Which one do you want to be?
Unlock The
Real SECRETS
There are two kinds of magicians: Those who make money and those who don't.
With Foreword by Jeff McBridePlus Interviews with 12 of the World’s Top Close-Up Magicians
"This book is just dripping with solid, smart advice, the kind only known to those who are out in the trenches getting it done. He holds nothing back!" - Ken Weber, Author "Maximum Entertainment"
Get Booked Consistently
Internationally Famed Contributors
Price with Confidence
Sell Without Being Salesy
Automate Your Business
Pocket Management Like a Pro
Hecklers & Tough Crowds
How to Negotiate
What to Charge
Business Systems You Need
Battle Tested Advice
Foreword by Jeff McBride
A Personal Note From Me
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re in the same place I was at one point.
You love magic. You’ve spent years practicing, learning tricks, chasing that feeling of astonishing people. But somewhere along the way you probably started wondering something most magicians quietly wonder:
Why is it so hard to turn this into real work?
I see you.
I’ve met thousands of magicians over the years who care deeply about the craft but feel stuck when it comes to the business side of things. They know the sleights. They know the tricks. But nobody ever showed them how the job actually works.
I wrote Strolling For Dollars because I lived through that same frustration.
Early on I believed what a lot of magicians believe… that if I just learned more magic, the work would somehow appear. It doesn’t work that way. The real lessons came later, from performing night after night and slowly understanding what actually makes someone bookable, memorable, and rebookable.
Over time those lessons turned into patterns. And eventually those patterns became the ideas in this book.
This isn’t a theory book. It’s everything I wish someone had told me years earlier.
If you read it carefully and apply even a handful of the ideas inside, I am completely confident you will walk away with something valuable. Maybe it’s a new way to approach a group. Maybe it’s a different way of thinking about your set. Maybe it’s the moment where the whole business side of magic finally clicks.
Whatever it is, my sincere hope is that it helps you move forward.
Welcome.
— Jason
Most magicians never make real money performing.
Not because they aren’t talented.
But because they don't have a system.
WARNING:
This book is for magicians who want to level up their magic.
Written by Las Vegas Headliner Jason Bird, a magician who supported a family of five by strolling from table to table for over one million people. This book gives you the exact strategies, tactics, and battle-tested advice that actually works in the real world.
Magic is fun.
But rent is due.
You're good at magic,
but are you making money with it?
The truth is: performing for friends, family, and the occasional gig won't pay the bills.
If you've ever wondered how to turn your love of close-up magic into a real, reliable income - this is the system you've been waiting for.
Strolling for Dollars™ is the straight-shooting, no-fluff guide to becoming a paid magician.
I wrote this because I was tired of watching talented magicians stay broke.
Not "Someday."
Not "If You're Lucky."
NOW.
The system you need to turn your magic into money.
No fluff. No theory. Strolling for Dollars™ is the straight-talking field manual for magicians who want to book consistent, high-paying gigs—and know exactly what to do once they get there.
Whether you're still handing out business cards for tips or already getting paid but stuck at the same rate, this book will show you how to level up your income, your professionalism, and your mindset.
This book hands you the confidence to charge more, pitch professionally, and deliver like a pro. It’s the difference between hoping someone hires you—and knowing they will.
How I Built a Career Performing Close-Up Magic And How You Can Too
A Message from Jason Bird
Today, you stop guessing.
I’ve spent over two decades performing, failing, refining, and rebuilding—from empty gigs and underpriced shows to consistent high-paying clients and sold-out events. Strolling for Dollars™ is the blueprint I wish I had when I was starting out. Inside you'll discover how to:
- Turn casual moments into booked gigs by triggering instant interest and curiosity.
- Control interactions from the first approach to the final pitch with practiced precision.
- Own any environment—whether it’s a cocktail party, corporate mixer, or high-stakes private event.
- Outperform other entertainers by mastering what they never teach: how to turn magic into money.
Too many magicians spend years stuck—performing for free, doubting their worth, burning out before they ever get momentum. This is the turning point. Strolling for Dollars™ helps you reset your mindset, upgrade your craft, and finally take ownership of your career in magic. Stop grinding. Start earning.
Let’s build the career you actually deserve.
"Today you break the cycle of just getting by to making real money with close-up magic. You stop waiting to be discovered—and start deciding what you’re worth. The only thing standing between you and the career you’ve imagined… is a system built by someone who’s already lived it."
