227. Why Doing One New Thing Every Week Could Change Your Life, with behavioural scientist Patrick Fagan

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. I’m Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott, joined as always by business owner Al Elliott, and together we simplify the science of work.

This week’s guest is Patrick Fagan — behavioural scientist, bestselling author, and consultant on influence and psychology. Patrick spent a year doing something completely new every single week, from joining cults to attending cuddle workshops, from My Little Pony conventions to colonic irrigation, all to see how novelty shapes happiness, memory, and meaning.

His reflections are part science, part personal experiment — and the lessons go way beyond fun stories. They show us how leaders, teams, and individuals can use novelty and experience design to build happier, more connected, and more creative lives.

🔥 What We Cover

📌 The science of novelty and happiness Why our brains crave new experiences — and how they can literally make life feel longer.

📌 52 weeks, 52 experiments From cult meetings to cuddle workshops, what Patrick learned by pushing himself into the uncomfortable and unusual.

📌 Pleasure vs purpose The psychology of why struggle and awkwardness can create deeper meaning than comfort alone.

📌 From marketing to management What behavioural science and experiential retail can teach leaders about creating workplaces that people remember.

📌 Practical takeaways Why even small changes — like trying a new recipe or changing your work setting — can transform how you feel about life and work.

🎧 Want more from Patrick Fagan?
– Website (consulting, behavioural science): https://patrickfagan.co.uk/
– “Just Do Stuff” blog (Patrick’s 52 experiences): https://justdostuff.co.uk/

🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being
– Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/
– Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

📬 Connect with Al & Leanne
– LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork
– Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott
– Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne
– Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com
– Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat