The Ancient Formula for Modern Influence — Cicero’s Secret to Magnetic Persuasion | Social Intel Brief
The Art of Charm
Cicero's Three-Step Model Overview
AJ asks how Cicero's model maps to modern influence and introduces the three steps: frame, layer, and close.
What if the secret to modern influence was 2,000 years old? In this episode of Social Intelligence Brief, AJ and Johnny uncover Cicero’s three-step formula for magnetic persuasion—a framework so powerful it once stopped riots and still drives billion-dollar pitches today.
Drawing on ancient rhetoric, neuroscience, and modern leadership psychology, they reveal how to frame problems, layer reasoning, and close with intensity—the timeless skills behind every great communicator. From Roman courts to boardrooms, you’ll learn how to turn logic into emotion, guide attention like a conductor, and leave any audience moved to act.
Whether you’re leading a meeting, pitching investors, or navigating conflict, this episode shows you how Cicero’s forgotten formula can help you speak with conviction—and influence with integrity.
What to Listen For
[00:00:00] How Cicero turned chaos into persuasion—his 3-step model
[00:01:12] Why structure—not charisma—is the key to attention
[00:02:10] Step 1: Frame the problem to define reality
[00:03:22] The modern VP example—how framing shifts energy and focus
[00:04:00] Step 2: Layer your reasons (fact → value → emotion)
[00:05:12] The neuroscience of stories and why emotion seals logic
[00:06:10] Step 3: Close with intensity, not volume
[00:07:05] The psychology of endings—why the close is all people remember
[00:08:10] The 3-question test for persuasive clarity
[00:08:40] Final recap: Frame it. Layer it. Close it.
A Word From Our Sponsors
Stop being over looked and unlock your X-Factor today at unlockyourxfactor.com
The very qualities that make you exceptional in your field are working against you socially. Visit the artofcharm.com/intel for a social intelligence assessment and discover exactly what's holding you back.
Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince. Upgrade your wardrobe today at quince.com/charm for free shipping and hassle-free returns.
Grow your way - with Headway! Get started at makeheadway.com/CHARM and use my code CHARM for 25% off.
Ready to turn your business idea into reality? Sign up for your $1/month trial at shopify.com/charm.
Need to hire top talent—fast? Claim your $75 Sponsored Job Credit now at Indeed.com/charm.
This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get your summer savings and shop premium wireless plans at mintmobile.com/charm
Save more than fifty percent on term life insurance at SELECTQUOTE.COM/CHARM TODAY to get started
Curious about your influence level?
Get your Influence Index Score today!
Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at theartofcharm.com/influence.
Check in with AJ and Johnny!
AJ on LinkedIn
Johnny on LinkedIn
AJ on Instagram
Johnny on Instagram
The Art of Charm on Instagram
The Art of Charm on YouTube
The Art of Charm on TikTok
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The AI-powered Podcast Player
