59 Seconds

An English psychologist uses scientific findings to explain, and often upend, conventional wisdom on how people change, relate to others, and manage their lives. After presenting summaries of research findings in each area he covers, he offers his "59-second recommendations," which cover best practices in goal setting, productivity, anger management, marital satisfaction, decision making, persuasion, and buying behavior. The production provides intellectual guidance rather than motivational juice, so it will require something from the listener to become a transformational experience. With his splendid consistency and charming vocal elegance, Jonathan Cowley makes it all sound fascinating. His casual intensity both lightens and respects the academic foundation of this material. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine