Best Tim Houlihan Podcasts (2025)

1
Tim Houlihan & Dr Kurt Nelson on Behavioural Experiments, Podcasting, and Innovation 1:32:17

18d ago1:32:17

1:32:17

What role does experimentation play in making big life and creative decisions? What lessons can podcasters teach us about effective communication in business? Show Summary To answer these questions, in this festive episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back two friends of the show, two of my favorite podcasters, Tim Houlihan and Kurt Nelson, co-hosts of…

1
Behavioral Science Hacks for Everyday Life | Eva van den Broek and Tim den Heijer 1:08:34

1d ago1:08:34

1:08:34

How can a tiny fly in an airport urinal transform human behavior? This week, we sit down with Eva van den Broek and Tim den Heijer, authors of The Housefly Effect, to uncover how subtle environmental cues can shape our decisions in powerful and surprising ways. With Eva’s expertise in behavioral economics and Tim’s background in advertising, they r…

1
Duncan Mavin on Meltdown: The Collapse of Credit Suisse 1:01:51

2d ago1:01:51

1:01:51

How does a major global bank keep surviving crises; until it doesn't? Episode Summary On this episode, I’m joined by Duncan Mavin, author of Meltdown: Scandal, Sleaze, and the Collapse of Credit Suisse. Duncan’s book dives deep into the bank’s dramatic downfall, uncovering decades of mismanagement, scandals, and cultural clashes that eventually led…

1
Kickstart the New Year and Achieve Your Goals | Ayelet Fishbach 53:28

8d ago53:28

53:28

Happy New Year, Groovers! The start of a new year often brings fresh goals, ambitious resolutions, and a renewed sense of motivation. But what’s the psychology behind this goal-oriented mindset? In our first episode of the year, we’re joined by Dr. Ayelet Fishbach, a renowned expert in behavioral science, to explore the science of achieving goals a…

1
Kit Holden on Played in Germany - a footballing journey through a nation's soul 56:45

9d ago56:45

56:45

What can we learn about a country from its favourite sport? A lot. Particularly when that country has a history and culture like Germany. Which is what I'm exploring on this episode. Even if you're not a football fan, this episode — in a year when Germany goes to the polls — will have something of interest. Episode Summary On this episode, I speak …

1
Building Better Conversations | David Robson [Republish] 1:15:50

15d ago1:15:50

1:15:50

Happy Holidays from Behavioral Grooves! We're taking a week off to get ready for all the new and exciting content we have in store for our listeners coming in 2025. If you'd like to help us make next year's show amazing please help us by filling out the Behavioral Grooves survey here! In the meantime, please enjoy this republish of one of our favor…

1
2024's Best Books to Transform Work, Life, and Thinking 46:14

23d ago46:14

46:14

Want to help us improve Behavioral Grooves? Take our listener survey here! Looking for your next great read? We’ve got you covered! It’s time for our annual Best Books episode, where we share the standout reads that inspired and informed us this year. We’ve organized our picks into four categories—Leadership, Work Life, Relationships, and Critical …

1
Fraser Simpson on Making Ethics Engaging 1:38:32

24d ago1:38:32

1:38:32

What does a pink puppet called Connie have to do with ethics? More than you might think. On this episode, I'm speaking with a lawyer, whose innovative approach to getting employees to engage in ethics, involved turning to something we all know from our childhood, a puppet. Episode Summary That lawyer and my guest on this episode is Fraser Simpson, …

1
Groove Jams: Hypothetical Hangouts – Who Would You Choose? 15:34

27d ago15:34

15:34

If you could spend a whole day with any historical figure, who would it be—and why? In this solo-sode of Groove Jams, we dive into this fascinating question, blending philosophy, psychology, and a bit of fun as we unpack our companion picks. From deep questions to unexpected lessons, we explore the impact of history’s iconic figures and the timeles…

1
Toxic Productivity Is Sabotaging Your Success | Israa Nasir 1:13:52

30d ago1:13:52

1:13:52

What happens when the pursuit of productivity begins to harm your health, relationships, and happiness? In this episode, Israa Nasir joins us to discuss Toxic Productivity—the unhealthy obsession with achievement that can take a toll on your well-being. She outlines key warning signs, like disengagement and emotional dysregulation, and explores how…

1
What If There’s a Better Way to Solve Your Hardest Problems? | Wendy Smith 1:09:24

1M ago1:09:24

1:09:24

Have you ever felt stuck between two seemingly opposite choices or found yourself seeing the world in absolutes? This week, we’re joined by Dr. Wendy Smith, author of Both/And Thinking, to uncover how embracing paradoxes can help us tackle life’s toughest problems. Wendy shares how shifting from an “either/or” to a “both/and” mindset can unlock bet…

