Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly

Dive into the quirky world of fake advertising where companies create comically fake products to grab attention. Discover how Obvious Plant turned pranks into a profitable venture and how Maybelline's subway mascara hoax went viral. Learn about clever stunts like Fevicol's glued-down free store and how Payless fooled fashion influencers with a luxury brand facade. Explore the psychology behind fake ads and why they capture our interest while still appearing genuine. Marketing has never been so entertaining!

Exciting news unfolds as both Android and Apple users gain access to exclusive subscriber-only content. Listeners can enjoy ad-free episodes, early access, and bonus stories from the cutting room floor. Dive deeper with Q&As and connect to other Apostrophe shows like Vinyl Cafe and Beatlology, complete with live events and chats with the hosts. Discounts on merch and early ticket access for live shows are also on the table! Get ready for a whole new level of fan engagement.

Explore the clever world of newsjacking, where brands capitalize on breaking news to create memorable ads. Discover how a ladder company humorously used a Louvre heist to make waves with their marketing. Hear about the British Geological Survey's brilliant take on Taylor Swift concerts and how Norwegian Airlines tapped into celebrity gossip for comedic ads. Learn the risks involved, especially when brands misfire, as shown by DiGiorgio Pizza's backlash. It's a fascinating look at timing and creativity in advertising!

Discover the most innovative audio ideas worldwide! Learn about a podcast for runners that only plays while you're on the move. Hear how a payphone stunt raised funds for homeless youth by ringing thousands of phones simultaneously. There's also a unique audiobook campaign featuring a humorous character, and a fascinating retelling of Pocahontas' story from an Indigenous perspective. These creative approaches showcase the impactful power of audio in diverse social causes.

Explore the brilliant marketing strategies of Taylor Swift, who has reshaped the music industry. Discover how she regained control of her master recordings and persuaded streaming giants to pay artists fairly. Dive into her intimate fan interactions, like surprise listening parties, and the engaging Easter eggs hidden in her lyrics. Learn about the monumental success of her re-recorded albums, the cultural impact of her Eras Tour, and her influence beyond music, from economics to sports. Swift's story highlights her unique approach to branding and advocacy.

Dive into the fascinating world of cannabis marketing, where the journey from illegal plant to cultural icon unfolds. Discover how Bob Dylan introduced the Beatles to marijuana and its lasting impact on music. Explore celebrity cannabis brands like Willie Nelson's, and learn about the surprising retail surge in luxury cannabis accessories. From the effects of legalization on various industries to clever advertising strategies, this conversation covers the multifaceted evolution of cannabis in the marketplace.

A curious trend unfolds in Canada as beloved brands like Kleenex and Skippy pack their bags after decades of loyalty. KFC even held a funeral for their unpopular fries, showcasing the strange ways companies say goodbye. With nostalgia bubbling up, fans are rallying to revive favorites like A&W's Whistle Dog through petitions and social media campaigns. Dive into the emotional connections we have with these brands and discover the factors behind their sudden disappearances.

This week’s guest is Earl Slick, a veteran rock guitarist renowned for his work with David Bowie and as a key player on John Lennon’s final albums. Earl shares fascinating insights about recording Double Fantasy, from Lennon’s humor to the unique recording process that emphasized feel over precision. He recounts his first meeting with Lennon and the shock of learning about John’s murder. Earl also reflects on Lennon's guitar skills, the album's legacy, and his own creative journey, adding an intimate layer to the music we love.

Explore the world of copycat brands that tread a fine legal line. Discover Wumart's rise in China and South Butt's cheeky take on North Face. Hear how Dumb Starbucks sparked debates over parody versus infringement. Learn about Hydrox, the cookie that was overshadowed by Oreo, and its fight for revival. Uncover the intriguing stories behind these brands and the legal wranglings that make them so fascinating. Eavesdrop on the fine balance between imitation and originality!

Discover how marketing quietly shapes our everyday lives. Learn how the term 'jaywalking' shifted blame from drivers to pedestrians. Explore the surprising origin of the 10,000-steps-a-day goal linked to a 1964 marketing strategy. Uncover the story behind the Butterball Turkey Hotline and its explosive impact. Delight in the journey of the 'Ted Lasso' character from commercials to a beloved TV show. These hidden influences reveal the sneaky power of marketing we often overlook.