In "Trust Me, I’m Lying," media manipulator Ryan Holiday pulls back the curtain on the dark art of modern journalism and the insidious world of online marketing. He reveals how easily the media can be exploited, turning lies into trending headlines with just a few strategic moves. With sharp wit and shocking anecdotes, Holiday illustrates the fragile line between truth and fabrication in a click-driven society. As he navigates the murky waters of deception, he challenges readers to reconsider what they consume—and who benefits from their trust. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about news, credibility, and the power of influence!
By Ryan Holiday
Published: 2013
"Trust me, I'm lying."
The cult classic that predicted the rise of fake news—revised and updated for the post-Trump, post-Gawker age. Hailed as "astonishing and disturbing" by the Financial Times and "essential reading" by TechCrunch at its original publication, former American Apparel marketing director Ryan Holiday’s first book sounded a prescient alarm about the dangers of fake news. It's all the more relevant today. Trust Me, I’m Lying was the first book to blow the lid off the speed and force at which rumors travel online—and get "traded up" the media ecosystem until they become real headlines and generate real responses in the real world. The culprit? Marketers and professional media manipulators, encouraged by the toxic economics of the news business. Whenever you see a malicious online rumor costs a company millions, politically motivated fake news driving elections, a product or celebrity zooming from total obscurity to viral sensation, or anonymously sourced articles becoming national conversation, someone is behind it. Often someone like Ryan Holiday. As he explains, “I wrote this book to explain how media manipulators work, how to spot their fingerprints, how to fight them, and how (if you must) to emulate their tactics. Why am I giving away these secrets? Because I’m tired of a world where trolls hijack debates, marketers help write the news, opinion masquerades as fact, algorithms drive everything to extremes, and no one is accountable for any of it. I’m pulling back the curtain because it’s time the public understands how things really work. What you choose to do with this information is up to you.”
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
Charlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.
Bridget Phetasy is a multi-talented writer, comedian, and podcaster known for her sharp wit and insightful commentary on contemporary culture and politics. She gained prominence through her work with Playboy, where her essays and columns attracted a wide readership. Bridget is the host of the popular podcast "Walk-Ins Welcome," where she engages in deep, humorous conversations with a variety of guests. Her candid and often provocative takes on societal issues have garnered her a loyal following on social media. Additionally, she created the satirical YouTube series "Dumpster Fire," where she humorously dissects current events.
Kevin Rose is a notable entrepreneur and technology investor, best known for founding Digg, a pioneering social news website that significantly influenced online content sharing. Although not primarily recognized for literary contributions, Rose has impacted digital media and online culture, which are recurring themes in contemporary literature on technology. His insights and experiences have been featured in various tech journals and books, enriching discussions on innovation and digital entrepreneurship. Rose also co-hosted the popular podcast "The Random Show" with Tim Ferriss, where he shares his thoughts on technology, health, and productivity. Through his ventures and public speaking, Rose continues to inspire narratives around the digital revolution and startup culture.
Casey Neistat is a renowned American filmmaker, vlogger, and co-founder of the multimedia company Beme, which was later acquired by CNN. He gained widespread recognition for his innovative and highly influential YouTube vlogs, which have garnered millions of subscribers and views. Neistat's storytelling prowess and creative filming techniques have earned him a Shorty Award for Best YouTube Star and several Streamy Awards. Beyond his digital presence, he has contributed to literature through essays and thought pieces on creativity and the impact of social media. Neistat's work continues to inspire a new generation of content creators and filmmakers.
Ev Williams is an American entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder of Twitter and Medium. Williams has a long history in the tech industry, having co-founded Blogger, one of the first blogging platforms, which was later acquired by Google. His work has significantly shaped online communication, giving people platforms to share their thoughts and ideas globally. Williams’ focus on simplicity and user experience has been a hallmark of his career. He continues to lead Medium, a platform that champions quality content and thoughtful discourse.
Gretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.
Showing 8 of 11 related collections
“Trust me, I'm lying.”
