Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing

Envoice Media
  • 5.0 (3)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing

Welcome to 'Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing,' a podcast that explores the intricate dance between the human psyche and the world of marketing. Join hosts Gene and Darren as they explore how psychological principles influence marketing strategies, and vice versa, revealing the subtle art of persuasion that shapes our decisions and behaviors. Each episode of 'Manipulation Games' will take you on a journey through fascinating topics at the intersection of psychology and marketing. From the role of storytelling in brand creation to the psychological triggers behind consumer behavior, Gene and Darren unpack the tactics and strategies used by marketers to captivate their audience. But it's not just about marketing. 'Manipulation Games' also shines a light on how understanding these principles can lead to personal growth and better decision-making. Through insightful discussions, expert interviews, and real-world examples, this podcast will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the manipulative tactics in marketing and everyday life. Whether you're a marketing professional seeking to refine your craft, a psychology enthusiast curious about the power of influence, or someone interested in the ethical implications of manipulation, 'Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing' promises a thought-provoking exploration of how we are shaped and motivated by the world around us. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the mind and the market, one episode at a time.

  1. Privacy Threats Facing Americans & Why TikTok Should Be Banned w/ Andrew Bloom

    FEB 14

    Privacy Threats Facing Americans & Why TikTok Should Be Banned w/ Andrew Bloom

    We discuss the complexities of data privacy, identity, and digital security on Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing podcast with special guest Andrew Bloom. Starting with a true story about a cybersecurity breach at the U.S. Treasury Department on December 8th, 2024, we explore the far-reaching effects of cyber-attacks, including the breach of 22 million identities.  Join Darren, Gene, and Andrew Bloom, as we unpack the three categories of personal information, sensitive information, and health information that we willingly or unknowingly share every day. From common identifiers like names and addresses to more intricate ones like biometric data and genetic code, we discuss how these can be exploited for nefarious purposes. We also touch on the controversial subject of TikTok and its implications for national security, highlighting the potential dangers of a powerful identity graph in the hands of a foreign adversary. This episode is a must-watch for anyone concerned about privacy in the digital age.  We talk through various info cards that illustrate the ease of data inference and the real-time demonstration of how much big tech companies knows about you! Timestamps:00:00 A Cybersecurity Breach Unfolds02:52 Welcome to Manipulation Games with Andrew Bloom03:38 The Importance of Privacy06:53 Defining Privacy09:26 Understanding Personal Information11:53 Exploring Personal Identifiers21:49 The Impact of Age and Gender in Marketing37:20 Sensitive Personal Information (SPI)37:42 The Flaws of Social Security Numbers41:21 Driver's License Numbers and Surveillance42:28 Bank Account and Credit Card Security44:31 Criminal History and Its Implications48:40 The Sensitivity of GPS Location Data52:57 Health Information and Privacy Concerns58:08 Biometric Data and Genetic Code01:04:06 Understanding Pseudonymous Identifiers01:10:07 Methods of Re-identification01:13:53 Case Study: Mark Robinson's Private Re-Identification01:20:28 The Power of Identity Graphs01:28:01 The TikTok Controversy01:43:04 The Privacy Paradox and Future Implications01:55:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    1h 56m
  2. Crafting Luxury: The Secrets of Luxury Branding Through the Alchemy of Craftsmanship, Mythology, & Status

    JAN 16

    Crafting Luxury: The Secrets of Luxury Branding Through the Alchemy of Craftsmanship, Mythology, & Status

    Want to start your own luxury brand?  You've come to the right podcast episode!  We unravel the art and science of luxury branding by breaking it down into three essential ingredients: Craftsmanship, Mythology, and Status. Through stories, insights, and discussion, we explore how these elements work together to transform everyday products into symbols of aspiration, power, and exclusivity. We cover the three ingredient of luxury branding: Craftsmanship: The magic of timeless luxury items, from Hermès bags made by a single artisan to the meticulous double-stitching that elevates the ordinary into the extraordinary.Mythology: How brands like Chanel and Gucci weave powerful narratives to enchant their customers, from legendary fashion shows to the mystique of creators like Tom Ford and Karl Lagerfeld.Status: Why luxury brands become coveted status symbols, including the psychology behind handbags, the allure of exotic materials, and how brands signal exclusivity.We dive into the psychology of luxury, the spectacle of marketing, and even the parallels between luxury brands and religion. Some Topics Covered: The role of handmade excellence in luxury, from artisan-crafted bags to the double-stitched perfection of designer goods.The psychology behind status symbols, including the neuroscience of how labels and logos enhance our pleasure.The spectacle of fashion shows and how brands create buzz.The surprising parallels between luxury brands and religion, from sacred spaces to the promise of transformation.Join hosts Gene and Darren with special guest Maryna, a fashion photographer, joins the discussion about creating buzz, telling visual stories, and capturing the allure of luxury brands. Discover how luxury brands turn 'lead into gold' and learn valuable strategies for anyone looking to step into the world of high-end marketing! Timestamps:00:00 Intro: The Mysterious Tova Perfume Launch04:40 Welcome to Manipulation Games05:33 The Alchemy of Luxury Brands08:08 The Magical Spell of Luxury12:00 Three Ingredients of Luxury Branding13:39 Craftsmanship: The Human Touch23:07 Craftsmanship: Everyday Carry26:51 Craftsmanship: Moving Top Down33:53 Craftsmanship: The Chanel Pyramid37:19 Craftsmanship: The Loss of Craftsmanship42:53 Craftsmanship: The Taste for the Exotic49:04 Mythology: Fashion Shows59:45 Mythology: Advertising vs Press Coverage01:02:24 Mythology: Saving a Brand - The Tom Ford Strategy01:04:50 Mythology: The Need For Speed01:08:26 Mythology: The Neuroscience of Handbags01:11:06 Mythology: Luxury Worship01:14:16 Mythology: You Don't Need To Be Old01:19:02 Mythology: The Vampirism of Luxury Houses01:24:32 Mythology: Call to Adventure01:27:54 Mythology: Cover Up Your Dark Past01:31:35 Mythology: The Hollywood Connection01:36:08 Status: Luxury as Conformity01:38:47 Status: Originality is an Aristocratic Privilege01:40:44 Status: Breaking Economics 101 - Veblen Good01:44:15 Status: High Status & Detachment01:47:54 Status: The Game Theory of Status Signaling01:52:45 Status: Target Customers Make the Brand01:54:53 Status: Danger of False Status Claims01:57:58 Status: Status Anxiety02:01:06 Status: Clothes Make the Man02:03:31 Status: Banning Customers02:06:08 Conclusion Thank you for listening to Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing podcast! #LuxuryBranding #BrandMarketing #MarketingPodcast

    2h 7m
  3. Augustus Caesar PR Masterclass: Marketing Psychology Lessons from Ancient Rome, "The Boy" Emperor

    JAN 2

    Augustus Caesar PR Masterclass: Marketing Psychology Lessons from Ancient Rome, "The Boy" Emperor

    Lets discuss the marketing psychology behind Augustus, Rome's first emperor, in this episode of Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing. Gene and Darren, joined by Dr. Ian Silva, a PhD in Classics from Princeton, explore Augustus’ rise to power and his revolutionary use of branding, propaganda, and public perception to shape history. From his unexpected rise to power after the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC, to his masterful use of PR and symbolism to shape public perception, we explore how the young Augustus navigated the turbulent political landscape of ancient Rome. Discover how Augustus leveraged events, imagery, and clever branding to position himself as a revered leader and how these ancient lessons remain relevant today. Learn how Augustus transformed from an unassuming 18-year-old into the ruler of an empire, using: - Symbolism and storytelling to create his “divine” image- Strategic partnerships with poets like Virgil to craft narratives- Spectacle and public events to win the hearts of the people- Messaging, audience targeting, and brand building Through parallels with modern marketing and politics, this episode highlights how ancient techniques continue to influence today's strategies. Whether you're a history buff or an aspiring marketer or influencer, you'll uncover insights from one of history’s greatest manipulators of public perception and personal branding. Timestamps: 00:00 The Assassination of Julius Caesar 01:30 Introduction to the Podcast 01:58 Augustus: The Rise of a Leader 06:21 The Political Landscape of Rome 22:12 The Alliance and the Triumvirate 24:22 Mark Antony and Cleopatra 31:44 Augustus' Propaganda Techniques 34:25 The Role of Poets in Roman Politics 40:11 Modern Parallels: Rewriting History 42:23 Augustus' Military Strategy and Leadership 44:43 Caesar vs. Augustus: Leadership Styles 48:26 The Power of Names and Symbols 55:41 Augustus' Legacy and the Importance of Symbolism 58:43 The Capricorn Symbol and Augustus' Mausoleum 01:05:52 The Timelessness of Effective Branding 01:08:57 Conclusion 🛎️ Don't forget to follow our channel and podcast for more in-depth explorations into the psychology and marketing strategies that influence our world. #Augustus #MarketingPsychology #RomanHistory #Psychology #MarketingStrategies #AncientRomanHistory

