Author: MagicBrad

Magical Since 1957 - Born an dRaised in Minneapolis (Fridley), Minnesota. Self-Employed most all his life, MagicBrad is an entertainer (magician), presenter, marketer and event producer.
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How Krispy Kreme and Fridley Created Massive Demand (and Those Long Lines!)

How Krispy Kreme and Fridley Created Massive Demand (and Those Long Lines!)

When the Krispy Kreme in Fridley exploded onto the scene with huge demand and lines wrapped around the block, it wasn’t an accident — it was a perfect combination of brand psychology, scarcity, nostalgia, and community buzz. Here’s how it happened.

1. The Power of Nostalgia Marketing

Krispy Kreme isn’t just a donut — it’s a memory.
For years, Minnesotans didn’t have a Krispy Kreme location. People remembered road trips where they’d grab a warm donut in other states or recall the brand from travels down South.

So when Krispy Kreme returned, it triggered:

  • “Finally, they’re back!”

  • Childhood memories

  • Curiosity for younger people who had only heard the hype

Nostalgia is one of the strongest drivers of consumer behavior, especially in markets like the Twin Cities where families value traditions and shared experiences.

2. Scarcity Creates Frenzy

The Fridley store wasn’t one of many — it was the only Krispy Kreme in Minnesota for a while.

Scarcity = urgency.

People will wait in line for:

  • Something rare

  • Something they can’t get anywhere else

  • Something that feels like a limited-time opportunity

A single location serving the whole metro?
That alone guarantees long lines.

3. The Hot Light Phenomenon

Krispy Kreme’s famous “Hot Now” sign is behavioral psychology at its finest.

When the light is on, people know:

  • Fresh donuts coming off the line

  • You’re getting something better than usual

  • It’s happening right now

It creates a Fear of Missing Out (FOMO).
People see the light → They pull into the parking lot → Lines grow → Others see the lines → Demand escalates.

4. Social Proof: Lines Create More Lines

In Fridley especially, visibility matters.

The location is on a major commuter route.
Thousands of drivers saw the long lines every day.

What do long lines signal?

➡️ “This place must be amazing.”
➡️ “Everyone else is doing it.”

Humans copy behavior — it’s built in.
The line itself becomes marketing.

5. Media Coverage + Social Buzz

Local media LOVES a good opening-day frenzy.

WCCO, KARE 11, FOX 9, Star Tribune, local bloggers… everyone covered:

  • People camping out overnight

  • Cars wrapped around the block

  • Donuts selling out

Then social media amplified it:

  • Photos of the line

  • Boomer nostalgia posts

  • Foodies posting warm-glazed donut photos

  • TikTokers doing “Minnesotans be like…” videos

Every post = free advertising.
Every share = more demand.

6. Minnesotans LOVE Trying the New Thing

When something new lands in the suburbs — especially in Fridley, Blaine, and Brooklyn Park — the whole area wants to check it out.

It becomes:

  • A family outing

  • A date night stop

  • A “we should swing by after work” idea

  • A weekend adventure

Experiences create demand, not products.

7. Krispy Kreme Leans Into the Theater of Food

Inside that Fridley store, customers watch the donuts:

  • Ride the conveyor

  • Get bathed in glaze

  • Come out warm

It’s not just “buying a donut.”
It’s a show.
And people line up for a show.

In One Sentence

Krispy Kreme and Fridley created huge demand through nostalgia, scarcity, visible social proof, media buzz, and the irresistible “Hot Light” experience that made Minnesotans feel like they were part of something special.

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The Benefits of Starting a Foundation

Starting a foundation—whether it’s charitable, family-based, or corporate—comes with a range of financial, personal, and social benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages:

💰 Financial & Tax Benefits

  1. Tax Deductions:
    Contributions made to your foundation are generally tax-deductible, allowing you to reduce your taxable income.
    (Note: subject to IRS limits and compliance with 501(c)(3) rules in the U.S.)

  2. Tax-Advantaged Growth:
    Assets in the foundation (investments, endowments, etc.) can grow tax-free or tax-deferred, maximizing the amount available for future giving.

  3. Estate Planning Tool:
    Placing assets into a foundation can reduce estate taxes while ensuring your wealth supports causes you care about for generations.

