Behavioral Grooves Podcast
Behavioral Grooves Podcast explores the stories, science, and secrets behind human behavior. Hosted by Kurt Nelson and Tim Houlihan, it features conversations with thought-leaders to uncover why we do what we do. The podcast aims to improve relationships, wellbeing, and organizations by helping listeners find their groove.
Episodes
The Science of Violence | Dr. Gary Slutkin
What if violence is contagious? Dr. Gary Slutkin argues that violence spreads like an epidemic, and that public health strategies can help stop it. We explore social pain, belonging, violence interrupters, and the science behind preventing violence before it spreads.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Dr. Gary Slutkin
[8:23] Why Do We Treat Violence as a Moral Problem?
[11:25] What Happens W
The Psychology of Habits | Charles Duhigg
What does it really take to change a habit? Charles Duhigg, journalist and author of The Power of Habit, joins us to explore how our understanding of habits has evolved and why lasting change may start with changing how we see ourselves. From the “habit window” and keystone habits to habit chaining and identity shifts, we challenge long-held assumptions about willpower and explore how small change
What We Got Wrong About the Stanford Prison Experiment
Have we misunderstood two of psychology’s most famous experiments? We revisit the Stanford Prison Experiment and the Robbers Cave experiment with science historians Thibault Le Texier and Gina Perry, who uncovered a much messier story behind the research we learned about in school. What can these experiments actually tell us about human behavior, and what happens when researchers become more inves
Behavioral Grooves: Behavioral Science Explained
Why do we do what we do? Behavioral Grooves explores the science of human behavior with researchers, authors, and thinkers who help us make sense of ourselves, each other, and the world around us.
Behavioral Economics: When Markets Clash with Morals | Al Roth
Horse meat, kidneys, prostitution. What happens when the things people want to buy, sell, and trade collide with what society has deemed “off-limits”? Nobel Prize-winning economist Alvin “Al” Roth joins us to explore the behavioral science behind controversial markets, from repugnance and social norms to black markets, incentives, and informed consent. We also dig into his work redesigning the kid
Bridging the Gap Between Behavioral Science & Policy | BSPA
What happens when behavioral science leaves the classroom and enters the real world? In this special episode, we explore the past and future of the Behavioral Science & Policy Association with founders Sim Sitkin and Craig Fox and incoming leader Crystal Hall. We talk about bridging the gap between research and practice, the growing importance of interdisciplinary behavioral science, and why u
How to Make Work Fun | Bree Groff
What if work didn’t have to be something we simply “get through” five days a week? This week, we sit down with Bree Groff, author of Today Was Fun, to explore how small changes in the way we interact, communicate, and lead can make work more human and mostly fun, most days. We talk about work-life balance, chronic overwork, psychological safety, AI, and the importance of protecting the relationshi
The Behavioral Science of Psychological Safety | Jeremy Pollack
This week, Dr. Jeremy Pollack joins us to explore the neuroscience of conflict, trust, mistakes, uncertainty, and psychological safety. We discuss how these obstacles and miscommunications can affect our work environments, what to do when you notice them, and how to build healthier teams by breaking old conflict patterns before they start.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Jeremy Pollack
[
How to Disagree Better | Julia Minson
Disagreements are inevitable, but they don’t have to become conflicts. Harvard Kennedy School professor Julia Minson joins us to explore why we struggle to see perspectives different from our own and how openness, curiosity, and humility can lead to more productive conversations. We also get practical strategies for navigating difficult conversations, from asking better questions to understanding
The Science Behind Constraints | David Epstein
What if constraints could actually make us more creative? This week, we use behavioral science to explore how limits on our time, resources, and choices can focus our attention, spark creativity, and help us make better decisions. With author David Epstein, we look at how creatives like Bach and Dr. Seuss used constraints to generate new ideas, and how identifying bottlenecks at work can help us f
The Science of Trust, Identity, and Tension | Claude Steele
What happens when we enter a conversation with someone we assume is different from us? Social psychologist Claude Steele argues that the tension and nerves we feel may have less to do with prejudice than we think. In his new book, Churn, Claude explores how identity threats can affect our performance and relationships, why we fear being misjudged, and how empathy, listening, and understanding can
How Culture Shapes Human Behavior | Oliver Sweet
How does culture shape the way we think, behave, and interact with one another? In this episode, anthropologist Oliver Sweet explores the hidden social rules that influence human behavior, from communication and cultural norms to social media, artificial intelligence, and changing generational values. We discuss the psychology and anthropology of culture, how "vibe shifts" emerge, whether technolo
Has Social Media Stolen Your Individuality? | Patricia Martin
Who are you when no one is watching? We welcome author Patricia Martin to discuss how social media, algorithms, and AI are reshaping our sense of self. From persona fog and chronic self-doubt to the future of human agency, we explore what it means to build an authentic identity in an increasingly performative digital world.
