind down for the year, we’re re-releasing one more essential beauty episode from the Getting Curious archives! Jonathan and David Yi celebrate the history of gender-inclusive beauty, and spotlight beauty influencers across millennia—like Neanderthals who used highlighters, Korean warriors who invented three-in-one sticks, and ancient Egyptians who developed anti-aging creams.   David Yi is the co-founder of the gender-inclusive beauty brand good light, and the CEO and co-founder of Ver

Dec 28, 2022 • 44:41

Hair Variation, What’s Her Story? (ICYMI) with Dr. Tina Lasisi

This holiday break, we’re re-releasing two gorgeous beauty episodes from the Getting Curious archives! First up, join Dr. Tina Lasisi—a biological anthropologist studying human hair—and Jonathan as they explore the evolutionary history of hair, measuring hair variation, and the twists and turns of Jonathan’s hair school textbook. Dr. Tina Lasisi is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantitative and Computational Biology at the University of Southern California, and incoming Assistant Profess

Dec 21, 2022 • 1:18:11

How Stunning Are Our Listeners? with Jonathan Van Ness

For our last new episode of the year, we’re turning the mic on the Getting Curious community. Jonathan is answering your questions about all things hair—including dry shampoo, hair loss, highlights, and staying sleek while getting sweaty. And one thing is clear: curiosity looks good on you!   We’ll be re-releasing two of our favorite beauty episodes from the Getting Curious archives to round out the year. And we’ll be featuring more of your questions about beauty and beyond in just a fe

Dec 14, 2022 • 47:54

What’s The Cold, Hard Truth About Ice In Hawaiʻi? with Hiʻilei Julia Kawehipuaakahaopulani Hobart

In the mid-1800s, Americans shipped ice to Hawaiʻi in the hopes that there would be a market for it. There wasn’t. So how did ice—in the form of cocktails, ice cream, shave ice, and beyond—become lodged in Hawaiʻi’s foodscape? This week, Professor Hiʻilei Julia Kawehipuaakahaopulani Hobart joins Jonathan to discuss the social history of ice and refrigeration in Hawaiʻi—and what this history reveals about colonial relationships to the tropics.  Hiʻilei Julia Kawehipuaakahaopulani Hobart

Dec 7, 2022 • 1:02:10

Does Groundwater Go With The Flow? with Dr. Marsha K. Allen

There’s a world of curiosity just below street level, and this week, we’re taking the plunge with a truly glam academic! Dr. Marsha K. Allen joins Jonathan to discuss fractured rock aquifers, sinkholes, and her groundbreaking work on water sustainability in Tobago. Dr. Marsha K. Allen is a geologist with a research background in Cosmochemistry (meteorites) and Hydrogeology. Her current research focuses on the fractured rock aquifer of one of her home islands, Tobago. She is currently ne

Nov 30, 2022 • 58:32

How Can We Show Up For Mutual Aid? (ICYMI) with Dean Spade

This holiday season, we’re inviting Getting Curious listeners to reflect on what it means to be in community. In that spirit, we’re re-releasing a conversation about mutual aid with the writer and activist Dean Spade. Mutual aid is all about meeting people’s survival needs at a local level, and building sustained, decentralized, compassionate support networks. We encourage you to take a listen to Dean and Jonathan’s conversation, then take some time to learn about—and get involved in—mu

Nov 23, 2022 • 54:14

Can You Say Cheese? with Carlos Yescas and Lee Hennessy

This week we’re learning all about the culture of cheese, and literal cheese cultures, with Carlos Yescas and Lee Hennessy. They join Jonathan to discuss how cheese is made, the politics and economics of the global cheese industry, and why we should enjoy Swiss cheese while we have it. It’s the episode equivalent of a gorgeous charcuterie board!   Carlos Yescas is a cheese scholar, advocate, distributor, and researcher. He documents cheese traditions and stories and is currently resear

Nov 16, 2022 • 1:09:46

Why Are Toxic Products (Still) On Our Shelves? with Dr. Norah MacKendrick

If you take a shower and use basic cosmetics, you could be exposed to more than 100 chemicals. Add in your furnishings and food, and we’re talking several hundred chemicals, some of them bioaccumulative—and dangerous. But if we know that certain consumer goods have toxics in them, how did they end up on shelves? And why are they still for sale? This week, Dr. Norah MacKendrick joins Jonathan to break down the history and politics of daily chemical exposure, and what needs to change so t

Nov 9, 2022 • 1:06:45

How Did You Become An All-Around Legend? with Jordan Chiles

This week’s episode is a gymnastics EVENT! Olympic silver medalist Jordan Chiles joins Jonathan to discuss how she’s taking the sport to new heights at both the elite and collegiate levels, why she doesn’t take any wins for granted, and who’s on her playlist heading into competition days. Whether you’re a gymnastics newbie or an elite level fan like Jonathan, this one’s a winner. One note is that we recorded this episode just before Jordan qualified for the 2022 World Gymnastics Championships. M

Nov 2, 2022 • 47:29

What’s At The Heart Of Black Disability Politics? with Professor Sami Schalk

In 1977 more than 100 disabled activists in San Francisco took over a federal building for 25 days. It was the longest non-violent occupation of a federal building in United States history. As they advocated for their rights, they found an ally in the Black Panther Party, which understood that disability rights were connected with their own anti-capitalist, anti-imperialist racial justice work. This week, Professor Sami Schalk joins Jonathan to discuss how Black cultural workers have ap

Oct 26, 2022 • 1:19:58

How Do Cults Fashion Themselves? with Sarah C. Byrd

Let’s say you pass a group of people dressed identically. Are they a) following a trend, b) wearing uniforms, or c)  in a cult? And who’s to say the answer can’t be all of the above? This week, we’re diving fabric first into the world of American cults, communes, and alternative communities with fashion historian and archivist Sarah C. Byrd. Listen in as she and Jonathan discuss how these groups have historically expressed themselves through style—and why the definition of “cult fashion

Oct 19, 2022 • 1:08:47

How Diverse Was The Ancient Mediterranean? with Professors Sarah Derbew and Nandini Pandey

This week, we’re traveling back to one of our favorite sites for curiosity: the ancient Mediterranean. Professors Sarah Derbew and Nandini Pandey join Jonathan to discuss how people across the region experienced cultural diversity; how they related to—and set themselves apart from—their neighbors; and what it looks like to approach the ancient past on its own terms rather than filtered through contemporary assumptions.   Sarah Derbew is an assistant professor of Classics at Stanford Uni

Oct 12, 2022 • 1:12:20

What’s In A Scent? with Michelle Pfeiffer

Treat this episode like a spritz of your favorite fragrance. Let the beauty talk consume you. Linger on the film industry stories. Stay for the base notes of Jonathan in disbelief that our guest is literally Michelle Pfeiffer. Michelle Pfeiffer joins Jonathan to discuss the science of scent, the trade secrets harming people’s health, and how she’s modeling transparency with her company Henry Rose.    Need more Jonathan and Michelle in your life? Check out their Instagram Live from earli

Oct 5, 2022 • 37:38

Who Does America’s “Child Welfare System” Serve? with Professor Dorothy Roberts

Each year, more than 250,000 children in America are removed from their families by judicial means—and more than 3.5 million children are investigated by child welfare agencies. Most of these children are Black, Indigenous, queer, disabled, and / or otherwise marginalized. And much of the tens of billions of dollars allotted each year to so-called “child welfare” is spent on separating families. This week’s guest Dorothy Roberts joins Jonathan to discuss how this system operates; who it most har

Sep 28, 2022 • 1:14:58

What’s It Like To Style A More Inclusive Fashion World? with Edward Enninful, OBE

If Getting Curious were a magazine, this week’s episode would be the “September Issue,” and this week’s guest would be the cover star of our dreams. British Vogue’s Editor-in-Chief Edward Enninful, OBE, joins Jonathan to discuss how he’s transformed your favorite magazines over the last three decades; how he’s leading the way for a more diverse, welcoming fashion world; and what it was like to get vulnerable for his new memoir A Visible Man.   Edward Enninful is Editor-in-Chief of British Vogu

Sep 21, 2022 • 50:35

How Did Queer People Experience Nazi Germany? with Dr. W. Jake Newsome

In 1871, Germany adopted an anti-sodomy statute called Paragraph 175. Sixty years later, the Nazis broadened that law—and it quickly became the basis for persecuting Germany’s queer population. When World War II ended, Paragraph 175 remained on the books. Dr. W. Jake Newsome joins Jonathan to discuss queer Germans’ experiences of Nazi rule and its aftermaths, the history and legacy of the pink triangle, and how this pivotal moment in queer history bears on today.   CW: This episode refe

Sep 14, 2022 • 1:23:39

Can Asteroids Rock Our World? with Christina Hernández and Terik Daly

It's a beautiful night—the sky is clear, the stars are twinkling. You see a shooting star! Or is it a comet! Maybe a meteor? Whatever it is, it’s gone in an instant. But what if that whirring bit of space were headed... straight towards the Earth, not past it? Yeah, not so cute. This week, Christina Hernández and Terik Daly of NASA join Jonathan to talk about asteroids, what they’re made of, and how we could protect the planet if one came hurtling towards the place we call home.   Chris

Sep 7, 2022 • 1:07:18

How Did You Develop Such Amazing Taste? (ICYMI) with Sohla El-Waylly

We’re spending this week cooking up some incredible fall programming. To tide you over, here’s a re-air of our episode with Sohla El-Waylly, all about cooking basics, ancient recipes, and Sohla and Jonathan’s shared affinity for a certain Taco Bell classic that was discontinued at the time of this recording and is now BACK!    Sohla El-Waylly is a culinary creator, writer, and community advocate. She’s the guest editor of the forthcoming collection The Best American Food Writing 2022,

Aug 31, 2022 • 53:21

What’s The Meaning Of “Raizado”? with Mónica Ramírez

There are more than 62 million Latine people living in the United States. Some are US-born, others are recent immigrants, and still more have had family members here for centuries—living on land that was once part of Mexico. This week, Mónica Ramírez returns to Getting Curious to discuss how the Latine community is “deeply rooted” in the US, what it looks like to protect the humanity and dignity of these 62 million people, and why advocates like Mónica aren’t simply showing up at spaces

Aug 24, 2022 • 1:03:22

How Legendary Is The Milky Way? with Dr. Moiya McTier

Gossip Galaxy here, your one and only source into the scandalous lives of the universe’s elite. I have it on *expert* authority that the Milky Way is stirring up cosmic drama. Has this Local Group galaxy had enough of its central black hole? Will they or won’t they with Andromeda? And is spaghettification the real dish of the summer? Dr. Moiya McTier and Jonathan tell all in this week’s stellar episode.   Dr. Moiya McTier is an astrophysicist, folklorist, and science communicator based

Aug 17, 2022 • 1:16:44

Can State Legislatures Save Us? with Gaby Goldstein and Lala Wu of Sister District

You want LGBTQIA+ rights? You want reproductive justice? You want to end mass incarceration? You want environmental protections? You want living wages? You better vote for state legislature, b**ch. Sister District co-founders Gaby Goldstein and Lala Wu return to Getting Curious for a conversation all about the upcoming midterm elections, and specifically what’s in store for state legislative races. Listen in as they discuss what it’ll take for Democrats and progressives to hold their gr

Aug 10, 2022 • 1:01:54

When Viruses Spread, Who’s Most Vulnerable? with Dr. Steven W. Thrasher

A note from Jonathan and team Getting Curious: we recorded this episode in May, the same day the first case of monkeypox was documented in the US. Today there are nearly 6000 confirmed cases—and counting—across the country. If you’re a member of the queer community or an ally, we implore you to make the spread of monkeypox a personal problem—and to put pressure on elected leaders to take this outbreak seriously. Dr. Thrasher's work is central to understanding how and why this virus is s

Aug 3, 2022 • 1:19:55

Are We Scammers? A Scam Goddess Special with Laci Mosley

Jonathan is a guest on one of our favorite podcasts this week: Scam Goddess. And we’re releasing that episode on our Getting Curious feed, too. Did we scam host Laci Mosley and her team into producing an episode of Getting Curious for us? Perhaps. Will you love what you hear? Absolutely. Listen in as Laci and Jonathan discuss an iconic scam from art history, and get a feel for how Jonathan gets curious from the guest seat.   Head to the Scam Goddess podcast feed for notes and sources fr

Jul 27, 2022 • 59:58

If Faith Moves Mountains, Can It Also Move Climate Action? with Dekila Chungyalpa

In 2015, Senator Jim Inhofe brought a snowball to Congress to “prove” that climate change wasn’t real. Only God, he claimed, could change the climate. He was wrong on two fronts: one, climate change is real. And two, faith and climate science are *not* incompatible. This week, Dekila Chungyalpa joins Jonathan to discuss her work collaborating with faith leaders on climate efforts, how she confronts climate change disinterest and skepticism, and why she’s bringing the sacred back into sc

Jul 20, 2022 • 1:19:27

How Has White Supremacy F*cked With Reproductive Justice? with Professor Jacki Antonovich

Well, here we are. Roe v. Wade has been overturned, and it’s more urgent than ever to rally for reproductive rights across the country—and understand how we got to this point. This week, Professor Jacki Antonovich joins Jonathan to explore the history of abortion care and forced sterilization in the US, how white supremacy has shaped reproductive politics, and why Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman isn’t the historical fiction we may think it is. CW: This episode includes descriptions of bodily

Jul 13, 2022 • 1:08:05

ICYMI: Who Built The Panama Canal? with Professor Kaysha Corinealdi

July Fourth got us thinking: what does “independence” look like for American-controlled territories? To explore that question, we’re re-running an episode from the archives with Professor Kaysha Corinealdi, where she and Jonathan discuss the political history and legacy of the US-controlled Panama Canal Zone. And all week on our @CuriouswithJVN social media pages, we’ll be highlighting episodes from our archives that interrogate the idea of “freedom” in the US and abroad.Kaysha Corinealdi is an

Jul 6, 2022 • 1:06:00

How Do You Take Pride In Farming? with Lee Hennessy

When we first met Lee Hennessy, he introduced himself as “a farmer, doing farmer things, living the farmer life, who happens to be trans.” To round out our “Pride In Nature” series, we’re learning all about Lee’s life running Moxie Ridge Farm & Creamery, what it was like to come out after opening the farm, and what farming has taught him about sex and gender. A note to listeners: Lee’s work as a livestock farmer involves creating and selling animal products, including things like ch

Jun 29, 2022 • 1:19:58

What The Actual F*ck? Life After Roe v. Wade

Well, f*ck. In light of the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, we on team Getting Curious wanted to check in with our listeners.  We are devastated by this news. We also know that in difficult moments, it’s important to be in community and conversation with each other. We have an episode in the works all about the history of reproductive care in the United States. It’s not slated for release until July— But today, we’re bringing you a preview.  Here is an excerpt from our u

Jun 24, 2022 • 18:32

How Are You Lighting Up The Runway For Representation? with Munroe Bergdorf

We love a “both and” moment, and this week’s guest is giving us just that: Munroe Bergdorf is both a stunning model and an incredible LGBTQIA+ role model. She and Jonathan celebrate this month’s “Pride In Nature” series with a conversation about her early love for the outdoors, the importance of trans inclusion in sports, and her hopes for representation in the fashion industry and beyond. Munroe Bergdorf is a writer, model, and activist. She has spoken on international panels from Oxfo

Jun 22, 2022 • 57:07

What Stories Do America’s Monuments Tell? with Dr. Elizabeth Alexander

You’re planning an afternoon with friends, just east of Atlanta, Georgia. A picnic, maybe a scenic walk, some fireworks as the sun goes down. You find a park that seems to have it all: Stone Mountain. Then you do some research on it—and learn that it holds significance for the Confederacy AND the modern Ku Klux Klan. WTF?! In the lead-up to Juneteenth, Dr. Elizabeth Alexander joins Jonathan to explore the history and contemporary significance of America’s monuments—who’s represented, in what way

