Stories, science and secrets from the world’s brightest thought-leaders. Behavioral Grooves is the podcast that satisfies your curiosity of why we do what we do. Explanations of human behavior that will improve your relationships, your wellbeing, and your organization by helping you find your groove.
Episodes
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Could a simple question be the key to unlocking deeper, more meaningful relationships?
Join Kurt and Tim on a special Valentine's Day episode of their podcast as they explore the transformative potential of simple questions in relationships with Topaz Adizes. Author of "12 Questions for Love" and founder of the innovative project {THE AND}, Topaz shares insights into creating intimate spaces for conversations and mastering non-judgmental listening.
Together, they delve into the profound impact of well-constructed questions, emphasizing their role in promoting personal growth and deeper connections. Drawing from rich experiences observing human behavior, Topaz offers invaluable advice on deep listening and reframing questions for meaningful dialogue. Whether you're coupled up or flying solo, tune in to discover practical strategies for fostering more fulfilling relationships and cultivating genuine connections in every aspect of life.
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(0:00) St. Valentine’s Day and special announcements
(6:21) Introduction and speed round
(10:47) Creating space for relationship exploration
(15:59) Reframing questions for personal growth
(23:15) Deep listening and connection in relationships
(35:13) Asking powerful questions to improve relationships
(39:31) The power of deep conversations
(47:29) Deepening relationships through emotional articulation
(59:09) Grooving on relationships and communication
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Links
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-_lLdOVYCxsxHMzUsVYsXg
Collins, Hanne K, et al. “When Listening Is Spoken.” Current Opinion in Psychology, Elsevier
Musical Links
Sunday Feb 04, 2024
Sunday Feb 04, 2024
Ever wonder how to boost your retirement savings? Could the subtle art of behavioral economics hold the answer? Join Tim in this solo-sode as he explores this with guest John Beshears. Uncover the impact of automatic enrollment on participation rates and the potential downside of increased debt. Beshears' research reveals unique strategies, like framing savings as "fresh starts." Maximize your savings and delve into the evolution of behavioral economics with Tim and John in this weeks captivating episode.
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(7:43) Introduction and Speed Round
(12:23) The Impact of Auto-Enrollment on Retirement Savings
(16:41) The Psychology Behind Financial Decision Making
(22:31) Automatic Enrollment, Savings, and Employee Debt
(33:48) Long Term Effects
(37:37) Reframing Savings and “Fresh Starts”
(46:04) Jazz Music and Productivity
(52:35) Grooving Session: Behavioral Science and Retirement Savings
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Automatic Enrollment and Financial Stress
Fresh Start Approach to Savings
Behavioral Economics in Action Conference
Musical Links
Charlie Parker at Massey Hall
Mose Allison "Everybody Cryin' Mercy"
Lightnin' Hopkins "What Kind of Woman is This?"
Phillip Glass "Opening"
![Decoding Behavior Change | Bri Williams [Republish]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog2137480/Bri_Williams_Border_62v8pc_300x300.png){kind=logo}
Sunday Jan 28, 2024
Sunday Jan 28, 2024
It's time for a throwback episode!
Dive into the land down under of behavioral sciences with Bri Williams, a trailblazer in applying behavioral principles to the business landscape. As a devoted follower of visionaries like Dan Ariely, BJ Fogg, and Richard Thaler, Bri recognized the need for more than just frameworks in the business community – they needed practical tools. Founder of PeoplePatterns, Bri transforms the abstract concepts of behavioral science into actionable strategies for business leaders.
In this enlightening conversation, Bri unveils her unique model focused on dismantling barriers to behavior change: apathy, paralysis, and anxiety. Explore intriguing topics such as priming and Bri's keen observations of nudges in the world. Delve into her book, "Behavioural Economics for Business," and enjoy the journey as we explore various rabbit holes including... origami of toilet paper?
Join us in this immersive conversation with Bri Williams. Share this episode with a friend, and let's expand the community of behavioral science enthusiasts together!