Topics
[0:00] Introduction and Speed Round with Patricia Martin
[9:18] Fro
You're Not the Only One Feeling Lonely | Bill von Hippel
Why does modern life leave so many of us feeling disconnected? We explore the surprising evolutionary forces behind loneliness, autonomy, and technology, and share practical ways to build stronger relationships without giving up the conveniences of modern life.
Topics
[0:00] Introduction and Speed Round with Bill von Hippel
[11:09] Were hunter-gatherers actually happier?
[15:40] Why evolution favo
The Truth About Crime Prevention | Jennifer Doleac
What actually stops crime? Economist Jennifer Doleac joins us to explore the behavioral science behind safer communities, revealing why certainty of consequences, not harsher punishments, is the key to changing behavior and how evidence can lead to smarter criminal justice policy.
Topics
[0:00] Introduction and Speed Round with Jennifer Doleac
[9:15] How an economist found criminal justice
[13:56]
Is AI Making Us Dumber? (Part 2)
AI can make us more efficient, but it can also change how we think, collaborate, and trust one another. As we continue to groove on AI, we dig into the concepts of cognitive surrender, creative convergence, trust erosion, and the new challenges facing managers as the race to adopt AI takes over corporate America. If you want to improve human connection and navigate AI's impact thoughtfully, take a
Climate Advice You’ve Never Heard | Liz Dunn & Jiaying Zhao
Climate change conversations often focus on sacrifice, but what if the path to a healthier planet also made us happier? We sit down with Leave the Lights On authors Liz Dunn and Jiaying Zhao to explore how behavioral science can help us focus on the environmental choices that matter most, why social influence is more powerful than guilt, and how small, joyful decisions can create lasting change.
T
The Real Danger of AI (Part 1)
AI is making work faster, but at what cost? It's weakening collaboration, eroding culture, and spawning new problems and costs that most organizations didn't see coming. In Part 1 of our deep-dive into modern AI, we're exploring the behavioral science behind AI adoption, why "work slop" is becoming a growing problem, and how you can use AI to strengthen, rather than damage, your workplace and team
Why Employees Hate Change | Julia Dhar
Why do so many organizational change initiatives fail? This week, we’re joined by behavioral economist Julia Dhar, co-author of How Change Really Works, to explore the behavioral science behind successful change. From curiosity and anxiety to psychological safety, AI, and the difference between change fatigue and change disappointment, Julia shares practical strategies that help leaders turn good
Throwback Monday: Does Democracy Need a Rebrand? | AJ Jacobs
We’re taking a holiday break this week and revisiting a favorite conversation with AJ Jacobs about his year-long experiment living by 18th-century principles inspired by the U.S. Constitution. From tricorn hats and quill pens to rediscovering “Election Cakes,” AJ explores how early American civic life blended community, ritual, and democracy. We also dig into “epistemic humility” and Benjamin Fran
The Godfather of Influence: The Lasting Impact of Robert Cialdini, Part 3
In the final episode of our Robert Cialdini series, we explore the extraordinary legacy of one of behavioral science's most influential thinkers. We revisit the seven Principles of Influence through real-world business examples, hear how Cialdini's ideas inspired organizations around the world, and learn why colleagues like Angela Duckworth, Adam Grant, Dan Pink, and Katie Milkman believe his grea
The Godfather of Influence: What Makes Bob Bob, Part 2
In the second episode of our three-part series, we go back into the time machine to see what shaped Robert Cialdini into one of behavioral science's most influential thinkers. We're exploring the childhood experience, career-defining decisions, undercover research, and surprising moments that led to Influence, pre-suasion, and the principles of unity.
