Work Isn’t Fair—Here’s How to Fix It | Iris Bohnet

Can we design workplaces to be truly fair? Behavioral economist Iris Bohnet joins us to explore how implicit biases, stereotypes, and in-group preferences shape decision-making in the workplace—and what we can do about it. From the impact of blind auditions to the power of small structural changes, we dive into science-backed strategies for fostering more equitable organizations.

Topics

[0:00] Episode Intro - Can We Make Work Fair?

[5:58] Speed Round with Iris Bohnet

[7:29] The Hidden Impact of In-Group Bias

[14:35] Implicit Bias and the IAT Test - Explained

[18:44] Nature vs. Nurture in Bias

[24:45] Case Study: NYC Fire Department and Hiring Reform

[35:41] The Power (and Pitfalls) of Incentives and Fairness

[41:35] Desert Island Music

[45:23] Grooving Session: The Impact of In-Group Bias on Organizations

©2025 Behavioral Grooves

Links

Iris Bohnet’s book: Make Work Fair

Take the Implicit Association Test (IAT)

Study on NYC Fire Department’s hiring process

About Iris Bohnet

Join the Behavioral Grooves community

Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube

Music Links

Adele - Make You Feel My Love 

Bob Marley - Is This Love 

Taylor Swift - Cruel Summer