In this episode of THE POINT OF ATTACHMENT we explore anthropomorphism--when people perceive human qualities in non-human things like products and brands. We review recent research on how this phenomenon affects consumer trust and self-control and we interview a legendary animator who has given many products uncanny human personas.

Why do so many people hate Valentine's Day. In this episode of The Point of Attachment, we explore what it would take to rebrand Cupid's big day.

• Dr. Helen Fisher shares insights on how people perceive expectations about romantic love
• Dr. Lisa Cavanaugh describes research on Valentine's Day marketing and how it often generates the reverse of marketer intentions
• Studio strategy director Marisa Robertson and studio creative director Marcus Bartlett discuss the implications for branding

The conclusion to The Point of Attachment's special two-part episode exploring the notion of what makes a luxury car a luxury car. Host Larry Vincent…

• Reveals findings from the Studio's 2014 Automotive Brand Dependence Index
• Captures testimonials from drivers of the top scoring brand
• Interviews Melody Lee, Director of Brand & Reputation Strategy at Cadillac

Just in time for the 2014 LA Auto Show, The Point of Attachment's special two-part episode explores the notion of what makes a luxury car truly luxurious. Host Larry Vincent asks

• New York Times automobile design columnist Phil Patton
• Virginia Postrel, author of The Power of Glamour
• and Business Insider's Transportation Editor Matt DeBord

if maybe the most successful brands aren't really selling "luxury" at all.

Host Larry Vincent joins forces with Brand Studio Creative Director Marcus Bartlett to break down his enigmatic design mantra: "What is the Thing That Is The Thing?" In the process, they discuss

• Alfred Hitchcock and the MacGuffin with screenwriter John August
• Edward Hopper's iconic painting, Nighthawks
• the meaning of the Starbucks siren
• Walt Disney's theme park design "weenie" and other visual magnets with Thinkwell Group CEO Craig Hanna

UTA Brand Studio's Larry Vincent explains the Brand Dependence Index's findings and asks

• Studio Mimi why she loves Fancy.com
• Russell Belk whether or not our digital stuff is as important as our real-world possessions
• Sam Gosling who we really are when we post online
• Eric Kuhn how to make social media communities matter (hint: be authentic)