Topics
[0:00] A breakup letter to social psy
The Godfather of Influence: How Robert Cialdini Changed the World, Part 1
We kick off our three-part series on Robert Cialdini by exploring the research, mentors, and discoveries that shaped one of behavioral science's most influential thinkers. From social proof and energy conservation to the creation of Influence, we trace the path that brought behavioral science from the lab to millions of everyday readers.
Topics
[0:00] The Utility Bill That Changed Behavior
[9:28]
What Immigrants Teach Us About Success | Neri Karra Sillaman
As we celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, we sit down with Neri Karra Sillaman to explore what immigrant entrepreneurs can teach us about resilience, leadership, and long-term success. We discuss why luck is a skill, how reframing challenges creates opportunity, and the mindset behind companies that stand the test of time
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Neri Karra Sillaman
[6:26] The Secr
Throwback Thursday: The Secret Key to Decision-Making | Emily Falk
In keeping with our themes of mattering, meaning, and connection this June, we wanted to reshare a conversation with had with author Emily Falk. In this conversation, we decode what goes on behind the scenes with our decisions - everything from what to eat for breakfast to how to respond to trolls on social media - and how emotional, rational, and social information is integrated by the brain to g
The Common Trap Companies Fall For | Phil Le-Brun & Jana Werner
Why do smart organizations become slow, bureaucratic, and resistant to change? Phil Le-Brun and Jana Werner, authors of The Octopus Organization, explore why so many companies fall into the trap of becoming “Tin Man Organizations” and what leaders can do instead. We discuss distributed decision-making, psychological safety, incentives, organizational learning, and why adaptability, not control, is
Throwback Thursday: Fighting Imposter Syndrome at Work | Martin Gonzalez
In our June throwback episode (and in honor of Immigrant Heritage Month), we're revisiting our conversation with Marin Gonzalez about leadership, self-doubt, and the challenges of building a successful team. Martin shared with us his experience as both an immigrant and an entrepreneur, offering a candid look at how he overcame imposter syndrome, navigated uncertainty, and ultimately helped create
Fame, Incels, and the Need to Matter | Rebecca Goldstein
Author Rebecca Newberger Goldstein joins us to explore “the mattering instinct,” the deeply human need to feel significant, worthy, and justified in our own eyes. From “mattering projects” and morality to fame, incels, AI, and entropy, this conversation dives into the psychological and philosophical forces shaping how we search for meaning and purpose in our lives.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Ro
The Hidden Rules of Lucky People | Judd Kessler
What if luck has less to do with chance and more to do with understanding the systems around us? We talk with Judd Kessler about the hidden markets shaping opportunities in everything from concert tickets and jobs to relationships and organ transplants. Together, we explore why so many systems feel unfair, how behavioral economics can improve them, and why learning the rules behind these invisible
How the Spaces Around Us Shape Our Lives | Leidy Klotz
Why do some spaces energize us while others drain us? This week, Leidy Klotz joins us to explore how our homes, workplaces, and everyday environments shape our behavior, creativity, and well-being. Drawing from his new book, In a Good Place, Leidy explains why humans crave agency, competence, and connection, and how the spaces around us can either support or suppress those needs.
