AJ Jacobs, a bestselling author and serial experimenter known for immersive projects like 'The Year of Living Biblically,' shares his latest venture about living according to the U.S. Constitution. He revives the festive spirit of Democracy by reintroducing Election Cakes, connecting civic pride with joyous communal baking. The conversation also emphasizes 'epistemic humility,' urging listeners to embrace openness and curiosity in a world filled with misinformation. With a mix of humor and historical reflection, AJ inspires a deeper engagement in democracy.

In this discussion, Nick Epley, a behavioral scientist at the University of Chicago, delves into the loneliness epidemic and the paradox of avoiding social interactions despite their benefits. He highlights how anxiety and misconceptions deter us from reaching out to others, even when those connections could be rewarding. Drawing on fascinating research examples, Epley encourages curiosity and openness to enrich our social lives. Discover how our beliefs impact our relationships and why even a simple hello can lead to unexpected joy.

 Ever wondered what it would be like to snag a backstage pass to history’s biggest moments? In Groove Jams' maiden voyage, Kurt, Tim, and special guest Christian Hunt take on the ultimate bucket list item: time travel. Prepare for a wild ride that’s part history lesson, part “what could possibly go wrong?” Tune in for a rollercoaster of laughs, deep thoughts, and ethical dilemmas as we explore the slippery slope of time-hopping. What are the risks and rewards? Could curiosity lead to chaos? And most importantly, could we save the Beatles from Yoko Ono?  

Co-hosts, meet co-creation! This week, Kurt and Tim are joined by special guests Aransas Savas and Dave Norton, hosts of the Experience Strategy Podcast. Together, they take on one of the biggest challenges companies face: truly understanding what their customers want and need. Data can be valuable, but how useful is it if you don’t fully grasp the “what” or “why” behind those numbers? Aransas and Dave explain why co-creating with customers is a more effective approach than relying solely on data or assumptions. They dive into how blending behavioral science with experience strategy can create lasting value for both customers and companies, while also breaking through common barriers like internal fears, egos, and dreaded groupthink (shudder). Listen in to discover how experience strategy complements behavior change and why clinging to past successes can lead to blind spots in a rapidly evolving market. Ready to take your customer experience strategy to the next level? Tune in and join the conversation—because the future of your business depends on truly understanding your customers. And share your thoughts with Kurt and Tim in our new Facebook Group! © 2024 Behavioral Grooves Book a time to talk to Tim about Behavioral Grooves here Topics [0:00] Introduction: Customer needs and preferences [3:14] Housekeeping: BG Updates! [5:29] Speed Round [9:35] Customer trends and the importance of outside perspectives [20:51] Challenges in engaging customers and the role of behavior change [26:42] Common pitfalls to avoid [30:30] Grooving session: customer engagement, listening, and considering needs © 2024 Behavioral Grooves Links  The Experience Strategy Podcast Subscribe to our YouTube for Groove Jams! Join our Groove Community!

And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for (even if you didn’t know you were waiting)... Introducing Groove Jams! Tim and Kurt are launching an exciting new video-first mini-series where they dive into wild hypothetical scenarios and tackle thought-provoking questions about human behavior—and so much more. With help from some fan-favorite guests, each episode kicks off with an intriguing question that pushes the limits of imagination and reveals fresh perspectives on the world. Get ready for laughs, “aha” moments, and maybe even a few WTFs, every few weeks starting this October! Subscribe on YouTube to be the First to See Groove Jams!

Scott Young, a seasoned behavioral science practitioner and author, shares invaluable insights into applying behavioral science in the workplace. He discusses practical strategies for improving work environments by refining existing policies rather than overhauling them. Topics include defining behavior change, overcoming organizational resistance, and implementing a structured process for workplace success. Scott emphasizes the need for alignment between goals and existing challenges, offering a roadmap for business leaders to foster meaningful change.

Kurt and Tim dive into the evolving political landscape as the 2024 election approaches. They tackle 'nut picking,' where media highlights extremes to sway public opinion, and the troubling rise in violent rhetoric stemming from this divisive narrative. Highlighting the impact of personal preferences and confirmation bias, they advocate for bridging divides through compassionate curiosity. The discussion emphasizes the importance of informed voting and collaborative initiatives, offering hope for a less polarized future.

Jan Voelkl, a Stanford postdoc specializing in affective polarization, discusses the emotional rift that's widening political divides. He reveals research showing a notable decline in positive feelings between parties over decades. The conversation includes innovative, game-based approaches to reduce this polarization and foster cooperation. Other insights come from Kati Kirsch Bar-On and Yph Lelkes, who provide philosophical and historical perspectives, respectively, on how to navigate and heal these divisions. Hope for a more unified future is palpably present.

Delve into the captivating dynamics of group identity with the Robbers Cave Experiment, revealing how ‘us vs. them’ mentalities quickly form. Discover how geography shapes political views and whether polarization is worsening or simply more visible. The dialogue explores how personal beliefs influence decision-making, even against self-interest. Sports betting is examined as a lens for understanding loyalty's impact on rational choices. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexities of polarization and the urgent need for cooperation and diverse perspectives.

Delve into the roots of political polarization in the U.S., tracing its rise from the late '60s through the impact of cable news. Explore insights from experts at MIT’s conference on the role of perception and misinformation. Discover how political elites shape discourse and the complex interplay between competition and cooperation in human behavior. Learn innovative strategies aimed at overcoming division and fostering respectful dialogue. This discussion offers a hopeful perspective on finding common ground amid growing societal divides.