Behavioral science secrets behind top brands episode artwork

EPISODE · Apr 21, 2026 · 43 MIN

Behavioral science secrets behind top brands

from On Top of PR with Jason Mudd · host Jason Mudd, Axia Public Relations

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Richard Shotton joins host Jason Mudd to discuss the behavioral science behind some of the world’s most successful brands and how to apply those principles in marketing and PR. Meet our guest:Our guest this episode is Richard Shotton, founder of Astroten. Richard is a behavioral scientist and best-selling author of “The Choice Factory,” “The Illusion of Choice,” and “Hacking the Human Mind.” He specializes in applying behavioral science to marketing and works with global brands to solve real-world challenges.Five things you’ll learn from this episode:1. Why what people say influences them vs. what actually drives behavior2. How “effort storytelling” can increase perceived product value3. Why simplicity in messaging increases perceived intelligence and trust4. How timing and “fresh start” moments influence behavior change5. Why social proof remains one of the strongest drivers of decision-making Quotables“Behavioral science is what people say influences them and what actually influences them. They are wildly different.” — Richard Shotton“If you ever need someone to make a really big change in their life, don't target them randomly.” — Richard Shotton“The more effort that goes into something, the better it is. People have got that as a rule of thumb in their head. And the interesting thing is, the rule of thumb takes on a life of its own.” — Richard Shotton“If you want to convey strong brand values, the argument from Oppenheimer is to speak in a simple, clear way.” — Richard Shotton“The simplest answer is usually the best answer. If it’s focused on one thing, it's clear, easy to digest.” — Jason MuddIf you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to share it with a colleague or friend. You may also support us through Buy Me a Coffee or by leaving us a quick podcast review.More About Richard ShottonRichard Shotton is a behavioral scientist and founder of Astroten. He is a best-selling author of three books, including “The Choice Factory” and “The Illusion of Choice.” His latest book, “Hacking the Human Mind,” explores the behavioral science underpinning the success of 17 leading brands. He specializes in applying behavioral science to marketing, helping brands like Google solve real-world challenges through consultancy, copywriting, and training.Guest’s contact info and resources:@rshotton on XRichard Shotton on LinkedInAstroten’s websiteConsumer Behavior Lab website”Hacking the Human Mind” bookAdditional Resources:Earned authority + emotional resonance = brand winsWhat is social proof, and how is it used in PR?Listen to more episodes of the On Top of PR with Jason Mudd podcast.Find out more about Axia Public Relations.If you like this episode, you're going to love this:Using psychology to become a better leaderHuman motivation with Darryl SalernoReSupport the showOn Top of PR is produced by Axia Public Relations, named by Forbes as one of America’s Best PR Agencies. Axia is an expert PR firm for national brands.On Top of PR is sponsored by ReviewMaxer, the platform for monitoring, improving, and promoting online customer reviews.

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Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Richard Shotton joins host Jason Mudd to discuss the behavioral science behind some of the world’s most successful brands and how to apply those principles in marketing and PR. Meet our guest: Our guest this episode is Richard Shotton, founder of Astroten. Richard is a behavioral scientist and best-selling author of “The Choice Factory,” “The Illusion of Choice,” and “Hacking the Human Mind.” He specializes in applying behavioral science to marketing ...

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