Sure these personal tales of con-men, cave dwellers, and African hunters are captivating audio-dramas. But with meticulous research and knock-your-socks-off analysis, Andrew Webb (Stanford University Behavior Design Lab) explains how these stories of the past can help you apply modern behavioral science. In each episode you walk away with a MicroBehavior—a small action that takes the best research out of the lab and into your life so you flourish at home, work, and relationships.

Season 1

Why We Judge Others: The Curious Case of Carl Akeley

He hunted African animals and tallied massive kill counts. So is Carl Akeley a murderer? Or something else entirely? His story forces us to explore one of our favorite pastimes: judging others. But more importantly, he’ll show us how to rise above it. 

I’m ‘Addicted’ to my Phone: Escaping the Digital Cave

He spent six months alone in a cave underground. Darkness. Bats. And a whole lot of guano! This caveman was also a product and victim of technology. Something we can all relate to. 

Overcoming Stress and Fear: The Courageous Actor

The most famous actor risked death to save a stranger. The Dangerous Sports Club introduces the world to bungee jumping. And the world’s worst interview. All of these teach us about fear and stress. They’ll also show us how to manage them in life.

The Paradox of Wisdom: Gambling with the Mind

Sam hates gambling. So why does he grow up to invest with loan sharks and con-men? The answer is only obvious after we evaluate the mind’s journey from birth to death. Our brains change with every decision we make. And wisdom isn’t always about being right. 

Part 1: The Myths of Habits (Flying Blind)

Flying alone at 14,000 feet Jim suffers a stroke. And one man’s habits save an entire country from annihilation. You can’t make these stories up! But you can make up the myths we believe about habits.

Part 2: The Truth About Habits (Driving on the Right Side)

At exactly 4:50 AM the entire country changed the side of the road they drove on. Pandemonium? Or a perfect template for changing habits in our own lives? BJ Fogg would argue the latter.