The Brainy Business | Understanding the Psychology of Why People Buy | Behavioral Economics

549. How Ads Shape Our Choices

Nov 13, 2025
Join Alessandra Di Lorenzo, a seasoned CMO with over 20 years in advertising, as she unveils how ads shape our choices. Discover the surprising mechanisms behind targeted advertising and the impact of data and AI on consumer behavior. Alessandra shares practical advice for small businesses on engaging audiences effectively. She also discusses the evolving landscape of content consumption and the urgent need for media literacy, especially in protecting young viewers. Tune in for insights into intentional consumer choices and adapting advertising strategies!
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ANECDOTE

Early Career Lessons In Persuasion

  • Alessandra started in advertising young and learned to write copy and select images to drive action.
  • Early roles taught her the mechanics of persuading people through banners and calls to action.
ANECDOTE

Predicting Pregnancy Via Behavior

  • At eBay in 2004 Alessandra's team predicted pregnancy trimester and targeted ads like supplements or nappies.
  • She called the capability "spooky" and noted it has become more precise with AI.
INSIGHT

Relevance Turns Ads Into Services

  • More data about a person enables more relevant, service-like ads rather than annoying interruptions.
  • When relevance works, advertising can feel like content and provide value to users.
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