Interview with Gareth Harvey: former professor of consumer psychology turned behavioral science consultant, Apple branding & advertising, Innovation podcast

Episode 64 Interview with Gareth Harvey: former professor of consumer psychology turned behavioral science consultant

In this episode we talk with Gareth Harvey. Gareth was previously a professor of consumer psychology but now advises companies about how they can apply findings from behavioral science. In this episode he discusses some of his work with retailers showing how they can better frame special offers, use music more effectively and adjust the shopper journey.

Episode Highlights

Shoppers in a good mood spend more. Gareth explains how music—specifically tempo and key—can be used in retail settings to boost mood, extend browsing time, and increase overall spend.

Gareth unpacks the “attentional blink”—a moment when emotional news blocks memory. He shares how to time and repeat key points to ensure messages are heard and remembered under stress.

Three takeaways: test behavioral insights in the real world, use music to elevate shopper mood, and deliver emotional news with care to improve clarity, retention, and response.