Fergus Flanagan and Neb Maciver on Talking Magic

The Human Risk Podcast

What can we learn from magic? On this episode, I’m joined by two magicians, Fergus Flanagan and Neb Maciver, founders of Talk Magic and both accomplished magicians in their own right, who join me to share their unique journeys, from Fergus's early days working on Children's BBC to Neb’s transition from band life to full-time magician.
Through their Talk Magic partnership, they aim to inspire conversations around storytelling, creativity, and mental health. You’ll hear them open up about their personal struggles and how those experiences have shaped their professional relationship and the creation of Talk Magic.
We also discuss the multifaceted journey of becoming a successful magician, why mastering responsibilities like website building, PR, and social media is as important as the performance.
Neb and Fergus share insights on how magicians market themselves to become essential at events and create emotional connections with potential clients. Learn about the significance of collaboration, spontaneity, and maintaining engaging performances.
Hear how the bond between Fergus and Neb forms the foundation of their unique workshops, blending magic with valuable life lessons for personal and professional growth.
Finally, we explore the versatility and impact of incorporating magic into corporate events and workshops. Discover how Fergus and Neb ensure each magic trick is relevant and actionable for their audience, making their sessions engaging and memorable.
We also touch upon the ethics and intrigue of magic, balancing the maintenance of illusions with audience curiosity. With reflections on the privilege and absurdity of being magicians, our conversation reveals how magic serves as a universal equaliser, creating a level playing field for all participants.
Key Discussion Points (AI generated)
1. Introduction to Fergus and Neb:

• [00:01:00] Their individual journeys into magic.
• [00:04:30] Fergus's career beginning with Children's BBC and Neb’s transition from music to magic
• [00:08:15] The formation of their collaborative venture, Talk Magic.

2. The Art of Magic Beyond Illusions:

• [00:12:00] The importance of storytelling, creativity, and mental health awareness in their performances.
• [00:15:45] The behind-the-scenes work that goes into becoming a successful magician, including PR, social media, and creating emotional connections with clients.

3. Creating Impactful Performances and Workshops:

• [00:20:30] How Talk Magic combines magic with life lessons to foster personal and professional growth.
• [00:24:10] The significance of keeping performances fresh and spontaneous.

4. Magic in Corporate Workshops and Events:

• [00:28:45] The balance between maintaining the mystique of magic and engaging the audience.
• [00:32:20] The role of magic as a universal equaliser in corporate settings.

5. The Business and Ethics of Magic:

• [00:37:00] The multifaceted responsibilities of magicians, from website building to accountancy.
• [00:41:25] Ethical considerations in magic, such as balancing the audience's curiosity with the need to maintain the illusion.

6. Magic as a Tool for Learning and Connection:

• [00:46:10] Magic's effectiveness in stealth learning and creating emotional connections.
• [00:50:00] The profound impact of combining magic with valuable life lessons.

7. Personal Struggles and Professional Synergy:

• [00:54:30] How Fergus and Neb’s shared struggles have shaped their professional relationship.
• [00:58:20] Their commitment to supporting each other through difficult times.

8. Building and Naming the Brand:

• [01:02:45] The journey of naming their brand "Talk Magic" and its significance.
• [01:06:15] The impact of their tagline "magicians who love to share secrets."

9. Engaging Corporate Clients:

• [01:10:40] The challenges and successes of making magic relevant and actionable for corporate audiences.
• [01:15:00] The importance of clear communication and demonstrating practical benefits.

10. Continuous Improvement and Authenticity:

• [01:19:30] Their obsessive approach to refining their workshops and performances. -
• [01:23:45] The value of maintaining high standards in both magic and the educational content they provide.

11. Magic's Universal Appeal:

• [01:28:10] How magic can connect individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• [01:32:00] The influence of a magician's mindset on everyday problem-solving and awareness.

Links
Talk Magic - https://www.wearetalkmagic.com/
Talk Magic on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearetalkmagic
Talk Magic on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/talkmagic/
Neb’s website - https://nebmagic.com/ Fergus’ website - https://fergusflanagan.com/
The tweet by Derren Brown that first made Neb aware of Fergus - https://x.com/DerrenBrown/status/253536114269372416