Episodes Archives | Discourse in Magic: Recent Episodes
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In this episode, Jonah Babins is joined by rising UK magic star Luke Oseland to explore a journey that spans from toy magic sets and teenage tinkering to Fringe Festival sellouts and cruise ship stints. From co-creating Insane Magic to redefining how young magicians build their brands, Luke shares the behind-the-scenes of developing shows, finding your performance voice, and building a magic career from scratch. You’ll learn how to structure a magic show, when to take creative risks, and why sometimes the best marketing strategy is just putting on a killer show.
How Luke Got Started in MagicLuke’s magic journey began like many—with a gift from his grandparents. But instead of fading interest, his obsession grew. He found early inspiration in televised magic like Penn & Teller: Fool Us and Dynamo, and later deepened his craft through the Young Magicians Club in London, a standout space for aspiring performers under 18. After aging out, he transitioned directly into the Magic Circle and began exploring his path as a creator, consultant, and eventually a performer.
From Creator to PerformerLuke initially leaned into the behind-the-scenes world of magic—creating, consulting, and selling effects—before realizing, at around age 19, that performing could be just as fulfilling. His move to Edinburgh was pivotal: by immersing himself in the city’s vibrant arts scene, he began gigging in clubs and bars, testing material at stand-up nights, and ultimately launching full productions at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Building Magic Shows that WorkLuke breaks down the process of creating shows like Drunk Magic, The Magic Hangover, and the crowd-favorite Insane Magic (with Cameron Gibson and Elliot Bibby). His philosophy is simple: start with great magic and let the narrative emerge naturally. While some magicians obsess over crafting a poetic through-line, Luke suggests focusing on structure, pacing, and audience experience—advice rooted in trial, error, and over 80 shows per month during the Fringe.
Writing with a Team and Making It WorkCollaborating on a show with two other magicians might sound like a nightmare, but Luke offers insights on how Insane Magic became a creative success. With clear roles, shared strengths (and occasional arguments), the team managed to build one of the most entertaining magic experiences on the Fringe circuit. From using Google Docs to obsessively fine-tuning one joke for 40 minutes, the process is messy—but worth it.
Magic Clubs Done RightUnlike many North American magic clubs (which Luke and Jonah agree are often outdated), Luke shares how the Edinburgh Magic Circle is building a model for what community magic clubs should look like: young, vibrant, collaborative, and egoless. With guest lecturers like Michael Ammar and a casual pub-based meetup format, the club plays a crucial role in fostering a healthier, more progressive magic community.
Fringe Economics and the Business of PerformingLuke pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed at the Edinburgh Fringe—from how much money you can make (or lose) to what types of performers benefit most. Whether you’re refining material, building a brand, or chasing cruise contracts, Luke makes a compelling case for why Fringe festivals—when approached strategically—are still one of the best opportunities in magic.
Why Magicians Need to Be More OriginalLuke shares strong views on creativity in magic, including his frustration with magicians lifting material from Instagram clips or assuming every trick should be for sale. While he’s realistic about commercial magic’s role, he calls for more originality, especially among pros, and offers a passionate defense of creating magic that truly belongs to you.
Endless ChainAt the end of the episode, Luke recommends magician and consultant Harry De Cruz as a future guest. Known for his work with Dynamo and his role in revitalizing the Young Magicians Club, Harry brings a modern voice to the evolving magic landscape.
Mentions Luke Oselan’s Instagram (@lukeosey) * Insane Magic* with Elliot Bibby and Cameron Gibson * The Edinburgh Magic Circle * The Magic Hangover (new 2025 Fringe show)
The post The Business of Fringe Magic with Luke Oseland appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
In this week’s episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins returns with a behind-the-scenes look at the Mexico Mastermind Summit, his latest adventures in AI, and what’s next for the magic community. After a brief hiatus, Jonah shares the lessons, breakthroughs, and future plans that are shaping his approach to magic and business in 2024.
The Summit Experience: Magic, Community, and GrowthJonah kicks things off by recapping the recent Mastermind Summit in Cancun, where 40 magicians gathered for a week of learning, jamming, and business breakthroughs. Unlike traditional conventions, this summit focused on real-world magic—sharing “bangers” (the best tricks magicians actually perform), everyday carry routines, and even a spontaneous show where names were drawn from a sombrero.
But the real value, Jonah explains, came from the community: magicians supporting each other, sharing feedback, and pushing each other to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Jonah emphasizes that surrounding yourself with a group of like-minded performers is the fastest way to grow.
Three Big Lessons from the SummitJonah distills his experience into three key takeaways:
- AI is Essential for Magicians
The most popular session at the summit was all about using AI to supercharge your magic business. Jonah created custom GPTs to help magicians write viral posts and craft messages for clients—tools that attendees could use and implement on the spot. His message: AI isn’t just a trend, it’s a must-have skill for magicians who want to stay ahead. - Magic Itself Needs More Focus
While business skills are crucial, Jonah realized that magic—the craft itself—can’t be neglected. The Mastermind is now doubling down on helping members improve their performances, not just their marketing. From joke writing to effect selection and stage presence, the goal is to help every magician become legendary, not just successful. - Community is Everything
The biggest breakthrough? The power of working together. Whether it’s the Mastermind or your own circle of trusted friends, having a support system accelerates growth and makes the journey more fun. Jonah encourages listeners to find their own “band of magicians” if the Mastermind isn’t the right fit.
Actionable AI Tips for MagiciansJonah shares his top strategies for making AI work for you:
- Use AI Every Day: Set your browser to open ChatGPT or your favorite AI tool by default.
- Better Prompts, Better Results: Use the “Role, Request, Context, Format” method to get more useful responses from AI.
- Teach AI About You: Take advantage of memory, custom instructions, and custom GPTs to personalize your AI’s output.
- Stay Ahead of the Curve: As AI changes how people find and book magicians, building a strong brand and community is more important than ever.
Where to Find Jonah This SummerJonah is hitting the road! If you’re in LA (May 27–30), Chicago (June 8–11), Philly (June 23–26),
Mentions* Follow Jonah on Instagram: @discourseinmagic * Email Jonah: magic@torontomagiccompany.com * Previous episode with David Gerard on the power of a creative circle.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! What’s your biggest takeaway from the summit, or your favorite AI tip? Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media, and let’s keep growing together.
Be sure to subscribe to Discourse in Magic for more insights, tips, and strategies to elevate your magic business.
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In this episode, Jonah Babins is joined by corporate magic legend Bill Herz to unpack a career that spans summer camps, corporate boardrooms, and headline features in The Wall Street Journal. From his early days performing with Paul Cummins to founding Magicorp and representing world-class talent, Bill shares the highs, the hustle, and the hilarious behind-the-scenes of building a career in corporate magic. You’ll learn what makes a magician bookable, how to navigate pricing, and why a magician’s greatest asset might be understanding the client better than they understand themselves.How Bill Got Started in Magic
Like many magicians, Bill’s journey began with a magic set at eight years old. But what set him apart was a unique blend of showmanship, business sense, and a willingness to perform for anyone, anywhere—from birthday parties to summer camps and community centers.
The Creation of MagicorpWhat started with teaching a CEO one simple trick became a revolutionary corporate entertainment concept. Bill realized the power of using magic as a tool in business communication, eventually founding Magicorp to help executives shine and manage bookings for the best in the industry.
What Makes a Magician Corporate-ReadyBill breaks down what he looks for in the performers he books—hint: it’s more than a good show. From being able to describe what makes you different in one sentence, to being professional, personable, and ego-free, he outlines the traits that help magicians thrive in the corporate world.
Understanding Your Value and PricingPricing is more than picking a number—it’s about asking the right questions and understanding what the client needs. Bill shares how he approaches pricing based on value, logistics, and market perception, and why being flexible (but smart) is essential to getting booked and respected.
Social Media, Managers, and Magician MistakesBill doesn’t hold back when talking about magicians on social media and their obsession with “busy bragging.” He also dives into why having a manager or being repped by a big agency can sometimes hurt more than help—and how magicians can avoid sabotaging their own careers.
Endless ChainAt the end of the episode, Bill recommends magician Derek Hughes as a future guest. A brilliant performer and a friend of Bill’s, Derek brings a unique blend of comedy and magic that works exceptionally well in the corporate space.
Mentions* Bill Herz’s Website * Magicorp – Corporate Magic Booking Agency * David Copperfield * Mac King * Ben Seidman * Colin Cloud
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In this episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins sits down with magician, circus performer, and entertainer Leah Orleans to discuss her unique journey in magic, her experiences blending circus arts with illusion, and how she pushes the boundaries of traditional performance. Leah shares insights into how she found her place in the magic world, her approach to creating engaging and original performances, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Finding Magic in the CircusLeah’s entry into the world of magic was anything but conventional. She started as a circus performer, mastering aerial arts, juggling, and acrobatics before discovering how magic could enhance her performances. Her background in physical theater and movement helped her develop a distinctive performance style that captivates audiences in a way few traditional magicians can.
Standing Out in a Male-Dominated IndustryAs a female performer in both circus and magic, Leah has navigated challenges and misconceptions while forging her own path. She discusses the importance of representation, the struggles of being underestimated, and how she has turned those obstacles into strengths. By bringing a fresh perspective and a multidisciplinary approach to her craft, she continues to inspire others to think outside the box.
Creating Unique and Immersive ExperiencesLeah shares her process for designing routines that seamlessly blend magic with circus arts. From crafting new illusions to reimagining classic tricks, she explains how movement and storytelling play a crucial role in her work. She also dives into the creative risks she takes to ensure each performance is not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging for her audiences.
Advice for Performers and MagiciansFor those looking to break into the world of performance, Leah offers practical advice on developing a distinct style, building confidence on stage, and continuously refining one’s craft. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance, experimentation, and finding one’s unique voice in an industry that often leans toward tradition.
Endless ChainApril Jennifer Choi
Where to Find Leah OrleansTo learn more about Leah Orleans, her performances, and upcoming projects, follow her on social media and check out her website:
- Website: Leah Orleans’ Website
- Instagram: @LeahOrleans
- Facebook: Leah Orleans Magic & Circus
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This week on Discourse in Magic, we’re bringing you a special repost of Jonah Babins’ appearance on the Penguin Magic Podcast, hosted by Erik Tait. Jonah, the long-time host of Discourse in Magic, takes the guest seat and shares insights on the world of magic, business, and podcasting.
How Jonah Built Discourse in Magic Jonah shares the journey of how Discourse in Magic has grown over the years. He discusses the evolution of the show, the challenges of maintaining a podcast in the magic space, and what has kept him going for nearly a decade. Jonah explains his strategy for selecting guests, emphasizing the importance of personal interest. He shares how being genuinely curious about a guest’s work leads to more engaging and meaningful conversations.
The Evolution of His Magic Career Jonah reflects on how his interests have changed over time. While Discourse in Magic initially focused on deep philosophical discussions, his passion has shifted toward the practical aspects of magic, especially business growth and performance. Jonah shares insights into his Mastermind program, where he helps magicians grow their businesses. He talks about the structure of the program, its benefits, and the transformative results that many of his students have experienced.
The Three Key Pillars of a Successful Magic BusinessJonah breaks down the fundamental elements necessary to build a thriving magic business. He details how generating leads, improving sales techniques, and optimizing business systems can help magicians increase their income and efficiency. Jonah emphasizes the power of having a supportive network. He explains how magicians in his Mastermind program benefit from shared knowledge, accountability, and expert guidance to help them achieve their business goals.
Mentions* Jonah’s Magic Business Coaching * Discourse in Magic Instagram * Vote for Jonah in the FM Magic Podcast Awards
Enjoy the episode and don’t forget to subscribe for more deep dives into the art and business of magic!
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In this solo episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins dives into the world of public shows, sharing his insights on why every magician should consider doing them. He also provides a sneak peek into his upcoming shows across North America and highlights a special event happening at the end of April.
Why Do Public Shows?1. Promo Material: Public shows are an excellent opportunity to get high-quality promotional material. By hiring a photographer or videographer, you can capture footage of your performance that can be used to market yourself and book more gigs in the future. 2. Friends and Family: Public shows provide a chance for your friends and family to see you perform. They are your biggest supporters, and this is a great way for them to experience your magic without the high cost of private or corporate events. 3. Client Engagement: Offering free tickets to past and potential clients is a fantastic way to maintain relationships and generate new business. It gives you a reason to reach out and offer something valuable, which can lead to future bookings.
Upcoming ShowsJonah shares his tour dates and locations for the next two months:
– March 6th: Boston, performing at the Boston Magic Lab.
– March 7th-9th: Connecticut, performing and lecturing at Mcon.
– March 18th-20th: Austin, Texas, performing a show with Michael Rogerson.
– March 25th-28th: Montreal, performing a show with John Elli.
– April 8th-11th: St. Louis, performing a show with Josh Weidener.
– April 28th-May 2nd: L Summit in Mexico, a special event for Mastermind members.
MentionsBoston Magic Lab
Michael Rogerson
John Elli
Josh Weidener
Toronto Magic Company
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In this episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins sits down with Jonathan Levit to discuss his multifaceted career in the entertainment industry, from acting and hosting to creating innovative magic tricks and apps. Jonathan shares his journey, insights, and the magic behind his successful projects, including his Vegas show and The Stranger app.
Early Magic JourneyJonathan discusses how he discovered magic through his father’s props and the magical community in St. Louis that shaped his early years. He reflects on the importance of mentorship and friendships in his development as a magician.
Acting and Hosting CareerJonathan talks about his transition to acting and hosting in Los Angeles, sharing the challenges and rewards of working in front of the camera. He emphasizes the skills he gained from acting and hosting that have enhanced his magic performances.
Consulting on FilmsJonathan recounts his experience consulting on films like “The Incredible Burt Wonderstone,” working with actors like Steve Carell and Jim Carrey. He shares memorable moments from the set and the unique challenges of bringing magic to the big screen.
Vegas Show Jonathan provides insights into his current show at the Venetian in Las Vegas, describing its intimate and theatrical format. He discusses the journey of getting the show to Vegas and the dynamics of running a successful production in a competitive environment.
The Stranger AppJonathan explains the creation and functionality of The Stranger app, a powerful magic trick that combines technology and community. He highlights the app’s impact on his performances and the global community of magicians it has fostered.
Nexus ProjectJonathan introduces his latest project, Nexus, which serves as a digital hub for creating innovative magic routines. He details the features of Nexus and how it allows magicians to integrate various inputs and outputs seamlessly into their performances.
Endless Chain Jonathan recommends Christopher Hart as a future guest for the podcast, noting his expertise and contributions to the world of magic.
Mentions* Jonathan Levit’s Website * Jonathan Levit Instagram * Twisting the Aces * The Stranger App
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Welcome to another insightful episode of Discourse in Magic with your host, Jonah Babins! This week, Jonah shares his journey and lessons learned from running Google ads in his magic business. Unlike tactical episodes, this one dives deep into the mental game and personal experiences that paved the way for success.
Perseverance and MindsetJonah’s initial attempts with Google ads led to small gigs and disappointment, making him nearly give up on the idea. However, he emphasizes the importance of persistence and learning from failures. Understanding that hard things may not work the first time is crucial for growth.
Learning and CommitmentAfter a five-year hiatus, Jonah revisited ad campaigns with a dedicated effort to learn and improve. He spent significant time understanding the basics of running ads, leading to better results. The significance of investing time in learning cannot be understated.
Hiring ExpertsJonah’s decision to hire professionals transformed his ad campaigns and led to significant business growth. He highlights the value of expert knowledge and continuous improvement. Collaborating with experts allowed Jonah to scale and optimize his ad campaigns effectively.
Scaling and GrowthTaking successful ad campaigns to the next level involved hiring the right people. Jonah discusses the impact of mentorship and expert guidance in achieving business growth. He emphasizes the importance of investing in education and professional support to unlock new levels of success.
Stay Connected:
- Website: Discourse in Magic
- Instagram: @discourseinmagic
- Facebook: Discourse in Magic
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In this episode, Jonah sits down with Rachel Wax to discuss her journey from fashion to full-time magic, performing at Speakeasy Magick, and her creative process for developing new routines.
