Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly

In this episode from our archives, 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. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every company dreams of doubling its profit. It’s almost impossible to do. Yet, some companies do it by tweaking one tiny thing. We’ll talk about an industry that put three words on their packaging that doubled their profit. A company that created a catchy jingle that doubled their revenue overnight. And a business that changed one single word in a headline and their profit went up 100%. A favourite from our archives. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores the history and evolution of advertising in outer space, from items left behind by Apollo missions to modern commercial ventures like high-altitude food launches. It examines various brand attempts at space marketing, including billboards, logos on rockets, and orbital advertising technologies. The discussion further delves into the future of space-based marketing, covering milestones such as Columbia Sportswear's lunar landing and emerging satellite constellations designed for light-reflection advertising. The episode concludes with a critique regarding the potential for increased advertising clutter in the night sky.

This episode explores the concept of 'resuscitation' through legal and advertising lenses, beginning with a prisoner's failed legal argument regarding a completed life sentence. The discussion then transitions into the history of iconic revived advertising campaigns, examining how brands like Coca-Cola, Miller Lite, Budweiser, Old Spice, and Pepsi have successfully reimagined classic ads to connect with new generations. The episode also examines the enduring power of certain advertisements that avoid 'wear out' and concludes with a look at the lasting impact of Coca-Cola's unity-themed commercials.

In this annual 'bookmarks' episode, Terry O'Reilly explores the theme of bravery through various anecdotes from books. He discusses how individuals like director Ed Zwick, producer Jerry Weintraub, and even the Beatles demonstrated courage by facing confrontations or defying social norms to protect their work and identity. The episode further explores examples of risk-taking in television, sports, and business. It highlights the career of director James Burrough, the innovative and stubborn nature of hockey goaltender Jacques Plante, and the pioneering spirit of Lucille Ball.

This episode explores the history of Chuck Barris's 'The Gong Show' and its connection to Canadian television before transitioning into a retrospective on controversial historical advertisements. The host examines various vintage ads from the 1950s through the early 2000s that featured sexist, politically incorrect, or inappropriate themes regarding gender roles and body image. The speaker further examines advertisements ranging from 1940s DDT ads to 1980s infomercials, noting how they reflect the social norms of their respective eras. The episode concludes by reflecting on how advertising serves as a cultural record of what was considered acceptable or politically correct in the past.

This episode explores the career of Jerry Goodis, tracing his journey from a member of the folk group The Travelers to becoming a legendary figure in the Canadian advertising industry. It details the rise of his agency, Goodis Goldberg Sorin, and highlights his innovative approach to brands like Hush Puppies, Elmer's Glue, and Speedy Mufflers. The episode also examines Goodis's legendary advertising tactics, including his creative use of newspaper personal ads and his ability to create long-lasting slogans for Swiss Chalet and Harvey's. Additionally, it covers his involvement in political campaigning for Pierre Trudeau and reflects on his professional legacy and high creative standards within the Canadian advertising industry.

Terry O'Reilly explores the profound power of audio through historical recordings and innovative marketing campaigns. The episode highlights how creative use of sound—from recovered voices of legends like Gordon Lightfoot to large-scale audio stunts for social causes—can drive engagement, change perceptions, and motivate behavior. The segment further examines audio storytelling through case studies, including the Australian Federal Police's successful recruitment podcast and a campaign to reframe the historical narrative of Pocahontas. It concludes by reflecting on the versatility and profound impact of audio across various industries and social causes.

This episode explores the profound impact of Hollywood and television on automotive branding, detailing how movie placements and strategic partnerships drive global sales and brand recognition. From Lee Iacocca's bold marketing tactics to modern collaborations like Audi and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we examine how screen time translates to commercial success. The episode also delves into incredible automotive stories, such as the rediscovery of Steve McQueen's lost 'Bullitt' Mustang in a barn. Finally, it discusses the long-standing symbiotic relationship between car manufacturers and the film industry through product placement and vehicle loans.

This episode explores the history and cultural impact of sandwich boards, tracing their evolution from 19th-century British advertising to modern tools for marketing, social movements, and even legal punishment. The narrative details how these portable signs have served as instruments for both humor and protest throughout economic shifts like the Great Depression. The discussion further examines the various roles sandwich boards play in contemporary society, ranging from viral marketing and public apologies to their use in social justice. Ultimately, the episode reflects on the enduring power of these low-tech advertisements in a digital age where they remain unskippable and unfiltered.

