

#651
Mentioned in 67 episodes
Alchemy
The Dark Art and Curious Science of Creating Magic in Brands, Business and Life
Book • 2021
In this book, Rory Sutherland explores the art and science of creating magic in brands, business, and life.
He combines scientific research with entertaining stories and case studies from his career, including campaigns for AmEx and Microsoft.
Sutherland emphasizes the importance of understanding human behavior, highlighting how decisions are often influenced by subtle external signals rather than objective qualities.
The book challenges traditional marketing strategies by advocating for a more holistic and creative approach, using techniques such as storytelling, social proof, and framing to influence consumer decisions.
It also explores how these principles can be applied to various social aims beyond just selling products.
He combines scientific research with entertaining stories and case studies from his career, including campaigns for AmEx and Microsoft.
Sutherland emphasizes the importance of understanding human behavior, highlighting how decisions are often influenced by subtle external signals rather than objective qualities.
The book challenges traditional marketing strategies by advocating for a more holistic and creative approach, using techniques such as storytelling, social proof, and framing to influence consumer decisions.
It also explores how these principles can be applied to various social aims beyond just selling products.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 67 episodes
Recommended by 

as a great book on marketing.


Nir Eyal

8,914 snips
How to Stay Focused and Beat Distraction - Nir Eyal
Mentioned by 

as a book containing a story about buying a second-hand car.


Rory Sutherland

2,641 snips
How to Think Like a World-Class Marketer | Rory Sutherland
Mentioned by 

when describing his book about turning perceived product weaknesses into strengths using psychological insights.


Rory Sutherland

1,923 snips
Killer marketing secrets that always work (ft. Ogilvy Adman, Rory Sutherland)
Recommended by 

as a book that delves into the psychology of various experiences.


Nir Eyal

1,303 snips
Strategies for becoming less distracted and improving focus | Nir Eyal (author of Indistractable and Hooked)
Mentioned by 

as 

's book, highlighting his views on psychology in problem-solving.


Lenny Rachitsky


Rory Sutherland

849 snips
What most people miss about marketing | Rory Sutherland (Vice Chairman of Ogilvy UK, author)
Mentioned by 

as a book that explores the power of psychology in marketing.


Rory Sutherland

182 snips
Rory Sutherland on why marketing is the answer to economic growth
Mentioned by 

as a book he intends to read next (suggested by Martin in chat).


Mike Schmitz

163 snips
252: The Book of Elon by Eric Jorgenson
Mentioned by 

, describing his writing style and the publisher's reaction to it.


Rory Sutherland

159 snips
Rory Sutherland | Talebian Thinking Applied To Marketing
Mentioned as one of Richard and Michael's favorite books.

159 snips
Interview: Rory Sutherland, author of Alchemy, on why irrational ideas work
Recommended by 

as an antidote to the AI obsession, highlighting unpredictability and human irrationality in behavior and marketing.


Chris Davis

148 snips
Beating the S&P For Generations with Davis Funds Chairman Chris Davis








