Katy Milkman

Katy Milkman, a distinguished figure in the realm of behavioral science, holds the esteemed position of James G. Dinan Professor at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Her influence extends beyond academia through her role as the host of Charles Schwab’s widely acclaimed podcast, Choiceology, which delves into the intricacies of behavioral economics. As a former president of the international Society for Judgment and Decision Making, Milkman's career is marked by her profound impact on both scholarly communities and public discourse. Her dedication to advancing the science of behavior change is further exemplified by her co-founding of the Behavior Change for Good Initiative, a research center committed to fostering lasting positive transformations. Milkman's literary contributions are headlined by her international bestseller, "How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be." Lauded as one of the New York Times' best books for healthy living in 2021, this seminal work distills complex scientific insights into actionable strategies for personal and organizational transformation. Her prolific output includes over 60 papers published in prestigious academic journals such as Nature, The Journal of Finance, and The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, underscoring her status as a leading voice in her field. Characterized by a writing style that seamlessly blends rigorous scholarship with accessible prose, Milkman engages a diverse audience eager to explore behavioral science. Her frequent contributions to major media outlets like The Washington Post, The New York Times, CNN, and The Economist further attest to her role as a conduit between academic research and practical application. Recognized as a Top 10 innovator shaping the future of health by Fortune Magazine, and honored with Penn’s Provost’s Lindback Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2022, Milkman continues to inspire and inform those who seek to harness the power of behavioral change.