1
Jono Hey on Sketchplanations 1:07:52

1M ago1:07:52

1:07:52

Can you distill a complex concept into a single sketch? Jono Hey can and on this episode, he joins me to talk about Sketchplanations —a project that explains the world, one sketch at a time. Summary I’ve been a long-time admirer of Jono’s work, which makes complex ideas accessible and engaging through simple, elegant sketches. We discuss how he man…

1
The Influence Equation: Simple Steps to Persuade Better | Steve Martin 1:10:57

1M ago1:10:57

1:10:57

How can the science of persuasion reshape your workplace? This week, we sit down with Steve Martin to discuss the principles behind his latest book, Influence at Work, and unpack the “influence equation”—a powerful framework that blends evidence, economics, and emotion to drive ethical and effective persuasion. Steve shares actionable strategies fo…

1
Amy Kean on Communicating Effectively 1:03:17

2M ago1:03:17

1:03:17

What makes communicating effectively such a critical skill in today’s world? On this episode, I dive into the fascinating world of communication with Amy Kean, a psychosociologist, educator, and the founder of Good Shout, a company redefining how we teach and communicate. Amy brings her unique blend of humour, honesty, and sharp insights to a conve…

1
Stress-Busting Tips for the Holidays (and Beyond!) 48:03

2M ago48:03

48:03

Between job uncertainty, political tension, holiday anxiety, and the general state of the world, stress and emotional exhaustion are at an all-time high. In this special ‘emergency episode’ ahead of the holidays, we break down why humans often unintentionally create stress through perception—and how our brain’s negativity bias amplifies it. As you …

1
The Simple Shift That Transforms Employee Engagement | Brad Shuck 54:46

2M ago54:46

54:46

What makes a workplace truly thrive? This week, Brad Shuck returns to share how practicing gratitude as an intentional discipline can transform employee engagement and appreciation. We dive into Brad’s three key factors driving workplace culture and productivity, exploring real-world examples illustrating how companies can breathe new life into str…

1
Steve Bell on Cartooning 1:17:06

2M ago1:17:06

1:17:06

How does one become a political cartoonist? And what lessons can we learn from their craft? Episode Summary In this episode, I sit down with legendary political cartoonist Steve Bell to explore the artistry and challenges behind his provocative work. From his early struggles as a teacher to his meteoric rise as a satirical voice at The Guardian, St…

1
Groove Jams: Immortality–Blessing or Curse? 25:37

2M ago25:37

25:37

What would you do differently if you could live for 1,000 years? In this episode of Groove Jams, we’re joined by fan-favorite Annie Duke to dive headfirst into the wild possibilities of a much longer life. The conversation kicks off with a controversial babysitting prank that sparked Annie’s lifelong fear of death, leading to a lively debate about …

1
The Downside of Dream Jobs | Jennifer Totsi-Kharas 1:10:46

2M ago1:10:46

1:10:46

This week, we continue exploring jobs, careers, and callings with Jen Totsi-Kharas, co-author of Is Your Work Worth It? For a deeper dive into this topic, check out our conversation with Jen’s co-author, Christopher Michaelson, on last week’s episode! We sit down with Jen to explore the complex nature of work and how it can be defined as a job, car…

1
Dr Eva Van Den Broek & Tim Den Heijer on The Housefly Effect 1:08:24

2M ago1:08:24

1:08:24

How do tiny changes in our surroundings create big impacts on our daily lives? And what does that have to do with house flies? Episode Summary In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Eva Van Den Broek and Tim Den Heijer to discuss their new book, The Housefly Effect, which explores the hidden ways behavioral science influences our daily decisi…

1
The Truth About Work and Life Balance | Christopher Michaelson 1:09:53

2M ago1:09:53

1:09:53

Is Your Job a Calling or a Burden? This week, we jump into the deep and sometimes challenging question: what role does work play in a meaningful life? Christopher Michaelson, one of the co-authors of Is Your Work Worth It? joins us to explore the philosophical and practical aspects of how we view work—as a job, a career, or a calling—and the impact…

1
Matt Ballantine on Solving Problems with Randomness 1:04:35

2M ago1:04:35

1:04:35

What if embracing randomness could unlock better decision-making in your work? In this episode, I welcome back Matt Ballantine, a returning guest known for his insightful and playful take on work and life. This time, Matt dives into the concept of randomness and how it can be a strategic tool in navigating complex problems that defy traditional sol…

1
Democracy at the Crossroads: Beyond Party Lines 22:26

2M ago22:26

22:26

Has Behavioral Grooves turned into a political podcast? Not really (ok, maybe kinda it has - but for just a few weeks, we promise ). With the 2024 election days away, however, it’s felt nearly unavoidable for many people, including us. Attending the Norms and Behavior Change Conference (NoBeC), titled, Democracy Under Threat, sparked some essential…

