What if someone told you they make a living selling New York City's trash?

In this episode, I sit down with Justin, better known as @newyorkcitygarbage on TikTok, to explore one of the internet's most unusual—and surprisingly legitimate—businesses. Justin collects discarded items from the streets and major events across New York City, then transforms them into collectible pieces of history that sell out almost instantly.

We dive into how the idea started, what inspired him to turn garbage into art, the process of finding and preserving these one-of-a-kind items, and why so many people are eager to own a piece of New York City history. We also talk about the psychology behind collectibles, the stories hidden in everyday objects, and how his drops have grown into a thriving business.

Justin shares some of his wildest finds, including collecting trash from major cultural moments like Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce-related events, and explains how he decides what's worth saving—and what's just garbage.

If you've ever wondered how trash can become treasure, this conversation will completely change the way you look at what's left behind.

Why are millions of people spending hours filling virtual grocery carts, building fake food delivery orders, decorating imaginary homes, and shopping for products they'll never buy?

In this episode of FAKD, we explore the rise of "dopamine websites"—digital experiences designed to deliver the satisfaction of everyday tasks without the real-world commitment. We dive into why these trends have gained attention in South Korea, the neuroscience of dopamine, the psychology behind anticipation and habit formation, and how our brains have evolved to crave these tiny rewards.

We also discuss the hidden downsides of simulated experiences, how they can blur the line between productivity and procrastination, and practical ways to break the cycle and seek healthier sources of motivation. If you've ever found yourself endlessly browsing, planning, or organizing online just for the feeling, this episode will change the way you think about your digital habits.

Did "Breakfast Is The Most Important Meal Of The Day" come from science... or marketing? Why do we buy diamond engagement rings? And how did a World War II propaganda campaign convince generations that carrots improve your night vision?

In this episode of FAKD, we dive into the fascinating history of advertising and explore how some of the world's most successful marketing campaigns became accepted as everyday facts. From Edward Bernays and the birth of modern public relations to cigarette ads featuring doctors, De Beers' diamond empire, Listerine's invention of a social fear, and the rise of "low-fat" foods, we uncover the stories behind the slogans that changed culture.

We'll also examine where advertising crossed the line from simply informing consumers to influencing beliefs, how psychology is used to shape purchasing decisions, and why the same tactics are even more powerful in today's world of social media and influencers.

If you've ever wondered whether something you "know" is actually true—or just really good marketing—this episode is for you.

Most EMF blocking products promise protection from invisible radiation—but do they actually work?

In this episode of FAKD, we break down what electromagnetic fields really are, the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, how real EMF shielding works, and why so many stickers, pendants, and "quantum" devices fail basic scientific scrutiny. We also cover the history of EMF fears, the red flags of misleading marketing, and the simple question you should ask before buying any EMF protection product.

If you've ever wondered whether these products are legitimate—or just another billion-dollar wellness trend—this episode is for you.

What happens when Hollywood's newest rising star... doesn't actually exist?

In this episode of FAKD, we dive into the story of Tilly Norwood, the AI-generated actress set to star in a feature film, and explore what her debut means for the future of entertainment. We break down the legal gray areas surrounding AI performers, whether studios have to disclose when a character is artificial, how unions and actors are responding, and why this could fundamentally change the movie industry.

We also examine the rise of virtual influencers, AI-generated celebrities, digital replicas, and synthetic voices, asking one big question: If an AI gives an incredible performance, does it matter that no human was ever behind it?

As the line between real and artificial continues to blur, this conversation isn't just about one AI actress—it's about the future of fame, creativity, and whether we'll even be able to tell the difference.

Is Tilly Norwood the future of Hollywood... or the beginning of something much bigger?

Everyone has seen the words "Based On A True Story." But how much of it actually has to be true?

In this episode of FAKD, we uncover one of Hollywood's most powerful marketing tools. From blockbuster movies and bestselling books to hit TV shows, we explore how creators can stretch, rewrite, and even invent major parts of a story while still calling it "true."

We'll break down some of the biggest offenders, the lawsuits that followed, the legal loopholes that make it possible, and why audiences are so quick to believe the label in the first place.

If you've ever wondered where the line between fact and fiction really is, this episode will make you question every "true story" you've ever watched.

In this episode of FAKD, we're diving into the surprisingly large world of fake guitar players on social media. With millions of views and followers on the line, some creators have built entire audiences by appearing to play instruments they may not actually know how to play, using pre-recorded tracks, editing tricks, and carefully crafted videos.

Joining us is TikTok creator Samee (@sameeguitar), who has made it his mission to expose fake performances and educate viewers on how to spot them. We talk about how this trend exploded online, why so many people get fooled, whether it's harmless entertainment or outright deception, and the biggest red flags to look for when watching a "live" performance.

In a world where algorithms often reward appearance over talent, this episode asks a simple question: Does authenticity in music still matter?

What if the FBI didn't break into a criminal network… but convinced the criminals to invite the FBI inside?

In one of the most unbelievable law enforcement operations in history, the FBI secretly built an encrypted phone company called ANOM and sold it directly to organized crime groups around the world. Drug cartels, mafia members, money launderers, and hitmen all trusted the devices—completely unaware that every message they sent was being copied to federal agents.

This is the story of Operation Trojan Shield, the three-year undercover operation that led to more than 800 arrests, millions in seized assets, and the dismantling of criminal networks across the globe.

In this episode of FAKD, we break down the strange world of social media psychics, viral predictions, and the psychology behind why people believe them. From TikTok fortune tellers to a bizarre claim that aliens could abduct soccer players during a World Cup match, we look at how psychics operate, why vague predictions spread so fast, and how failed prophecies quietly disappear.

We also explore cold reading, confirmation bias, survivorship bias, and the attention economy that rewards the wildest claims online. Are these predictions supernatural insight, lucky guesses, or just really good marketing?

Sometimes the real mystery isn’t the prediction.

It’s why people keep believing it.

DOGUE founder Oli joins FAKD to discuss the DOGUE vs. Vogue trademark dispute and the legal battle that has captured attention across the fashion and publishing industries.

We dive into the origins of DOGUE Magazine, the rise of luxury dog fashion, trademark law, brand protection, entrepreneurship, and what it's like building an independent media brand while facing scrutiny from a globally recognized name.

If you're interested in fashion, business, intellectual property, branding, or high-profile legal disputes, this episode offers a fascinating look inside one of the most talked-about trademark cases in modern publishing.

Topics include:

• DOGUE Magazine's origin story

• The DOGUE vs. Vogue dispute

• Trademark and intellectual property law

• Building a niche media brand

• Luxury dog fashion and culture

• The future of DOGUE

DOGUE's Legal Fund on GoFundMe https://www.gofundme.com/f/stand-with-dogue-protect-independent-publishing

DOGUE website: thedoguemagazine.com

DOGUE Instagram: @thedoguemagazine

Coverdogs website: cover-dogs.com

Coverdogs Instagram: @coverdogs

#DOGUE #Vogue #TrademarkLaw #FashionIndustry #FashionPodcast #IntellectualProperty #Entrepreneurship #MediaBusiness #LuxuryDogs #FAKDPodcast