This episode explores the discrepancy between how people report their behavior in surveys and their actual actions, using historical anecdotes like Abraham Lincoln's wrestling career to transition into modern marketing challenges. It highlights how Google searches serve as a more honest 'confessional' of human intent compared to traditional polls, which are often skewed by social desirability or intentional deception. The discussion further examines how marketers use unconventional methods like hypnosis and Google search data to uncover true consumer emotions and behaviors that traditional surveys fail to capture. While hypnosis helps brands like Starbucks access subconscious feelings, the practice remains controversial due to ethical concerns regarding intrusiveness.

This episode explores the concept of 'cheeky' and subversive advertising and its impact on brand engagement. Through various case studies—ranging from Miller Lite and Dole to more controversial campaigns like Swoop Airlines and Sex Brand—the podcast examines how pushing boundaries can generate awareness. The discussion further delves into the power of unconventional tactics, such as the Big Lou life insurance character and covert cannabis store campaigns. Ultimately, the episode highlights how while large corporations often favor safe, bland campaigns, defying convention can be an effective way to break through the noise.

This episode explores the extreme lifestyles and specialized services catering to the ultra-wealthy, from elite Norland nannies trained in martial arts to billionaire-grade space and deep-sea tourism. It details how high-end concierges fulfill increasingly extravagant and dangerous requests, such as private access to the Sistine Chapel or arranging for exotic animals. The discussion further examines Disney's exclusive luxury offerings, like Club 33, and the rising trend of high-cost extreme travel. As wealth increases, so do the demands for adventure, exclusivity, and danger, often involving immense financial power to bypass traditional boundaries.