Jun 15, 2022 • 49:59

Are Mushrooms Truly Magic? with Dr. Patty Kaishian

Jonathan long saw mushrooms as an ingredient to avoid on a menu—until they learned that mushrooms, and fungi more generally, have a lot to do with queerness. In this week’s “Pride In Nature” episode, Dr. Patty Kaishian joins Jonathan to discuss fungi behavior and reproduction, her groundbreaking work on queer mycology, and how changing our relationships with fungi can change the world. Dr. Patty Kaishian is a mycologist and Visiting Professor at Bard College. Her research focuses on fun

Jun 8, 2022 • 1:12:16

How Queer Is The Animal Kingdom? with Eliot Schrefer

Were there same-sex couples on Noah’s Ark? Was Glee right that dolphins are just gay sharks? What’s a bonobo handshake?! Eliot Schrefer and Jonathan kick off our “Pride In Nature” series, running through June, with a conversation all about queer behaviors observed in animals. It’s “gay stuff” meets “why we need to ‘say gay’” stuff.   You can follow Eliot on Twitter @eliotschrefer and on Instagram @schrefer. Visit him online at www.eliotschrefer.com, and make sure to check out his new book Que

Jun 1, 2022 • 1:13:38

What’s It Like To Return To Downton Abbey? with Laura Carmichael and Allen Leech

*A note from the Getting Curious team: We delivered this episode just as news broke about the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Elementary schools are supposed to be spaces for learning, growth, and creativity. No child or adult should ever have to worry about gun violence when they step into a classroom. You can follow our @CuriouswithJVN social media pages for resources and developments.* Jonathan has spent a decade preparing for this week’s episode: they’ve pored over countless hours

May 25, 2022 • 58:21

How F$^*#d Up Is Fatphobia? with Professor Sabrina Strings

What do Enlightenment-era paintings, 19th-century American fashion magazines, and Sir Mix-A-Lot’s “Baby Got Back” have in common? They’re all strong examples of what fatphobia has to do with race, class, and gender discrimination. This week, learn all about the origins of anti-fat bias, and how it persists today, with Professor Sabrina Strings.  Sabrina Strings, Ph.D. is a Chancellor's Fellow and Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of California, Irvine. Sabrina has been

May 18, 2022 • 1:01:06

What’s The Power Of Labor Organizing? with Kim Kelly

This fall, pro-union sentiment in the US rose to 68 percent—the highest it’s been since 1965. We’re living through a major moment for labor organizing, and we have so many questions! How did we get here? Who got us here? And what’s at stake for workers across the country today? Kim Kelly joins Jonathan to discuss the power of collective bargaining, worker solidarity, and her new book FIGHT LIKE HELL, an intersectional history of labor movements in the US. Kim Kelly is an independent jou

May 11, 2022 • 1:06:39

Does Curiosity Grow On Trees? with Professor Beronda Montgomery

*A note from Jonathan and the Getting Curious team: We are covering the latest SCOTUS developments on Instagram and Twitter @CuriouswithJVN. Head there for insights from past guests, resources, and relevant episodes from our archive. We invite you to listen to this episode whenever feels right for you, and we hope that you’ll find comfort and energy from it.*   The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and we have a spring in our step because Professor Beronda Montgomery is bac

May 4, 2022 • 1:04:33

Who Were History’s “Female Husbands”? with Professor Jen Manion

What was it like to trans gender if you were living in 18th or 19th century England or America? This week, Professor Jen Manion joins Jonathan to explore the world of “female husbands,” people who were raised as girls but lived as men. Listen in to learn about these resilient individuals’ lives; how they were treated by their partners and the press; and how they paved the way for queer and trans communities today.  Jen Manion is a writer, historian, and advocate whose work examines the

Apr 27, 2022 • 57:55

How Did You Become A Superstar? with Molly Shannon

Sometimes, when we get real excited about an episode, we stick our hands under our armpits and SNIFF ’EM! And this week, we’re real excited, because we have none other than THE superstar Molly Shannon on the show. Listen in as she and Jonathan discuss her comedy career, her new book Hello, Molly!, and how they crossed paths long before Jonathan was cast on Queer Eye. Molly Shannon is an Emmy-nominated and Independent Spirit Award-winning actress and comedian. You know her from her Satur

Apr 20, 2022 • 49:36

What’s A Day In The Life Of A Coral Reef? with Dr. Juli Berwald

Coral are teeny tiny animals just two layers thick, and yet they create the biggest structures made by any biological creatures on the planet—like, the size of Italy big. Literally HOW! This week, Dr. Juli Berwald and Jonathan dive deep on all things coral, from their mating behaviors to their “badass merger” with algae to coral reefs’ critical importance to life in the ocean and on land. Juli Berwald received her PhD in ocean science from the University of Southern California. She’s th

Apr 13, 2022 • 54:19

What Was It Like To Get Loved Up In Georgian England? with Dr. Sally Holloway

This one’s for everyone who watched Bridgerton and wondered: could I get it in Georgian England?! Dr. Sally Holloway joins Jonathan to discuss the ins and outs of love and courtship in this era, including gifts and letters people would exchange, 18th century contraception, and the historical equivalents of ghosting and catfishing.   Dr. Sally Holloway is a historian of gender, emotions, and visual and material culture over the long 18th and nineteenth centuries, and is a Vice Chancello

Apr 6, 2022 • 1:05:59

Can’t Wait For “Love That Story”? Here’s A Preview!

We love a reason to be extra, and Jonathan’s new book Love That Story: Observations from a Gorgeously Queer Life goes on sale next week, so we’re dropping an extra episode to celebrate! Listen in to hear Jonathan read a chapter from the Love That Story audiobook, all about overcoming body issues and learning to love themselves.   Before you dive in, please note that in this chapter, Jonathan discusses their experiences with binge eating and food restriction. So take this episode at your

Apr 4, 2022 • 27:18

What’s The Power of Trans Joy? with Adri Pèrez and Chase Strangio of the ACLU

As we count down to this year’s Trans Day of Visibility, there’s a lot to be thankful for: trans creativity, resilience, community. There’s also a lot on the line for trans people and those who love them. Adri Pèrez and Chase Strangio of the ACLU join Jonathan to discuss the importance of protecting trans rights, what attacks on the trans community say about state power, and what a coordinated resistance could look like. Adri Pèrez is the policy & advocacy strategist for the ACLU of

Mar 30, 2022 • 51:12

How Ranging Is The Eastern Himalaya? with Dr. Mona Chettri

What comes to mind when you think of the Himalaya? For Jonathan, it’s a whole lot of questions! This week’s guest Dr. Mona Chettri gives us a glimpse at life in the eastern Himalaya, including how political borders have shaped the region; what’s changing amidst rapid development; and what the future might hold for young residents.   Mona Chettri is a Post-Doctoral Research fellow at the Australia-India Institute, University of Western Australia. She has worked extensively on urbanisation, ethn

Mar 23, 2022 • 1:03:37

What’re The Adventures of Frogs and Toads? with Professor Kelly Zamudio

“Blah,” said Toad. “I feel down in the dumps.”    “Why?” asked Frog.    “I’m thinking about how there’s never been an episode of Getting Curious about us.”   Frog opened up his podcast feed.   Toad peered over his shoulder.   “Toad, there it is! An episode of Getting Curious with herpetologist Kelly Zamudio! All about where we live, how we interact, and why we’re so important to biodiversity.”   They pressed play—and now, they invite you to do the same.   Kelly Zamudio is an evolutionar

Mar 16, 2022 • 1:10:27

Does Old MacDonald Need A Makeover? with Professor Gabe Rosenberg

Old MacDonald had a farm—and on that farm he had rich terrain for an episode of Getting Curious. Join Professor Gabe Rosenberg and Jonathan as they explore what agricultural history has to do with our modern understandings of sex, gender, and sexuality. They cover the concept of “animal husbandry,” 4-H clubs, the story of a pig looking for love, and so much more.   Gabriel N. Rosenberg is Associate Professor of Gender, Sexuality and Feminist Studies and History at Duke University, wher

Mar 9, 2022 • 1:12:27

Why Is Olive Oil So Extra? with Professor Selina Wang

This episode’s dedicated to our main squeeze: olive oil. Professor Selina Wang joins Jonathan to discuss olive oil varieties, processing, and fraud—yes, fraud! Plus, Jonathan gets clarity on why they can’t bear to eat an olive but can’t get enough of olive oil. Prof. Selina Wang is an Associate Professor of Cooperative Extension at the Department of Food Science and Technology at UC Davis. Her mission-oriented research and teaching focuses are food quality and purity; fruit and vegetabl

Mar 2, 2022 • 57:54

Hair Variation, What’s Her Story? with Dr. Tina Lasisi

What do you get when a biological anthropologist studying hair and a hairstylist compare notes? A stunning new episode of Getting Curious. Join Dr. Tina Lasisi and Jonathan as they explore the evolutionary history of human hair, measuring hair variation, and the twists and turns of Jonathan’s hair school textbook. Tina Lasisi is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Biological Anthropology. Her research is on the evolution and genetics of human variation in pigmentation and scalp hair. She also

Feb 23, 2022 • 1:23:31

What’s It Like To Get Curious? with Jonathan Van Ness

This week on Getting Curious, Jonathan’s in the guest seat! You submitted your questions for Jonathan on social media—and we have answers. We’re talking Getting Curious the podcast and Netflix series, self-care, gymnastics, gardening, and so much more. And for those of you who wondered when Jonathan’s husband Mark would make his podcast debut? We’ve got an answer for that, too. Join in on the conversation, and find out what former guests are up to, by following us on Instagram and Twitt

Feb 16, 2022 • 54:45

Why Do We Fall For Fake News? with Dr. Nadia Brashier

Have you ever read a headline that seems just plausible enough—when you realize it’s fake? This week, Dr. Nadia Brashier joins Jonathan to discuss how our brains process misinformation, why even one exposure to a falsehood can increase our odds of believing it, and what we can do to debunk fake news. Dr. Nadia Brashier is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Sciences at Purdue University. She studies why people fall for fake news and how we can intervene. You can follow Dr. Brashier

Feb 9, 2022 • 52:30

How Do You Get Your Bake Off? with Prue Leith

It’s Prue Week on Getting Curious! On the Great British Baking Show (aka the Great British Bake Off), it’s clear that Prue Leith has excellent taste. But what’s Prue up to when she’s not judging crème pat, frangipane, and the occasional soggy bottom? This week, Prue and Jonathan dish on how Prue developed her palette, their shared love of gardening, and what’s on their creative plates this year.    Dame Prue Leith, DBE, DL is a businesswoman, journalist, novelist, cookery writer and bro

Feb 2, 2022 • 56:03

How Major Are Volcanoes? with Professor Chris Jackson

Since 1997, Jonathan has been haunted by a question: could a volcano erupt a la Dante’s Peak and turn a local creek into a river of hot acid? This week, Professor Chris Jackson answers all of Jonathan’s burning questions about how volcanoes are formed, what happens when they erupt, and how Pierce Brosnan’s character in Dante’s Peak would have fared against a real pyroclastic flow. Chris Jackson is Chair in Sustainable Geoscience at the University of Manchester and spent 16 years at Impe

Jan 26, 2022 • 1:13:34

What’s Indigenous Science? with Dr. Jessica Hernandez

Indigenous peoples represent about five percent of the world’s population—and sustain nearly 80 percent of the world’s biodiversity. This week, Dr. Jessica Hernandez joins Jonathan to discuss the principles of Indigenous science, Indigenous land stewardship, and what it will take to heal Indigenous landscapes.  Dr. Jessica Hernandez (Maya Ch’orti’ & Binnizá) is a transnational Indigenous scholar, scientist, and community advocate based in the Pacific Northwest. In her new book Fresh

Jan 19, 2022 • 1:08:02

Can Figure Skaters Defy Gravity? with Dr. Deborah King

What happens when you add JVN to E = mc²? You get an episode of Getting Curious all about physics, explored through one of Jonathan’s favorite topics: figure skating! This week, Dr. Deborah King joins Jonathan to break down the biomechanics behind skating techniques, the cutting edge technology she’s using to research ice sports, and how we can watch the winter Olympics like scientists. Dr. Deborah King is a professor of biomechanics in the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences at I

Jan 12, 2022 • 1:08:07

Do Spider Exoskeletons Go Out Of Style? with Dr. Maydianne Andrade

As the itsy bitsy spider crawls up the water spout, it dawns on her: her exoskeleton doesn’t fit. Is it a fashion emergency—or her moment to shine? This week, Dr. Maydianne Andrade joins Jonathan to share the ins and outs of spider growth, behavior, and reproduction.    Dr. Maydianne Andrade is a professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough, and president of the Canadian Black Scientists Network.   You can follow Dr. Andrade on Twitter @WidowWeb, and at may

Jan 5, 2022 • 1:09:24

What’s The Soundtrack To Your Life? with Brandi Carlile

We’re ending this year on a high note with none other than Brandi Carlile! She and Jonathan talk Brandi’s incredible music career, queer faith, and Dolly Parton—and Jonathan asks hard-hitting questions like, “Did you know you’d grow up to be Brandi Carlile, Brandi Carlile?” Brandi Carlile is a six-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, performer, producer, New York Times best selling author and activist. Her new album In These Silent Days was released this past fall to widespread

Dec 29, 2021 • 50:24

How Much History Is In A Burrito? with Pati Jinich

This week’s episode is as nourishing as they get, as chef Pati Jinich joins Jonathan to discuss cuisines along the US-Mexico border, holiday foods she associates with growing up in Mexico, and what we can learn from taking a bite out of a burrito.   Pati Jinich is a James Beard Award-winning Mexican chef who has dedicated her career to building a shared understanding between her two home countries: Mexico and the United States. Her long-running PBS series Pati’s Mexican Table has brou

Dec 22, 2021 • 1:02:28

What’s It Like To Be An Ex-Nun? with Kelli Dunham and Mary Johnson

If you’re a regular listener of Getting Curious, you know how much Jonathan loves the Sister Act films. But how realistic were they? This week, former nuns Kelli Dunham and Mary Johnson share what it was like to serve with Mother Teresa (yeah, that Mother Teresa) in the Missionaries of Charity—and why they left the congregation. Kelli Dunham is a comic, writer, nurse, and genderqueer ex-nun. You can follow Kelli on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube @kellidunham—and at kellidunha

Dec 15, 2021 • 1:19:20

Who Built The Panama Canal? with Professor Kaysha Corinealdi

In 1903, a Frenchman and an American granted the United States ninety nine years of control over the Isthmus of Panama. No Panamanians signed that treaty. This week, Professor Kaysha Corinealdi and Jonathan explore the political history and legacy of what came next: the Panama Canal. Kaysha Corinealdi is an interdisciplinary historian of modern empires, migration, gender, and activism in the Americas. Her forthcoming book Panama in Black centers the activism of Afro-Caribbean migrants a

Dec 8, 2021 • 1:12:48

How Sharp Is The History Of Scissors? with Teresa Collenette

This week’s episode is a cut above the rest, as we explore the history and cultural significance of scissors. Join Jonathan and design historian Teresa Collenette as they talk ancient spring scissors, Victorian-era chatelaines, Jonathan’s go-to hair shears, and Teresa’s incredible collection of more than 100 pairs of scissors.  Teresa Collenette is a design historian, curator and collector. Teresa has curated several exhibitions with the Fashion and Textile Museum, including The Secret

Dec 1, 2021 • 1:03:29

How Expansive Is Oregon Trail History? with Professor Margaret Huettl

Can you map out the Oregon Trail? If you just flashed back to playing The Oregon Trail video game in your sixth grade computer lab, get ready for a journey. Jonathan and Professor Margaret Huettl explore how Native knowledge systems established the Oregon Trail; how Native peoples experienced non-Native settlers moving West; and how Indigenous communities today are reckoning with this past to build a better future.   Margaret Huettl, a descendant of Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibweg, Assyrian