1
Get Out and Vote! 7:22

2M ago7:22

7:22

A special message from Kurt and Tim, all the way from Philadelphia: November 5th is fast approaching, and now, more than ever, participating in democracy matters. Casting your vote isn’t just a civic duty—it’s a way to find your groove in American democracy. Tune in to this short episode for practical advice and inspiration to make your vote count,…

1
Groove Jams: We're Throwing Out the US Constitution! 25:18

3M ago25:18

25:18

What if you could give the U.S. Constitution a makeover? Ahead of the 2024 U.S. election, AJ Jacobs joins Kurt and Tim to dive into the lighter side of politics, taking a playful look at what really needs fixing in America’s founding documents (hint: it starts with grammar). While the spelling of Pennsylvania is no longer up for debate, the trio ta…

1
How Can We Revive Our Democracy? | AJ Jacobs 1:11:40

3M ago1:11:40

1:11:40

Ahead of the 2024 US Election, Kurt and Tim sit down with bestselling author and serial experimenter AJ Jacobs to discuss his latest project, The Year of Living Constitutionally. AJ spent a year living life according to the principles of the U.S. Constitution, adopting 18th-century customs along the way. From wearing tricorn hats and writing with q…

1
Anna Rowe on Romance Scams 1:13:46

3M ago1:13:46

1:13:46

What would you do if someone you trusted turned out to be living a double life? Episode Summary On this episode, I speak with Anna Rowe, a brave and resilient advocate for victims of romance fraud. Anna shares her deeply personal story of being deceived by someone who led a double life, manipulating her emotions and trust for over a year. Her journ…

1
The Loneliness Epidemic: Why Are We Avoiding Social Interactions? | Nick Epley 1:05:33

3M ago1:05:33

1:05:33

Why do we avoid the very thing that could bring us more joy—connecting with others? In this episode, behavioral scientist and human interaction expert Nick Epley returns to the podcast to help Kurt and Tim explore the paradox of social connection. Despite living in a time often described as a loneliness epidemic, many of us still choose to limit ou…

1
Dr. Holly Bell on Curiosity, Road Trips, and Reinvention 1:03:45

3M ago1:03:45

1:03:45

How can road trips and curiosity shape our perspectives on life? In this episode, I speak with Dr Holly Bell, a former professor, author, and spontaneous traveller. Holly’s diverse background, which includes teaching economics, writing thrillers, and even working in corporate management at a Fortune 100 company, is rooted in her insatiable curiosit…

1
Groove Jams: History’s Biggest What-ifs 38:59

3M ago38:59

38:59

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…

1
Top Secrets to Customer Success | Arsanas Savas and Dave Norton 48:17

3M ago48:17

48:17

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…

1
Carissa Carter & Scott Doorley on Assembling Tomorrow 1:03:11

3M ago1:03:11

1:03:11

What role does creativity play in navigating an unpredictable world? On this episode, I sit down with Carissa Carter and Scott Doorley, both members of the Stanford d.school faculty. Together, they’ve co-authored Assembling Tomorrow, a fascinating exploration of how design influences the future, especially amidst the rapid rise of emerging technolo…

1
Coming Soon: Groove Jams! 1:31

3M ago1:31

1:31

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 guest…

1
Top Tips to Transform Your Business | Scott Young 59:06

3M ago59:06

59:06

Now…back to work! We’re back to the weekly grind this week on Behavioral Grooves and exploring a topic Kurt and Tim know like the back of their hands - Behavioral Science in the workplace. Joined by Scott Young, a seasoned behavioral science practitioner with years of experience in the private sector, they dive into how we can improve work environm…

1
Breaking the Cycle of Polarization: What You Can Do for the 2024 Election 15:16

3M ago15:16

15:16

So…is there hope? Kurt and Tim think so! In this wrap-up of our polarization series, Kurt and Tim reflect on how much the political landscape has changed since they started recording last December. With the presidential campaign in full swing and November’s election approaching, it’s more important than ever to critically evaluate the news and info…

1
Steve Martin on Influence At Work 1:09:43

3M ago1:09:43

1:09:43

How can we be better at influencing others? On this episode, I explore the world of influence with behavioural scientist Steve Martin. Steve has made a career out of studying the art and science of persuasion, and in this conversation, we dive deep into his latest book Influence at Work. Together, we unpack how influence is a key part of all aspect…

1
A Less Polarized Future: Real Solutions to Heal Our Divided World 55:27

3M ago55:27

55:27

In the final episode of the polarization series, Kurt and Tim delve into "affective polarization," where emotional distrust, rather than ideological differences, has deepened the divide between political parties. Drawing on insights from the recent MIT conference, they explore how these negative feelings have escalated over time. Stanford postdoc J…

