The Brainy Business | Understanding the Psychology of Why People Buy | Behavioral Economics

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Sunita Sah, a physician turned organizational psychologist from Cornell University, dives into her book, 'Defy: The Power of No in a World that Demands Yes.' She highlights the critical role of defiance in maintaining personal integrity, exploring the psychological dynamics of compliance, especially in healthcare. Sunita introduces the concept of 'insinuation anxiety' and the 'defiance compass' to help guide ethical decisions. Listeners will discover how embracing responsibility can transform decision-making and foster a culture of safe dissent.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Vanessa Patrick, a marketing professor and bestselling author, explores the empowering art of saying no. She dives into the psychological barriers that lead us to say yes when we want to refuse, emphasizing the need for personal policies. Vanessa introduces her ART framework—Awareness, Rules, and Totality of Self—to help listeners cultivate boundaries. Discover how declaring 'I don’t' instead of 'I can’t' can transform decision-making and promote personal and professional fulfillment.

Chase Jarvis, an award-winning artist and entrepreneur, shares insights from his book 'Never Play It Safe,' focusing on leveraging intrinsic tools for a fulfilling life. He discusses seven essential tools like attention, failure, and practice. Chase emphasizes the power of constraints in enhancing creativity and encourages listeners to embrace failure as a part of growth. Personal anecdotes highlight the importance of pursuing true passions and transforming everyday tasks into joyful experiences, urging everyone to step outside societal expectations.

Dive into the psychology behind New Year’s resolutions and the reasons why we struggle with commitment. Explore time discounting and anticipated regret, crucial factors that affect decision-making. Uncover the dual nature of willpower, likening it to both a depleting battery and a growing snowball. Discover practical strategies for setting attainable goals and the importance of small, manageable changes. Also, learn how these insights can help businesses better engage with customers.

In this engaging discussion, Jodi Wellman, author of "You Only Die Once" and a passionate advocate for living fully, shares her insights on making the most of our limited time. She explores how embracing mortality can inspire meaningful living rather than fear. Jodi introduces the concept of "4,000 Mondays," reminding us to pursue dreams without regrets. With lively anecdotes, she discusses the importance of prioritizing what truly matters, overcoming inertia, and making small changes that lead to a vibrant, fulfilling life.

Dan Pink, renowned author of Drive and The Power of Regret, discusses how embracing regret can be a positive force. He reveals insights from his research, including the American Regret Project, and outlines four core categories of regret: foundational, boldness, moral, and connection. As the New Year approaches, Dan encourages listeners to reflect on their past regrets to clarify values and guide future decisions. He emphasizes using regret as a tool for personal growth and better decision-making, transforming what seems negative into an opportunity for self-discovery.

Dr. Rob Wolcott, an adjunct professor focused on innovation strategy, and Kaihan Krippendorff, CEO of OutThinker Networks, discuss their book Proximity and its impact on business in a digital age. They explore how technology allows for value creation closer to consumer demand, transforming industries like healthcare and energy. With practical examples from on-demand pharmaceuticals to generative AI, they highlight the future of legacy brands, emphasizing the importance of responsiveness and efficiency in today's rapidly evolving market.

Explore the powerful business insights extracted from NASA's space missions. Learn how problem identification and innovative solutions were key to their success. Discover the importance of testing and timely action in driving progress. Uncover the value of delegation and support for empowering teams. Understand how visibility can rally public engagement and the impact of thoughtful word choice in leadership. This discussion brings valuable lessons from the past into today's business landscape.

In a captivating discussion, Steve Martin, an acclaimed author and expert in persuasion, shares his insights on the influence equation, merging evidence, economics, and emotion for transformational change. He elaborates on the power of reciprocity in crafting strong professional relationships and effective strategies for influencing large organizations. Steve emphasizes the importance of context in influence, advocating for authenticity and sustained effort over quick fixes. Listeners gain valuable tools to enhance their influence in business and beyond.

Delve into the intriguing concept of social proof and its powerful influence on decision-making. Learn about the six types of social proof, from celebrity endorsements to user testimonials. Discover how businesses can effectively harness these strategies to build trust and credibility. Explore the psychological mechanisms that drive consumer behavior and the impact of herding instincts. Gain insights into leveraging social media and influencers for greater brand engagement and success.