🌎 Social Impact & Legacy

  1. Long-Term Philanthropic Legacy:
    A foundation can continue to give long after your lifetime—perpetuating your name, mission, and values.

  2. Community Influence:
    Foundations often gain credibility and influence in their communities, positioning founders as respected changemakers or thought leaders.

  3. Focused Giving:
    You can direct funds to the exact causes and projects you care about (e.g., arts, education, environment, health, etc.) rather than donating through intermediaries.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & Personal Benefits

  1. Family Engagement & Education:
    Family members can serve on the board, learning about leadership, stewardship, and philanthropy. It can also help strengthen family bonds around shared values.

  2. Personal Fulfillment:
    Many founders describe deep satisfaction in seeing their resources make tangible, positive differences in people’s lives.

  3. Networking & Collaboration:
    Foundations attract partnerships with other philanthropists, nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses—creating new relationships and opportunities.

🧭 Business & Brand Benefits (for entrepreneurs & corporations)

  1. Positive Public Relations:
    A foundation demonstrates corporate social responsibility (CSR), enhancing your reputation with customers, employees, and investors.

  2. Employee Engagement:
    Corporate foundations often run grant programs or volunteer days that boost morale and retention.

  3. Strategic Alignment:
    Supporting causes related to your industry (e.g., education for a tech company, sustainability for a food brand) strengthens your overall brand mission.

⚖️ But Also Consider…

  • Administrative Requirements: Filing reports, maintaining compliance, and managing grants requires time or hired help.

  • Startup Costs: Setting up and maintaining a private foundation can cost several thousand dollars annually.

  • Public Accountability: Foundations are subject to public scrutiny and transparency laws.

SEE: FollowMagicBrad.com

 

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10 HOT Topics in Business Development

Here are 10 hot topics in business development right now, along with why they matter and how you might use them — especially given your interest in event planning, Twin Cities networks, and affiliate/marketing models.

# Topic Why it’s hot What you could explore (for your blog, workshop, or event-pitch)
1 Strategic use of Artificial Intelligence & Automation AI isn’t just a buzzword any more — it’s being woven into business operations (customer service, marketing optimization, process automation). arXiv+3SpoStudio+3PromoteProject+3 How event-planners and suppliers in the Twin Cities can leverage AI (chatbots, lead scoring, personalization) to grow their business.
2 Hybrid/Remote Work Models Reinvented With remote/hybrid work now mainstream, businesses are redefining workspaces, culture, collaboration tools. Further Business+2The Poirier Group+2 For community/networking events (like your Twin Cities gatherings) — how to design for both in-person & virtual engagement; how service-suppliers pivot.
3 Sustainability & Circular-Economy Business Models “Green” is no longer optional; consumers, investors and regulators expect companies to embed sustainability. Birmingham City University+2Further Business+2 For event planners and venues: how to market eco-friendly events, zero-waste catering, green supply-chains — especially in Minnesota.
4 Embedded/Fintech & New Payment Ecosystems Financial services embedded into other platforms (wallets, BNPL, global payments) are rewriting how business development works. PromoteProject+2Accio+2 For your affiliate-marketing blog: promoting tools that simplify payment/recurring-commission models; exploring how event funding and sponsorships are evolving.
5 Data Privacy, Cyber-Security & Trust Infrastructure As digital business accelerates, protecting data, establishing trust, and complying with regulations are key differentiators. SpoStudio+1 For your audience of event planners/suppliers: highlight how to secure guest-data, digital marketing lists, vendor integrations.
6 Creator Economy & Community-Driven Business Growth More businesses are leveraging creators/influencers and community platforms to build growth systems. Further Business+1 Aligns well with your mastermind/“Synergy Collaborative” theme in Twin Cities: how to harness creators & content for business development.
7 Immersive Technologies (AR/VR/Mixed Reality) New ways of engaging customers/participants via immersive tools are emerging across industries. GLOBIS Insights+1 Event planning angle: VR event tours, hybrid reality experiences, virtual event-spaces for local networking.
8 Localised & Community-First Marketing/Business Models Rather than global-mass, more businesses succeed by hyper-local, community-oriented models. idochat+1 Your focus on Twin Cities/Fridley area fits perfectly: blog posts, event-series, local partnerships leveraging this trend.
9 Entrepreneurial Access & Digital Transformation for SMEs Technology is lowering the entry-barriers for small and medium businesses to scale and compete. The Poirier Group Good for your audience – planners, freelancers, affiliates: content on how to use lean tech & business development methods to grow.
10 Human-Machine Collaboration & “Augmented” Workforce It’s not just AI replacing work — it’s humans + machines doing new forms of work together. Medium For business development: how event teams, marketing ops, service suppliers can design workflows where tech supports them (rather than replacing).

