Behavioral Grooves Podcast

Ever wondered why people cling to lucky socks for game day? The podcast dives into the fascinating world of superstitions, exploring how irrational beliefs create a sense of control and community. Humor meets psychology as they discuss the illusion of control in sports fandom. Listeners learn about the emotional comfort derived from these rituals and the social connections they foster among fans. From BF Skinner’s pigeons to the psychological benefits of belonging, this exploration makes you rethink your own superstitions!

UX leader Alexis Mook joins us to talk about breaking bias in product design, defending the role of behavioral research inside corporate structures, and making the leap from academia to tech. From wrongful convictions to third-party testing, this conversation reveals why saying “no” might be a researcher’s greatest superpower. Topics [0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Alexis Mook [7:50] Alexis’s Role and Journey at IBM [20:58] Challenges and Biases in UX Research [22:03] Impact of Research on Product Development [31:49] The Shift from Academia and Career Satisfaction [43:10] Grooving Session: Reducing Bias and Challenging Overconfidence ©2025 Behavioral Grooves Links Alexis on LinkedIn Join the Behavioral Grooves community Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube Musical Links Miley Cyrus - Flowers Blink-182 - All the Small Things

Zach Mercurio, author of 'The Power of Mattering,' dives deep into the essential human need for recognition. He discusses how mattering transforms personal and professional interactions, emphasizing that feeling seen and valued is crucial for wellbeing. From impactful leadership strategies to personal stories about the significance of small gestures, Zach highlights how cultivating genuine connections boosts motivation and engagement in the workplace. He also reflects on the role of intentional attention and its power in fostering meaningful relationships.

Olga Khazan, a journalist and author known for her insightful writing on health and culture, dives into the transformative potential of personality change. She shares her journey to become more extroverted and emotionally stable through improv and mindfulness. The discussion highlights the tension between nature and nurture, revealing that personality traits can be shaped by our environments. Olga emphasizes the importance of social connections for personal growth and explores the role of music in uplifting our moods.

Jordan Grumet, a hospice doctor and author, dives into the essence of purpose from his experiences with patients nearing the end of life. He challenges conventional ideas of 'big P' Purpose, suggesting they often create anxiety. Instead, he advocates for 'little p' purposes—simple joys and daily activities that connect us. Grumet shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on embracing small pleasures and overcoming perfectionism, encouraging a life rich in meaningful yet accessible pursuits. Discovering joy in the little things is the true pathway to fulfillment.

Dive into the emotional complexities of feeling stuck and the psychological barriers to personal growth. Discover how fear and comfort zones hold us back, and learn behavioral science strategies to push through inertia. Explore the 'faking it till you make it' concept to boost self-confidence and navigate professional challenges. Engage with community support while embracing risk and change. Trust your instincts and step beyond the familiar to unlock new potentials.

Emily Falk, a neuroscientist and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the fascinating world of decision-making. She discusses how our brains value information, from seemingly trivial choices to serious social interactions. Falk explains the interplay of emotional and rational factors in shaping our decisions and emphasizes the importance of reducing defensiveness for better communication. The conversation also touches on how music and shared experiences can enhance social relevance and strengthen connections in both personal and professional settings.

Faisal Naru, founder of Think, Test, Do, discusses the significant rise of behavioral science in public policy since 2010. He highlights how nations in the Global South are leveraging these insights to tackle complex issues like poverty and health. Naru advocates for embedding behavioral science teams within organizations for long-lasting change, moving beyond quick fixes. The conversation touches on the stark differences between Global North and South approaches and emphasizes the need for collaborative strategies in addressing wicked problems globally.

Elizabeth Weingarten, author of "How to Fall in Love with Questions," explores how asking better questions can lead to personal growth and deeper connections. She discusses the transformative power of inquiry, sharing personal stories and insights from behavioral science. Elizabeth categorizes questions into types that help manage uncertainty and anxiety, emphasizing patience and curiosity as essential for resilience. Her reflections encourage embracing a mindset that prioritizes questions over answers, guiding listeners towards greater self-awareness.

Mark Fabian, an economist and philosopher at the University of Warwick, shares insights from his book 'Beyond Happiness.' He challenges the conventional pursuit of happiness, advocating for a values-driven life and the importance of self-awareness. Mark introduces the concept of 'generalized flow' as a key to fulfillment, emphasizing the journey rather than the destination. He discusses harmonizing identities and the uplifting role of community, ultimately encouraging listeners to find joy in everyday experiences and rethink personal well-being.