Topics
[0:00] Int
Throwback Thursday: The #1 Way to Live a Happy Life | Shige Oishi
In this throwback episode, we're determined to be happy. Psychologist Shige Oishi joined us to explore the three dimensions of a fulfilling life: happiness, meaning, and psychological richness. He shared insights from decades of research into subjective well-being and revealed how personality traits, life experiences, and cultural contexts shape what we consider a “good life.” From challenging the
Why We’re Lonely Together | Nick Epley
Why do we avoid talking to strangers when connection is exactly what we need most? This week, Nick Epley returns to explore the psychology of “under-sociality” and why we consistently underestimate how rewarding social interaction can be. Nick explains why even small moments of openness, from conversations with strangers to deeper honesty with the people around us, can dramatically improve happine
The Biggest Mistake We Make About Others - Behavioral Grooves LIVE
In this 500th episode celebration, we reflect on eight years of behavioral science insights, from habits and decision-making to why we so often misunderstand each other. Joined live by Nick Epley, we run a real-time experiment that reveals the gap between what we expect from conversations and what actually happens, and why asking better questions can transform how we connect.
Topics
[0:00] Eight Y
Why Don’t I Feel Loved? | Sonja Lyubomirsky
What if the issue isn’t whether people love you, but whether you actually feel it? In this episode, Sonja Lyubomirsky joins us to explore the gap between being loved and feeling loved, and why that disconnect happens. Drawing from her book How to Feel Loved, we talk about the psychology behind connection, challenge common myths like love languages, and dig into how curiosity, vulnerability, and be
The Silent Killer in Your Workplace | Tom Rieger
Fear at work isn’t obvious, but it is powerful. In this episode, Tom Rieger explains how fear of loss drives silos, misalignment, and inefficiency, and why AI and remote work may be making things worse, instead of better.
Topics
[0:00] Introduction and Speed Round with Tom Rieger
[8:43] The Impact of Fear on Organizations
[16:26] Behavioral Economics and Organizational Fear
[23:39] The Role of AI
How to Influence Others (Ethically) | Brian Ahearn
Should influence be about getting to “yes”? With Brian Ahearn, we explore a more ethical approach where persuasion is a responsibility, humility drives leadership, and real impact comes from helping others make better decisions.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Brian Ahearn
[8:10] The Line Between Influence and Manipulation
[12:25] Why Intent Matters in Persuasion
[16:40] Aligning Influenc
Throwback Thursday: The Life-Changing Importance of Questions | Elizabeth Weingarten
What if the key to growth isn’t finding better answers, but asking better questions? In our April throwback episode, we revisit our conversation with Elizabeth Weingarten on her book How to Fall in Love with Questions, where we explore how embracing uncertainty can lead to greater self-awareness, resilience, and connection. Through practice and mindset shifts, Elizabeth tells us all the ways quest
How to Design Work That People Love | Marcus Buckingham
Marcus Buckingham joins us to challenge the belief that success comes from doing what you’re good at. Using decades of research, he argues that what truly drives performance and fulfillment is something else entirely: love. In this episode, we explore why most workplace strategies miss the mark and how focusing on what gives you energy can reshape the way you think about work, and maybe even life.
Why Some People Just Click (and Others Don’t) | Maya Rossignac-Milon
What does it mean to truly “click” with someone—and why does it matter so much at work? With researcher Maya Rossignac-Milon, we explore the science of shared reality and how authentic, off-script interactions lead to stronger relationships, greater meaning, and better performance. This episode reframes connection not as a bonus, but as a core driver of success.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round
Are We Solving the Wrong Problems? | Nick Chater
Are nudges enough to change behavior at scale? Nick Chater argues they’re not. In this episode, we explore the limits of individual-focused solutions and why lasting change often requires shifting systems, not just choices.
Topics
[0:00] Introduction and Speed Round with Nick Chater
[13:00] What Does Nudging Really Do?