Nov 24, 2021 • 1:05:02

What’s The Deal With Tear Gas? with Professor Anna Feigenbaum

You may have seen tear gas marketed as a “non-lethal” or “less lethal” weapon. The truth is more dangerous. This week, Professor Anna Feigenbaum breaks down what’s in tear gas, who manufactures it, and what its poisonous history reveals about profit motivation and modern policing. Professor Anna Feigenbaum works at Bournemouth University in the South of England. She is the author of Tear Gas (Verso 2017). Her recent project The Data Storytelling Workbook (Routledge 2020) provides a guid

Nov 17, 2021 • 1:01:28

How Can We Put The “I” In LGBTQIA+? with Alicia Roth Weigel

Have you ever met a redhead? Someone with green eyes? Someone with intersex traits?  If you answered yes to the first two questions, you can likely answer yes to the third: being intersex is as common as having red hair or green eyes. And that’s almost definitely an undercount.  This week, Alicia Roth Weigel lays out what it means to have intersex traits, why so many intersex children face medical abuse, and what justice looks like for intersex people. Alicia Roth Weigel is a Forbes and

Nov 10, 2021 • 56:05

What’s The Cure For Vaccine Misinformation? with Dr. Kolina Koltai

Chances are, you’ve been exposed to vaccine misinformation. And you could be at risk of believing it. This week, Dr. Kolina Koltai joins Jonathan to explore how vaccine misinformation travels online, why it’s so dangerous, and how you can stop it from spreading.   Dr. Kolina Koltai is a postdoctoral fellow at the Center for an Informed Public at the University of Washington. Her research focuses on the anti-vaccine community’s use of sociotechnical systems to find, share, and assess va

Nov 3, 2021 • 1:03:02

Are Dams Cute… Or Not So Cute? with Professor Heather Randell

Dams, what’s their story? Are they scenic sites? Harmful structures? This week, Professor Heather Randell and Jonathan go on a journey through dam history, ecology, and sociology. Listen in to learn about why dams are built; who they serve; and how they can cause displacement, change river ecology, and contribute to climate change. Heather Randell is an Assistant Professor of Rural Sociology and Demography at Penn State. She studies how dam construction affects local communities as well

Oct 27, 2021 • 57:54

How Do You Make Me LOL So Hard? with Amanda Seales

You know those hangout episodes of your favorite TV shows? This episode’s like that, but in podcast form. Grab a seat and spend an hour with Jonathan and comedian, producer, writer, actor (and more!) Amanda Seales. The two explore their shared passion for gymnastics, how Amanda crafts her Instagram-famous comedy songs, and why it can be a compliment to be called “difficult.”  Want another round with Amanda and Jonathan? Head over to Amanda’s podcast Small Doses for the second half of th

Oct 20, 2021 • 50:21

What’s It Like To Survive An Earthquake? with Professor Ashly Cabas

Even the best earthquake early warning systems will give you only five to eight seconds of notice before you experience ground shaking. This week, Jonathan and geotechnical engineer Ashly Cabas take more than an hour exploring seismic waves, soils, risk assessment, and other earthquake fundamentals so that you can be prepared in the event of a natural hazard.   Ashly Cabas, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at North

Oct 13, 2021 • 1:15:19

How Do You Bring It On? with Gabrielle Union

Actress, executive producer, activist, and best-selling author Gabrielle Union joins Jonathan to discuss radical transparency, allyship, and her new book You Got Anything Stronger?   You can follow Gabrielle on Twitter @itsgabrielleu and Instagram @gabunion.    Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodS

Oct 6, 2021 • 45:04

How Do You Bring It On? with Gabrielle Union

Actress, executive producer, activist, and best-selling author Gabrielle Union joins Jonathan to discuss radical transparency, allyship, and her new book You Got Anything Stronger?   You can follow Gabrielle on Twitter @itsgabrielleu and Instagram @gabunion.    Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com.

Oct 6, 2021 • 51:09

Has Our Medicine System Expired? with Priti Krishtel

America’s first medical patents date back to the 1790s—and patents still inform our every prescription, vaccine, and pharmacy run. This week on Getting Curious, Priti Krishtel joins Jonathan to break down the basics on medical patents. Why do they exist? Who do they serve? And how equitable are they?   Priti Krishtel is a health justice lawyer and co-founder of I-MAK, a non-profit building a more just and equitable medicines system. She has spent nearly two decades exposing structural ineq

Sep 29, 2021 • 54:23

Has Our Medicine System Expired? with Priti Krishtel

America’s first medical patents date back to the 1790s—and patents still inform our every prescription, vaccine, and pharmacy run. This week on Getting Curious, Priti Krishtel joins Jonathan to break down the basics on medical patents. Why do they exist? Who do they serve? And how equitable are they?     Priti Krishtel is a health justice lawyer and co-founder of I-MAK, a non-profit building a more just and equitable medicines system. She has spent nearly two decades exposing structura

Sep 29, 2021 • 1:00:32

Is This What Harmony Sounds Like? with Demi Lovato

This week, Demi Lovato joins Jonathan to discuss the difference between accomplishment and joy, finding serenity off stage, and Dolly Parton’s tour bus. You can follow Demi on Instagram and Twitter @ddlovato. If you loved hearing Jonathan and Demi together, make sure to subscribe to their podcast 4D with Demi Lovato for a special episode coming out soon! Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each

Sep 22, 2021 • 50:48

Is This What Harmony Sounds Like? with Demi Lovato

This week, Demi Lovato joins Jonathan to discuss the difference between accomplishment and joy, finding serenity off stage, and Dolly Parton’s tour bus.   You can follow Demi on Instagram and Twitter @ddlovato. If you loved hearing Jonathan and Demi together, make sure to subscribe to their podcast 4D with Demi Lovato for a special episode coming out soon!   Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcript

Sep 22, 2021 • 44:43

What’s Chemistry Got To Do With Haircare? with Ramya Viswanathan

Some of us have our best ideas in the shower. Others have the best ideas for how to shampoo and condition while we’re taking those showers. This week, Jonathan sits down (in person!) with Ramya Viswanathan, chemist and principal formulator for JVN Hair, to discuss the science of haircare.  You can follow all things JVN Hair on Instagram @jvnhair, and at www.jvnhair.com. For hair tutorials, behind the scenes footage, and other exclusive JVN Hair content, head over to JVN Beauty on YouTub

Sep 15, 2021 • 43:18

What’s Chemistry Got To Do With Haircare? with Ramya Viswanathan

Some of us have our best ideas in the shower. Others have the best ideas for how to shampoo and condition while we’re taking those showers. This week, Jonathan sits down (in person!) with Ramya Viswanathan, chemist and principal formulator for JVN Hair, to discuss the science of haircare.  You can follow all things JVN Hair on Instagram @jvnhair, and at www.jvnhair.com. For hair tutorials, behind the scenes footage, and other exclusive JVN Hair content, head over to JVN Beauty on YouTube.

Sep 15, 2021 • 37:13

What Are You Cooking Up This Fall? with Padma Lakshmi

Need a palate cleanser? Have we got an episode for you. Padma Lakshmi joins Jonathan to discuss the key to a great grilled cheese, the ingredient that makes her chicken stock sublime, her new children’s book Tomatoes For Neela, and so much more. Padma Lakshmi is the creator and host of Hulu’s Taste the Nation and host and executive producer of the Emmy-winning Bravo series Top Chef. She is the bestselling author of two cookbooks, the Encyclopedia of Spices and Herbs, as well as her memo

Sep 8, 2021 • 40:02

What Does The US Department Of Education Do? with Secretary Miguel Cardona

School is back in session, and so is Getting Curious! This week, Jonathan sits down with Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to better understand Pell Grants, Pre-K, and how the Department of Education plays a role in each child’s education.Dr. Miguel A. Cardona currently serves as the 12th Secretary of Education. Since beginning his journey as an educator, Secretary Cardona has served as an elementary school teacher, school principal, Performance and Evaluation lead administrator, Assistant S

Sep 1, 2021 • 33:29

Ready For Another Round? with Getting Curious LIVE!

Refresh your beach playlist with a second serving of Getting Curious LIVE! For our last episode of the summer season, we’re giving you a taste of some top-shelf interviews recorded on Kesha's Weird & Wonderful Rainbow Ride Cruise, at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, and backstage at Jonathan’s Road to Beijing tour in Brisbane.   Featuring interviews with Detox, Thorgy Thor, Bob The Drag Queen, Erin Gibson, Nicole Byer, and Mawaan Rizwan.   Find out what today’s guest

Aug 25, 2021 • 47:39

How Hot Is This Episode? with Getting Curious LIVE!

We’re celebrating the dog days of summer with two weeks’ worth of our favorite Getting Curious tapings from festivals, tour stops, and even a cruise. This week, cool down with interviews recorded live at Clusterfest and Outside Lands in San Francisco, and Vulture Fest in New York. The guests are amazing, the humor is on point, and the admission is free.Featuring interviews with Cat Cohen, Ayo Edebiri, Julio Torres, Jaboukie Young-White, Michelle Wolf, Florence Welch, and Justin Theroux.

Aug 18, 2021 • 52:22

Who Was Keeping It Real In Ancient Mesoamerica? with James Doyle

Join Jonathan and archaeologist James Doyle as they explore early Mesoamerican arts, cultures, and communities on this week’s Getting Curious. Listen in to learn about the numeral and writing systems that connected Mesoamerican societies thousands of years ago, the significance of commodities like jade and marine shell, and the ways in which Mesoamerican traditions continue today.   James Doyle is an assistant curator in the Department of the Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas fo

Aug 11, 2021 • 1:03:42

How Can My Dogs Live Their Best Lives? with Dr. Sarah-Elizabeth Byosiere

We are in for a real treat this week as Dr. Sarah-Elizabeth Byosiere joins Jonathan for an episode all about dogs! How do dogs perceive colors and sounds? What are best practices for dog training? Is alpha behavior a real thing? And are Jonathan’s dogs Pablo and Elton on track to be best friends?!   Sarah-Elizabeth Byosiere, Ph.D., is the Director of the Thinking Dog Center and Assistant Professor at Hunter College (CUNY) where she focuses on studying the behavior and cognition of domes

Aug 4, 2021 • 1:06:14

What’s The Cost Of Intimate Partner Violence? with Sonya Passi

One in four women and one in two trans people will experience intimate partner violence in the United States, and the primary obstacle to safety for survivors is financial security. Sonya Passi joins Jonathan to discuss what it looks like to reframe intimate partner violence as a structural economic issue, and what it will take to give survivors the support they need to thrive.   As a sensitivity warning, this episode discusses intimate partner violence in detail. We hope that centering an epi

Jul 28, 2021 • 56:40

What Were The Very First Olympics Like? with Professors Sarah E. Bond and Joel Christensen

On the eve of the Tokyo Olympics, we’re turning our attention to another era of athletic competitions: the ancient Olympics. Professors Sarah E. Bond and Joel Christensen join Jonathan to discuss these early games and what they reveal about ancient Greek and Roman politics, religions, gender roles, and more. After you listen, make sure to check out Dr. Bond’s first appearance on the show: Would I Have Been The Toast Of The Ancient Mediterranean? Sarah E. Bond is an Associate Professor o

Jul 21, 2021 • 1:21:01

What Does Justice Look Like For Farmworkers? with Mónica Ramírez

This week on Getting Curious, we’re going from table to farm to learn more about where our food comes from, and who is producing it. Activist and lawyer Mónica Ramírez joins Jonathan to discuss the history of farmwork in the United States, the labor conditions facing contemporary farmworkers, and the work she and her peers are doing to prioritize legal and mental health support for farmworker communities.   Mónica Ramírez is an attorney, author and activist. She is the founder of Justic

Jul 14, 2021 • 1:12:18

How Can We Mobilize For The Midterms? with Lala Wu and Gaby Goldstein

This week on Getting Curious, Sister District’s Lala Wu and Gaby Goldstein are here to remind us that there are no off-year elections, only odd-year elections—and we’re in the midst of a major campaign season. Lala and Gaby break down why this year’s state legislature races are a bellwether for the midterms, what’s going on with redistricting, and how you can get involved in electing progressives across the country. Once you’ve listened to the episode, make sure to check out Gaby’s firs

Jul 7, 2021 • 53:39

What Does Pride Mean To You? with Ashlee Marie Preston

Last June, LGBTQIA+ activist, journalist, and media personality Ashlee Marie Preston joined Jonathan on Instagram Live for a conversation about Pride, racial justice, and everyday acts of resistance. To round out Pride this year, we’re releasing that conversation as a podcast episode.   Follow Ashlee Marie Preston on Instagram @ashleemariepreston and Twitter @AshleeMPreston, and learn more about her work at YouAreEssential.org. Make sure to revisit her first appearance on Getting Curious, rece

Jun 30, 2021 • 1:03:16

Do Beauty Standards Need A Glow Up? with David Yi

This week on Getting Curious, Jonathan and David Yi explore the history of beauty beyond the gender binary. Listen in to learn about Neanderthals who used highlighters, Korean warriors who invented three-in-one sticks, ancient Egyptians who relied on anti-aging creams, and more stunning historical figures.   David Yi is the co-founder of good light, a gender-inclusive beauty brand, and editor of Very Good Light, a men's and masc-identifying beauty publication. They are the author of the

Jun 23, 2021 • 52:50

Who Was Doing The Most In Early China? with Professor Jue Guo

This week, Professor Jue Guo returns to Getting Curious, which means we are returning to Early China! She and Jonathan discuss what a week in the life might look like for a royal hairdresser, a performance artist, a regional king, and other figures from this period and place. This episode can be enjoyed on its own, but if you can’t get enough of Early China, make sure to check out Professor Guo’s first appearance on the show, where we ask: Can You Set The Scene For Early China? Jue Guo is an A

Jun 16, 2021 • 1:22:50

How Are You Making History In Congress? with Rep. Sharice Davids

Put on your ruby red slippers and click your heels three times, because this week’s episode of Getting Curious is taking us to Kansas. Congresswoman Sharice Davids joins Jonathan to discuss her historic election (and re-election!); her experience representing Kansans in Congress; and her new children’s book Sharice’s Big Voice.Sharice Davids is currently serving as the representative for Kansas’ Third District in Congress. Sharice was raised by a single mom and worked her way from Johnson County

Jun 9, 2021 • 49:24

So… Did You Miss Us? with Queer Eye’s Fab Five

We are ringing in Pride Month with a very special episode of Getting Curious, recorded live from the set of Netflix’s Queer Eye. Listen in for sit-down interviews with Tan France, Bobby Berk, Karamo Brown, and Antoni Porowski—and guest appearances from Queer Eye’s stellar production team.   You can follow the Fab Five on Instagram @tanfrance, @bobby, @karamo, and @antoni. Keep up with all things Queer Eye on Instagram @queereye.   Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to

Jun 2, 2021 • 1:16:01

Are Cicadas Partying Like It’s 2004? with Dr. Jessica Ware

Grab your Ugg boots and mini skirts and give three cheers for each of Carly Patterson's Olympic medals because this week on Getting Curious, 2004 is back in style. As billions of Brood X cicadas start to emerge across the eastern United States after 17 years, we’re re-releasing our episode from last summer with Dr. Jessica Ware, all about these trending insects. Dr. Ware is a curator of Odonata and non-Holometabolous insect orders at the American Museum of Natural History, New York and a profess

May 26, 2021 • 1:01:43

We’re Being Watched. Now What? with Meredith Broussard

It’s no secret that we rely on technology in our daily lives. So it shouldn’t be a secret how that technology works, who is developing it, and just how biased it can be. This week on Getting Curious, returning guest Meredith Broussard joins Jonathan to discuss how data rights are civil rights—and how we can all get involved in efforts to defend them.   Data journalist Meredith Broussard is an associate professor at the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute of New York University, resear

May 19, 2021 • 56:30

How Did You Develop Such Amazing Taste? with Sohla El-Waylly

This week’s episode of Getting Curious isn’t a snack, it’s a whole meal. Culinary creator, writer, and video host Sohla El-Waylly joins Jonathan to discuss cooking basics, ancient recipes, and their shared affinity for a certain discontinued Taco Bell classic. Sohla El-Waylly can currently be seen starring in The HISTORY® Channel’s online series Ancient Recipes with Sohla. Sohla is also currently one of the first-ever Resident Experts for Food52 with Off Script with Sohla, her curated monthly on