Getting Into MagicRachel’s introduction to magic came from her father, a surgeon with a passion for tricks. At 15, she learned a self-working card trick, sparking a lifelong fascination. Despite initially pursuing fashion design at FIT in New York, Rachel found herself drawn into the city’s magic scene, demoing magic kits at FAO Schwarz and Toys ‘R’ Us. This led her to The Magnets, a group of magicians who jammed and performed together, helping her refine her craft.
The New York Magic SceneRachel shares insights into what makes the New York magic scene unique, from its competitive nature to the high expectations of its audiences. She highlights how performing in such a dynamic city pushes magicians to be better and why close-up magic is having a moment right now.
Speakeasy Magic and Performing in Immersive EnvironmentsAs a regular performer at Speakeasy Magick Rachel describes the challenges and rewards of working in an immersive, up-close environment. She explains how the show is structured, what makes it special, and how it has shaped her as a performer.
Creative Process and Mind MappingRachel breaks down her approach to creating new magic, including how she uses mind mapping to develop tricks that align with her character. She also walks through her process for refining routines, incorporating audience feedback, and continuously evolving her material.
Being a Woman in MagicRachel candidly discusses her experiences as a woman in the magic industry, from dealing with audience perceptions to navigating sexism at conventions. She shares how she turns low expectations into an advantage and the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive magic community.
The Business of Magic in New YorkJonah and Rachel discuss the business side of magic, including how private gigs and ticketed shows shape a magician’s career in New York. Rachel also touches on why having multiple great magic shows in a city helps grow the industry rather than creating competition.
Mentions Speakeasy Magic * Vanishing Inc. (Mind Mapping* project) * Rachel Wax’s Website * Instagram
Endless ChainRachel recommends checking out:
- Eli Bosnick
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In this episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins sits down with magician, science communicator, and viral illusion creator Matt Pritchard. Matt’s unique approach blends his background in physics with a passion for magic, leading to mesmerizing optical illusions and science-based performances that captivate audiences worldwide.
How Matt Got Into MagicMatt shares his journey into magic, starting with escapology as a teenager before evolving into a love for illusions. He discusses how his studies in physics and early performances in bars and student events led to a deeper appreciation for the overlap between magic and science.
The Intersection of Magic and ScienceJonah and Matt explore the shared sense of wonder in both disciplines. Matt explains how science and magic both challenge our understanding of reality—one by uncovering truths and the other by deliberately concealing them. He also touches on his work in science communication, where he teaches students using illusions to explain scientific concepts.
The Rise of Matt’s Viral IllusionsDuring the pandemic, Matt started sharing his optical illusions online, quickly gaining traction. He details how his illusions evolved through audience feedback and meticulous experimentation. One of his standout viral creations—an elephant disappearing from a moving train track—attracted major attention from magicians and illusionists worldwide.
Creativity and Problem-Solving in IllusionsMatt offers insight into his creative process, from finding inspiration in old magic books and science experiments to refining illusions through trial and error. He discusses the fusion of stage and close-up magic techniques in his work, making them especially deceptive—even to seasoned magicians.
The Business of Science MagicMatt talks about transitioning from working in a science museum to performing independently in schools and festivals. He shares how word-of-mouth, smart branding (switching from “Lab Monkey Productions” to “Science Magic Shows”), and strategic partnerships helped grow his business.
The Ethics of Magic and Social MediaJonah and Matt debate the challenges of posting illusions online, particularly dealing with exposure and explanations in comment sections. Matt embraces engagement, often encouraging audiences to theorize about his illusions while maintaining a sense of mystery.
Final Thoughts and RecommendationsMatt reflects on his favorite aspects of modern magic, emphasizing performances that focus on human connection and wonder. He also shares his least favorite trend: exposure videos that diminish the mystery and artistry of magic.
Endless ChainMatt suggests two fascinating guests for future episodes:
- Ian Kendall – A highly skilled street performer from Edinburgh.
- Gaia Rossi – A talented stage magician and psychologist, offering insights into the psychology behind magic.
Mentions Instagram & Twitter: @sciencemagician * Website: Science Magic Shows * Derren Brown’s Show – Derren Brown * Twist Museum, London – Twist Museum * Robert Harbin’s Work – Robert Harbin on Magicpedia * Lawrence Hass’ Paper Ball Act* – Lawrence Hass
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In this week’s episode of Discourse in Magic, Jonah Babins kicks off the new year with an insightful discussion about the January slump—a reality for many magicians—and how to turn it into an opportunity for growth. With the rush of holiday gigs behind us, Jonah explains how January offers a unique chance to focus on improving your magic business.
The January Slump: A Common ChallengeAs Jonah points out, January can feel like a shock after the busiest month of the year. December brings a whirlwind of gigs, inquiries, and emails, but when the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, everything seems to come to a halt. Jonah reassures listeners that this is entirely normal—not just for you, but for magicians everywhere. In fact, it’s the slowest month of the year for most performers, as evidenced by the revenue data he tracks for his mastermind group of magicians.
Rather than feeling discouraged, Jonah invites you to see this slow season as a gift. Instead of scrambling to keep up with gigs and inquiries, you now have the time to work on your business rather than in your business.
Three Big Projects to Tackle in JanuaryJonah highlights three key areas to focus on during this quieter season to set yourself up for long-term success:
- Revamp Your Website January is the perfect time to improve your website. Whether it’s upgrading the design, adding a booking form, or updating images, this is the time to make changes. With less traffic coming in, you don’t have to worry about downtime, giving you the freedom to experiment and improve.
- Create a New Promo Video If you captured video footage from your holiday gigs, now is the time to turn it into a standout promo video. Jonah emphasizes the importance of crafting a video that showcases your best moments—whether it’s a trick with fire, a big audience reaction, or a beautifully staged performance. With January’s slower pace, you can give this project the time and attention it deserves.
- Set Up or Upgrade Your CRM If you’ve started booking gigs regularly, it might be time to implement a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system to organize your client data. Jonah shares his thoughts on different CRM options and explains why this is a task best tackled during a slower season, rather than in the chaos of the holiday rush.
The One Thing You Must Do in JanuaryPlanning your entire year is Jonah’s top recommendation for January. He explains how having a roadmap for your goals, projects, and marketing efforts can keep you on track throughout the year. Without a plan, it’s easy for big projects—like setting up Google ads or improving your SEO—to fall by the wayside.
Jonah also encourages listeners to reflect on the previous year. What types of gigs did you enjoy most? What areas of your business could be improved? This self-assessment will help you prioritize your efforts and make 2025 your best year yet.
Join the “Preloaded Year” WorkshopTo help magicians plan their year, Jonah is hosting a free workshop called The Preloaded Year on January 15th. In just 75 minutes, he’ll guide participants through creating a comprehensive plan for their magic business. Whether it’s marketing, business development, or personal goals, you’ll walk away with a clear strategy for the year ahead.
Can’t make the live session? No problem! Jonah is offering a recording of the workshop for a limited time to those who sign up. Click the link in the episode description to secure your spot.
Final ThoughtsThis episode is packed with actionable advice for magicians looking to make the most of January. By embracing the slower season and focusing on big-picture projects, you can set yourself up for success in 2025.
Links and Resources
- Sign up for the Preloaded Year workshop here.
- Follow Jonah on Instagram: @JonahBabinsmagic
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. What projects are you tackling this January? Share your plans in the comments or on social media, and let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
Be sure to subscribe to Discourse in Magic for more insights, tips, and strategies to elevate your magic business.
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Join us for a unique twist as Eric Leclerc takes over as host to interview the usual host, Jonah Babins, on his own podcast, Discourse in Magic. This engaging conversation uncovers Jonah’s journey into the world of magic and podcasting, revealing how his love for both has enriched his life. Jonah shares his early experiences with magic, sparked by his uncle’s D lights, and reflects on how podcasts have become a source of daily inspiration and learning. Meanwhile, Eric, who is new to podcasting, talks about how this medium has transformed everyday activities like driving and working out into enjoyable experiences. Together, they explore the irresistible allure of magic and the power of podcasts.
As we travel back in time, Jonah takes us through his formative years at the Sorcerer’s Safari Magic Camp in Canada, where he forged lasting friendships and found mentorship under Ben Train. These experiences, from summer camps to visits to magic shops, marked a transition from youthful fascination to a deeper appreciation of the craft. The episode also explores Jonah’s entrepreneurial journey, where he transformed his passion for magic into a successful career. He recounts the pivotal moment that led him to pursue magic professionally and shares the role his family played in supporting his dreams, even when they had their reservations.
Finally, listen in as Jonah shares insights into building a successful business in the magic industry. From mastering marketing strategies and building an online presence to embracing the power of mastermind groups, Jonah emphasizes the importance of community and support. The episode also touches on overcoming ego and the significance of work ethic and motivation in achieving success. Throughout, Jonah reflects on the evolving nature of modern magic, the impact of social media, and the joy of mentoring emerging magicians. With heartwarming stories and practical advice, this episode is a testament to the enduring passion for magic and the transformative power of community and creativity.
Entrepreneurial Journey in Magic IndustryWe take a journey through the early career of a magician who transitioned from working at a day camp to performing magic full-time. It all began with a pivotal moment in 2011 when, despite an initial lack of interest in marketing and business, he realized the potential of pursuing magic as a profession after seeing a poorly received magic show at a camp. With the encouragement and help of his entrepreneurial mother, he contacted 150 camp directors and started booking magic workshops, initially underpricing his services due to inexperience. Over the years, he expanded his network, refined his approach, and grew his summer business to earn significant income. By the time he graduated with a math degree in 2016, he had already established a successful career in magic, choosing to follow his passion rather than a traditional path in mathematics.
Marketing Strategies and Business SuccessWe explore the journey of building an online presence and leveraging it for success in marketing and business. Starting with inspiration from various marketing podcasts, I highlight the power of having a large audience to sell products or services, even without a clear initial idea of what those might be. Through experimenting with affiliate links and merchandise, I learned the value of sharing knowledge and creating content. During the COVID pandemic, I recognized an opportunity to expand into virtual shows and workshops, which led to the development of the Magicians Accountability Group in Quarantine (MAGIQ). This chapter illustrates how perseverance and seizing opportunities can lead to unexpected growth, eventually establishing a coaching and mastermind format that has continued to evolve since its inception during the pandemic.
The Importance of Work Ethic We discuss the intricacies of work ethic and motivation, particularly in the context of pursuing a career in magic. I share personal anecdotes about the expectations set by my parents and the necessity of having a strong work ethic to succeed. We examine the idea that understanding how to work hard is a learned skill, emphasizing the importance of having a compelling ‘why’ behind one’s efforts. The conversation touches on the concept of motivation being driven by either the pursuit of rewards or the avoidance of negative outcomes. We discuss setting goals that are both selfish and selfless, to find a balance that drives success. Additionally, I express confusion over people who desire growth in their careers but do not take actionable steps, highlighting the necessity of effort, such as consistently creating content or trying new strategies.
Mentionshttps://ericleclerc.com/
https://www.instagram.com/magic4yourbrain/
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Renowned magician and captivating storyteller Taylor Hughes joins us for an insightful exploration of his magical journey. We unravel Taylor’s innovative blend of storytelling and illusion, a unique approach shaped by early influences like the Magic Castle Junior Society. Taylor opens up about crafting acts that not only mesmerize but also resonate deeply with audiences, highlighting the impact of social media and digital platforms like Amazon on broadening his reach and redefining success in modern magic.
We discuss the art of evolution in performance, drawing parallels between the worlds of magic and comedy. Taylor shares how his career took a transformative turn, fueled by a pivotal conversation with his wife that encouraged the integration of personal stories into his acts. This shift not only revitalized his performances but also deepened audience connections, demonstrating the power of authenticity and personal expression in creating memorable experiences. The conversation also touches on the practicalities of rebuilding a career and the necessity of embracing change to avoid creative stagnation.
Taylor also offers valuable insights into the business side of magic, from mastering the art of emceeing to crafting a comedy magic special. He discusses the strategic use of social media and touring techniques to maximize exposure and reach new audiences. With anecdotes about pivotal career moments and the importance of a digital footprint, this episode is a treasure trove of advice for magicians and performers aspiring to expand their horizons in today’s ever-evolving entertainment landscape. Join us for this inspiring dialogue that illuminates the path to success in the art of magic and beyond.
Rebuilding Magic Career Through HustleWe explore the journey of a magician who started his career in the Junior Society, inspired by Diana Zimmerman’s advice to embrace their unique desire to perform and to always accept opportunities. Despite a successful start, a shift to working as a youth pastor led to a temporary pause in performing magic. Returning to magic full-time required starting from scratch, borrowing props, and reaching out to old contacts, driven by the need to support his family.
Evolution of Magic Performance Styles We discuss the philosophy of magic, particularly the tendency of magicians to polish their acts to the point where they lose their original charm. Drawing comparisons to comedians who create, refine, and then release new material, the conversation highlights the importance of evolving one’s act to prevent stagnation and maintain engagement. We discuss how magicians often perform the same routine for decades, which can become stale both for the performer and the audience
Crafting Relatable Stories in Magic We talk about how the key to resonating with people lies in sharing universal themes and experiences, even if they stem from personal and unique stories. Drawing inspiration from the success of shows like “Everybody Loves Raymond,” where personal anecdotes became universally relatable, we highlight the challenge in magic where the focus on skill can create a disconnect.
Touring Strategies for MagiciansTaylor shares insights borrowed from fellow comedians, like Dave Nihill, on how to effectively use Facebook and Instagram ads to target specific areas and the importance of having compelling content, such as videos, to engage potential audiences. The concept of “four walling” is explained, where comedians rent venues independently, similar to how promoters operate. I discuss leveraging corporate gigs to cover travel expenses, allowing for the testing of new markets with additional performances. Key tactics include collaborating with venues that have established mailing lists, growing a personal mailing list tagged by city, and using creative content to entice and inform audiences. The emphasis is on using multiple tools, such as ads, mailing lists, and local connections, to build a fan base and ensure successful shows.
Endless ChainMark James
Mentionshttps://www.learnwithtaylor.com/Code: Jonahhttps://www.magiccastle.com/junior-academy/
https://www.taylorhughes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/magicstoryteller/
https://www.facebook.com/themagicstoryteller/
The post Reimagining Magic Performance with Taylor Hughes appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
In this episode of Discourse in Magic, I explore the art of crafting the perfect artist rider for your magic performances. I break down the essentials of what a rider is and why it is crucial for your event’s success. We’ll go over the key elements you should include, from sound and lighting to stage setup and seating arrangements, ensuring that every detail is covered. I’ll share insights on specifying microphone and lighting requirements, as well as how seating arrangements can make or break a show. Additionally, we’ll discuss recording policies to clarify media usage and explore how hospitality needs can vary depending on the event type. To make sure nothing is forgotten, I’ll offer tips on using a notes app to keep track of these requirements, making your rider comprehensive and effective.
Listen in as we explore how a well-crafted rider can enhance event execution, emphasizing that while it’s an essential tool, it shouldn’t replace thorough planning. I’ll provide advice on engaging directly with the booker to confirm all details and ensure seamless event execution. Plus, you’ll hear a handy tip about maintaining a dynamic document called “Rider or Die” on your phone to update your requirements based on past events. If you’re interested in booking larger gigs and understanding pricing strategies, I’ll also offer my services for further guidance. Tune in to uncover the nuances of creating a standout event experience that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.
Advice on Riders1. What goes in it?
Sound, light, stage, seating, recording, and hospitality.
2. How to make it epic!
Create a doc on your phone called Rider or Die that you keep always adding things to based on the events that you go to.
3. Riders are important but…
It is not a replacement for proper planning to make sure that you knock the event out of the park.
MentionsSend an email to magic(at)TorontoMagicCompany(dot)com. We can talk about what the mastermind is like and see if I can help you!
The post Rider or Die appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Join us as we sit down with the incredibly talented Dustin Tavella, winner of the 2021 season of America’s Got Talent, who shares his inspiring journey from a young magician dressed as a clown to a celebrated performer captivating audiences worldwide. Dustin recounts how his passion for magic began with a simple magic kit and a special trick gifted by his uncle, setting him on a path of discovery and performance. His story takes a fascinating turn as he explores the music industry, producing and writing for significant projects before rediscovering his love for magic through a serendipitous encounter. Dustin’s experiences highlight the importance of storytelling and connection in making magic meaningful, and he generously shares how his creative process is influenced by his wife’s intuition and his involvement in a homeless ministry.
