WARNING: EXPLICIT LANGUAGE

George Parker is one hilarious effin’ guy. And he’s loaded with perspective on the ad biz. Wonder why he calls agencies “Big Dumb Agencies”? Or who the “Poison Dwarf” is? Or what the best TV spot ever is (it’s not what you think)?

Welcome to the Ideasicle Podcast, where we attempt to untangle the mysteries of the elusive idea. Just click George’s picture to get answers to those effin’ questions and much more, or subscribe to the Ideasicle Podcast through iTunes to never miss an episode.

George Parker has spent more than thirty five years in the Madison avenue salt mines with such major agencies as Ogilvy & Mather, Y&R, Chiat Day, JWT and many others. He’s worked in New York, San Francisco, London, Paris, Stockholm and Detroit. In the course of his career he’s won Cannes Lions, CLIOs, EFFIES, the David Ogilvy Award and several hundred other bits of tin and plastic. His blog AdScam, which was named one of the four best ad blogs in the world by Campaign Magazine, is required reading for those looking for a piss & vinegar view of the world’s second oldest profession.

He’s also written a new book called, “The Ubiquitous Persuaders.” Buy it at the Ideasicle Garage Sale (scroll down for books).

Show Notes:

  • George begins by talking about the “creative rennaissance” that was the 1960’s.
  • We discuss how important it is to respect the audience.
  • George challenges convention as to the “best TV commercial of all time” (it’s not the one you think it is). It’s the one at the bottom of this page!
  • Here’s a concept for marketers: be interesting.
  • The power of niche marketing in today’s connected world – being everything to someone is better than being nothing to everyone.
  • George knows, and has worked with, Steve Jobs, and tells us some tales.
  • How the Apple TV spot, “1984,” almost didn’t run.
  • George has a strong opinion about the shortcomings of consumer research on advertising. And, by George, he’s right.
  • And the most important lesson he’s ever learned (from David Ogilvy himself) – the importance of selling.

And here’s the the best TV commercial ever, according to George Parker: