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TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3817 Posts 
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Mindpro, sometimes looking at the big picture as a whole can be very intimating and confusing. That feeling of being overwhelmed by the sheer scale of a project is something many people experience. It's like standing at the foot of a massive mountain range – the peaks seem impossibly distant, and the climb feels insurmountable. That's when the expression "can't see the forest for the trees" really rings true. You're so focused on the overwhelming number of individual tasks (the trees) that you lose sight of the overall goal (the forest).
Breaking down a large, intimidating project into smaller, more manageable and understandable steps is a powerful strategy for several reasons. Think of it like eating a large pizza. Trying to eat the whole thing at once would be overwhelming and probably unpleasant. But slicing it into manageable pieces makes it much easier and more enjoyable to consume. The same principle applies to complex projects. By breaking down the seemingly impossible into a series of achievable steps, you not only make the task less intimidating but also significantly increase your chances of success. And you may be right that magic may not be right for Ed, but until he decides that on his own, I'm all for supporting him in any way I can. But it's not just Ed, I bet you there are others reading this thinking the same way he is and saying that's an awful big hill to climb. A new adventure can be a scary thing. Mindpro, I know you are a smart man when it comes to magic marketing, so if you had to suggest a list for Ed to tackle the marketing, what would be on that list? Keep in mind, Ed is a simple-minded person like me and starting part time. Assume he has a good show to offer, what’s on the list? Tom
"You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want." --Zig Ziglar
Blogspot: https://boleware.blogspot.com/ The Daycare Magician Book https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ |
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ed rhodes Inner circle Rhode Island 3115 Posts
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Quote:
On May 31, 2025, Mindpro wrote: That YOU are incapable of addressing the BASIC entry-level needs of a person who has never been in a position where he needed to market his skills before is not MY problem. I know you're smart. I know you know what to do. Where you seem to fall down is in the ability to explain to OTHERS who are BEGINNING in marketing what they should do. I'm sorry I couldn't think along your lines. If everyone could, there would be no need for help books or tutoring. Maybe this information WON'T help me. Maybe I can't focus well enough to utilize this information. But these people are trying to help. All you did was say; "If you don't know, you don't belong here." As I've said before, if you can't help, (and you really don't seem to be able to in any seriously positive way) then you should leave the thread.
"When you punish a person for dreaming their dreams,
don't expect them to thank or forgive you." The Mountain Goats; "The Best Ever Death Metal Band Out of Denton" |
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smithart Special user Texas 944 Posts
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On May 30, 2025, TomBoleware wrote: The problem is that the more back-and-forth and repetition there is on this thread, the less likely that someone who might actually benefit will find it and read it. Go back and read the entire thread, and you'll see this is not the first time you (among others) have given the exact same advice in just as simple terms.
AKA Professor Memento
https://mementomysteries.com |
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TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3817 Posts
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I don’t give up on those asking for help, cause if I do they do. The fact that Ed is still here after being told over and over to give up tells me he is a much smarter and stronger man than most. He has what it takes to succeed in business. Besides, we can’t ‘teach’ anybody anything, we can only make them think.
Ed should quit when Ed says quit, not one of us telling him too. We shouldn't come here to destroy dreams. Tom
"You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want." --Zig Ziglar
Blogspot: https://boleware.blogspot.com/ The Daycare Magician Book https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ |
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smithart Special user Texas 944 Posts
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On May 31, 2025, TomBoleware wrote: Tom, I appreciate your patience. As you know I'm a big advocate of giving people the benefit of the doubt. But remember that sometimes helping hurts those you try to help: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/......g-others So my caution was that we would be better focusing our help on what is helpful for the largest number, rather than continuing to answer Ed's questions that have already been adequately answered (and are now just dependent on him taking action). I hope that makes sense.
AKA Professor Memento
https://mementomysteries.com |
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ed rhodes Inner circle Rhode Island 3115 Posts
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I appreciate Tom's help (as well as the others here) and I appreciate your clarity. I believe I have already posted here that I've gotten the first steps that I needed, and that if I fail to follow through on them, then that's all on me!
Thank you, all of you. 
"When you punish a person for dreaming their dreams,
don't expect them to thank or forgive you." The Mountain Goats; "The Best Ever Death Metal Band Out of Denton" |
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smithart Special user Texas 944 Posts
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On May 31, 2025, ed rhodes wrote: That's good news, Ed. We look forward to hearing about your progress.