This book changes how you work, earn, and perform.
1. Land paid gigs without chasing leads or relying on referrals.
2. Price with confidence and build systems that grow your income.
3. Take control of every room.
Default Headline
"Without a doubt this is the best and most comprehensive book I've read on making a living from strolling magic...It is nothing short of a game-changer for magicians looking to turn their passion into a sustainable career.
What makes this book shine is its balance between artistry and practicality. Bird's voice is encouraging, funny, and refreshingly honest.
Whether you're an aspiring magician hoping to book your first paid gig or a seasoned performer looking to sharpen both your craft and your business, Strolling For Dollars is an indispensable resource. It belongs on every magician's shelf and, more importantly, in every magician's hands. 5/5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"
Paul Romhany, Vanish Magazine
Everything you need to turn your magic into money.
No fluff. No theory. Strolling for Dollars™ is the straight-talking field manual for magicians who want to book consistent, high-paying gigs—and know exactly what to do once they get there.
Whether you're still handing out business cards for tips or already getting paid but stuck at the same rate, this book will show you how to level up your income, your professionalism, and your mindset.
This book hands you the confidence to charge more, pitch professionally, and deliver like a pro. It’s the difference between hoping someone hires you—and knowing they will.
Turn a string of low-paying gigs into a six-figure close-up magic business— landing high-end clients and a calendar that fills itself.
This book is like the Bible for magicians. You can’t just read it once and say you know it all — every time you open it, you’ll find new inspiration and learn something new.
Nikola Barbarić
A beautiful and thorough tome. It will take me many weeks (& months) to truly absorb the extensive good (& supportive) guidance in this book.
Michael Sturm
If you're just starting out, it'll give you the tools to be successful; if you've been doing it a while, you'll feel vindicated when many others have had the same struggles as you, and might learn new solutions to the problem; and if you are thinking about doing it, you'll be starting out miles ahead of where we did way back when.
Joan Dukore
Real Strategies. Real Results.
You’ve got the skill. Now it’s time to get the paycheck. This isn’t just a book—it’s your fast track to paid gigs, power positioning, and professional confidence.
No Hype. No theory. No permission. Strolling for Dollars™ is the playbook from someone who's done it - thousands of times. If you're ready to stop dreaming and start earning, if you're tired of wondering how other magicians "make it" while you're stuck on the sidelines, if you want to turn your deck of cards into real dollars... this book is your first real gig. Let's get to work.
Why It Works
Most magicians focus on tricks. Professionals focus on positioning. Strolling for Dollars™ works because it’s not about adding more moves or tricks ito your act—it’s about learning how to turn your performance into a business that books itself.
Clients aren’t hiring magic. They’re hiring confidence, control, and experience. When you learn how to frame your value, approach cold groups, and close gigs like a pro, you stop hoping to get booked—and start deciding where you want to work.
This book gives you the tools to:
- Walk into any room and own the interaction
- Get booked again before you’ve even finished the set
- Raise your rates without losing clients
- Build systems that keep your calendar full
- Turn one-off gigs into long-term, high-paying relationships
This isn’t about being charming or clever.
It’s about strategic performance—knowing exactly how to manage attention, frame perception, and sell your value without ever feeling like you’re selling.
It’s the difference between being impressive… and being indispensable.
Who It's For
Let’s be clear: Strolling for Dollars™ is not for hobbyists who just want applause.
This is for magicians who want to get paid, who want control over their calendar, their rates, and their reputation. It’s for performers ready to build a business—not just a moment of entertainment.
This is for:
- Close-up magicians who are tired of doing $100 gigs and want to earn four figures for the same act.
- Working performers who know they’re undercharging but don’t have the tools or confidence to level up.
- Hobbyists who are ready to go pro and want a proven system, not trial-and-error guesswork.
- Entertainers who want to stop chasing gigs and start building long-term client relationships that pay consistently.
If you’re done being overlooked, underpaid, or stuck at the same level year after year—this book is your line in the sand.
If you’re content with hoping someone finds you, or you’re happy performing for tips and exposure, this isn’t for you. But if you're ready to take ownership of your career, your income, and your future—welcome.
