4 chapters across the catalog
An anecdote regarding the Forbes yacht, "The Highlander," illustrates the perceived corruption in the advertising industry. Media buyers—often young graduates—were treated to lavish trips around Manhattan to secure advertising placements in magazines they never actually read, a practice that continues to influence how corporate ad dollars are spent today.
The show conducted a knighting ceremony for several high-level donors, including Adam Ziegler and Steve Weiss. Weiss, based in Las Vegas, noted the constant media focus on "cases, cases, cases" in Nevada. The ceremony is a staple of the show's listener-supported model, granting titles like "Sir" and "Dame" to those who provide significant financial support.
Media Buyers, The Highlander Yacht, and Drudge Report
An aside explores the world of corporate advertising and the lifestyle of young media buyers in New York. The hosts describe lavish trips on the Forbes yacht, The Highlander, used to court advertisers who often don't read the publications they buy space in. They also note a Drudge Report headline featuring mac and cheese, suggesting the site's editors listen to the podcast.
Advertising Industry Culture, Forbes Yacht Anecdote
The hosts criticize the modern advertising industry, claiming it is run by inexperienced "millennials" who prioritize perks over product knowledge. An anecdote is shared about the Forbes yacht, "The Highlander," which was used to wine and dine media buyers in Manhattan to secure ad placements. They conclude that much of the industry is built on "gimmicks" rather than actual market science.
