Chapter 2: The Smoke-Filled Room

Chapter 2: The Smoke-Filled Room

February 10, 2026 · 52 min · Season 1 · Episode 2

About this episode

This episode explores the concept of Cognitive Warfare and its implications, particularly focusing on how China uses platforms like TikTok to influence cognition.

Traditional PSYOPs try to affect what people think. But, a new kind of warfare – Cognitive Warfare – aims to change how people think. In this chapter, experts like Bill Gertz explain how China is using apps like TikTok to slowly damage users’ cognition and create an environment where truth and fiction become indistinguishable. And Chase Hughes breaks down the psychological experiment that makes in possible. Target Intelligence: PSYOP with Shawn Ryan is an IRONCLAD Original. Go to https://thisisironclad.com/ to learn how IRONCLAD can help elevate your brand Chapters: (01:35) The Reality of Cognitive Warfare (06:44) The Growing Threat of China (08:15) Chase Hughes Explained the Smoke-Filled Room Experiment (13:11) The Danger of TikTok (24:00) Drugs, Cartels, and a “Smokeless War” (32:02) Individualized Social Media PSYOPs (35:02) The Tartaria Conspiracy (44:47) The Warning from Yuri Bezmenov Sponsors: SBIR Advisors: If you’re serious about selling to the military, visit https://www.sbiradvisors.com Mention PSYOP and get your first month free. MAREK HEALTH: Take control of your health today! Head to http://marekhealth.com and use code PSYOP for 10% off at checkout. GHOSTBED Take an…

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