LinkedMinnesota.com

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Michael Barnes — NLP Master Life Coach, Author & Speaker Helping Men Break Free From Addiction

HOST: MagicBrad
GUEST: Michael Barnes
WEBSITE: https://www.buildinglifefoundations.com/

Michael Barnes — NLP Master Life Coach, Author & Speaker Helping Men Break Free From Addiction

In today’s fast-paced world, many young men silently struggle with addiction, stress, and emotional overwhelm. For men ages 25–35, the pressure to succeed, stay strong, and “figure it out alone” can create powerful internal battles. But true strength isn’t suffering in silence — it’s choosing to transform.

That’s where Michael Barnes, NLP Master Life Coach, Author, and Transformational Speaker steps in. His mission: to help men overcome addiction, rebuild confidence, and create lives rooted in purpose, clarity, and freedom.

Why Men 25–35 Turn to Michael Barnes

Many men in their late twenties and early thirties feel stuck between what society expects of them and who they know they can become. Careers, relationships, identity, finances — life hits fast. For men navigating recovery or breaking the grip of addiction, this stage is a turning point.

Michael Barnes brings a modern, science-backed, mindset-driven approach tailored to this generation. His coaching aligns with real-life challenges men face today:

✅ Recovery and relapse prevention
✅ Rebuilding confidence and self-worth
✅ Stress and anxiety management
✅ Purpose and direction after addiction
✅ Breaking destructive habits and cycles
✅ Emotional mastery and resilience

As an NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Master Coach, Michael helps men understand how their thoughts, patterns, and identity shape their outcomes — and more importantly, how to rewire them.

What Makes His Approach Different?

Many recovery programs focus on the problem.
Michael focuses on the person, the future, and your potential.

Through his coaching, book insights, and powerful speaking events, Michael Barnes uses NLP techniques to help men:

  • Reprogram addictive thought patterns

  • Build a resilient, focused mindset

  • Let go of shame and self-judgment

  • Develop personal discipline and emotional strength

  • Step into a new identity rooted in power and purpose

His philosophy blends neuroscience, personal empowerment, and accountability, giving men tools that actually work in real-life situations — from relationships and career shifts to daily habits and triggers.

A Message to Men in Recovery: You’re Not Alone

Addiction doesn’t define you. Your past doesn’t own your future.

Whether you’re early in recovery, struggling with relapse cycles, or simply ready to become a stronger version of yourself, Michael Barnes provides a path forward built on truth, empowerment, and personal transformation.

“Men don’t heal by hiding — they heal by rising.”
— Michael Barnes

Ready to Rebuild Your Life With Confidence?

Men ages 25–35 searching phrases like life after addiction, men’s recovery coaching, NLP for addiction recovery, rebuilding confidence after addiction, overcoming relapse thinking, and mental strength for men are looking for real guidance — not lectures, not judgment.

If you’re ready to step into your power, break addictive patterns, and build a life of clarity, strength, and freedom, Michael Barnes is the mentor built for this moment.

Connect With Michael Barnes

👉 Life Coaching for Men in Recovery
👉 Workshops, Talks & Keynotes
👉 Books & Training Programs

Start your journey — not just to sobriety, but to purpose, power, and inner freedom.

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Wade Simmons: MovieMaker & Funeral Director — A Life Story Sculpted by Passion, Purpose, and Worsham College

Wade Simmons: MovieMaker & Funeral Director — A Life Story Sculpted by Passion, Purpose, and Worsham College

When you think of filmmaking, you might imagine Hollywood sound stages, packed theaters, and creative minds chasing stories that inspire emotion. When you think of funeral service, you picture quiet chapels, compassionate care, and heartfelt goodbyes. Rarely do those two worlds ever collide… but in the inspiring life of Wade Simmons, they don’t just meet — they complement each other.

