The Brainy Business | Understanding the Psychology of Why People Buy | Behavioral Economics

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes Eva van den Broek and Tim den Heijer, co-authors of the intriguing new book, The Housefly Effect. Join the conversation as they explore the fascinating concept of how small, seemingly insignificant factors can have a profound impact on behavior—much like the annoying buzz of a fly that suddenly demands your attention. Eva, a behavioral economist and founder of Behavioral Insights Netherlands, shares her expertise on applying behavioral science to improve public policy, while Tim, a creative strategist and founder of Brain Creatives, discusses the intersection of advertising and behavioral insights. Together, they explore the origins of their book and how it relates to everyday decision-making. In this episode: Discover the concept of the Housefly Effect and its implications for understanding human behavior. Learn about the famous fly in the urinal nudge and how small changes can lead to significant outcomes. Explore the importance of framing and how it can simplify complex information for better decision-making. Understand the impact of social proof and the dangers of negative messaging in marketing and public campaigns. Gain insights into the placebo effect and how perception can influence our experiences with products and brands. Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/479. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website: thebrainybusiness.com/learn-with-us/ Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites  Let’s connect: Send Us a Message: thebrainybusiness.com/contact/ Follow Melina on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melinapalmer/ The Brainy Business on Youtube: youtube.com/c/thebrainybusiness The Brainy Business on Instagram: instagram.com/thebrainybiz/

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Eric Johnson, a leading expert in choice architecture and behavioral decision-making. They explore the critical elements of choice and how the way options are presented can significantly influence decision outcomes. Eric, a faculty member at Columbia Business School and director of the Center for Decision Sciences, shares insights from his extensive research, including the implications of defaults, the paradox of choice, and the importance of framing in decision-making. Gain a deeper understanding of how small adjustments in choice architecture can lead to substantial changes in behavior, as illustrated by real-world examples such as organ donation rates and consumer preferences. Eric emphasizes the role of designers in shaping choices and the ethical considerations that come with this influence. In this episode: Discover the concept of choice architecture and its impact on decision-making. Learn about the importance of defaults and how they can drive behavior change. Explore the balance between offering too many choices and the potential for overwhelm. Understand how framing and priming can alter preferences and outcomes. Gain insights into the ethical responsibilities of choice designers. Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/478. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website: thebrainybusiness.com/learn-with-us/ Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites  Let’s connect: Send Us a Message: thebrainybusiness.com/contact/ Follow Melina on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melinapalmer/ The Brainy Business on Youtube: youtube.com/c/thebrainybusiness The Brainy Business on Instagram: instagram.com/thebrainybiz/

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer is joined by Dr. David Daniels, a Presidential Young Professor at NUS Business School, as they dive into groundbreaking research on the value of gender diversity in companies. David discusses his extensive work that quantifies the impact of workforce gender diversity on company performance, revealing that a mere 1% increase in gender diversity can lead to significant financial gains—up to $152 million for tech companies and $18.7 million for financial firms. The conversation explores the long-standing debate around the business case for diversity, addressing challenges in establishing causality and the importance of using innovative research designs to uncover real-world insights. David shares how his unique approach utilizes stock market reactions to diversity reports from major companies like Google and eBay, providing a fresh perspective on how investors perceive and value diversity. In this episode: Discover the financial implications of gender diversity in the workplace and how it affects company valuations. Learn about the challenges researchers face in establishing causality in diversity studies. Explore the differences in investor reactions to diversity reports from tech and financial companies. Understand the psychological factors influencing investor behavior regarding diversity. Gain insights into the evolving discourse around diversity and its implications for organizations today. Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/477. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website: thebrainybusiness.com/learn-with-us/ Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites  Let’s connect: Send Us a Message: thebrainybusiness.com/contact/ Follow Melina on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melinapalmer/ The Brainy Business on Youtube: youtube.com/c/thebrainybusiness The Brainy Business on Instagram: instagram.com/thebrainybiz/

