In a recent video, digital marketer Dewei Zhang demonstrated a controversial yet effective technique for generating leads using hyper-realistic AI interview ads. The tutorial, titled "How to Brainwash Leads with Hyper-Realistic AI Interview Ads (Live Buildout)," walks viewers through creating synthetic interview-style advertisements that appear authentic, leveraging AI-generated personas and scripts.
Zhang explains that these ads mimic real conversations, using deepfake-like avatars and natural language processing to engage potential customers. The goal is to build trust and curiosity, ultimately driving them to opt into a pay-per-lead funnel. The method, which Zhang claims can be implemented with existing media buying skills, has sparked debate over ethical boundaries in advertising.
"I help you build a sustainable Pay Per Lead Business using media buying & outreach skills you already have," Zhang states in the video description.
The video, posted on April 18, 2026, has garnered 39 views and includes a Telegram group for marketers to network. Critics argue that the term "brainwash" in the title reflects a manipulative approach, while supporters see it as a cutting-edge marketing strategy. As AI tools become more accessible, the line between authentic and synthetic advertising continues to blur.