What's Included
The path ahead will challenge everything you thought you knew about making money with magic. You’re not just learning how to perform—you’re learning how to run a business, own a room, and get paid like a pro. Strolling for Dollars™ gives you the tools to stop guessing and start earning—consistently.
Here’s what you’ll walk away with:
- The Gig Generator: How to consistently find and book high-paying close-up gigs—without waiting to be discovered.
- The Pocket Management Blueprint: Streamline your setup, flow, and reset so you perform smoother, faster, and with total confidence.
- The Approach Framework: Master the moment you walk up to a group—own their attention and control the energy from your first word.
- The Pricing & Pitching Playbook: Know exactly what to charge, how to say it, and how to get clients to say yes—without pushback.
- The Rebooking System: Turn one-time performances into long-term clients and a calendar that fills itself.
- The Professional Performer Toolkit: Contracts, follow-up templates, and client communication that position you as premium, not desperate.
- The Mindset Shift: Rewire the way you think about your value so you never underprice yourself again.
This isn’t about tricks—it’s about transformation. And this book is the business plan your magic career has been missing.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Who I Am
What is Walkaround Magic
Benefits of Walkaround Magic
Part I: The Show
1. Before the Gig
- What’s Your Character?
- What to Wear
- How Much Magic Do You Really Need
- Effect Selection
- To Reset or Not
- Leaving Them With Something
- Building Your Set
- How To Practice
- Deeper vs. Wider
- Performing Angles
- Being Prepared
1. At the Gig
- Pocket Management
- The Approach
- Your 1st Group
- Borrowing Objects
- Performance Space Management
- Handling Difficult Audience Members
- Dealing with Event Staff
- Handling Interruptions
- So, You Got Caught
- Performing for the Client/Booker (Pro Tip #1)
- Leaving Your Group
- Repeating Groups
- Drawing Attention
- Break Schedule
- Handling Tips
2. Other Considerations
- Differences in Performance Settings & Venues
- Performing Outside
- Staying In One Spot
- Receiving Compliments
- Touching Audience Members
- Why You’re Really There
- Kids At a Gig
- Remembering Names
- Working At Large Tables
- Working With Other Magicians
- Scripting
- Handling Client Requests
- Post Show Self Audit
Part II: The Business
1. Getting the Gig
- Marketing Materials
- Business Cards
- Videos
- Website
- Social Media
- Types of Events to Market To
- Getting Clients
- Getting Agents
- Using Strolling as an Add-on (Pro Tip #2)
- What To Charge
2. Handling the Gig
- Dealing with Clients
- Dealing With Agents
- Negotiating Your Fee (Pro Tip #3)
- Contracts
- Deposits
- Getting Testimonials
3. The Nitty-Gritty
- Going Full Time
- Business Structure
- Staying Organized
- Money Management & Taxes
- Liability & Insurance
Part III: Pro Talk: Tales From the Trenches
- Interview #1: Brett Barry
- Interview #2: Paul Draper
- Interview #3: Joan DuKore
- Interview #4: Collin Foster
- Interview #5: Greg Gleason
- Interview #6: Chris Hanna
- Interview #7: Brian Irwin
- Interview #8: Derek Ostovani
- Interview #9: David Penn
- Interview #10: Caroline Ravn
- Interview #11: Shimshi
- Interview #12: Robb Weinstock
Final Thoughts
Hardcover Edition
For serious magicians ready to treat their craft like a career, the hardcover edition of Strolling for Dollars™ delivers more than insight—it delivers presence.
This premium reading experience is designed for those who appreciate the feel of a well-crafted book and the permanence of proven strategy. This edition includes:
- 583 pages of real-world tools, tactics, and systems
- Case wrap binding for long-lasting durability
- White 80gsm Bond paper for smooth, eye-friendly reading
- Gloss-finish hardcover for a bold, professional look
Whether you’re highlighting booking scripts or reviewing gig strategies before a show, the physical edition offers a hands-on connection to the material.
It’s not just a book—it’s your personal field manual for turning walk-around magic into serious income.
A worthy investment for any magician ready to go pro.
New Release Offer
You’re wondering: "Why offer the blueprint for building a six-figure magic business at this price?”
There’s no catch. No filler. No gimmicks.
This is a field-tested system being offered at a fraction of its value—because the right information in the right hands creates unstoppable momentum.
But here’s the truth: opportunity doesn’t wait.