Wade Simmons is a MovieMaker and Funeral Director, a unique talent who blends creativity with compassion, honoring life both on the screen and beyond it. His journey took shape at Worsham College, the renowned institution that has shaped leaders in funeral service for over a century.

🎬 The Filmmaker: A Storyteller at Heart

Some people make movies. Others live stories worth filming.

Wade Simmons is both.

From a young age, he was fascinated with the power of film — the ability to freeze moments, stir emotions, and connect people. Whether capturing raw human experiences or producing original projects, Wade approaches filmmaking with authenticity and a lens focused on what matters most: people.

His cinematic style reflects deep observation, emotional intelligence, and an understanding of the human journey — skills sharpened not only through creative practice, but through his work in funeral service.

⚰️ The Funeral Director: Serving with Honor and Heart

It takes a special kind of person to serve families during life’s most delicate moments.

Wade is one of them.

Guided by integrity, empathy, and professionalism, he has built a reputation as a trusted funeral director — someone who treats every family with dignity, every life with respect, and every farewell with gentleness.

His training at Worsham College became a cornerstone. Known for excellence in mortuary science education, Worsham equips funeral professionals not only with technical skills, but with a deeper understanding of grief, humanity, and service. Wade carries those values into every service he guides.

🎭 Art Meets Service

You might ask — how do filmmaking and funeral directing relate?

More than most people realize.

Both honor stories.
Both preserve memories.
Both bring comfort, clarity, and meaning.

Through his films, Wade uplifts the emotional moments that shape us.
Through his funeral work, he helps families navigate loss with grace.

Wade stands as proof that purpose doesn’t have boundaries — and that a life of service can also be a life of creative expression.

🌟 A Rare & Inspiring Path

Many choose careers. Wade Simmons chose vocation and vision.

He reminds us that talent is not always confined to one category — and that the most meaningful lives are those rooted in both passion and service.

Whether behind the camera or supporting a family in grief, Wade shows up fully, sincerely, and with heart.

And that is the mark of a true professional — and a true storyteller.

💬 Final Thought

As the world evolves, creative entrepreneurs and service-minded leaders like Wade are shaping new dimensions of what it means to live a purposeful life.

If you’re considering a future in funeral service — or you’re simply inspired by people who pursue their passions boldly — take a page from Wade’s story.

Honor life. Capture moments. Serve with heart.

And never be afraid to blend your gifts — you just might create something extraordinary.

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Homeownership Hurts My Heart: Overcoming the Impossible!

 

Homeownership Hurts My Heart: Overcoming the Impossible!
A Lake Minnetonka Dream for First-Time Buyers

For many first-time homebuyers, the journey toward owning a home can feel heavy — stressful negotiations, rising interest rates, limited inventory, and the emotional rollercoaster of wondering “Can I really do this?” If you’ve ever felt your heart sink while scrolling listings around Lake Minnetonka, you’re not alone.

Yes… homeownership can hurt your heart at times. But it’s also the doorway to stability, wealth-building, community, and the magic of waking up every day near one of Minnesota’s most iconic lakes.

Let’s talk about overcoming that feeling of “impossible” — and turning your Lake Minnetonka dream into reality.

💔 Why Homeownership Hurts (At First)

For first-time buyers exploring communities like Wayzata, Excelsior, Minnetonka, Orono, Mound, and Deephaven, the emotions are real:

  • Sticker shock from gorgeous Lake Minnetonka listings

  • Pressure to buy before prices rise again

  • Fear of making a wrong decision

  • Stress from competing offers

  • Feeling discouraged after tours and denials

Buying property near Lake Minnetonka isn’t just a transaction — it’s an emotional mission. There’s a reason people romanticize lake life here: the sailboats, shoreline trails, cozy restaurants, and Minnesota sunsets that feel like they last forever.

Dreaming that big can make the process feel overwhelming — and that’s okay.

❤️ Turning the Heartache Into Motivation

Remember this: every current Lake Minnetonka homeowner once felt this way.