Trust Me, I'm Lying
By Ryan Holiday
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ryan Holiday is a prominent American author, marketer, and media strategist known for his writings on Stoicism and personal development. He gained widespread recognition for his bestselling books, including "The Obstacle Is the Way," "Ego Is the Enemy," and "The Daily Stoic," which have made Stoic philosophy accessible to a modern audience. With a background in media, he has worked with various high-profile clients and is known for his innovative approaches to marketing and brand building. In addition to his writing, Holiday serves as the founder of the creative agency Brass Check, where he helps authors and brands develop their stories. An engaging speaker and thought leader, he continues to inspire individuals to embrace resilience and self-improvement through his insights and teachings.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In “Crush It!”, Gary Vaynerchuk ignites a passion for pursuing your dreams by harnessing the power of social media. He shares his own journey from a struggling wine retailer to a successful entrepreneur, demonstrating that authenticity and hard work can lead to incredible success. With practical advice and invigorating stories, Vaynerchuk inspires readers to turn their passions into profitable businesses. He emphasizes the importance of personal branding in today’s digital age, encouraging everyone to share their voices boldly. Ready to transform your passion into a thriving career? Dive in and discover how to “crush it!” today!
In "Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook," social media guru Gary Vaynerchuk reveals the art of crafting compelling content that resonates with audiences. He emphasizes the importance of delivering value through "jabs"—small doses of engagement—before landing the "right hook" that drives home your sales message. Through captivating examples and real-world case studies, Vaynerchuk illustrates how understanding the nuances of each social platform can amplify your reach. The book challenges traditional marketing tactics, urging businesses to prioritize authenticity and connection. Are you ready to learn the knockout strategies that can transform your social media presence?
In 'Amusing Ourselves to Death', Neil Postman explores the alarming impact of television and entertainment on public discourse and critical thought. He argues that a culture inundated with superficial media is prioritizing distraction over meaningful communication. Postman presents a compelling critique of how entertainment values undermine the seriousness of important issues. Through sharp analysis and wit, he warns against the perils of living in a world where information is merely amusement. This provocative work invites readers to reflect on their own media consumption and its implications for democracy and intellect.
In 'Propaganda,' Edward L. Bernays unveils the art and science behind manipulating public perception. Often dubbed the father of public relations, Bernays shares how he harnessed the power of media to shape opinions and consumer behavior. This groundbreaking work walks readers through historical case studies that reveal the hidden forces driving societal change. With insights that resonate today, Bernays challenges us to consider the ethical implications of influence and persuasion. Prepare to dive into a world where thoughts are crafted and reality is molded - are you ready to see behind the curtain?
Dive into the phenomenon of Facebook through David Kirkpatrick's eye-opening narrative. This engaging exploration unveils how a simple college project transformed into a global communication powerhouse. Discover the fascinating characters behind its creation and the challenges they faced along the way. Kirkpatrick delves into the societal impact of social media, raising questions about privacy, identity, and connection in a digital age. Prepare to be intrigued by the force that changed how we interact forever!
'The Book of Jewish Food' by Claudia Roden is a culinary journey that explores the rich tapestry of Jewish heritage through its diverse and captivating cuisine. With over 800 recipes, Roden unveils traditional dishes passed down through generations, reflecting the unique cultural influences from around the world. Each recipe is accompanied by personal anecdotes, revealing the significance of food in Jewish identity and celebration. This book is not just a collection of recipes; it is a heartfelt homage to the stories and history that shape Jewish life. Dive into the flavors and traditions that define Jewish culture and discover the secrets behind the dishes that bring families together.
In 'The Image,' Daniel J. Boorstin explores the profound impact of images and symbols on modern society, challenging readers to reconsider their perceptions of reality. He asserts that we live in a world dominated by illusions, where images often eclipse the truth. From advertising to news media, Boorstin reveals how these constructed images shape our beliefs and identities. As he delves into the interplay between reality and representation, he poses provocative questions about authenticity in a visually driven culture. This thought-provoking analysis invites readers to unravel the significance of the images that surround us and their influence on our lives.
In 'The Master Switch', Tim Wu explores the cyclical nature of technology and its regulation, revealing how the very innovations that empower society often fall into the hands of monopolies. With captivating historical examples, Wu illustrates the rise and fall of media empires, shedding light on how the internet is poised for a similar fate. He poses thought-provoking questions about the future of communication and control in an increasingly digitized world. As he examines the interplay between innovation and censorship, readers are left to ponder who truly holds the power in our connected age. Will we learn from the past, or are we destined to repeat it?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