[18:30] I-Frame vs S-Frame Thinking
[25:00] Nudges and Politics
[28:09] Limitat
Can AI Strengthen Democracy? | Sandy Pentland
AI pioneer Sandy Pentland joins us to explore how storytelling and shared wisdom shape human culture, and how artificial intelligence could either strengthen or freeze that process. From the history of AI to the future of democracy, we discuss collective intelligence, distributed decision-making, and how AI tools might actually improve civic dialogue if designed the right way.
Topics
[0:00] Introd
The Real Secret to Living Longer | Ken Stern
What truly helps people live longer, healthier lives? In this episode, we talk with journalist and author Ken Stern about the science behind longevity and why social connection may matter more than diet or exercise alone. From loneliness being compared to smoking 15 cigarettes a day to cultures that keep older adults engaged through work and community, we explore how purpose, relationships, and so
Throwback Thursday: Evolution's Secret Playbook | Sam Tatam
In memory of our friend, Sam Tatam. Sam was a pioneer in his field, and he joined us for a discussion full of creativity, resolve, and a love of behavioral science. He will be missed.
Innovation does not always come from inventing something entirely new. Often, the natural world has already solved the problem. In this throwback conversation, we explore the concept of biomimicry with behavioral sc
Are You Too Agreeable? | Dr. Sunita Sah
Why do we say yes when we mean no? In this episode, we talk with Sunita Sah about the psychology of compliance and defiance. From Stanley Milgram’s experiments to the hidden force of insinuation anxiety, we explore why compliance is not the same as consent and how to train yourself to act in alignment with your true values.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and speed round with Sunita Sah
[14:57] Stanley Milgra
What Happened to the Person I Knew? Why Relationships Change
Relationships change because people change. In this episode, we explore what it means when someone you love no longer feels like the person you once knew. Using behavioral science, we examine why personality shifts over time, why growth does not always happen in the same direction, and how to decide whether to reconnect, recalibrate, or let go.
Topics
[0:00] Understanding Relationship Changes
[7:0
Why Does Jet Lag Hit so Hard? | Daniel Forger
What if your mood, focus, and energy aren’t random—but driven by internal clocks you rarely think about? This week, circadian rhythm expert Daniel Forger explains why jet lag hits so hard, why sleep timing may matter more than sleep duration, and what your wearable data actually means. If you’ve ever questioned your “sleep score” or wondered whether you’re a morning person by design, this conversa
Finding Common Ground: When Persuasion Fails and Belief Takes Over
In this special Grooving session, we unpack what happens when shared facts collapse and preferred beliefs take their place. Sparked by Kurt's firsthand experience during unrest in Minneapolis, this conversation explores why people reject lived experience, how identity defense and motivated reasoning shut down dialogue, and when it’s rational to stop trying to persuade altogether. Drawing on behavi
Primal Dating: What Modern Romance Gets Wrong | Tim Ash
Dating in 2026 feels broken. The apps promise infinite choice, rom-coms on our screens promise “the one”, and yet frustration, ghosting, and mismatched expectations seem to be more normal than anything actually working out. This week, Tim Ash, author of Primal Dating, joins us as we explore why dating in the modern world feels so unstable and why many of today’s relationship struggles aren’t pers
Throwback Thursday: The Myth of the "Relationship Spark" | Logan Ury
Love is in the air this Valentine's Day...or is that science? Today, we're throwing it back to 2021, when we had the privilege of chatting with Logan Ury, Director of Relationship Science at Hinge, about the challenges people face in modern dating. From getting ready for a first date to maintaining a relationship long term, Logan gives us valuable insights and advice on how to overcome common hurd
What Dating Apps Miss About Attraction | Paul Eastwick
You think you know what you want in a partner, but behavioral science says attraction doesn’t work that way. Relationship scientist Paul Eastwick breaks down why dating apps and checklists fail, how attraction actually forms, and why real compatibility grows through interaction, timing, and shared history.
