The Behavioural Vaccine

This week we reflect on the year that's been, the origins of the Behavioural Vaccine and the significance of Christmas 2020. Thanks for listening and supporting us throughout 2020.

Looking at the gap between intention and action when it comes to alcohol, Padraig and Kate explore how to make it through silly season without losing the run of ourselves.

Funnyman and all-round nice-guy Colm O'Regan joins us this week to chat about spinning yarns, the art of making maths interesting and story-telling in a virtual world. You can hear more from Colm on his podcast, The Function Room, his book Ann Devine: Handle with Care and on the Irish Mammies Twitter account @irishmammies

Donald Trump is the second most voted for US presidential candidate of all time. Not because he was particularly good but because the 2020 US Presidential Election had the largest voter turnout of all time. On today's episode, we examine why this was and how behavioural science can tell us about increasing election turn out.

On today's episode, we're joined by Registered Nutritionist Laura Kealy, founder of Bridge Nutrition to discuss simple dietary habits that will keep us well this winter. Find out more at: http://bridgenutrition.ie/

With mandatory fines for breach of Covid guidelines introduced in recent weeks we explore the Behavioural Science behind punishment, when it works and when it might do the opposite to what is expected! With special guest Kelly Moynihan. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

At this spooky time of year, we reflect on the nature of fear and the routes out of it. We discuss Learned Optimism and how to shift towards a sunnier view of ourselves and our circumstances. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

Not unlike hopeful homeowners, undergoing renovations - we're living in the ruins of our old lives, and losing patience with the rebuilding process. In this episode we explore why now is the toughest of times, and how we can practise self compassion through it. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

In this episode Padraig and Kate are joined by Eco-Behavioural Design expert Mark James, who explains how making habits embarrassingly simple is the key to keeping going, during these tough winter months. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the Want to know more about Mark James? You can follow him on Twitter:  @MarkMJames Or on Instagram at: @ecobehaviouraldesigns

Today we examine Scandinavian approaches to winter including the Danish philosphy of hygge, and friluftsliv. Are you a cosy cat or an energetic pup? Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

This week, we look at how behavioural science can help with your financial health.  If you are looking to save for a deposit, start a pension or save for a rainy day, this is the episode for you. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

Winter is fast approaching and lockdown restrictions look to be reintroduced. Having a goal can help our mental health and resilience. In this episode, Kate talks us through some executive coaching approaches that she uses to help people set and achieve their goals.

MISINFORMATION HAS NEVER been more talked about in Ireland than during the Covid-19 pandemic. The spread of fake news never really took hold in Ireland in the same way it did in many other countries, but more false information has been shared in Ireland in recent months than ever before. Some people have used the pandemic, and people's valid concerns and fears, to deliberately create false information – often dubbed disinformation – in a bid to dupe others or see how far the rumour goes. Most people who share incorrect information do so unwittingly and without any malicious intent. But what makes some people more likely than others to share, and believe, false stories? And why do people create them in the first place? In this episode Padraig & Kate explore why misinformation is shared and how false memories can be created by a person who encounters fake news. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

According to research from Glint —40% of employees are feeling less connected to their friends.  On today's episode we talk about the nature of friendship and how to strengthen them. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

While in lockdown many of us developed unwanted habits, the conditions for bad habits creation were perfect - and so it's time to pause and examine what we're at. In today's episode we explore ways to recognise and address those tricky new behaviours, before they become too embedded. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

Everyday is a school day these days! As nippers return to the classroom, we examine how we can hack learning - to make lessons stick for the long term.  We look at strategies for learners and teachers alike, and reflect on the joy of a good pencil case. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the

In this episode of The Behavioural Vaccine, we discuss nudging. Nudging is a concept in Behavioural Science which proposes positive reinforcement and indirect suggestions as ways to influence behaviour and decision making. Today's episode explores some of our favourite and least favourite nudges, and how we can apply nudging to improve our well-being. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the This episode is sponsored by The UX Design Institute.

In this episode of The Behavioural Vaccine, we explore the potential benefits of holidaying closer to home, getting into nature and the implications of flexible working on our ability to return to rural living. Follow us on instagram: @thebehaviouralvaccine, and twitter: @behavioural_the This episode is sponsored by The UX Design Institute.

On this episode, Padraig and Kate explore why the tide has turned towards the wearing of masks. We explore the factors that have shifted, and what they can teach us about broader behaviour change.

In this episode explores  Behavioural research to understand how to enter creative states. Padraig and Kate share the creative habits that work for them, and the wise words of an 84 year old Roscommon woman.

On this episode, Padraig and Kate explore how the skills of improvisation can be applied to uncertainty at work and in our every day lives as we enter phase three.

In today's episode Pádraig & Kate discuss the Overton Window, that spectrum of acceptability of ideas at a particular point in time. They chat about changes in this has impacted the #BlackLivesMatter movement and the #MeToo movement.

The Behavioural Vaccine is back for season 2! And this time we're going to be looking at how behavioural science can help solve every day problems. Before that however, we check in on how we all are, after lockdown.

Today we're going to look at what we are doing and how we're eating and how these have changed over the course of the COVID-19 lockdown.  So we're trying to figure out what we're eating, how we're smoking how we're drinking. How have these behaviours changed and why are they changing.  In this episode Kate and I take a deeper look into some of the stats and gonna reveal all, including our own habits. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

We're currently in the biggest behavioural intervention that there's ever been and almost 12 weeks into lockdown. Naturally, this is going to have an impact on how we feel. The central statistics office in Ireland has recently released statistics looking at our well being, and in this episode Kate and Padraig have a closer look at these and see how are we all doing. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Our age, gender & personality influence our behaviour & likelihood to comply with social distancing. In this episode, Padraig & Kate identify the film character that would be most likely to follow guidance based upon these variables.