AKA Professor Memento
https://mementomysteries.com |
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Mindpro Eternal Order 11171 Posts
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On May 30, 2025, TomBoleware wrote: Correct, which is why the first thing I teach is how to deal with this. The point is, and I'm speaking quite honesty here in true reality, if he is struggling with this simple stage of just thinking and making some initial decision to clarify moving forward, how is he going to be when he is right in the thick of things dealing with actual clients and their expectations, demands, and pressure to live up to them? It will be impossible for him without a COMPLETE mindset and mental adjustment which is almost impossible for someone his age and acceptent of some many obstacles and excuses. Cheering him will not help him in any way. He doesn't need rah-rah false encouragement, he needs to learn the reality to properly determine if this is for him and he can and really wants to do it. So if he is struggling here, it will only get bigger, harsher, and compounded as he progresses. The other point is everyone here had to face the same thing at some point (or they wouldn't be here) and you either put your head down and make the adjustments and shifts to make it happen....or you don't. Quite simple really. The ball is in Ed's court and he is either gonna play...or take his ball and go home. |
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TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3817 Posts
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I’m sitting here thinking what would my buddy AI tell us if we asked the same question Ed asked: “How to begin marketing a magic show from a completely cold start?” Turns out much of it has been answered here already. But seeing it all in a condensed version in one post might be better.
I hope this helps and makes it clearer for everybody. --------------------- Starting to market a magic show from scratch requires a strategic approach to build an audience, establish your brand, and create buzz. Here’s a concise step-by-step guide to get you going: 1. Define Your Brand and Show Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Identify what makes your magic show stand out (e.g., unique tricks, storytelling, comedy, or a specific theme like gothic or futuristic). Target Audience: Determine who your show is for—families, adults, corporate events, or kids’ parties. Stage Name and Persona: Create a memorable stage name and persona that aligns with your act (e.g., mysterious, whimsical, or high-energy). 2. Build a Professional Presence Create a Website: Set up a simple website with your bio, show details, photos, and a booking inquiry form. Use platforms like Wix or Squarespace for affordability. Social Media Profiles: Start accounts on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Post short, engaging clips of your tricks to showcase your skills. Professional Materials: Design a logo, business cards, and a one-sheet (a single-page promo document) with your show details, contact info, and testimonials (if available). 3. Develop Content to Attract Attention Video Content: Record high-quality, short videos of your best tricks or teasers of your show. Post regularly on social media to build a following. Behind-the-Scenes: Share your journey as a magician—rehearsals, trick creation, or fun facts about magic—to connect with audiences. Engage Locally: Post about your shows or practice sessions on local community boards or groups (e.g., Nextdoor, Facebook groups). 4. Start Performing to Gain Exposure Free or Low-Cost Gigs: Offer to perform at local events, charity functions, schools, or libraries to gain experience and visibility. Street Magic: Perform in high-traffic public areas (with proper permits) to attract crowds and collect contact info for future shows. Open Mics or Talent Shows: Participate in local open mic nights or talent competitions to network and get noticed. 5. Leverage Low-Cost Marketing Tactics Social Media Ads: Run targeted ads on Instagram or Facebook with a small budget ($10–$50) to promote your videos or upcoming shows to local audiences. Flyers and Posters: Distribute flyers in community centers, coffee shops, or libraries. Include a QR code linking to your website or a teaser video. Email List: Start collecting emails at performances (e.g., via a sign-up sheet) and send monthly updates about upcoming shows or exclusive tricks. 6. Network and Collaborate Local Businesses: Partner with restaurants, bars, or event venues to perform in exchange for exposure or a small fee. Other Performers: Connect with local comedians, musicians, or entertainers for joint events or referrals. Magic Communities: Join magic clubs or online forums (e.g., The Magic Café) to learn from others and find gig opportunities. 7. Book Your First Paid Gigs Start Small: Pitch to local event planners, birthday parties, or corporate events. Offer a discounted rate for your first few shows to build a portfolio. Testimonials and Reviews: After each gig, ask for feedback or a testimonial to add to your website and marketing materials. Referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to refer you to others or leave reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp. 8. Track and Refine Monitor Engagement: Check which social media posts or marketing efforts get the most traction and double down on those. Ask for Feedback: After shows, ask audiences what they loved or what could improve to refine your act. Build a Portfolio: Collect photos, videos, and reviews from every performance to strengthen your marketing materials. Tips for Success Consistency is Key: Post content regularly and perform as often as possible to build momentum. Stay Legal: Check local regulations for street performances or event permits. Invest in Skills: Keep practicing and learning new tricks to keep your act fresh.