Topics
[0:00] Introduction and Speed Round with Paul Eastwick
[8:21] Why dating checklists a
How Small Phrases Make Big Impacts | James Geary
Why do certain phrases stay with us for life? In this episode, were joined by James Geary, author of The World in a Phrase, to explore how aphorisms shape judgment, decision-making, and meaning. From fortune cookies to philosophy, they unpack why short sayings act as cognitive heuristics, how they guide thinking without giving answers, and why the aphorisms that serve us best often change over tim
Finding Common Ground: A Conversation About Minneapolis
This Grooving Session feels personal for us. We’re combining our own experiences with behavioral science to explore why civil discourse seems so fragile right now. Over the weekend, tensions rose as ICE activity increased in Minneapolis, and Kurt’s neighborhood was deeply affected. When political tension is high, factors such as fear, proximity to events, and social identity can worsen polarizatio
Why Rational People Make Irrational Choices | Alex Imas
Why do smart people keep making predictably bad decisions? Behavioral economist Alex Imas joins us to unpack The Winner’s Curse, loss aversion, and the persistent biases that shape markets, policy, and everyday choices. We explore why classic economic models fall short and what behavioral economics reveals about how humans really decide.
Topics
[0:00] Introduction and speed round with Alex Imas
[1
January Blues? How to Rest, Reflect, and Restart
January often feels like a letdown instead of a fresh start. In this episode, we explain the behavioral science behind the January slump, why motivation drops after the holidays, and how reflection, recovery, and smaller milestones can help individuals and teams regain energy and momentum.
Topics
[0:00] Are you feeling that January Slump?
[3:34] Reflecting and recharging
[4:56] What leaders can do
Why We Get Bored | Erin Westgate
Boredom feels unpleasant, but that may be the point. Psychologist Dr. Erin Westgate joins us to explain why boredom is a signal rather than a flaw, how meaning and attention shape it, and what it can teach us about work, burnout, and living a psychologically rich life.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Erin Westgate
[8:05] Do we think for pleasure?
[13:11] Why men would rather shock themsel
Throwback Thursday: The Surprising Power of One Word | Jonah Berger
It’s Throwback Thursday at Behavioral Grooves, and we’re revisiting one of our favorite conversations with bestselling author Jonah Berger on the surprising power of words. Tiny shifts in language can shape behavior, influence relationships, and even change how others see us. Jonah reveals the “magic words” that captivate, motivate, and persuade, and shares practical tips for turning actions into
The Productivity Myth That’s Burning You Out | Natalie Nixon, PhD
What if the key to better work isn’t doing more, but moving more, resting better, and thinking differently? Dr. Natalie Nixon joins us to unpack her Move, Think, Rest framework and explain why creativity thrives when we step away from hustle culture. From walking meetings and daydreaming to embracing ambiguity and redesigning how we work, this episode offers a powerful reframe for anyone feeling b
Best Behavioral Science Books of 2025 (According to us)
In this annual “best of the best” episode, we revisit the behavioral science books that most influenced our thinking this year. Rather than ranking titles, we explore what made each book impactful; from happiness and psychological richness to leadership, teams, and behavioral economics, and why these ideas continue to challenge how we think, work, and live.
Topics
[0:00] Can we really rank “best”
Why Is It So Hard to Stick to Our Resolutions? | Ayelet Fishbach (Republish)
Happy New Year, Groovers! This week, we're taking some time-off and sharing an oldie but a goodie - our conversation with Ayelet Fishbach.
The start of a new year often brings fresh motivation...and then we burnout. But why? In this recast, we are joined by Dr. Ayelet Fishbach to explore why willpower-driven resolutions fail and how behavioral science offers a smarter way to set goals that last.
