Rider or Die
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...
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The Heart of Magic With Dustin Tavella
Discourse in Magic
Join us as we sit down with the incredibly talented , 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....
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The Lead Machine
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...
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The Secrets of a Master Illusionist with Reza Borchardt
Discourse in Magic
Get ready to be amazed by the world of grand illusions with our extraordinary guest, , 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 and 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...
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Marketing vs. Sales
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 or 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...
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Mike Hammer's Vegas Adventure
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...
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3 P's of Magic Sales
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...
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How to Prepare for December
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...
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The Magic Behind Campers Playing Cards
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...
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The Art of Blending Comedy and Magic with Bruce Gold
Discourse in Magic
Magician, comedian, and consultant 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...
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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:
- Authority: Establish credibility with photos, testimonials, and logos from past performances.
- Sales: Convert inquiries into bookings with basic sales techniques and reasonable pricing to build momentum.
- 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.