You can grab this system today.
You can grab it tomorrow.
You can even wait a year.
But while you hesitate...
- How many others will raise their rates and start owning their calendar?
- How many gigs will go to someone who *did* invest in themselves?
- How long will you keep performing for applause instead of income?
Yes, this is a book. But it’s also leverage.
And while the inventory won’t run out—the new release price will.
Maybe tomorrow.
Maybe next week.
The only thing certain is this: the price is temporary. The results are not.
Lock in your copy before today — only $99.
Real Stories
from Real Achievers
FAQ
How Is This Different From Other Books On Magic Or Business?
Most books focus on tricks, theory, or vague motivational advice. They’ll give you clever lines, flashy routines, or surface-level business tips—but when it comes time to actually land gigs, set your rates, or rebook a client, you’re on your own.
Strolling for Dollars™ is built differently.
This book isn’t just about why the business of magic matters—it’s about how to run it like a pro. There’s no academic fluff, no filler, no guesswork. Every page is packed with real-world strategies Jason has used to turn walk-around magic into a full-time career. You'll learn how to price with confidence, approach cold groups, control the room, and build a repeatable system that brings gigs to you.
You don’t need to be famous. You don’t need an agent. You don’t even need a website.
You just need a process that works. That’s what this book delivers—step by step.
How Soon Can I Expect To See Results?
That depends on how fast you move—but many magicians have booked paid gigs within days of applying what’s in this book.
Strolling for Dollars™ isn’t theory—it’s a field manual. The moment you start using the pitch scripts, booking strategies, and pocket management layouts, you’ll start seeing changes. Whether that means finally landing your first paid gig, doubling your rate, or getting rebooked on the spot—it happens fast when you take action.
Read it once. Apply it twice. Get paid for it for the rest of your career.
Is This Just Another Book of Ideas—Or Something I Can Actually Use?
When you search for resources on building a career in magic, you’ll find endless books, courses, and voices offering “insider tips” or generic business advice. But here’s what they don’t tell you: most of those methods are outdated, overly theoretical, or flat-out useless in real-world performance environments.
Strolling for Dollars™ is different.
1. Built for Booking, Not Bragging
Most books on magic focus on new tricks or motivational hype. Others dive into business theory that sounds smart but fails when you're actually trying to land a gig, negotiate a fee, or rebook a client.
This book skips the fluff and gets straight to the point: how to turn your close-up magic into a repeatable, income-generating business. You’ll get proven strategies that have been used for over two decades on stages, in restaurants, at corporate events, and everywhere in between.
You won’t need a marketing degree. You just need a system that works.
2. Designed to Be Used, Not Just Read
Plenty of “business for magicians” resources will tell you why marketing matters or what makes a brand—but leave you clueless on how to actually land better gigs.
Strolling for Dollars doesn’t just explain concepts—it gives you booking scripts, pricing formulas, pocket management layouts, and rebooking strategies you can use immediately. This is the kind of step-by-step framework that lets you approach a group cold and walk away with a contract.
3. Real Confidence Over Cheap Tricks
This isn’t about manipulating people into hiring you. It’s about positioning yourself as someone worth hiring—again and again.
You’ll learn how to confidently pitch yourself, hold your pricing line, and present your act as a premium experience without ever sounding desperate or pushy. This isn’t salesmanship—it’s professional presence with purpose.
4. A Business Plan in Disguise
Some books assume you already know how to write proposals, negotiate rates, or build a funnel. This one doesn’t. It’s written for magicians who want to stop guessing and start earning—whether you're brand new or already performing.
Everything is designed for simplicity and speed. No complex jargon. No 30-step funnels. Just what you need to get booked, get rebooked, and grow your income.
5. Made for the Modern Gig Economy
Clients today are overwhelmed, distracted, and constantly marketed to. The old ways of getting noticed—long pitches, complicated press kits, begging for referrals—don’t work anymore.
Strolling for Dollars™ teaches you how to grab attention quickly, deliver value with confidence, and leave a lasting impression that turns into business. You’ll learn how to perform like a pro and think like one.
Do I Need A Background In Marketing Or Business?
Nope. This book is written for magicians—not marketers. Everything is broken down into simple, clear steps you can follow without needing a business degree or a background in sales.
I'm Not Naturally Charismatic. Will This Still Work For Me?
