In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer revisits the foundational concepts of choice architecture and nudges, crucial elements in the field of behavioral economics. Originally aired as episode 35, this episode sets the stage for understanding how subtle changes in the way choices are presented can significantly influence decision-making. Melina refreshes this episode to prepare listeners for her upcoming conversation with author Jason Vojovich.

Melina delves into the work of Nobel laureate Richard Thaler and his co-author Cass Sunstein, explaining how their book Nudge has shaped our understanding of nudges. She uses practical examples, such as school cafeteria food placement, to illustrate how choice architecture can guide better decisions without restricting freedom of choice. This episode is packed with insights on how to apply these concepts in both personal and professional contexts.

In this episode:

• Learn the core definitions of choice architecture and nudges.
• Understand the impact of subtle changes in choice presentation.
• Explore practical examples of nudges in everyday scenarios.
• Discover how to design better choices for improved decision-making.

Show Notes:

00:00:00 - Introduction
Melina Palmer introduces the episode and its relevance to the upcoming discussion with Jason Voiovich.

00:02:15 - Definition of Nudges
Melina explains the core definition of a nudge and its significance in behavioral economics.

00:05:30 - Richard Thaler's Contribution
An overview of Richard Thaler's Nobel Prize-winning work and the book Nudge.

00:10:45 - School Cafeteria Example
Practical example of how food placement in school cafeterias can influence children's food choices.

00:15:00 - Behavioral Insights Team
Discussion on the role of a Behavioral Insights team in implementing nudges at the policy level.

00:20:00 - The Role of a Choice Architect
Explanation of what it means to be a choice architect and how it applies to various professions.

00:25:00 - Ethical Considerations
Examination of the ethical implications of using nudges in decision-making.

00:30:00 - Examples of Choice Architecture
Real-world examples of choice architecture in HR, healthcare, and other fields.

00:35:00 -  Conclusion
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Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode:

• What Your Customer Wants and Can't Tell You, by Melina Palmer
• Nudge, by Richard Thaler & Cass Sunstein
• Thinking Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman
• What Your Employees Need and Can't Tell You, by Melina Palmer
• Sludge, by Cass Sunstein

Top Recommended Next Episode: Cass Sunstein Interview (ep 371)

Already Heard That One? Try These: 

• Unlocking the Secrets of the Brain (ep 1)
• Framing (ep 296)
• Priming (ep 252)
• Habits (ep 256)
• Prefactual Thinking: How to Turn “What If” Into “Why Not” (ep 71)

Other Important Links: 

• Brainy Bites - Melina’s LinkedIn Newsletter
• Choice Architecture