Explore the intersection of music and magic as Dustin reflects on his artistic journey and the challenges of finding a singular style. Despite his success in the music industry, he grappled with the desire for deeper fulfillment, leading him back to the enchanting world of magic. Drawing parallels between these two art forms, Dustin emphasizes the importance of audience engagement over technical perfection, both in music and magic. Through personal anecdotes, he offers valuable insights into balancing skill with the ability to connect and resonate with audiences, a theme that resonates throughout his performances.
Listen in as we explore the power of authenticity and originality in magic, particularly in the high-stakes environment of America’s Got Talent. Dustin discusses the challenges of crafting unique acts and how personal storytelling sets performers apart. We touch on the influence of mentorship and collaboration, highlighting how diverse perspectives from friends and mentors enriched Dustin’s magic. Finally, Dustin shares his experiences performing in Branson, Missouri, a vibrant backdrop for his evolving magic show. Whether discussing the creative freedom found in Branson or the importance of genuine connection, this episode offers an inspiring look at how personal experiences and feedback shape a truly authentic magic performance.
Music, Magic, and Finding Style Dustin takes us through a fascinating journey of transitioning between two artistic realms: music and magic. He reflects on his experiences in the music industry, where he had the chance to work with producers and contribute to significant projects like ESPN and the 100th anniversary of the Rose Bowl. Despite his success, Dustin grappled with the challenge of not finding a singular style due to his diverse interests in various music genres, which, while a hindrance as an artist, proved beneficial from a production perspective. This reflection led him to a crossroads, where he realized that neither end of the music industry’s spectrum were fulfilling. Transitioning into magic, Dustin drew parallels between the two art forms, emphasizing the importance of connecting with audiences.
Authenticity and Originality in MagicWe unpack the unique challenges and opportunities of performing magic on a platform like America’s Got Talent (AGT). We discuss the difficulty of creating new and unique acts in a space where many iconic magicians have already set high standards. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity and personal storytelling as key differentiators in magic, emphasizing that while many can purchase tricks, the real magic lies in who the magician is as a person. We touch on the notion that people can sense authenticity, which becomes crucial for magicians who inherently deal in illusion. By embracing individuality and honesty, performers can resonate more deeply with their audience. This discussion offers valuable insights for current performers, underscoring the significance of being genuine and how that authenticity can become the defining element of a magician’s act.
Authenticity in Gospel MagicWe discuss the intricate balance of performing authentic magic that conveys meaningful messages, particularly within the realm of gospel and inspirational magic. We discuss the challenges that arise when magic feels forced or inauthentic, drawing parallels to scripted and impersonal experiences often felt in churches. Emphasizing the importance of starting with a genuine story, I highlight the need for the message to stand alone, even without the magic trick. The conversation underscores the significance of sharing personal struggles and emotions to connect with audiences, rather than projecting an image of perfection. By revealing our own vulnerabilities and journeys, we aim to resonate more deeply with people, making the magic a supportive element rather than the sole focus.
Endless ChainBrent Braun
Mentionshttps://www.dustintavella.com/
https://www.facebook.com/DustinTavella/
https://www.instagram.com/dustintavella/
The post The Heart of Magic With Dustin Tavella appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Today we’re unpacking the secrets of creating a successful lead machine for your magic business. Many magicians believe generating leads is the key to success, but there’s so much more to it. In this episode, we explore three essential systems that will ensure your business not only flourishes but also thrives year after year. We’ll discuss how to effectively generate new leads through various methods like SEO, Google ads, and social media, tailoring these strategies to find the perfect fit for your unique market.
But that’s not all! Listen in as we discuss the importance of nurturing relationships with past clients, ensuring they remember your outstanding performances and come back for more. We share proven techniques, including quarterly emails, to keep you on their radar. Plus, we cover the often-overlooked potential of almost-clients—the ones who expressed interest but didn’t book. By maintaining contact with these prospects, you’ll keep your pipeline flowing and seize future opportunities. Join us as we share insights and practical tips to build a robust lead machine, keeping your calendar full and your magic business thriving.
Three lead machines you need1. You need a way to get new leads. 2. You need a way to keep in touch with past clients. 3. You need a way to keep in touch with your almost clients.
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Get ready to be amazed by the world of grand illusions with our extraordinary guest, Reza Borchardt, as we explore his magical journey from a passionate young enthusiast to a leading illusionist in Branson, Missouri. Reza takes us behind the curtain, sharing how his early exposure to magic through TV shows and the generous mentorship of magicians like Dave Hamner and Kirby Van Birch fueled his love for the craft. Discover the secrets behind his mind-blowing performances, where large illusions transform into spellbinding stories that captivate audiences, each show bringing something new and exciting through the power of storytelling and audience interaction.
Embark on a fascinating journey through Reza’s rise to success, revealing the innovative ways he turned his dream into a thriving career. From transforming old buses into tour vehicles to navigating the vibrant entertainment scene of Branson, Reza opens up about the challenges and triumphs of establishing a dedicated theater and performing hundreds of shows a year. Learn how the blend of music and magic, inspired by live concerts and collaborations with bands like Switchfoot, enhances his performances, creating a unique and exhilarating experience that continues to draw audiences in.
In the age of technology, Reza offers insights into the evolving landscape of magic, sharing how the digital era poses both challenges and opportunities for magicians. As he reflects on the intricate process of crafting new illusions and managing a talented team, Reza emphasizes the importance of innovation and feedback in keeping his shows fresh and engaging. Whether you’re a budding magician or a seasoned fan, this episode provides a captivating look at the synergy between tradition and modernity in magic, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for those daring enough to explore them.
Growing Success in Magic Show ToursThis chapter takes us through the fascinating journey of a magician who turned his passion into a professional career, highlighting the pivotal moments and strategies that paved his way to success. Starting with a personal story about learning tricks from a master illusionist in a parking lot, we explore the initial struggles and innovative methods employed to fund his dream of touring with a magic show. From transforming an old school bus into a tour vehicle to engaging in unique side hustles like selling candles door-to-door, the determination to achieve his vision is palpable. We also examine the challenges of marketing shows without established notoriety and the gradual growth in audience numbers through word-of-mouth. The chapter concludes with a reflection on the financial and logistical hurdles of running a grand illusion show, revealing the complexities of managing a crew and renting theaters while navigating the risks of potential financial losses.
How to Conquer BransonThis chapter takes us to the heart of Branson, Missouri, where the unique dynamics of establishing a theater are explored. Known for its diverse entertainment offerings, Branson attracts millions of visitors annually, providing a stage for both rising stars and top-tier performers. We uncover the challenges of setting up a successful show in this bustling yet intimate city, highlighting the importance of patience and perseverance. The journey from leasing theater spaces to owning a dedicated 1,000-seat venue is shared, alongside insights into the seasonal ebb and flow of show schedules. The balance between performing hundreds of shows a year and maintaining passion for the craft is examined, with strategies like audience participation playing a key role in keeping performances fresh. We also get a glimpse into the lifestyle of living near the theater, offering a blend of high-paced work with tranquil home life by the lake.
Continuous Improvement in Magic Performance This chapter explores the collaborative and creative process behind crafting a successful magic show. We discuss how a blend of personal innovation, industry collaboration, and feedback from laypeople contributes to the development of compelling magic tricks. I highlight the importance of external perspectives, explaining how industry friends and regular audience members provide invaluable insights that help shape the performance to better connect with viewers. I share anecdotes about specific tricks, like the Oreo and card tricks, emphasizing how initial concepts are transformed into original pieces through experimentation and refinement. By testing these tricks on fellow magicians and gauging their reactions, I gauge the effectiveness and potential of new ideas. This chapter underscores the dynamic and iterative nature of creating magic that captivates and entertains audiences.
Endless ChainDustin Tavella
Mentions
https://www.instagram.com/rezaillusionist/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Reza-Borchardt/
The post The Secrets of a Master Illusionist with Reza appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Transform your magic career by distinguishing between the flashy allure of marketing and the powerhouse of sales. Join me as I unravel the myth that appearing on big shows like Fool Us or America’s Got Talent is the golden ticket to success. Instead, discover how the real breakthroughs lie in mastering sales tactics such as SEO, ads, and strategic cold emailing. This episode promises to equip you with actionable insights to effectively convert interest into bookings and sustain a thriving magic business in the digital age.
Through engaging stories and real-world examples, I share how even magicians with impressive media exposure rely on fundamental sales strategies to keep their calendars full. Reflecting on the evolution of media influence, from the heyday of late-night TV to today’s digital platforms, the discussion reveals why honing your sales skills is crucial for long-term success. Whether you’re an up-and-coming magician or a seasoned performer, this episode offers a fresh perspective on prioritizing the right strategies to ensure consistent growth and recognition in the magic industry.
*Mentions*
https://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent
https://www.cwtv.com/shows/penn-teller-fool-us/
The post Marketing vs. Sales appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Magician and comedian Mike Hammer takes center stage, unveiling the secrets behind his 13-year run on the Las Vegas strip. From his humble beginnings with a simple magic kit in Chicago to captivating audiences in the entertainment capital of the world, Mike’s story is as magical as his performances. With humor and heart, he opens up about the challenges of transitioning from small gigs in restaurants and strip clubs to the bright lights of Vegas, revealing the persistence, networking, and a sprinkle of serendipity that got him there.
Mike’s candid reflections on the art of blending comedy with magic can’t be missed! Crafting a standout act in Vegas requires more than just tricks; it demands a deep understanding of humor, audience engagement, and a strong stage persona. Mike shares his evolution from collaborating with a partner to performing solo, emphasizing the importance of scripting and developing material that resonates with diverse audiences. His advice for aspiring magicians is as enlightening as his performances: stay true to your style, but never stop refining your craft.
Mike provides insights into the unique life of a Vegas performer. He contrasts the stability of a residency with the excitement of touring, highlighting the creative freedoms and logistical headaches that come with each. He offers a glimpse into the magic of performing in one location, where night after night, the show becomes a familiar yet ever-evolving spectacle. Whether you’re an aspiring magician, a fan of comedy, or simply curious about the life of a Las Vegas entertainer, Mike Hammer’s journey is sure to captivate and inspire!
Building a Comedy Show in VegasWe discuss Mike’s early career challenges and successes of a magician breaking into the Las Vegas entertainment sceneMike landed a gig at the Four Queens Hotel and Casino, performing at an unusual time of 3 PM. The challenge of attracting audiences at this time led me to try street magic, a tough endeavor that demanded engaging the public one-on-one. Despite a slow start with small audiences, Mike sustained myself through corporate work and gradually built a larger audience over two years.
Crafting Stand-Up Comedy Material We explore Mike’s unique approach to blending comedy and magic by focusing on writing humor that stands independently of the tricks themselves. Mike shares his journey from relying on the humor inherent in magic tricks to crafting jokes that enhance the magic without depending on it. We discuss the importance of writing and how it transforms a performance, moving away from stock jokes to personalized material that aligns with my comedic character. Mike emphasizes the value of recording live shows to capture spontaneous humor, allowing me to refine and build upon these moments. Through anecdotes, I highlight the necessity of balancing improvisation with prepared material to ensure consistent audience engagement, regardless of their reactions.
The Realities of Performing in VegasThis chapter explores the contrasting experiences of performing in a fixed location versus touring as a magician. I share my reflections on the idea of owning a magic lounge in Toronto and the allure of corporate gigs that offer a good balance between enjoyment and financial reward. The conversation shifts to the joys and challenges of having a residency in Las Vegas, including the benefits of stability and the opportunity to continually refine material. However, it also touches on the logistical headaches like technical issues, ticketing problems, and traffic delays affecting show timings. Despite these challenges, performing in one place allows for creative improvisation and a stable life. There’s also a nostalgic appreciation for touring, where audiences in different cities often provide unique, memorable experiences, highlighting the contrasting excitement of being a special event in a town compared to being one of many entertainment options in Vegas.
Endless ChainBernardo Sedlacek
MentionsInstagram :officialhammer
TikTok: @officialmikehammer
Facebook: mikehammershow
X: officialhammer
Website: https://mikehammershow.com/
The post Mike Hammer’s Vegas Adventure appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Join me in this holiday-themed episode of Discourse in Magic, where I guide you through maximizing your sales as a magician during this bustling season. I break down the three essential pillars that contribute to successful sales: pricing, promotional material, and the sales process. Learn how to strike the perfect balance in your pricing strategy, craft compelling promotional materials with testimonials and visuals, and streamline your sales process from initial inquiry to post-gig follow-ups. By focusing on these key areas, you’ll be set up for a prosperous holiday season and beyond.
In the latter part of the episode, I discuss the importance of continuously updating your sales processes and promotional strategies to stay ahead in the game. I also offer my assistance for those needing further help and share a light-hearted personal anecdote about my adventures on Tinder, while also mentioning my lovely girlfriend. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt thank you for tuning in and a teaser for an exciting interview coming next Thursday. Don’t miss out on these valuable insights that can elevate your magic business!
Maximizing Magic SalesI discuss how to capitalizie on sales during the holiday season as a magician. I discuss the three key P’s that contribute to successful sales:
- Pricing
Find the right balance that fits your market and ensures profitability. - Promotional material Show potential clients testimonials and visuals of people similar to them enjoying your performances.
- Sales processI outline the significance of a smooth sales process from initial inquiry to post-gig follow-ups.
By tweaking these three areas, you can significantly boost your sales and set yourself up for success in the coming years!
Mentions
magic@torontomagiccompany.com
https://www.instagram.com/jonahbabinsmagic/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonah-babins-613568113/
The post 3 P’s of Magic Sales appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your holiday bookings this year! Prepare to transform your magic business with our latest episode of Discourse in Magic, where Jonah Babins, guides you through the essential tactics to capitalize on the peak holiday season. Discover why October and early November are the golden months for gig inquiries, and learn how doubling your marketing efforts can yield incredible results. This isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter to ensure a phenomenal end to 2024.
In this episode, we break down actionable strategies to boost your visibility and secure more gigs during the holiday rush. From ramping up your ad spend to proactive client outreach, you’ll gain insights into maximizing your opportunities when demand is at its highest. Don’t miss out on this crucial window—prepare now and let’s crush those business goals together. For personalized tips, feel free to reach out to me directly through email or social media. Tune in and make the most of this lucrative season!
Maximize your client contacts1. Double your ad spend: Whatever it is that you were spending on ads, double it throughout September, October and November. 2. Contact all of your past clients: Everybody who has ever booked you in the past, send them a message! 3. Double your marketing efforts: If you’re running some sort of ads, double it. If you’re doing some sort of cold email, double it. If you’re DMing people on Instagram, double it. If you’re posting on LinkedIn, double it.
The post How to Prepare for December appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Join us for an exciting episode of Discourse in Magic as we welcome back Ben Train to discuss the launch of our latest project, the Campers Playing Cards. We explore our motivations behind creating this unique deck, our shared love for playing cards, and our desire to contribute something special to the magic community. We also touch on the practical enhancements designed to make these cards versatile for magicians, and the joy of seeing others use and appreciate our creations.
In this episode, we take you through the creative journey behind the card deck’s design. From initial brainstorming sessions to the final camping-themed concept, we share the inspiration and artistic evolution that led to the deck’s unique aesthetic. Listen in as we recount personal stories and inspirations, and walk you through the practical steps of bringing our ideas to life with the help of industry giants like Bicycle.
Finally, we discuss the innovative marking system we’ve developed for these cards, designed to enhance magic performances. We also introduce our free PDF guide and an interactive Zoom session, tailored for both beginners and seasoned magicians. With our Kickstarter campaign well underway, we emphasize the importance of community support to make this project a reality and share our excitement for the upcoming launch. Don’t miss out on this behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Campers Playing Cards!
Card Deck Launch Behind the Scenes We welcome back Ben Train to Discourse in Magic, where we shift our focus from magic performances to the exciting launch of our new project, the Campers Playing Cards. We explore our personal motivations behind creating a deck of cards, touching on our shared love for playing cards and our desire to contribute something tangible to the magic community. We discuss the functional enhancements we’ve included to make these cards more versatile for magicians, as well as the benefits of having custom decks for events, gifts, and personal use. Additionally, we reflect on the joy of seeing others use our creations and the practical aspects of distributing something that truly represents our brand.