May 12, 2021 • 48:50

What Was Canada Up To During The American Revolution? with Professor Jeffers Lennox

This week on Getting Curious, things are looking up: to Canada! Professor Jeffers Lennox joins Jonathan to discuss early Canadian history, including British, French, and Indigenous relations in northeastern North America; Canada’s role in the American Revolution; Canada’s confederation story; and what the deal actually was with Benedict Arnold.   Jeffers Lennox is an associate professor of History at Wesleyan University. His current book project is North of America: British Provinces, t

May 5, 2021 • 56:31

How Much Do We ♥ Arlo? an Arlo The Alligator Boy Roundtable

This week on Getting Curious, Jonathan sits down with the creators and cast of Netflix’s new animated musical movie Arlo The Alligator Boy. Joining the discussion is director and writer Ryan Crego; supervising producer Blake Lemons; Mary Lambert, who plays Bertie; Michael J. Woodard, who plays Arlo—and Jonathan, who plays Furlecia! Listen in to learn all about the writing, casting, voiceover, and animation process.   You can follow Ryan on Instagram @creegsmamation; Blake @blahlemons; M

Apr 21, 2021 • 1:07:33

How Can We Find Clarity Through Art? with Lanecia Rouse

This week on Getting Curious, multidisciplinary visual artist Lanecia Rouse joins Jonathan to discuss how creative expression can help us make sense of our lives. Lanecia shares how she sources materials—like magazines, bricks, and strings—for her works; how she contends with questions of religion, grief, and joy in her art; and how she became a full-time artist.   Lanecia is a multidisciplinary visual artist based in Houston, TX and the owner and creator of LAR Art Studio. Her portfoli

Apr 14, 2021 • 1:23:28

What’s On Animals’ Minds? with Eva Meijer

This week’s Getting Curious is going to the dogs—and the cats and the cows and the crocodiles! Philosopher and writer Eva Meijer joins Jonathan for a conversation about how non-human animals communicate, why humans have often underestimated other species’ capacity for language, and what we can do to build more sustainable, respectful relationships with other species.   Among Eva’s books is Animal Languages, recently translated into English by Laura Watkinson and published by MIT Univers

Apr 7, 2021 • 1:04:49

What’s Astrology All About? with Diana Rose

This week on Getting Curious, we’re wishing Jonathan many happy returns with an extra special birthday edition of the show. Diana Rose joins Jonathan to discuss astrology, tarot, and other healing practices—complete with Jonathan’s first ever natal chart reading!   Diana Rose is an astrologer, tarot reader, & writer based in Los Angeles. Her practice aims to guide others towards cultivating a more compassionate and re-enchanted relationship with themselves & the world around the

Mar 31, 2021 • 1:30:52

Are Plants Literal Geniuses? with Professor Beronda Montgomery

This week on Getting Curious, Professor Beronda Montgomery joins Jonathan to discuss plant behavior, adaptation, and communication—plus, the question on everyone’s minds: will Jonathan’s lantana plants survive the winter?!   Beronda L. Montgomery is MSU Foundation Professor of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Microbiology & Molecular Genetics at Michigan State University. A Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Academy of Microbio

Mar 24, 2021 • 1:08:56

Does Sun Protection Have That “It” Factor? with Dr. Emily Newsom

Spring is on its way, the sun is shining, and we want to make sure you’re prepared to bask in the warm weather—even with your masks on! This week on Getting Curious, we’re re-releasing an episode from July 2019 on sun protection with Dr. Emily Newsom. Listen back as Jonathan and Dr. Newsom discuss the science behind sunscreen, tips for managing sun exposure, and more.   Dr. Emily Newsom is a board certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at UCLA Medical Center. You

Mar 17, 2021 • 47:22

Can You Set The Scene For Early China? with Professor Jue Guo

This week on Getting Curious, we’re traveling back to Early China with Professor Jue Guo. She and Jonathan discuss dynasties, empires, early instances of written language, and so much more. And because curiosity can’t always be contained to 40 minutes—okay, more like an hour and fifteen minutes—we’re planning a follow-up episode with Professor Guo. Make sure to jot down your questions about Early China as you listen, and keep an eye out on our social media accounts for a chance to have

Mar 10, 2021 • 1:17:58

How Did You Become Such An Amazing Artist? with A’Driane Nieves

We read your Instagram comments. We saw your clamoring for more information on the stunning painting behind Jonathan’s couch—and the artist behind the work. This week, we’re satisfying your curiosity (and ours!) with a conversation between Jonathan and the abstract expressionist painter and writer A’Driane Nieves. A’Driane shares how she developed her art practice, why she’s partial to acrylic paints and massive canvases, what she sees as a more equitable art world, and so much more.

Mar 3, 2021 • 1:23:15

Does This Episode Need Its Own Royal Title? with Emerald Fennell

We love going off script for Getting Curious, but we’re staying on it with this week’s guest: the Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated writer, director, actress, and author Emerald Fennell. She and Jonathan discuss her latest project and directorial feature film debut PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN, her role as Camilla Parker Bowles on THE CROWN, and so much more.   PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN, nominated for three Golden Globe awards, is a comedy thriller that centers on a woman, played by Carey Mulligan,

Feb 24, 2021 • 58:37

How Do You Persevere, Mars Rover? with Christina Hernandez

Put on your finest loungewear and raise your favorite coffee mug because this week’s episode of Getting Curious is an EVENT! After six years of incredible work, NASA’s Perseverance rover is now exploring Mars, and Jonathan spoke with Christina Hernandez, an engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, all about the mission just before landing day. Listen in to learn more about the Red Planet, the Perseverance mission, and Christina’s advice for the next generation of NASA innovators.

Feb 17, 2021 • 1:28:27

Can You Even Believe It’s Our 200th Episode?

This week on Getting Curious, we’re celebrating 200 episodes and five years of the show with a look back at some of our favorite segments on empowerment, advocacy, and exploration. We’re so grateful to all of our listeners and guests for taking this journey with us, and we’ll be back next week with an all new episode that’s truly out of this world! Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Check out Getting Curious

Feb 10, 2021 • 1:33:33

How Can We Honor Black Motherhood? with Anna Malaika Tubbs

This week on Getting Curious, we’re learning about three women who shaped the movement for civil rights in the United States—Alberta King, Louise Little, and Berdis Baldwin—but whose stories have too often been footnotes in books about their famous sons.   The writer and scholar Anna Malaika Tubbs joins Jonathan to discuss her new group biography The Three Mothers, her work studying Black motherhood as a Gates scholar and Ph.D. candidate in Sociology at Cambridge University, and her app

Feb 3, 2021 • 1:00:23

How Can We Raise The Bar On Trans Rights? with Lui Asquith

In December 2020, the UK High Court determined that trans, non-binary, and gender diverse young people in the UK must have legal approval before they can start puberty blockers—even if these young people, their families, and their doctors advocate for treatment. This week on Getting Curious, Lui Asquith joins Jonathan to break down what hormone blockers are, why this case is so significant, and how it fits into a broader discussion about trans rights in the UK and beyond.   Lui Asquith

Jan 27, 2021 • 58:31

How Can We Show Up For Mutual Aid? with Dean Spade

This week on Getting Curious, the writer, activist, and educator Dean Spade joins Jonathan to discuss how we can meet our neighbors’ survival needs through mutual aid, and better understand the systems we live under in the process. Listen in to learn about what mutual aid is, how it differs from charity, and why local wisdom is essential for sweeping change.   Dean Spade has been working to build queer and trans liberation based in racial and economic justice for the past two decades. H

Jan 20, 2021 • 57:40

How Fair is Banking? with Professor Mehrsa Baradaran

This week on Getting Curious, we’re following the money to better understand banking in America and the history of the country’s racial wealth gap. Professor Mehrsa Baradaran joins Jonathan to discuss banking deserts, overdraft fees, home loans, and more. (Like, what are capital gains, even?!)   Mehrsa Baradaran is a professor of law and associate dean at UC Irvine School of Law specializing in banking law and financial inequality. She is the author of How the Other Half Banks and The C

Jan 13, 2021 • 1:05:07

Who Gave Ancient Egyptians Permission To Be So Advanced? with Dr. Kathryn Howley

New year, old curiosity: this week on Getting Curious, we’re traveling back in time to ancient Egypt with Dr. Kathryn Howley. She and Jonathan discuss what life might have looked like for ancient Egyptian hairstylists, royalty, and scribes; how ancient Egyptians interacted with neighboring cultures; and what it’s like for Egyptologists to analyze archaeological remains.   Professor Howley is the Lila Acheson Wallace Assistant Professor of Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology at the Inst

Jan 6, 2021 • 56:07

How Does Figure Skating Give Us Life? with Michelle Kwan and Eliot Halverson

We’re gliding into the new year with the re-release of an episode from February 2019 with figure skating’s finest: Michelle Kwan and Eliot Halverson. Michelle and Eliot join Jonathan to talk all things skating: judging scandals, big coats, tracing figures, and Jonathan’s journey on the ice.   Michelle Kwan is an American figure skater, two-time Olympic medalist, five-time world champion, and nine-time US champion. Eliot Halverson is an American figure skater, choreographer, and three-time USFS

Dec 30, 2020 • 1:11:08

What’s It Like To Make Triple Axel History? with Mirai Nagasu

This holiday break, we’re re-releasing two of our favorite episodes, with three of our favorite experts, about one of our favorite topics: figure skating. First up is an episode from April 2018 with Olympic figure skater Mirai Nagasu, who was the first American female figure skater to land a triple Axel at the Olympics, earning her a bronze medal in PyeongChang in 2018. Jonathan and Mirai jump right into the technical, artistic, and political aspects of figure skating—and discuss what i

Dec 23, 2020 • 58:56

How Can Local Politics Be More Gender Inclusive? with Jesse Pierce and Samy Nemir Olivares

Did you know that if you want to represent your block in Brooklyn as a local elected official, you have to mark a gender designation—and the only options are “male” and “female”? This week on Getting Curious, Jonathan is speaking with Jesse Pierce and Samy Nemir Olivares, both elected District Leaders in Brooklyn, all about this gender rule: how it came into existence, why it’s exclusionary, and how we can work to make local seats across Brooklyn and the country more inclusive and equit

Dec 16, 2020 • 1:06:44

What Is Civil Asset Forfeiture? with Professor Saleema Snow

If you’re a close listener of Getting Curious, you’ll know that today’s conversation with Professor Saleema Snow, all about the practice known as civil asset forfeiture, is a long time coming. Civil asset forfeiture allows law enforcement to seize and often keep any property they suspect is involved in a crime. Jonathan wants to learn more about this practice: how deep its roots are, how it came to exist across the United States, what it reveals about discriminatory policing, and what i

Dec 9, 2020 • 1:12:26

Can I Sing My Way Through the Holidays? with Meghan Trainor

You know when you have a song stuck in your head and the only way you can get it out is to play it? Well, Jonathan has a similar feeling: he can’t shake the idea that he needs to sing a song. Like, literally, any song, preferably one with pleasing harmony. And he’s reaching out to the Grammy Award-winning artist Meghan Trainor for guidance. Meghan joins Jonathan to discuss singing and songwriting fundamentals, her musical influences, and her new holiday album A Very Trainor Christmas.

Dec 2, 2020 • 54:13

How Grateful Are We To Live Beyond The Gender Binary? with ALOK

This week on Getting Curious, we’re re-releasing an episode from June 2019 that we hold dear, with the performance artist and writer ALOK. ALOK and Jonathan discuss their experiences embracing life beyond the gender binary, the historical precedents for gender fluidity, and the power of “emotional alchemy” in the face of discrimination.   Follow ALOK on Instagram @alokvmenon, and make sure to check out their book Beyond The Gender Binary. You can keep up with all of their incredible wor

Nov 25, 2020 • 58:30

How Can We Get To Cloud Nine? with Professor Kristen Rasmussen

This week on Getting Curious, we’re getting the down low on what’s up in the sky with Professor Kristen Rasmussen, an Assistant Professor of Atmospheric Science at Colorado State University and an expert on clouds. She and Jonathan break down cloud types, extreme weather, and the lasting impact that the 1996 movie Twister had on both of their lives—and one of their careers.   You can keep up with Professor Rasmussen on Twitter @KRasmusWx, and follow her research group at Colorado State

Nov 18, 2020 • 1:12:51

Are We Imagining A Better Future Into Existence? with adrienne maree brown

Election Day is behind us, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more work ahead. Consider this week’s Getting Curious a chance to reflect and recharge, as Jonathan speaks with the writer, editor, activist, and social justice facilitator adrienne maree brown. The two discuss adrienne’s work around emergent strategy and pleasure activism, consider what authentic community engagement looks like, and explore how science fiction can be an invaluable resource for shaping a more equitable future.

Nov 11, 2020 • 1:19:28

Can Comedy Save Us All? with Samantha Bee

Look, we already know the answer to this question. But we can dream! We’re sending you into Election Day with an early release of this week’s Getting Curious, featuring a conversation with the iconic comedian, writer, and producer Samantha Bee. She and Jonathan talk political humor, the Golden Girls, Canadian health care, and so much more. Take a listen when you’re in line to vote, when you need a break from refreshing last-minute polling numbers, or on the other side of Election Day—wh

Nov 2, 2020 • 57:21

Is Deep Canvassing The Serum America Needs? with George Goehl

Are you phone banking, leafleting, and heading to the polls early this election season and still feeling like you need a boost? Then it might be time to introduce deep canvassing to your routine. The activist, community organizer, and director of People’s Action George Goehl joins Jonathan to share this go-to practice for building a more progressive nation—and explains why rural America needs to be central to any discussion of the electorate. Follow George on Twitter @GeorgeGoehl, and P

Oct 28, 2020 • 45:59

Why Are Domestic Workers’ Rights Essential? with Alicia Garza

There are more than 2.5 million care workers, nannies, and house cleaners across the United States. They are skilled professionals. Their labor is essential. So are their rights. Alicia Garza, who is the Director of Strategy & Partnerships for the National Domestic Workers Alliance, joins Jonathan to discuss the history of domestic work in the United States, why domestic workers are some of the least protected, most vulnerable individuals—without access to health care, paid sick day

Oct 21, 2020 • 52:57

How Are Contemporary Native Americans Thriving? with Dr. Elizabeth Rule

On this week’s Getting Curious, Dr. Elizabeth Rule joins Jonathan to discuss contemporary Native American rights and representation. She and Jonathan cover reproductive justice, tribal sovereignty, and the incredible work that Dr. Rule is doing to illuminate the relationship between Native history and contemporary Native Americans’ experiences and realities.Dr. Rule is the Director of the AT&T Center for Indigenous Politics & Policy, an Assistant Professor of Professional Studies and Faculty in

Oct 14, 2020 • 54:34

Would I Have Been The Toast Of The Ancient Mediterranean? with Dr. Sarah E. Bond

Raise a glass (or an amphora!) to this week’s episode of Getting Curious, all about ancient Mediterranean drinking cultures. Associate Professor of History at the University of Iowa Dr. Sarah E. Bond speaks with Jonathan about ancient Egyptians who loved beer, ancient Greeks who sipped the night away at symposia, and ancient Romans who went bar hopping. There’s truly so much to imbibe here, and thankfully, knowledge pairs well with whatever you’re already drinking. Follow Dr. Bond on Tw

Oct 7, 2020 • 1:09:37

Would I Have Been The Toast of the Ancient Mediterranean? with Dr. Sarah E. Bond

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Oct 6, 2020 • 0:00

Are You Getting Every Word Of This? with Erin Brockovich

This week on Getting Curious, we’ve got numbers coming out of our ears. For instance: two. Two? Yeah. That’s how many times the clean water activist and consumer advocate Erin Brockovich has now appeared on the show. How about this for a number? One. That’s how many people it takes to start a movement advocating for safe drinking water. And we’re guessing zero is the amount of hesitation you’ll have before hitting play on this iconic conversation between Jonathan and Erin, all about wha