They questioned whether they’d ever get the keys. They wondered if they were making a huge mistake. But they kept going — and so can you.

Here’s how to move forward confidently:

✅ Get pre-approved early so you know your buying power
✅ Work with a Lake Minnetonka–focused real estate agent who understands neighborhoods and lakefront nuances
✅ Explore hidden gems like Spring Park, Navarre, and Shorewood for better value
✅ Consider condo or townhome options near the lake as a first step
✅ Ask about first-time buyer programs & Minnesota down payment assistance

Your heart might ache today — but tomorrow, you’ll be watching loons glide across Lake Minnetonka from your own deck.

🌊 The Lake Minnetonka Mindset

Owning a home here isn’t only about money — it’s about lifestyle and legacy.

Imagine:

  • Saturday brunch in Wayzata

  • Paddleboarding at sunrise

  • Community festivals on the docks

  • Cozy winters by the fireplace with lake views

  • Instant access to boating, beaches, and nature

Lake Minnetonka isn’t just a destination — it’s a lifestyle that welcomes dreamers, achievers, and first-time buyers willing to take the leap.

✨ Your Impossible Is Possible

If homeownership feels painful right now — good. It means you care.
And caring leads to clarity, commitment, and long-term success.

Your future home isn’t just a house — it’s a milestone, a memory-maker, and the start of your Lake Minnetonka story.

Keep learning. Keep saving. Keep showing up.
Those keys are closer than they feel.

Try saying this out loud:

“I will own a home on Lake Minnetonka. My dream is possible.”

Your heart might hurt today — but soon, it will be full.

🎣 Ready to Explore Lake Minnetonka Homes?

If you’re a first-time buyer dreaming of lake life, lakeside trails, charming downtowns, and a boat-in summer lifestyle — you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Let’s connect you with resources, market insights, and Lake Minnetonka–area professionals who understand your goals and support first-time buyers.

Your Lake Minnetonka dream home is waiting.
Let’s make “impossible” possible — together. 💙🌊🏡

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🏡 Let’s Talk Twin Cities Real Estate with Darci Smith — The Lake Minnetonka Dream for 30-Somethings

HOST: BRAD MagicBrad GUDIM
GUEST: Darci Smith
SEE MORE AT: https://linktr.ee/DarciMNRealtor
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/darci_mnrealtor

🏡 Let’s Talk Twin Cities Real Estate with Darci Smith — The Lake Minnetonka Dream for 30-Somethings

If you’re a 30-something professional living in the Twin Cities, there’s a good chance you’ve dreamed of owning your first home — maybe even one with lake views, paddleboard mornings, and sunset happy hours on Lake Minnetonka. In the YouTube video “Let’s Talk Twin Cities Real Estate with Darci Smith,” local real estate expert Darci Smith breaks down what it really takes to buy a home in today’s market — especially around one of Minnesota’s most sought-after spots: Lake Minnetonka.

🌊 Why Lake Minnetonka Is Calling the New Generation of Homebuyers

There’s a reason Lake Minnetonka is trending among young buyers. The area blends luxury living with laid-back lake vibes, offering everything from stylish condos near Wayzata’s restaurants to cozy single-family homes in quiet bays like Mound or Orono.

For first-time homebuyers in their 30s, this is the sweet spot — close enough to downtown Minneapolis for an easy commute, but far enough away to actually breathe and enjoy your weekends.

💬 Darci Smith Keeps It Real About Buying Your First Home

In the video, Darci talks about the real challenges first-time buyers face — rising interest rates, limited inventory, and competitive offers. But she also shares actionable strategies that help her clients stand out, including:

✅ Getting pre-approved early so you’re ready to make an offer.
✅ Exploring off-market listings that other buyers might miss.
✅ Considering starter homes that build equity toward your dream lake property.

Her friendly, no-fluff advice is refreshing. Darci knows how to make the process approachable — not intimidating.

🧭 The Millennial and Gen Y Homeownership Shift

Many 30-somethings are tired of renting and ready to invest. According to recent real estate data, more Millennials are entering the market than ever before, and they’re looking for lifestyle properties — not just houses.

Think:

  • Kayaks on the dock.

  • WFH setups with lake views.

  • Proximity to craft breweries, brunch spots, and trails.

