In this episode 4 in season 2 of the Persuaders Podcast we talk to Marko Kovic. Marko has a PhD in communication and media studies from the University of Zurich. He is now a researcher, author and podcaster.  Marko co-authored the paper "Digital astroturfing in politics: Definition, typology, and countermeasures", which is the basis of our conversation. In the episode we cover:  - What is digital astroturfing - How common is this phenomenon - How is it performed - by governments, IO's and corporations - What it does to our brains  We also talk about misinformation, fake news and conspiracy theories and what causes them to go viral. And finally we talk about psy-ops & disinformation e.g. in wars like in Ukraine.  All this in just 30 minutes. The episode is sponsored by Ulobby, software for Public Affairs.