
Behavioral Science For Brands: Leveraging behavioral science in brand marketing.
The Consumer Behavior Lab is dedicated to teaching marketersacross the United States how behavioral science principles can beapplied to help their brands. By decoding the underlying motivationsof how consumers make decisions, the CBL seeks to make a betterindustry - where both brands and agencies put proven sciencebehind their decision making.
Latest episodes

Sep 26, 2024 • 44min
Interview: Matt Johnson, author of Blindsight, on the behavioral science lessons of Pret a Manger and Perrier
Matt Johnson, author of 'Blindsight,' shares his expertise in behavioral science and branding. He highlights how Pret a Manger uses uncertain rewards to keep customers engaged. Perrier's entry into the U.S. market is framed through the lens of essentialism, showcasing the power of product origin stories. Johnson emphasizes the importance of marketing to groups rather than individuals, exploring how surprise elements can enhance consumer loyalty. His insights stress the need for brands to understand and leverage cognitive psychology in their marketing strategies.

12 snips
Sep 12, 2024 • 48min
Interview: Kate Waters, director of client strategy at ITV, on how the AA, Zoe and Spotify use behavioral science
Kate Waters, an ad agency founder, dives into the fascinating world of behavioral science in marketing. She highlights how the Automobile Association transformed its image into a 'fourth emergency service' through strategic language changes. The discussion also covers Spotify's unique features like Spotify Wrapped, showcasing how social influence shapes engagement. Waters emphasizes the critical balance between data-driven decisions and creativity, and shares insights on overcoming choice paralysis in digital platforms.

15 snips
Aug 29, 2024 • 30min
How Starbucks used scarcity to create the cult of the Pumpkin Spiced Latte
Discover how Starbucks transformed the Pumpkin Spice Latte into a seasonal icon by mastering the art of scarcity. From its cultural significance to nostalgic flavors, it explores how limited availability drives consumer desire. Comparisons with other seasonal treats reveal the psychological allure behind scarcity in marketing. Nostalgia also plays a crucial role, influencing pricing and deepening emotional connections with customers. Dive into the sweet intersection of marketing strategies and childhood memories!

8 snips
Aug 15, 2024 • 27min
How Disney uses the peak-end rule to manage queues and spark joy
Discover how Disney skillfully uses behavioral principles to enhance visitor experiences. Learn about the peak-end rule and how it shapes memories of joy while minimizing wait times. Hear about innovative technology like MagicBands that revolutionizes customer interaction and payment processes. The discussion also uncovers ways brands can empower shoppers, highlighting unique methods to boost engagement. Dive into the takeaways on improving key moments to create lasting impressions in a brand's experience.

Aug 14, 2024 • 45min
Interview: Owain Service, former MD of the UK Behavioural Insights Team, on how to apply psychology in the public sector
Owain Service, cofounder and former managing director of the UK's Behavioral Insights Team, dives into how behavioral science can transform marketing. He highlights how scarcity influences consumer desire, using the example of a coveted tortilla in San Sebastian. The concept of using randomized controlled trials to enhance policy and marketing effectiveness is discussed, along with insights on designing consumer choices through apps. Service emphasizes the importance of experimental approaches in making informed decisions about brand strategies and consumer behavior.

Jun 3, 2024 • 37min
Summer holidays: using nostalgia to increase willingness to pay
The podcast dives into how nostalgia fuels summer vacation marketing, highlighting differences between UK and US experiences. It explores innovative tourism strategies that encourage environmental commitment, like the Palau pledge. There's also a clever look at negative advertising, using a one-star review to attract niche audiences. The speakers share personal summer memories and discuss how acknowledging product flaws can enhance trust in brands. Ultimately, it advocates for transparency in marketing, making summer memories feel even more special.

May 28, 2024 • 30min
Football: The Lessons Behind ActionThe marketing lessons from penalty kicks: The lessons behind action bias and fluent devices Bias and Fluent Devices
In this episode, we examine pre-disposed decisions that prioritzes acting versus maintaining the status quo, due to optics.

May 6, 2024 • 26min
How Liquid Death broke category norms to stand out from the crowd
Exploring Liquid Death's success in breaking bottled water norms with disruptive branding and innovative marketing campaigns. Discussing the challenges of CMO tenure and the power of provocative advertising. Analyzing unconventional marketing strategies and the importance of being a niche brand.

9 snips
Apr 30, 2024 • 37min
Kentucky derby: gambling and the danger of overconfidence
Exploring the dangers of overconfidence in data-driven marketing decisions and practical strategies to combat it. Also, discussing how consumer behavior influences attitude in brand marketing and innovative approaches like sending free product samples to boost brand metrics. Additionally, delving into the historical origins and impact of the Kentucky Derby and the intertwined culture of horse racing and gambling.

Apr 18, 2024 • 33min
Three biases that promote sustainable behaviour
In this episode, we take a look at the biases that promote sustainability and how the sustainability movement can be applied to brands.