Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly

If you searched the question:“What player has won the most Wimbledon singles titles,” Google will tell you it’s Roger Federer with 8 wins.But that’s incorrect. Martina Navratilova has 9. This week, we look at remarkable ideas that promote gender equality. Including an idea called Correct the Internet.com And one that challenged menstruation taboos with a program called “Touch the pickle.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gary Burr, a celebrated Nashville songwriter and musician, shares insights from his impressive career and his novel, *Reunion: A Rock ’N Roll Fairy Tale*. He creatively explores a world where John Lennon survived and the Beatles reunite for a benefit concert, sparked by Paul’s loss of Linda. Gary discusses his early influences, his chance encounters with Ringo Starr, and infuses real anecdotes from his life into the narrative. He also delves into the dynamics of the band in their 50s and the ongoing impact of Beatles fandom.

The evolution of the anti-hero in pop culture is explored, highlighting iconic figures like Tony Soprano and their impact on storytelling. The discussion reveals how advertising mirrors this shift, giving rise to anti-hero brands that embrace flaws and break traditional molds. Examples like Hans Brinker Hotel's brutal honesty and Liquid Death's extreme marketing illustrate this trend. Audiences are drawn to the complexity of these characters and brands, reflecting a modern cynicism that encourages us to root for the unapologetically flawed.

From our Season 12 Archives...This week, we look at companies that have spent decades advertising to only one gender - then suddenly decide to approach the opposite sex. L’Oreal is now marketing makeup to men. Scotch distillers are now targeting women. And lingerie companies are now designing intimates for men. It’s a brand new, gender-bending world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From our Season 12 Archives.Even though brand names are often protected by trademarks and copyrights, it’s remarkable how many times companies end up with the same names.And they either get along – or they sue each other into oblivion.This week, we look at “Brand Twins.”We’ll talk about when Guns N’ Roses sued Guns and Rosé.We’ll explain why there used to be the Saskatchewan Roughriders AND the Ottawa Rough Riders in the CFL. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From our Season 12 Archives, one of our favourites.This week, we talk about hotel marketing. Specifically, how some hotels attract guests by advertising specific rooms.Some of those rooms are decorated like TV shows, some are inspired by movies, and some hotels advertise the fact something famous – or infamous - happened in their rooms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From our Season 12 Archives, one of our favouritesThis week, we’re talking about the creative ways Hollywood markets films. We’ll talk about how a low-budget horror movie got a ton of press just by asking people to smile.And we’ll examine the marketing of Top Gun: Maverick – the Tom Cruise sequel that Steven Spielberg says single-handedly saved the theatrical industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People often tell me they love the storytelling in Under the Influence.  One of my favourite storytellers of all time is the late, great Stuart McLean. Which is why it’s been such a joy for our network to partner with Stuart’s long-time producer Jess Milton and the Vinyl Cafe team to bring you the podcast “Backstage at the Vinyl Cafe.” Today we are sharing the very first episode of the podcast released in 2023. Not only are there two hilarious Dave and Morley stories but it’s a great introduction to the show. We hope you enjoy this one as much as I do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the audacious world of George Lois, a fearless advertising legend known for his outrageous techniques. Discover how he revolutionized the industry in the '60s, creating iconic campaigns and covers that tackled social issues. From launching Xerox to resurrecting MTV, Lois's bold strategies and relentless creativity made waves. His life lessons mirror the zest for living exemplified by Zorba the Greek, inspiring others to embrace change and confront their fears. Prepare for a colorful journey filled with passion and innovation!

In this insightful discussion, the power of television as a marketing tool is unveiled. It explores how beloved characters like Popeye not only entertain but also boost sales, particularly for spinach. There's a dive into The Love Boat’s impact on the cruise industry and how shows like Pawn Stars redefined Las Vegas tourism. The transformative effect of Netflix's 'Drive to Survive' on Formula 1 is highlighted, showcasing its role in reshaping audience engagement and marketing strategies in today's ad-free environment.