Behavioral Grooves Podcast
Behavioral Grooves Podcast
Kurt Nelson, PhD and Tim Houlihan
Throwback Thursday: The Surprising Power of One Word | Jonah Berger
46 minutes Posted Jan 15, 2026 at 6:00 am.
] Welcome and speed round questions.
] Why asking for advice makes us actually seem smarter.
] Using abstract vs. concrete language.
] How Jonah researched the use of language.
] How can our language affect our relationships.
] Turning actions into identities.
] Priming behavior with language.
] Do the lyrics of songs help explain their success?
] Grooving Session with Tim and Kurt on why words matter.
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Show notes
It’s Throwback Thursday at Behavioral Grooves, and we’re revisiting one of our favorite conversations with bestselling author Jonah Berger on the surprising power of words. Tiny shifts in language can shape behavior, influence relationships, and even change how others see us. Jonah reveals the “magic words” that captivate, motivate, and persuade, and shares practical tips for turning actions into identities, priming behavior with language, and making every word count.
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Links
About Jonah
Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way by Jonah Berger
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Music Links
Suzanne Vega, DNA - Tom's Diner 
RUN DMC - Walk This Way (ft. Aerosmith)