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer dives into the essential topic of setting up experiments in your business. While many organizations may shy away from testing due to intimidation or lack of experience, Melina shares her top tips to make experimentation accessible and effective. Drawing from her own academic and professional journey, she emphasizes the importance of small, focused tests that can yield significant insights without overwhelming your resources. Listeners will learn how to design experiments that provide clear evidence of what works and what doesn't, moving beyond gut feelings to data-driven decisions. Melina discusses the value of keeping experiments narrow in scope, being thoughtful in your approach, and testing frequently to foster a culture of continuous improvement. In this episode: Understand the importance of experimentation in making informed business decisions. Learn how to keep your experiments small and focused for better results. Discover the significance of being thoughtful in your testing approach and planning. Explore various testing methods, including A/B testing, to optimize your marketing efforts. Gain insights into analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data from your experiments. Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/476. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website: thebrainybusiness.com/learn-with-us/ Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites  Let’s connect: Send Us a Message: thebrainybusiness.com/contact/ Follow Melina on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melinapalmer/ The Brainy Business on Youtube: youtube.com/c/thebrainybusiness The Brainy Business on Instagram: instagram.com/thebrainybiz/

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes Oliver Burkeman, author of the New York Times bestseller 4000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and the newly released Meditations for Mortals. Oliver shares his insights on embracing the finite nature of life and how recognizing our limitations can lead to a more fulfilling existence. Throughout the conversation, Oliver and Melina explore the themes of productivity, time management, and the pursuit of happiness. They discuss the importance of accepting our limitations, the power of making decisions, and the benefits of focusing on what truly matters. Oliver introduces his concept of "imperfectionism," encouraging listeners to take action without waiting for the perfect moment and to embrace the messiness of life. In this episode: Discover the concept of "imperfectionism" and how it can help you live a more fulfilling life. Learn about the four-week approach in Meditations for Mortals to embrace your limitations and focus on what counts. Understand the importance of making decisions and taking action in the face of life's finite nature. Explore the idea of letting things be easier than we expect and finding joy in everyday challenges. Gain insights into how to live a more authentic and meaningful life by embracing imperfection. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer dives into the psychology of setting and achieving goals. As the new year resolutions may start to fade, this episode offers a timely reminder and practical guidance to re-energize your goal-setting process. Originally aired in October 2019, the episode provides insights into setting "brainy goals" and the steps necessary to not only achieve but exceed them. Melina outlines three essential tips for setting and achieving brainy goals: defining and limiting your goals to three, breaking them down into small steps, and saying no to distractions. She emphasizes the importance of focus and prioritization, drawing on insights from Nir Eyal’s book, Indistractable, and Warren Buffett's goal-setting advice. Melina also shares personal anecdotes and strategies, including how she balances her professional ambitions with family time, to illustrate the application of these principles in real life. In this episode: Understand why limiting goals to three is crucial for success. Learn how to break down goals into actionable and tiny steps. Discover the importance of avoiding distractions and maintaining focus. Gain insights into using visualization and reminders to keep your goals top of mind. Explore the concept of traction versus distraction in achieving your objectives. