In this episode of The Business Book Club, we explore The Undercover Economist by Tim Harford, a brilliantly engaging guide to understanding how economics shapes the world around us — often in ways we don’t even notice. Harford lifts the lid on the hidden forces behind everyday decisions, from pricing and markets to scarcity, incentives, and human behaviour.

Through witty storytelling and real-world examples, Harford shows how economic principles influence everything from the cost of a cup of coffee to global trade patterns. Rather than drowning readers in theory, he brings economics to life with clarity and humour, revealing the surprisingly simple rules that govern complex systems. In this episode, we break down these core concepts and discuss how thinking like an economist can sharpen your decision-making, improve your financial awareness, and help you understand why people — and businesses — behave the way they do.

We also explore how Harford’s insights apply to leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal finance, making this a powerful episode for anyone who wants to make smarter choices in work and in life.