Darci’s focus on lifestyle-based real estate resonates perfectly with this mindset.

🔑 Your Path to Lake Minnetonka Living

Whether you’re a digital nomad, a young family, or a couple ready to settle down, buying your first home near Lake Minnetonka isn’t just a financial move — it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

As Darci says in the video, “You don’t have to be rich to live near the lake — you just need the right plan.”

If that dream home with lake access has been sitting on your Pinterest board, now might be the time to turn it into reality.

🎥 Watch the Full Conversation

Catch the full episode of “Let’s Talk Twin Cities Real Estate with Darci Smith” on YouTube to learn insider tips, market updates, and how to make your first home purchase a smart one.

👉 Watch on YouTube (insert your video link here)

Keywords:
Twin Cities real estate, Lake Minnetonka homes, Darci Smith Realtor, first-time homebuyer tips, buying a house in Minneapolis, 30-something homebuyers, Wayzata real estate, Orono homes for sale, Millennial homeowners, Twin Cities lifestyle, Lake Minnetonka living, Minnesota real estate market

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Social Media is CHANGING FAST! Can You Keep Up?

Social media is evolving at lightning speed — faster than most of us can scroll. What worked last year (or even last month) might already feel outdated today. Whether you’re a business owner in the Twin Cities, a content creator, or simply someone trying to stay relevant online, the digital landscape is shifting beneath your feet.

🚀 The Algorithms Are Always Evolving

Every major platform — Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, and now Threads — constantly tweaks its algorithm. These invisible systems decide who sees your posts, when they see them, and how often. What used to be a simple “post and hope” process has become a science of timing, engagement, and consistency.

Businesses in Minneapolis and St. Paul that once thrived on Facebook Pages are now finding better reach on short-form video platforms like Instagram Reels or TikTok. The key takeaway? Adapt or get left behind.

🎥 Short-Form Video Is King

Attention spans are shrinking. Today’s audiences prefer quick, engaging videos that entertain, educate, or inspire within seconds. Platforms are rewarding creators who deliver bite-sized, authentic content that sparks emotion and conversation.

If you’re not experimenting with Reels, YouTube Shorts, or TikToks, now’s the time. Even local businesses — from coffee shops in St. Paul to real estate agents in Edina — are seeing results when they show their human side on camera.

💬 Authenticity Over Perfection

Gone are the days of polished perfection. Audiences crave realness — genuine stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and unfiltered truths. Whether you’re promoting a local event, a brand, or your personal journey, authenticity builds trust faster than any ad budget ever could.

The trend is clear: People don’t just want to buy products; they want to connect with personalities.

🌐 AI, Automation, and the Future of Engagement

Artificial intelligence tools are transforming how we manage and create content. From automated scheduling systems like MailBoxPower and Kartra, to AI-driven analytics and caption generators — the opportunities are endless. But while technology can boost efficiency, it can’t replace the human touch that builds community.

If you can combine smart automation with real engagement, you’ll stay ahead of the curve.

🔄 The New Rule: Evolve or Be Invisible

Social media success isn’t about mastering one platform — it’s about staying adaptable. As new trends emerge, those who test, learn, and pivot will continue to grow their influence and reach.

Whether you’re a business owner in Fridley, a Twin Cities event planner, or a digital entrepreneur building an audience — the ability to pivot quickly is your greatest advantage.

💡 Final Thought

Social media isn’t slowing down — and neither should you. The best strategy isn’t to chase every trend, but to stay curious, stay creative, and keep showing up.

The world is watching, scrolling, and sharing faster than ever.
Can you keep up?

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Twin Cities Entrepreneur Seeks Business Partner for Local Marketing Collaboration

Join MagicBrad and the Synergy Collaborative to co-create profitable marketing and event opportunities in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

💡 What This Partnership Is About

We’re building a network of creative entrepreneurs, event professionals, and marketers who love collaboration.
As a Synergy Partner, you can:

  • Earn 50% recurring commissions on memberships, event tickets, and exhibit spaces

  • Be part of a local marketing movement connecting Twin Cities businesses

  • Participate in networking socials, expos, and retreats

  • Work with MagicBrad — not for him

🧩 Who This Is For

You might be a:

  • Marketing professional or freelancer

  • Event planner or promoter

  • Speaker, coach, or content creator

  • Someone who loves connecting people and earning from collaboration

💰 What’s in It for You

  • Recurring income from every referral

  • Shared exposure across Synergy events and media

  • Opportunities for local and online collaboration

  • Freedom to work your own schedule

🚀 Next Step

Ready to explore the possibility?
Click below to schedule a 15-minute Intro Call with MagicBrad and see if there’s synergy.

