Intro:

Frank Zappa sets a good example for Alpha-male behaviours. There is much to be learned from watching him on interview shows.

Body:

I watch this interview about once a month. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ISil7IHzxc

Frank Zappa on an old interview show, holding frame and only talking about what he wants to talk about. Not once does he get caught up in the tempest of babble coming from the other contestant. Never does he seriously entertain a stupid question or an attempt to change the topic from either of the hosts. He comes out of the whole ordeal as the clear winner.

He uses a host of effective techniques such as one-word answers, flipping the script with questions, agree-and-amplify, and a rock-solid frame of mastery. Half of the time he doesn't even respond with words, he just rolls his eyes and shakes his head.

He's not trying to convert the other contestant, he wins by having a good defense.

Lessons Learned:

  • While you shouldn't approach every interaction like a debate, being confident and uncompromising in your views makes you hold frame.

  • The responses we use for shit-tests can be used in many different situations, not just flirting. Political debate shows, for example.