Design Inspiration for Card Deck We take us on a journey through the creative process behind designing a unique deck of playing cards. We explore the initial motivation for creating the cards, emphasizing the importance of having a clear purpose and concept. The discussion reveals the inspiration and brainstorming sessions that led to the final camping-themed design. Along the way, we recount how initial ideas, such as using a spray paint can or a dog shaking off water, evolved into the concept of using reflections in water for a naturally symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing back design. The narrative also touches on personal inspirations, like a commissioned artwork of a woman blowing dandelions, before settling on the final concept. Finally, we highlight the practical steps involved in bringing these ideas to life with the help of companies like Bicycle.
Deck of Cards Aesthetic Design Discussion We explore the essential qualities of a perfect deck of cards for magic and cardistry. We discuss the importance of reflective back designs that maintain consistency across the deck, while avoiding symmetrical patterns that reveal reversed cards. Borders, particularly white ones, are a dealbreaker due to their potential to reveal card orientation and fraying issues. The color scheme for card faces should stick closely to traditional black and red for clarity, avoiding confusing variations. We emphasize the need for recognizable and distinguishable royal cards to facilitate easy performance and gameplay. Additionally, the aesthetics of a deck play a crucial role, as the design should resonate personally and fit various contexts, whether matching an outfit or evoking nostalgia. Lastly, we touch on our own approach to creating a deck that meets these criteria, encouraging listeners to check out our Kickstarter for visual details.
Magician’s Guide and Camping Tricks We reveal our offer for a free PDF, “The Magician’s Guide to Camping and Card Tricks,” which is tailored for beginners and laypeople, providing instructions on card tricks, marking systems, and camping games. We discuss the interactive Zoom video session where we will perform, teach, and engage in a Q&A, ensuring a tailored experience based on the attendees. Additionally, we introduce our premium $1,000 package, which includes two bricks of cards, the PDF, Zoom call, uncut sheet, recording of the session, and an exclusive all-expenses-covered cottage trip (excluding flight) with us and special guests, designed for an immersive magic experience with great amenities and magic jams.
Mentionshttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/torontomagiccompany/campers-playing-cards
https://www.instagram.com/train.ben/
The post The Magic Behind Campers Playing Cards appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Magician, comedian, and consultant Bruce Gold joins us for an enthralling chat about his dynamic journey from a childhood fascination with magic to an influential career in Hollywood. Starting with a magic set he received as a kid, Bruce shares his path through the comedy club scene, where he learned invaluable lessons by observing both triumphs and failures. He talks about the gritty reality of being overworked and underpaid in the early stages of a performer’s career, emphasizing how these experiences helped shape his unique style that blends magic and comedy.
Transitioning from the comedy club circuit to the Hollywood entertainment industry posed numerous challenges for Bruce, which he navigated through relentless networking and adaptability. He shares personal anecdotes about the balancing act of performing magic and stand-up, finding an agent, and eventually carving out a niche in the cruise ship entertainment circuit. This part of the conversation sheds light on the perseverance required to make a sustainable living as a performer, and the strategic choices necessary to avoid being typecast in an industry that often discourages showcasing a diverse skill set.
As the discussion progresses, Bruce delves into the evolution of magic performance, the significance of originality, and the art of developing a compelling stage persona. From the choreographed elegance of Doug Henning to the gritty street magic of David Blaine, Bruce offers a fascinating perspective on how magic has transformed over the years. He shares insights from his role as a talent booker for Franz Harary‘s House of Magic in Macau and provides practical advice on maintaining audience engagement and refining acts. Wrapping up, Bruce highlights the success of his coaching clients and encourages aspiring magicians and comedians to reach out for consulting sessions, underscoring the value of continuous improvement and mentorship in the entertainment world.
Transitioning From Comedy Clubs to Hollywood Explore the intricate journey of transitioning from being seen as a magician to establishing a financially sustainable career as an actor and comedian. We discuss the challenges faced when first moving to California, where advice often discourages showcasing magic skills to avoid being typecast. By sharing personal experiences, including keeping magic on the down low, performing at comedy clubs, and gradually securing gigs through diligent networking, we uncover the hurdles and strategies for making a living in the entertainment industry. The narrative covers the balance of performing both magic and standup, landing an agent, hosting pilots and game shows, and ultimately finding a niche in the cruise ship entertainment circuit. This chapter provides insights into the perseverance and adaptability required to thrive as a performer in Hollywood.
Developing Originality and Persona in Magic We discuss the evolution of magic performance, highlighting the shift from the clean, choreographed styles of Doug Henning and David Copperfield to David Blaine’s gritty, urban street magic. We examine the importance of originality in magic, emphasizing how a unique persona like Lucy Darling‘s can make familiar tricks feel fresh. The discussion underscores the role of character in both magic and acting, noting that developing a stage persona is a journey of self-discovery influenced by admired figures. Additionally, I share insights on coaching magicians, identifying common gaps such as reliance on rote performance and encouraging choices that maximize engagement and entertainment. We also touch on exercises to help magicians find their unique style by comparing themselves to other performers.
Maximizing Audience Engagement Through Performance This chapter focuses on the unique perspective of a performance coach, highlighting the crucial role of external observation in enhancing a performer’s act. We explore how creators, deeply immersed in their work, often miss elements visible to an audience, and how having a trusted outsider can reveal these hidden aspects. Techniques for maintaining audience engagement are discussed, including the “IU” storytelling method, which encourages audience participation and connection. Additionally, we address the importance of viewing the audience as individuals rather than a collective group, and the significance of direct eye contact in fostering a stronger connection. Practical advice for performers, especially those transitioning from close-up magic to stage performance, is also provided to help them understand and master stagecraft.
Endless ChainChristopher Hart
Jonathan Levit
Mentionshttps://www.facebook.com/BGoldTV/
https://www.instagram.com/brucegold/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruce-gold-92653a59/
The post The Art of Blending Comedy and Magic with Bruce Gold appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Learn how to diversify your magic career and discover why corporate gigs might not be the golden ticket they’re often made out to be. Join host Jonah Babins as he guides you through the captivating world of alternative markets for magicians in this episode of Discourse in Magic. We’ll dissect the allure of corporate events and uncover the real challenges that come with them, from their seasonal nature to the complexities of rebooking. This is an eye-opener for anyone who believes that corporate shows are the pinnacle of a magician’s career.
But that’s not all—we’ll broaden your horizons by exploring other lucrative avenues. Imagine securing a restaurant residency with nightly performances, or entertaining at weddings where magic makes the evening unforgettable. Theaters offer the chance to perform for large audiences, often with impressive earnings, while colleges provide vibrant and enthusiastic crowds. House parties can lead to multiple bookings, and performing at religious establishments like churches and synagogues opens up yet another realm of possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, this episode will inspire you to think outside the corporate box and find success in diverse markets.
Reasons for Performing at Corporate Events1. Bigger dollars for corporate events 2. They are classy and awesome looking events 3. They feel great
Reasons for Not Performing at Corporate Events1. The gigs are inconsistent 2. They want a new show every time 3. Endless logistics to manage
The post Why Not Corporate? appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Unlock the secrets of trade show magic with Danny Orleans, a master magician whose career spans from children’s theater to corporate stages. You’ll gain actionable insights into how Danny transitioned from performing at kids’ birthday parties to captivating professional audiences at trade shows. Listen as he shares his journey, highlighting key strategies and influential mentors like Eugene Berger and Paul Gertner who helped shape his career.
Discover the often-overlooked opportunities in trade show magic, and learn how Danny navigated this niche market to secure and maintain high-profile bookings. From his initial break with a Canadian printer company to his successful techniques for integrating marketing messages with magic routines, Danny offers invaluable advice for magicians aspiring to thrive in the trade show arena. This episode is packed with tips on using technology for lead capture and the importance of blending seamlessly into the business environment.
Finally, we discuss the evolving landscape of modern magic, including the impact of social media and televised magic shows on the industry. Danny shares his thoughts on the challenges of performing in high-stakes environments like trade shows, where rejection is common and resilience is key. Additionally, you’ll hear about quality resources and communities, like a dedicated Facebook group, that can support your growth in trade show magic. Whether you’re a budding magician or a seasoned performer, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice.
Trade Show MagicDanny Orleans is a versatile magician renowned for his expertise in trade show magic.. Danny discusses the challenges and strategies for making a career in magic, highlighting his early successes and the affordability of education and living costs in the past. We explore his journey from birthday parties to becoming a professional magician, emphasizing the opportunities in trade show magic and providing insights into marketing and pricing for aspiring magicians.
Successful Trade Show Magic Strategies We focus on the unique attributes and strategies of successful trade show magicians. We discuss how integrating seamlessly into the business environment, both in appearance and demeanor, is crucial for attracting corporate clients. The conversation highlights the importance of blending a marketing message with magic routines to captivate and qualify leads without overwhelming the audience.
Secrets of Trade Show MagicWe examine the evolution of magic tricks and the practicality of incorporating them into a magician’s repertoire. We explore the criteria for evaluating a magic trick’s effectiveness, such as its ease of use, portability, and suitability for various performance settings like Instagram or live gigs. Additionally, we discuss the importance of understanding the intended audience and context when purchasing magic tricks.
Endless ChainJan Rose
Leah Orleans
Mentionshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/tradeshowperformers
http://dannyorleansmagic.com/
https://www.instagram.com/dannyorleans/
The post Trade Show Magic with Danny Orleans appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
- What if you could transform your passion for magic into a steady stream of gigs without quitting your day job? On this episode of Discourse in Magic, join me, Jonah Babins, as I reveal the secrets to getting your first paid magic performances. We’ll dissect the three pillars of a successful magician’s business: establishing authority, mastering basic sales techniques, and generating leads. Learn how to create proof of your magical prowess with just a simple webpage or PDF, and understand the critical role of photos, testimonials, and logos in building your credibility.
Tune in to discover creative, actionable strategies to gather the all-important proof of your skills, even if you’ve never performed professionally before. From calling in favors to performing free shows, I’ll guide you through leveraging your network effectively. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to book their first gigs and lay down the foundation for a successful career in magic. Whether you’re an aspiring magician or looking to refine your booking approach, this episode offers invaluable tips and confidence to help you shine.
Three critical components:1. Authority: Establish credibility with photos, testimonials, and logos from past performances. 2. Sales: Convert inquiries into bookings with basic sales techniques and reasonable pricing to build momentum. 3. Leads: Generate opportunities through cold emailing potential venues and using gig sites.
Jonah encourages new magicians to take proactive steps, build a portfolio, and reach out for help if needed, aiming to inspire and assist them in launching their magic careers.
The post How to Start Getting Gigs appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Prepare to be amazed as we sit down with the extraordinary magician, Chris Michael! From his early days inspired by a local librarian magician to captivating audiences at high-profile corporate events, Chris’s journey is nothing short of magical. He shares heartfelt stories about the emotional bonds formed through magic, particularly with his mother, and offers aspiring magicians invaluable advice on securing gigs and captivating audiences with charisma and close-up magic.
Chris reveals the power of storytelling in his craft, emphasizing how compelling, truthful narratives from one’s life can create memorable connections with the audience. By sharing vivid childhood memories and encounters with famous magicians, Chris illustrates how these stories enhance a magician’s persona and engagement. The episode also dives into the business side of magic, exploring strategies for recognizing and capitalizing on the true value of a magician’s craft, building genuine relationships, and growing a strong support team.
Magician’s Journey and Impact on Audience Exploree the journey of Chris Michael, an extraordinary magician whose career has skyrocketed over the past decade. We discuss his humble beginnings, from being inspired by a local librarian magician named Jester Jim to learning tricks from his grandfather and uncle. Chris shares a touching story about how magic helped him bond with his mother, revealing the deeper emotional connections that magic can foster. Additionally, we cover the evolution of his career from local and library shows to high-profile corporate events, offering invaluable insights for aspiring magicians on how to secure gigs and captivate audiences with charisma and close-up magic.
Enhancing Stage Presence and Connection Chris offers practical advice for magicians looking to enhance their stage presence and charisma. We explore the importance of delivery in magic performances, emphasizing the need for clarity and self-awareness. Drawing from personal experience and insights from working with directors like Scott Neary, we highlight the significance of appearing seasoned and composed on stage. Through relatable anecdotes, such as an unexpected Carly Rae Jepsen performance and a challenging live auction at the Embassy of Argentina, we illustrate the value of addressing audience concerns directly and maintaining honesty during unexpected situations. By setting clear expectations and acknowledging any mishaps, magicians can create a more engaging and authentic experience for their audience.
Building Relationships and Growing Teams The importance of building genuine relationships in business, particularly through casual, friendly interactions rather than immediately focusing on transactions. Chris share strategies on how to remember personal details about people, maintain connections, and make others feel valued. We discuss the role of teamwork, emphasizing the need to hire help, even when it seems financially challenging, to grow the business. By creating a seamless blend between professional and personal interactions, I highlight how clients can become friends and how this approach fosters long-term success. Additionally, we touch on the logistical aspects of managing contacts and leveraging a CRM system, facilitated by gis team to ensure efficient follow-up and relationship management.
Creative Fulfillment in Modern Magic Chris’s creative journey as a magician who transitions from feeling cathartic fulfillment in performing a repeated story to seeking new projects. We discuss the distinct experiences between theater and corporate shows and the evolving role of technology in modern magic. There’s a love-hate relationship with technology’s impact on magic tricks, particularly with updates from companies like Apple.
Endless ChainEric Jones
Mentionshttps://chrismikemagic.com/
https://www.instagram.com/chrismikemagic/
The post Captivating Audiences with Chris Michael appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Unlock the secrets to booking your own magic shows and lectures as you follow my whirlwind journey through August! In this episode of Discourse in Magic I’ll take you on a thrilling tour that begins at the Magic Live convention in Las Vegas, sweeps through a performance in LA, includes a business convention in Fiji, and features lectures in both Sydney and Melbourne. Whether you’re just curious about life on the road as a magician or looking to share tricks and drinks with me along the way, there’s something magical here for everyone.
But that’s not all! I’ll also reveal my tried-and-true strategies for booking gigs through the power of cold emails. Learn step-by-step how to connect with lecture clubs and venue owners, showcasing your past experiences and marketing materials to secure successful bookings. If you’re an aspiring magician eager to expand your reach or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of a magic tour, this episode is packed with practical advice and insider tips that are sure to enchant.
Come Hang Out With Me!* I am going to be at the Magic Live convention in Las Vegas In LA, August 4-7, 2024. * Then I’m headed to LA to meet with a mastermind client and to do a show together August 9-11, 2024 * Then I’m going to Fiji for a business conenvention. If you’re Fijian we should hang out! * After Fiji I will be in Hawwaii for a business convention * FInally I will by in Sydney and Melbourne for a lecture in each of those cities.
3 Things to Start Sending Cold Emails* You need proof, something to actually send them. * Send is context of other examples that you’ve done that. * You need who to send the stuff to.
LinksEmail me at Magic(at)TorontoMagicCompany(dot)com if you want to connect!
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Renowned magic consultant Rory Adams joins us to share his incredible journey from a childhood fascination with magic, sparked by his grandfather’s box of tricks, to a decade-long career in magic TV show writing. Discover how his innovative approach of posting daily magic tricks on Instagram led to a consulting gig with Dynamo and paved the way for his remarkable career. Rory offers an insider’s look at the role of a magic consultant, emphasizing his unique focus on writing and the importance of hiring experts for magic-related projects.
In our chat, Rory reveals the creative processes behind some of your favorite TV segments, like James Corden’s “Carpool Karaoke,” and discusses the critical metrics for a consultant’s success. We delve into the nuances of magic consulting, comparing hands-on approaches to more conceptual ones, and the importance of restrictions in fostering creativity—especially within talent shows like America’s Got Talent. Rory also shares valuable insights into the collaborative nature of idea generation in magic and how expectations for viral success shape the creative process.
We explore the impact of social media on the magic world, particularly during the pandemic, with Rory recounting his experiences scripting videos for TikTok influencers. Learn about the strategies magicians can employ to succeed on platforms like TikTok and the ethical considerations in magic, from camera tricks to balancing the art’s mystery with new platforms. Wrapping up, we reflect on the evolution of the One Ahead blog, its focus on delivering high-value content, and Rory’s advice for growing a magic business. Don’t miss this episode filled with practical tips and behind-the-scenes stories from the fascinating world of magic consulting.