From the Under The Influence Archives. One of our favourites. There are some time-honored honorifics in the world of marketing. “Honorifics” are titles like Mr., Mrs., Doctor, Captain or Colonel. Like Colonel Sanders, Dr. Scholl’s, Mr. Clean and Mrs. Butterworth’s. They’re usually leaders in their category. Is it because those products are the best? Or – is it because those brand names give the products a sense of respect and authority. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An encore episode of Under The Influence.... one of our favourites. Last week, we talked about the best historic demonstration commercials of all time. This week, we feature some of the most recent. Like an air freshener commercial that tricked blindfolded people into thinking a filthy toilet smelled like flowers. And a stunt where an ad agency put $3 million dollars between the glass in a bus shelter, unguarded on the street - to demonstrate a point. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An encore episode of Under The Influence.... one of our favourites. This week, I ask a dozen of the top creative directors in the advertising business to tell me the best “demonstration commercials” they have ever seen. Because there is nothing more powerful than a dramatic product demonstration. We’ll talk about a famous Krazy Glue commercial. And a Volvo ad where the ad writer risked his life to demonstrate a point. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we open the show up to our listeners, and answer your very interesting questions. Ever wonder why gas station prices always include decimal points? Well, we’ll tell you why. We’ll listen to some memorable commercials starring kids, and play “Where are they now.” And we’ll talk about a famous luxury brand that is owned by a charity. And it will surprise you. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at the level of advertising creativity north of the border. We’ll talk about a campaign that used real “sleep talking” to sell mattresses. We’ll explore a remarkable idea that transformed the annual migration of penguins into a protest march. And we’ll look at a campaign that convinced people to donate to a cause that started 45 years ago, but had faded from memory. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at a humble marketing tool. The Flexi Disc. These razor-thin, flexible vinyl records had poor sound quality, but they helped sell cars, hit songs, chewing gum, soap operas and even Beatle records. And in one case, a family won a million dollars with a flexi, and it nearly destroyed them. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we pay tribute to one of the greatest commercial directors in the ad business. You may not know the late Joe Sedelmaier by name, but you certainly know his work. He directed the famous “Fast Talking Man” ad for FedEx and a landmark commercial for Wendy’s that contained the line “Where’s the beef?” I did several commercials with Sedelmaier, and he kicked me off the set of my own commercial once. It’s a great story. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This encore episode of Under The Influence is one of our favourites of 2026. Lately, companies have been hijacking breaking news stories to create ads. When thieves broke into the Louvre with a ladder, the ladder company quickly produced a tongue-in-cheek ad. When the Oscars read the wrong Best Picture winner, an optometry chain made fun of the mix-up. It’s called Newsjacking – and it’s becoming a powerful marketing tactic. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, it’s our annual Bookmarks episode. We read a lot of books to research this show. And this episode is dedicated to the great stories that didn’t fit into our regular season. We’ll talk about the importance of numbers in marketing, and a hilarious tale about expense reports. And we’ll tell a story about a doctor who was drummed out of the medical establishment all because he insisted doctors wash their hands. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're dropping an interview I recently did with Dr. Brian Goldman, host of White Coat, Black Art, an excellent CBC radio show and podcast into our feed. We're chatting about hospital advertising. And because they rely on fundraising, we discuss how effective hospital advertising is. We thought you might find this topic interesting. Enjoy. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s part two of our episode that revisits the very first commercials ever produced for famous products. From the very first commercial for something called the Big Mac, to the first TV ad for a new doll called Barbie, we take a trip back in time. Including the very first commercials starring a couple of struggling actors who would go on to win Academy Awards. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we take a look at marketing firsts. Specifically, the very first commercials ever produced for famous products and companies. From the debut of the Jolly Green Giant, to the first AIDS PSAs, to the very first pharmaceutical ad, all the way to the first iPhone commercial, we say hello to these products and issues for the very first time. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we talk about spectacular landmarks built by visionary entrepreneurs. These magnificent buildings stand in Toronto, New York and Chicago. They are all very different in design, built in different eras, but they share one thing in common. They are all named after famous brands. And it’s easy to forget that. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, it’s our annual Brand Envy episode, where I tip my hat to great ideas that have lasted for years. We’ll talk about a very funny character who has made the world laugh without uttering a single word. An idea that was born on the side of highways. And we’ll talk about a movie that has had the longest run in cinema history. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we're dropping an episode from our sister podcast, "We Regret To Inform You: The Rejection Podcast". In this podcast series, we talk about the mountain of rejections famous and successful people had to overcome and how they did it. In this episode, we talk about the golden piece of advice Rue McClanahan’s mother gave her when she was told she’d never make it in television. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at the marketing of violent sports. Starting with a man named Tex Rickard, who wrote the playbook on fight promotion back in the 1920s. We’ll analyze how WWE pro wrestling took a page from Rickard to create spectacles. And we look at the phenomenon that is the UFC – and how mixed martial arts promotion can be carbon-dated all the way back to Rickard in the ‘20s. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at weird, unhinged advertising. Like the “PuppyMonkeyBaby” Super Bowl commercial. The sad Skittles commercial where everything a man touches turns to Skittles. A leather diaper you can wear to heavy metal concerts so you won’t miss any songs. And a pizza that takes a year and a half to be delivered to your home. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we listen to the most creative use of sound and voice. Like the mattress company that gave people discounts based on how loud they snored. We’ll explore a radio campaign that says ugly is a superpower. And we’ll play a vinyl record that was left out in the sun that warns people about the harmful effects of UV rays. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are many products in the world that have “unintended uses.” Originally designed for one purpose, the general public has discovered alternate uses for these items. From Windex to baking soda to Ozempic, the makers of these products had no idea they would be used for so many unimagined tasks. And in one story today, the alternate use of diapers may surprise you. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Oscars around the corner, we take a look at creative movie marketing. We’ll talk about miniature billboards that promoted Ant-Man. A billboard that actually sweated to promote an action film. And we’ll discuss a movie that was saved by a Beatle – then got banned, and was a box office success. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we tip our hat to the tiny, small innovations that make our lives better. Like the tiny arrow on your fuel gauge. And the bread clip. And the miniscule treadwear indicators on your car tires. In every case, the inventor saw something nobody else saw, and their miniature ideas went down in history. Small Wonders. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at the link between food and cars. Did you know that Volkswagen makes sausages. And Rolls-Royce makes honey. Did you know cars have even been named after foods and beverages – like the Mitsubishi Pistachio and the Suzuki Cappuccino. It’s true – and it’s tasty marketing. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at the staying power of Catalogues. They’ve been around since the mid 1800s, and they helped build the country. We’ll talk about how catalogues let retailers reach people in far-flung towns and villages. How catalogues finally allowed rural folks to have access to the same goods as city dwellers. And how Seinfeld’s J. Peterman became an owner of the actual J. Peterman catalogue. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In celebration of World Radio Day, we look back on some of the most creative radio advertising from around the world. It’s the toughest medium to write for – but it’s also the most creatively freeing. We’ll hear commercials for a hair removal product, a fast-food series created for these confusing times and a student audio idea that attracted Taylor Swift. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Super Bowl 60 had an interesting mix of commercials - from humorous to emotional to plain weird. Terry ranks his favs and compares his list to audience favs. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at a sub-category of jingles. Most successful jingles are catchy little earworms. But these particular little ditties use lyrics to tell you how to use the product, or how to play the advertised game. They’re not just catchy… they’re rhythmic instruction manuals. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inspired by the Beatles, Genny Schorr was a member of one of the first female punk bands in LA. She co-owned a vintage fashion store frequented by rock stars, and was wardrobe stylist for the Bangles, Tom Petty, and Linda Ronstadt. Her spouse is Kosh, who was the creative director of Apple Records for the Beatles. Her new book is titled “All Roads Lead To Punk: Riding the First Wave of the Phenomenal Los Angeles Punk Scene Through Music and Fashion" - and she has one fascinating story to tell. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at “Rage Marketing.” Where a company or organization intentionally provokes the public to get angry. And hopefully spend money. We’ll look at the American Eagle/Sydney Sweeney controversy. We’ll talk about an actress who faked her own death to make a point. And how Connecticut made New Yorkers furious when it said it makes the best pizza in the country. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at “Clapback Ads.” A clapback ad is a response or retaliation to another commercial. We’ll talk about a Canadian province that took offence to a Vrbo ad. A youth orchestra who retaliated against a big car commercial. And a tech company CEO who got caught having an affair – which forced his company to respond - with humour. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The world of marketing has discovered there’s money to be made in creating fake ads. But, they’re not trying to fool you - they’re trying to entertain you. Companies are creating fake ads and fake stores and even fake mistakes - on purpose - in order to gain your attention. The trick is to appear absolutely legitimate. While gently pulling your leg at the same time. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You asked, we listened. For the first time ever, both Android and Apple users can now get access to our exclusive subscriber-only bonus option. And we’re offering more exclusive content than ever to our subscribers. Introducing Apostrophe All Ears. You get: ad-free listening (tisk tisk), early access, extended episodes, Q&As PLUS access to all other Apostrophe shows (Backstage at the Vinyl Cafe, We Regret To Inform You, The Beatlology Interviews) – with bonus episodes, virtual events, chats with the hosts, merch discounts & more. Subscribe now – and get a special founder's discount. Already a subscriber on Apple Podcasts? Don’t worry – your subscription doesn’t change, and you’ll continue to enjoy uninterrupted access. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you want to listen to this show about advertising ad-free, subscribe here. Today we’re sharing an episode of Marketing Against The Grain — a show that leads you down the rabbit hole of marketing trends, growth tactics, and innovation. In this episode, co-hosts Kipp Bodnar (CMO of HubSpot) and Kieran Flanagan (CMO of Zapier), dive into a leaked memo from Yahoo that explains why big businesses fail. If you like what you hear, search for Marketing Against The Grain in your favorite podcast app. Like the one you’re using right now ;) We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lately companies have been hijacking breaking news stories to create ads. When thieves broke into the Louvre with a ladder, the ladder company quickly produced a tongue-in-cheek ad. When the Oscars read the wrong Best Picture winner, an optometry chain made fun of the mix-up. It’s called Newsjacking - and it’s becoming a powerful marketing tactic. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at the most creative audio ideas from around the world. Including a podcast for runners that only works if you’re actually running, a police recruitment campaign that capitalized on the popularity of True Crime, and a very ambitious alternative audio track created to be played over Disney’s Pocahontas movie – that tells the truth behind the fairy tale. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we analyze the remarkable marketing skills of one of the top music artists in the world - Taylor Swift. She has challenged the status quo at every turn - she regained ownership of her master recordings. She convinced Apple and Spotify to pay artists in a more equitable way. She defied Hollywood. She markets her music to her fans in very surprising ways. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we go one toke over the line and look at the emerging world of cannabis marketing. We start with the question - just how does a plant become illegal? We'll explore the history of cannabis. We'll talk about which celebrities have their own brands (Hello Willie Nelson!) Which high-end retail stores are now selling expensive cannabis paraphernalia. And which non-cannabis businesses are seeing a surprising uptick in sales - like fertilizer companies and fast-food restaurants. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we look at a strange phenomenon happening in Canada. Well-established brands are suddenly leaving the country. Kleenex is leaving after nearly 100 years. Skippy Peanut Butter has skipped the country after nearly 90 years. And KFC actually held a funeral for their terrible-tasting French fries. What’s happening up here? Find out. We know you want to listen to all the ads in this show. On the off-chance you don’t, subscribe ad-free here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.