Why We Gather: The Psychology of Holiday Rituals
Why do holiday rituals matter so much to our happiness and sense of connection? In this pre-Christmas special, we unwrap (ho ho ho…) the behavioral science behind gatherings and traditions—from Thanksgiving dinners to baking cookies and watching favorite holiday movies. Learn how rituals differ from habits, why they help reduce anxiety, and how small, intentional moments can strengthen belonging,
The Secret Ingredient of High-Performing Teams | Vanessa Druskat
Individual emotional intelligence matters — but teams thrive when EI is built together, not carried by a few well-developed individuals. In this episode, Vanessa Druskat explains why high-performing groups rely on shared norms that create psychological safety, trust, and collaboration. We talk through her research-backed framework for turning work groups into emotionally intelligent teams, how lea
Why Great Leaders Still Get Stuck | Muriel Wilkins
Executive coach and author Muriel Wilkins joins us to unpack the invisible beliefs that quietly shape how we lead. We explore why curiosity is the starting point for self-awareness, the common internal blockers she sees in leaders, and why leadership growth is less about changing who you are and more about expanding your mindset. Muriel breaks down how hidden scripts formed early in life can limit
How Expectations Shape Who We Become
In this special episode inspired by questions from our Facebook Community, we explore why big change feels intimidating even though most transformation happens quietly in our daily lives. Kurt and Tim dig into the micro-shifts we overlook, the powerful role expectations play in shaping our confidence and identity, and why surrounding yourself with people who expand your sense of possibility truly
Why Split-Second Thinking Fuels Violence | Jens Ludwig
Is violence caused by “bad people,” too many guns, or something deeper? In this episode, University of Chicago researcher Jens Ludwig reveals why most violent acts stem not from evil intent but from ordinary people in unforgiving situations. We explore how behavior, context, metacognition, and split-second decision-making shape violent outcomes — and why small, scalable interventions like pocket p
The Science of Being Thankful
Why does gratitude feel so easy to feel yet so hard to say? In this Thanksgiving grooving session, we unpack the psychology behind our awkwardness around expressing appreciation—from miscaliberated assumptions to the belief that people can “just tell” how grateful we are. Drawing on research from Nick Epley and others, we explore how gratitude rewires the brain, boosts well-being, and strengthens
The Leadership Wake-Up Call | Margaret Andrews
Harvard instructor Margaret Andrews joins us to explore why effective leadership starts with self-awareness. We discuss blind spots, emotional intelligence, team norms, and the internal work leaders must do to better understand their impact. Margaret offers practical tools for developing people and navigating organizational context, showing how self-understanding reshapes culture, communication, a
Why the Gender Revolution Stopped | Corinne Low
What if the gender revolution never finished? Economist Corinne Low joins us to unpack why women have transformed the workforce while men’s roles at home have barely changed. Drawing on insights from her book Having It All, Corinne reveals why so many families are stretched thin, caught between data, social pressure, and outdated norms. Together, we explore what it means to “have it almost,” and h
Is the American Dream Dead? | Mark Matson
Financial advisor and author Mark Matson joins Behavioral Grooves to explore what the American Dream means today—and whether it’s truly attainable for everyone. We dig into his view that fulfillment comes from mindset, not money, and examine how behavioral biases can sabotage our financial decisions. But as we discuss the tension between personal responsibility and systemic headwinds, we also ask:
The Trick That Shapes Every Choice You Make | Mikael Klintman
How does framing influence the way we think, feel, and act? Sociologist and author Mikael Klintman joins us to explore how framing shapes nearly every part of life — from art and politics to health and everyday conversations. We discuss how subtle shifts in language and context can change our perceptions, why framing itself is neutral but powerful, and how expanding or contracting our frames can u
Freaky Friday: Grooving on Scary Biases
Happy Halloween from Behavioral Grooves! In the spirit (OoooOoo) of the holiday, we're resharing one of our old episodes exploring the spooky side of biases - why we have them, and how we can overcome them. Tune in while you're painting your face for that halloween party, or maybe play it on the speakers outside to really scare the kids with some cold hard science.