👉 [Schedule a Call]
or be Spontaneous and CALL NOW at 612-242-6468
Schedule Here – https://magicbrad.youcanbook.me/

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THE PROCESS: How to Create a One-Man Show or Mini Play

🎭 THE PROCESS: How to Create a One-Man Show or Mini Play

1. Define Your Core Purpose

Ask yourself:

  • What do I want the audience to feel when they leave?

  • What message, story, or experience do I want to share?

  • Is this primarily entertainment, inspiration, education, or transformation?

👉 Example: “I want to show how the magic we seek outside of ourselves actually lives within.”

2. Choose a Theme or Concept

Some popular and powerful solo show themes:

  • Transformation (personal growth, reinvention, overcoming challenges)

  • Identity (who you are vs. who you appear to be)

  • Connection (love, friendship, spirituality, community)

  • Time (looking back on a life, or imagining the future)

  • Magic as a metaphor (illusion vs. reality, belief vs. skepticism)

✨ Tip: Your magic can serve as a metaphor that deepens the theme, rather than being the focus itself.

3. Develop a Narrative Arc

Even if it’s a “magic show,” a good one-man play has a story structure:

  1. Setup – Introduce yourself, your world, and the “premise.”

  2. Conflict / Challenge – Something changes. A belief is tested. A moment of doubt or discovery.

  3. Resolution / Transformation – You (and the audience) emerge changed or enlightened.

👉 Think in acts or chapters — 3 to 5 segments that each serve a purpose.

4. Script and Improv Balance

Write a script, but leave room for spontaneity.
Solo shows are strongest when they feel alive — as if you’re discovering it with the audience.

  • Script key transitions, cues, and emotional beats.

  • Improvise reactions, small interactions, and audience moments.

5. Weave in Multimedia or Magic

If you’re blending magic, storytelling, video, or music, decide:

  • Where does magic punctuate the story?

  • Can it represent something (illusion = self-deception, levitation = liberation)?

  • Should sound, lighting, or visuals enhance a specific emotional tone?

6. Workshop and Refine

Start small:

  • Try it out for a living-room audience, small theater, or coffeehouse.

  • Record yourself and watch for pacing, clarity, and engagement.

  • Cut what doesn’t serve the theme or energy flow.

7. Production Elements

Once you have your script and structure:

  • Choose minimal props or set pieces (less is more in a one-man show).

  • Use lighting and music to define different scenes.

  • Consider a director or dramaturg — an outside eye can be invaluable.

💡 FORMATS TO CONSIDER

Format Description Best For
Autobiographical Storytelling Telling your personal journey (with truth and humor) Authentic connection
Metaphorical / Magical Realism Using magic as symbolic art Spiritual or imaginative themes
Lecture-Style / TED-Theater Hybrid A “talk” that turns into theater Motivational or conceptual topics
Character Play You play multiple versions of yourself or different characters Comedy, satire, or depth
Interactive Experience The audience participates Connection, immersion, engagement

🔥 TOPICS AND THEMES THAT PLAY WELL

Audiences respond best to:

  • Personal truth — something only you can say

  • Transformation — how you grew or changed

  • Mystery and wonder — where magic meets meaning

  • Humor and humility — laughter makes honesty easier

  • Connection — “We’re all in this together” moments

🪄 MAGICBRAD-SPECIFIC IDEAS

Given your background and persona, a few show concepts might fit beautifully:

  1. “The Illusion of Control” – Magic meets mindfulness; learning to surrender.

  2. “Confessions of a Real-Life Magician” – Stories from your career mixed with tricks and truths.

  3. “Magic and Miracles” – A playful reflection on belief, coincidence, and the unseen.

  4. “The Business of Belief” – A fusion of entrepreneurship, creativity, and showmanship.