"You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want." --Zig Ziglar
Blogspot: https://boleware.blogspot.com/ The Daycare Magician Book https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ |
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smithart Special user Texas 944 Posts
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On May 31, 2025, TomBoleware wrote: I'm sorry, Tom, but this is exactly what we DON"T need at this point in this thread.
AKA Professor Memento
https://mementomysteries.com |
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TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3817 Posts
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Really? You don't need a long list of ideas and suggestions to read and choose from? You don't think that's a good idea? All in one place without all the distractions, the fluff, and the bs?
You would think, everything in one place written in plain understandable words without all the back and forth would be a good thing. Oh I see a few things that I dislike on the list but it's easy to mark them off and still have a good plan in hand. Tom
"You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want." --Zig Ziglar
Blogspot: https://boleware.blogspot.com/ The Daycare Magician Book https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ |
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Mindpro Eternal Order 11171 Posts
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Quote:
On May 31, 2025, TomBoleware wrote: Funny I did the same thing and this is what it said: "He is not ready to market yet, he doesn't even have a show, target market or avatar!" It also went on to say "Do not listen to a thing Tom says (he's not an entertainer), listen to everything Mindpro said!" Here is a great example of why NOT to go to ChatGPT or AI. It simply combs the internet for its answers which means it is combing all of the poor, terrible, incorrect, and misinformation, theories, and opinions that are all over the internet (the EXACT thing that confuses those trying to start in magic/entertainment) from magicians pretending to help magicians or as we say in the real world the blind leading the blind. In reality, all fun aside, smithart is exactly right, you and your "buddy" and all of this nonsense of AI is not at all what is needed here at all. |
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TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3817 Posts
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Oh I believe he has said, many. Many. Many, Many times right here on this thread that he is ONLY GATHERING MARKETING INFORMATION RIGHT NOW.
Am I the only one on here that can read. ED has done shows before, he is not a beginner, he has studied magic all his life. He is just looking for marketing ideas right now. And he framed this topic in hope that MINDPRO and a few others would speak in plain words without using all the normal BS. He has said that he has gotten a lot of help from others here already. I simply recapped what has been said by others right here in this topic and put it in one post. Now, along comes smithart/Mindpro saying all you people here are wrong. Really, give me a break. Tom
"You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want." --Zig Ziglar
Blogspot: https://boleware.blogspot.com/ The Daycare Magician Book https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ |
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ed rhodes Inner circle Rhode Island 3115 Posts
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Quote:
On Jun 1, 2025, Mindpro wrote: The ball is in my court NOW, because I've been given the information you kept saying I should already have. Maybe, MAYBE, nothing will happen. Maybe I won't be able to build the show. Maybe I'll have the show, but chicken out at the last step. But, if either of those things happen, they're on ME, not you. All I asked from you was the first baby steps in marketing, which THEY were able to give me. I know you're smart. I know you know your business. But you and I do NOT seem to ba able to communicate. So, for all intents and purposes, there's no reason for you to be here.
"When you punish a person for dreaming their dreams,
don't expect them to thank or forgive you." The Mountain Goats; "The Best Ever Death Metal Band Out of Denton" |
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Mindpro Eternal Order 11171 Posts
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You keep saying that fortunately that is not for you to decide. You can not dictate who chooses to participate here, sorry.
In realty this thread has helped several others that have been very grateful for what I have offered and for calling out the nonsense and BS when I see it. |
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ed rhodes Inner circle Rhode Island 3115 Posts
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Gee, seemed to me you could tell me to get out of a thread. I'm, frankly, not telling YOU to leave. I'm just saying there's no reason for you to stay here.