No tricks, just treats — and by
The Science of Superstition: Why Our Brains Believe in Magic
This Halloween, we dive into the spooky science of superstition—why we knock on wood, wear lucky socks, and believe in things that defy logic. From the psychology of control and uncertainty to research on how superstition both stresses and strengthens us, we mix science, humor, and a dash of Stevie Wonder to show why “superstition ain’t the way.”
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[0:00] Happy Halloween from Behavioral Groov
The Lies We Believe About Control | Dr. Wolfgang Linden
Psychologist and author Dr. Wolfgang Linden joins us to explore why so much of our stress comes not from events themselves, but from our attempts to control them. Drawing on 40+ years of research and clinical experience, he breaks down the “illusion of control” and argues that we only truly have power over two things: how we respond and where we direct our energy. We dive into his emotion–thought–
Eight Years Grooving: How to Decide | Annie Duke (Republish)
This October, we’re celebrating 8 years of Behavioral Grooves! To mark the occasion, we’re digging into our archives and re-sharing some of our most popular and thought-provoking conversations every Thursday for the next two months.
The celebration builds to our Anniversary Event on October 16th in Minneapolis, where fan favorite Nick Epley will lead the audience in a live social experiment and co
Why Who You Know Still Matters | Toby Stuart
We explore the hidden forces of status and anointment with Professor Toby Stuart, author of Anointed: How Status Shapes Our Lives. Status influences careers, relationships, and how we perceive art, yet as AI blurs traditional markers of merit, society is increasingly relying on shortcuts like pedigree and recognition. We examine the risks, opportunities, and compounding effects of status, revealin
Eight Years Grooving: Why People Succeed | Bob McKinnon (Republish)
This October, we’re celebrating 8 years of Behavioral Grooves! To mark the occasion, we’re digging into our archives and re-sharing some of our most popular and thought-provoking conversations every Thursday for the next two months.
The celebration builds to our Anniversary Event on October 16th in Minneapolis, where fan favorite Nick Epley will lead the audience in a live social experiment and co
You’re Right - Meetings Are the Worst | Don Kieffer
Don Kieffer, co-author of There’s Got to Be a Better Way, shares why “common sense” often misguides leaders and how dynamic work design helps organizations thrive. From calling meetings the worst form of organizational abuse to showing why managers can become their own obstacles, Don explains how making work visible and partnering with people closest to the work can unlock both adaptability and ef
Eight Years Grooving: Delighting in Death | Jodi Wellman (Republish)
This October, we’re celebrating 8 years of Behavioral Grooves! To mark the occasion, we’re digging into our archives and re-sharing some of our most popular and thought-provoking conversations every Thursday for the next two months.
The celebration builds to our Anniversary Event on October 16th in Minneapolis, where fan favorite Nick Epley will lead the audience in a live social experiment and co
The Secret Psychology Behind 17 Iconic Brands | Richard Shotton
Richard Shotton joins us to reveal the behavioral science secrets behind 17 iconic brands — from Guinness and Snickers to Apple and Dyson. He explains how psychological biases like concreteness, trigger moments, and the illusion of effort drive real-world success, and why making things easy often beats motivation.
©2025 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
[0:00] Intro and speed round with Richard Shotton
[7
Eight Years Grooving: The Psychology of Scams | Dan Simons and Chris Chabris (Republish)
This October, we’re celebrating 8 years of Behavioral Grooves! To mark the occasion, we’re digging into our archives and re-sharing some of our most popular and thought-provoking conversations every Thursday for the next two months.
The celebration builds to our Anniversary Event on October 16th in Minneapolis, where fan favorite Nick Epley will lead the audience in a live social experiment and co
The #1 Driver of Employee Wellbeing | Mark Crowley
Employee engagement scores have been stuck for decades—but belonging and wellbeing might be the missing pieces. We talk with Mark Crowley about why emotions drive behavior, how rituals create culture, and why leading with heart is actually the smartest path to performance.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and speed round with Mark Crowley
[9:05] Why leaders dismiss engagement scores
[11:28] The power of asking
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