How much is splitting the bill costing you?
Summary
This episode discusses a new AIB survey revealing that Irish consumers lose an average of €150 annually due to the "politeness premium," where social awkwardness prevents them from settling shared bills. Hosts Ciara Kelly and Shane Coleman are joined by Irish Times journalist Conor Pope and psychologist Keelan O'Dwyer to explore the psychological roots of this avoidance, including the fear of conflict and the desire to appear generous.
Topics discussed
Intro: AIB survey on the 'politeness premium'
Conor Pope explains the cost of social awkwardness
Impact on friendships and resentment over small debts
Keelan O'Dwyer on psychology: generosity vs. conflict
Advice: Setting expectations before the meal
Hosts debate the awkwardness of itemizing bills
Context matters: Financial struggle vs. meanness
Practical tips: How to ask for money back
Long-term patterns: Making splitting bills normal
Shane Coleman's view: Not worth the hassle
Listener reactions and anecdotes about bills
Outro: Summary and contact details
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