January often feels like a letdown instead of a fresh start. In this episode, we explain the behavioral science behind the January slump, why motivation drops after the holidays, and how reflection, recovery, and smaller milestones can help individuals and teams regain energy and momentum.

[0:00] Are you feeling that January Slump?

[3:34] Reflecting and recharging

[4:56] What leaders can do

[8:00] Milestones for motivation

[11:42] Final thoughts and next steps

©2026 Behavioral Grooves

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Boredom feels unpleasant, but that may be the point. Psychologist Dr. Erin Westgate joins us to explain why boredom is a signal rather than a flaw, how meaning and attention shape it, and what it can teach us about work, burnout, and living a psychologically rich life.

[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Erin Westgate

[8:05] Do we think for pleasure?

[13:11] Why men would rather shock themselves than be bored

[15:50] The MAC model

[25:23] Is boredom useful?

[29:07] Enjoyable vs. interesting experiences

[31:51] Can a boring life still be a good life?

[39:58] Boredom and burnout at work

[49:39] Is boredom good or bad?

[52:38] Designing better environments for bored people

[58:31] Desert island music

[1:02:17] Grooving Session: Boredom and meaning in life

©2026 Behavioral Grooves

About Erin

A Psychologically Rich Life: Beyond Happiness and Meaning

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Patty Scialfa - Rumble Doll

Beethoven - Symphony No.7 in A major op.92 - II, Allegretto

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.

[3:27] Welcome and speed round questions.

[5:09] Why asking for advice makes us actually seem smarter.

[7:17] Using abstract vs. concrete language.

[12:42] How Jonah researched the use of language.

[16:49] How can our language affect our relationships.

[19:31] Turning actions into identities.

[22:47] Priming behavior with language.

[25:00] Do the lyrics of songs help explain their success?

[28:27] Grooving Session with Tim and Kurt on why words matter.

About Jonah

Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way by Jonah Berger

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Suzanne Vega, DNA - Tom's Diner

RUN DMC - Walk This Way (ft. Aerosmith)