Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly

Dive into the Canadian brand landscape as the discussion highlights iconic successes like Aldo and Catelli, blending innovation with cultural significance. Discover the fascinating backstory of the world-class cymbal maker, Sabian Symbols, and its ties to a beloved children's show. Explore the resilience of a family-owned business in New Brunswick that thrives against competition. This lively celebration of Canadian entrepreneurship showcases how these brands foster loyalty and admiration on both local and global stages.

This week, we take a look at one of the tools of political marketing – the campaign song. Politicians have used songs going all the way back to at least the 1700s. Sometimes the songs are written expressly for the political party or candidate. Sometimes, politicians co-opt pop songs. And sometimes, pop artists have a major problem with that. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the most shocking brand fails of 2024, featuring Apple's thinnest computer that turned into a PR nightmare. Delve into a controversial candle that ignited accusations of white supremacy. There's also a hilarious twist involving a children's doll that mistakenly linked to a porn site. Learn how these blunders highlight the importance of cultural sensitivity in marketing and the unpredictable nature of consumer reactions. Tune in for insights and laughter as we explore the wild world of brand missteps!

Movie theaters are reinventing themselves to attract audiences in the age of streaming. From luxurious dining options to dynamic loyalty programs, these venues are going all out. They’re even offering immersive “atmospheric” experiences with effects like wind and scents that enhance the film. The competition is fierce, and cinemas are making every effort to ensure there's no place like the big screen.

Discover the forbidden aspects of marketing, including strict rules on using national anthems and sounds in ads. Uncover the past bans on chess and their ethical implications for branding today. Delve into a poignant ad tied to women's rights and the Roe v. Wade verdict, sparking debate over lost freedoms. Explore how Winnie the Pooh was censored in China for resembling a leader, highlighting the fine line between branding and political authority. It's a wild ride through unexpected marketing challenges!

Delve into the magic of comedy with a spotlight on SNL's legendary commercial parodies. Discover how 'Airplane!' transformed dramatic narratives into sharp satire and influenced generations of ad writers. Explore the evolution of parody in advertising, showcasing iconic spoofs and the cultural critiques embedded in humor. Uncover the legal battles surrounding famous parodies and witness the profound impact pop culture has on the advertising landscape. It's a humorous journey through the intersection of comedy and consumer culture.

Discover how brands ingeniously tackle negative comments on social media. Supercuts turns jabs about cheap haircuts into an amusing ad campaign. Spirit Airlines offers haters a chance to vent and rewards them with free air miles. Meanwhile, Oatly takes it a step further by dedicating a website to their critics. The discussion highlights how these companies transform criticism into creative marketing strategies, proving that embracing negativity can lead to success.

Dive into the quirky world of unusual fragrances where bacon perfume and mayonnaise cologne exist! Discover how scents, like those capturing the essence of dive bars and comfort foods, challenge traditional ideas of personal expression. Explore marketing strategies that blend humor with creativity, captivating consumers with odd aromas. From gas-scented soap to sustainable luxury perfumes, the episode showcases how fragrances can evoke memories and emotions, making us reconsider what we want to smell like.

Explore how history's most intriguing figures mastered personal style to create strong brands. From Julius Caesar's shocking attire to Charlie Chaplin's timeless 'Little Tramp,' consistency plays a key role. Delve into the iconic colors of Johnny Cash and Prince, illustrating how a singular look can leave a lasting impression. Discover how style isn't just about fashion but a powerful tool for cultural influence.

The fascinating marketing journey of ice reveals its transformation from a luxury into a daily necessity. Discover how Frederick Tudor pioneered ice trade, overcoming challenges to educate consumers. The rise of ice entertainment, especially the captivating Ice Capades, reshaped public perception during tough times. Innovations like iceboxes revolutionized food preservation and health, while the competition between natural and artificial ice producers ignited an industrial boom. Ice's impact on modern life touches various sectors, from dining to healthcare.