Why Rewards and Incentives Fail: The Truth About Motivation at Work episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 23, 2026 · 28 MIN

Why Rewards and Incentives Fail: The Truth About Motivation at Work

from THE MAKING OF ME · host Aro Benaiah Kehinde

Ever wondered why bonuses, perks, and other incentives often fail to boost creativity or productivity? In this episode of The Making of Me Podcast, behavioral design expert Roman Rackwitz explains the science of motivation and why traditional rewards can sometimes do more harm than good.Discover:✅ The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation✅ How incentives can backfire and reduce performance✅ Real-world examples of teams thriving without traditional rewards✅ Practical strategies for leaders to foster engagement, creativity, and autonomyFrom the story of a wine retailer who ditched rewards for a progress-focused approach to actionable tips for managers, this episode is packed with insights to improve workplace culture and drive meaningful results.🔗 Explore Roman’s frameworks and learn more: https://EngagingLab.com👍 Like, subscribe, and share for more episodes on leadership, motivation, and behavioral design.#Motivation #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #BehavioralDesign #MakingOfMePodcast

Ever wondered why bonuses, perks, and other incentives often fail to boost creativity or productivity? In this episode of The Making of Me Podcast, behavioral design expert Roman Rackwitz explains the science of motivation and why traditional rewards can sometimes do more harm than good.Discover:✅ The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation✅ How incentives can backfire and reduce performance✅ Real-world examples of teams thriving without traditional rewards✅ Practical strategies for leaders to foster engagement, creativity, and autonomyFrom the story of a wine retailer who ditched rewards for a progress-focused approach to actionable tips for managers, this episode is packed with insights to improve workplace culture and drive meaningful results.🔗 Explore Roman’s frameworks and learn more: https://EngagingLab.com👍 Like, subscribe, and share for more episodes on leadership, motivation, and behavioral design.#Motivation #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #BehavioralDesign #MakingOfMePodcast

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Why Rewards and Incentives Fail: The Truth About Motivation at Work

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Ever wondered why bonuses, perks, and other incentives often fail to boost creativity or productivity? In this episode of The Making of Me Podcast, behavioral design expert Roman Rackwitz explains the science of motivation and why traditional...

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