Networking and Hard Work in Magic We explore the journey of becoming a TV magic consultant through the lens of personal experience. I reflect on my early use of Instagram to showcase daily magic tricks and how this unique approach, coupled with the right timing, led to unexpected opportunities. We discuss the evolution of social media and its current landscape, noting that today’s aspiring magicians might need different strategies. Key advice includes the importance of hard work and building connections, illustrated by my experiences with networking and leveraging friendships. Notably, the strategic decision to stop posting videos at a critical moment played a pivotal role in securing a job with Dynamo, emphasizing the nuanced tactics that can lead to success in this competitive field.
Building Creative Magic for TVWe discuss the importance of restrictions in fostering creativity, particularly within the context of magic performances on shows like America’s Got Talent. We discuss how having a clear direction or goal can be more beneficial than focusing solely on restrictions. The conversation also touches on the distinction between invention and creativity, emphasizing that most magical acts are adaptations rather than completely original inventions. The challenges faced by magicians on talent shows are highlighted, particularly the influence of producers’ demands. Additionally, we share insights from working in a writer’s room, the significance of themes, and the importance of understanding performers’ goals, such as whether they aim to fool judges or achieve other objectives. The chapter concludes with an example of how expectations for viral success can shape the creative process in subsequent projects.
Debating Magicians and Camera Tricks What is the dichotomy between live and televised magic? We examine the frustrations magicians face when comparing the two mediums. We discuss the perception that big-budget TV tricks are less impressive than close-up magic performed live, emphasizing the value of personal interaction in magic. The conversation also touches on the contentious issue of camera tricks and other exclusive TV methods like staged mic checks, questioning whether such techniques should be deemed unfair. We acknowledge the unique constraints and benefits each medium offers, arguing that different settings allow for different methods, and ultimately, it’s about the overall experience and impact on the audience.
Magic Consulting and Coaching Trends This chapter explores the journey and evolution of the One Ahead website over the past three years, culminating in the recent launch of its latest version. We discuss the focus on delivering high-value content through a streamlined newsletter format, emphasizing quality over quantity. I express my excitement about the website’s newfound identity and stability, while highlighting the increasing popularity of newsletters and podcasting. We touch on modern magic’s diverse landscape, the annoyance of magicians asking pointless questions, and the issue of exposure in the magic community. Finally, we cover ways to stay updated with One Ahead and mention an upcoming magic book available to subscribers.
Endless Chainhttps://www.tomelderfield.com/
Linkshttps://www.oneahead.com/
https://discourseinmagic.com/virtual-offering-strategy/
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Unlock the secrets to producing successful public ticketed magic shows with me, Jonah Babins. This episode pulls back the curtain on the often unseen challenges and rewards of organizing these captivating events. From the intensive workload involved in venue selection, marketing, and ticket sales to the financial realities that can make or break your efforts, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of what it truly takes to bring your magic to the public eye.
We share the three primary hurdles that can make producing magic shows a daunting task, alongside three compelling reasons why the challenge might be worth your while. This isn’t about persuading you to take one path or the other—it’s about giving you the honest, unvarnished truth so you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re an aspiring magician or a seasoned pro, don’t miss this candid exploration of the highs and lows of producing public magic shows.
Reasons for not doing public magic shows1. They are a lot of work! 2. They are not the profitable. 3. It is rarely a booking audience
Reasons for doing public magic shows1. They are really fun! 2. They are a great environment to try new material 3. They are something to offer for free to past clients and your peers
Linkshttps://www.torontomagiccompany.com/ben-and-jonahs-magic-road-trip
https://www.facebook.com/events/d41d8cd9/tricks-in-the-six-with-matt-disero-jonah-babins-and-ben-train
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Discover the remarkable journey of Spanish magician Jandro in this captivating episode of Discourse in Magic. Inspired by the legendary Juan Tamariz, Jandro recounts his serendipitous discovery of a local magician’s academy in Valencia and his evolution into a renowned magician and TV personality. With anecdotes from his 15-year tenure on a Spanish late-night show, where he performed magic and wrote comedy for celebrities like Will Smith and Taylor Swift, this episode offers an enthralling peek behind the curtain into the world of magic and entertainment.
Creativity and Technique in MagicWe explore the importance of joke writing and daily practice in honing one’s craft, whether it’s magic or comedy. Jandro shares experiences from working on a magic TV show, emphasising the need for creativity when resources are limited. He recounts how rigorous practice with card techniques gave way to innovative, intuitive performance styles when working on live TV. We also discuss the concept of using jokes and situational techniques as alternatives to traditional magic methods, highlighting the blend of technical skill and creative thinking in successful magic performances.
Fooling Penn and Teller Jandro shares an amusing anecdote about wanting to perform a “car trick” on Penn and Teller’s Fool Us, playing on language misunderstandings and breaking assumptions. We explore how the use of unexpected elements, such as shooting in a remote landscape with a printed background and utilising a drone instead of a webcam, enhances the performance. Additionally, the concept of integrating deeper messages into tricks is discussed, exemplified by a routine involving the consequences of lying, where each falsehood results in a cat’s “explosion.” The chapter concludes with insights into the strategies used to consistently fool seasoned magicians like Penn and Teller by always thinking ahead and presenting tricks designed specifically for one-time performances on the show.
Magical Masters and Creative InfluencesWe discuss the joy and growth that comes from collaborating with iconic figures like Penn and Teller, and how their innovative ideas elevate each other’s work. The conversation highlights the profound impact of Spanish magicians like Juan Tamariz and his mentors, including Ascanio and Gabi Pareres, on the art of magic. We emphasise the importance of understanding the deep psychological and philosophical aspects behind magical performances, as well as the legacy left by these masters. The discussion also touches on the evolution of magic through the contributions of newer magicians who continue to build on the foundations laid by their predecessors, stressing the necessity of studying the masters to truly appreciate and advance the craft.
Endless chainRuben Vilagrand
Linkshttps://x.com/Jandro
https://www.penguinmagic.com/magician/juan-tamariz
https://www.cwtv.com/shows/penn-teller-fool-us/
The post Jandro’s Magical Evolution appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Unlock the secrets to making your magic performances more natural and convincing. Join Jonah Babins as he reveals his three favorite magic projects that have profoundly influenced his approach to magic and performance. From magic theory to practical techniques, these projects have reshaped his understanding and execution of the craft. Whether you’re a seasoned magician or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips and theoretical gems that will inspire you to rethink and refine your magical chops!
Dani DaOrtiz’s UtopiaWe start with Dani DaOrtiz’s groundbreaking “Utopia” series. Learn the transformative lessons contained in this four-DVD collection, produced by Luís de Matos. Dani’s emphasis on clarity and naturalness has reshaped his approach to close-up card magic, and why replacing suspicious maneuvers with straightforward actions can make your tricks more believable.
Discover how these priceless insights have not only enhanced Jonah’s performances but can also revolutionize your own magic acts. Whether you’re a seasoned magician or just starting out, these DVD’s are packed with practical tips and theoretical gems that will inspire you to rethink and refine your magical craft.
Asi Win’s RepertoireThis volume presents an extensive collection of Asi Wind’s repertoire that stretches over the last two decades. Asi’s style of performance has led him to devise magic that seems as fair as it gets and magic almost happens by itself. These routines that have been kept under wraps for many years are laid out here for the first time in great detail.
Asi also revisits several routines he published in the past and brings them up to date with added details and features that he developed over the years while performing them.
Magic Rainbow by Juan TamarizThe Magic Rainbow is the fruit of more than forty years of thought, study and analysis by Juan Tamariz, considered a genius of magic the world over. In 1988, Tamariz published The Magic Way, which became an immediate classic. In it he revealed a brilliant system for making the secret methods of magic effects impossible to detect. In The Magic Rainbow, Tamariz takes his readers and their audiences farther up The Magic Way until they are delivered to the ultimate destination, where logical analysis is abandoned to emotions of amazement, fascination and wonder; where the feeling of magic becomes, for a while, an impossibility firmly rooted in reality.
MentionsDani DaOrtiz’s “Utopia” series
Asi Win’s Repertoire
Magic Rainbow by Juan Tamariz
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Legendary magician Gaetan Bloom joins us to share his journey from a curious child to becoming an iconic figure in the world of magic. Throughout our conversation, Gaetan opens up about the pivotal mentors who shaped his path and how these relationships inspired his most famous tricks. He discusses his innovative approach to magic, which involves transforming everyday objects through curiosity and problem-solving. Whether you’re an aspiring magician or simply enchanted by the art of illusion, Gaetan’s insights are sure to captivate and inspire.Magical Beginnings and Creative InsightsExplore the fascinating journey of Gaetan Bloom, an incredible magician and creator. We discuss how he got started in magic, inspired by a magician he saw at a hotel show as a child. Gaetan shares his early experiences, including his first magic kit and his discovery of the legendary Mayette magic shop in Paris. He recounts his unwavering passion for magic despite his parents’ conventional careers and the influence of a well-known lawyer whose passion for magic helped Gaetan’s parents support his magical aspirations.
Influential Mentors and Creative InsightWe discuss how Gaetan proactively became known in magic clubs as a teenager and formed significant relationships with influential figures like Ken Brooke and Dai Vernon. These mentors played crucial roles in advancing his career. Notable highlights include his interactions with prominent magicians and the development of his famous standing card trick. We also touch on the impactful guidance from mentors such as Jean Merlin, James Hodges, and Finn Jon, each contributing uniquely to his growth and success in the world of magic.
The Magic of Object PresentationWe learn about the fascinating interplay between magic and objects, with a focus on the creativity involved in incorporating unusual props like boxing gloves. We discuss the inspiration behind using such unconventional items, tracing back to a comedic performance by the French entertainer Coluche, who played the violin with boxing gloves. We consider the approach to scripting and rehearsing, emphasizing the organic development of dialogue and presentation in magic routines.
Simplicity in Magical Inventions We explore the balance between originality and tradition in magic. I share my passion for fooling magicians by reinventing standard effects with new methods, emphasizing the importance of personal creativity over instant solutions available online. We touch upon the early inspiration from the Tarbell Course in Magic, where Gaetan challenged himself to develop unique methods for existing tricks.
Endless ChainCharlie Frye
Linkshttps://www.penguinmagic.com/magician/gaetan-bloom
https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/magician/Gaetan-Bloom/
https://www.mymagic.com/creator/gaetan-bloom
The post Reimagining Magic with Gaetan Bloom appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
What if charging $250 per show is the very thing holding you back from building a $100,000 magic business? This episode of Discourse in Magic, hosted by Jonah Babins, dives into the powerful strategy of reverse engineering your way to a six-figure income in the magic industry.
Do the math!Drawing from his unique background in pure math and his experience running a successful magic mastermind, Jonah breaks down the essential numbers and strategies you need to elevate your magic career. Whether you’re curious about the ideal number of bookings or questioning the feasibility of your current rates, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will transform your business approach.
Learn from the bestJoin Jonah as he shares enlightening conversations with fellow magicians during strategy sessions and mastermind meetings. Discover why sticking to rates like $250 or $400 per show could be the very obstacle in your path to financial success. From understanding your market positioning to identifying the right niche, Jonah provides practical math and strategic advice to help you hit — and surpass — the $100k mark. If you’re serious about refining your business strategy and making your magic career flourish, this episode is a must-listen!
Mentionshttps://discourseinmagic.com/mastermind-invitation/
The post The Math Of $100k appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jeki Yoo joins host Jonah Babins to discuss his magic journey, experiences in competitions, and his unique approach to crafting magic for television and social media. They explore the magic scene in South Korea and delve into Jeki’s process of creating engaging pop-up magic videos, which can take weeks to perfect. Jeki shares his organizational methods, his passion for magic, and how he monetizes his craft through events and product sales. The conversation also touches on the broader magic community, the effects of accessibility,
Behind the Scenes of CreativityJeki’s dedication to his craft is truly admirable. We talked about his process for brainstorming and tracking ideas, and how he uses tools like Notion to keep his magical concepts organized. It’s a peek into the mind of a magician who’s always pushing the boundaries.
The Business of MagicLet’s not forget, magic is not just about the applause; it’s also a livelihood. Jeki opened up about how he balances his passion with the practical aspects of running a magic business, from performing at events to selling his own magic products.
“Oh My” – More Than Just a CatchphraseWe even touched on the origin of Jackie’s iconic catchphrase “oh my” and his thoughts on the current state of the magic world. It’s a mix of excitement for the accessibility of magic today and a call for preserving the discipline and mystery that makes magic so special.
Endless ChainXavier Mortimer
Calen Morelli
Matt Pitchford
MentionsThe International Brotherhood of Magicians
Jeff McBride’s Card Manipulation Course
Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/jekiyoo
https://www.jekiyoo.com/
The post Jeki Yoo: The Art of Pop-Up Magic appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
In this episode of the “Discourse in Magic” podcast, host Jonah Babins discusses the ten-hour rule for running a magic business. He advises magicians to limit administrative work to ten hours a week to focus on performance and creativity.
Three ways to stop wasting time:
- Ineffective tasks should be stopped
- Effective tasks should be optimized or scaled with technology.
- Successful tasks may require hiring help. Assess your business activities and optimize or delegate tasks.
Discourse in Magic Mastermind
Send a message to magic@torontomagiccompany.com with the word SCALE and Jonah will send you the deets and see if it’s a fit to work together!
The post The Ten Hour Rule appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
In this episode of “Discourse in Magic,” host Jonah Babins interviews Franz Harary, a renowned magician and illusion designer. Franz shares his magical journey, starting with a childhood magic set that sparked his interest in fooling adults and led to his passion for creating original illusions.
A journey into magic and illusion designFranz recounts his early experiments with cardboard and duct tape, his inspiration from Doug Henning, and his innovative approach to making a car appear, which he later sold to famous magicians. He recalls a pivotal moment when, at 16, he ingeniously used perspective to make a car appear out of thin air—a method he later sold to renowned magicians like David Copperfield and Criss Angel.
Working with Michael Jackson and other artistsFranz also discusses his time working with Michael Jackson on the Victory Tour and his subsequent career as an illusion designer for various pop stars and Broadway shows. This leap of faith catapulted him into the limelight, and he quickly became known as the young kid who designs illusions for the stars.
Understanding one’s identity as an artistFranz emphasizes the importance of understanding who you are as a magician, the message you convey, and the need to push the boundaries of magic alongside technological advancements. For Franz, his message has been about equality and empowerment, showing audiences that they too can achieve the seemingly impossible.
Pushing the art form forwardFranz encourages magicians to take risks, be unique, and continually innovate. He shares a piece of advice from Michael Jackson that has become his mantra: “Whatever you do, do it differently and better than anybody else.” This is what transforms a craftsman into an artist.
——-
Franz’s only ask is that you follow him on his Facebook page – here it is:
https://www.facebook.com/franzhararyfanpage/
Mentionshttps://ronsaylor.com/
https://www.facebook.com/saylormagic/
The post Franz Harary: Redefining Illusion Design and Magic for the Modern Era appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
In this episode of “Discourse in Magic,” host Jonah Babins shares the exciting news about the podcast’s return. Listeners can look forward to fresh interviews and episodes covering a wide range of topics within the magic community.
Jonah’s “Fool Us”Jonah discusses his recent experiences, including his appearances on the television show “Fool Us.” He also encourages fellow magicians to seize the opportunity and apply to be on the show.
Free Training Resource for MagiciansA new free training resource is introduced by Jonah, designed to help magicians increase their business success. This tool is aimed at magicians looking to elevate their professional endeavors.
How to get more Reviews, Referrals, and Rebookings: https://discourseinmagic.com/double-your-referrals-reviews-and-rebookings/
Growth of a Secret Magic ConventionJonah recounts the expansion of a secret magic convention, sharing insights into its development and what it offers to the magic community.
Consulting Work with Asi WindThe episode delves into Jonah’s consulting work with Asi Wind, providing a glimpse into his role and contributions to the magic scene.
Lectures and PerformancesJonah talks about his extensive travels for lectures and performances. He shares his experiences and the knowledge he has gained from engaging with magicians around the world.
