About this episode

The episode explores how behavioral science can lead to happier and more impactful environmental choices.

Climate change conversations often focus on sacrifice, but what if the path to a healthier planet also made us happier? We sit down with Leave the Lights On authors Liz Dunn and Jiaying Zhao to explore how behavioral science can help us focus on the environmental choices that matter most, why social influence is more powerful than guilt, and how small, joyful decisions can create lasting change. Topics [0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Liz Dunn & Jiaying "JZ" Zhao [9:03] Why Your Neighbors Influence You More Than Climate Facts [13:09] High Impact Climate Choices That Actually Matter [17:05] Scarcity, Happiness, and Enjoying More by Having Less [24:00] Leave the Lights On: The Carbon Math That Changes Everything [27:05] Why Where You Live Matters More Than You Think [31:17] Remote Work, Happiness, and Carbon Emissions [37:34] Everyday Climate Decisions That Make the Biggest Difference [42:10] Creating Upward Spirals of Joy [44:49] Why Sharing Your Choices Influences Others [47:57] The Environmental Cost of AI [50:58] Desert Island Music Picks [53:42] Grooving Session: Show Don't Tell Leadership ©2026 Behavioral Grooves Links Leave the Lights On by Liz Dunn and Jiaying Zhao…

People in this episode

Hosts: Kurt Nelson, Tim Houlihan

Guests: Liz Dunn, Jiaying Zhao

Topics covered

• climate change
• behavioral science
• social influence
• environmental choices
• happiness
• joyful decisions

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Leave the Lights On

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