Paul Larche, Author & Behavioral Branding Strategist
- Metaphorical explanation for non-marketers
- The old brain: emotional, automatic, evolved for survival
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Overview
In this insightful episode, Ashutosh Garg interviews Paul Larche, behavioral branding strategist and author of The Divided Brain: Understanding Human Behavior in Branding and Business. The conversation explores the science of decision-making, the interplay between emotion and rationality, and how these influence leadership, branding, and communication.
00:52 — What is the Old Brain versus New Brain Model?
- Metaphorical explanation for non-marketers
- The old brain: emotional, automatic, evolved for survival
- The new brain: analytical, verbal, rationalizes decisions
02:28 — What does processing 11 million bits per second mean for the Old Brain?
- Old brain manages complex, parallel processing unconsciously
- Regulates physiological functions and social cues
- New brain is slower, processes serially, and not good at multitasking
04:16 — What are the Five Filters: Threat, Return, Status, Contrast, Visual?
- Threat: Old brain seeks safety first; remove perceived risks
- Return: Calculating if effort yields reward
- Status: Desire for belonging and self-worth
- Contrast: Clarifying differences to reduce uncertainty
- Visual: Sensory intake beyond mere sight
06:38 — Why Do We Trust the New Brain’s Rationalizations So Much?
- Old brain usually correct; new brain justifies
- Rationality formed by both internal instincts and learned experiences
08:55 — Are Humans Truly Rational, or Is Rationality a Constructed Narrative?
- Rationality shaped by both emotion and environment
- History shows rationality can be context-dependent
- Importance of anchoring decisions in first principles
10:36 — How Should Leaders Communicate to Pass the Five Filters?
- Reduce perceived threats through empathy
- Guide teams through change by addressing emotional discomfort
- Leverage familiar structures for easier adaptation
14:01 — How Should Brands Communicate if the Old Brain is in Charge?
- Focus messaging on “what’s in it for me?”
- Remove barriers immediately to lower defenses
- Tell stories that emotionally resonate before introducing facts
- Example: Marketing car repair shop by highlighting customer care over technical specs
16:32 — How Does Understanding the Divided Brain Make Us Better Leaders?
- Awareness of decision process enables critical thinking and better judgment
- Explains susceptibility to marketing, politics, and social influences
- Empowers individuals to take a step back and assess influences rationally
18:35 — Can Individuals Recognize When the Old Brain Has Already Decided?
- Yes, with awareness and self-reflection
- Example: Rationalizing emotional purchases (guitars, watches)
- Use awareness as a filter against social and media manipulation
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Paul Larche: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
Marketing pro-tip: People don’t care about your shiny new features—they want to know, “What’s in it for me?” Address the Old Brain with stories and emotions first, THEN give the facts.
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Profile
- Paul Larche is a behavioral branding strategist who helps organizations understand the psychology behind decision-making, communication, and consumer behavior.
- He is the author of The Divided Brain: Understanding Human Behavior in Branding and Business, which explores the relationship between emotion, rationality, and human behavior.
- Paul’s work focuses on applying neuroscience and behavioral insights to leadership, branding, marketing, and business strategy.
