A World-Class Magician Now Teaches AI (This is his playbook), w/ Mike Jacobson, aka "Magic Mike"

AI-Curious with Jeff Wilser

In this episode of AI-Curious, host Jeff Wilser sits down with world-class magician, brand strategist, and AI educator Mike Jacobson, also known by his stage name, Magic Mike. Beyond his acclaimed magic performances, Mike has expanded his career into corporate strategy, marketing consulting, and AI education, making him a dynamic force across multiple industries.
During this lively conversation, Jeff and Mike explore the intersection of magic, curiosity, and AI. From Mike’s early “PowerPoint Parties” with friends to AI-infused variety shows at bars in New York, the episode delves into how play and creativity can be powerful tools for demystifying AI. Mike shares his experience leading engaging AI workshops for major corporations, including Meta, where he brings fun and experimentation into the typically serious corporate environment.

Key themes:

•How curiosity can unlock new ways of thinking.

•How AI can be used to inject playfulness into learning, team building, and even corporate workshops.

•Mike’s innovative “It Writes Itself” workshops, where participants create AI-powered presentations, games, and creative projects.

•Practical advice on embracing AI in both work and personal life, with examples from Mike’s unique approach.

Tune in to see how magic and AI can come together to spark creativity, inspire curiosity, and break down the barriers to understanding emerging technologies.

Timestamps:

•[00:00] Intro to Magic Mike and his diverse career

•[05:14] The origin of AI-themed PowerPoint Parties

•[11:59] How AI workshops began with fun and curiosity

•[18:23] What AI can and can’t do for creativity

•[21:24] Transitioning from AI bar shows to corporate workshops

•[29:36] The role of low-stakes creativity in demystifying AI
Magic Mike:
https://hellomagicmike.com/
Mike Jacobson on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobsonmike/
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