Terry O'Reilly

Terry O'Reilly is a Canadian broadcast producer, radio personality, and advertising veteran recognized for his expertise in the art and science of persuasion. He is known as the host of the CBC Radio One series "O'Reilly on Advertising," "The Age of Persuasion," and "Under the Influence," which examine the cultural and sociological impact of advertising and marketing on modern life. O'Reilly began his career as an advertising copywriter in radio and later launched his own radio and television advertising production company, Pirate Radio and Television. Throughout his career, he has created campaigns for brands such as Labatt, Pepsi USA, Goodyear Tires, Tim Hortons, Nissan, and The Hudson's Bay Company.

"Under the Influence" is a Canadian radio documentary series about marketing and advertising that has attracted over a million radio listeners per week and more than 25 million podcast downloads. The program follows two previous series hosted by O'Reilly: "O'Reilly on Advertising" and "The Age of Persuasion." The New York Radio Festivals awarded "Under the Influence" the Grand Prize as Best Radio Program, and iTunes recognized it as "Best New Podcast" and one of the Best Podcasts. A Globe & Mail study named it the most-listened-to Canadian podcast.

O'Reilly has expanded his broadcasting success into a body of written work. With co-producer Mike Tennant, he published the book "The Age of Persuasion: How Marketing Ate Our Culture." He is also the author of "This I Know" and "My Best Mistake," which was a finalist for the National Business Book Award. His book "Against the Grain" explores individuals who challenge conventional wisdom and push for change in their industries.

O'Reilly has received national and international awards for writing and directing, and has served as Canadian judge for the inaugural year of Radio at the Cannes Advertising Festival in France, as well as Radio Chairman for both the International Clio Awards in Miami and the London International Advertising Awards. He has been honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards by the Advertising & Design Club of Canada, the Television Bureau of Canada, and the American Marketing Association. O'Reilly has received honorary degrees from McMaster University, Humber College, and St. Mary's University in Halifax.

As a keynote speaker, O'Reilly addresses key marketing issues facing companies and organizations, including the importance of emotion in marketing, the relationship between customer service and profit, strategies for changing negative perceptions, and the value of outsmarting rather than outspending competitors. He has directed actors such as Alec Baldwin, Ellen DeGeneres, Bob Newhart, and Martin Short. His work provides audiences with insights into the advertising industry, connecting pop culture, marketing, and human behavior.