In the final episode of our Robert Cialdini series, we explore the extraordinary legacy of one of behavioral science's most influential thinkers. We revisit the seven Principles of Influence through real-world business examples, hear how Cialdini's ideas inspired organizations around the world, and learn why colleagues like Angela Duckworth, Adam Grant, Dan Pink, and Katie Milkman believe his greatest contribution goes far beyond research. Join us as we celebrate the ideas and the person who helped shape modern behavioral science.

[0:00] From Utility Bills to Global Impact [9:17] Full Cycle Social Psychology Explained [16:00] Why Business Became a Partner in Behavioral Science [22:47] The Seven Principles in Action [30:20] Behavior Change for Good and Real-World Research [45:49] The Ethical Compass Behind Influence [52:39] Why Influence Still Matters Today [58:02] A Career That Changed Behavioral Science [1:04:08] Daniel Kahneman on Cialdini's Legacy [1:08:04] Closing Thoughts

©2026 Behavioral Grooves

Join us on Substack!

Join the Behavioral Grooves community

Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube

Support Behavioral Grooves

In the second episode of our three-part series, we go back into the time machine to see what shaped Robert Cialdini into one of behavioral science's most influential thinkers. We're exploring the childhood experience, career-defining decisions, undercover research, and surprising moments that led to Influence, pre-suasion, and the principles of unity.

[0:00] A breakup letter to social psychology

[9:24] What makes Bob Bob?

[16:03] Baseball, adaptability, and serendipity

[23:40] Falling in love with psychology

[27:46] Choosing freedom over prestige

[36:44] The littering study that predicted elections

[42:03] How Influence became a phenomenon

[53:18] The birth of pre-suasion

[1:08:18] Unity as the seventh principle

[1:15:13] The legacy of Robert Cialdini

[1:17:53] Coming up in Episode Three

Influence by Robert Cialdini

Join us on Substack!

Join the Behavioral Grooves community

Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube

Support Behavioral Grooves

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.

[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

Influence by Robert Cialdini

Join us on Substack!

Join the Behavioral Grooves community

Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube

Support Behavioral Grooves