The Persuasion Class Podcast

Persuasion Class podcast cover art. An ambitious businessman bends a piece of steel.

You, my friend, are being manipulated. Constantly. By everyone. Now, before you start freaking out and getting yourself fitted for a tin foil hat— understand it's happening to all of us. Let's be clear: ‘manipulating’ is just a scary word for ‘handling,’ which basically means ‘affecting’ something. Every time we open our mouths, tap our keyboards, or even bat an eyelid at someone, we're trying to steer what they're thinking, feeling, or doing. Sometimes it's a just gentle nudge, sometimes it’s as subtle as a sledgehammer-blow to the forehead; sometimes, we don’t even realize we’re doing it. But we are. And so is everyone else: preachers and teachers; politicians and lawyers;

the media, actors, salespeople; your family, friends, and foes, and everyone in between are playing this game. Now, the intent behind it might be helpful...or indifferent...or downright evil...

So how do we spot this manipulation? How do we defend ourselves when it's working against our best interests? Crucially, how can we harness these persuasive powers to communicate most effectively in our personal and professional lives? For most of Western history, rhetoric— that's the art of persuasive speaking— was at the heart of the education system. Today, unless you had the privilege of an elite or specialized education, or lucked out somewhere along the line with a genuinely incredible teacher, I fear you're probably missing out. Want to start catching up?

Well, what does it take to master persuasion? Think Lincoln, Churchill, Martin Luther King Jr.— and indeed many of today’s real influencers— they all tapped into these skills that shape societies and alter the course of history. But here’s the twist— persuasive technique isn’t just for the bigwigs. It can turn anyone into a more compelling, confident, and impactful communicator.

Hi, I'm Dr Luke Beattie. Welcome to Persuasion Class: the podcast where we'll dive into the evolution of persuasion in the early days of the English language, back when folks just like you and me were trying to figure out how to use it to their advantage. We’ll unearth the practical tools of persuasion, arming you to fight towards your own goals.