Sep 30, 2020 • 1:19:32

How Can I Be A Better Cat Parent? with Jackson Galaxy

This week on Getting Curious, we’re carrying ourselves with confidence, our heads are held high, and we’re comfortable in our environment—we’re feeling big time cat parent mojo! Jackson Galaxy, the cat behavior and wellness expert, host of Animal Planet’s My Cat From Hell, and co-creator of Jackson Galaxy’s Cat Camp joins Jonathan to talk all about cats. He shares how we can better understand and care for our favorite felines, what the deal is with “cat mojo,” and why cat rescue and TNR

Sep 23, 2020 • 1:16:14

Can A House Divided Stand? with Sec. Julián Castro

There are fewer than 50 days until the 2020 United States elections, and over at Getting Curious, we’re feeling a little… shaky. To lay the foundation for this final stretch of election season, Jonathan’s calling on an expert in strong leadership, intersectional policies, and enduring hope: Sec. Julián Castro. Sec. Castro has served as Mayor of San Antonio, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Obama, and a 2020 Presidential candidate. He just launched his new podca

Sep 16, 2020 • 1:05:56

How Can We Take Charge Of Our Lives? with Dr. Edith Eger

One of the lessons in Dr. Edith Eger’s latest book The Gift is that love equals time. And on this week’s Getting Curious, Dr. Eger is joining Jonathan for an hour of love, compassion, and life lessons. Dr. Eger is a bestselling author, psychologist, and Holocaust survivor. Her first book The Choice, released in 2018, details her story of courage and resilience as a survivor of Auschwitz. In her new book The Gift she shares some of her best advice for confronting life’s challenges and bu

Sep 9, 2020 • 58:44

Are Unions A Good Bargain? with Professor Rebecca Givan

In the lead-up to Labor Day, Getting Curious is working it! We're re-releasing an episode from 2018 with Rebecca Givan, an associate professor of Labor Studies and Employment Relations at Rutgers University, all about trade unions. She and Jonathan discuss what unions are, how they operate, and why collective bargaining can be such a powerful tool. Follow Professor Givan on Twitter @rkgwork. She’s also the co-editor of the forthcoming essay collection Strike for the Common Good, which f

Sep 2, 2020 • 46:32

Is Guaranteed Income America’s Next Top Model? with Mayor Michael Tubbs

Since Stockton, California, Mayor Michael Tubbs was elected in November 2016, he’s launched an innovative Guaranteed Income pilot program and created a runway for his city’s success. Mayor Tubbs joins Jonathan to discuss the program, how cities across the country are implementing similar initiatives, and why it’s so important for local governments to invest in their communities. Mayor Tubbs is the co-founder of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, and the subject of the new HBO documentary “

Aug 26, 2020 • 1:13:09

Why Do We Need A Green New Deal? with Senator Ed Markey

This week on Getting Curious, Jonathan is learning about the power of clean energy with a clean energy powerhouse: Massachusetts representative and co-author of the Green New Deal bill, Senator Ed Markey. Senator Markey explains what a Green New Deal can offer in the way of environmental protections, job opportunities, pandemic recovery, and more. Senator Markey is also running for re-election in the upcoming Massachusetts primary, and he and Jonathan discuss his four decades as a progr

Aug 19, 2020 • 52:21

What’s It Like To Live On The Edge? with Astronaut & Oceanographer Kathy Sullivan

Earth to listeners! This week’s Getting Curious is serving an adventure like no other, because Jonathan is talking with astronaut, oceanographer, and geologist Kathy Sullivan. She’s the first US woman to complete a spacewalk, the first woman to reach the deepest known point in the ocean, and the first person to travel to both space and deep sea. She tells Jonathan all about space tools, the Challenger Deep, and what it’s like to feel the force of gravity during a shuttle landing. Follow

Aug 12, 2020 • 1:12:27

Am I A Self-Karen? with Ashlee Marie Preston

Do you know where your donor dollars and time are actually going? Activist, thought leader, and founder of the social impact campaign YouAreEssential Ashlee Marie Preston joins Jonathan to discuss the trillion-dollar industry that is the US non-profit sector, the ways in which non-profit organizations can undercut to the aims of grassroots political movements, and how we can work to dismantle a system that doesn’t always serve the communities it claims to protect. Follow Ashlee Marie Preston on

Aug 5, 2020 • 1:19:32

Am I Your Favorite Non-Binary Gardener / Gymnast? with Aly Raisman

This episode is an All-Around winner, because Jonathan is talking with six-time Olympic medalist and captain of the Fierce Five and Final Five gymnastics teams, Aly Raisman. This isn’t a Level 10 conversation about gymnastics, gardening, and more—it’s certified Elite. Follow Aly on Instagram @alyraisman and Twitter @aly_raisman, and learn more about her book Fierce. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcri

Jul 29, 2020 • 1:12:24

How Can We Give the Theater World a Revival? with Audra McDonald

This week's Getting Curious is a show like no other, since Jonathan is joined by the iconic Tony, Grammy, and Emmy award winner Audra McDonald. She and Jonathan discuss the critical work she's doing as the co-founder of Black Theatre United, an organization that is advocating for equity in the theater world and the nation. They also discuss how theatergoers can continue to support the performing arts community, during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. (And stick around for the third act

Jul 22, 2020 • 1:11:42

How Can Progressives Stick The 2020 Election Landing? with Ben O’Keefe

The 2020 election season has been anything but routine. To coach us through all the ways we can help flip seats, add balance to any check on our democracy, and win big on election day, Jonathan is turning to political strategist Ben O'Keefe. Ben is a human rights activist, progressive strategist, and founder of the impact entertainment company Give A Damn. He is a former Senior Aide to Elizabeth Warren’s presidential campaign, and currently the Impact Producer on the forthcoming Untitle

Jul 15, 2020 • 59:05

Are We Hearing A Crescendo of Anti-Racism in Classical Music? with Dr. Kira Thurman and Ashleigh Gordon

This week on Getting Curious, Dr. Kira Thurman and Ashleigh Gordon join Jonathan to discuss the remarkable work of Black classical composers and musicians through history and today. Dr. Thurman is an assistant professor of History and Germanic Languages and Literatures at the University of Michigan. Ashleigh Gordon is the co-founder, Artistic and Executive Director, and violist of Castle of our Skins, a Boston-based concert and educational series devoted to celebrating Black Artistry through mu

Jul 8, 2020 • 1:05:25

Are Cicadas The Only Ones Having a Hawt Gurl Summer? with Dr. Jessica Ware

On this week’s Getting Curious, Jonathan is taking the creepy out of crawly with entomologist and evolutionary biologist Dr. Jessica Ware. We’re talking periodical cicadas, cockroaches, dragonflies, and more. Dr. Ware is a curator of Odonata and non-Holometabolous insect orders at the American Museum of Natural History, New York and a professor at the Richard Gilder Graduate School. She is also the VP-Elect of the Entomological Society of America, and the President of the Worldwide Drag

Jul 1, 2020 • 1:03:53

How Can We Shablam on Voter Suppression? with Stacey Abrams

Voting rights activist, author, lawyer, and politician Stacey Abrams joins Jonathan to discuss the history of voting rights in the United States, the current state of voter suppression, and how we can work towards fair voting and a robust civic engagement. Abrams served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2007 to 2017, and as minority leader from 2011 to 2017. In 2018, she became the first Black woman to run as a major-party gubernatorial nominee in the US. She is the founder o

Jun 24, 2020 • 49:32

Is Trump An Autocratic Basic B? with Masha Gessen

In Masha Gessen’s return to Getting Curious, the journalist and staff writer at The New Yorker speaks with Jonathan about their new book Surviving Autocracy. They discuss the ways in which Trump has consolidated power since his election, what the stakes are if he continues to trample American institutions, and what we can do to resist his autocratic ambitions. Follow Masha Gessen on Twitter @mashagessen, and learn more about Surviving Autocracy here. Find out what today’s guest and form

Jun 17, 2020 • 53:43

How Can Democrats Be Anti-Racist? with Alicia Garza

In this re-release of an episode first recorded in July 2019, Jonathan sits down with Alicia Garza, Co-founder of Black Lives Matter and Director of Strategy & Partnerships for National Domestic Workers Alliance, to discuss the origins of the Black Lives Matter movement, Alicia’s work with the Black Futures Lab, and how Democratic Party candidates, campaigns, and elected officials need to be—and can be—more accountable to Black constituents.Follow Alicia Garza on Twitter @aliciagarza and on Inst

Jun 10, 2020 • 1:00:55

How can District Attorneys help fight police brutality? with DA Rachael Rollins

Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins joins Jonathan to discuss the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and other victims of police violence; the deep roots of police brutality and systemic racism; and how District Attorneys can play a role in police reform. DA Rollins was elected to represent Boston, Chelsea, Winthrop, and Revere on a progressive platform in 2018, and is the first woman of color to serve as a DA in Massachusetts.   Follow DA Rollins on Twitte

Jun 3, 2020 • 55:33

What Was Poppin’ In Prehistoric America? with Dr. Julia Clarke

On this episode of Getting Curious, we’re digging deep with Dr. Julia Clarke, Wilson Professor of Paleontology at The University of Texas at Austin and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology. She and Jonathan get to the bottom of how Texas looked 250 million years ago, which dinosaurs roamed prehistoric America, and what Pangaea’s got to do with the age of dinosaurs. Follow Dr. Clarke on Twitter @jclarkepaleolab, and learn more about her work here. Find out what today’s guest and form

May 27, 2020 • 50:22

How Did You Become So F*#%!ng Fierce? with Christian Siriano

You're invited to a very special episode of Getting Curious, and the dress code is whatever makes you feel stunning! The guest of honor is the CFDA designer Christian Siriano, who launched his brand in 2008 and has since risen to the top of the fashion world, dressing icons like FLOTUS Michelle Obama, Billy Porter, and Lady Gaga. Christian joins Jonathan to discuss his groundbreaking designs, his commitment to body diversity and inclusive pricing, and the more than 25,000 masks he and h

May 20, 2020 • 53:53

When Did We Start To Demonize Poverty? with Mary O'Hara

Journalist and author Mary O'Hara returns to Getting Curious to discuss her reporting on poverty, her new book The Shame Game: Overturning the Toxic Poverty Narrative, and her work reimagining how we talk about poverty with Project Twist-It. She and Jonathan discuss her own experience of childhood poverty, common misconceptions around poverty in the United States and the United Kingdom, and how we can start to see social services as springboards for success. You can find Mary O’Hara’s w

May 13, 2020 • 48:30

How Can We Stop Being Such Grumpy Nightmares? with Dr. Laurie Santos

Queen, did you know that there was a literal doctor teaching a class on happiness at literally Yale?! Dr. Laurie Santos, a professor of psychology at Yale University and the host of The Happiness Lab podcast, gives Jonathan a redux version of her iconic Yale course about the science of happiness and shares tips for boosting our spirits even when we're not near the people and places that usually bring us joy. It's time to get in touch with our vagus nerves! Follow Dr. Laurie Santos on Tw

May 6, 2020 • 53:41

What Happened After WW2? with Professor Pascale R. Bos (Part Two)

Professor Pascale R. Bos joins Jonathan to discuss the Holocaust and WW2. In part two of their conversation, Jonathan and Dr. Bos explore how the US became involved in the war, the Berlin Wall, and why it's so important to learn from history. Pascale R. Bos is an Associate Professor of Germanic Studies, Netherlandic Studies, and Comparative Literature at The University of Texas, Austin. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @Cur

Apr 29, 2020 • 42:12

Do We Understand How The Holocaust Happened? with Professor Pascale R. Bos (Part One)

Professor Pascale R. Bos joins Jonathan to discuss the Holocaust and WW2. In part one of our first ever two-part episode, Jonathan and Professor Bos discuss how the term Holocaust came to be, the alarming statistics reflecting a surprising number of people who’ve never heard of the Holocaust, and examine how Hitler came into power. Tune in to next week’s episode for the conclusion of their incredible conversation. Pascale R. Bos is an Associate Professor of Germanic Studies, Netherlandi

Apr 22, 2020 • 45:36

How Do We Stay Healthy in the Age of Coronavirus? With Dr. Saralyn Mark, MD

Dr. Mark served as the Senior Policy Advisor to the White House Office of Science and Technology during the Obama administration working on the Ebola outbreak in 2014. At the Department of Health and Human Services and NASA, she was the first Senior Medical Advisor to the Office on Women’s Health.   She joined Jonathan remotely to answer his questions on how coronavirus spreads, steps we can take to improve our immune system, and the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) for es

Apr 15, 2020 • 57:05

How Funny Are You, Queen?! with Mawaan Rizwan

Comedian Mawaan Rizwan got his start creating YouTube sketches that turned his mother into a Bollywood Star. Now, as an established writer and actor, he has written for Netflix’s “Sex Education” and can be seen in the upcoming “Two Weeks to Live” on Sky. In the fall of 2019, he joined Jonathan on their Road to Beijing tour opening in sold-out theaters across the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. On a tour stop in Brisbane, Jonathan and Mawaan sat down to discuss his family’s immi

Apr 8, 2020 • 51:07

What Happened To The Racist F***ing A**hole Dick Officials Of The Confederacy After The Civil War? with Professor Robert Icenhauer-Ramirez

Lawyer, historian, and author Robert Icenhauer-Ramirez sits down with Jonathan to discuss the Civil War and its aftermath, including what happened to confederate officials, the process of abolishing slavery, Lincoln’s presidency, and much more. Professor Icenhauer-Ramirez's book “Treason on Trial: United States v. Jefferson Davis” exposes the legality behind why no one was held accountable for starting the Civil War. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following u

Apr 1, 2020 • 1:08:40

Do We Know Enough About Queer History? With Matthew Riemer & Leighton Brown

Matthew Riemer & Leighton Brown are the co-creators of the Instagram @LGBT_History, and co-authors of the book “We Are Everywhere.” Both use powerful images of love, protest, inclusivity, and stories, to spotlight movements and people throughout Queer history. They joined Jonathan to discuss why they started these projects, the importance of visibility to avoid erasure and share some interesting stories about important figures from the past! Follow Matthew and Leighton on Instagram

Mar 25, 2020 • 1:02:46

Do We Know Enough About Queer History? With Matthew Riemer & Leighton Brown

Matthew Riemer & Leighton Brown are the co-creators of the Instagram @LGBT_History, and co-authors of the book “We Are Everywhere.” Both use powerful images of love, protest, inclusivity, and stories, to spotlight movements and people throughout Queer history. They joined Jonathan to discuss why they started these projects, the importance of visibility to avoid erasure and share some interesting stories about important figures from the past!   Follow Matthew and Leighton on Instagram a

Mar 25, 2020 • 57:31

Is Our Economy Going to Survive This Pandemic? With Bradley M. Gold

Attorney and Professor of Business Law and Ethics at the University of Texas - McCombs School of Business, Bradley M. Gold joins Jonathan to discuss the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our economy.  With his background in lecturing, counseling, negotiating for several high profile companies, and his unwavering passion for spreading the power of entrepreneurship, he informs Jonathan why we need to be creative and work hard to get through these unprecedented times. To find out more abou

Mar 18, 2020 • 55:33

What Is Ableism and How Does It Affect Your Life? with Carson Tueller

Carson Tueller is an LGBTQ+ and Disability Advocate. His life changed in 2013 when an accident left him paralyzed. Through his journey, he’s brought to light many issues the Disabled community faces including shame, how to talk about sexuality and human worth. He joined Jonathan to explain what ableism is, how he came out to his family after serving his LDS mission, and why investing in accessibility is great for everyone if anyone plans on getting older! Follow Carson’s journey on Twitter and

Mar 11, 2020 • 56:13

How Are You Rescuing The Animals In Australia? with Tanya Dominguez

Tanya Dominguez is a Lead Inspector and Senior Manager for the RSPCA NSW in Sydney Australia. She’s provided care to wild and domestic animals for over 21 years and has always been passionate about animal care education. She joined Jonathan backstage at their last comedy show in Australia to discuss what she does as an RSPCA Inspector, how the wildlife is doing since the bushfires started, and why it’s so important to adopt, not shop! Follow RSPCA and Tanya on Twitter and Instagram @RSP