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer is joined by Barry Conchie and Sarah Dalton, co-authors of The Five Talents that Really Matter. Barry and Sarah share their extensive research on leadership effectiveness, revealing the five key talents that drive extraordinary performance. Their work, based on studying over 58,000 executive leaders, aims to dispel the myths in leadership literature by focusing on traits that truly predict high performance. Barry and Sarah share the importance of talent assessment in the hiring process, emphasizing how innate talents are stable, resistant to change, and highly predictive of behavior. They discuss the challenges organizations face in selecting the right leaders and how their research can help reduce error rates in selection decisions. The conversation also highlights the significance of building diverse teams and moving beyond the concept of "cultural fit" to achieve high performance. In this episode: Discover the five talents that define exceptional leadership and how they impact organizational performance. Learn about the process of assessing talents and the importance of innate traits in predicting leadership success. Understand the pitfalls of relying on "chemistry" and "cultural fit" in hiring decisions. Explore the role of self-assessment and team dynamics in developing effective leadership. Gain insights into asking the right interview questions to identify high-performing candidates. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer is joined by Dr. Agnis Stibe, a renowned expert in behavioral economics and transformation design, to explore the concept of hyper performance. Agnis shares insights from his work, including his involvement with the innovative company, The Littery, which uses behavioral economics to turn litter into lottery tickets, and discusses the Stibe Method for achieving hyper performance by removing psychological obstacles to success. Melina and Agnis dive into the role of artificial intelligence and technology in enhancing human performance, emphasizing the importance of social proof and awareness in driving behavior change. They also discuss fascinating case studies, including how social influence can encourage punctuality in meetings and the impact of transparency in community efforts to reduce litter. In this episode: Discover how behavioral economics can transform everyday behaviors, like punctuality and waste management, through innovative solutions. Learn about the Stibe Method for hyper performance, focusing on removing psychological barriers rather than adding skills. Explore the integration of artificial intelligence with human psychology to achieve greater satisfaction and performance. Understand the power of social proof and transparency in driving collective behavior change. Gain insights into the future of technology and its role in enhancing human collaboration and performance. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer is joined by Ann Chow, the former CEO of AT&T Business, for an insightful discussion on what it means to "lead bigger" and how to incorporate inclusive leadership in today's evolving work environment. Ann, who made history as AT&T's first woman of color to hold the CEO position, shares her experiences and the lessons she learned throughout her 30-year career in telecommunications and technology. Ann delves into the importance of understanding the different aspects of one's identity and how they contribute to effective leadership. She emphasizes the need to go beyond the traditional understanding of work as merely a place to go, advocating instead for a more integrated approach that acknowledges work as an essential part of life. Ann also discusses the impact of the pandemic on how we view work and the crucial role of human connection in leadership. In this episode: Discover the concept of "leading bigger" and its significance in achieving greater performance and impact. Learn about the psychological and societal factors that lead us to "lead small" and how to overcome them. Understand the difference between inclusion and belonging and how they apply to both workforce and work. Explore the importance of aligning purpose, values, and performance in creating a culture of belonging. Gain insights into the evolving expectations of leadership in the post-pandemic world. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer explores the concept of vulnerability loops, exploring how this powerful tool can enhance trust and foster deeper connections within teams and organizations. Originally aired in October 2022, this refreshed episode highlights the importance of embracing vulnerability as a means to build genuine relationships, featuring insights from John Levy and other thought leaders. Melina discusses how vulnerability, often seen as a weakness, can actually be a superpower that encourages trust and openness, especially in leadership roles. Melina explains the five-step process that constitutes a vulnerability loop and how it can be applied in both personal and professional settings to create lasting bonds. With examples from her own experiences and practical advice on fostering vulnerability within teams, Melina offers listeners actionable strategies to implement this concept in their own lives. In this episode: Discover the five-step process of a vulnerability loop and how it builds trust. Learn why vulnerability is crucial for strong leadership and team dynamics. Explore practical ways to encourage vulnerability within your team without crossing boundaries. Understand how vulnerability precedes trust and how to foster it in professional settings. Gain insights into how asking the right questions can create meaningful connections. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer is joined by Bob Gerard, Learning Ingenuity lead at Accenture and co-host of the Learning Geeks podcast. They dive into the science of brain-friendly learning and explore how corporate training can be transformed from mundane to engaging. Bob, a seasoned veteran in the learning industry, shares insights on how Accenture is revolutionizing the way their people learn through innovative practices and durable learning principles. Bob discusses his journey and the importance of making learning relevant, engaging, and contextual. He highlights the eight principles of durable learning: relevance, contextuality, engagement, effortfulness, generation, social learning, spacing, and reflection. These principles are designed to ensure that learning experiences lead to behavior change and improved business results. In this episode: Discover how to transform corporate training into an engaging and effective experience. Learn about the eight principles of durable learning and how they can enhance retention and application. Understand the importance of reflection and how it can solidify learning. Explore the role of technology, including AI, in creating personalized learning experiences. Gain insights into the future of learning and development in the corporate world. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer revisits a fascinating conversation with Nate Andorsky, author of Decoding the Why. This refreshed episode dives into the intricate world of behavioral science and its application in technology and strategy for innovative companies and nonprofits. Nate, an entrepreneur with a keen interest in human decision-making, discusses how understanding psychological drivers can transform business strategies. Nate shares his journey into behavioral science, sparked by the influential book Nudge, and explains how his company, Creative Science, integrates these concepts into product design. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the "why" behind user behavior, beyond just the surface-level data, to create more effective and engaging digital experiences. In this episode: Discover the significance of focusing on specific behavioral problems to uncover the underlying "why." Learn how to utilize behavioral science principles like social norms and commitment devices in product design. Explore practical examples and case studies that illustrate the power of behavioral insights in driving user engagement. Understand the role of testing and iteration in refining strategies and enhancing user experience. Gain insights into the application of behavioral science in various sectors, including nonprofit, finance, health, and education technology. Visit this episode’s page for important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina’s Newsletter Brainy Bites on LinkedIn Let’s connect: Send Us a Message Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes Dr. Polly Kang, a postdoctoral scholar at INSEAD, to explore the fascinating "streak end rule" and its implications for motivation and job satisfaction. Polly's research delves into how feelings influence decisions in organizational settings, using advanced quantitative tools and vast data sets to uncover causal relationships. Polly shares insights from her study on a text-based crisis hotline, revealing how the order of tasks, rather than their difficulty alone, significantly impacts employee quitting rates. By strategically breaking up hard task streaks with easier tasks, organizations can reduce turnover by up to 22%. This episode provides practical strategies for managers to enhance job design and improve employee retention without financial incentives. In this episode: Discover the streak end rule and its impact on motivation and job satisfaction. Learn how to reduce employee turnover by reordering tasks. Understand the role of job design in creating a positive work experience. Explore practical applications of the streak end rule in various organizational contexts. Gain insights into leveraging employee input to optimize task assignments. Show Notes: 00:00:00 - Introduction Melina Palmer introduces Dr. Polly Kang and the topic of the streak end rule. 00:03:00 - Dr. Kang's Background Dr. Kang discusses her academic journey and research focus. 00:08:00 - The Streak End Rule Explanation of the streak end rule and its implications for employee motivation. 00:18:00 - Practical Applications Strategies for applying the streak end rule to reduce turnover. 00:28:00 - Role of Job Design Discussion on how job design can enhance employee satisfaction. 00:38:00 - Managerial Insights Tips for managers to optimize task assignments and improve team dynamics. 00:48:00 - Conclusion What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Connect with Polly: LinkedIn  Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: What Your Employees Need and Can't Tell You, by Melina Palmer Influence, by Robert Cialdini The Speed of Trust, by Stephen M.R. Covey Drive, by Daniel Pink How Minds Change, by David McRaney Top Recommended Next Episode: Fundamental Attribution Error (ep 268) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Change Management (ep 226) Confirmation Bias (ep 260) That’s not fair! (Inequity Aversion) (ep 224) Planning Fallacy (ep 346) Manuj Aggarwall Interview (ep 192) Other Important Links: Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter Time Article