"When you punish a person for dreaming their dreams,
don't expect them to thank or forgive you." The Mountain Goats; "The Best Ever Death Metal Band Out of Denton" |
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TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3817 Posts
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But Ed, we need him here to call out all the nonsense and BS. That’s a big help to all those invisible people here that can’t think for themselves. lol
Anyways, it reminds me of this ole story: One day, a professor entered his classroom and asked his students to prepare for a surprise test. They all waited nervously at their desks for the exam to begin. The professor handed out the exams with the text facing down, as usual. Once he handed them all out, he asked the students to turn over the papers. To everyone’s surprise, there were no questions, just a black dot in the center of the paper. The professor, seeing the expression on everyone’s faces, told them the following: “I want you to write about what you see there.” The students, confused, got started on the task. At the end of the class, the professor took all the papers and started reading each one of them out loud in front of all the students. All of them, with no exception, defined the black dot, trying to explain its position in the center of the sheet. After all had been read, the classroom silent, the professor started to explain: “I’m not going to grade you on this; I just wanted to give you something to think about. No one wrote about the white part of the paper. Everyone focused on the black dot, and the same thing happens in our lives. However, we insist on focusing only on the black dot, the health issues that bother us, the lack of money, the complicated relationship with a family member, the dissatisfaction with a friend. The dark spots are very small when compared to everything we have in our lives, but they are the ones that pollute our minds. Take your eyes away from the black dots in your lives. Enjoy each one of your blessings, each moment that life gives you. Be happy and live a life filled with love!” And so it is here on the Cafe, we don’t come here to be forced to stare at and accept a single dot we like to see and maybe consider parts of the whole picture for ourselves. Nor do we like being shamed for looking away from the dot if we so choose. The saying "there’s two sides to a coin" is very true and reflects that set rules may not apply universally due to varying contexts, goals, or circumstances. All people don’t think alike, and trying to force people to only see things the way you see them is not really helping. What might be true or effective in one situation, for one person, with a specific goal in mind, could be completely different in another. Our individual experiences, values, and even our current circumstances shape how we perceive things. Trying to impose a single way of thinking not only ignores this fundamental truth but can also be counterproductive. When we allow for different perspectives, we open ourselves up to a richer and a better understanding of the world around us. It's about recognizing that different "sides" can coexist and even complement each other. Tom
"You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want." --Zig Ziglar
Blogspot: https://boleware.blogspot.com/ The Daycare Magician Book https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ |
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smithart Special user Texas 944 Posts
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On Jun 1, 2025, TomBoleware wrote: This type of consolidated list (written much better, by actual humans including you, George, me, and MindPro) has been posted multiple times on this thread, so posting something substandard by AI is just redundant at this point. You suggested that Ed is getting bogged down or intimidated in the Big Picture, so (based on your own analysis) pulling him back into a big picture view seems counter-productive. He needs to pick one thing and do it -- NOW -- no matter how hard or uncomfortable it is. Planning (steering) is good when you are about to step on the gas but sitting in the parking lot turning your steering wheel back and forth won't get you anywhere, and it won't prepare you for when you finally decide to push that pedal. The steering wheel only works when you are moving.
AKA Professor Memento
https://mementomysteries.com |
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smithart Special user Texas 944 Posts
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On Jun 1, 2025, TomBoleware wrote: At what point did I ever tell anyone that they were wrong? I have continued to try different approaches to help Ed, including trying to determine what he is actually ready to do. I have quoted positively about every person on this thread. But some advice is more effective than others, and some approaches are more likely to help more than others. (If you are interested in my qualifications to speak on these matters, feel free to PM me.)
AKA Professor Memento
https://mementomysteries.com |
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Mindpro Eternal Order 11171 Posts
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This thread offered some great advice for beginners starting out. Then it became the Tom & Ed Show. Even Ed has concluded that it is now up to him to see if and what happens next. But as always, the loudest voice is the one that doesn't even have an entertainment performing business. Everything is outdated, surfaced based rah-rah nonsense (that could've been done by PM!) that is just his thoughts and opinions, nothing entertainment based at all. Even his tiny bit of performing was 45 or 50 years ago, again not one to be giving any advice here.
The fact that myself and others are calling him out is the problem as it always is in this tread. Danny isn't here to call Tom on his BS as he always does so he (Tom) takes over and tries to dominate this thread and now without even his own thoughts and opinions - HE HAS TO USE HIS "BUDDY" AI! There should be no place for AI on a forum about ones own entertainment business experiences. It is just crazy to me that the loudest voice in this entire forum and in threads over the last decade is from the only guy here who is a non-performer and does not have an entertainment business at all!!! I am still amazed this is allowed to happen at all. He has offered so much misinformation, incorrect, and blatantly wrong nonsense information it is amazing to me and others here. |
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Posted: May 31, 2025 01:51 am 
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