1
Are We Acting Differently Because of Politics? Here’s What the Research Shows 45:25

4M ago45:25

45:25

Why do we so easily form ‘us vs. them’ mentalities, and how does it impact our society? In the second part of this series, Kurt and Tim dive into the psychological roots of polarization, starting with the famous Robbers Cave Experiment. They explore how easily group identities and loyalties form, even among strangers, and how this translates into i…

1
Chloé Valdary on The Theory of Enchantment 1:04:51

4M ago1:04:51

1:04:51

How can watching Disney movies, help create more inclusive environments? The answer is in the word Enchantment. On this episode, I'm speaking to Chloé Valdary, the founder of an organisation called The Theory of Enchantment, to explore her unique approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) training. If you're someone for whom DE&I conjures …

1
What’s Really Driving Political Polarization? The Science Explained 57:55

4M ago57:55

57:55

Are we more divided than ever? How can people see past their differences and come together for the greater good? In this three-part series, Kurt and Tim explore the psychology behind the rise of political polarization in the United States. Tracing its roots back to the late 60s and 70s, they examine how the advent of cable news has played a pivotal…

1
Morgan Hamel on Moral Polarization 1:08:28

4M ago1:08:28

1:08:28

How does moral polarization challenge even the most well-intentioned leaders? In this episode, I speak with Morgan Hamel, who talks frankly about her journey from working in business ethics to launching her own ethical fashion business. In our conversation, Morgan reflects on the complex dynamics of running a business that sought to balance purpose…

1
Healthy Habits Made Simple | Monica Reinagel 1:07:50

4M ago1:07:50

1:07:50

Do you struggle with maintaining healthy eating habits? Are you, like Kurt, stashing Oreos in the basement to avoid temptation? Believe it or not, making small changes to your environment can be more effective for managing your health than relying on willpower alone. This week, Kurt and Tim are joined by nutrition expert Monica Reinagel—an opera si…

1
Chloé Valdary, Morgan Hamel & Peter Stein on De-Polarized Diversity, Equity & Inclusion 55:14

4M ago55:14

55:14

What do you think of when you hear the words Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I)? If it's something negative, then this is the episode for you; because I'm exploring how we can transform DE&I from something theoretical but impractical to something that can really work and have a positive impact for everyone. In other words, how we can de-polarize …

1
The Secret Lives of Cows | Gregory Berns 58:40

4M ago58:40

58:40

Get ready for a moo-ving conversation! This week, Kurt and Tim sit down with Gregory Berns, a psychology professor at Emory University, to explore the secret world of cows. Gregory shares his journey from academic to accidental farmer during the COVID-19 pandemic and how a group of miniature cows changed his life. There’s moo-re to cows than meets …

1
Matt Ottley on Neurodiversity and Creativity 1:08:40

4M ago1:08:40

1:08:40

How does neurodiversity impact creativity? On this episode, I explore the challenges of mental health and how it can be both a driver of astonishing creativity and the cause of significant pain. I believe that having conversations about mental health is crucial if we want to create an inclusive society and get the best out of everyone. To discuss t…

1
Crack the Code: How Women Can Win Big at Work | Alison Fragale 1:09:36

4M ago1:09:36

1:09:36

Do women in the workplace have to choose between being likable and assertive? This week, Alison Fragale, author of The Likable Badass joins Kurt and Tim to look at the challenges women face in the workplace and how they can overcome. With her powerful concept of the “likable badass”, Alison teaches listeners the art of blending warmth with assertiv…

1
Sharon O'Dea on Navigating the Digital Workspace 1:02:13

5M ago1:02:13

1:02:13

What makes a digital workplace truly effective? In this episode, I talk to Sharon O'Dea, co-founder of Lithos Partners, about the intricacies of navigating the digital workplace. Sharon brings her wealth of experience in digital communications and workplace strategies to the table, sharing insights on how organizations can leverage technology to en…

1
Announcing the Decision-Making Studio Podcast 5:49

5M ago5:49

5:49

Introducing the Decision-Making Studio Podcast If you’re a regular listener to the show, you’ll know that it’s all about the risks of human decision-making. I try to bring you guests who can help us to better understand them and what we can do to mitigate them. One of those guests is Ben Cattaneo, the host of his own podcast, which was one of the i…

1
Why Generational Labels Are Holding Your Company Back | Jessica Kriegel 56:25

5M ago56:25

56:25

Are generational labels dead weight? This week—after many technical difficulties and a nearly-forgotten anniversary—Kurt talks with organizational culture expert Jessica Kriegel about generational divides and why they are ultimately pointless and unproductive for both personal and professional growth. Jessica introduces her “culture equation” frame…

1
Danielle Letayf on building a community 1:05:32

5M ago1:05:32

1:05:32

How can passion and irritation lead to innovation and community building? In this episode, my guest is Danielle Letayf, the founder of Badassery, a dynamic community designed for unconventional thought leaders dedicated to igniting change. In our discussion, we delve into the essence of community building, exploring how cognitive diversity and shar…

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