Something You Should Know The Psychology of Brand Loyalty & The Strange History of Everyday Words
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Nov 17, 2025 Michael Aaron Flicker, founder of the Consumer Behavior Lab, delves into brand loyalty and the psychological tricks businesses use, revealing how Apple and Starbucks tap into our subconscious. He explains concepts like the sunk-cost effect with Amazon Prime and the allure of nostalgic products like Pumpkin Spice. Martha Barnette, co-host of A Way with Words, explores the quirky origins of everyday words, how dialects shape language, and the evolution of terms like 'selfie'. Together, they provide insights into consumer behavior and the rich tapestry of the English language.
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Elevators Are Safer Than You Think
- Elevator free-fall is almost never the cause of injuries; only one documented cable-snap free-fall occurred in 1945.
- Most elevator injuries (~30/year) stem from door malfunctions or maintenance, making elevators very safe compared with stairs or escalators.
Brands Win By Steering The Subconscious
- Brands shape buying by positioning themselves in buyers' minds through emotional and behavioral cues.
- Behavioral science explains why brand strategies like positioning and consistency drive customer preference.
Prime Turns Fees Into Loyalty
- Amazon Prime leverages sunk-cost and consistency to increase repeat spending after an upfront fee.
- Prime members spend more despite cheaper alternatives because they want to justify their initial investment.