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(4:08) Introduction and Speed Round
(7:11) Developing a Behavioral Framework
(13:23) Business Model for Behavior Change
(18:50) Comparing other models
(25:15) Origami of Toilet Paper with Lou Carbone
(33:00) 3 Tips for improving habits
(39:10) Music recommendations
(41:56) Grooving Session
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Behavioural Economics for Business
Training and Coaching with Bri
Musical Links
Sunday Jan 21, 2024
Sunday Jan 21, 2024
Set sail into the uncharted waters of behavioral science with Kurt and Tim on a captivating journey led by PhD candidate Linnea Gandhi. Together, they explore the revolutionary concept of Nudge Cartography, a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to map the intricate landscape of behavioral nudges – those subtle interventions designed to shape human behavior. If you're scratching your head wondering, "Nudge Cartography? What's that?" fear not! Kurt and Tim are your fearless guides, ready to unravel the mysteries and implications of this fascinating exploration.
Nudge Cartography challenges the traditional view of academic research in behavioral science, urging practitioners to see research papers not merely as products but as essential marketing tools. Linnea Gandhi, in her insightful observations, emphasizes the transformative power of understanding the world through research and the need to use that understanding for positive change. Kurt and Tim navigate through the implications of this perspective, discussing the critical role of replication in research and the broader mission of comprehending the world to drive meaningful improvements.
Curious about the specifics of Nudge Cartography? Tune in to this episode as Kurt and Tim decode the project's significance, shedding light on regional variations in responses to behavioral interventions. Join the conversation and embark on a thought-provoking expedition that challenges the norms of behavioral science while providing valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and curious minds alike.
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(0:07) What is Nudge Cartography?
(3:55) Computational social science and mapmaking
(8:21) Mapping behavioral science with experiments
(15:33) The importance of generalizable knowledge in science
(21:29) Developing a nudge experiment database
(28:17) Using data to understand human behavior
(36:25) Closing thoughts, work processes, and musical preferences
(38:23) Grooving on Nudge Cartography
© 2024 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Computational Social Science Lab at UPenn
Musical Links
Classical Music "Best Of" Compilation
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Monday Jan 15, 2024
What is resilience, and how can we cultivate it in our lives? In this episode, delve into the fascinating world of resilience with an exclusive interview featuring Dr. Jonathan DePierro, author of the insightful book "Resilience." Join Kurt and Tim as Dr. DePierro defines resilience as more than just bouncing back; it's the ability to adapt, recover, and grow stronger in the face of life's challenges.
Discover the practical applications of resilience skills in navigating everyday stressors and gain a deeper understanding of the brain science behind building resilience through the power of social support. Dr. DePierro shares his experiences working with 9/11 responders and healthcare professionals during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, offering valuable insights into how resilience can be a guiding force in times of crisis.
This episode isn't just about individual resilience – it extends to the organizational level, providing valuable takeaways for creating resilient communities. Learn how to foster a culture of adaptability and growth that can withstand the tests of time.
Tune in to gain a profound understanding of resilience and explore practical strategies for developing it in your own life. Dr. Jonathan DePierro's expertise and real-world experiences make this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking to navigate life's uncertainties with strength and resilience.
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(4:50) Introduction and Speed Round
(8:47) Resilience and Growth in the Face of Challenges
(12:55) Coping with Trauma
(17:23) Resilience, Optimism, and Social Support
(28:58) Building Resilience in Individuals and Organizations
(38:59) The Power of Music to Evoke Memories and Emotions
(45:01) Reframing Experiences and Building Resilience
(48:37) Grooving Session: Resilience and Problem-solving in Challenging times
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Resilience: The Science of Mastering Life's Greatest Challenges
Mount Sinai's Center for Stress, Resilience and Personal Growth
Musical Links
Gregorian Master of Chant Fix You
Hercules Film A Star is Born
Elton John Bennie and the Jets
Earth, Wind, Fire September
Paul Simon You Can Call Me Al
Sunday Jan 07, 2024
Sunday Jan 07, 2024
Kurt and Tim kick off the new year with communications expert Ben Guttmann in an episode on simplifying messages.
Ben's seemingly simple lessons pack a punch, offering a treasure trove of insights into mastering clear and concise communication for both personal and professional success. Join Kurt and Tim as they navigate through Ben's five key principles, uncovering the secrets to crafting communications that truly hit the mark. From prioritizing benefits to maintaining focus, ensuring salience, embracing empathy, and adopting minimalism, the trio explores how these principles can transform your messaging strategy.
Discover how large organizations often lose sight of what customers are looking for and gain valuable insights into Ben’s exploration of effective vs. ineffective slogans and taglines for businesses. Unpack the importance of employing the 10-100 most common words and learn how testing messages with an "enlightened idiot" can be a game-changer.
Whether you're a cog in a corporate machine or an individual seeking to sharpen your communication skills, this episode offers practical lessons on making your message resonate and connect. Kickstart the new year with a communication overhaul and be sure to share this episode with anyone in your life in need of a communication refresh. Don't miss out on the keys to killer communication – like, share, and tune in now!
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(4:29) Introduction and speed round
(9:23) Simplifying communication in a busy world
(14:15) Bridging the gap between message creators and receivers
(23:43) Effective marketing strategies for big corporations
(34:41) The 1000 most common words for clear communication
(39:33) Communicating with aliens and desert island music
(45:59) Grooving Session: Communication and breaking through clutter
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Ben Guttman Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win (and How to Design Them
Randall Munroe Thing Explainer
Musical Links
Harold Faltermeyer Top Gun Anthem
Arcade Fire Everything Now
Monday Jan 01, 2024
Monday Jan 01, 2024
Happy New Year from Kurt and Tim!
As we reflect on the past year, join us in revisiting some of the most impactful and insightful conversations from Behavioral Grooves in 2023. Grateful for the time and wisdom shared by our wonderful guests, we delve into key topics through the lens of behavioral science, aiming to provide you with valuable insights for both your professional and personal life.
From embracing uncertainty and cultivating growth mindsets to exploring the power of "magic words" and understanding your future self, this compilation covers a diverse range of subjects, including the psychology of scams and the challenges of parenting. Settle in, unwind, and take a moment to revisit the highlights of 2023 as we gear up for what the future holds (as much as we can anticipate!).
As always, thank you for listening to Behavioral Grooves. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to many more exciting developments in 2024!
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(2:17) Yael Schonbrun, parenting, and fostering growth mindsets.
(8:48) Nathan and Susannah Furr, embracing uncertainty
and embracing possibility.
(13:23) Jonah Berger, the enchantment of "magic words" and the art of reframing language.
(18:54) Hal Hershfield, navigating your future self and shedding light blind spots
(23:06) Daniel Simons & Chris Chabris, the intricate world of scams, and maintaining hope.
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Nathan & Susannah Furr on Embracing Uncertainty
Monday Dec 25, 2023
Monday Dec 25, 2023
Continuing their pursuit of knowledge, Kurt and Tim explore the impactful books that have shaped their perspectives in 2023. In this episode, they unwrap the highlights of their literary journey, offering listeners a condensed version of why each book made a lasting impression and what readers can expect to gain from delving into these insightful pages.
Discovering one's groove is a nuanced journey, often fueled by new ideas, fresh perspectives, and a revisit to timeless concepts presented in innovative ways. In this annual wrap-up, Kurt and Tim dive into a diverse array of books that have enriched their intellectual tapestry, underscoring the influential role of literature in deepening their understanding of human behavior.
Covering a spectrum of topics, from uncertainty and effective communication to parenting and attention span, this year's Top 10 (or is it 11?) books offer a wide-ranging exploration. If you're searching for insights on a specific topic, chances are it's in one of these books!
Join in to uncover the standout Behavioral Science books of the year and gain insights that can enhance your understanding of human behavior. As always, thank you for being a part of the Behavioral Grooves community this year, and we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the Top 10!