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer explores the art of organizing your brain using behavioral economics principles. Feeling overwhelmed and scattered? You're not alone. Melina shares practical strategies to help streamline your mental processes, reduce stress, and boost productivity, drawing from behavioral economics insights. Originally aired in January 2020, this episode remains as relevant as ever, offering timeless advice on decluttering both your physical and digital spaces. In this episode: Discover the impact of clutter on decision-making and how it leads to poor choices. Learn about the "chocolate cake study" and its implications for understanding brain overload. Explore practical tips for decluttering your workspace and digital life to enhance focus. Gain insights into productivity tools like Gantt charts, Trello, and the snooze function in Gmail. Understand how to use the KonMari method and other organizational strategies for a more streamlined life. Show Notes: 00:00:00 - Introduction Melina Palmer introduces the episode and the relevance of organizing your brain with behavioral economics. 00:05:00 - The Chocolate Cake Study Discussion on how mental overload leads to poor decision-making using a famous study as an example. 00:15:12 - Impact of Clutter How clutter affects stress levels, productivity, and decision-making. 00:22:36 - Decluttering Strategies Tips for organizing physical and digital spaces, including the Konmari method and digital decluttering. 00:26:17 - Productivity Tools Introduction to tools like Gantt charts, Trello, and Gmail snooze function to manage tasks effectively. 00:35:12 - Conclusion, What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: The Microstress Effect, by Rob Cross and Karen Dillon Indistractable, by Nir Eyal Come Up For Air, by Nick Sonnenberg Happier Hour, by Cassie Holmes Work Well, Play More, by Marcey Rader Top Recommended Next Episode: An Overview of Lazy Brain Biases (ep 53) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Overwhelmed Brain and its impact on decision making (ep 358) Cassie Holmes Interview (ep 257) Planning Fallacy (ep 346) Decision Fatigue (ep 244) Leidy Klotz Interview (ep 322) Other Important Links:  Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes Dr. Adam Galinsky, author of the new book Inspire. Adam, a professor at Columbia Business School, shares insights from his extensive research on leadership, negotiation, and decision-making. He discusses the continuum of inspiring and infuriating leaders, revealing that these traits are universal and can be developed over time. Adam introduces the concept of the "leader amplification effect," emphasizing how leaders' actions and words are magnified in their impact on others. He shares personal anecdotes, including an enlightening story about his interaction with Daniel Kahneman, illustrating the profound effects of leadership behaviors. The conversation also delves into the importance of recognizing and fulfilling fundamental human needs through visionary, exemplary, and mentoring leadership. In this episode: Understand the leader amplification effect and its impact on communication and relationships. Learn about the three universal factors that define inspiring leadership: visionary, exemplar, and mentor. Explore practical strategies for becoming a more inspiring leader and enhancing your influence. Discover how small changes in behavior and perspective can lead to significant improvements in leadership effectiveness. Gain insights into the importance of reflection, gratitude, and intentional practice in leadership development. Show Notes: 00:00:00 - Introduction Melina Palmer introduces Dr. Adam Galinsky and the topic of inspiring leadership. 00:05:00 - Leader Amplification Effect Adam explains how leaders' actions are amplified and their significant impact on others. 00:15:07 - Personal Anecdotes Stories illustrating the leader amplification effect, including an encounter with Daniel Kahneman. 00:25:12 - Universal Leadership Traits Discussion on the three universal factors of inspiring leadership. 00:35:00 - Practical Leadership Strategies Tips for becoming a more inspiring leader by reflecting and practicing gratitude. 