
Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly
Under the Influence gives listeners a rare backstage pass into the hallways, boardrooms and recording studios of the ad industry.Join host and adman Terry O’Reilly for fascinating (and humorous) stories that connect the dots between pop culture, marketing and human nature. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Jul 5, 2025 • 27min
The Willy Wonka Secret: Candy Bar Advertising
This week, we look at candy bar advertising. Millions are spent marketing candy bars every year. We'll talk about how the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was owned by a candy company. And we'll reveal whether it really was Phil Collins inside that gorilla costume in that famous Cadbury Dairy Milk commercial.--------Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily data plans! Use codeTERRY at checkout. Download Saily app or go to https://saily.com/terry Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 29min
Selling Love: The Business of Online Dating
Explore the intriguing history of love and dating, tracing back to the first matchmaking services. Discover how innovative campaigns like those by Match.com have reshaped perceptions of online romance. Dive into the digital dating revolution, where apps like Tinder and Hinge have transformed our connections with their fun, engaging features. The rise of niche dating platforms highlights their unique approaches to cater to specific audiences, making love more accessible than ever. It's a fascinating look at how desire has been marketed and adapted through the ages.

Jun 21, 2025 • 28min
Ask Terry 2025
This week, it’s our annual Ask Terry episode. As we do every year, we open the show to questions from our listeners. This week, we’ll answer a question about the longest-lasting slogans in history, we’ll explore why there is so much dancing going on in commercials these days, and we’ll play a fun game where you have to guess the celebrity voice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 14, 2025 • 27min
Gone in 60 Seconds: Crazy Automobile Stunt Commercials
Dramatic car stunts are not just the stuff of movies.They’re also the stuff of car commercials.We’ll talk about one ad where skydivers risked their lives spelling out the word “Honda” in the sky, a commercial where a car speeds on the roof of a skyscraper, and a story about a car that was dropped from an airplane - and the parachute didn’t work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

5 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 28min
Yes I Can: Marketing to People with Disabilities
Dive into the fascinating world of marketing to people with disabilities, a often overlooked yet powerful consumer segment. Discover the curb cut effect, revealing how accessibility innovations benefit everyone. Explore the economic clout of disabled individuals, with their staggering $490 billion in purchasing power. Learn about ground-breaking campaigns that shift perceptions and celebrate the achievements of disabled athletes. This discussion highlights the importance of inclusivity in advertising, showcasing both ethical and strategic advantages for brands.

6 snips
May 31, 2025 • 27min
Brand Envy (2025)
Dive into the fascinating stories of four standout brands that triumphed against the odds. Discover the empowering journey of Elizabeth Arden in cosmetics during a time when women had few rights. Explore the legacy of Kawartha Dairy, a family-run business thriving for 88 years. Feel the nostalgia for a beloved band and unravel the record-breaking success of a TV show that captured hearts. Learn how envy shapes consumer loyalty and the clever marketing behind iconic products like Coffee Crisp.

May 17, 2025 • 27min
CAT-alogues & DOG-alogues: Pet Marketing
Explore the booming $150 billion pet products industry! Discover a quirky campaign where dogs conduct a symphony orchestra and flip through IKEA's playful pet catalogues. Dive into Dolly Parton's fashion line for dogs and untangle the rising trend of dog napping stories. Uncover innovative marketing strategies that resonate emotionally with pet owners and innovative pet fashion initiatives that promote adoption. Join the fun as we blend creativity and compassion in the world of pet marketing!

29 snips
May 10, 2025 • 32min
Bookmarks 2025
This week's discussion uncovers fascinating stories and unique insights. Learn about a captivating new book on SNL's Lorne Michaels and the creative process behind legendary songwriters. A hilarious printing error in the Bible makes the list, highlighting the quirks of human error in publishing. Explore the struggles of renowned talents like Mozart, revealing that creativity often requires grit and persistence. Plus, uncover how innovative thoughts can transform work culture and recruitment practices!

May 3, 2025 • 28min
Seizing The Moment
This week, we look at how the marketing industry seizes pop culture moments.We’ll talk about a website that got national attention by making a bold prediction about a TV show.How A1 Steak Sauce caught the funniest – and luckiest break.And how Pepsi grabbed a hilarious opportunity by following pizza delivery drivers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

10 snips
Apr 26, 2025 • 27min
A Moment I'll Never Forget: The Power of PSAs
Dive into the world of public service announcements, where creativity battles against a tide of commercial competition. Discover how Elvis Presley played a pivotal role in encouraging teen vaccinations during the polio crisis. Explore bold campaigns that confront censorship and impaired driving, including the unique use of intoxicated voiceovers. Uncover the innovative application of AI to amplify the voices of those advocating for gun reform. Finally, hear heartfelt stories that connect vulnerability and mental health awareness in advertising.