One of the great joys of leading our Mystery School community is watching our students and peers grow along the magical path. My friend Tim Santiago Converse recently wrote a reflection on his first year in magic. His words capture the spirit of mentorship, humility, and self-discovery. I wanted to share a portion of it with you here.
From Tim Santiago Converse
“Year One: All the Things I Wish I Knew When I Started 30 Years Ago”
When I first began in magic, everything I owned fit inside a battered briefcase. I still have it–cracked leather, worn corners, and stuffed with memories of a younger version of myself… nervous hands, big dreams, and not a clue what I was really searching for.
These days, I find myself wondering what I would say to that kid if I could send a message backwards through time. What advice would have spared me years of frustration? What guidance would have helped me grow with more intention and less noise? This is what I would tell him, and what I now share with peers who’ve been walking this road just as long.
1. Find a Mentor
A mentor is the greatest shortcut you will ever take. A true teacher doesn’t just explain how a trick works, they ask you why you want to perform it. In your first year you may guard your secrets and want to go it alone, but trust me, the path is richer when someone walks ahead of you with a lantern.
And later, when you become the mentor, don’t imagine you’ve outgrown the need for guidance. Your mentors simply come from new places–theater directors, coaches, business minds, or storytellers. Teaching others refines your own philosophy in a way nothing else can.
2. Find Who You Are
Imitation is natural at the beginning. We all echo our heroes. But sooner or later you must turn inward. What do you want to express? What story do you want to tell? Is your character aligned with your look, your words, your movement?
And for those of us decades into the craft, are we still performing as the person we were at 25? Or have we quietly outgrown our old persona? Magic should reflect who we are now. Sometimes evolution is overdue.
3. Find Your Community
Magic may feel solitary, but it was never meant to be done alone. The right community will challenge you, support you, and keep you honest.
And for the veterans: if you feel isolated at the top of your local scene, it’s time to widen the circle. Seek collaborators outside of magic–dancers, actors, entrepreneurs, and musicians. Talk not just about methods, but about legacy, burnout, imagination, and longevity. And always make time for the younger magicians. They need your guidance, and their creativity might just reawaken your own.
From Jeff
These are just a few highlights from Tim’s beautiful letter. There is much more depth, honesty, and wisdom in the complete version. You can read the full piece in this month’s Secret Arts Journal: https://www.secretartjournal.com
The Gift of Magic
This is the season when we share what matters most: wonder, wisdom, and the gift of mystery. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for yourself or someone who loves magic, this is it. A private online session with me is one of the most powerful ways to deepen your practice. Whether you want to learn new techniques, refine routines, strengthen presentations, or explore magic’s history and philosophy, we can go exactly where you want to go.
Abigail has created a beautiful gift certificate to make this easy. To reserve yours, email her or call at 702-450-0021.
The Las Vegas Séance Summit
It’s hard to believe Houdini has been gone for over a century, yet his spirit lives, especially here at the Mystery School. To honor this milestone, we are hosting a very special, in-person training: The Las Vegas Séance Summit.
This immersive experience will show you how to create atmosphere, structure a séance, use classic “spirit theater” techniques, and, most importantly, how to build your own Houdini-themed séance to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of his passing.
This event is limited to 13 participants, and more than half the seats are already taken. If you feel called to explore this sacred and theatrical tradition, now is the time to join us.
Houdini’s Spirit Lives…at Mystery School
Before he became the world’s most famous escape artist, Houdini was known as “The King of Cards.” His early mastery, focus, and unshakable drive helped shape my own path in magic. Ok, I was even inspired by his poster, too!
Houdini’s spirit is alive in our school today and inspires me to continue releasing books, videos, and stage-ready routines for our community.
Featured Creation: Mental Towers
One of my strongest routines for stage is now available.
Our final shipment from Asia has arrived. This is the last production run, and only a few sets remain. You can watch the demonstration video and explore my full line of magic creations, just in time for holiday shows – https://shop.magicalwisdom.com
Our New Book! A Book for All Seasons
Our newest new book includes tricks, tips, and big ideas from magicians Jeff McBride and Eugene Burger, alongside work by Alexandra Duvivier, Bill Cook, Dani DaOrtiz, Shawn Farquhar, and many others. Both hardcover and pdf versions are available.
McBride World Tour News
Magic World Vienna
Soon I will be performing at the remarkable Magic World theater in Vienna. More details are available at https://www.magicworld.at/en/show/magicwinterfestival25
The Magic Castle – Hollywood
At the end of January, I will return to the Close-Up Gallery of the Magic Castle. If you are a Castle member, I look forward to seeing you there!
Blessings to all for a great holiday season ahead.
With gratitude and inspiration,
Jeff & Abigail McBride