Mastermind Group InvitationIf you’re already at 25k per month or more in your magic business and want to scale to 6 figures and far beyond I might be able to help. Send me a message to magic@torontomagiccompany.com with the word MASTERMIND and I can walk you through what it looks like to work together and see if I can help!
THANKS for returning back, it’s been a pleasure to be back in your earlobes. Looking forward to more fun together.
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Jonah returns from the wild to let you know that tomorrow, November 9 2023, he and Ben Train will be appearing for the second time on Penn & Teller’s Fool Us!
In this special magic appetizer, Jonah offers up the three biggest lessons he learned on his second appearance of Fool Us and why you should apply to appear on this show or any other.
Lesson 1: Getting Back On The ShowJonah and Ben’s second appearance on Fool Us is a very different story than the first time last year. This time they had much less time to prepare and the trick they were rehearsing was originally designed for a different show altogether. Jonah shares what he and Ben had to do to apply to Fool Us, listen to the feedback from the producers, and modify what they were pitching so they’d be accepted back.
Lesson 2: The Week OfJonah and Ben made a huge mistake the week of their second appearance on Fool Us. That huge mistake was attending the Magic Live convention. It’s an amazing convention but with Fool Us on their minds neither Jonah or Ben could really enjoy the convention and with the distraction of Magic Live they weren’t able to properly prepare for their appearance on Fool Us. If he had to do it again Jonah would have made sure to keep his head clear in the week leading up to Fool Us and he offers his insight on what you should do in the final days before appearing on any show
Lesson 3: The Day OfYou might recall that last year when Jonah and Ben first appeared on Fool Us they had a stressful rehearsal where the ribbon they used around the watermelon broke. Back then the producers were calm and collected, offered some advice, and the two of them were able to successfully perform in front of Penn & Teller.
This year they thought their rehearsal went really well but this time the producers approached them with a concern that the photographs they were using, which were integral to the entire trick, were using a colour that the cameras weren’t able to capture.
With only three hours until taping, Jonah and Ben had to scramble to create new pictures, get them printed, and all the other secret arts and crafts that had to be done to make the trick work.
So what should you do when everything starts to go wrong just before the cameras are rolling? Jonah shares his insight on those final moments on the day of their shoot.
This Friday!If you want to find out if Jonah and Ben successfully fooled Penn & Teller you can watch their appearance on tomorrow’s broadcast on The CW!
Jonah will be back to recording more interviews and lessons for you in the coming months but until then if you’re thinking of applying to appear on a show like Fool Us, you should!
The post Three Things I Learned During My Second Appearance On Fool Us appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah is joined by Juan Esteban Varela, a master at performing without props. Juan is the mind behind Magic in the Dark and in this conversation he talks all about it, about magic without props, and shares his personal story through magic and how wonderful it is.
The post Magic Without Props with Juan Esteban Varela appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah makes a case for counting tricks. Love them or hate them Jonah is convinced that they should be a staple trick in your roster and lays out his reasons why
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Jonah is joined by Dustin Dean, an incredible mentalist who you may have seen on your TikTok feed debunking psychics
The post Social Media Magic with Dustin Dean appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Three ways that you can grow your business to making more than 3k a month in the next six months
The post Magic Appetizer: 3 Ways to Make 3k appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Three things that you may want to think about when you are creating magic, making routines, and putting stuff out in the world.
The post Magic Appetizer: Three Notes on Creativity appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
David Gerard on how to face the harsh reality of criticism, examining what it feels like to be fooled, and how to grow your magic business
The post Magic, Mindfulness, and Marketing with David Gerard appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Today Jonah talks about how to sell tickets to your public magic show
The post Magic Appetizer: How To Sell Out Your Show appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah is joined by FISM winner Markobi where they talk all about what it takes to win a competition, what it’s like to work with a team, and what it’s like to work alone.
Free Videos and Social MediaMarkobi learned his first magic tricks from those very same free youtube channels that magicians in the industry today can’t stand. From those videos he started following the names that kept showing up in the comments and began connecting with more and more people doing anything he could to speak to magicians on social media. From there it was up to him to take the train to Paris and start meeting these magicians in person. Markobi speaks candidly with Jonah about how important those early days of networking and connection were to figuring out what kind of magician he wanted to become.
The Road To FISMIn this conversation Markobi shares with Jonah who his inspirations were for his grand champion win at FISM 2022. He talks about what it’s like to work on a team, and some of the misconceptions you may have about what it means to be on a competition magic team, it’s a lot more alone time than you may think.
Most magicians are quick to point out that Markobi’s FISM performance is very funny for magicians and seems particularly tailored to that particular audience and environment. With Jonah, Markobi gets into the considerations he made when scripting his world champion performance and how he tailors his jokes for the audience he has. He also offers up advice on how you should handle your time at a competition you’re competing in.
Finally, Markobi catches us up on how his life has changed post FISM. The work he’s doing now and how winning the grand prize at FISM isn’t the end of the road but just the very beginning for him.
Wrap-UpEndless ChainAlain Simonov
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like?A lot of magicians are keeping to the basics and old techniques despite the rise and lure of modern technology. Even new discoveries are being found by studying old books and continuing old traditions of magic. Even young magicians are not forgetting about the past but looking to it for inspiration, which is very surprising.
The importance of mentalism is very boring. It’s not always bad but everyone wants to do it and there’s a lot more bad mentalism than good mentalism. Too many mentalists are just following trends.
PlugsSince FISM, Markobi’s youtube channel has been reopened at youtube.com/@Markobi1
On Instagram, take note that you add the extra “m” at the end of his name at instagram.com/markobim
If you’re following those two channels you’ll be the first to know when Markobi’s book is ready!
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Jonah invites you to join in on his mastermind course where you can scale up your magic business.
Join The MastermindJonah is re-opening up the doors for the Mastermind this month, and he’s looking for five magicians who want to add 3k to 5k per month to their magic business in the next 90 days.
All of the tips, all of the magician appetizers that you see coming out on this podcast, with practical magic business advice, come right from the Mastermind training. If you want Jonah’s help, not only with this step-by-step information with templates and scripts that you can copy for your magic business, but also for him to hold your hand and guarantee that you’re going to scale and add 3k to 5k a month to your magic business, this might be for you.
Five Things You NeedYou need five things to be a good fit for this.
Number one, you need to already have a show or mingling magic that you are confident in. This is not a magic coaching program, this is a business coaching program for professional magicians.
Number two, you need to already be making at least 25k a year in your magic business. We help people scale from 50k to 200k but you already need to have gotten started. That means you’ve got things like a website, you’ve got a business, you’ve got a couple of the things in place that are ready to help you scale.
Number three, you need to have time for three to five more company or private events every single month. If you don’t have the time, then there’s no way that this would be a fit. So it’s important that you have the time.
Number four, you are friendly and coachable. You will be welcomed into the Mastermind family and it’s very important that you are both of those things.
And number five, you can keep a secret.
Here’s What To DoIf you are all of those things then send a message to magic@torontomagiccompany.com with the word SCALE and Jonah will send you the deets and see if it’s a fit to work together.
Jonah will be back next week with another epic interview coming your way.
The post Mastermind Invitation appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah is joined by Jason Suran who shares his advice on how to build lasting relationships to support your magic business. Jason is a mentalist based in New York and has done a ton of work on TV and company gigs and has even performed for four NBA teams. He gives us tips on how to grow a loyal group of clients and shares stories on what has gone great and what has gone wrong and takes us behind the scenes on what it’s like to perform for Speakeasy Magic.
Stuffing Playbills to Perfecting MentalismJason shares two stories of how he came to find magic, the first is the rehearsed answer he tells all his audiences and the second he shares with you about what really happened. It all comes down to being too broke to afford a seat in the Players Theatre in New York and agreeing to stuff the playbills with surveys at the back of the room night after night so he could see the shows being performed.
Jason attended NYU to study television and film but he shares why he left that behind for the world of magic and mentalism and offers his insights to the ethics of mentalism and how much you should or should not let your audience believe how real the performance is.
These days you can find Jason performing regularly at Speakeasy Magic which has become an invaluable opportunity to perfect magic and mentalism performances in consistent conditions. The McKittrick Hotel is the sort of place where he can expect the same lights, same smoke, same everything every single night for years and it’s given him every conceivable advantage. Keep listening and you’ll hear about some behind the scenes experiences at Speakeasy and other venues he’s performed at as Jason offers up some insight into how different and difficult magicians have it compared to other artforms.
If You Want Press, You Have To Do ShowsFrom appearing on news programs like The Social here in Canada to performing for NBA teams and establishing a long lasting engagement with Speakeasy Magic there’s one connecting thread that binds all those successes together. Jason makes a strong point to the value of staying in touch with every client, going so far as to set up google alerts to anniversaries and other milestone events. Clients overtime become friends and it’s always worth it to shoot of an email every so often to remind them what you’re up to. Almost every major engagement that Jason can remember can be linked back to his “scrappy list” of emails and the energy he spent to build genuine connections.
Wrap-UpEndless ChainEli Bosnick: Talk to him about building communities in magic.
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like?There is a large impulse to make it meaningful, honest, and vulnerable. Thanks to Derek DelGaudio’s show we now have a model for it now for the first time in a hundred years.
There’s a tremendous amount of mentalists who learned the wrong lessons from Derren Brown, who saw what Derren did and missed the point. They think that if they lie they’ll be awesome. The psychology presentations were always aesthetic additions but Derren is an awesome performer despite that. Too many mentalists believe that the audience needs to believe the bullshit.
Take home pointBe open to every opportunity and every person you meet and be honest with yourself about where you want it to take you.
PlugsInstagram is the best way, @jasonsuran
Website: jasonsuran.com
Jason performs at the Mckittrick Hotel’s Speakeasy Magic regularly and has a residency at the SoHo House
The post Building Magical Relationships with Jason Suran appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah offers up the world’s shortest but most effective business tip towards booking a client.
There is a very famous email in the world of marketing, called Dean Jackson’s 9 Word Email, and Jonah breaks down why it works so well and how you can adapt it to the world of magic.
For more help like this be sure to sign up for Jonah’s e-mail at discourseinmagic.com/updates
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Laura London is a legend in the magic community. She’s been on Penn & Teller’s Fool Us and The Next Great Magician. She’s had her own show, Cheat, in the Edinburgh Fringe. She’s an Inner Magic Circle member of the Magic Circle and she shares her incredible story and upbringing into the way of magic and how you can build a show too.
In this discussion Laura opens up about her early diagnoses with ADHD as a child and how that led to her mother’s support in her creative pursuits and an early encounter with magic legend George Kovari. She takes us through her teenage years when she left home and lived rough on the streets performing magic wherever she could and yet overcame the odds to become the youngest member of the Magic Circle on her 18th birthday. From having no degrees or completing any formal education she’s now working as the librarian of the Magic Circle.
She didn’t accomplish all this on her own though and shares the story about how Fay Presto became her mentor and taught her all about how to be an entertainer. She’ll share with you the lessons she’s learned on how to find your grit and get out and just do it as well as offering advice on how to track down and book a residency of your own.
Wrap-UpEndless ChainRichard McDougal & Paul Kieve
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like?We are encouraging more and more people in a positive way, especially young girls. I’m seeing more and more young teenagers coming up to me at conventions and they’re good! We’re in good hands.
I would love to encourage more young people to get into the history of magic.
PlugsFor all the magic that Laura has already released visit lauralondonmagic.co.uk
Learn more about the pioneering work being done at Breathe Magic by visiting breatheahr.org
Check out the Midnights playing cards by Breathe Magic at most online stores, one such listing we found is here at VanishingMagic.com
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Jonah dives into artificial intelligence and how it can potentially help you out with your magic business. In this magician’s appetizer he’ll touch on three ways to use AI in your magic business including how to fix your replies to clients, help drive more traffic to your website, and how maximize the effectiveness of your cold emails.
You can check out ChatGPT right now, for free, and try these tips out for yourself. If you’d like help doing any of this stuff you can always email Jonah at magic@orontomagiccompany.com with the term “AI” in the subject.
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This week Jonah is joined by sideshow and magic legend Todd Robbins. Todd has had an action packed career that has sent him around the the last of the sideshows to creating theatre productions alongside Teller to running what may be the greatest magic show that has ever existed, Speakeasy Magic at the McKittrick Hotel.
In this conversation Todd shares with Jonah how he ended up learning sideshow as a kid to eventually befriending Penn & Teller. He offers up the lessons he’s learned when creating shows for theatre and helps explain the difference between entertainment and art.
Wrap-UpEndless ChainErika Larsen, Blaise Serra, Matt Holtzclaw, & Prakash Puru
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like?The greatest level of technique in the history of magic is going on right now thanks to the internet and the sharing of ideas.
There’s more magic now than there has ever been and yet it’s not making an impact that an old television special would do.
Take home pointCreate something that has content. Create something that the audience hasn’t seen before.
PlugsFind out more about Speakeasy Magic at mckittrickhotel.com
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Jonah connects with Kim Andersen, a comedy magician from Denmark who has created some unforgettable magic products. In this conversation he’ll share with Jonah how he found himself immersed in the Danish magic scene, how he found himself creating content for his own television show, how he goes about challenging himself to keep creating, and why he always carries coins into the shower.
Wrap-UpEndless ChainJan Hellesøe is one of the biggest mentalists in Denmark with heaps of tv shows behind him and works closely with big magicians and theatre as a builder.
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like?Does not like the piracy of magic content. Folks should respect creators more. Creating magic will only continue if people actually get credited and paid for what they do.
That said, Kim really appreciates the internet. It’s been one of the greatest tools to learn magic and network with other magicians.
Take home pointHave fun and play.
PlugsThe best place to reach out to Kim is through instagram: @kimander5en
You can get Silver Edge 1 & 2 at ellusionist.com
You can find his Penguin live lecture over at penguinmagic.com
And you can find his product, Shrapnel, almost any place where magic products are sold!
Finally, you can learn more about Magic Beep by visiting pegani.dk
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This week Jonah connects with magic inventor and creative genius Tobias Dostal. Tobias is creating stuff that is not unlike anything you have ever seen before with tricks like Silhouette, Ping, and Stay Cool. In this conversation Tobias shares with Jonah his background in visual arts, his love of photography, and how he was able to use his unique background and interests to carve a new path for magic for everyone. You’ll learn about how to create, how to get inspiration, and what to do with a studio, with deadlines, and limitations.
Wrap-UpEndless ChainJohn Steiner. An amazing magician who currently lives in Spain. An elegant magician with sleight of hand that is really well thought through. He’s never satisfied with routines and is always searching for the perfect thing.
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like?While attending conventions Tobias is amazed at how many more women are involved in the magic scene.
Tobias thinks people should find their thing and take their thing rather than using styles and creations by other magicians.
Take home pointIt’s great if you look for new magic tricks that aren’t classics. Leave your house without the deck of cards.
PlugsTobias has a gallery at KWADRAT Berlin: http://www.kwadrat-berlin.com/artists/tobias-dostal
You can also learn more about Tobias at https://www.tobiasdostal.com/
And follow Tobias on instagram at @tobias_dostal
And check out his gumroad listing at https://dostalgy.gumroad.com/
The post Never Before Seen Magic with Tobias Dostal appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah is back with all new episodes of Discourse in Magic!
After taking time off after the busy holiday season, Jonah has been busy touring and attending events around the country and beyond. In this episode he’ll catch you up on his lecture and performance tours as well as filling you in on his experiences attending Magifest and Blackpool. Jonah will also offer up tips on how to launch your own performance tour and what you can do to help grow your magic business during the slowest time of the year.
If you’d like to learn more about booking the “Ben & Jonah Mean Business” lecture or would like to join up for one of the remaining seats available in Jonah’s six-figure mastermind course then e-mail Jonah at magic@torontomagiccompany.com, and be sure to include the word “intensive” in the subject if you’re interested in that mastermind course!
The post Magic Appetizer: Touring, Conventions, and Growing Your Business appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
This duo from Germany has been taking the world by storm with their silly and engaging TikTok videos, an hilarious performance on America’s Got Talent, and sold out shows wherever they go
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Jonah and Ben answer all your questions about how they got their appearance on Penn and Teller’s Fool Us, and how you can get yours too
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Jonah & Ben will perform on Pen & Teller's Fool Us this Friday, November 4th 2022!
The post Fool Us, Starring Jonah Babins and Ben Train! appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Mortenn Christiansen is a Danish magician who recently won first place at FISM 2022 for comedy
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Jonah shares with you his secrets on how to get an extra 50 to 250 leads during the busiest time of the year for a magician
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Jonah connects with cardistry legend Franco Pascali
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Tips for you as magicians enter their busiest time of the year
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Jonah connects with magic consultant Blake Vogt. Together they walk through how to be creative, how to work with a team, and Blake shares some incredible stories from his time as a magic consultant.
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Jonah connects with Kevin Li where he offers up tips on how to build your brand, your identity, and your magic from influences outside of the magical realm
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Mark Desouza might be one of the most well connected magicians around with a deep curiosity of the art of magic and an even deeper collection of magic props.
The post Curiosity, Collections, & Community with Mark Desouza appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
The three biggest mistakes that magicians make when they're testing our new material for their shows.
The post Magic Appetizer: How to Test New Material appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah connects with movie writer & director Kate Tsang to talk about her latest movie, Marvelous and the Black Hole
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Benjamin Barnes on the unique Chicago magic scene and what to look for when you want to build your own magic community
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This week Jonah offers up three tips to consider when making your promo video.
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This week Jonah is joined by Jonathan Bayme, CEO of theory11, to talk about his work applying magic minded thinking to his business and the products he creates.
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Jonah returns with all new interviews and discussions coming your way.
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This week Jonah is joined by prolific magician and prop maker, Bizzaro
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This with Jonah connects with Bao Hoang to discuss how he’s grown as an online magician and his success in creating and selling unique collectible card sets.
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Jonah offers up his suggestions for the best software you can use to maximize your team's potential.
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Ben Train pops in to offer some important tips to help you overcome any fear you may have surrounding performing the magic tricks that you've been practicing on.
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Jonah shares with you a sample of his workshop where he helps magicians grow their business and double their earnings
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This week Jonah connects with David Regal to discuss writing magic for television and the innovative ways that David approaches magic.
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Jonah welcomes you to the new year and new plans for Discourse in Magic in 2022
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This week Jonah has a very short message for you going into the final week of the holiday season.
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This week Jonah connects with John Graham who has just released his new book, "Stage by Stage", which is all about transitioning to stage magic.
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This week Jonah reveals to you what the best tool you can use to help grow your magic business. And it's something you already own...
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Jonah shares with you his top three picks for magic theory books that will make the biggest impact on your magic.
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Three tips on how to transform your five figure magic hustle into a six figure magic career
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This week Ben Train fills in for Jonah and offers up some tips on what he is doing to overcome his fear of returning to the stage after so much time away
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Jonah and Ben are back for one more time to talk about the fifth, and final, UnCoventional.fun virtual 8-bit magic convention.
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This week Jonah connects with professor Richard Wiseman to discuss co-authoring his book with David Copperfield, debunking supernatural claims, and the ethical responsibilities that magicians have with their audiences.
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Jonah shares with you three tips to help you get better at booking gigs
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This week Jonah connects with Jeff McBride to talk all about the theatre of magic, the phases that every magician might go through, and his thoughts on the growth of virtual magic shows
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This week Jonah connects with Giancarlo Bernini to talk all about his journey navigating the pandemic so soon after his major breakout in magic on Fool Us
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This week Jonah connects with Tyler Rabbit to talk all about his amazing work with coin magic and his thoughts on the suspension of disbelief and the rise of exposure culture.
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This week Jonah connects with Colin McLeod to talk about his return to his live show at the Mirage in Vegas.
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September, October, November, and December are ridiculously important months for your magic business.
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This week Jonah is thrilled to connect with the legendary Bill Malone.
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This week we share with you an episode from the Between Dreams podcast with Chris Ruggiero, who recently featured Jonah as a guest.
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This week Jonah offers up three tips to help you boost your magic creative output
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This week we share a segment from the Three Questions with Jake Strong Podcast, in which Jonah was recently a guest on.
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This week Jonah sits down with Joe Rindfleisch to talk all about rubber band magic and hoe Joe is at the forefront of developing the language used to teach this style of magic and the classic magic he taps into to influence the new tricks he's developing.
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Ben and Jonah are back to get you excited about taking UnConventional.fun beyond the final frontier... space!
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This week Jonah connects with legendary "underground" magician Howard Hamburg.
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This week Jonah connects with Helder Guimarães, a prolific magician known for bending the expectations of what a magic show is capable of.
The post Creating Impossible Magic Experiences with Helder Guimarães appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Ben and Jonah discuss the winding down of virtual shows, what their first live show post-pandemic was like, and how they're planning for the future of in-person shows.
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This week Jonah shares with you six tools that will make working with your team easier as you expand your magic business.
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Jonah connects with Ekat, to talk about creating content online, the difficulty in marketing magic, and the challenges that come up when trying to ethically review magic products.
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Jonah connects with Cody Clark to talk about his sensory sensitivity shows for autistic audiences, performing with autism, and the obstacles that still remain in the magic community for minority and disabled performers
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This week Jonah connects with John Gaspard and Jim Cunningham, the minds behind Sunday Night Magic and the Eli Marks series of mystery novels
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How the Toronto Magic Company is handling the virtual slowdown, the future of Unconventional.fun, and recommended tools to help run your business
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Jonah connects with Peter Samelson where he offers up three questions we can ask ourselves to make our magic scripts better.
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Jonah connects with Doc Dixon to talk about comedy in magic and the work that goes into getting those laughs
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Three success stories from the Upgrade Academy
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Jonah connects with Chris Cox to discuss his unique brand of mentalism, what it's been like to go from touring every day to virtual shows at home, and why he loves magic but doesn't find magic very interesting
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Ben and Jonah are back with the latest from the Toronto Magic Company. This week they're returning to MagicLand and they want you to return with them.
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Jonah connects with Trigg Watson where they break down how he quit his corporate job to perform in magic full time, how he developed his reputation as the "tech magician", and his advice for you when developing magic for a video camera lens.
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Ben Train returns to join Jonah in another check in with the Toronto Magic Company where they discuss the changing dynamics of the magic industry during the pandemic, the launch of their YouTube programming, and their fears about the future of virtual magic.
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A crossover episode with the Shezam podcast where Jonah and Kayla talk about producing magic podcasts, hosting virtual conventions, and the challenges facing the magic community today.
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Is virtual magic ending? This week Jonah offers up three tips to help you plan for the future when the world pivots back to live in-person events
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Jonah is joined by virtual magician extraordinaire, Harrison Kramer, to discuss all things virtual magic and why it’s here to stay forever.
Harrison started off 2020 like most other professional magicians, with a ton of bookings and a bright future ahead. And when the pandemic hit and everything got cancelled he originally hated doing virtual shows. But not soon after he came to realize that virtual is not a substitute for in-person events but rather something entirely different. It’s exciting, it’s new, it’s lucrative, and it’s here to stay… forever.
From Juggling to Magic Harrison Kramer started juggling when he was eight years old and first got to see magic being performed by his dad when he was ten. For the next decade Harrison describes himself as someone who knew about magic but wasn’t a magician but after college he connected with a magician over craigslist who started setting him up with small kids shows. After that his career in magic has continued to grow.
The Great Cancellation At the start of 2020 Harrison’s calendar was booked with events and, like everyone else, was faced with every gig he had cancelled. His first virtual magic show was for a kid’s birthday party and after that show he remembers telling his wife how much he hated virtual magic and thought it was stupid. But by April and early May he started getting contacted by more and more corporate clients and getting referrals and soon he realized he was earning more money than he was making the year before with in-person events. Realizing the earning potential of virtual magic, and embracing the differences that virtual events represent, Harrison has come around on virtual magic.
It’s Not A Substitute And It’s Here To Stay Some of the great strengths that Harrison has noticed with virtual magic include the proliferation of close-up magic that would never make sense in a live stage show, as well as the ability to be able to practice and rehearse your performance in the exact same space you will be performing in. Harrison doesn’t believe that virtual magic is a substitute for in-person shows but rather it’s something completely unique to in-person events. The shows he hosts on Zoom, and the people who attend those events, can’t be compared to live in-person shows and even as the pandemic ends and the world reopens and live events start back up again Harrison is convinced that the growth seen in the rise of virtual shows will continue forever. Harrison is so convinced in the power of virtual events, and it’s earning potential, that he doesn’t foresee a future where he will ever return to full time live in-person shows.
Wrap-Up Endless Chain Gary Ferrar. He’s a more advanced, smarter version of Harrison and is also doing as much as Harrison is doing virtually.
And Devonte. He’s a talented magician who is good at connecting with people, especially in the virtual space.
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like? What Harrison loves is that anybody can do it. Anybody can get a website and buy a deck of cards and start a youtube channel. If you want to be a magician you can go out and be a magician. There is no barrier to entry.
The thing that Harrison doesn’t like is the trend of social media magic. There’s a certain portion of magic these days that has nothing to do with entertaining people with magic. Harrison is really only interested in getting in front of people and getting them to enjoy themselves. It has to be about the people you’re interacting with or it’s just not interesting.
Take home point I told you so. This is just the very beginning of virtual magic entertainment.
Plugs Visit harrisonkramer.com and check out his instagram @harrisonkramermagic
The post The Future of Virtual Magic with Harrison Kramer appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Ben joins Jonah to talk about their biggest business failures of 2020, how they happened, and what they learned from those experiences.
When 2020 started, like everyone else, Ben and Jonah had big plans. Then everything got cancelled and they had to figure out what the Toronto Magic Company and their careers as magicians would look like. They took a lot of risks and found a lot of success. But these are the stories of their biggest failures from 2020 and we hope you learn something from these lessons.
UnConventional Book Following the success of the first UnConventional.fun, the original plan was to send a book to everyone who attended. It was a good idea in theory and it would have made a wonderful physical keepsake of a memorable weekend but unfortunately for everyone Ben wasn’t used to sending out massive projects in the mail.
Ben admits it was a stupid mistake but by mislabelling the packages they ended up sending hundreds of books through the mail system only to have them either disappear entirely or end up back in Toronto where they started. Additional delays in assembling the content for the book, editing, and designing the layout meant that promises to deliver the books in a timely manner couldn’t be honoured and many hundreds of books were lost or delivered to the wrong address.
Ben and Jonah learned to plan in advance, especially when working with unfamiliar processes and trying something new, like designing a book. Take your time and don’t be too proud to ask for advice and look up the proper procedure especially when dealing with complicated rules like packaging and labelling your international shipments.
Toronto Magic Company Merch Jonah warned Ben that if they decided to sell merchandise to their audience who attended their virtual shows that the end result would be that their apartment, which they both share as roommates, would become filled with unsold merchandise.
Skip ahead to 2021 and their apartment is filled with unsold merchandise. One entire closet is dedicated to their merch. They wear the extra clothing almost every day and drink out of mugs with their logo on it. Their apartment is a shrine to unsold Toronto Magic Company swag.
Ben and Jonah learned to think ahead of the outcomes of their projects and find more efficient ways to provide tokens of appreciation to their audience. Mugs and t-shirts are fun at conventions but how many people who attend a virtual magic show want the name of the production company sent to them on a t-shirt? As it turns out, not that many.
The Halloween Show You might remember that Ben and Jonah hosted their first ever ticketed virtual magic show for halloween. What you might not remember was that the show itself took a lot of changes while it was being developed. The trailer video was made back when they intended the show to be super scary, but as they developed the program it was decided they would be more family friendly and funny and the tone shifted dramatically. People turned on by the scary trailer would visit the family friendly website and be turned off, while at the same time people enticed by the friendly website would see the trailer and decide that the show wasn’t for them either. Conflicting messaging and changing ideologies about the structure of the show lead to a lot of miscommunication in the marketing of the program and while the show itself was a lot of fun and those who attended had a great time, both Ben and Jonah knew that it could and should have been much more successful had they been consistent with their messaging.
Magic Out Loud Following UnConventional.fun, Jonah and Ben decided they wanted to launch their own magic club. But after some feedback they realized that nobody needed more access to lectures and written material so they changed the focus to a club where magicians would be invited to perform in front of the lecturers and get feedback from them directly. On paper it seemed like a great idea but the result was Ben and Jonah begging for money and not getting enough people to sign up to make it a viable project.
The lesson they took from this was to listen to the community you’re serving and try not invent needs that don’t exist. There was no desire for a magic club like this at this time and the only people left disappointed in the end were Ben and Jonah.
Hat Tricks Speaking of trying to make something that nobody asked for…
When Ben and Jonah learned that Netflix was open to pitches for magic shows they tried to put together a project they called Hat Tricks. To this day nobody outside of Ben’s brain knows exactly what this show was about. Was it the Chopped of magic? Was it a send up of shows like Wizard Wars? Was it a convoluted mess with a talking hat that nobody knew what the rules were?
Creativity is great but you also need to know when to be pragmatic and realistic. Having a wacky high concept for a show can work but it also needs to be accessible, and comprehensible to a wide audience and if your own friends don’t know what is going on maybe it’s time to reign yourself in.
And if you decide not to reign yourself in you might be responsible for…
Twizards! No video exists of this grandest of failures. For that we can all be grateful. But if you’ve ever seen Jonan and Ben dressed up as wizards you can know that they own those costumes because of this idea.
The Twizards was going to be a show to teach people about magic, where they could learn tricks and understand the methods. But rather than just create a simple teaching program like everyone else Ben and Jonah decided to shoot for the moon and create a disney-esque TV show about a paid of wizards trapped in a library having to learn tricks to escape their prison while Ben and Jonah watch them on TV and learn the tricks in the real world. Sound confusing? That’s because it was confusing.
Not only did Ben and Jonah have no experience scripting and producing a TV program, they’re also not actors or comedians or scriptwriters. They bit off way more than they could chew and soon found themselves so wrapped up in figuring out how to create special effects on a green screen that they forgot that the whole reason they created this project in the first place was to be a fun and simple way to teach people about magic.
Grand ideas are fun to have but the lessons to be learned here are to ask yourself honestly if anyone is asking for the thing you’re trying to make.
Learning From Failure Over the course of 2020 Ben and Jonah have tried lots of things and from the failures they’ve learned that one of the most important secrets to success is to give yourself the time to succeed. You can’t complete your high concept project if you’re waiting until the last minute to put the finishing details on it. If you’re putting together your thing a week before your show you’re already too late. As well, be creative in the execution and be level-headed in the creation, create with practicality in mind and execute with creativity in mind.
If you’d like to learn more about what the Toronto Magic Company is up to be sure to check out their youtube channel at youtube.com/torontomagiccompany
The post Our Greatest Failures of 2020 with Ben and Jonah appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah is joined by legendary magician and comedian Mac King to talk about his life growing up with magic, blending stand up comedy with magic performance, and moving to Vegas to perform at Harrah’s Hotel.
Starting Young Mac King was first introduced to magic by his grandfathers who each had a love for magic tricks. The first time he ever saw magic performed was from one of his grandfathers and the other grandfather owned a collection of magic books that Mac was allowed to pour over them to learn their secrets.
Once he was 14 he was allowed to join a local magic club and he remembers clearly the first night he attended a club that a crowd had gathered around another young magician to see him perform before the meeting began. That young magician was Lance Burton and he and Mac remained friends ever since.
A Comic’s Approach To Magic Mac King’s act is a blend of stand up comedy and magic, a combination he notices is becoming more rare as time goes on. He got his work touring comedy clubs across the country and got to spend a lot of time in close proximity to other stand-up comedians and saw how they prepared for their shows. Early on he decided he needed to demonstrate to them that he was approaching magic the way a comic approaches comedy. He created his own tricks, and when he couldn’t do that he made sure to create his own presentations. Pretty soon he was tearing up the club scene and winning audiences over.
Genuine Audience Interaction Seeing his live shows shut down for a year has been really difficult for Mac, he loves interacting genuinely with the audience. Dealing with a person on stage, not just as a prop but as a human being and becoming their friend as the show progresses. Adapting to virtual has been especially difficult for him because of the way he interacts with audiences at his live shows, so rather than pivot to virtual magic performances he’s found a new love in the form of producing a talk show on YouTube called Don’t Everybody Leave. Born out of a mix of missing live shows and not allowed to have friends over to play croquet and eat pie late at night in his backyard, he hopes this show scratches that performers itch until we’re all allowed to attend events in person again.
Wrap-Up Endless Chain Jacob Jacks. Nobody has heard of him. He’s a street performer from Vegas. He’s a really good magician, he’s really funny, and he can talk about magic in a pretty smart way.
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like? Mac King likes that there’s been a call around the world for more diversity in every profession and every walk of life and magic might be a little behind that but it’s catching up.
What disappoints Mac is the lack of other stand-up comic magicians, he wishes there were more 17 or 18 year olds expressing an interest in doing what Mac does.
Take home point Do more shows and listen.
Plugs The official site is MacKingShow.com but for the more up to date news be sure to follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @MacKingShow
And be sure to subscribe to his new talk show on YouTube, Don’t Everybody Leave with new episodes every week!
The post Stand-Up Comedy Magic with Mac King appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah was invited onto the Of Sleights and Men podcast to talk about running his various businesses and the balance between his love of magic and his love of entrepreneurship. This episode is just a highlight of his full conversation with podcast hosts Benji and Jacob. Check out the Of Sleights and Men Podcast for the complete interview.
The Toronto Magic Company Jonah opens up about the founding of the Toronto Magic Company and how it fits in with Discourse in Magic and his career as a magician. He pulls back the curtain to give an insight into how the business operates and the challenges he’s had to overcome with running three ongoing businesses at the same time. You’ll get to learn about the origins of the company and Jonah’s inspirations.
The Love Of Entrepreneurship Jonah’s first love has always been magic but he shares with the Of Sleights and Men podcast how that love has changed over the years to prioritize the love of entrepreneurship and operating his own company. Through that love of entrepreneurship Jonah has learned important lessons about input and results and opens up about how much his process has changed as a magician.
The Value Of Magic That said, Jonah still knows that magic is fun and magic is a release for a lot of people. He talks about what it’s like to live in a space where art is valued and the value that magic and performance plays in society. We are serving a need and making people happy and that is real and valuable and important and Jonah is happy to share that journey with people.
The post Of Sleights And Men Podcast appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah is joined by Scot Nery, a juggler, magician, and entertainer who now helps entertainers with their branding, marketing, and more helping to identify their value and the value they bring to their clients.
Escaping The Magic Bug Scot Nery didn’t really stick with magic, not at first. Early on when he first joined a magic club and found a mentor he found that the club he was a part of was not very creative. They would perform tricks exactly as written, right down to the same patter. There was no room for deviation or change and at the time he thought that all magic was, which was repeating stuff that somebody had already seen. It was that reason which attracted him to juggling instead, since every time you see juggling it’s in the moment and the risk involved feels like each performance is something unique.
What brought Scot Nery back into magic was he saw that it created hope, which is something he feels a lot of performers forget about when they’ve been performing for a while. The magical moment that gets everyone hooked to magic in the first place is a feeling of giving people hope. That a human can go beyond what you think is possible for a human to do.
The Boobie Trap Scot is also the mastermind behind the hugely successful Boobie Trap show out of LA. It came from a desire to prove that he could host a show himself and to provide a platform for performers to kill it in front of an audience. Every show was different and was packed full of surprises, you never knew what guest or performances you were going to get each night.
But you would be forgiven for thinking that Scot is not a magician, he lied his way into a marketing job and made his name performing in a one-man parody of a cooking show. But he’s also performed at Magic Castle and has made connections with magicians and entertainers around the world.
Empathize With Your Customer When Boobie Trap was shut down due to the pandemic, Scot found out about Jonah’s consulting work with magicians. The two connected and now Scot offers consulting work of his own helping to identify the value of and empower magicians to grow their brand and their business.
One of the big tips that Scot suggests is that if you’re having a hard time identifying your value that you empathize with your customer. You are likely much more than just a host when you are taking on a job for a client and you can offer them work in staging the show, set design, scripting, and lots of other details that a corporate client might overlook when booking a magician to host their big event. In the end it’s not really about what trick you are able to pull off but what problems you are able to solve and learning what problems you are able to solve can make all the difference in the world to a stressed out HR manager booking their next show.
Wrap-Up Endless Chain Mark Collier. He’s an amazing clumsy card magician that does everything. He’s like Leonard Green fallen apart.
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like? Scot likes taking a format or a genre and exploiting every aspect of it. Now there are no expectations for that a Zoom magic show should even look like Scot is very excited to see what develops from that.
Scot doesn’t like that he’s still hearing people denigrating virtual shows.
Take home point As long as we are trying to survive we are not going to be able to create the great stuff that moves us forward. We’re not going to be able to create the entertainment that changes people’s lives. First we have to thrive, we have to really take care of ourselves, and do awesome stuff for each other, and then we can make some amazing things that people can’t get from Netflix or Instagram.
Plugs Visit Scot’s page at scot.fun and if you visit scot.fun/dim you can pick up something free from Scot right now just for Discourse in Magic listeners.
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On this episode, we are talking about ticketed virtual magic shows. I’m going to give you three reasons why you absolutely should put on your first ever virtual ticketed magic show.
We are talking about your virtual magic show, not the one you do for corporate clients, not the one you do for families, but the one that you sell tickets for. I know you’ve thought about it, some of you may have done it already, and I know many of you have successfully sold out virtual events. Some people are struggling to get people to attend their events without having to bother people one at a time or individually and some of you are doing it but want to figure out how to do it better. I want to walk through three reasons why you should be thinking about putting on a ticketed virtual magic show.
Reason #1: Word Of Mouth The first reason has to do with your peers, your friends, your family, your family’s friends, and your friends’ family all work at companies. And those companies have not been able to gather together in person and even though it may be really difficult for you to get in contact with the HR person at those companies, it’s very easy for you to get in contact with one of the employees who puts in a good word for you.
You reach out to your friend, your peer, and you get them to know about your brand. That way, when something comes up at the company and they’re asked if they have any ideas they can put their hand up and say they know just the person. If you’ve been doing magic for any amount of time, especially if you’re in the first few phases, a lot of your bookings are going to come from word of mouth.
Putting on a ticketed show literally puts you and your magic in front of your friends, your family, your family’s friends, and your friends’ family. Your peers get to see what you do. And then two weeks later at their company event, when they’re doing bingo or something, and it’s really boring and they really don’t like it, they’re going to think back to the ticketed magic show that they went to and they’re going to wish that they had something like this at their company. you will start to see that the friends that you have are going to be recommending you for their company.Your show acts as an audition so that they can see it. They can know that they like you. People are seeing what you’re doing instead of sitting at home and twiddling your thumbs.
Reason #2: An E-Mail List Throughout the course of the pandemic, my email list has been my safe haven. Having thousands of people that know me and like what I do has allowed me to sell new and unique ideas. When we launched virtual magic shows, we sold it to the email list of people that were interested. When we put on a ticketed show, we sold it to the email list. Even when we put on a virtual magic convention, I was grateful to have an email list so that I could tell all the people who already like what I do about all of the cool things that I’m doing.
When you build fans of your brand, if they’re just a fan of yours on Facebook or Instagram, you can’t guarantee that when you post something they’re going to see it. But if they’re on your email list then you can guarantee that you’re going to see it. A ticketed virtual magic show is an epic way right now to get people onto your email list. Not only do they pay money but after the show you can send them bonuses. You can send them epic stuff to their emails. They love it. And they love getting emails from you, which means when the time comes that you want to send an email about an upcoming product and upcoming project it becomes easy to do. You don’t have to go and start posting on social media to collect all those people, instead, you just send an email out to your email list. In the last seven years that I’ve been in any kind of business my email list has been the number one asset in my business.
Reason #3: It Makes Money I did an interview a couple of years ago with an incredible magician and speaker, Brian Miller, and he said something that’s always resonated with me. He said, the reason why restaurant magic is so amazing is because they pay you to market yourself. How awesome is that? They pay you to go around and give out business cards. And I want you to think about your ticketed virtual magic show in the same way. People are paying to come and see your show and at that show you get to promote whatever you want.
Usually you’re either spending your money or spending your time to do lead generating activities. This is a lead generating activity that makes you money.
That’s it for this week, we are still kind of decompressing from Unconventional.fun a few days ago. It was awesome and Ben and I will do a little episode talking a little bit about that, but otherwise I just want to say thank you. Thanks for joining us on this little magician appetizer and I will see you all next Thursday. Peace!
The post Magic Appetizer: Three Reasons For Ticketed Virtual Shows appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Jonah is joined by Ryan Kane, author of “Out of Stock: A Magician’s Guide to Writing Your Own Lines”, where they talk about the importance of writing your own lines when performing your magic and Ryan takes one of Jonah’s own lines and takes it through his process to replace it with something new or something better.
Original Content Ryan Kane has exploded in the last twelve months, not only because he’s been doing a lot of virtual magic, but also because he’s been giving opportunities to a lot of magicians to perform by hosting open mic nights and helping to build up the community by helping magicians to work on their magic. Ryan does the deep work on magic, on writing your own lines, and if you see him perform you know that he’s written every single word.
The Prevalence of Stock Lines Ryan is passionate about challenging the use of stock lines in performances. They’re functional and easy to get used to always using but, as Ryan points out, they can cheapen the entire performance if someone in your audience has heard that line somewhere else. Ryan has developed a system to help break down the use of your stock lines, examine what use they’re actually serving, and work towards creating newer and better lines that not only will be original lines that you’ve created for yourself but might also bring out aspects of your show that have grown stale over time.
Endless Chain David Gerard. He’s a fantastic mentalist magician from the Bay Area and when it comes to a magical thinker he’s among the top.
What do you like about modern magic? What do you not like? I like being able to connect with a lot of magicians that I normally don’t.
I don’t like that this is a boy’s club and we need to get up to the time with and we need to stop making excuses for ourselves and become more inclusive.
Take home point Set a new standard for yourself. Figure out that you’re not going to do this anymore, I’m gonna get rid of stock lines, I’m gonna do more stage time, I’m gonna be better about watching tape… these are easy little things that will make a massive change in your show and in your life.
Plugs The Mostly Magicians Virtual Open Mic is completely free and you can request to join the public Facebook link by visiting facebook.com/groups/mostlymagiciansvirtualopenmic
Out of Stock: A Magician’s Guide to Writing Your Own Lines is available now on Amazon
And you can find out more about Ryan Kane at ryankanemagic.com
The post Throwing Away Your Stock Lines with Ryan Kane appeared first on Discourse in Magic.
Today Jonah tells you about Unconventional.fun 2: Magicland. He’ll explain to you what this is, how it came to be, and then give you six reasons why this may be something that you want to be a part of.
What is Unconventional.fun? Six months ago, Ben Trane and Jonah launched the first ever eight-bit video-game virtual-magic convention. What that meant was that not only did you have all the cool parts of a convention, like lectures and shows and things like that, but the thing that they did was create a virtual world, kind of like an old video game, where you would mingle around the world with arrow keys. When you got close to other attendees, you could jam with each other. You could hang out because you could see each other’s cameras and hear each other’s voice. So it was kind of like a real magic convention but placed in a video game world. If you wanted, you could go to enjoy the lectures and panels and shows but you could also hang out with the cool kids in the back jamming or just connect with some of your favorite magicians and hangout and talk like you would at a real convention. It was awesome. They had 250 magicians but made two big obvious glaring errors that they are not going to make again.
Two Big Mistakes The first big, huge mistake that they made was that they had 13 hours of lectures and shows and panels but they didn’t record a single thing. Which is funny because this is magic 101… record your shows and record your stuff!
The first reason why they didn’t record anything was because they were worried that it was all going to crash completely. It was earlier in the whole zoom world. The second reason why they didn’t record it was because they wanted to make it a live event, a kind of in-person thing, so everyone would be there. But what they didn’t realize was that there’s people all over the world and what’s two o’clock for them in the afternoon was maybe the middle of the night for somebody else. So a lot of people stayed up very late to be a part of the whole entire thing, which was epic but a mistake on their part.
The second mistake that they made was that they built a video game world. Jonah and Ben teamed together with coders and designers to make a world that was whatever they wanted. And with unlimited creativity, with unlimited power, the world that they built was … a convention center. They built a floor of a hotel lobby, and it was awesome, they had a dealer’s room, a main stage, jamming areas, a bar, and a lot of different cool stuff like you would have at a real convention.
But when they decided to do it again, they knew that they had to make something cool. So after the first convention, they sent out a survey asking if people wanted to do it again. And 96% said yes! So they knew they were going to do another one and they knew they were going to have to make some big changes.
Two Big Changes The first big change is that they are recording all of the lectures, panels, and shows so you can watch them afterwards if you can’t make it, or like a convention, if instead of a lecture you’d want to meet up or jam with somebody who’s not lecturing at that time, you can totally do that and watch the lectures afterwards.
The second big change is that they built Magicland. It’s a magic themed amusement park. So instead of a dealer’s room, they have a midway. Instead of having a bar, they’ve got food trucks. So now when you walk around the virtual world, you are in a unique place that doesn’t look just like a hotel convention center, but instead it looks like something magical and impossible that has never existed before.
What To Expect The first Unconventional.fun was a one day eight bit virtual magic convention. And now, Unconventional.fun 2 will be a two day eight bit video game virtual magic convention. And the days that it’s happening are Saturday, February 27th and Sunday, February 28.
Unconventional.fun 2: Magicland is the second ever video game virtual magic convention. Just like the first one, there’s lectures, panels, and shows and also you mingle around with the arrow keys.
When you get close to the other attendees your camera and mic fade into view. So you can jam, you can hang out, and you can spend time together. That means that if you come find Jonah, we can jam and hang out with him. You can also hang out with some of the other magicians that are there. Not only the ones on the lineup.
At Unconventional.fun 2, you can jam with Eric Jones, Suzanne, Caleb Wiles, Asi Wind, Paul Vigil, Moritz Mueller, and so many different magicians that are going to be there.
Six Reasons Why You Should Go Number one: lectures. Ben and Jonah have brought some of the best lecturers together. Not only people who have been crushing in virtual but also just people who absolutely crush it. So not only do they have a John Guastaferro lecture, which is going to be amazing, they’ve got an Eric Jones lecture and Adrian Lacroix lecture. One lecture that Jonah is looking forward to is Asi Wind who will be doing a part lecture, part Q&A called “Fix Your Magic”. You will get to submit your magic problems and Asi will work to fix them and talk about some potential solutions.
Number two: We have an incredible Virtual Magic Panel. Ben and Johan have pulled together a handful of magicians who have been absolutely crushing it in the world of virtual to ask about why, what, and how they’re doing it and figure out how you can do the same thing.
Number three: Performances. The last year and a half of magic has gone through changes that it has never seen before because of the full fledged transition from in-person magic to virtual magic. So you better believe that when they say they’ve got virtual magic shows for you to watch, they have the best virtual magic performers in the world performing. You will get to see exactly what it is that they’ve created over the past year and how you can maybe do the same thing, not by taking their tricks (unless they’re for sale) but to get some inspiration from some really incredible virtual magic performances.
Number four: A custom world. Ben and Jonah built an entire custom world with magic jokes. And with unlimited different bits and pieces that are hilarious. They have food trucks, a midway, games, and performance spaces. Big enough for 500 magicians
Number five: The jamming. This is really the thing that separates this from other conventions in the virtual space is that you really can mingle around and you really can jam with anyone. Ben and Jonah are going to be there. All of the performers on the lineup are going to be hanging out and jamming.
And there’s a really cool feature in this platform where you can search the name of the person that you want to jam with. They’ll come up and then you can go find them. So if you want to jam with Eric Jones, you just search his name, you click on it and it’ll tell you where in the virtual world he is and go and find him. If you want to go jam with Spidey, it’s exactly the same thing, you can search where in the virtual world he is and go find them. If you’ve got a question for Adrian Lacroix or you want to jam with Chris Mayhew or you want to share some tricks with Michael Feldman. Easy! To find them you type their name in a little search bar and then you go find where their little avatar is hanging out.
Number Six: It’s yours forever Every single one of those lectures, performances and panel talks, are being recorded and being given out to you forever. If you just bought this to download the videos afterwards, it would be worth it.
Get Your Tickets Today It’s happening February 27th 7:00 PM to midnight Eastern Standard Time and then February 28th is the full day from 9:00 AM to midnight. If you’re interested in Unconventional.fun, Just click the links here to read a little bit about what it’s all about.
We would love to see you there.
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