Maurice Schweitzer

In this insightful conversation, best-selling author Matthew Polly shares his thoughts on Bruce Lee’s complex legacy, revealing key nuances that shape our collective memory of the martial arts icon. Alongside him, Maurice Schweitzer, a behavioral economics expert, delves into how our memories are influenced by selective retention, highlighting the peak-end rule. They discuss how recognizing the impact of memorable moments can enhance workplace satisfaction and decision-making, ultimately transforming how we perceive experiences.

Winning feels good. Whether it’s nailing a tricky golf shot or landing a big client for your firm, it’s nice to come out on top. But is it the thrill of victory that pushes you to sink that 10-foot putt or compels you to put in a few extra hours at work? Or is it the fear of losing that motivates you more? In this episode of Choiceology with Katy Milkman, we examine a bias that affects the irrational way people often react to gains and losses. The episode begins with the heartbreaking story of Robbie Powell. A missed medical diagnosis and an elaborate cover up expose the lengths to which some people are willing to go in order to avoid a hit to their reputations. You’ll hear from professor Dolly Chugh from New York University’s Stern School. Dolly and collaborator Molly Kern have done some great research demonstrating how people behave differently when making ethical choices in the face of a potential loss versus a potential gain. You can learn more about this phenomenon in her book How Good People Fight Bias: The Person You Mean to Be. Then renowned golf coach Hank Haney describes how Tiger Woods and other golf pros seem to work harder to avoid bogeys on the putting green than they do to make birdies. According to Wharton School professor Maurice Schweitzer, professional golfers may be missing out on hundreds of thousands of dollars in winnings because of this tendency. And he’s got research to prove it. Finally, Katy will leave you with practical tips on how to limit the influence of this bias in your own decisions. Choiceology is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/podcast. If you enjoy the show, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important Disclosures: All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed. (1018-8PYL)

Maurice Schweitzer, a Wharton professor specializing in operations, information, and decisions, sheds light on managing workplace anxiety. He discusses how to transform anxiety into excitement by focusing on positive outcomes. Schweitzer emphasizes the importance of rituals as coping mechanisms and shares a fascinating case study on how singing can help reduce anxiety levels. He also outlines essential strategies for leaders to identify triggers and effectively assist their teams in overcoming anxiety, ultimately enhancing productivity.

Maurice Schweitzer, a Wharton School professor focusing on emotions and ethics, dives into the recent cheating scandals that have swept across chess, fishing, poker, and Irish dancing. He reveals the societal implications of these controversies, questioning why we are so invested in issues of integrity. Schweitzer discusses the pressures that drive individuals to cheat and how our reactions may reflect deeper aspects of human nature. Ultimately, he offers a glimmer of hope, emphasizing the importance of trust and honesty in our interactions, even in the face of dishonesty.

Einav Hart, a cognitive scientist from George Mason University, and Maurice Schweitzer, a Wharton School professor, dive into the art of asking sensitive questions. They discuss how societal norms often keep us from addressing topics like money and politics, despite research suggesting these fears may be unfounded. The duo highlights the potential for deeper connections through open dialogue and examines the role of cultural influences and personal experiences in shaping our willingness to engage in such conversations. Embracing discomfort can lead to richer relationships!