00:42:15 - Conclusion What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Connect with Adam: LinkedIn Columbia University Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: Inspire, by Adam Galinsky What Your Employees Need and Can't Tell You, by Melina Palmer Influence, by Robert Cialdini influence Is Your Superpower, by Zoe Chance You Have More Influence Than You Think, by Vanessa Bohns Top Recommended Next Episode: Zoe Chance Interview (ep 308) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Robert Cialdini Interview (ep 312) Social Proof (ep 87) Reciprocity (ep 238) Unity (ep 216) Vanessa Bohns Interview (ep 318) Other Important Links:  Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer engages in an insightful conversation with Madeline Quinlan, a behavioral scientist and co-founder of Salient, a consultancy bridging the gap between academic insights and practical applications of behavioral science. Madeline shares her journey from finance to behavioral science and discusses the importance of reframing failures as opportunities for learning and growth. With a focus on the intersection of finance and psychology, Madeline reveals how unexpected outcomes can lead to deeper insights into human behavior and decision-making. Throughout the discussion, Melina and Madeline explore the significance of understanding the right problem before applying behavioral science interventions and the value of piloting initiatives to ensure effectiveness. They also explore the role of qualitative and quantitative research in validating behavioral strategies, emphasizing the need for a more personalized approach to behavioral interventions. In this episode: Discover how unexpected results can provide valuable insights and opportunities for growth. Understand the importance of addressing the right problem in behavioral science applications. Explore the balance between qualitative and quantitative research in behavioral interventions. Learn about the potential of personalization in behavioral science through data and technology. Gain insights into the founding and mission of Salient and the Global Association of Applied Behavioral Scientists (GAABS). Show Notes: 00:00:00 - Introduction Melina introduces Madeline Quinlan, co-founder of Salient, and her background in finance and psychology. Maddie shares her journey and the inspiration behind co-founding Salient. 00:05:45 - Discovering Behavioral Science Maddie discusses her transition from finance to behavioral science and the pivotal moment when she discovered the intersection of finance and psychology. 00:10:30 - Founding Salient Maddie shares the story of founding Salient while pursuing her master's at the London School of Economics and the importance of bridging the gap between academic insights and practical applications. 00:15:22 - Innovative Projects Maddie highlights some of her favorite projects, including a collaboration with Nest Insight to encourage self-employed individuals in the UK to save for their pensions through innovative message framing techniques. 00:22:15 - The Importance of Testing Maddie and Melina discuss the importance of rigorous testing in behavioral science and the value of learning from both successes and failures. 00:30:45 - Embracing Failures Maddie shares insights from her master's thesis on mindfulness meditation and temporal discounting, emphasizing the importance of embracing failures and unexpected results in research. 00:40:30 - The Future of Behavioral Science Maddie discusses the future of behavioral science, including the potential for personalized interventions and the importance of maintaining a human-centered approach. 00:50:15 - Conclusion What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Connect with Madeline: LinkedIn Website Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: Indistractable, by Nir Eyal Your Future Self, by Hal Hershfield Work Well, Play More, by Marcey Rader Good Habits, Bad Habits, by Wendy Wood How to Change, by Katy Milkman Top Recommended Next Episode: Optimism Bias (ep 34) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Time Discounting (ep 328) Bikeshedding (ep 99) Planning Fallacy (ep 346) How to Set, Achieve and Exceed Brainy Goals (ep 70) Dominic Packer Interview (ep 178) Other Important Links:  Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer is joined by Dr. Sunita Sah, a physician turned organizational psychologist and professor at Cornell University. Sunita discusses her new book, Defy: The Power of No in a World that Demands Yes, which explores the importance of defiance in decision-making and how it can be a powerful tool for maintaining personal integrity and values. Her research delves into the dynamics of compliance, conflicts of interest, and the psychological processes that lead individuals to conform to bad advice, even when they know better. Sunita shares her journey from being an obedient child to a medical professional and now an academic researcher, highlighting the importance of understanding one's true values and the pressures that lead to compliance. She also introduces the concept of "insinuation anxiety," which is the discomfort we feel when we don't want to signal distrust to someone giving us advice, even when we recognize a conflict of interest. In this episode: Learn about the concept of defiance and its role in maintaining personal integrity. Understand the psychological dynamics of compliance and the pressures that lead to it. Explore the "defiance compass" and how it can guide decision-making. Discover the superpower of responsibility and how it can empower defiance. Gain insights into creating a workplace culture that encourages safe dissent and defiance. Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction Melina introduces Dr. Sunita Sah and the focus of today's episode on defiance and compliance. 03:00 - Sunita's Background Sunita shares her journey from medicine to academia and her research interests. 