Dr. Todd interviews The Amazing Bibik, a seasoned (mostly with oregano) magician with over 40 years of experience. They discuss Bibik's journey into magic, the importance of comedy in performances, and the unique magic scene in Chicago. Bibik shares insights on performing in restaurants, the challenges of hypnosis, and the significance of connecting with audiences through names. He emphasizes the importance of taking risks and finding one's voice in the world of magic, making this a valuable discussion for aspiring magicians and fans alike.

Takeaways

The Amazing Bibik has over 40 years of experience in magic.
He blends comedy and magic to create unforgettable performances.
His journey into magic began at a young age, inspired by a school magician.
Performing in bars and restaurants requires a unique approach to engage audiences.
Chicago has a rich history of magic and is known for its vibrant magic scene.
The importance of helping assistants on stage was emphasized by a mentor.
Comedy is essential in magic to keep audiences entertained.
Hypnosis shows require a different skill set compared to traditional magic shows.
Building a personal style in magic is a journey that takes time.
Learning names and connecting with the audience enhances the magic experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Amazing Bibik
02:37 The Early Days of Magic
05:33 The Journey into Professional Magic
08:20 The Chicago Magic Scene
11:35 Performing in Restaurants and Bars
14:30 The Role of Audience Engagement
17:29 Becoming the House Magician at Chicago Magic Lounge
20:27 The Unique Chicago Magic Experience
23:25 Adapting to the Bar Environment
28:10 The Art of Performance and Adaptability
32:32 The Dynamics of Hypnosis Shows
37:29 Comedy in Magic: The Essential Ingredient
41:38 Memorizing Names: The Bibik Method
43:25 The Bar Magic Experience
46:25 The Surprising Simplicity of Magic
49:32 Finding Your Voice in Magic
50:22 Imagining a Life Without Magic
52:36 Advice for Aspiring Magicians
53:16 Favorite Magic Books and Influences
55:30 Final Thoughts and Advice

Holy Smokes! This one is a doozy. Jonah drops bombs of advice for every level of magician!

In this episode of Magician's Workshop, Dr. Todd interviews Jonah Babins, a prominent magician and podcaster, who shares his journey into the world of magic, the evolution of his career, and insights from his experiences. They discuss the importance of community in magic, the challenges of balancing multiple roles, and the structure and benefits of Jonah's coaching program, the Mastermind. Jonah emphasizes the significance of building proof in one's craft and offers valuable advice for aspiring magicians. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication required to succeed in the magic industry,along with the importance of continuous learning and growth.

Full episode in video available on www.youtube.com/@themwpodcast

Jonah's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscourseinMagic

Jonah's Website: https://www.torontomagiccompany.com/

This is an interview for the record books; this guest is an absolute legend. Whether new to magic or a seasoned pro, this interview has insights for everyone at every level.

Dr. Todd speaks with celebrated magician Benjamin Barnes about his journey in the world of magic. They discuss Barnes' early inspirations, the importance of community, and the role of mentorship in his development as a performer. The conversation delves into the creation of the Chicago Magic Lounge, the significance of teamwork in magic, and the evolution of performance styles. Barnes shares insights on handling mistakes on stage, the value of magic books, and offers advice for aspiring magicians. The episode highlights the magic community's rich history and the importance of engaging with audiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Magic and Community
01:16 Guest introduction
03:03 Early Memories and Career Path in Magic
06:12 The Chicago Magic Scene and Early Performances
09:27 Creating Chicago Magic: A Journey of Growth
12:19 The Role of Teamwork in Magic
15:08 Mentorship and Learning from Eugene Berger
18:17 The Chicago Magic Lounge: A New Era
21:30 The Role of an Entertainment Director
24:17 Selecting Performers for the Lounge
27:16 Guest Experience at the Magic Lounge
30:17 Old Techniques in Modern Magic
34:56 The Importance of Books in Magic
36:26 Handling Mistakes on Stage
42:10 Advice for Aspiring Magicians
49:00 Pursuing Your Dreams