Absolutely. This book isn’t about being the loudest or flashiest—it’s about knowing how to approach people, present yourself confidently, and deliver value. Charisma can be developed, and this book helps you do just that.
Do I Need to Be an Experienced Magician to Use This?
No. Whether you're just starting or already performing part-time, this book meets you where you are. Strolling for Dollars gives you the systems, scripts, and strategies to grow your magic into a professional career—no fame, website, or stage time required.
Will This Help If I’m Already Performing but Not Getting Rebooked?
Yes—and fast. If you’re doing decent shows but still chasing gigs, this book shows you how to flip the dynamic. You’ll learn how to position yourself for rebookings, referrals, and recurring clients so your calendar fills itself.
What If I Don’t Want to Hustle Social Media or Build a Brand?
Good news: you don’t have to. This system is built for real-world, in-person connection. It’s about how you approach groups, pitch yourself, and close gigs live—not how many followers you have. No hashtags required.
Does This Only Work in Big Cities or High-End Venues?
Not at all. These principles work anywhere people gather and entertainment is valued—from weddings and corporate events to private parties and restaurants. Magic is universal. This book shows you how to monetize it locally or at scale.
Can This Help Me Go Full-Time with Magic?
Yes—but in a no-nonsense, applied way. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset from performer to professional, how to handle rejection, and how to confidently price and pitch your services. No academic jargon—just what works.
Can I Use This Outside Of Gigs—In Other Parts Of Life Or Business?
Definitely. The communication and confidence strategies in this book apply to business, networking, and even everyday conversations. Once you understand how to present and pitch yourself, everything changes.
Will This Actually Help Me To Make Real Money?
Yes. That’s the whole point. This book shows you how to get booked, raise your rates, build repeat business, and finally treat your magic like a real, revenue-generating career.
What Exactly Will I Learn That I Can’t Find on YouTube?
Everything YouTube won’t show you: how to negotiate your rate, handle hecklers, upsell clients, manage your set, prep your pockets, and structure a business that pays. This is behind-the-curtain strategy from someone who's lived it.
Do I Need to Learn New Tricks or Change My Act for This to Work?
Nope. You can use the tricks you already love. This book helps you present them with more confidence, set the right tone, and build a structure around your set that commands respect—and bigger paychecks.
Does This Include Any Psychology Or Mindset Training?
Yes—but in a no-nonsense, applied way. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset from performer to professional, how to handle rejection, and how to confidently price and pitch your services. No academic jargon—just what works.
Is This Book About Marketing, Performing, or Both?
Both—but only the parts that move the needle. You’ll learn how to make your act more bookable, your pitch more professional, and your pricing more profitable. It’s the missing link between magic and money.
What If I’ve Read Business Books for Magicians Before—How Is This Different?
Most books talk about making money with magic. Strolling For Dollars shows you exactly how to do it—step-by-step, from gigs to gear to getting paid. It’s packed with real-world tactics, battle-tested scripts, and hard-won lessons from pros who actually make their living strolling. Just the roadmap you’ve been missing.
Can I Use These Strategies for Private Parties, Weddings, or Corporate Gigs?
Absolutely. Strolling for Dollars is designed for versatility. Whether you’re working a wedding, trade show, VIP suite, or cocktail party, the systems inside adapt to the setting—and help you thrive in any room.
Everything you need to turn your magic into money.
Aren't you tired of struggling? Become a Paid Pro. You’ve got the talent. But talent alone doesn’t get remembered—or paid. You might get some gigs, but you’re not booked out either. You’re somewhere in the middle—applauded, maybe… then forgotten. Another nameless magician moving from group to group, hoping tonight leads to something more. No follow-up. No rebooking. No momentum.
Just another night of being “amazing” without ever being valued.
Breaking out of that loop takes more than tricks. It takes systems, strategy, and the mindset to stop begging for gigs—and start owning your business.
That’s what Strolling for Dollars™ gives you. A blueprint for building a real, sustainable career performing close-up magic. While others wait for "exposure", you’ll be cashing checks.
This isn’t theory. This is the playbook from someone who’s done it — thousands of times.
If you’re ready to stop dreaming and start earning, If you’re tired of wondering how other magicians “make it” while you’re stuck on the sidelines, If you want to turn your deck of cards into real dollars...
This book is your first real gig.
Let’s get to work.
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