    1h 10m
  4. Starting a Cult: The Psychological Tactics High Control Groups Use To Terminate Thought

    11/27/2024

    Starting a Cult: The Psychological Tactics High Control Groups Use To Terminate Thought

    We explore cults and the thought terminating tactics they use to manipulate and control those trapped within them.   You'll learn about red flags to look out for, and how to draw the line between a dangerous cult tactics or cultish behavior.  You'll also learn to answer the simple question, "Are you in a cult?" by outlining the cult tactics that cause harmful behavior. We begin with the true story of Ron Jones' 1967 experiment at Cubberley High School in Palo Alto, which illustrated how easily people can fall into high-control group dynamics. We break down key concepts like 'thought-terminating cliches' that nullify critical thinking, and 'loaded language' that redefines familiar terms to control perception. The podcast also touches on the psychological needs cults meet, such as the need for certainty and transcendent experiences, making them dangerously compelling. We also dissect how cults exert control over individuals, utilizing tactics such as love bombing and the manipulation of language. We explore the psychological allure of cults, such as the certainty they offer and the transcendent experiences they provide. Key examples, from the Jonestown Massacre to modern-day fitness cults and multi-level marketing (MLM) companies illustrate these techniques in action. The episode serves as both an educational tool and a cautionary tale, stressing the importance of critical thinking and awareness to avoid falling prey to manipulation. From historical case studies like Jim Jones and the Manson Family to modern examples like NXIVM and commercial entities borrowing cult-like tactics, this episode uncovers the myriad of ways high-control groups maintain their grip on followers. Through personal anecdotes and research, we aim to equip listeners with the knowledge to recognize and resist manipulative influences. Whether you're interested in psychology, history, or marketing, this episode offers valuable insights into the dark art of manipulation. Join Darren and Gene as we unravel the mechanics behind one of the most terrifying facets of human psychology on Manipulation Games: Psychology and Marketing podcast! Timestamps00:00 The Third Wave Experiment: A Chilling Lesson03:11 Introduction to Cult Psychology04:30 Psychological Tactics of Cults08:10 The Milgram Experiment: Obedience to Authority10:48 Prevalence of Cults in Modern Society26:23 Defining and Identifying Cults44:14 Appeal of Cults and Red Flags45:55 Scientology and the Internet's Impact47:45 NXIVM: From Success Courses to Scandal48:56 The Power of Indoctrination52:28 The Role of Certainty and Transcendent Experiences01:01:38 The Importance of Critical Thinking01:13:12 The Allure of Transcendent Experiences01:24:48 Physical and Mental Transcendence01:30:57 The Power of Hypnosis and Suggestibility01:32:54 The Desire to Believe in the Supernatural01:34:19 Transcendent Experiences and Cult-Like Therapy01:37:50 The Appeal and Control Tactics of Cults01:56:18 The Role of Language in Cults02:08:36 Recognizing Cultish Behavior in Everyday Life02:13:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    2h 14m
  5. Unlocking Charisma: How Power and Warmth Can Develop Irrational Influence Through Emotional Resonance

    10/24/2024

    Unlocking Charisma: How Power and Warmth Can Develop Irrational Influence Through Emotional Resonance