10:00 - Understanding Defiance Discussion on the importance of defiance and its role in decision-making. 20:00 - Insinuation Anxiety Exploring the psychological process that leads to compliance in the face of conflict of interest disclosures. 30:00 - Defiance Compass Introduction to the defiance compass and how it guides individuals in making value-based decisions. 40:00 - Superpower of Responsibility How responsibility can empower individuals to defy and maintain personal integrity. 41:00 - Conclusion What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Connect with Sunita: LinkedIn Linktree Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: Defy, by Sunita Sah What Your Employees Need and Can't Tell You, by Melina Palmer Let’s Talk, by Therese Huston Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Workplace Conflict, by Karin Hurt and David Dye Getting Along, by Amy Gallo Top Recommended Next Episode: Stephen MR Covey Interview (ep 320) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Confirmation Bias (ep 260) Focusing Illusion (ep 330) Interview - Amy Gallo Interview (ep 269) Vulnerability Loops (ep 229) Nuala Walsh Interview (ep 153) Other Important Links:  Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer is joined by Dr. Vanessa Patrick, a renowned professor of marketing and author of the USA Today bestseller, The Power of Saying No. Together, they delve into the critical art of saying no and how it can empower individuals to take control of their lives. Vanessa shares her insights on why people struggle with saying no, the importance of setting personal policies, and how empowered refusal can help you manage your time and energy effectively. Throughout the conversation, Melina and Vanessa discuss the psychological barriers that prevent us from saying no, the societal expectations that push us to say yes, and practical strategies to overcome these challenges. They explore the concept of "empowered refusal" and how shifting from "I can't" to "I don't" can transform our decision-making process. Vanessa also introduces her ART framework—Awareness, Rules, and Totality of Self—as a guide to mastering the art of saying no. In this episode: Discover why saying no is essential for personal and professional growth. Learn about the psychological drivers that make us say yes when we want to say no. Explore the ART framework for empowered refusal and how it can transform your life. Understand the importance of personal policies and how they help in decision-making. Gain insights into handling requests at work, especially non-promotable tasks. Show Notes: 00:00:00 - Introduction Melina introduces Dr. Vanessa Patrick and focuses on the power of saying no. 00:04:00 - Vanessa's Background Vanessa shares her background and the motivation behind her research on saying no. 00:10:00 - The Struggle with Saying No Discussion on why people find it challenging to say no and the societal pressures involved. 00:20:00 - Empowered Refusal Introduction to the concept of empowered refusal and the ART framework. 00:30:00 - Personal Policies How personal policies can help in saying no and the difference between "I can't" and "I don't." 00:40:00 - Handling Work Requests Strategies for managing non-promotable tasks and saying no at work. 00:43:00 - Conclusion What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Connect with Vanessa: LinkedIn  Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: The Power of Saying No, by Vanessa Patrick Indistractable, by Nir Eyal Come Up For Air, by Nick Sonnenberg Happier Hour, by Cassie Holmes Work Well, Play More, by Marcey Rader Top Recommended Next Episode: Decision Fatigue (ep 244) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Overwhelmed Brain and its impact on decision making (ep 358) Cassie Holmes Interview (ep 257) Planning Fallacy (ep 346) Leidy Klotz Interview (ep 322) An Overview of Lazy Brain Biases (ep 53) Other Important Links:  Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes Chase Jarvis, author of Never Play It Safe, for an inspiring discussion on living a good life by leveraging essential tools we already possess. Chase, an award-winning artist and entrepreneur, shares insights from his journey and his new book, emphasizing the importance of looking inward rather than seeking external validation. Chase and Melina explore the seven essential tools for a fulfilling life: attention, time, intuition, constraints, play, failure, and practice. They explore how these tools can be harnessed to break free from societal expectations and craft a life aligned with one’s true passions and desires. Chase shares personal anecdotes and lessons learned from his own experiences, encouraging listeners to embrace failure, practice diligently, and find joy in everyday tasks. In this episode: Learn about the seven essential tools for living a fulfilling life and how to leverage them effectively. Discover the power of constraints and how they can enhance creativity and innovation. Understand the importance of failure and practice in achieving personal and professional growth. Explore the concept of time as a long-term ally rather than a short-term constraint. Gain insights into how to align your life with your true passions and desires. Show Notes: 00:00:00 - Introduction Melina Palmer introduces Chase Jarvis and the focus of today's episode on living a good life using essential tools. 