Mar 4, 2020 • 58:09

How Do Firefighters Fight Bushfires? with Fiona Macken

CONTENT WARNING: This conversation contains details about scenes that emergency first responders encounter, including car accidents, suicide, house fires, and bushfires.Fiona Macken is a volunteer firefighter with the Country Fire Authority and 3rd Lieutenant of the Diamond Creek Fire Brigade. In 2009, she was deployed during the Black Saturday Bushfires, which are considered Australia’s most devastating fires to date.She’s witnessed the lasting impact these catastrophes have on survivors and fi

Feb 26, 2020 • 45:11

How Do the Legacies Of Slavery And Jim Crow Laws Still Affect Americans Today? with Deborah N. Archer

Professor Deborah N. Archer sits down with Jonathan to explore what it was like to be a Black American before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and how remnants of Jim Crow laws continue to plague our country. Professor Archer is an Associate Professor of Clinical Law at NYU, Co-Faculty Director of the Center on Race, Inequality, and the Law, and Director of the Civil Rights Clinic at NYU School of Law. She received her JD from Yale Law School, where she was also awarded the Charles G. Albom

Feb 19, 2020 • 56:00

What's The Difference Between The Gender Pay Gap And The Wealth Gap? with Sallie Krawcheck

Sallie Krawcheck is the CEO and Co-Founder of Ellevest, a company working to help close the gender pay gap by “redefining investing for women.” She joined Jonathan in the studio to discuss the gender, wealth, and race pay gaps women and people of color face in today’s financial world and why it's so important to intentionally invest. Follow Sallie on Instagram @Sallie.Krawcheck or @Ellevest and on Twitter @SallieKrawcheck. To find out more about Sallie’s work, visit www.ellevest.com. Fi

Feb 12, 2020 • 53:40

What’s It Like To Be A Booked And Busy Irish Queen? with Nicola Coughlan

Actress Nicola Coughlan joins Jonathan in London to talk about growing up in Ireland, life after attending drama school, and an exciting new project with Shonda Rhimes! Follow Nicola on Instagram and Twitter @nicolacoughlan, and watch her in Derry Girls, streaming now on Netflix. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious mer

Feb 5, 2020 • 55:35

How Do You Do An Inward 2 ½ Twist Off A 10 Meter Diving Board And Not Shit Your Pants? with Tom Daley

Tom Daley began diving at a very young age, gaining notoriety at nine years old. In 2008, at 14, he represented Great Britain as their youngest competitor in the Beijing Summer Olympics. He went on to compete in the 2012 London and 2016 Rio games picking up 2 bronze medals along the way. He invited Jonathan into his home to discuss all things diving, his husband Dustin Lance Black and their baby boy Robbie (who makes a tiny cameo) and the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympics! Follow Tom on Inst

Jan 29, 2020 • 55:42

How Do Plants Get Their Freak On? with Dr. Alex Monro

Dr. Alex Monro is a botanist and research leader at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in the Americas Team of the Identification and Naming Department. After watching The Jungle Book at a young age, he became fascinated with tropical forests and has spent the last 20 years working as a taxonomist, systematist, and field botanist. Jonathan joined Dr. Monro in his office at the Royal Botanic Gardens to discuss the Millennium Seed Bank Project, stinging nettles, and all the different ways pla

Jan 22, 2020 • 55:31

What's A Filibuster? with Wendy Davis

Wendy Davis came into the spotlight in 2013 when she took to the Texas Senate floor to perform a 13-hour filibuster to block a bill that would severely impact abortion rights. She received her degree from Harvard and practiced law for several years before becoming Texas’s State Senator from 2009 to 2015. She is also the founder of Deeds Not Words, a non-profit organization that focuses on engaging young women in politics. She and Jonathan sat down backstage in Austin Texas while on the

Jan 15, 2020 • 1:00:26

How Is The Amazon Rainforest Doing? with Dr. M. Sanjayan

Dr. M. Sanjayan is the CEO of Conservation International, and formerly the lead scientist at The Nature Conservancy. He joined Jonathan in the studio to discuss his work with the Amazon Sustainable Landscapes Project, which aims to restore 73 million trees in Brazil by 2023—and explore how saving nature is actually about saving humanity. Dr. Sanjayan is a recipient of UCSC’s Global Oceans Hero Award, a member of National Geographic Society’s Explorers Council, and a Disneynature Ambassa

Jan 8, 2020 • 46:32

What Does Inequality Have To Do With HIV? with Dr. Celeste Watkins-Hayes

In the fall of 2019, Jonathan released his book “Over The Top,” where he disclosed his HIV positive status. The occasion prompted Dr. Watkins-Hayes to write an op-ed on the subject in the NY Times, and inspired the two of them to get together to discuss issues they are both passionate about.Dr. Celeste Watkins-Hayes is a Professor of Sociology and African American Studies and Faculty Fellow at Northwestern University. Her first book is “The New Welfare Bureaucrats: Entanglements of Race, Class,

Jan 1, 2020 • 1:04:01

What's the Difference Between Sunni And Shia And Why Don't They Love Each Other? with Dr. James L. Gelvin

In December of 2015, Dr. James L. Gelvin joined Jonathan in the studio to discuss the relationship between Shia and Sunni Islam and to record the very first episode of Getting Curious...the rest is history! Dr. James L. Gelvin is a Professor of Islamic Studies at UCLA. He holds his B.A. and M.A. from Columbia University and his Ph.D. from Harvard. He’s also taught at Harvard, Boston College and MIT. His most recent book is titled “The New Middle East: What Everyone Needs to Know” where

Dec 25, 2019 • 42:34

How Can We Get In This Fight? with Senator Elizabeth Warren

Senator Elizabeth Warren was a professor of law for over 30 years at several esteemed universities including Harvard. In 2015 she became the first female Senator elected from Massachusetts and continued her fight for financial justice within the system. During her campaign for president of the United States in 2020, she sat down with Jonathan and they talked about her childhood, her ongoing campaign, and solutions to big government problems. Follow Senator Elizabeth Warren on Instagram

Dec 18, 2019 • 52:13

How Did You Create The Internal Family Systems Model And How Does It Work? with Dr. Richard Schwartz

CONTENT WARNING: This conversation contains details about addiction, eating disorders and mental health disorders. Dr. Richard Schwartz earned his PH.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Purdue University. He is the founder of The Internal Family Systems Model or “parts” therapy and coauthor of Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods, one of the most widely used family therapy texts in the United States. Together, they discuss how Richard got into psychotherapy, the creation of IFS and h

Dec 11, 2019 • 49:41

What's Geoengineering And Could It Possibly Help Save The World? with Dr. Shuchi Talati

Dr. Shuchi Talati is a geoengineering governance fellow at the Union of Concerned Scientists, a non-profit organization founded 50 years ago by faculty and students from MIT. Upon a chance meeting at the U.S. Capitol, she explained to Jonathan the importance of our votes when it comes to combating climate change. With so much more to discuss, she joins Jonathan to talk about how she got into her field of work, geoengineering, the effects of climate change in the weather and much more! F

Dec 4, 2019 • 48:02

How Are Turtles Doing These Days And Are They The Same Thing As Tortoises? with Dr. Charles J. Innis

Dr. Charles J. Innis is the Director of Animal Health at the New England Aquarium and co-editor and author of “Sea Turtle Health and Rehabilitation,” which covers sea turtle husbandry, medicine, and surgery. He joined Jonathan in the studio to discuss the difference between land and sea turtles, how turtles have sex, the illegal wildlife trade, and how conservation is the key to the survival of aquariums and zoos. For more information and conservation resources, visit Turtle Survival Al

Nov 27, 2019 • 48:37

Are You My Tanny Bananny? with Tan France

Tan France is the host of Netflix’s upcoming show Next in Fashion and Dressing Funny on Netflix is a Joke and co-host of Queer Eye. He sits down with Jonathan in a mysterious location (on set) to discuss life since Queer Eye, the beauty industry, and learning to not just love but advocate for the beautiful color of his skin! Follow Tan France on Instagram and Twitter @tanfrance and check out his side project on Instagram @shaded. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to b

Nov 20, 2019 • 56:07

Is Our Reliance On Technology Turning Our Brains Into Mush? with Dr. Doreen Dodgen-Magee

Dr. Doreen Dodgen-Magee is a psychologist, speaker, and the award-winning author of “Deviced! Balancing Life and Technology in a Digital World.” She joins Jonathan to discuss how reliant on technology we are, and the mental, emotional, and cultural ways this dependence is affecting our lives. Follow Dr. Dodgen-Magee on Instagram and Twitter @drdoreendm, and at www.doreendm.com. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJ

Nov 13, 2019 • 58:59

Why Isn’t Terrorism Defined Equally in the United States? with Dr. Erroll Southers

Dr. Erroll Southers joins Jonathan to discuss the threat domestic terrorism, how that term is applied on a federal level, and how to survive a mass shooting situation. Dr. Southers is a recipient of the Earl Warren Outstanding Public Service Award and author of Homegrown Violent Extremism, a book investigating radicalization, recruitment and ideological trends in domestic terrorism and extremism. Dr. Southers is the Director of the Safe Communities Institute and Homegrown Violent Extrem

Oct 30, 2019 • 55:20

How Did You Win Great British Bake Off? with Nancy Birtwhistle

Jonathan is joined by Nancy Birtwhistle, winner of Great British Bake Off Series 5. The two discuss all things Great British Bake Off and how she followed the recipe of her heart to become an international baking icon.Follow Nancy on Twitter @nancybbakes, Instagram @nancy.birtwhistle, and Facebook @nancybirtwhistle. Her website is www.nancybirtwhistle.co.uk/.Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN.Transcripts for each episo

Oct 23, 2019 • 56:10

How Did Family Separation Affect Your Life? with Diane Guerrero

Actor, activist, and author Diane Guerrero joins Jonathan to blow their mind and open our eyes to something many Americans have experienced but isn't talked about enough.Diane is an outspoken advocate for commonsense, comprehensive immigration reform and has worked with Immigrant Legal Resource Center and Mi Familia Vota, a nonpartisan Latino civic engagement organization to promote citizenship and voter registration.Follow Diane on Twitter @dianeguerrero__, Instagram @dianexguerrero, and Facebo

Oct 16, 2019 • 59:17

Why Hasn’t Congress Changed Cosmetics Regulations In Over 80 Years? with Tara Foley

Tara Foley is the founder of Follain, the first retailer to sell clean beauty exclusively. Tara sits down with Jonathan to discuss the power of taking care of their bodies with non-toxic products, outdated regulations on cosmetics and what "clean beauty" really means. Follow Tara on Instagram and Twitter @tcofoley. Follain is on Instagram and Twitter @follain, and on Facebook @shopfollain. Their website is https://follain.com. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by f

Oct 9, 2019 • 49:05

Is There An Insulin Crisis Happening in the US? with Elizabeth Pfiester

Elizabeth Pfiester is the founder and director of T1International, a non-profit run by people with and impacted by type 1 diabetes that does not take funding from the pharmaceutical industry. Elizabeth discusses what it’s like living with the disorder, her work fighting to put an end to the current crisis surrounding insulin prices, and why where you were born should not determine whether you live or die with diabetes. Follow T1International on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @t1intern

Oct 2, 2019 • 50:05

What Does Planned Parenthood Do To Keep Us Safe? with Alexis McGill Johnson

Planned Parenthood's Alexis McGill Johnson joins Jonathan to discuss the current state of reproductive rights, the politics of health care, and just, what is her day even like? You can follow Alexis McGill Johnson on Instagram @alexismjpp and Twitter @alexismcgill. Planned Parenthood is on Instagram @plannedparenthood and Twitter @PPFA. For more information, head to www.plannedparenthood.org. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitte

Sep 25, 2019 • 57:56

How Can We Twerk On Climate Change? with Bill Nye The Science Guy

Jonathan is joined by climate advocate, TV personality, and Science Guy Bill Nye. The two discuss an array of topics, including green algae, renewable energy, and how to make climate change a major talking point in the 2020 election. Follow Bill Nye on Instagram and Twitter @billnye and check out his podcast Science Rules! Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at Jonath

Sep 18, 2019 • 53:52

How Many Cats Am I Allowed To Foster Before It’s Illegal? with Hannah Shaw

Hannah Shaw is a kitten rescuer, humane educator, author, and unwavering animal advocate who has dedicated her life to finding innovative ways to protect animals. She sits down with Jonathan to discuss her new book “Tiny But Mighty” and perhaps the most important topic on the podcast to date — kittens! Find more from Hannah on Instagram and Twitter @kittenxlady. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts

Sep 11, 2019 • 57:09

Why Is The Census So Majorly F**king Important? with Ditas Katague

Ditas Katague is currently the Director of the California Complete Count Office for the State of California. Ditas and Jonathan sit down to discuss the importance of the census, what you need to know, and dispel myths about the population count. Ditas Katague is on Twitter @ditaskatague. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Cur

Sep 4, 2019 • 50:27

What Is Techno-Chauvinism And Are We Relying Too Much on Unconscious Biased Systems? with Meredith Broussard

NYU Associate Professor, data journalist, AI researcher, and author Meredith Broussard joins Jonathan to discuss her book “Artificial Unintelligence: How Computers Misunderstand the World," where she sheds light on how racism plays a part in the current state of AI. Follow Meredith Broussard on Twitter and Instagram @merbroussard. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available a

Aug 21, 2019 • 55:05

What Was Early America Like Around the Revolutionary War? with Dr. Jessica Roney

How did we come to be the United States of America? What was life like in Philadelphia and Boston leading up to the Revolutionary War? Jonathan sits down with Dr. Jessica Roney, Associate Professor of History at Temple University, to find out these answers and more. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.

Aug 14, 2019 • 58:13

How Has The US Disrupted Native American Food Sources? with Dr. Brittany Wenniserí:iostha Jock

Brittany Jock a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. Dr. Jock joins Jonathan to discuss her research, which combines epidemiology with social and behavioral science to respond to the obesity and chronic disease inequities experienced by Indigenous Nations and communities. Dr. Jock is on Twitter @Wenniseriiostha. Check out this interactive map of Indigenous lands: https://native-land.ca/. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on In

Aug 7, 2019 • 56:43

Is It Possible That I’m The Most Gorgeous Hypochondriac That Has Ever Lived? with Dr. Adam Ratner

Adam Ratner, MD, MPH is the Director of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital and New York University School of Medicine. Dr. Ratner and Jonathan sit down to discuss what germs are, how they make us sick, and if Jonathan should be cleaning all public spaces he comes in contact with with bleach wipes. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are

Jul 31, 2019 • 53:06

How Did You Learn To Write Pop Music? with Kim Petras

Singer-songwriter and incredible badass Kim Petras joins Jonathan to talk about her writing process and how her work is reshaping how people are listening to pop music. Follow Kim on Twitter and Instagram @kimpetras. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading ove

Jul 24, 2019 • 58:13

Can We Make It The Magnificent 8? with Shannon Miller

Jonathan does his best not to cry as he is joined by seven time olympic medalist, two-time gold medalist, and absolute icon Shannon Miller. The two discuss Shannon’s journey as a decorated gymnast, her battle with ovarian cancer, and how she is bringing a healthy lifestyle to the masses. You can follow Shannon on Twitter Follow Her on Twitter @shannonmiller96 and find more at https://shannonmiller.com/. For more information on Our Way Forward, visit https://www.ourwayforward.com Find ou

Jul 3, 2019 • 1:05:55

How Fierce Is Erin Brockovich? with Erin Brockovich

Erin Brockovich is an American legal clerk, consumer advocate, environmental activist who was instrumental in building a case against The Pacific Gas and Electric Company of California. She joins Jonathan to discuss toxic water, environmental advocacy, standing against injustice, and more. Follow Erin on Instagram @the_real_erin_brockovich and Twitter @ErinBrockovich. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transc

Jun 12, 2019 • 1:03:06

How Did You Get So Dope, Queen? with Phoebe Robinson

Phoebe Robinson is a comedian, writer, podcaster, and ½ of Two Dope Queens. She joins Jonathan to breakdown their theories on Game of Thrones, the creation of Two Dope Queens, Phoebe’s early days in New York, the need for non-white and non-male voices in comedy, and more. You can find more at about Phoebe at www.phoeberobinson.com. Follow Her on Twitter and Instagram @dopequeenpheebs. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @Curio

May 29, 2019 • 53:43

Would You Make Over The US Constitution? with Heidi Schreck

Playwright, actor, and two-time Tony Award nominee Heidi Schreck joins Jonathan to discuss her play “What the Constitution Means to Me,” in which she breathes new life into our Constitution and imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans. Heidi is on Twitter @heidibschreck, and you can find out more about her work at constitutionbroadway.com. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for

May 22, 2019 • 47:22

Should I Be Terrified Of Snakes… And What Are They Going Through These Days, Anyway? with Dr. Sara Ruane

Dr. Sara Ruane is a herpetologist and assistant professor at Rutgers University - Newark who joins Jonathan to breakdown all things snakes! She covers their environmental benefits, the differences between constrictors and venomous snakes, and more. Dr. Ruane is on Twitter @sara_and_snakes. Her website is https://sararuane.com/. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at J

May 15, 2019 • 1:00:29

How Did Period Awareness Earn You An Oscar? with Rayka Zehtabchi

Rayka Zehtabchi is an award-winning Iranian-American film director. Her film Period: End of Sentence won the 2019 Oscar for Documentary Short. Rayka joins Jonathan to talk about the filmmaking process, how the production of Period: End of Sentence came about, connecting with the film’s subjects, her history with directing, and more. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available

May 1, 2019 • 52:53

What The Heck Is EMILY’s List, Anyway? with Stephanie Schriock

Stephanie Schriock is an American political strategist and president of EMILY's List, the nation’s largest organization for women in politics. She joins Jonathan to talk the formation of EMILY’s list, the importance of women in politics, the upcoming census, the 2020 election, and more. Stephanie is on Twitter @shriock1. EMILY's List is on Twitter @emilyslist, on Instagram @emilys_list, and at https://www.emilyslist.org. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by followi

Apr 24, 2019 • 50:19

Who Gave You Permission to Create Queer Eye, David Collins?

David Collins is a three-time Emmy Award winning producer and is the creator and Executive Producer of Queer Eye. He joins Jonathan to talk the inspiration of the original Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, how that lead to the creation of the current iteration, the selection process of the Fab Five, his own relationship with queerness, and more. You can find more at David’s website scoutproductionsinc.com. Follow David on Instagram @styletasteandclass. Find out what today’s guest and form

Apr 17, 2019 • 49:49

What Do District Attorneys Do? with District Attorney Rachael Rollins

Rachael Rollins is the first woman of color to be elected as a district attorney in Massachusetts. She joins Jonathan to discuss what the day-to-day life of a DA looks like, the struggles transition team faced , strengthening community bonds, her new approaches to officer involved shootings, and more.You can find more of DA Rollins' work on Twitter @DARollins and Instagram @rollins4da.Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN

Apr 10, 2019 • 50:12

What Is The Tea With Vaccines, Hunty? with Dr. Nina Shapiro

Dr. Nina Shapiro is the Director of Pediatric Otolaryngology and a Professor of Head and Neck Surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. She joins Jonathan to discuss the history and importance of vaccinations, how vaccines work, good science versus bad science, thoughts from her new book, and more.You can find more of Dr. Shapiro’s work at http://drninashapiro.com. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook @drninashapiro. Make sure to check out her book A Doctor's Guide to Medical Myths,

Apr 3, 2019 • 49:15

How Do We Find Our Voice? with Tammy Baldwin

Tammy Baldwin is the Junior US Senator from Wisconsin & was the first openly gay woman to be elected to Congress. She joins Jonathan to talk about her involvement in American politics; being the first openly gay Senator; the power of representation in government; how to have an active role in local, state, federal government; and more. Find Senator Baldwin’s work at https://www.baldwin.senate.gov and she’s on Twitter @SenatorBaldwin. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are

Mar 13, 2019 • 58:21

How Do You Know If Your Bae Is The One? with Dr. Stan Tatkin

Dr. Stan Tatkin is author of the new book We Do, and he returns to talk with Jonathan about relationships, couples therapy, what goes into forming a functional relationship, the physical effects of a bad relationship, determining happiness, stress, and more. Find Dr. Tatkin’s work at https://stantatkin.com. He’s on Twitter and Facebook @DrStanTatkin and Instagram @StanTatkin. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN

Mar 6, 2019 • 42:25

What Is Toxic Stress and Why Is She So Bad? with Dr. Caroline Leaf

Dr. Caroline Leaf is a cognitive neuroscientist with a PhD in Communication Pathology and a BSc in Logopedics and Audiology, specializing in metacognitive and cognitive neuropsychology. She joins Jonathan to discuss how negative interactions can affect a person, optimism bias and our neurologically need for it, why we remember bad experiences instead of the good ones, and more. You can learn more about Dr. Leaf’s work at https://drleaf.com/. She’s on Twitter and Instagram @DrCarolineLea

Feb 27, 2019 • 1:01:28

Have We Lost the Capacity To Be Civil? with Sally Kohn

Sally Kohn is a liberal political commentator, writer, community organizer, as well as a contributor to Fox News and CNN. She joins Jonathan to discuss her time being a liberal commentator on Fox News, the current political landscape, interacting with those with opposing political views, past presidential scandals and more. Find Sally Kohn’s website and her new book, The Opposite of Hate, here http://www.sallykohn.com. Sally is on Instragram and Twitter @sallykohn. Find out what today’s

Feb 6, 2019 • 48:27

How Do You Ignore Haters & Learn to Love Yourself? with Jameela Jamil

Jameela Jamil is an actress, activist, and host who joins Jonathan to talk about a wide array of topics, including how she landed the role of Tahani on The Good Place, the importance of loving yourself, dispelling shame, using her various platforms for good, the struggles marginalized people face, and more. Find Jameela on Instagram @jameelajamilofficial, and on Twitter @jameelajamil Check out the I Weigh site at https://www.iweighcommunity.com/ and on Instagram @i_weigh. Find out what

Jan 30, 2019 • 1:00:03

How Do We Treat Our Skin Like the Gorgeous Organ She Is? with Victoria Tsai

Victoria Tsai is the founder & CEO of skin care company Tatcha. She joins Jonathan to talk all things skin; starting a skincare company, how we can take care of our own skin, why it's important too, what skin is for, and more!Find VIctoria’s company Tatcha at https://www.tatcha.com. She’s on Instagram @vickytsai.Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN.Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com.Check o

Jan 23, 2019 • 46:51

How Can You Turn Marginalization Into Activism? with Noor Tagouri

Noor Tagouri is a Libyan-American journalist, activist, motivational speaker, producer, and host of the podcast series “Sold in America: Inside Our Nation's Sex Trade.” She sits down with Jonathan to discuss her activism, the realities of Muslim-Americans, the world of sex trafficking, and more. Noor is on Twitter @NTagouri and Instagram @Noor. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode a

Jan 16, 2019 • 57:44

How Do We Touch Untouchable Topics? with Jodi Picoult

Jodi Picoult is an American writer who currently has approximately 14 million copies of her books in print worldwide, translated into 34 languages. She joins Jonathan to talk the process of writing, what goes into being a successful author, tackling tough subjects, and more. Find Jodi’s work at https://www.jodipicoult.com. She’s on Twitter and Instagram @jodipicoult. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcr

Jan 9, 2019 • 49:42

What’s Really Going On With Recycling, Hunny? with Beth Porter

Beth Porter is Green America’s Climate & Recycling Director, as well as the author of "Reduce, Reuse, Reimagine: Sorting Out the Recycling System." She joins Jonathan to talk all things recycling: what is is, how it works, whether plastic straws are as dangerous we’ve been told, how oil prices affect recycled plastic demands, and more. Beth is on Twitter and Instagram @bethrecycles, and at www.bethrecycles.com. Her book "Reduce, Reuse, Reimagine: Sorting Out the Recycling System" is

Dec 19, 2018 • 46:43

What’s The Cutest Way To Fight Climate Change? with Anastasia Khoo

Anastasia Khoo is Chief Marketing Officer of Conservation International. She has led ground-breaking campaigns around critical moments in America’s history, including the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and the Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage. She joins Jonathan to recap her career working for the Human Rights Campaign, the struggle for LGBTQA rights, the impact climate change is currently having on the geopolitical landscape, ways to lessen our emission footprints,

Dec 12, 2018 • 52:22

How Do You Know When You’ve Made it in Music? with Bishop Briggs

Bishop Briggs is a British musician and singer-songwriter. She joins Jonathan to discuss how she broke onto the music scene, growing up in Asia, the importance of being an ally & using your voice for good, the need to “keep going” once you’ve become successful, utilizing your platform for good, and more. Find Bishop’s work at https://bishopbriggs.com. She’s on Twitter and Instagram @thatgirlbishop. Listen to her single “River” here. Listen to her single “Wild Horses” here. Find out what toda

Dec 5, 2018 • 45:44

What Do Trade Unions Actually Do? with Professor Rebecca Givan

Rebecca Givan is an Associate Professor of Labor Studies and Employment Relations at Rutgers University. She joins Jonathan to discuss the ins and outs of trade unions: what they are, how they work, why they’re needed, the benefits and protection they offer members, and much more. Professor Givan is on Twitter @rkgwork, and her website is www.rkgivan.com. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for eac

Nov 28, 2018 • 52:19

How Do We Know What Words Mean? with Dr. Jessica Rett

Dr. Jessica Rett is an Associate Professor in UCLA's Linguistics Department who joins Jonathan to discuss the power and nuances of words, breaks down the concepts of what "dog whistles" are, code-switching, how words evolve, endangered languages, and more. Find Jessica’s work at http://linguistics.ucla.edu/people/Rett/index.html. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at

Nov 21, 2018 • 43:41

What Is Medical Marijuana and How Does It Work? with Dr. Jeff Chen

Dr. Jeff Chen is the head of UCLA’s new Cannabis Research Initiative. He joins Jonathan to break down the numerous medicinal properties of THC, how it works, its effect on the mind and body, new cannabis research breakthroughs, marijuana laws, and more! Dr. Chen is on Instagram @drjeffchen. You can learn more about his work at www.uclahealth.org/cannabis/jeff-chen and www.uclahealth.org/cannabis. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Tw

Nov 14, 2018 • 49:06

What is Astronomy, Even? with NASA's Paul Geithner

Paul Geithner is the Deputy Project Manager — Technical for the James Webb Space Telescope at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Paul joins Jonathan to give him a crash course in what the electro-magnetic spectrum is, how space debris can effect space programs, the vastness of space, his work with the James Webb Space Telescope, and more. Learn more about Paul’s work at https://jwst.nasa.gov/meet-geithner.html. He’s on Twitter @paulgeithner. Find the James Webb S

Nov 7, 2018 • 56:21

What Are Emoluments? with Attorney General Karl Racine

Karl Racine is Attorney General for the District of Columbia - the only Attorney General in Trump’s backyard. He is the first elected AG in the District of Columbia, the co-chair of the Democratic Attorneys General Association, and the VP of the bipartisan National Association of Attorneys General. Attorney General Racine joins Jonathan to talk about corruption in government, his work to fight systemic child sexual abuse and protecting consumers. All this goes towards why November 6th’s midterm

Oct 31, 2018 • 52:38

How Do We Flip Red States Blue In The Midterms? with Gaby Goldstein

Gaby Goldstein is co-founder and Political Director of the Sister District Project, a grassroots organization of over 30,000 volunteers that supports Democratic candidates. She joins Jonathan to talk the importance of flipping red states blue, strategies to win legislative races, and more.Gaby Goldstein is on Twitter @gaby__goldstein. You can learn more about Sister District at https://sisterdistrict.com/. They're on Twitter and Instagram @Sister_District and on YouTube and Facebook at Sister Di

Oct 24, 2018 • 50:41

What’s it Like Being a Woman in NASCAR? w/ Julia Landauer

Julia Landauer is an American professional stock car driver who joins Jonathan to discuss being one of the few professional female drivers, the physical demands of driving, navigating a predominantly male dominated profession, her racing origins, how a pit crew works, and more.Find Julia’s work at https://julialandauer.com/. She’s on Twitter and Instagram @julialandauer.Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN.Transcripts fo

Oct 17, 2018 • 52:32

How Does Global Health Affect Everything? with Dr. Laura Ferguson

Dr. Laura Ferguson is an assistant professor of preventive medicine at the University of Southern California and the associate director of the Program on Global Health & Human Rights at the USC Institute for Global Health. She joins Jonathan to discuss the importance of global health and its impact on day-to-day life. Dr. Ferguson is on Twitter @lauraf_la. The USC Institute for Global Health is on Instagram @uscglobalhealth and online at www.globalhealth.usc.edu. Find out what today

Oct 10, 2018 • 44:12

What’s Parental Alienation? with Dr. Amy Baker

Dr. Amy Baker is a nationally recognized expert in parent-child relationships, parental alienation, and child emotional abuse who joins Jonathan to discuss the signs and causes of parental alienation, how it affects children, and how to avoid it. Find Dr. Amy Baker’s work at https://www.amyjlbaker.com. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check

Oct 3, 2018 • 46:08

How Could Virtual Reality Help Recover Memories? with Dr. Nanthia Suthana

Dr. Nanthia Suthana is a neuroscientist from UCLA who joins Jonathan to discuss memories, how the brain works, epilepsy, new breakthroughs in medical technologies, how virtual reality is used in therapy, and more. Find Dr. Suthana's work at http://neurosurgery.ucla.edu/nanthia-suthana. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curio

Sep 26, 2018 • 46:22

How Are You Bridging Social Media & Lady-Entrepreneurship? with Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon is an actress, producer, entrepreneur, and author of the newly released Whiskey in a Teacup, who joins Jonathan to talk British Baking Challenge, the work-life balance of social media, lady-entrepreneurship, the creation of Big Little Lies, the need to create better acting roles for all women, and more. Find Reese’s new book Whiskey in a Teacup at http://www.whiskeyinateacupbook.com/. She’s on Twitter @RWitherspoon and Instagram @reesewitherspoon. Find out what today’s

Sep 19, 2018 • 42:00

What's It Like Being A Fierce Woman in Comedy? with Nicole Byer & Erin Gibson

Nicole Byer is a comedian, writer, and host of Netflix’s Nailed It as well as the Why Won’t You Date Me? podcast. Erin Gibson is a comedian, director/writer, creator of Gay of Thrones and the host of Throwing Shade. They join Jonathan live in Montreal at the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival to talk Erin giving Jonathan his big break, being women in comedy & empowered content creators, Roseanne’s meltdown, and more. Find Nicole’s work at https://www.nicolebyerwastaken.com. She’s on Tw

Sep 12, 2018 • 56:20

What’s it Like Being the Voice of a Generation? with Michelle Wolf & Florence Welch

Michelle Wolf is a comedian & writer featured performer at the 2018 White House Correspondents’ Dinner and hosted The Break with Michelle Wolf. Florence Welch is an English musician, producer, singer/songwriter, and lead vocalist and primary songwriter of Florence & The Machine. They join Jonathan live at Outside Lands Festival to talk a variety subjects including reactions to Michelle’s Correspondents’ Dinner set and politicians not being able to take a joke, Florence’s approac

Sep 5, 2018 • 52:07

Why Are There So Many Questions? with Justin Theroux

Justin Theroux is an actor, producer, screenwriter, and director who joins Jonathan to talk about early days living and traveling in China, landing his first major acting role, his outlook on life, as well as a surprise Q&A session with Tan & Antoni. Recorded live at Vulture Fest. Find Justin’s work at https://www.achancetobloom.org/. He’s on Instagram @JustinTheroux. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN

Aug 29, 2018 • 1:02:17

Why Is Abstinence Still Being Used To Treat Addiction? with Dr. Adi Jaffe

Dr. Adi Jaffe is a specialist in mental health, addiction, and shame who has spoken at multiple TEDx events and has a doctorate in psychology from UCLA. He joins Jonathan to discuss addiction and alternative treatments, the negative consequences of shame, and how abstinence-based treatment is not the only method to recovery. Find Dr Adi Jaffe’s work on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @dradijaffe. Read more about Dr. Jaffe's book The Abstinence Myth at www.theabstinencemyth.com. Find ou

Aug 15, 2018 • 43:26

What Goes into a Song? with Hrishikesh Hirway

Hrishikesh Hirway is a musician & host of Song Exploder who joins with Jonathan to talk about about the many elements that go into creating a song, speaking with artists like Solange, Lorde, & Weezer about their creative process & what goes into their songwriting, as well as his own creative process. Find Hrishi Hirway on Twitter & Instagram @HrishiHirway & visit Song Exploder http://songexploder.net/ Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by followi

Aug 1, 2018 • 40:53

What's Your Origin Story? with Bobby Berk

Bobby Berk is an interior designer & fellow Queer Eye cast member who joins Jonathan to talk growing up closeted in the Midwest, emancipating himself from his parents as a teen, landing the role on Queer Eye, finding his way to New York City, and his love for interior design. Check out the Queer Eye cast's Glamour friendship test here. Find Bobby Berk on Twitter & Instagram @bobbyberk & visit his site https://www.bobbyberkhome.com/ Find out what today’s guest and former gues

Jul 25, 2018 • 40:04

How Does Traumatic Family Separation Affect Children? with Dr. Elizabeth Barnert

Dr. Elizabeth Barnert joins Jonathan to talk about the toxic effects that separating families can have on a child’s physical and mental state, the process of family reunification, and how to help child who have been impacted by family separation. Dr. Barnert is a pediatrician and an assistant professor of pediatrics at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital. Dr. Elizabeth Barnert is on Twitter @Liz_Barnert. You can find out more about her wor

Jul 18, 2018 • 41:28

Did Social Media Make Artists Need to be Business People Too? with Austyn Weiner

Austyn Weiner is a renowned photographer and artist extraordinaire who, at 28 years old, has worked with the likes of Cara Delevingne and Gigi Hadid and exhibited at Art Basel. Jonathan talks with this business woman and artist about her own artistic evolution, and the advice she’d offer to young female artists coming up behind her: commit 100%, share with those around you, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there… and don’t stop. Find Austyn’s work at AustynWeiner.com. She’s on Instag

Jul 11, 2018 • 36:05

How Can We Apply Ethics To Everyday Life? with Ryan Huber

Ryan Huber is an ethicists, PhD, and theologian who joins Jonathan to talk ethics, the life and death of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the rise of Adolf Hitler and Nazism in post-WWI Germany, and what we can learn from the past. Find Ryan Huber on Twitter @ryanmhuber or visit his site https://arcdigital.media. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check o

Jul 4, 2018 • 40:22

How Can We Cut Suicide Rates Among LGBTQ Youth? with Amit Paley

Amit Paley is the CEO of the Trevor Project and joins Jonathan to talk about the suicide rates among LGBTQ youth, destigmatizing the conversations around suicide & mental illness, and the importance of the work of The Trevor Project.Find Amit Paley’s work at TheTrevorProject.org and @TrevorProject on Twitter @amitpaley.The Trevor Lifeline - 1-866-488-7386National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 1-800-273-8255For more music from Quiñ head to TheQuinCat.com.Find out what today’s guest and former gue

Jun 27, 2018 • 38:28

Who Are You, Tan? with Tan France

Tan France is the fashion expert for Queer Eye and joins Jonathan to talk about growing up in Yorkshire, getting a Barbie collection from his dad, and when he realized he wanted to marry a boy. Plus, Tan discusses coming out to a religious household and how Queer Eye helped him find acceptance with his family. Check out more of Tan’s work at TanFrance.com. He tweets @tanfrance and you can follow him on Instagram @tanfrance. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by foll

Jun 18, 2018 • 36:19

British English And American English: What’s The Diff? with Helen Zaltzman

Helen Zaltzman hosts The Allusionist podcast and joins Jonathan to talk about the current and historical differences between British English and American English. It doesn’t take long for the conversation to spiral out to cover accents, manners, and how language can be used to shape our opinions and understanding of the news. Find Helen’s work at TheAllusionist.org. She's on Twitter @HelenZaltzman and has an Allusionist group on Facebook. Find out what today’s guest and former guests ar

Jun 13, 2018 • 37:22

Gender Bias in Film Scoring, What’s Her Story? with Jessica Rae Huber

Jessica Rae Huber is a film and television composer who has written music for projects such as The Walking Dead, Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Outlander, and Constantine. Jonathan talks with Jessica about how she got into film scoring, the process of adding music to a TV show, and the important Walking Dead death she saw before the rest of us. Plus he gets into the #MeToo side of scoring and what it’s like to be a woman in this male-dominated industry. Find Jessica Rae Huber’s work a

Jun 6, 2018 • 38:17

What's It Like To Be An Egg Donor? with Amy Throckmorton and Elizabeth Gaba

Nineteen years ago, Amy Throckmorton donated an egg. Eighteen years later, she was contacted out of the blue by Gaba, whose life she helped create. Amy and Gaba met, and discovered that Gaba is currently a singer in the SoCal Vocals, the acapella group that Amy was a member of at college. Jonathan had to talk to them and serve some Pitch Perfect realness. Amy Throckmorton is on Twitter @Hereinamyland. Gaba is @elizabethgaba. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by fol

May 23, 2018 • 35:44

Who Was the Beyoncé of Renaissance Art? with Professor Lisa Boutin Vitela

Lisa Boutin Vitela is Assistant Professor of Art History at Cerritos College. In Jonathan’s words, she’s “most professory about the gorgeous Renaissance,” so she comes by to talk about the Ninja Turtle artists (Raphael, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Leonardo Da Vinci), plus feminist art trailblazer Artemisia Gentileschi. Professor Boutin Vitela is on Twitter @LisaBoutin and Instagram @ProfVitela1474. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and

May 16, 2018 • 44:16

Who Gave You Permission to be So Cute? with Karamo Brown

Karamo Brown joins Jonathan to talk about his childhood, gay rights, school shootings, The Real World, make-up, self improvement, working for Oprah, and their shared experiences on Queer Eye. Find Karamo on Twitter and Instagram @KaramoBrown, and at his website KaramoBrown.com. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch

May 9, 2018 • 38:03

What’s it Like to Do a Triple Axel? with Mirai Nagasu

Mirai Nagasu was the first American female figure skater to land a triple axel at the Olympics, securing a bronze medal at PyeongChang 2018. Jonathan chokes back tears of love and joy to get deep into the technical, artistic and political aspects of figure skating. Plus, Mirai shares what it’s been like losing the skates to compete in Dancing with the Stars: Athletes. Find Mirai on Instagram at mirainagasu, on Twitter @mirai_nagasu, or at mirainagasu.com. Find out what today’s guest and

Apr 30, 2018 • 57:25

How Can We Be Less Rude To Bees? with Professor James Nieh

Professor James Nieh answers Jonathan’s questions about the diseases that are killing off our bees, explains the role bees play in bringing us almonds, and outlines the hierarchies and communication processes going on in hives all over the world. Professor Nieh works out of UC San Diego, researching how natural and man-made stressors affect the biology and behavior of bees. Find out more about Professor Nieh’s work by visiting the Nieh Lab website and following him on Twitter @jnieh1. F

Apr 18, 2018 • 38:52

What Makes A Cult A Cult? with Dr. Natalie Feinblatt

Dr Natalie Feinblatt explains the four criteria an organization needs to meet to be called a cult and looks at how the term can be used and misused in relationship to religions and rehabilitation programs. Plus, Jonathan asks about murder porn cults and Wild Wild Country, because that’s what the podcast charts like, right? Find Dr. Natalie Feinblatt’s work at DrNatalieFeinblatt.com. She’s on Instagram @Dr_Natalie_F. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us

Apr 11, 2018 • 37:15

Where Are You From, Antoni? with Antoni Porowski

Queer Eye co-host Antoni Porowski joins Jonathan in a wintery New York studio to hang out, share stories from his childhood as a first generation Polish Canadian, and to compare the schooling systems he experienced in Montreal and West Virginia. Follow Antoni on Twitter and Instagram on @antoni. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Get

Apr 4, 2018 • 34:27

Why’s the Bail System Such a Hot Mess? with Tim Molina

Tim Molina, Political Director at Courage Campaign, explains why he’s currently focusing on California bail reform and what exactly he's hoping to change. Tim’s on Twitter @TMMolina and Courage Campaign is on Twitter @CourageCampaign.Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN.Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com.Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com.Listen to more music from Quiñ by headin

Mar 22, 2018 • 28:34

Why Does It Hurt So Bad? with Professor Catherine Cahill

Catherine Cahill is an opioid neuropharmacologist and a professor in UCLA’s Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Studies, specializing in chronic pain. In honor of Valentine’s Day, Jonathan asks Professor Cahill why we experience pain, what makes chronic pain so different and what we can do to treat it. You can find out more about Professor Cahill’s work at UCLA or follow her on Twitter @PainLabQ. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram

Feb 14, 2018 • 37:22

What Do White People Need to Know About Racism? with Andrew Ti

Andrew Ti, host of the podcast Yo, Is This Racist?, talks to Jonathan about how Trump’s America isn’t necessarily more racist than Obama’s, and about why we should be challenging ourselves and others on an ongoing basis. Check out Andrew Ti’s Yo, Is This Racist? blog and podcast. He’s on Twitter and Instagram @ANDREWTI. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanV

Jan 18, 2018 • 35:03

What's Up With The Opioid Crisis? with Dr. Chris Evans

Dr. Chris Evans talks with Jonathan about how people get addicted to opioids, why addiction is so hard to kick, and what we can do about this national crisis. Dr. Evans is Director of the Brain Research Institute at UCLA and the Hatos Centre for Neuropharmacology. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.co

Jan 4, 2018 • 38:41

What Was Jonathan Like As A Kid? with Jonathan's Mom, Mary Winters

Jonathan sits down with his mom, Mary Winters, to talk about the way media is changing, childhood costumes, and things you learn on podcasts. And were there ribbon sticks or not?! With Jonathan Van Ness and guest, Mary Winters. Edited by Stacey Molski. Produced by Christian Dueñas and Daniel Baruela for MaximumFun.org. You can find Jonathan on Twitter @TheGayOfThrones or follow him on his Instagram @GayOfThrones. You can join the Getting Curious Facebook group here, and you can follow us on Twit

Feb 22, 2017 • 23:11

What Are You Up To, Lizzo?

Jonathan sits down with singer, songwriter, recording artist extraordinaire Lizzo to talk about having her heart broken, getting an album named one of the Top 20 of 2016, who she's obsessed with, and how she defines a "bad bitch." You can find Lizzo on Instagram @LizzoBeEating, and on Twitter @Lizzo. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check ou

Jan 11, 2017 • 35:49

What The T Over At Marie Claire? with Wanyi Jiang

This week, Jonathan sits down with Wanyi Jiang, Design Director at Marie Claire. They talk about Wanyi's path to design, what 1990s TV drama is inspiring today's fashion, and the real problem with Millennials. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading over to Th

Nov 16, 2016 • 32:56

What's It Like Modeling In Today's Fashion Industry? with Denise Bidot

Jonathan sits down with model Denise Bidot to talk about the modeling industry, New York Fashion Week, and how to truly embrace your body, curves and all. Plus, Denise tells us how to deal with haters on the internet. Denise is on Twitter and Instagram @denisebidot. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com.

Sep 21, 2016 • 38:14

How Can We Navigate Dating And Love? with Dr. Stan Tatkin

Jonathan sits down with therapist and author Stan Tatkin to talk about how we can create meaningful and fulfilling relationships with other human beings. Plus, they discuss dating as a numbers game, the idea of soulmates, and Jonathan asks for love advice on behalf of his friends. Find Dr. Tatkin’s work at https://stantatkin.com. He’s on Twitter and Facebook @DrStanTatkin and Instagram @StanTatkin. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and

Sep 7, 2016 • 40:14

Mass Extinction: What's Her Story? with Dr. Leryn Gorlitsky

Jonathan sits down with evolutionary biologist Dr. Leryn Gorlitsky to discuss the many mass extinctions that have happened through Earth’s lifetime, why some species survive and why others die, and how humans are the primary cause of the ongoing mass extinction today. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwa

Aug 24, 2016 • 41:10

What's Going On In HIV Research? with Kayla McLaughlin

Jonathan sits down with Physician Assistant and PrEP Research Clinician Kayla McLaughlin to talk about what PrEP is, how far HIV research has gotten since the 1980s, and why HIV is so hard to cure. Plus, Kayla discusses the curious cases of the Mississippi Baby and the Berlin Patient. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curiou

Aug 10, 2016 • 39:43

What Is Gun Control And Everytown? with Andrei Berman and Taylor Maxwell

This week on Getting Curious, Jonathan is joined by Editorial Manager Andrei Berman and Deputy Press Secretary Taylor Maxwell of Everytown for Gun Safety to talk about the second amendment, the ins and outs of the NRA, and what we can do to help promote gun safety. Everytown is on Twitter @Everytown and at www.everytown.org. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at Jona

Jul 13, 2016 • 45:45

What Are Gravitational Waves And LIGO For Dummies? with Professor Alan Weinstein

Jonathan sits down with physics professor Alan Weinstein to discuss gravitational waves, Einstein's theory of relativity, and his work for LIGO. Plus, Jonathan and Alan try to imitate the sound of two black holes merging. It's delightful. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music fr

Jun 15, 2016 • 36:27

What is Gender Identity? with Ian Harvie

Jonathan is joined by comedian and actor Ian Harvie to talk about moving to Los Angeles, Transparent, and what it means to truly be comfortable with your gender identity. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading over to TheQuinCat.com. Jonathan is on Instagram

Apr 20, 2016 • 34:22

What Are Strokes? with Dr. Lina Nih

Jonathan sits down with Dr. Lina Nih to talk about what causes strokes, how to detect a possible stroke, and what medical researchers are doing to better treat stroke victims.Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN.Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com.Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com.Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading over to TheQuinCat.com.Jonathan is on Instagram and Twitt

Apr 5, 2016 • 26:45

What Constitutes An Eating Disorder?

Jonathan is joined by Ilona Varo, a marriage and family therapist intern specializing in eating disorders. Learn more about Ilona's work at www.ilonavaro.com. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading over to TheQuinCat.com. Jonathan is on Instagram and Twitter

Mar 23, 2016 • 36:04

What's It Like To Be A Comedic Legend? With Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho joins Jonathan to get curious about comedy, dogs, charity and cannabis. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading over to TheQuinCat.com. Jonathan is on Instagram and Twitter @JVN and @Jonathan.Vanness on Facebook. Learn more about your ad choices.

Mar 16, 2016 • 40:28

Who Were the Romanovs and What Happened to Them, Honey? with Brad Damaré

Jonathan is joined by Brad Damaré, Professor in the Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures at USC, to uncover the true story behind the 1997 animated film Anastasia. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading over to TheQuinCat.com. Jonathan is on Instagr

Mar 2, 2016 • 36:55

What's a Menstrual Cup? with Sullivan Oakley

Jonathan is joined by Sullivan Oakley to discuss menstrual cups, the stigma attached to periods, and helping women in poverty-stricken areas around the world. Find out what today’s guest and former guests are up to by following us on Instagram and Twitter @CuriousWithJVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Check out Getting Curious merch at PodSwag.com. Listen to more music from Quiñ by heading over to TheQuinCat.com. Jonathan is on Instagram and Twitter

Jan 20, 2016 • 35:34

Find Full Archive of Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness on Stitcher Premium

Find Full Archive of Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness on Stitcher Premium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 1, 2015 • 2:45