Links
- The Upside of Uncertainty: A Guide to Finding Possibility in the Unknown by Nathan and Susanna Furr
- Writing for Busy Readers by Todd Rogers
- Think Faster, Talk Smarter by Matt Abrahams
- Work, Parent, Thrive by Yael Schonbrun
- Magic Words by Jonah Berger
- Humanizing Rules by Christian Hunt
- Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most by Adam Alter
- Nobody's Fool: Why We Get Taken In, and What We Can Do About It by Dan Simons and Chris Chabris
- Your Future Self by Hal Hershfield
- Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness, and Productivity by Gloria Mark
- The Perfection Trap: Embracing the Power of Good Enough by Thomas Curran
Sunday Dec 17, 2023
Sunday Dec 17, 2023
Have you or someone you know fallen victim to the detrimental effects of Jargon Monoxide? If so, there might be compensation waiting for you.
Joining Kurt and Tim in this episode, Huggy Rao delves into the critical aspects of organizational friction and the looming specter of burnout within workspaces. Huggy underscores the need for clear and transparent communication to escape the wearisome trap of workspeak, identified here as "jargon monoxide."
Tune in for a succinct and transparent conversation as Huggy dissects the challenges organizations encounter with an inherent bias towards addition, prioritizing the incorporation of new elements over the removal of unnecessary ones. He sheds light on the paradoxical scenario where leaders receive accolades for their additive contributions, leaving the significance of subtraction undervalued and misunderstood.
In the episode's conclusion, Kurt and Tim steer the discussion towards reframing friction as an avenue for improvement rather than a hindrance. They explore effective strategies for mitigating workplace friction and beyond, providing valuable insights for those grappling with end-of-the-year work fatigue. Don't miss out on this episode if you're seeking a fresh perspective on navigating workplace challenges.
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(6:12) Intro and Speed Round
(12:21) Good Friction vs Bad Friction
(17:38) Health Pyramids and Reframing the Workplace
(25:07) Rational vs Emotional
(30:25) Corporate time wasters
(37:04) Addition bias and Obliviousness
(45:10) Jargon Monoxide
(54:55) Grooving Session: Strategies for Burnout and Friction
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Musical Links
Camarón De La Isla Como El Agua (Tangos)
Yo Yo Ma - Yo-Yo Ma - Bach: Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, Prélude (Official Video)
Sunday Dec 10, 2023
Sunday Dec 10, 2023
Step into a captivating conversation as Tim and Kurt engage with Lisa Sun, the author of Gravitas. Lisa introduces the intriguing concept that each of us possesses superpowers—not the extraordinary kind, but those that ignite leadership, achievement, and self-belief. In this discussion, Lisa unveils the eight superpowers that make up confidence.
Moving beyond mere behavioral traits, Lisa emphasizes that confidence is fundamentally a mindset. Uncover the key to building self-confidence by recognizing strengths and celebrating past successes. While we may not possess telekinetic abilities, join Lisa, Kurt, and Tim as they explore how shifting our mindset, silencing our inner critic, and reframing challenges as opportunities can foster a stronger sense of self-worth.
This engaging episode offers insights into gender differences in confidence and the societal need for a redefined understanding of this crucial trait. During the Grooving Session, Kurt and Tim share practical strategies for altering perspectives on life's challenges and reframing emotions for better understanding and management.
Ready to unlock your mental superpowers? Join Lisa, Kurt, and Tim in this enlightening episode and embark on your journey to a more confident self.
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Topics
(2:37) Intro and Speed Round
(4:06) Creativity, self-confidence, and personal growth
(9:09) Ageism, self-doubt, and confidence
(12:15) Building self-confidence
(20:45) Inner child and inner critic
(25:58) Self-awareness, self-confidence, and overcoming fears
(35:48) Leadership qualities, gender, and confidence
(41:32) Workplace culture and gender bias
(53:11) Grooving Session: Confidence and self-expression
© 2023 Behavioral Grooves
Links
Kelly Shue and Women’s Promotions
Musical Links
John Lennon “Imagine” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkgkThdzX-8
The King and I “Shall We Dance” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgVPnWmUqd4
Boys II Men “Motownphilly” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rciee-oQLoI
Mariah Carey “We Belong Together” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0habxsuXW4g