00:03:00 - Chase's Background Chase shares his journey as an artist and entrepreneur, highlighting his path to discovering and leveraging his true passions. 00:09:00 - The Seven Essential Tools Discussion on the seven tools: attention, time, intuition, constraints, play, failure, and practice. 00:19:00 - Power of Constraints Exploration of how constraints can be liberating and foster creativity. 00:30:00 - Importance of Failure and Practice Insights into embracing failure and practicing fundamentals to achieve growth. 00:41:00 - Aligning with True Passions How to live a life aligned with personal passions and desires. 00:46:00 - Conclusion What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Connect with Chase: LinkedIn  Website Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: Never Play It Safe, by Chase Jarvis Indistractable, by Nir Eyal How to Change, by Katy Milkman Happier Hour, by Cassie Holmes Thinking Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman Top Recommended Next Episode: Tapping into the Power of Habit (ep 368) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Status Quo Bias (ep 376) Katy Milkman Interview (ep 151) Wendy Wood Interview (ep 428) Sludge (ep 384) Marcey Rader Interview (ep 323) Other Important Links:  Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer dives into the psychology of resolutions and the challenges of keeping commitments. As the New Year begins, many people find themselves struggling to maintain their resolutions, and Melina provides insights into why this happens and how to overcome it. She explores concepts from behavioral economics, including time discounting, anticipated regret, and counterfactual thinking, to understand the subconscious influences on our decision-making. Melina discusses the importance of making future goals feel real and attainable, emphasizing the need for realistic planning and the power of visualization. She also touches on the dual nature of willpower, acting as both a battery and a snowball, and how understanding this can help in setting and achieving goals. Through practical tips and strategies, listeners are encouraged to focus on small, manageable changes and to anticipate and plan for errors along the way. In this episode: Explore the concept of time discounting and how it impacts our ability to stick to resolutions. Learn about anticipated regret and how it can hinder decision-making and goal achievement. Understand the role of willpower as both a battery and a snowball in maintaining self-control. Discover strategies for making resolutions more achievable by focusing on small, realistic changes. Gain insights into how businesses can apply these concepts to better serve their customers and enhance engagement. Show Notes: 00:00:00 - Introduction Melina introduces the topic of resolutions and the challenges of keeping commitments. 00:04:00 - The Reality of Resolutions Discussion on why many people struggle to maintain New Year's resolutions and the psychology behind it. 00:10:00 - Time Discounting Introduction to the concept of time discounting and its impact on decision-making and goal-setting. 00:20:00 - Anticipated Regret and Counterfactual Thinking Exploration of how anticipated regret and counterfactual thinking influence our choices and behaviors. 00:30:00 - Willpower: Battery and Snowball Insights into the dual nature of willpower and how it affects our ability to maintain self-control. 00:35:00 - Practical Strategies for Success Tips for making resolutions more realistic and achievable through small, manageable changes. 00:40:00 - Conclusion What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Android. If you like what you heard, please leave a review on iTunes and share what you liked about the show.  I hope you love everything recommended via The Brainy Business! Everything was independently reviewed and selected by me, Melina Palmer. So you know, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you decide to shop from the links on this page (via Amazon or others), The Brainy Business may collect a share of sales or other compensation. Let’s connect: Melina@TheBrainyBusiness.com The Brainy Business® on Facebook The Brainy Business on Twitter The Brainy Business on Instagram The Brainy Business on LinkedIn Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube Learn and Support The Brainy Business: Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books.  Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode: Good Habits, Bad Habits, by Wendy Wood Indistractable, by Nir Eyal How to Change, by Katy Milkman Happier Hour, by Cassie Holmes Thinking Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman Top Recommended Next Episode: Tapping into the Power of Habit (ep 368) Already Heard That One? Try These:  Status Quo Bias (ep 376) Katy Milkman Interview (ep 151) Wendy Wood Interview (ep 428) Sludge (ep 384) Marcey Rader Interview (ep 323) Other Important Links:  Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter