Podcast
Consumer Catalyst
Hosted by Nicole Arnett Sanders PhD · EN
Welcome to Consumer Catalyst, where we empower you to harness the power of consumer behavior, business strategy, and everyday inspiration. From actionable marketing tips to the basics of building a thriving business—and even a little lifestyle insight along the way—we’re here to spark ideas and fuel your success. Follow us on Instagram at @nicolearnettsandersphd or @fiftysixagency for more marketing tips and freebies.
6episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Rent-Free: The Science of Super Bowl Ads
Feb 900:16:03Tap to summarizeUnderstanding Super Bowl Ads: The Psychology Behind CommercialsIn this episode of Consumer Catalyst, Dr. Nicole Annette Sanders delves into the intricate world of Super Bowl advertising. She dissects why certain commercials stick in our minds, exploring eight primary advertising execution frameworks like storytelling, demonstration, and humor. The episode covers iconic ads from brands like Budweiser and Apple, illustrating how emotional encoding, shared social experiences, and heightened anticipation during the Super Bowl contribute to the lasting impact of these commercials. Additionally, Dr. Sanders provides insights into the astronomical costs and the significant cultural influence of Super Bowl ads. Finally, she highlights emerging trends and the economic landscape affecting celebrity endorsements. Whether you're there for the game, halftime show, or the ads, you'll never watch commercials the same way again.00:00 Introduction to Consumer Catalyst01:06 The Power of Super Bowl Commercials01:52 Eight Main Execution Frameworks in Advertising08:59 The Economics of Super Bowl Advertising11:15 Psychological Principles Behind Memorable Ads13:39 Trends in Super Bowl Advertising14:39 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
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High Impact, Low-Cost Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses
Jun 1100:21:57Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Consumer Catalyst, Dr. Nicole Arnett Sanders dives into effective, budget-friendly marketing strategies for small businesses. Covering topics like intentional social media use, leveraging micro-influencers, conversational email marketing, community collaboration, and creating evergreen content, Nicole provides actionable tips for maximizing impact without breaking the bank. Listeners will walk away with practical steps and fresh ideas to enhance their marketing efforts and build stronger connections with their audiences.00:00 Welcome to Consumer Catalyst00:44 High Impact, Low Cost Marketing Strategies02:37 Using Social Media with Intention05:43 Building a Micro Influencer Network08:52 Email Marketing That Feels Like a Conversation12:59 Leveraging Community and Collaboration16:16 Creating Evergreen Content19:31 Wrapping Up and Action Steps
Transcribe →Beachside Buys – Why Vacations Turn Us Into High-Spending Consumers
Jun 1100:27:58Tap to summarizeWhy do we splurge on $60 beach towels and $12 bottles of water while on vacation—without a second thought? In this episode of Consumer Catalyst, Dr. Nicole Arnett Sanders unpacks the fascinating psychology behind vacation spending. From dopamine-fueled “vacation brain” to impulse buys, social proof at the shore, and the convenience premium, you’ll discover how our brains shift into high-spend mode the moment our toes hit the sand. Whether you're a curious consumer or a savvy marketer, this episode reveals what really drives those beachside buys—and how businesses can use those insights year-round.
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Millennial, Marketer, and Managing It All
May 1, 202500:25:09Tap to summarizeIn this deeply honest reintroduction, Nicole Arnett Sanders, PhD shares what it’s really like to wear all the hats — marketing professor, brand strategist, agency founder, business operator, and mom — while navigating imposter syndrome, creative burnout, and the pressure to keep showing up.She talks about what it means to be a millennial marketer in a Gen Z-driven digital world, how she bridges theory and real-world application in her classrooms and consulting work, and why she hit pause to reconnect with purpose. From AI-powered customer service and curbside groceries to teary dance recitals and marketing lectures called “Scroll, Click, Buy,” this episode is for anyone who’s ever asked: “Am I doing enough?”Spoiler: you are. And the best is still ahead.
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From Browse to Buy: The Impulse Purchase Formula
Dec 6, 202400:29:51Tap to summarizeConsumer Catalyst: The Psychology Behind Impulse Buying and Unplanned PurchasesIn this episode of Consumer Catalyst, host Nicole delves into the psychology behind impulse buying and unplanned purchases, exploring the key factors and emotional triggers that drive these behaviors. Using the context of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Nicole distinguishes between impulse and unplanned purchases, shares intriguing insights from her PhD research, and provides practical tips for both marketers and consumers. From emotional triggers to scarcity, social proof, and atmospheric cues, this episode is packed with strategies for understanding and leveraging purchasing behavior. Nicole also offers actionable advice for mindful shopping and maintaining control over spending.Don't miss this engaging exploration of consumer behavior and marketing tactics!00:00 Introduction to Impulse Buying00:51 Black Friday Shopping Insights01:38 Personal Black Friday Experiences03:51 Understanding Impulse vs. Unplanned Purchases08:42 Emotional Triggers in Shopping15:22 Effective Marketing Tactics25:19 Mindful Shopping Tips27:56 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewFree Resource💡 From Browse to Buy: The Impulse Purchase FormulaDownload Nicole’s free workbook to learn how to turn your marketing mix into a tool for creating unplanned purchases—while keeping your customers’ values at the center.👉nicolearnettsanders.com/freebie-1Connect with NicoleLet’s keep the conversation going! Share your Black Friday stories or your thoughts on this episode:Instagram: @NicoleArnettSandersPhDNext Episode Preview Episode 3: Emotions in Emerald – The Storytelling Genius Behind WickedDiscover how this Broadway sensation uses emotional storytelling to build fan loyalty and engagement. Don’t forget to subscribe to Consumer Catalyst so you never miss an episode! For more actionable consumer tips, follow Nicole on social media and join her newsletter.
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What is Consumer Behavior and Why Does It Matter?
Nov 22, 202400:09:11Tap to summarizeThis week on Consumer Catalyst, I’m Dr. Nicole Arnett Sanders, a retail strategist and consumer behaviorist, taking you on a deep dive into the psychology of shopping. Why do we splurge on some items but pass on others? How do brands like Amazon and Lululemon influence our decisions? It’s no accident—it’s consumer behavior in action.In this debut episode, we’ll explore how emotions, habits, and subconscious triggers drive up to 95% of purchase decisions. You’ll also learn actionable tips to apply these insights, whether you’re growing your business or making smarter personal choices.From personalized marketing strategies to the power of social proof, this episode is packed with real-world examples and practical takeaways to help you understand why we shop the way we do.Tune in now, and let’s start unlocking the secrets of consumer behavior together!Shopping Value Decoder QuizDon’t forget to connect with me on Instagram @NicoleArnettSandersPhD and share your thoughts!Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Consumer Catalyst00:30 Meet Your Host: Nicole Arnett Sanders00:50 Understanding Consumer Behavior01:40 Real-World Example: Amazon's Data-Driven Marketing02:15 Defining Consumer Behavior03:10 Breaking Down Consumer Behavior04:29 Case Study: Lululemon vs. Amazon Dupes05:12 The Evolution of Consumer Behavior05:38 Actionable Tips to Boost Sales and Engagement07:29 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser
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