    We discuss the psychology of charisma on the topic of "Becoming Magnetic" We break down the enigmatic qualities that make some people irresistibly charismatic and others struggle to connect, despite being equally capable or talented. Emotional Resonance & Charisma, the art of influence isn't always logical! If you've ever wondered why certain individuals naturally attract attention and admiration—be it in relationships, business, or leadership—this episode is for you. Gene explains how charisma operates on an emotional, rather than logical, level, and compares it to learning to play a musical instrument. Discover the hidden dynamics of power, warmth, and presence, and learn how you can develop these traits to elevate your personal and professional life. Topics Covered: What is charisma, and why it matters in career, dating, sales, and leadership.The science behind charisma as "irrational influence" and how it shapes our perceptions.How psychological research reveals the factors contributing to charisma.The role of emotional resonance and communication, likened to a musical instrument.Practical strategies to develop both stage charisma and personal charisma.Insights from FBI hostage negotiation techniques that can help foster personal charisma in everyday interactions.Key Takeaways: Charisma can be learned: It’s not an innate gift but a skill you can practice, like playing the chords of a guitar.Cocky-Funny: A formula that combines fun and arrogance to create magnetic energy.Presence & Warmth: The foundation of personal charisma is making others feel heard and understood.Emotional Contagion: The secret behind resonant leadership and how it boosts team performance.Tactical Empathy: Techniques from hostage negotiation that translate into better personal interactions.If you’ve ever felt overshadowed or overlooked, this episode will empower you to unlock the secrets of charisma and use it to transform your social interactions, leadership potential, and personal confidence.00:00 Intro04:40 The Recipe for Charisma06:18 Charisma as a Learnable Skill & Musical Metaphor17:08 The Hidden Forces of Charisma24:19 MIT Media Lab Research28:55 Factor Analysis of Charisma35:27 The Halo Effect and Charismatic Leaders37:17 Story of Gabriele D'Annunzio41:15 Seminar Industry, Dark Side of Charisma44:03 Marketing Lessons from Eben Pagan46:10 The Concept of 'Cocky Funny'49:31 Balancing Power and Warmth55:27 Different Forms of Power01:06:40 Emotional Contagion and Stage Charisma01:15:58 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership01:20:08 Setting the Mood: The Leader's Role01:24:51 Resonant Leadership: Internal State Management01:28:47 Developing Charisma: Practice Makes Perfect01:44:34 FBI Hostage Negotiation Techniques01:59:00 Conclusion

    2 hr
  6. Becoming Someone Else: Personas, Alter Egos, Masquerades, and Playing the Fool

    09/30/2024

    Becoming Someone Else: Personas, Alter Egos, Masquerades, and Playing the Fool

    We dig deep into the transformative power of personas, masks, and alter egos. Discover how becoming someone else can actually lead you to your most authentic self and help you break through psychological barriers holding you back. Episode Highlights: 1. Ego Protection & Freedom from Being Yourself - Historical Significance of Masks: Explore how masks have been used throughout history, from the Venetian Carnival to ancient Roman festivals, to provide anonymity and flatten social hierarchies.- The Concept of the Shadow Self: Dive into Jungian psychology and understand how acknowledging and embracing your hidden side can lead to personal growth.- Authenticity Through Role Play: Learn why adopting a persona can free you from societal constraints and allow you to express your true self without fear or shame. 2. Performance Enhancement Through Alter Egos - Athletes & Alter Egos: Hear about how sports legends like Kobe Bryant ("Black Mamba") and Beyoncé ("Sasha Fierce") used alter egos to enhance their performance and separate their professional and personal lives.- Enclothed Cognition: Discover the science behind how wearing certain clothing can influence your cognition and behavior, boosting confidence and performance.- Practical Applications: Get tips on how you can create and use your own persona or alter ego to overcome self-doubt and achieve your goals. 3. Wrapping the Message & Playing the Fool - The Archetype of the Fool: Understand how playing the fool can be a powerful tool in conveying truth and wisdom, as seen in literature and modern media.- Humor & Messaging: Learn how humor and exaggerated characters can make messages more impactful and digestible, citing examples from marketing and entertainment.- Authentic Communication: Find out how adopting a persona can help you communicate more effectively and authentically with others. Why You Should Listen:- Break Psychological Barriers: If you've ever felt held back by self-imposed limitations, this episode offers actionable insights into overcoming those barriers.- Enhance Your Performance: Whether in sports, arts, or business, learn how adopting an alter ego can elevate your performance to new heights.- Improve Communication Skills: Gain strategies on how to make your message more compelling and engaging through personas. Join the Conversation:Have you ever used a persona or alter ego to navigate through life's challenges? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of the Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing podcast with Gene and Darren. If you found this episode valuable, please share it with friends and colleagues who might benefit from it. 00:00 Intro01:12 About Personas02:29 Exploring the Concept of Authenticity05:24 The Shadow Self and Role Play10:17 Ego Protection and Performance Enhancement14:11 The History and Symbolism of Masks33:39 The Alter Ego Effect in Sports41:08 Marilyn Monroe: A Case Study in Personas46:45 The Role of Personas in Acting and Music49:53 The Power of Persona in Music50:26 Ego Protection and Exaggerated Versions of Self56:38 Enclothed Cognition: The Science of Performance Enhancement01:03:09 The Role of Symbols and Totems01:13:27 The Fool: Communicating Through Exaggerated Characters01:28:02 Wrapping Up: Embracing Alter Egos

    1h 31m
  7. Unlocking Hypnosis: Influence and Marketing Techniques Using the Power of Descriptive Language

