Explore manipulation techniques for personal and professional gain in this BSidesLV 2013 conference talk. Delve into the psychology behind subtle influences, from the diamond industry's marketing tactics to the power of habits and superstitions. Learn about suspension bridges, celebrity influence, and the art of desensitization. Discover how punishment and reward systems, effective pairing, and delayed consequences can shape behavior. Examine the creation of habits, the role of superstitions, and the basics of hypnosis. Gain insights into various manipulation strategies that can be applied in different contexts, from marketing to personal relationships.