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

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

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

By: Melina Palmer
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About this listen

Consumers are weird. They don't do what they say they will do and don't act how we think they "should." Enter Melina Palmer, a sales conversion expert with a personal mission to make your business more effective and brain friendly. In this podcast, Melina will take the complex concepts of behavioral economics (the study and science of why people buy - or not) and provide simple, actionable tips you can apply right away in your business. Whether you're a small business or thriving corporation, Melina's tips can help your business increase sales and get more customers.TheBrainyBusiness Economics Marketing Marketing & Sales Science Social Sciences
Episodes
  • 563. The Human Touch in AI
    Feb 5 2026

    In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes Nick Glimsdahl, author of The Heart of Service, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on customer experience. As businesses increasingly turn to AI, the conversation tackles the critical question: how can organizations implement these technologies effectively without losing the human touch?

    Nick shares insights on the alarming statistic that up to 95% of AI initiatives fail, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful implementation and the need for organizations to ask better questions upfront. Together, they explore strategies for integrating AI in ways that enhance both efficiency and empathy, ensuring that customer interactions remain meaningful and authentic.

    Listeners will gain practical advice on how to identify low-hanging fruit for AI projects, the significance of user acceptance training, and the value of involving frontline employees in the decision-making process. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of AI in their business while keeping customer experience at the forefront.

    In this episode:

    • Discover the challenges and opportunities that AI presents in customer service.
    • Learn how to ask better questions to ensure successful AI implementation.
    • Explore the balance between efficiency and empathy in customer interactions.
    • Understand the importance of involving frontline employees in the AI journey.
    • Gain insights into real-world examples of successful AI integration in organizations.

    Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/563.

    Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?

    • Learn With Us on our website.
    • Subscribe to Melina's Newsletter Brainy Bites.

    Let's connect:

    • Send Us a Message
    • Follow Melina on LinkedIn
    • The Brainy Business on Youtube
    • The Brainy Business on Instagram
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • 562. The Paradox of Choice
    Jan 29 2026

    In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer revisits the captivating concept of the Paradox of Choice. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by options when shopping, scrolling through streaming services, or planning a vacation? This episode dives deep into why having too many choices can lead to decision paralysis, stress, and ultimately dissatisfaction.

    Melina discusses the foundational work of Barry Schwartz, who popularized this idea, and explores how the abundance of options can actually diminish our sense of freedom and well-being. Through relatable examples, including the infamous jam study and the complexities of online dating, listeners will understand how too many choices can lead to superficial decision-making and regret.

    As you listen, reflect on the choices you present to your customers and consider how simplifying options could enhance their buying experience. This episode not only highlights the pitfalls of excess choice but also provides actionable tips for both individuals and businesses to navigate decision-making more effectively.

    In this episode:

    • Discover the origins and implications of the Paradox of Choice in everyday life.
    • Learn how too many options can lead to decision paralysis and dissatisfaction.
    • Explore relatable examples, including the jam study and the impact of choice on dating.
    • Understand the differences between maximizers and satisficers and how they approach decision-making.
    • Gain insights on how to simplify choices for your customers to enhance their buying experience.

    Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/562.

    Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?

    • Learn With Us on our website.
    • Subscribe to Melina's Newsletter Brainy Bites.

    Let's connect:

    • Send Us a Message
    • Follow Melina on LinkedIn
    • The Brainy Business on Youtube
    • The Brainy Business on Instagram
    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
  • 561. Building Trust Through Vulnerability w/ Leslie John
    Jan 22 2026

    In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer sits down with Leslie John, a behavioral scientist at Harvard Business School and author of the thought-provoking book, Revealing: The Underrated Power of Oversharing. Together, they challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding sharing personal information, arguing that the real risk lies not in oversharing, but in undersharing.

    Leslie's research reveals that revealing more about ourselves can strengthen connections, foster trust, and enhance decision-making in both personal and professional contexts. As they explore the nuances of sharing, Melina and Leslie discuss the importance of context, the dynamics of vulnerability versus transparency, and how these concepts play out in workplace interactions, especially during high-stakes scenarios like job interviews.

    Listeners will be encouraged to reflect on their own sharing habits and consider how a little more openness might improve their relationships and effectiveness at work. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills and build deeper connections with others.

    In this episode:

    • Discover the concept of TLI (Too Little Information) and its impact on relationships.
    • Learn how oversharing can actually lead to stronger connections and trust.
    • Understand the difference between transparency and vulnerability in communication.
    • Explore strategies for effectively sharing information in workplace settings.
    • Gain insights into the role of authenticity in job interviews and professional interactions.

    Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/561.

    Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?

    • Learn With Us on our website.
    • Subscribe to Melina's Newsletter Brainy Bites.

    Let's connect:

    • Send Us a Message
    • Follow Melina on LinkedIn
    • The Brainy Business on Youtube
    • The Brainy Business on Instagram
    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
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