Today we outline the Behavioural steps that businesses need to take as they start to reopen in a world of social distancing and hygiene anxiety. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

In this episode we talk with Dr. Shane Timmons of the Behaviour Research Unit about the findings of their research about messaging during the Covid-19 emergency. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Today's episode looks at strategies for influencing other's behaviour without it becoming a strain during times of lockdown. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Have we gone back to living the lives of our grandparents during lockdown? The big weekly shop is back in vogue, we know our locality better than ever, and we forego weekend breaks for walks in the park. We discuss this and the impact the invention of the bicycle had on our gene pool! For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

The boxer Ricky Hatton famously had two sets of clothes, normal clothes for when he was training and a set of more forgiving clothes when he packed on the pounds and let loose between fights. The Post-Reinforcement Pause is something that we can all relate to. It occurs when our perseverance and dedication wanes shortly after we have achieved our goal. We can relate this to running a marathon or completing a thesis. In this episode Pádraig & Kate look at this phenomenon in the context of social distancing and speed-bumps we might hit along the road when supporting each other to maintain behaviour change. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ Update Description

On this episode Kate and Padraig talk about uncertainty and hope, and how it can fit into our wellbeing efforts at this time. Padraig also reveals a unique game called Transport Bingo, that he has been using to fill his time. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

On this episode, Padraig and Kate talk about procrastination... "If I only had the time I'd do it......." Many of us now have the all the time we dreamed about on our morning commute but maybe you're part of the club procrastinating on a long-term project? Maybe you intended to learn a new skill, get fit, do some home improvements or...write a screenplay? Pádraig found himself running more but writing less since being in lockdown. This got him thinking about the Behavioural Science behind procrastination and designs a 6 point Procrastination Plan. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Today we examine kindness in a time of social distancing. Random acts of kindness are boosting people's mood currently and we explore a growing body of research that suggests that giving and receiving kindness doesn't just boost our mood but it also helps to boost out immunity levels. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Today we're going to look into the future and we examine how these behaviour changes that have happened in a very short space of time might have lasting impact on different areas of our lives. We introduce the micro-flinch, the feeling of discomfort that we'll experience as we move back to what was once “normal life”. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

We revisit Resilience and look at self-care routines that are crucial currently. We also chat about grit and determination, how it can be useful during a marathon and in small doses but might have limitations in the long run. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

In this episode we examine how social norms influence our behaviour and examine why what we see others doing has such a huge impact on what we do ourselves.  What has influenced us  to maintain social distance and wear face-masks and disposable gloves? Why is it that it only takes 60-70% of people to change their behaviour to make us feel like a numpty if we haven't adapted?  All is revealed…. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

In previous episodes we have examined the fact that this is a marathon, not a sprint. We consider the Resilience we require and the strategies we can use. Kate talks us through the important parts If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

In this episode we examine the fact that we are in the largest global behavioural intervention in history! Think of it like a real-life Truman Show and we are all Jim Carrey. Governments and Health Organisations around the world are assuming the role of parents issuing ever-changing and directive guidance around expected behaviour. We look at what's working, what's not working and why...... If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

We discuss the challenges that parents are faced with when trying to balance the stresses of a changed working environment, home-school distancing and social distancing. Pádraig outlines the importance of self-compassion and allowing normal routines to be flexible at this time. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ Actualise Academy: Free courses that Padraig mentions: https://www.actualiseacademy.com/p/anxiety-in-children https://www.actualiseacademy.com/p/fasten-your-own-seat-belt-first

Working from home poses a unique set of challenges to us when we are not used to it. Kate talks us through the importance of Connection, Purpose and Achievement when working from home and outlines the methods that help lone workers to remain supported during this period. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Today we look at strategies for sustaining new habits (including exercise routines!) over a longer period of time and the challenges that we can face. We help to understand the role that effective and regular reward plays in supporting sustainable changes. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

In this episode we look at alternatives to ‘nagging' and consider effective ways that we can influence the hygiene and social behaviour of loved ones (young and old!) in these changing and challenging times. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

We know that staying connected is important for our mental health. In this episode we outline the ways that people are staying virtually connected with loved ones and ensuring that we check in on those most in need. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit:https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Pádraig & Kate discuss what happens to our brains when we become overwhelmed emotionally and what we can do in those moment to moment occasions where tensions rise and our emotional brain hijacks our ability to problem-solve and cope. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit:https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Today we look at how we can help deal with frustration in ourselves and others. We also look at those invisible slow triggers that might be building at this time. We also look at practical ways that we can all mediate against these. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit: https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen

We take a light-hearted look at the impact that social distancing has on slowing the spread of Coronavirus and discuss some of the strategies that were used to stop Irish College students from getting the “shift” during an outbreak of Meningitis in 1998. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit:  https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen

In this episode Kate & Pádraig discuss the important roles that going to our workplace plays outside of financial benefit and explain some of the things that you can do if you recognise your well-being shifting during sustained periods away from your normal place of work. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit:  https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen

How we interpret events around us influences how we respond and how we feel. In the episode Kate & Pádraig discuss how cognitive reframing can help us to see opportunities for connection and improvement during a time of social distancing. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit:  https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen

Forming one cornerstone habit can be key to establishing further helpful routines. In this episode Kate & Pádraig examine the role of goal-setting, key-stone habits and the chance that maybe now is the time to conquer the 100 push-up challenge. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit:  https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen

This short episode explores how feeling uncomfortable can actually be a good signal for us when we are changing our behaviour and having limited choices and agreed rules around social interactions can help reduce anxiety and confusion. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please don't forget to rate and review us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also make sure to subscribe so as to never miss an episode of The Behavioural Vaccine. For the latest Covid-19 information visit:  https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/ https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen