About this episode

The episode explores the influential work of Robert Cialdini and the research that shaped his contributions to behavioral science.

We kick off our three-part series on Robert Cialdini by exploring the research, mentors, and discoveries that shaped one of behavioral science's most influential thinkers. From social proof and energy conservation to the creation of Influence, we trace the path that brought behavioral science from the lab to millions of everyday readers. Topics [0:00] The Utility Bill That Changed Behavior [9:28] Meet Robert Cialdini [12:41] The Famous Door Hanger Study [20:30] Social Proof and Opower's Success [22:16] The Book That Changed Behavioral Science [28:45] The Mentors Behind Cialdini's Thinking [41:30] Three Research Strategies That Defined His Career [56:01] Building the Science of Influence [1:01:01] Writing Influence for the Public [1:10:21] Why Cialdini's Work Still Matters Today ©2026 Behavioral Grooves Links Influence by Robert Cialdini Join us on Substack! Join the Behavioral Grooves community Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube Support Behavioral Grooves

People in this episode

Hosts: Kurt Nelson, PhD, Tim Houlihan

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Opower, Behavioral Grooves

Books & works: Influence

More episodes of Behavioral Grooves Podcast

• Climate Advice You’ve Never Heard | Liz Dunn & Jiaying Zhao · July 20, 2026 · 1h 8m
• The Real Danger of AI (Part 1) · July 16, 2026 · 28 min
• Why Employees Hate Change | Julia Dhar · July 13, 2026 · 1h 27m
• Throwback Monday: Does Democracy Need a Rebrand? | AJ Jacobs · July 6, 2026 · 1h 12m
• The Godfather of Influence: The Lasting Impact of Robert Cialdini, Part 3 · July 2, 2026 · 1h 9m
• The Godfather of Influence: What Makes Bob Bob, Part 2 · June 29, 2026 · 1h 20m

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