Duped: The Dark Side of Online Business

Why We Trust Influencers Over Experts & What It Costs

May 4, 2026·45 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Why are we taking advice from people we've never actually vetted? They feel familiar. They feel trustworthy. And that's exactly the problem!  Inspired by Michelle's TEDx talk, this episode dives into why confident influencers often win over actual experts and what that's costing you. We're breaking down the psychology behind it, and how to stop getting duped. Topics discussed: Why we trust influencers over experts and what's really driving it. How familiarity and parasocial relationships create false credibility. The expertise paradox: why real experts struggle to explain (and sell) what they do. What happens when confidence replaces competence—and who pays for it. How to actually vet who you trust before making big decisions. For detailed show notes and links to everything mentioned in this episode, please visit duped.online. For more Duped, including monthly bonus episodes, join the Patreon.

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