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.

As 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.

Jonah highlights three key areas to focus on during this quieter season to set yourself up for long-term success:

Planning 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.

To 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.

This 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

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.

We 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.

We 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.

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.

https://ericleclerc.com/

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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.

We 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. 

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

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. 

Taylor 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.

Mark James

https://www.magiccastle.com/junior-academy/

https://www.taylorhughes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/magicstoryteller/

https://www.facebook.com/themagicstoryteller/

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 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.

Send an email to magic(at)TorontoMagicCompany(dot)com. We can talk about what the mastermind is like and see if I can help you!

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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.

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. 

We 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.

We 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.

Brent Braun

https://www.dustintavella.com/

https://www.facebook.com/DustinTavella/

https://www.instagram.com/dustintavella/

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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.

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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.

This 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.

This 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.

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.

Dustin Tavella

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

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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!

We 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.

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.

This 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.

Bernardo Sedlacek

Instagram :officialhammer

TikTok: @officialmikehammer

Facebook: mikehammershow

X:  officialhammer

Website: https://mikehammershow.com/

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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!

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