Why willpower alone doesn’t work

Nudge - Marketing Science Podcast by Phill Agnew

May 4, 202625:14Business

Three thousand years ago, Odysseus tied himself to a mast to resist the Sirens. He didn't trust his willpower, so he removed the choice entirely. Today, Owain Service, co-founder of the Behavioural Insights Team and CEO...

Related Episodes

Continue listening to more episodes from Nudge - Marketing Science Podcast.

The worst mistake to make on Dragon’s Den / Shark Tank

Sep 7, 2026 - 25:29

There’s one simple tactic that makes entrepreneurs 6x more likely to get funding. At least that’s accordi...

Are metrics controlling your life?

Aug 31, 2026 - 34:57

Have you ever finished a book you dislike just to say you’ve finished it? Have you loaded up Duolingo at...

The mental tricks used to break the 2-hour marathon

Aug 24, 2026 - 23:55

On April 26th, 2026, Sebastian Sawe did what many thought was impossible. Running the marathon in under t...

How much should you reveal to your co-workers

Aug 17, 2026 - 25:14

In 1997, Miss USA won Miss Universe with one perfectly judged answer. She revealed just enough to charm,...

Katy Milkman: “Here’s how to make exercise fun”

Aug 10, 2026 - 24:13

Katy Milkman shares one technique that could keep you exercising for 55% longer. --- Become an FSB member...

Why fear won’t always persuade

Aug 3, 2026 - 27:36

To persuade someone, most of us are tempted to use fear. We tell clients how much they’ll struggle if the...

How these two marketers manipulate your music taste

Jul 27, 2026 - 30:41

In a fairly inconspicuous SXSW podcast, two marketers shook the music industry. Jesse Coren and Andrew Sp...

Can balsamic vinegar make beer better?

Jul 20, 2026 - 28:35

In 2007, two Harvard researchers added a splash of balsamic vinegar to beer. When drinkers knew the beer...