    08/26/2024

    Unlocking Hypnosis: Influence and Marketing Techniques Using the Power of Descriptive Language

    Gene and Darren explore the real-world impact of hypnosis, explaining how it works and how it's used in both therapy and marketing. We look into the science behind neuroplasticity and show how vivid, descriptive language can guide people into certain emotional states, making them more open to suggestions and influence. We also discuss how hypnosis can help rewire the brain for personal change, like overcoming fears and trauma, while also showing how marketing companies use similar techniques to shape perceptions and behaviors. From branding to self-hypnosis, we investigate how the power of suggestion shapes the world around us, whether we're aware of it or not. 00:00 Intro00:51 Welcome to Manipulation Games02:50 Emotional Decision Making05:51 Power of Descriptive Language10:09 Hypnosis and Therapy18:45 Marketing and Hypnosis30:04 The Evolution of Smoking Perception31:12 Branding and Hypnotic Associations37:04 Trauma, PTSD, and Hypnosis40:39 Self-Hypnosis and Overcoming Fears48:02 Hypnosis in Marketing and Sales01:00:27 Conclusion Welcome to Manipulation Games: Psychology and Marketing podcast where we bridge the gap between psychology and marketing to break down our understanding on how to become better marketers and influencers.

    1h 2m
  8. How Google Lost Its Way: From "Don't Be Evil" to Illegal Monopoly with Andrew Bloom

    08/13/2024

    How Google Lost Its Way: From "Don't Be Evil" to Illegal Monopoly with Andrew Bloom

    Inside Google's Ad Monopoly: Unveiling the DOJ's Major Decision and Future In this eye-opening episode of the Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing podcast, we dig deep into the remarkable revelations about Google's alleged monopoly and the significant decision by the Department of Justice that found the tech giant in violation of Section 2 of the Sherman Act. Join our host and expert marketing guest Andrew Bloom as we explore how Google's dominance in advertising and search has molded the digital landscape and often crossed ethical boundaries, especially through the notorious 'Code Yellow' project. We reveal the techniques Google used to manipulate auctions for maximum revenue and discuss the widespread consequences for advertisers and users. The episode spans Google's rise to power, its initial ethical stance, and the shift to profit-driven motives. Additionally, we analyze the operational intricacies of Google's auction system for product recommendation ads and the need for a transparent, ethical framework in AI-driven advertising. Our conversation extends to the long-term impact of monopolistic practices in ad tech, drawing parallels with historic tech disruptions. We conclude with an optimistic discussion on fostering ethical behavior through structured incentives and the potential for innovative solutions from the tech community.  Don’t miss out on this comprehensive analysis whether you're an industry pro, an advertiser, or a Google product user. 00:00 Introduction: Why Are We Talking About Google?02:38 The Power of Targeted Advertising05:22 The DOJ's High-Profile Decision Against Google06:37 Google's Mission and Early Ideals12:16 The Evolution of Search Engines15:31 The Birth of Google and PageRank27:00 Google's Auction System and Quality Score44:18 Monopolies & DOJ's Findings on Google's Practices44:46 The Importance of Search Advertising47:35 Google's Market Dominance and Lack of Competition49:41 Code Yellow: Google's Dark Strategy58:08 Shadow Bidding and Artificial Inflation01:11:31 The Role of AI in Search and Advertising01:19:35 The Future of Advertising and Regulation

    1h 27m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to 'Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing,' a podcast that explores the intricate dance between the human psyche and the world of marketing. Join hosts Gene and Darren as they explore how psychological principles influence marketing strategies, and vice versa, revealing the subtle art of persuasion that shapes our decisions and behaviors. Each episode of 'Manipulation Games' will take you on a journey through fascinating topics at the intersection of psychology and marketing. From the role of storytelling in brand creation to the psychological triggers behind consumer behavior, Gene and Darren unpack the tactics and strategies used by marketers to captivate their audience. But it's not just about marketing. 'Manipulation Games' also shines a light on how understanding these principles can lead to personal growth and better decision-making. Through insightful discussions, expert interviews, and real-world examples, this podcast will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the manipulative tactics in marketing and everyday life. Whether you're a marketing professional seeking to refine your craft, a psychology enthusiast curious about the power of influence, or someone interested in the ethical implications of manipulation, 'Manipulation Games: Psychology & Marketing' promises a thought-provoking exploration of how we are shaped and motivated by the world around us. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the mind and the market, one episode at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Envoice Media
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Envoice Media

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